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Discover the Ph.D. Program at Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences

Ph.d. program, ph.d. program overview.

At Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, you’ll discover a unique research training environment of academic inquiry and scientific discovery, combined with exceptional intellectual and technological resources designed to help you achieve your highest scientific career goals.

Through the Ph.D. program, you’ll acquire a broad expertise in biomedical science with the opportunity to go deeper into your primary area of research interest.

year average time to degree

Best graduate school rankings

a top school for biological sciences as ranked by U.S. News & World Report

Guaranteed 5-year internal fellowship

includes full tuition, stipend, and benefits

Whether you’re preparing for graduate school or applying now, the Mayo Clinic experience for biomedical science Ph.D. students is different.

Program highlights:

• Research training by leading investigators in fields ranging from molecules to populations, all in the context of exceptional health care.
• Embedded within a top academic medical center, you’ll have access to clinical data from more than 6 million patient histories.
• A Career Development Internship program where senior students experience networking opportunities in career settings different from those of their research mentors.
• A national destination for research training of students from backgrounds underrepresented in science. Mayo’s NIH-funded IMSD is more than two decades old, and Mayo invented the NIH PREP concept.
• Join about 250 students who have access to 300+ faculty members in small class sizes.
• 87% of graduates since 1989 are employed in academia or industry.
• Three campuses in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona with diverse research opportunities.
• Every student is awarded a fellowship for five years that fully covers tuition.
• Ph.D. students receive a stipend and health benefits.

See yourself here

Hear from students and faculty to get an idea of what it's like to learn here, live here, and be a Ph.D. student at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science.

"I can be the scientist I want to be"

Choosing your area of specialization

You'll choose from one of eight  biomedical science specialty tracks within our Ph.D. Program. Track choice is indicated during the application process and confirmed after admission. But you'll be able to do research and learn in any Mayo laboratory that interests you, even if it's not within your track.

Perspectives on our Ph.D. Program

"Collaboration is massive here"

Collaborative research and learning environment

The hallmark of research at Mayo Clinic is the highly collaborative interaction that occurs between investigators in basic science and clinical areas. While each investigator has a competitively funded independent lab, collaboration with graduate students and staff across the institution is common. As a Ph.D. student, you’re free to select any Mayo mentor, regardless of which track you choose.

"Allowed me to build my own team"

Teaching opportunities

Tutoring and teaching opportunities are available and optional for our Ph.D. students. If you’re interested in developing these skills, serving as a tutor or a teaching assistant can help cement the knowledge you gain from your coursework.

Application window

Apply between Sept. 1 and Dec. 4 for the following academic year.

To get in touch with the Ph.D. Program, fill out the form on the Contact Us page .

Ph.D. and master's degree program catalog (2023-2024), rev. 5-11-23

Virtual visits

Explore our virtual visit options or sign up for a video chat to get a personalized look at our program.

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PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS)

For contact information, please visit the Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS)  website .

Boston University’s Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS) is an “umbrella” program with 9 participating departments/programs, all housed within Graduate Medical Sciences at the Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine.  PiBS provides rigorous training toward a PhD degree, focusing on coursework and research, as well as professional development for career advancement. In addition to required and elective coursework, first-year students explore research opportunities by participating in three laboratory rotations to help determine the direction of their PhD research.

Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes for the doctoral programs in Graduate Medical Sciences at the  Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine are designed to train scholars to be leaders in their respective fields of biomedical research. Trainees become fluent in their areas of specialization, as well as develop competencies that provide the foundation for lifelong learning and practice in their chosen field. Trainees will demonstrate and apply the professional and scientific skills necessary to benefit society. They will:

• Generate an original body of work in the biomedical sciences that reflects critical thinking and independent thought.
• Demonstrate competencies in advanced research skills and critical thinking.
• Develop the ability to communicate with specialists and nonexperts through writing and oral communication within their chosen field of expertise.
• Demonstrate a commitment to professional development and continued learning in their chosen field.

Participating programs/departments include:

• Biochemistry & Cell Biology
• Genetics & Genomics
• Molecular & Translational Medicine
• Nutrition & Metabolism
• Orofacial & Skeletal Biology
• Pathology & Laboratory Medicine  (including Immunology Training Program )
• Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics
• Virology, Immunology & Microbiology (including Immunology Training Program )

PiBS faculty’s broad research interests include:

• Bioinformatics
• Cancer biology, cancer immunology, and tumor microenvironment
• Cardiovascular and pulmonary disease
• Cell dynamics and architecture
• Cell signaling and gene regulation
• Computational biology
• Development and regenerative biology and stem cells
• Genetics and gene regulation
• Hematologic disorders
• Host-pathogen interactions and infectious disease
• Inflammation and inflammatory diseases
• Lymphatic system physiology and disease
• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Nutrition, obesity, diabetes, and related metabolic diseases
• Oral, craniofacial, and skeletal biology
• Pathology and laboratory medicine
• Physiology and pathophysiology
• Proteomics and glycomics
• Structural biology and molecular biophysics
• Vaccine development

Please visit the PiBS website for links to the participating programs’ websites and additional information regarding individual faculty research interests.

In the first year, PhD students take the Foundations in Biomedical Sciences (FBS)  core curriculum, professional skills development courses, as well as elective courses focused on area-specific interests. In addition, students experience three laboratory rotations and attend research seminars. Students work closely with a faculty advisor to develop a plan tailored to serve specific research and professional goals. After selection of a laboratory, students join the program/department with which the mentor is affiliated and continue advanced studies toward candidacy. Once a student chooses a dissertation laboratory and a department/program of study, additional coursework is dictated by the requirements of that department/program. All departments/programs require that the student submit, present, and defend a dissertation based on original laboratory research performed under the direction of a member of the PiBS faculty.

PiBS First-Year Curriculum

Core/required courses (18–20 credits total).

• GMS FC 708 Professional Development Skills (2 cr)
• GMS FC 711 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences: Protein Structure, Catalysis and Interaction (3 cr)
• GMS FC 712 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences: Structure and Function of the Genome (3 cr)
• GMS FC 713 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences: Architecture and Dynamics of the Cell (3 cr)
• GMS FC 714 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences: Mechanisms of Cell Communication (3 cr)
• GMS FC 764 Professional Skills (2 cr)
• Statistics class (2–4 cr)

Possible Elective Courses (4–8 Credits Total)

• GMS BI 777 Techniques in Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology (2 cr)
• GMS BY 762 Foundations of Biophysics and Structural Biology I (2 cr)
• GMS BY 763 Foundations of Biophysics and Structural Biology II (2 cr)
• GMS BY 776 Macromolecular Assemblies I (2 cr)
• GMS BY 777 Macromolecular Assemblies II (2 cr)
• GMS FC 706 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences: Molecular Metabolism (2 cr)
• GMS FC 709 Research Design and Statistical Methods for Biomedical Sciences (3 cr)
• GMS FC 715 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences: Translational Genetics and Genomics (3 cr)
• GMS FC 717 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences: Physiology of Specialized Cells (3 cr)
• GMS FC 762 Critical Thinking in Biomedical Research (2 cr)
• GMS GE 701 Principles of Genetics and Genomics (4 cr)
• GMS MI 701 Concepts in Virology (2 cr)
• GMS MI 713 Comprehensive Immunology (4 cr)
• GMS MI 715 Immunological Basis of Disease (2 cr)
• GMS MM 703 Cancer Biology and Genetics (2 cr)
• GMS MM 710 Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (2 cr)
• GMS MM 725 Biology of the Lung and Pulmonary Disease (2 cr)
• GMS NU 755 Molecular, Biochemical, and Physiological Basis of Nutrition I: Energy Balance and Micronutrients (4 cr)
• GMS NU 756 Molecular, Biochemical, and Physiological Basis of Nutrition II: Macronutrients (4 cr)
• GMS NU 757 Molecular, Biochemical, and Physiologic Bases of Nutrition: Regulation of Energy Balance (2 cr)
• GMS OB 763 Basic Processes in Oral Biology I (2 cr)
• GMS OB 764 Basic Processes in Oral Biology II (2 cr)
• GMS PA 700 Basic and Experimental Pathology (4 cr)
• GMS PA 710 Principles of Basic and Applied Pathology (2 cr)
• GMS PA 801 S Special Topics in Pathology
• GMS PA 910 Human Biospecimens in Research (2 cr)
• GMS PA 932 Histopathology (4 cr)

Lab Rotations, 4 credits total

Each student completes three laboratory rotations in the first year of the program.

Professional Development Opportunities

In addition to the biomedical and professional skills coursework in the first year, we offer our graduate students a host of professional development opportunities ( BU’s BEST  and PhD Professional Development Opportunities ). These include workshops, panel discussions, site visits, and internships to enable students to consider and prepare for careers in a variety of sectors, including research and nonresearch careers in academia, industry, government, communications, law/compliance, or wherever they may choose to work.

Financial Support

PhD students in good standing are provided with a financial package that covers the cost of tuition, health insurance, and fees, as well as a living stipend.

Admission Requirements

PiBS applicants should have a strong undergraduate academic record as well as research experience. Students matriculate during the fall semester. Please visit the  PiBS website for more information regarding the application and selection processes.

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Biomedical PhD Programs

The following programs are administered in the School of Medicine by the  Office of Biomedical Graduate Education  (OBGE).

Each PhD program has its own course work and preliminary exam requirements, but all programs follow a general academic pattern. The first year is generally devoted to course work and laboratory rotations. At the beginning of the second year, students enter their thesis labs, finish course work and assemble dissertation committees. At the end of the second year, students complete their preliminary exam, which is generally based on their proposed dissertation project. After passing the preliminary exam, the student is fully devoted to research. Some programs have a teaching requirement but all students can serve as teaching assistants with the approval of their dissertation mentor.

Learn more about specific departmental requirements, offerings, leadership, and faculty on each program’s webpage.

• Biochemistry
• Biostatistics
• Cell & Molecular Biology *
• Cell Biology  (non-admitting)
• Cognitive Neuroscience † *
• Computational Biology & Bioinformatics *
• Developmental & Stem Cell Biology † *
• Integrated Toxicology & Environmental Health Program † *
• Medical Physics
• Medical Scientist Training Program - MD/PhD
• Molecular Cancer Biology
• Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
• Neurobiology
• Pharmacology
• Population Health Sciences
• University Program in Genetics & Genomics *

† Admitting program

Admitting interdisciplinary programs offer students an opportunity to develop foundational skills with interdisciplinary faculty from the admitting program in the first two years of study. Students then affiliate into a degree-granting program to join a lab, continue study, and earn the Ph.D. degree.

*Interdisciplinary program

Interdisciplinary programs offer training from faculty from across Duke departments who bring together valuable field knowledge from a variety of academic perspectives. Some interdisciplinary programs are admitting programs and constitute only the first two years of training; others are degree-granting and see students through the entire PhD degree. Admitting programs are denoted with a †.

PhD in Biomedical Science

New section.

Biomedical scientists bridge the gap between the basic sciences and medicine. The PhD degree is the gateway to a career in biomedical research.

Information about what one can do with a PhD in Biomedical Science.

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Helpful tools for those applying to medical PhD programs.

Upcoming short presentations will describe features of PhD training, alumni careers, and detailed logistics of the application process.

Learn about PhD Programs from program leaders.

Graduate schools in the biomedical sciences will generally provide a comprehensive funding package to their students.

PhD Programs by School

List of Postdoctoral Programs by School

Postbaccalaureate programs begin after an undergraduate degree and are designed to support the transition to professional school.

PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences

Opportunity Starts Here.

The ppbs difference.

Innovative interdisciplinary curriculum, student-focused mentoring and professional development, and cutting-edge research facilities — these are just a few of the PPBS attributes that ensure our students are prepared to be leaders and agents of change in the many career paths that biomedicine has to offer.

Experience a Multidisciplinary Way of Thinking

See how our interdisciplinary approach can prepare you for the future of science and medicine.

Put Your Passion Into Practice

Our well-structured interdisciplinary curriculum gives you the opportunity to participate in a spectrum of state-of-the-art research with accomplished UB faculty.

Individual Approach, Individual Attention

Graduate students benefit from a training structure where answers to scientific questions are provided by faculty from a variety of disciplines and scientific fields. 

Mohamed Sharif Doctoral candidate in biochemistry

Steven A. Lewis Doctoral student in computational cell biology, anatomy and pathology

Katherine Sortino Doctoral student in microbiology and immunology

How It Works

The PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences (PPBS) allows you to experience different fields of research and laboratories before selecting a specialty area.

This fully-funded program provides an entry portal and a common first-year curriculum, equipping you with core knowledge and concepts to support your pursuit of a doctoral degree in one of our several participating disciplines.

Program options

• Biochemistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Biomedical Informatics
• Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics
• Microbiology and Immunology
• Neuroscience
• Oral Biology
• Pathology and Anatomical Sciences
• Pharmacology and Toxicology
• Physiology and Biophysics
• Structural Biology

Want to Apply Directly?

If you have a strong background or interest in one of these programs, you can apply directly through the department.

All programs except Medical Physics also participate in the PPBS. If you want to explore different disciplines (including these options) before selecting one for your doctoral research, apply through the PPBS.

*Not available through PPBS

Research Areas

With 17  areas of research , we’re sure you’ll discover your next home with us.

Taylor Glausen Doctoral student in microbiology and immunology

Briana Santo Doctoral student in computational cell biology, anatomy and pathology

Essi Tchalla Doctoral student in microbiology and immunology

E-cigarette use is rising among pregnant adolescents, according to a UB study published Dec. 13 in JAMA Network Open.

A number of medical students are gaining valuable clinical research experience studying autonomic disorders under the direction of Svetlana Blitshteyn, MD, a clinical associate professor of neurology at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

QAS.AI awarded $1 million National Science Foundation grant for clinical evaluation in Buffalo and Florida.

The study aims to curb hypertension and mental health issues in postpartum women, particularly those from marginalized populations.

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PIBS offers a gateway to 14 PhD programs, designed to provide students maximum flexibility during the first year of graduate studies. Our team of support staff, program directors and academic advisors will help you pursue a career path of your choosing.

As an interdisciplinary gateway, PIBS gives you access to 14 graduate programs through one application. Students rotate in labs of their choice throughout the first year to discover an ideal mentor and project match. For some, this exploration even leads to a completely different research area than originally planned!

Explore the courses that provide you with an invaluable base to begin building a successful career.

Learn about how graduate students are supported financially throughout the duration of their studies.

Discover the abundance of research resources available at our top-ranked academic medical school.

Find out how the Career & Professional Development team supports you throughout your academic journey.

PIBS gives you access to 14 PhD programs through one application.

Learners in our program have an intersectionality of many identities, perspectives and experiences. We embrace the diversity within our community and are committed to continuously enriching a more diverse, equitable and inclusive legacy . Read the  University’s 2024 statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion .

OGPS is the support office for all doctoral, masters and post-baccalaureate students, as well as the U-M Medical School postdoctoral fellows.

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PhDs in Biomedical Sciences

The Coordinated Doctoral Programs in Biomedical Sciences are part of the medical school and the Columbia University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. The programs are located at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center campus. PhD students have access to more than 250 training faculty when selecting their research direction, ensuring that each student receives optimal training and research experience. We also provide a supportive environment which goes beyond academics. 

Programs include:

• Biomedical Informatics
• Genetics and Development
• Integrated Program in Cellular, Molecular, and Biomedical Studies
• Microbiology and Immunology
• Neurobiology and Behavior
• Nutritional and Metabolic Biology
• Pathology and Molecular Medicine
• Pharmacology and Molecular Signaling
• Physiology and Cellular Biophysics

COVID-19: Vaccine Program | Testing |  Visitor Guidelines | Information for Employees MONKEYPOX: UConn Health is NOT currently offering the monkeypox vaccine. Please visit the CT DPH website for more information or contact your health provider directly. -->

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Ph.d. in biomedical science.

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Introduction

The goal of the Ph.D. graduate program in Biomedical Science at UConn Health is to educate individuals dedicated to pursuing careers as scientists and scholars in biological and biomedical science in a wide variety of settings including academia, the private sector and in government service. To achieve this goal an academic environment is maintained which fosters creative thinking and supports programs leading to excellence in scholarship, research and teaching. The program is dedicated to quality education tailored to the needs of the individual student.

UConn Health is the health sciences campus of the University. It is home to a division of the Graduate School, the School of Medicine and the School of Dental Medicine. UConn Health offers a wide range of educational and research opportunities with talented faculty pursuing exciting and innovative research on contemporary problems in biology and medicine.

Program Description

1st year students enter the Biomedical Science Ph.D. program register for MEDS 6503: First Year Graduate Experience in Biomedical Science. This new year-long course encompasses the three required laboratory rotations as well as an initial exploration block during which students can learn more about all seven Areas of Concentration (AoCs):

allowing them time to consider and select rotation labs.  This course gives students the opportunity to become familiar with ongoing research at UConn Health and obtain a sound academic foundation for future study. Many laboratories representing diverse scientific areas are available for graduate student research rotations and doctoral dissertation research. After the first year, each student selects a thesis laboratory and affiliates with one of the AoCs to develop competency in their desired scientific discipline.

Prospective Students

Prospective students can find more information on our program here: https://health.uconn.edu/graduate-school/prospective/  

Questions about admissions? Please contact  [email protected]

*Important Update* The GRE General Exam is no longer required NOR considered for admission to the Biomedical Science Ph.D. program.

The application for Fall 2024 will open in mid-September. The deadline for application, application fee, and supporting materials for Fall 2024 is December 1, 2023 . For detailed application information, please visit our Admissions Process page .

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The Graduate School

Biomedical sciences.

From exploration to expertise, the  Biomedical Sciences PhD Program  at Augusta University and the Medical College of Georgia (MCG) fosters a graduate experience like no other in the biomedical sciences.

Here, world-class faculty and staff invest time, attention, and resources into their graduate students who benefit from MCG's rigorous academic programs, groundbreaking research opportunities, and a caring community that is bonded by camaraderie and purpose.

The Biomedical Sciences PhD program is highly collaborative and interdisciplinary, with expertise in the leading causes of death and disability in the United States and powerful predictors of the future of biomedical research. We have a long and rich history of providing excellence in graduate student research training, from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and immunology to neurodegenerative diseases and sensory disorders. Having focused areas of research strength in cardiometabolic disease, cancer biology and immunology, and neuroscience/sensory systems allows students to explore their area of interest as it relates to these areas of research to develop new and innovative research insights.

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Biomedical Sciences PhD Programs

From your acceptance letter to the moment you accept your diploma (and beyond), our Biomedical Sciences PhD programs open doors to groundbreaking research and outstanding education—and, to an embracing community, meaningful connections, and wide-ranging professional opportunities.

Our Biomedical Science Program is an umbrella program that encompasses a wide range of exciting research pathways designed to train the next generation of research scientists. Students can select from one of nine highly-collaborative and interdisciplinary majors.

We invite you to further explore the exciting opportunities awaiting graduate students in each of these nine majors.

Biochemistry & Cancer Biology

Cellular biology & anatomy, genomic medicine, molecular medicine soon to be molecular oncology and immunology.

Neuroscience

Oral Biology & Maxillofacial Pathology

Pharmacology

Vascular Biology

Experience Learning

Student Spotlights

AU has research in lots of areas that gives incoming students the ability to choose their path according their interest. Most enjoyable is the diversity of people working here and the opportunity to connect with them.

Mahrima Parvin

Biochemistry and Cancer Biology

The faculty and student interactions are all so enjoyable. We are able to be comfortable and confident in a professional setting while still being able to make mistakes, ask questions, have fun, learn, and grow as scientists.

Julie Vincent

Augusta University is a very collaborative environment, and I know that I can easily ask any professor or fellow student a question and get a positive response. Additionally, my work gives me the opportunity to feel like I can make a real positive change in the world.

Noah Watson

Ready to Apply?

From world-class to world-changing, our Biomedical Sciences PhD program can help you reach your career goals.  Start now by reviewing the admissions criteria and submitting your application.  Applying is easy and our admissions team is ready to help and answer questions throughout the application process . You can email us at [email protected] or call us at 706-721-9516.

Graduate Research Assistantships for Biomedical Sciences  PhD students include an annual stipend, reduced tuition rate, and a choice of two health insurance plans.

Want to Learn More?

We invite you to join us at one of our virtual information sessions or visit us at one of our recruitment events.  If you want to visit Augusta University, schedule a virtual information session, or have us come to your campus, just email us to get started. 

Student Experience

From the core curriculum to your final defense, we want students to thrive at Augusta University. Here, you are part of a community of students who are hard-working, talented, and ready to make a difference. With the support of our faculty, access to an abundance of resources, regular professional development workshops, and the camaraderie of fellow students, graduate students at AU, you are set-up to succeed!

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The Graduate School at Augusta University facilitates ground-breaking research and ensures outstanding education. We create an environment that embraces and empowers the next generation of scholars and investigators, supports faculty and staff, and fosters meaningful relationships and collaborations among students across our programs and colleges.

• PhD Biomedical Sciences
• Graduate Programs

The Biomedical Sciences doctoral training program at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine is an interdisciplinary program enriched with graduate faculty with diverse investigative biomedical research interest and highly qualified students who are pursuing top education and cutting edge discoveries.

The Graduate Faculty includes more than 100 reputable scientists with established achievements in diverse aspects of biomedical sciences including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular sciences, infectious disease, neuroscience, cancer, nanoscience, biomedical engineering, drug discovery, and much more https://med.ucf.edu/biomed/graduate-programs/graduate-faculty/ .

Our students are recruited from outstanding programs from all over the United States and over 18 other countries. They are supported by competitive scholarships and prestigious fellowships. Our students receive top tier education, rigorous training in basic and clinical research, outstanding mentoring, and long-lived professional development. They become competent in research and policies while conducting experiments involving the use of human subjects and animals. They learn, retain, and apply fundamental knowledge in biomedical sciences. They graduate from the program as scientists with excellent education and training and focused career goals. Many go on as postdoctoral fellows, academics, scientists, and researchers.  https://med.ucf.edu/biomed/graduate-programs/wherearetheynow/

The curriculum of the Biomedical PhD program is continuously adapting to rapid changes in technology, science, ongoing research, public health, and evolving genetic discoveries. All students must successfully complete core courses with a focus on fundamental knowledge in molecular and cell biology, microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, neuroscience, bioinformatics, stem cell, metabolic, cancer, drug discovery and delivery, and more.

All students are required  to complete the online Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI), Responsible Conduct of Research training and four face-to-face ethics/RCR workshops coordinated by the UCF College of Graduate Studies and the Office of Research and Commercialization. First year students prior to their laboratory rotation are required to complete laboratory safety, radiation safety, biosafety, and blood borne pathogen courses. Students are also required to attend Pathways to Success seminar series including Academic Integrity, Graduate Grantsmanship, Graduate Teaching, Personal Development, Professional Development, and Research.

The program administrators, faculty and staff are dedicated to educate, train, and mentor tomorrows scientists and future colleagues and collaborators. Our Graduate Student Association plays the big brother/sister role to complements the role of our faculty to help our students succeed.

Program Curriculum

The Biomedical Sciences PhD program requires a minimum of 72 credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree, including a minimum total of 27 hours of formal course work exclusive of independent study that is required.

The program requires 23 credit hours of core courses, 12 credit hours of elective courses, and a minimum of 15 credit hours of dissertation research. The remaining 22 credit hours may consist of additional electives, doctoral research and/or dissertation research. Students with an earned master’s degree may request that up to 30 credit hours of previous course work be waived.

New students will take a two-semester introductory course, participate in laboratory rotations to identify a research area of interest, and take a sequence of required seminars.

Total Credit Hours Required

72 credit hours minimum beyond the Bachelor’s Degree.

Qualifying Examinations

• Cumulative examinations
• Candidacy Examination
• Dissertation Defense

Program Research

As one of the largest universities in the United States, UCF’s world-renowned faculty, international curricula, and research opportunities provide the perfect setting for an exceptional academic experience. Our Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. program’s burgeoning biomedical research promises to generate intellectual property that will spark a biomedical industry in the Central Florida region. Burnett school scientists focus their research on cancer, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and infectious diseases. Funded research projects include:

• Neurodegenerative diseases
• Tumor invasion and metastasis
• Gene chip technology
• Stem cell therapies
• Molecular biological and biophysical techniques
• Infectious diseases

Program Strengths

Our program offers students an opportunity to study in-depth the molecular processes found in both normal and pathological disease states, disease intervention, and gene therapy. The creative environment within the program provides students close contact with a faculty composed of internationally recognized biomedical scientists.

Partnerships

Active partnerships formed with other units at UCF – such as the College of Optics and Photonics, the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute at Lake Nona and the NanoScience Technology Center – will facilitate interdisciplinary research and education programs in the innovative applications of photonics, bioinformatics, and nanoscience to biomedical problems.

Career Opportunities:

• Tenured Professor
• Grant Administration
• Science Policy
• Pharmaceutical Research
• Biotechnology Research
• Management Consulting
• Medical Communications
• Science Journalism and Writing
• Science Publishing

Points of Pride

The Burnett Biomedical Sciences building at the UCF Health Sciences Lake Nona Campus opened in Fall 2009. This 198,000 square foot building is five stories of state-of-the-art equipment and has space for our research teams headed by 19 faculty members. It also houses a major transgenic animal facility and three Biosafety level 3 laboratories.

Application Requirements

For information on general UCF graduate admissions requirements that apply to all prospective students, please visit the Admissions section of the Graduate Catalog. Applicants must apply online. All requested materials must be submitted by the established deadline.

Applicants entering the program with regular status are expected to have completed course work required for a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, molecular biology or microbiology.

In addition to the general UCF graduate application requirements, applicants to this program must provide:

• One official transcript (in a sealed envelope) from each college/university attended
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of research interest and purpose, including a summary of relevant work or research experience
• A personal or telephone interview

Admission is based on an overall assessment of the qualifications submitted and the interview. All admissions to graduate status are competitive and based on availability of faculty for sponsoring research.

PhD Financials

Graduate students may receive financial assistance through fellowships, assistantships, tuition support, or loans. Financial awards are based on academic merit to highly qualified students.

• Tuition fully covered
• Stipend: $27,000-$34,000/year
• Health Insurance covered

View the Chatlos Doctoral Fellowship in Biomedical Sciences Opportunity

For more information, please visit the graduate catalog here

View the program handbook here.

Emory University Laney Graduate School Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences

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Recent NIH rankings show that Emory is 19th in the nation for NIH grants. In 2005 Emory had a total of over $351 million in sponsored research funding. Emory University is one of the major biological research and medical referral centers in the Southeast. The state-of-the-art instrumentation that is needed to study virtually any aspect of modern biology and medicine is found on the Emory campus.

Excellent research facilities are available, including the Biomolecular Computing Resource Facility , Transgenic Mouse Facility , Microchemical Facility , and the Vaccine Research Center . Additional facilities for high-resolution structural biology, proteomics, microscopy, DNA Array Analysis, and the production of monoclonal antibodies are also housed on the Emory campus.

Emory University is unique among research institutions in that both the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Cancer Society are adjacent to campus. This gives students a unique opportunity to work with CDC and ACS researchers who are affiliated with one of our Programs.

Research Leadership

Gilead Sciences and Royalty Pharma have announced an agreement with Emory University to purchase the royalty interests for Emtricitabine, a leading anti-HIV/AIDS compound. The companies will make a one-time cash payment of $525 million to Emory University. Dr. Dennis Liotta , one of the three researchers credited with discovering Emtricitabine, is a Division faculty member in the Molecular and Systems Pharmacology Program. This is believed to be the largest single sale of intellectual property in the history of American higher education ( Emory Press Release ).

Dr. Kenneth Bernstein received the 2005 Novartis Award from the American Heart Association and Dr. David Harrison received the 2004 Novartis Award.  It is an extraordinary accomplishment for Emory faculty to have received this award for two years in a row, and it is an honor that has never been duplicated by any other academic center.

Research Funding

From 1996 to 2000 Emory's School of Medicine achieved the fastest rate of growth in terms of National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funding (19% per year) of any school in the nation. Emory has risen in rank from 31st in the country to 19th (fiscal year 2005) among schools that receive NIH research dollars.  Emory has continued its rapid growth in research funding for a total of over $346 million in sponsored research funding for 2005.  Of the specific departments for which NIH provides data, several Division departments rank very highly:  Microbiology/Immunology ranks 7th in the nation, Neurology ranks 11th, Pharmacology ranks 11th, Physiology ranks 23rd, Genetics ranks 22nd and Cell Biology ranks 25th.

The Division has nearly 400 students in various stages of graduate training.  Last year our students were primary or co-authors on more than 200 research papers or abstracts.  In addition to providing students with the skills essential for their growth as research scientists, the Division faculty also provide support and guidance in their roles as mentors.  Consequently, our graduate students are very satisfied with their graduate programs.  The National Association of Graduate-Professional Students (NAGPS) conducted a national survey of graduate students to assess their satisfaction with their Programs, and four of the Division Programs were ranked (a minimum of ten responses was required to be ranked).

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Key searches, phd programs, phd programs in biomedical and biological sciences (pibbs).

The goal of PIBBS is to recruit top caliber Ph.D. students in the biomedical and biological sciences to USC and to guide them in the identification of a mentor, lab, and research project that will provide rigorous scientific training, an outstanding Ph.D. thesis, and a strong foundation for a variety of science-related careers. The following interdisciplinary Ph.D. programs are part of PIBBS.

Cancer Biology & Genomics (CBG)

CBG capitalizes on our Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center , one of the oldest National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States. A Comprehensive Cancer Center designation requires that clinical treatment of patients and scientific research are carried out side by side. The Norris has strength in all areas of cancer research, including clinical and basic research and epidemiology.

Development, Stem Cells, & Regenerative Medicine (DSR)

DSR benefits from our wonderful Center for Regenerative Medicine and our strength in stem cell research, tissue engineering and regeneration.

Infectious Diseases, Immunology & Pathogenesis (IDIP)

IDIP is a program focused on translating bench research to the bedside by investigating human organ systems in health and disease. It takes advantage of our outstanding clinical and basic scientists and the exciting interdisciplinary and collaborative atmosphere at USC.

Medical Biophysics (MBPH)

MBPH is a program seeks to answer important biomedical questions using all aspects of biophysics, with an emphasis on structural biology and biophysical methods and theories. Some faculty members of this program are located on the University Park (undergraduate) USC campus.

Molecular Medicine (MMED)

The Molecular Medicine PhD Program offers comprehensive research training at the intersection of medicine and molecular biology, equipping students with practical skills and a collaborative environment to make significant contributions to medical advancements.

Neuromedicine (NEUM)

The NEUM PhD program at Keck School of Medicine trains researchers to address neurological and neurodegenerative diseases through interdisciplinary approaches, equipping them with knowledge in disease biology, pathophysiology, model systems and data science, and the skills to conduct rigorous basic and translational research and develop cutting-edge technologies.  

College of Graduate Studies

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Biomedical Sciences, PhD Degree

The College of Graduate Studies Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences degree is dedicated to providing training in foundational and discipline-specific content, research ethics and critical thinking, the scientific method, and effective communication. Completion of this degree offers opportunities in academic institutions, industry, government agencies, and administrative positions for individuals who wish to pursue careers as independent researchers, educators, administrators, or other positions requiring a terminal degree.

Biomedical training is offered in the areas of addiction science, biochemistry, bioengineering, biomedical imaging, biostatistics, cancer biology, cellular biology, developmental biology, drug discovery, epidemiology, genetics and genomics, immunology and inflammation, microbiology, mitochondrial biology, RNA/DNA structure and function, neuroscience, oral health sciences, pathology, pharmacology, proteomics, lipidomics, glycomics, regenerative medicine, stem and iPS cell biology, virology, and many others.

The first-year curriculum offers an entire academic year for Ph.D. students to explore all graduate training programs before selecting a program and research area. The curriculum consists of interactive and comprehensive didactic units, self-selected laboratory rotations, and seminars to set the stage for your research career.

As of July 1, 2024, the base stipend for Ph.D. candidates has increased to $37,000.

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Completion of this degree offers opportunities in academic institutions, industry, government agencies and administrative positions for individuals who wish to pursue careers as independent researchers, educators, administrators or other positions requiring a terminal degree. This curriculum typically is completed in five to six years.  Base stipends for PhD students are $37,000 per year effective July 1, 2024.  Ph.D. students are also provided with paid health insurance and tuition and fees paid by a Dean’s scholarship. 

Graduate training in the biomedical sciences is offered in the following areas: biochemistry, bioengineering, bioinformatics, biostatistics, cancer biology, cardiovascular biology, cell biology, cell regulation, data science and informatics, drug discovery, epidemiology, genomics, genetics and development, immunology, lipidomics, microbiology, molecular biology, neuroscience, oral biology and pathogenesis, pathology, pharmacology, proteomics, signal transduction, structural biology, toxicology, virology and many others.

The first year curriculum offers an entire academic year for Ph.D. students to explore all of the graduate training programs before selecting a program and research area. More information about the curriculum and the research training programs can be found at the College of Graduate Studies. Students in biostatistics, epidemiology, data science, and informatics take a specialized curriculum designed by their department.

Requirements

The applicant must possess a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution of higher learning or a doctorate from a professional school. No single metric is used to assess applicants, but rather a broader picture of the candidate's qualities is considered by the admissions committee. Applicants are assessed on evidence of satisfactory undergraduate preparation in the sciences, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Participation in a monitored research experience is highly recommended for those interested in the basic sciences.  The general GRE test is no longer required for most of our programs. Students applying for Biostatistics and/or Epidemiology are strongly encouraged to submit their official GRE scores .

International Students

International applicants must have all application materials submitted by the Regular deadline of December 13, 2024. 

Because several months may be required for securing needed information and for processing an application from abroad, foreign nationals are urged to submit complete information as early as possible. In addition to other official entrance credentials, those applicants whose native language is not English must submit the official results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS score) exam. The TOEFL or IELTS score must not be more than two years old. Final consideration cannot be granted to an international student’s application for admission until these official scores are received by the Office of Enrollment Management. Competitive scores for the TOEFL equals 100 and for the IELTS equals 7.

If an international applicant has graduated or will graduate from an institution that uses English as the language of instruction, the TOEFL/IELTS may be waived upon request after the application is submitted.

All international applicants that have attended international institutions must submit transcripts that have been evaluated by an external credentials service by the application deadline to be considered. The program will not waive this requirement nor make exceptions . We accept evaluations from  World Education Services ,  National Association of Credential Evaluation Services , or  International Education Research Foundation . If offered a position, and the applicant has only submitted an unofficial transcript evaluation, the candidate will be required to provide an official transcript and evaluation before any further consideration of that applicant will be given.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted through the dates shown below. However, the admissions process is rolling and you are encouraged to submit all of your application materials by December 13 for best consideration. 

All applications to the College of Graduate Studies must be submitted online. If you are unable to apply online you must petition the office of the Dean for special accommodation explaining why you are unable to apply online. The online application fee is automatically waived for domestic applicants applying to all College of Graduate Studies Ph.D. programs.

In addition to the application itself the applicant must complete all supplemental materials specific for the program to which they are applying.  These forms are available in PDF format within the application and are also sent through email once an application is submitted.  If references are submitted electronically (see application for instructions), it is not necessary to submit paper references.

Applicants are required to submit unofficial or official transcripts for each and every post-secondary school attended even if listed as transfer credit on another transcript. All materials must be received by the application deadline. In the cases where we accept unofficial documents, the unofficial document must be a copy of the original. If you are submitting an unofficial transcript, it must reflect all courses, grades, degrees awarded (if applicable), and the name of the institution must be clearly visible.

All applicants that have attended international institutions are required to submit transcripts that have been evaluated by an external credentials service. We accept evaluations from  World Education Services ,  National Association of Credential Evaluation Services , or  International Education Research Foundation . If offered a position, and the applicant has only submitted an unofficial transcript evaluation, the candidate will be required to provide an official transcript and evaluation before any further consideration of that applicant will be given.

Some academic advising reports and degree audits do not contain all the necessary information so please review the document before submitting. As part of your online application, you may upload one copy of the scanned unofficial transcript from each undergraduate and graduate institution where you earned credit. For International transcripts, please make sure you include the diploma or certification verifying the degree obtained.

If you are offered a position, you will be asked to request an official transcript from each institution listed in the Education section of your application, regardless of the number of credits earned. MUSC reserves the right to rescind any offer of admission if any discrepancies are found between your unofficial and official transcripts.

As a Ph.D. student you may take an interdisciplinary first year curriculum that allows exposure to all departments and programs before a research area and mentor are selected. The curriculum consists of interactive and comprehensive didactic units, self-selected laboratory rotations, and seminars to set the stage for your research career. Later, we encourage you to define your own schedule of courses to complete your educational plan.

Departments & Training Programs

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Cell and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

Microbiology and Immunology

Molecular and Cellular Biology and Pathobiology Program

• Cancer Biology
• Cardiovascular Biology
• Molecular Cell Regulation
• Oral Health Sciences

Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences

Neuroscience Institute

Pathology and Laboratory Medicine

Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology

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Scholarship Eligibility

MUSC offers scholarships for which you may be eligible. Some are awarded based on academic achievement; others are awarded based on community service, for example. However, the majority of scholarships awarded at MUSC are based on financial need. This means those scholarships are only awarded to students who need some financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and fees. If you would like to be considered for a financial need-based scholarship, you must have an up-to-date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. Make sure you list Medical University of South Carolina on your FAFSA form, along with MUSC’s code: 003438. We encourage you to submit the FAFSA as early as possible. It is recommended to submit the FAFSA in January if you plan to enroll in the Fall.

Application Deadlines

 Applications received after regular deadline will be considered on a space available basis.

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Important information for proposers

All proposals must be submitted in accordance with the requirements specified in this funding opportunity and in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) that is in effect for the relevant due date to which the proposal is being submitted. It is the responsibility of the proposer to ensure that the proposal meets these requirements. Submitting a proposal prior to a specified deadline does not negate this requirement.

Graduate Research Internships at National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NSF-NIBIB/BETA INTERN) Supplemental Funding Opportunity

Dear Colleague:

Fostering the growth of a globally competitive and diverse research workforce and advancing the scientific and innovation skills of the Nation is a strategic objective of the National Science Foundation (NSF). The NSF and Center for Biomedical Engineering Technology Acceleration ( BETA ) housed in the National Institutes of Health (NIH)- National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering ( NIBIB ) have entered into a partnership to support the training of graduate students to meet both the NSF's strategic workforce development objectives as well the NIBIB's mission to transform through engineering the understanding of disease and its prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment and NIBIB's support of the next generation of diverse, interdisciplinary researchers across the career continuum.

This Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) describes this unique partnership with NIBIB/BETA and is aligned with and conforms with the NSF INTERN opportunity described in the Dear Colleague Letter: Non-Academic Research Internships for Graduate Students (INTERN) Supplemental Funding Opportunity . This DCL is referred to as the NSF - NIBIB/BETA INTERN DCL.

Recipients submitting an INTERN supplemental funding request are required to have a policy or code of conduct that addresses sexual harassment, other forms of harassment, and sexual assault. For more information, read about NSF policies regarding harassment .

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

NSF will consider supplemental funding requests that enable a Principal Investigator (PI) or co-PI to request up to six months of additional support for a graduate student supported on an active NSF award with the following goals:

• To provide graduate students with the opportunity to augment their research assistantships or NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) fellowships with non-academic research internship activities and training opportunities that will complement their academic research training.
• To allow graduate students to engage in professional development experiences that will enhance their preparation for multiple career pathways after graduation.
• To encourage the participation of the full spectrum of diverse talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

ELIGIBILITY

Recipients with awards that include funding for graduate students, including institutional Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) awards, are eligible to submit a supplemental funding request. The PI for an active GRFP fellowship (not the GRFP fellow) should contact GRFP ( [email protected] ) regarding specific requirements before submitting a supplemental funding request on behalf of a GRFP fellow.

To be supported through an INTERN supplement responding to this DCL, graduate students (including graduate research fellows) being considered must have completed at least one academic year in their graduate programs (master's or doctoral), be in good academic standing and demonstrate satisfactory progress towards their research.

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

PIs and co-PIs of NSF grants and the research advisor of the GRFP fellows are encouraged to contact Dr. Manu Platt ( [email protected] ) at NIBIB/BETA, to explore suitable opportunities for research traineeships at NIBIB/BETA in Bethesda, Maryland, for the graduate students who are supported on their NSF grants.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING REQUEST PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS

Information about requesting supplemental support is contained in the NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide ( PAPPG ), Chapter VI.E.5. In addition to the PAPPG requirements for supplemental support, the following materials must be included.

• A two-page summary that describes the internship
• A one-page personal statement from the graduate student describing career goals, accomplishments, and how the activity will better prepare the individual to enter the workforce.

Under supplementary documents provide the following:

• Research summary to include contribution(s) to research discipline
• Institution(s)
• Year of study (1st year, 2nd year, etc.)
• Completed coursework
• Employment and volunteer/outreach history
• Publications (accepted only)
• Other information relevant to the proposed internship

Graduate students supported by funding described in this DCL are encouraged to register for an ORCID ID and for this identifier to be provided to NSF in the student's resume as well as the PI's annual project report. ORCID® ( https://orcid.org/ ) is an open, non-profit, community-driven effort to create and maintain a registry of unique researcher identifiers and a transparent method of linking research activities and outputs to these identifiers. An ORCID identifier provides a unique and persistent digital identifier to distinguish individual researchers. While NSF encourages the use of an ORCID ID, submission of the ORCID ID is optional.

• A letter of collaboration from an authorized official at the host organization that describes the internship opportunity and mentoring the student will experience during the internship.
• An endorsement letter from the PI that confirms that the student meets the eligibility requirements specified in this DCL. The letter must describe how the proposed internship activity will contribute to the student's graduate education experience and how it may impact time to degree.
• A budget and a clear justification for all requested budget costs.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING AMOUNT

The total amount of funding requested must not exceed $55,000 per student for one six-month period. NSF plans to fund about 5-10 supplements per fiscal year, depending on the availability of funds.

PERIOD OF SUPPORT

The supplement funding will provide up to six months of support for an internship. Note: only one supplemental funding request may be submitted for a given student. A PI or co-PI may submit no more than one request per year of their award if there are multiple graduate students supported by the award, with the exception that GRFP will consider requests for internships for more than one GRFP Fellow from a single GRFP award.

Supplemental funding requests may be submitted at any time.

SUBMISSION AND REVIEW

Requests for supplemental funding must be submitted via Research.gov. A PI or Co-PI with an NSF award should contact the program director who manages the award prior to submission. GRFP INTERN supplement requests are submitted by the GRFP PI, not by the GRFP fellow or the fellow's research advisor. Requests for supplemental funding submitted in response to this DCL will be reviewed internally by NSF program directors. All supplements are subject to (a) the availability of funds and (b) merit review of the supplemental funding request.

SPECIAL AWARD CONDITION

Intellectual Property Rights: Internships under this DCL are considered equivalent to traineeships. The National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering claims no rights to any inventions or writings that might result from its traineeship awards. However, trainees should be aware that NSF, another Federal agency, or some private party may acquire such rights through other support for particular research. Also, trainees should note their obligation to include an Acknowledgment and Disclaimer in any publication.

For further information, please contact: Dr. Prakash Balan, [email protected] .

Susan Marqusee, Assistant Director Directorate for Biological Sciences (BIO)

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Best universities for biomedical science in the UK - A New Scientist Careers Guide

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Best universities for biomedical science in the UK

Biomedical science is extremely diverse as it encapsulates all scientific disciplines that can be applied to human health. It primarily involves laboratory research to study biological processes to enhance our understanding of health and disease, ultimately contributing to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic methods.

Biomedical science degrees tend to receive one of the highest number of applications per place in the UK. The University of Oxford, for instance, had 11.2 applications per place in 2023. This is understandable as the UK is at the forefront of biomedical research, housing seven of the 50 top universities worldwide for life sciences and medicine according to QS World University Rankings.

This article outlines the best UK universities for biomedical sciences in 2024, as ranked by The Complete University Guide, one of the most reputable national university rankings. Its league tables give an overall score based on the following parameters: entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality and graduate prospects.

The top 20 universities in the UK to study biomedical science:

• University of Oxford

The course at Oxford is taught by world experts in biomedical science. The first year covers a diverse range of topics in human biology and medicine. You will also develop professional, research and quantitative skills . Over the following two years, students can delve into specialised areas, e.g. pharmacology, physiology or genetics .

As you progress through the course, you will pick up advanced scientific research methods. You have the option to either graduate after three years with a BA in your chosen specialisation such as neuroscience or systems biology , or complete an additional fourth year dedicated to conducting an advanced research project, leading to a Master's degree. 

Entry requirements: A*AA, including two in biology/chemistry/physics/mathematics; Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT)

• University of Bath

Bath enjoys global recognition as one of the top universities in the country, particularly due to its research centres in evolution and mathematical biology. The uni provides two pathways for biomedical sciences: a BSc (three years) and an MBiomed (four years), each offering an additional placement year.

While the curricula for both are identical, MBiomed has a greater emphasis on research skills . Optional modules are available in later years. 

Entry requirements: AAA or A*AB, including A in biology and chemistry

• Lancaster University

Lancaster differentiates between biomedical sciences and biomedicine. The former teaches a set curriculum and is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS), enabling graduates to pursue careers within the NHS. Optional modules are only available in the final year. 

Biomedicine, on the other hand, offers flexibility in subject selection from the second year to match individual aspirations, priming students for an academic or industrial career. Additionally, students can transition to the MSci biomedicine programme or complete an additional year with a placement or studying abroad.

Entry requirements for both: AAB with A in biology and chemistry/ mathematics / physics

• University of St Andrews

At St Andrews, biomedical science is exclusively taught at postgraduate level in the form of its MSc(Res) in biology (biomedical sciences). This 12-month Master's degree involves completing a supervised research project. The biomedical sciences research department is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and led by world-renowned faculty.

Entry requirements: undergraduate honours degree at 2:1 or above in a relevant discipline, e.g. biochemistry, molecular biology or microbiology

• University College London (UCL)

UCL’s biomedical sciences course is recognised for generating highly employable graduates in life sciences . Transferring to its MSci programme can further enhance your job prospects in academia.

In year 1, all modules are mandatory, offering excellent exposure to various types of biomedical science. During the second year, you can specialise in specific streams, such as molecular biology or neurosciences. Year 3 involves a research project, as well as the opportunity to delve deeper into highly specialised optional courses, such as space medicine.  

Entry requirements: AAA in biology and chemistry , and preferably mathematics; GCSEs at grade B/6 in English and mathematics 

• University of Edinburgh

Edinburgh houses world-class research facilities and ranks highly for its impressive research output every year, particularly for its contribution to biomedical sciences. Its four-year BSc is a well-structured programme that offers great flexibility. 

The first two years cement core knowledge and principles, with a range of biomedical and non-biomedical modules to choose from. The teaching of fundamental concepts continues in years 3 and 4, when you can gain expert knowledge in specific areas of interest, as well as develop transferable skills. 

Moreover, the degree allows you to switch onto other specialised programmes after year 2 or 3, such as BSc anatomy and development, BSc physiology or BSc neuroscience.

Entry requirements: ABB with at least a B in biology and chemistry; maths or physics are recommended; GCSE English at 4/C and maths at 6/B

• University of Aberdeen

The third Scottish university in the top 10 has produced several impactful biomedical scientists, most notably John Macleod, the Nobel prizewinning scientist who co-discovered insulin. Aberdeen offers five biomedical science bachelor’s degrees: anatomy, developmental biology , molecular biology, pharmacology and physiology. 

The curriculum over the first two years is identical across all five courses, with a focus on general principles. The latter half of each degree focuses on its respective specialism. BSc biomedical sciences (anatomy) and BSc biomedical sciences (developmental biology) additionally offer a fifth year in industry or research. Aberdeen was ranked 1st for anatomy and physiology in 2024.

Entry requirements: ABB, including AB in chemistry and maths/another science, preferably biology

• Loughborough University

Loughborough’s three-year BSc in biomedical sciences is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). The course also offers an additional placement year in industry or abroad, which comes with an extra qualification each, a diploma in professional studies (DPS) and diploma in international studies (DIntS), respectively. The university has strong industry links with organisations such as GSK and Pfizer.

The programme starts off with mostly compulsory modules to build a strong foundation and gradually introduces more choices over the years to tailor your degree. In the final year, all modules are optional along with your mandatory research project.

Entry requirements: AAB, including biology and maths/another science

• University of Bristol

Bristol is renowned for its state-of-the art research facilities, including human patient simulators. Its course provides insight into various sectors, including biotechnology, the food industry and pharmaceuticals, with graduates going on to study for a PhD, work in industry, study medicine or apply their transferable skills in non-scientific fields.

The first year consists of compulsory modules introducing broad topics. Year 2 introduces more optional modules with three distinct pathways: cells and molecules, molecules and systems, and systems. There is also a focus on transferable skills and employability. Year 3 largely comprises optional modules along with your research project.

Entry requirements: AAA, including chemistry and maths/another science

• University of Manchester

Manchester’s BSc highly values flexibility and a wide range of transferable skills for its students, maximising employability. You have the option to extend the course by one year with an integrated Master’s, placement year, entrepreneurship or a modern language. You can also transfer onto other related courses within the university’s medical bioscience division.

As with most biomedical science degrees, you start with a broad range of compulsory subjects in year 1, specialising in areas of interest from year 2 onwards.

Entry requirements: AAA-AAB, including AA in two of chemistry/biology/physics/maths

• University of Birmingham

Birmingham’s biomedical sciences course is RSB-accredited. Similar to Manchester, it puts great emphasis on transferable skills and employability, allowing you to graduate with a BSc in biomedical science with biomedical entrepreneurship or a BSc in biomedical science with biomaterials. The university also offers an optional MSci year in industry or a clinical setting.

The course follows the same general outline as most biomed courses: a compulsory set of core modules in the first year with the introduction of optional courses in later years.

Entry requirements: AAB with AA in two of chemistry/biology/physics/maths

• University of Warwick

Warwick graduates are some of the most sought after by the UK’s top 100 employers. The university’s course is also accredited by the RSB and offers an optional year in industry or abroad between the second and third year. Although the course structure is similar to that of other universities, you can transfer to other related programmes at the end of the first year.

Entry requirements: AAB, including biology and maths /another science or AAA, including biology

• Swansea University

Swansea’s course is titled BSc applied medical sciences and offers a combination of compulsory and optional modules from year 1. In the second year, you can select from one of three “employability strands”: medical science in practice, enterprise and innovation, and medical science in research. 

The first strand is ideal for those wishing to pursue medicine afterwards, as you will be guaranteed an interview for its graduate entry medicine programme. The second is designed for entrepreneurial individuals interested in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals or product development. The final strand is suited for students with more of a pure academic focus.

Entry requirements: AAB-ABB, including biology/chemistry and maths/another science

• Queen’s University Belfast (QUB)

As with Lancaster’s course, QUB’s BSc in biomedical sciences is IBMS-accredited, thus allowing you to work in the NHS. As such, the course is mostly geared towards clinical medicine and diagnostics, comprising only compulsory modules throughout. Furthermore, QUB has a partnership with the University of Nevada, which offers an opportunity to complete a year in research between years 2 and 3.

Entry requirements: ABB, including AB in biology and chemistry, and GCSE maths grade C/4, or AAB, including A in biology or chemistry and a second science, and GCSE biology and chemistry grade C/4

• Newcastle University

Newcastle’s course is RSB-accredited and offers a year in industry or abroad. At the end of year 1, you also have an opportunity to transfer to other degrees, including medicine or dentistry.

The course itself follows the traditional path of a biomed degree, with set core modules in the beginning followed by more optional courses, including a compulsory module designed to enhance professional skills, e.g. business enterprise for the bioscientist.

Entry requirements: AAB, including biology/chemistry and maths/another science

• University of Sheffield

Sheffield offers its biomed course in four different formats: a standard three-year course, a four-year course with a year in industry, a four-year course with a year in research and a five-year course with one year in industry and another in research. The programmes with added years - which can be done abroad - will award you with an MBiomedSci.

Sheffield’s biomed courses offer optional modules from year 1. These provide exposure to not just the human body, but also those of other species if you wish, such as zoology or plant science .

Entry requirements: AAB, including two sciences

• King’s College London (KCL)

KCL has contributed greatly to medical science. One example is Rosalind Franklin’s crucial research at the university that helped us understand our DNA. The university has multiple industrial links with companies such as GSK and Pfizer, as well as partnerships with universities in Australia, Sweden, Singapore and the US. If you opt for its four-year MSci in biomedical science, you can spend a year in industry or abroad at these places.

Its course teaches a set of mandatory modules in year 1, followed by more options in the second and third years. You can transfer onto specialised biomed degrees, such as the molecular genetics BSc or the pharmacology BSc.

Entry requirements: AAA, including biology and chemistry

• University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde’s BSc in biomedical sciences is accredited by the IBMS as well as the RSB. The course has a strong focus on biomolecular science and teaches a set of compulsory modules through all years, with year 4 allowing you to choose one module from the biochemistry, immunology or microbiology curriculum. You also have the flexibility to switch to other biomolecular courses throughout.

Entry requirements: BBB, including biology or chemistry and another science

• University of Dundee

Dundee’s RSB-accredited BSc in biomedical sciences offers great flexibility as you can choose from a range of optional modules from year 1 along with a set of compulsory subjects. Optional courses include subjects that can help enhance your employability, such as an introduction to scientific enterprises.

You can also transfer to other degrees, including neuroscience or pharmacology . The course offers opportunities to study abroad in industry or academia too.

Entry requirements: BBB, including biology and chemistry plus GCSE maths at grade B/6

• University of Glasgow

As with St Andrews, Glasgow only offers biomedical sciences at a postgraduate level. In contrast, however, you can apply to either an MSc in biomedical sciences or an MRes in biomedical sciences. Both are accredited by the RSB. 

Although the core taught modules are the same, the latter course includes more extensive research projects in defined specialisms such as biotechnology or cell engineering , while the former offers a wide range of optional taught courses, e.g. neuroinflammation or genome editing.

Entry requirements: 2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject

Studying biomedical science opens many doors, not just within the realm of medical sciences, but also in other sectors. You can choose to pursue an academic career and undertake a PhD in areas of interest, such as cell biology, molecular biology or anatomy and physiology.

Alternatively, you could transition into professional and regulated healthcare careers such as medicine or dentistry. If you enjoy lab work exclusively, you could become a biomedical lab technician in the NHS.

If you are hoping to apply your transferable skills in the tech sector - or even in a completely unrelated field where you can provide a unique perspective - you could complete a relevant Master’s or gain exposure with internships or placements.

Whichever route you take, higher education in biomedical sciences is only the first step, but it shapes you into a highly employable professional with excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving and numerical skills.

Biomedical science is a great degree to study as it provides excellent exposure to the vastness of medical sciences, offering something for everyone. With such breadth, you are likely to find a particular niche you are passionate about. You also get to learn a wide range of skills, all while developing specialist knowledge.

While all universities on the list are renowned for their biomedical science courses, some may be more aligned with your interests than others. You should consider course structure, the range of optional courses, industrial or research opportunities and the location of the university when choosing the best place to study biomedical science for you.

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