genetics phd programs canada

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University of Manitoba

University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2

Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD)

Earn a Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD) in this four-year immersive program with a wide-range of potential thesis projects related to the following areas of research: cancer, computational biology, epigenetics, genetic basis of development and disease and regenerative medicine.

Program details

Admission requirements.

• Rady Faculty of Health Sciences • Faculty of Graduate Studies

• Doctor of Philosophy

Expected duration

• 4-5 years

Study with us

Dive into the thrilling world of biochemistry and medical genetics. From computational biology to molecular cytogenetics and beyond, your graduate studies begin here. The Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics strives to provide a stimulating educational experience that will motivate its students to become outstanding independent investigators, practitioners and teachers.

Cutting-edge research facilities

In addition to laboratories, The Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics offers common research support facilities and equipment to students and faculty. The department is home to biochemistry, molecular biological sciences and medical genetics expertise, creating an intellectually enriching research and teaching environment.

Dedicated faculty

Our faculty are locally, nationally and internationally recognized for their teaching and research accomplishments, having received prestigious awards for both. Moreover, our faculty members play a tremendous role in providing health care services to individuals and families affected with genetic and metabolic disorders.

The Faculty of Graduate Studies and the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences offer a four to five-year program of study leading to a Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD).

Expected duration: 4-5 years

Tuition and fees:  Tuition fees are charged for terms one and two and terms four and five. A continuing fee is paid for term three, term six and each subsequent term. (Refer to Graduate tuition and fees .)

In addition to the minimum course requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies found in the Graduate Studies Regulations Section , students must meet the following requirements depending on their method of entry.

Students entering with a thesis-based MSc must:

• Complete a minimum of 9 credit hours of coursework
• Complete and successfully defend a doctoral thesis

Students transferring from the Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (MSc) must:

• Complete 6 credit hours in addition to the 10 credit hours required in fulfillment of the MSc program

Sample course offerings

Here are some examples of the courses offered for this program:

• BGEN 7020: Proteins
• BGEN 7070: Special Topics in Human Genetics
• BGEN 7090: Principles and Practice of Human Genetics
• BGEN 7130: Genetic Epidemiology of Human Populations
• BGEN 7180: Clinical and Molecular Cytogenetics
• BGEN 7200: Topics in Biochemistry
• BGEN 7250: Gene Expression and Epigenetics
• IMED 7120: Medical Biochemistry
• IMED 7170: Medical Genetics
• IMED 7200: Cancer Biology

For a full list of courses and descriptions of each, please visit the Academic Calendar .

The following are minimum requirements to be considered for entry into the Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD) program. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

To be considered for admission to the Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD), you must have:

• A thesis-based master's degree (of at least two years in duration) or equivalent in biochemistry, genetics or a closely related field
• a cumulative GPA of 3.5 over a 4.5 scale or equivalent and no grade less than C+ in courses taken during the master's program

In some cases, master's students who have made excellent progress in the first year of their program, may be considered for a transfer to the PhD program. Please refer to the Faculty of Graduate Studies supplementary regulations for more information.

In addition to the admission requirements described here, all applicants must meet the minimum admission and English language proficiency requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies .

How to apply

Applicants must interview (by email or virtually) with a potential supervisor prior to applying and obtain confirmation from the supervisor that the supervisor will accept them if they are approved and offered admission by the Faculty of Graduate Studies. This potential supervisor must be a University of Manitoba Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics faculty member.

The Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD) program accepts applications for Fall, Winter and Summer entry. Applications must be completed online and include several parts:

• Application fee (non-refundable)
• Unofficial copies of transcripts and degree certificates
• Supervisor support (must be confirmed prior to applying)
• Statement of intent
• Two letters of recommendation (must be requested from within the application)
• Proof of English language proficiency (if required)

Please read the Faculty of Graduate Studies online application instructions before beginning your application.

Application deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Architecture reviews applications in March.

Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.

Start or continue your application

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Winter applications are accepted on a case-by-case basis.

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Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applications open September 1 of year prior to start term.

Applications open   up to 18 months prior  to start term.

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Program currently undergoing review, applications will not be opening at this time.

Select Preventive Dental Science in the Program drop-down on the application form.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Educational Administration, Foundations and Psychology reviews applications in March / April.

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Applications are reviewed after the deadline, with decisions issued in March - April.

Currently not accepting applications to this program.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. Applications received by the March 1 deadline for a September start-date will receive first consideration for any available funding. Late applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis for any available funding, please contact the department for further information.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Human Rights reviews applications in January - March.

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Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee reviews applications as per the timelines noted below each table.

Winter applications reviewed in October Summer applications reviewed in February Fall applications reviewed in June

Winter applications reviewed in June Summer applications reviewed in October Fall applications reviewed in February

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. This includes having the support of a faculty supervisor before you apply.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Natural Resources Management reviews applications in March - June.

After the annual application deadline (see below), applications are reviewed on a committee basis by the Faculty of Social Work internal admissions committee. Once this process is complete, decisions are sent to all applicants in March / April. 

Applications open  July 1 of year prior to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Social Work reviews applications in March / April.

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Master of Occupational Therapy regular program  applications open September 15 of the year prior to deadline .

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The name of your confirmed supervisor is required at the time of application. To identify a prospective thesis research supervisor on your application, please  contact Immunology Faculty members .

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Community Health Sciences reviews applications in March / April.

Canadian, US and International applicants

The name of your preferred supervisor is required at time of application.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Students selected for in-person interview will be notified in February.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Physician Assistant Studies reviews applications in April.

Offers of admission will be released to successful applicants on May 17, 2024 from the University of Manitoba Master of Physician Assistant Studies, the same day as the University of Toronto BScPA Program and McMaster University Physician Assistant Education Program. The three institutions are pleased to provide applicants their offers on the same day to help with the decision-making process.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pharmacology and Therapeutics reviews applications one month after the application deadline.

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Applications for Pathologist Assistant are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pathologist Assistant reviews applications in April / May. 

The Pathologist Assistant program only admits Canadian and US students every two years. The next intake is tentatively scheduled for Fall 2026.

Canadian and US applicants

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Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Statistics reviews applications in March / April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Biological Sciences reviews applications one month after deadline.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Indigenous Studies reviews applications in February and June.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. For those who wish to be considered for scholarships, applications must be received by January 15 of the year in which you're seeking admission.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions Committee for Applied Human Nutrition reviews applications in February.

Les demandes d’admission sont évaluées par un comité . Le comité d’admission évalu les demandes durant les mois de Mars et Avril.  

Les demandes peut être surmise jusqu’à concurrence de 18 mois avant le début de premier trimestre.

Toute demande d’admission en ligne doit être déposée, avec documents à l’appui, au plus tard aux dates indiquées.

Soumettre ou continuer votre application

Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics

Through innovative research and scholarship, the Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics working to understand, prevent and treat disease, including genetic disorders.

Financial aid and awards

There are a variety of awards and funding options available to help you pay for school as a student in the Max Rady College of Medicine.

Tuition and fees

Learn more about tuition and fee requirements associated with graduate studies at UM.

Explore program requirements and detailed descriptions of required and elective courses offered in the Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD) program.

Explore the Max Rady College of Medicine

For over 125 years, the Max Rady College of Medicine has contributed to education, research and clinical service. Western Canada’s first medical school, the College develops qualified medical graduates who distinguish themselves through excellence in clinical care, health system innovation and leadership, and internationally recognized research.

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Discovery happens here. Join the graduate students and researchers who come here from every corner of the world. They are drawn to the University of Manitoba because it offers the opportunity to do transformational research.

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With over 140 graduate programs across multiple faculties, schools and colleges, the University of Manitoba offers more learning, teaching and research opportunities than any other post-secondary institution in the province.

• Immunology (PhD)
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Admission and application inquiries

Faculty of Graduate Studies Room 500 UMSU University Centre 65 Chancellors Circle University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus) Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

[email protected] Phone: 204-474-9377

Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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The Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics Room 336 Basic Medical Sciences Building 745 Bannatyne Avenue University of Manitoba Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9 Canada [email protected] Phone: 204-789-3593 Fax: 204-789-3900

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Human Genetics and Genomics

Why human genetics and genomics @ memorial.

The graduate program in Human Genetics and Genomics  will enable students to pursue academic studies and research towards an MSc or PhD degree in a number of areas of genetics. The Faculty members have multi-disciplinary research expertise. Strengths of the faculty are in the areas of cancer genetics, genetic epidemiology, gene mapping, medical genetics, birth defects, population genetics, complex diseases, animal models and development, and bioinformatics. Faculty members from all three Divisions of the Faculty of Medicine (BioMedical Sciences, Community Health and Clinical Sciences) participate in the program. This multi-disciplinary integrated approach to teaching and research training is designed to provide trainees with an understanding of human genetics which includes both theory and practical applications of human disease. The close association of basic and clinical researchers provide an ideal setting in which to obtain an integrated understanding of human genetics.

The Faculty of Medicine supports a visiting speaker program, teaching assistant (TA) opportunities, internal awards and scholarships, administrative staff support and the Office of Research & Graduate Studies dedicated to medicine graduate student matters. The Health Sciences Library is located in the Health Sciences Centre, adjacent to the Faculty of Medicine.

Description of programs

The program offers exciting learning and research opportunities. Graduate training is enriched by in-class courses, Genetics Seminar Series, and research projects (degree requirement). In addition, Graduate Student Research Forum, visiting speaker program, and experiential learning opportunities enhance the graduate learning and training. Students will be expected to participate in the activities of the Genetics group. These include a weekly Journal Club/Genetics Seminar Series. The Journal Club/Genetics Seminar Series is held regularly and provides an opportunity for the presentation and discussion of recent research results, published articles or issues of general interest to the members of the group. Graduate students, faculty members and genetic counsellors act as regular presenters in this activity. All PhD students are expected to present each term during their program. Graduate students will also be expected to attend all seminars presented by invited visitors of the Human Genetics Group.

Both MSc and PhD degree programs are thesis-based programs. In order to obtain an MSc or PhD degree, students will be required to have completed an advanced undergraduate course in genetics, Genetics Seminar Series, a minimum of two graduate level courses (for MSc), and a thesis based on original research. PhD students may be recommended to take graduate level courses if needed. Students admitted to or transferring to the PhD program will be required to pass a comprehensive examination in accordance with the regulations governing the School of Graduate Studies.

Normally, the duration of MSc and PhD programs are 2 and 4 years, respectively.

This program is home to The Human Genetics Student Society (HGSS). HGSS is a student-run society that aims to support the students and enhance their experiences. HGSS is also quite active in community activities, which provide excellent experiential learning opportunities for students.

Contact a faculty supervisor

The Human Genetics and Genomics graduate program requires research project supervision by a primary graduate supervisor, or through a co-supervision arrangement. Interested applicants are strongly advised to connect with a potential faculty supervisor prior to application.

Visit the Human Genetics and Genomics website for a list of faculty members to search their key research areas of interest. You may also use the Yaffle search application to find a potential supervisor. Please note that acceptance to this program is very competitive. The School of Graduate Studies offers advice on how to search for and contact potential supervisors . Need more help? Try attending one of our webinars and information sessions for prospective graduate students.

Minimum admission requirements

• MSc (Med) – Bachelor's degree (minimum second class) in an appropriate area of study
• PhD – Master’s degree in an appropriate area of study

Application deadlines

Applications to the Human Genetics program are considered throughout the year for Winter, Spring or Fall start dates. Applicants must hold a superior academic record and be accepted by a faculty supervisor(s) within the Faculty of Medicine.

Potential career options and outcomes

Academic faculty member (university, college or private institution), research scientist (public or private laboratory), research assistant, health policy fellowship, physician, scientific writer, grants facilitator, entrepreneur (start-up company)

Graduate student and alumni profiles

Our graduate students come from all parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, and the world. View the student profile below to learn more about what they do and why they chose Memorial.

Note: All figures are in Canadian dollars and subject to change. Fees are approved by the University’s Board of Regents. In the event of a discrepancy between the fees approved by the Board and those published on this website, the fees approved by the Board will prevail. Financial policies are enforced through the Department of Financial and Administrative Services. For the complete and official list of all fees and charges, visit www.mun.ca/finance/fees/ .

Program Information

Degrees offered:.

MSc (Med) (Human Genetics and Genomics) PhD (Human Genetics and Genomics) MD-PhD

Duration (Full-time students):

MSc (Med): 1-2 years

PhD: 4 years

Application Deadline:

No deadline

MSc (Med): $12,000 PhD: $12,000-$20,000 More funding information

Tuition (NL students):

MSc (Med): $635-$953/semester PhD: $888/semester

Tuition (Other Canadian students):

MSc (Med): $826-$1,239/semester PhD: $1,154/semester

Tuition (International students):

MSc (Med): $1,074-$1,611/semester PhD: $1,499/semester More tuition information

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Related Content

• Faculty Research Summaries
• Cancer Genetics & Genomics
• DNA Repair & Genome Stability
• Clinical Genetics & Ethics & Policy
• Developmental Genetics & Birth Defects
• Epigenetics, Epigenomics & Gene Regulation
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Graduate Program

The Department of Medical Genetics offers Master of Science and PhD research-focused, thesis-based degree programs, attracting students  from Canada and around the world. Trainees conduct research in laboratories affiliated with the University of British Columbia, an institution that consistently ranks among the world’s best universities. UBC is located in Vancouver, British Columbia, one of the world’s most livable cities .

RESEARCH STRENGTHS AND FACILITIES

Research faculty in the Department of Medical Genetics are at the forefront of their fields employing cutting edge genetic, epigenetic, genomic and bioinformatic methodologies to gain insight into diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative and neurological disorders, and other genetic diseases. Researchers in the Department are highly interactive and collaborate with local, national, and international colleagues, which further enriches the research experience for trainees.

Areas of Research Include:

• Cancer Genetics & Genomics
• Clinical Genetics, Genetic Counselling and Ethics & Policy
• Developmental Genetics
• DNA Repair & Genome Stability
• Epigenetics, Epigenomics & Gene Regulation
• Genetic Epidemiology & Population Genetics
• Genomics & Bioinformatics
• Neurogenetics & Neurodegenerative Disease Genetics
• Stem Cells & Gene Therapy

Individual labs conduct clinical and/or translational research and basic experimental research engaging a wide variety of approaches including the use of model organisms such as mice, flies (D. melanogaster), worms (C. elegans), and yeast (S. cerevisiae).

72 Best universities for Genetics in Canada

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in Canada ranked based on their research performance in Genetics. A graph of 30.7M citations received by 834K academic papers made by 72 universities in Canada was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University of Toronto

For Genetics

2. University of British Columbia

3. McGill University

4. University of Alberta

5. University of Montreal

6. University of Calgary

7. McMaster University

8. Western University

9. Laval University

10. University of Ottawa

11. University of Manitoba

12. University of Guelph

13. Dalhousie University

14. Queen's University

15. University of Saskatchewan

16. University of Waterloo

17. University of Sherbrooke

18. Simon Fraser University

19. Memorial University of Newfoundland

20. University of Victoria

21. York University

22. Carleton University

23. Concordia University

24. University of Quebec in Montreal

25. University of New Brunswick

26. Polytechnic School of Montreal

27. University of Windsor

28. Brock University

29. University of Lethbridge

30. Wilfrid Laurier University

31. University of Quebec, Trois-Rivieres

32. University of Prince Edward Island

33. Ryerson University

34. Lakehead University

35. University of Regina

36. Laurentian University

37. Trent University

38. Royal Military College of Canada

39. University of Winnipeg

40. University of Moncton

41. University of Quebec at Chicoutimi

42. Ontario Tech University

43. Mount Allison University

44. University of Quebec in Rimouski

45. University of Northern British Columbia

46. St. Francis Xavier University

47. Acadia University

48. School of Higher Technology - University of Quebec

49. Saint Mary's University

50. HEC Montreal

51. Brandon University

52. University of Quebec

53. Mount Saint Vincent University

54. Cape Breton University

55. University of Quebec, Abitibi-Temiscamingue

56. Thompson Rivers University

57. Vancouver Island University

58. Nipissing University

59. Bishop's University

60. MacEwan University

61. University of Quebec in Outaouais

62. Mount Royal University

63. Trinity Western University

64. Quest University Canada

65. British Columbia Institute of Technology

66. Algoma University

67. University of the Fraser Valley

68. Kings University in Canada

69. University of Saint-Boniface

70. Royal Roads University

71. Concordia University of Edmonton

72. Kwantlen Polytechnic University

The best cities to study Genetics in Canada based on the number of universities and their ranks are Toronto , Vancouver , Montreal , and Edmonton .

Biology subfields in Canada

School of Graduate Studies

Molecular genetics, program overview.

The Department of Molecular Genetics is administered from the Medical Sciences Building and has nearly 100 faculty members whose labs are located within the Medical Science Building, the Best Institute, the Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, the FitzGerald Building, the Hospital for Sick Children, Mount Sinai Hospital, the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, and Princess Margaret Hospital.

The Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy programs in Molecular Genetics offer research training in a broad range of genetic systems from bacteria and viruses to humans. Research projects include DNA repair, recombination and segregation, transcription, RNA splicing and catalysis, regulation of gene expression, signal transduction, interactions of host cells with bacteria and viruses, developmental genetics of simple organisms (worms and fruit flies) as well as complex organisms (mice), molecular neurobiology, molecular immunology, cancer biology and virology, structural biology, and human genetics and gene therapy.

Students may also be interested in the combined degree program in  Medicine, Doctor of / Doctor of Philosophy (MD/PhD) .

See video: Explore Graduate Programs at the Faculty of Medicine .

Please direct admission enquiries to [email protected] .

Quick Facts

“Ware aspires to be a leader in the field of academic paediatric oncology. His mentors describe him as a rising star in biomedical research who possesses a rare combination of insight, creativity and compassion”

Graduate Studies: Research

Our MSc program is designed to train students as competent scientists.Our PhD program is designed to train students as independent scientists.

Program Highlights

Rotation system.

Graduate students spend 5 weeks in 3 different labs before choosing which lab is right for them. Students who already hold an M.Sc. and/or in the M.D./Ph.D. program can enter a lab for their Ph.D. (with the prospective supervisor's permission).

New graduate students develop a strong foundation in core Molecular Genetics Principles, including Genetics, Genomics, Proteins, and Computational Biology. In addition, they have the opportunity to probe the minds of up to 10 visiting internationally renowned scientists whose discoveries intersect with our scientific interests in Colloquium.

Focus on Research

We believe this is the best way to train our graduate students to become independent scientists. We require our graduate students to spend a total of only 84 hours for Ph.D. and 48 hours for M.Sc. students in the classroom throughout their studies.

September Admission

Admission into our program in September with  three opportunities per year to apply to our Department.

Incoming students kick off their graduate journeys at the   annual MoGen Retreat . 

Direct Ph.D. entry

Direct entry to our PhD program - for those qualified applicants who only have a B.Sc. degree

and/or  

A straightforward transition from the M.Sc. stream to the Ph.D. stream without having to write an M.Sc. thesis.

A Competitive and Guaranteed Stipend 

The stipend does not require spending time being a Teaching Assistant, although those opportunities exist for those interested.

The major strength of the Department of Molecular Genetics is its widely recognized Faculty who run a remarkable variety of world-class research programs in diverse areas such as:

Our faculty made important contributions in many fields and have received numerous national and international awards. Additionally, the Department recruited 38 members over the past ten years. Although our 'experienced faculty' are masters at adapting new scientific approaches, our more recent members bring an energy and perspective that provides new and exciting opportunities for our graduate students.

See our faculty profiles here

As a Department, our primary focus is on graduate training. Graduates from our programs regularly gain postdoctoral positions in prestigious laboratories and staff positions in major universities, research institutes, and industry worldwide.

If your interests lie in molecular genetics, biotechnology, genomics, microbiology, cancer biology, infectious disease, genomic medicine, systems biology, bioinformatics, computational biology, human genetics, cellular and molecular structure and function, proteomics and metabolomics, genetic models, understanding of gene regulation and genome organization a molecular genetics degree from the Department of Molecular Genetics will be right for you. In this program, you will get a chance to study everything from fundamental biology of DNA and RNA, microbiome and neuroscience to translational medicine and applied research on diseases like cancer, diabetes, tuberculosis, rare disease, muscle disorders and many others. You can learn a wide range of methods in nucleic acid and protein research, perform CRISPR screens, work with stem cells, animal models and computer simulations. Get career ready with the support of our graduate advisor team for diverse opportunities in industry, business, academia and government.

Degree Specializations

Your graduate career, check out the mogen graduate students association (gsa) links for grad-specific news, updates, and events, official website.

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Faculty of Medicine

PhD in Molecular Biology

Graduate 3-466-1-0

Bon à savoir! Ce programme s’adresse autant aux francophones qu’aux anglophones. Consultez la fiche descriptive en français pour en savoir plus.

Contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of molecular biology through this doctorate program that focuses on general research, systems biology and cellular and molecular medicine.

About this program

Pursue a career in research.

With this molecular biology research doctorate program, you will benefit from in-depth theoretical and practical training based on leading multidisciplinary learning, as well as experimental practice in academic research settings. Apply cutting-edge techniques and methods in biotechologies, genomics and proteomics, while developing your analytical skills and critical thinking. You will also build your cross-functional skill set, such as work processes, communication, integrity, ethics, as well as equity, diversity, and inclusion values. Writing and defending a thesis is required in all options.

• Interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary program offered by the Faculty of Medicine jointly with the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
• Faculty from various departments working to develop centres and programs in basic, translational and applied research
• Training in theory and practice in a variety of sectors

Language accommodations

Although Université de Montréal is a French-language university, many of our research departments are open to creating a bilingual environment for students in graduate-level programs. These departments are aware of the importance of bilingualism in order for graduate students to succeed in their research careers.

Students who are proficient in English are therefore welcome and accepted into graduate-level programs.

When you enroll in the PhD Molecular Biology program, you have access to a number of accommodations to make you feel comfortable and help you fulfill the requirements of the program even if French is not your main language of study:

• Choice of giving oral seminar presentations in either French or English.
• Choice of writing exams in French or English.
• Choice of taking the comprehensive exam in either French or English.
• Choice of writing your doctoral thesis or dissertation in French or English.

All laboratories are offered in a bilingual environment. Above all, staff in the program are available to help and support you throughout your studies.

Benefit from this unique translational research training opportunity combining basic laboratory research with the needs of clinical practice. The focus is on using cutting-edge technologies to study human diseases to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that can be made rapidly available to patients.

Receive comprehensive research training and learn basic cutting-edge techniques and methods used to study biological macromolecules. Choose from an impressive range of courses to ultimately concentrate on a field of research. Areas include molecular genetics, gene activity regulation, tissue development, signalling pathways, nucleic acid and protein modifications, macromolecular chemistry, virology and biotechnology.

Learn concepts and gain practical experience in systems biology using high-throughput technologies such as genomics and proteomics. You will be prepared to meet the challenge of working across several complementary disciplines to study complex problems related to multigenic diseases, such as cancer.

Advantages of studying molecular biology at UdeM Graduate study programs centred on excellence and innovation

• Experience university research settings at the forefront of advances in knowledge and emerging technologies
• Discover the UdeM Faculty of Medicine, an international and national leader in research
• Benefit from the expertise and international reputation of faculty members
• Carry out your work in state-of-the art laboratories
• Belong to a large community of Quebec and international students

Courses and specifics

For contact information on the program director or student file management technician, or to find out more about the faculty or department hosting the program, please see the page in French .

• Dissertation or thesis track

Students will learn to synthesize their research, give an oral presentation, and discuss their projects. Students are required to attend other students' presentations.

This course is divided into seven sessions on current topics in molecular biology. For each session, students prepare four publications and present one to their group of four students for discussion, with the supervision of the professor.

Students attend five lectures and attend the related reading groups on chromatin and the cell cycle as part of conferences or weekly seminars whose content has been approved by the coordinators.

Students attend five lectures and attend the related reading groups on signalling and transcription as part of conferences or weekly seminars whose content has been approved by the coordinators.

Students attend five lectures and attend the related reading groups on stem cells and the immune system as part of conferences or weekly seminars whose content has been approved by the coordinators.

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Admission requirements

You are eligible only if a faculty member has agreed to supervise your research project or work prior to submitting your admission application.

Be sure to select your choices to display the eligibility conditions that apply to you.

• Letter of intent or of interest
• Curriculum vitae
• Detailed description of research projects
• Two letters of recommendation
• Attestation of training, if applicable
• Acceptance letter from a research director identified

The maximum length is fifteen sessions (five years) for full-time students, excluding preparatory or “on leave” sessions. This deadline may be extended by one year with the permission of the Graduate Studies Committee.

Costs and financial aid

$2,117.74 *

Total for a full-time session of 15 credits

Tuition fees: $1,483.65

Other fees: $634.09

These amounts are estimates and do not account for other expenses, such as costs for insurance, residence, transportation, manuals, etc.

Check your legal status

* These estimates cannot at any time subsitute for an invoice or be used as proof for any reason whatsoever. These calculations are based on the 2024-2025 academic year. Information updated: June 5, 2024

Good news! You may be able to lower this amount!

Under certain conditions, Canadian students who are not residents of Quebec can follow university study programs offered in French while benefiting from the same tuition fees as residents of Quebec.

Check eligibility criteria

$9,753.94 *

Tuition fees: $9,119.85

As an international student, you have access to exemption scholarships granted by UdeM throughout your university program. Note that for ungraduated programs, you must be enrolled as a full-time student for two sessions and reside in Quebec in the case of exclusively online study programs.

Find out about the UdeM exemption scholarship

Available financial assistance

Scholarships offered annually to students with excellent academic records

Funding offered to students, all programs combined

Funding offered for doctoral programs 

Scholarship program for exemption from additional tuition fees for international students

Scholarships and mobility funding programs offered to students from the Université de Montréal who wish to study abroad

Future prospects Pursuing a career or further studies? The choice is yours!

Pursue a career in research, or opt for a career in clinical research assessment, teaching, scientific communication, project management, or drug development.

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Biostatistics (PhD)

Program description.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biostatistics offered by the Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health in the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences is a research-intensive program that emphasizes engaging and cutting-edge learning opportunities. The program's objective is to equip students with skills in independent thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication to pursue professional opportunities in academia or industry.

Keywords: causal inference, dynamic treatment regimes, longitudinal data, spatial statistics, statistical genetics, time series, statistics, data science, Bayesian, clinical trials, causal inference, disease mapping, genomics, pharmacoepidemiology, spatio-temporal processes, statistical genetics, statistical computing

Unique Program Features

• The program trains students to become independent scientists able to develop and apply statistical methods in medicine and biology and make original contributions to the theoretical and scientific foundations of statistics in these disciplines;
• Faculty members focus their research in areas that include survival analysis, non-parametric and semi-parametric modelling, analysis of longitudinal data, causal inference, statistical computing, classification and regression trees, methods for evaluating diagnostic accuracy, Bayesian statistics in medicine, statistical methods for clinical trials, and the design and analysis of epidemiologic studies;
• Graduates pursue careers as biostatisticians in government agencies (e.g., the Public Health Agency of Canada, Statistics Canada, NRC, Santé Québec, INSPQ, regional departments of public health, health technology assessment units), the pharmaceutical industry and the contract research organizations (CROs) that perform statistical work for industry, in academia (e.g., Departments of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Statistics) as well as hospital and other medical research institutes.

University-Level Admission Requirements

• An eligible Bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA out of a possible 4.0 GPA
• English-language proficiency

Each program has specific admission requirements including required application documents. Please visit the program website for more details.

Visit our Educational credentials and grade equivalencies and English language proficiency webpages for additional information.

Program Website

PhD in Biostatistics website

Department Contact

Graduate Program graduate.eboh [at] mcgill.ca (subject: PhD%20in%20Biostatistics%20website) (email)

Available Intakes

Application deadlines.

Note : Application deadlines are subject to change without notice. Please check the application portal for the most up-to-date information.

Application Resources

• Application Steps webpage
• Submit Your Application webpage
• Connecting with a supervisor webpage
• Graduate Funding webpage

Application Workshops

Consult our full list of our virtual application-focused workshops on the Events webpage.

Department and University Information

Graduate and postdoctoral studies.

Admission Requirements

Application requirements.

• Application to the MS program in Genetic Counseling is made through the Slate application at https://wcgsconnect.weill.cornell.edu/apply/ . The application will be made available as early as April 30. Applicants must have  completed  and  electronically submitted (“e-submitted” or an “e-submission”) online through Slate application  no later than December 1, of the application submission year, for admission to the class entering in fall of the following year. NOTE: Any specific requirements that must be included with the e-submitted application are described below.
• For your application to be considered, you must first be registered for the match process through National Matching Services (NMS), by December 1 of the application submission year. Please review information about the Genetic Counseling Match at  https://natmatch.com/gcadmissions/ . Only applicants who enroll in the match process can be considered for admission. The GC Admissions Match has been established to enhance the process of placing applicants into positions in masters-level genetic counseling programs that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC).
• Bachelor’s Degree:  All applicants must have earned a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent from a recognized University or College. Proof of degree conferral will be required prior to matriculation.
• Prerequisite Coursework:  The minimum course requirements include:
• 4 (four) courses of Biological/Biochemical sciences (at least two courses must have a lab component). Including:
• 1 (one) course of Biochemistry (lab component strongly  recommended )
• 1 (one) course of Molecular Biology/Genetics
• 1 (one) course of Statistics
• 2 (two) courses of Psychology
• 1 (one) course of English Composition (or college-level equivalent-rhetoric or college writing course)
• Grade Point Average : In general, the MS in Genetic Counseling Program expects its applicants to have maintained an undergraduate average of "B" or better (GPA of 3.3) in science and humanities. NOTE: The most recently admitted PhD and MS graduate education classes at WCGS had an average overall GPA of 3.6 and an average science GPA of 3.6.
• Graduate Record Examination:  The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required but will be considered if submitted.  Applicants who take the General GRE Aptitude Test (which must include: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing components)  may choose to submit scores toward consideration of their application.  Applicants must request Educational Testing Service ( www.ETS.org ) to send official score reports to BioMedCAS. These official scores must arrive at BioMedCAS no later than December 1, of the application cycle.  Applications that post a GRE testing date after their BioMedCAS-reported e-submission date will not include this information in the admissions committee review.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):  All applicants whose native language is not English are required to take the TOEFL examination. Application to take the TOEFL may be made directly to: Test of English as a Foreign Language, P.O. Box 6151, Princeton, NJ 08541-6151. The Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences Institution Code Number is 2119. 
• Personal Statement: To be used as an opportunity to showcase why a candidate is interested in the field of genetic counseling, who you are as a person and why you would be a good fit at Weill Cornell Medical College. The personal statement should be between 300-700 words and describe yourself in a way that your CV does not.
• Resume or CV
• Experience in a Counseling Setting (volunteer or paid): This is highly recommended as an indicator of the student’s understanding of and commitment to interaction with the public.
• Shadowing of a genetic counselor in a clinical setting is strongly recommended.
• Letters of Reference:  At least three (3) references/letters of recommendation are required as part of the initial application of which,  one letter must be from a counseling setting (ex: supervisor at mental health crisis line)  and  one letter must be of an academic type (i.e. from a prior instructor) . 
• Interview : Competitive applicants will be invited for an interview at the MS in Genetic Counseling Program, Weill Cornell Medical College.
• Application Fee : $80 nonrefundable; A fee waiver is available for qualifying applicants, contact us to learn more. 

Registering for Match

The Genetic Counselor Educators Association (GCEA) has established a waiver for the $100 fee associated with the NMS Match. Prospective students who demonstrate financial need and have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater can apply for a match fee waiver. Deadline for application is October 4, 2024. Please click here for further instructions on applying for the waiver.

Weill Cornell Medicine Graduate School of Medical Sciences 1300 York Ave. Box 65 New York, NY 10065 Phone: (212) 746-6565 Fax: (212) 746-8906

• Master of Science in Medical Genetics (MSc)
• Graduate School
• Prospective Students
• Graduate Degree Programs

Go to programs search

The UBC Department of Medical Genetics is an inspiring and productive community of scholars of genetics and genomics; an outstanding provider of knowledge, technical expertise, and compassionate care for our patients. The Department is composed of dozens of faculty members at the forefront of their fields who use cutting edge genetic, epigenetic, genomic, and bioinformatic methodologies to gain insight into diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative and neurological disorders, and other genetic diseases. Research is highly interactive and often involves local, national, and international collaborations which further enrich the research experience.

Individual labs conduct clinical and/or translational research and basic experimental research engaging a wide variety of approaches including the use of model organisms such as mice, flies (D. melanogaster), worms (C. elegans), and yeast (S. cerevisiae).

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

What makes the program unique?

The Mission of the UBC Department of Medical Genetics is to pursue basic and clinical research for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of genetic disease. Our goal is to be a world leader in the research, clinical practice, and teaching of Genetic Medicine. We are a respected source of information and advice to society. While focusing on key areas of genetic medicine, we view diversity of approach and techniques to be an essential strength of our Department.

I knew that UBC had wonderful communities of like-minded researchers and clinicians with whom I knew I wanted to work with and learn from. I was grateful for the opportunity to further expand my professional network here in Vancouver by attending UBC for my graduate studies.

Emilie Théberge

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, program instructions.

Grade Point Average (GPA) – Canadian applicants:

• GPA calculation of Canadian degrees is based on all upper-level courses taken in the most recent, full time degree.

Grade Point Average (GPA) – international degrees:

• Check your COUNTRY of education for minimum GPA and length of degree program to determine if your credentials meet UBC admission requirements. GPA calculation is based on the final, overall standing (grade) achieved in the last completed degree. Final standing is determined from your school's grading system.

1) Check Eligibility

Minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.5

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Prior degree requirements.

MSc applicants: BSc degree (focused on life sciences, biotechnology, etc.)

Course Requirements

Mandatory advanced-level courses in:

Genetics and/or genomics

Strongly recommended advanced-level courses in one or more of the following:

Biochemistry

Molecular Biology

Biostatistics (Statistics)

Bioinformatics (i.e. MICB 405 or equivalent)

Additional criteria:

Relevant laboratory research experience

Excellent references with assessment of research expertise and aptitude

Document Requirements

A complete application includes:

Application form

Letter of interest / intent (1 page)

Curriculum Vitae

References (3)

TOEFL or IELTS test scores

• NOTE: Your application will not be reviewed, and therefore be rejected if your OVERALL AND COMPONENT test scores are below the required Medical Genetics minimum scores. There will be no exceptions. 

Official post-secondary transcripts; and degree certificates (international students)

• Unofficial transcripts, web transcripts and poor-quality scans are not acceptable. Do not include high school transcripts.
• Each transcript must be scanned as a single PDF document and MUST include the grading key.

Other Requirements

Successful applicants meet and often exceed the admissions and pre-requisite requirements:

• Typically have relevant, independent, multi-month (wet or dry) laboratory research experience;
• Typically have excellent, detailed reference letters with assessment of applicant's research expertise and aptitude by direct research supervisors, not just from course instructors;
• Often have won awards and/or published journal articles and/or presented posters or platform presentations and/or attended professional meetings and/or volunteered for science-related events (outreach, etc.)

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2025 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

• Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Master of Science in Medical Genetics (MSc)

SEPTEMBER INTAKE - MSc and PhD Applicants:

Supervisor commitment is not required by the application deadline, however applicants are encouraged to contact potential supervisors early in the application process.

Following the review by the Admissions Committee, applicants who are deemed admissible will be notified by email. Admissible applicants must secure the commitment of a research supervisor before receiving an offer of admission to the UBC Medical Genetics Graduate Program.

JANUARY INTAKE – PhD Applicants Only

Citizenship Verification

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Research Information

Research highlights.

See Medical Genetics website for up-to-date articles featuring faculty research.

Research Focus

Research in the Department of Medical Genetics covers the study of human genetics with areas of focus in mammalian development, regulation of gene expression, genetic diseases due to single gene or complex inheritance, birth defects, reproduction, cancer, immunology, genomics, bioinformatics, ethics and population health. Research Areas of Expertise: - Cancer Genetics & Genomics - Clinical Genetics, Genetic Counselling, Ethics & Policy - Developmental Genetics & Birth Defects - DNA Repair & Genome Stability - Epigenetics, Epigenomics & Gene Regulation - Genetic Epidemiology & Population Genetics - Genomics & Bioinformatics - Immunogenetics - Neuroscience & Neurodegenerative Disease Genetics - Pharmacogenomics - Proteomics - Stem Cells & Gene Therapy

For Medical Genetics faculty research profiles, see: Faculty Research Summaries .

Program Components

Medical Genetics Rotation Program

MSc and PhD applicants who have applied for the September-start, and who are highest ranked by the Medical Genetics Admissions Committee, will be offered the opportunity to join the Medical Genetics Rotation Program . The four top-ranked applicants offered these positions will also receive one-year Rotation Program Awards. Rotation Program students rotate through three different laboratories before choosing a final, thesis lab. Rotations are for nine-weeks each, from September to April. The Rotation Program is open to Canadians, Permanent Residents of Canada, and international applicants.

Medical Genetics Graduate Program students are encouraged to volunteer their leadership skills and talents to science-related departmental and community events and projects. There are many volunteer opportunities available through the University, at students’ research facilities, and in the local community. The Departmental student organization, the Medical Genetics Graduate Student Society (MGGSA), plans annual departmental events such as September Welcome and Research Day as well as on-going academic and social events.

Research Facilities

Medical Genetics graduate student training takes place at multiple state-of-the-art facilities, representing a diverse collection of training environments. These include several centres on the UBC Point Grey Campus (e.g. Life Sciences Centre, Brain Research Centre, Michael Smith Laboratories) and off-campus (e.g Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics,Terry Fox Laboratory at the BC Cancer Agency). Available research services and facilities include: animal modeling, biobanking, bioanalyzer, bioinformatics, DNA sequencing, flow cytometry, genotyping and gene expression, histology and imaging, transgenic facility, support to perform biostatistics, clinical trials, data management and access to health research and evaluation services.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial Support

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

Stipend Amount and Duration

The recommended minimum yearly stipend for a full time Medical Genetics MSc thesis-based graduate student (Canadian and international) is $26,500.

The student pays tuition from their stipend (the amount of tuition depends on whether the student is domestic or international as well as time spent in their graduate program). This stipend may come from an independent studentship award and/or from the Research Supervisor's research grant. Admission to the Medical Genetics Graduate Program normally includes a commitment from the Supervisor to ensure that each student is supported to the recommended funding level. Exceptions to this policy may be granted under unusual circumstances. Financial support from personal resources is not acceptable as “funding” for incoming students in the Medical Genetics Graduate Program.

The duration of the annual stipend is normally two years for a MSc student. After the two-year MSc, continued funding is at the discretion of the Supervisor. The Supervisor should inform the student in writing (with a copy to the Medical Genetics Graduate Program office) at least six months prior to the end-date of the student's stipend.

Funding depends both on satisfactory academic and research progress, as determined by the Student’s Advisory Committee, and on the Research Supervisor's continued grant support. Termination of funding for other justifiable reasons must be approved by a majority of the Medical Genetics Graduate Advisory Committee.

University and External Awards

Medical Genetics Graduate Program students receive funding from many sources; not all students will receive the same amount. Graduate students receive a minimum stipend from their supervisor. Additionally, if a student wins an award, their supervisor will top up their stipend.

See the Medical Genetics website for more information about awards available to eligible registered students. Students may also qualify for building-specific and research-specific awards.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Options

The MSc program in Medical Genetics is a research-based, thesis-based program which generally takes two - three years to complete. Graduates find employment in the public and private sector, and also pursue further studies in the field of Medical Genetics. Following is a brief sample of occupations that our graduates are pursuing:

• Genetic Counselling
• Medical Doctor
• Clinical Genetics Technology

Industry / Clinical Careers:

• Molecular Diagnostic Technologist
• Research Associate
• Data Management Coordinator
• Research Program Manager
• Online Marketing Coordinator
• Scientific Sales Representative
• Research and Development Scientist

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Master of Science in Medical Genetics (MSc). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion Rates & Times

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Arbour, Laura (northern and aboriginal health issues as they pertain to genetics)
• Austin, Jehannine (Clinical genetics (except cancer genetics); genetic counseling; genetics services; mental health)
• Birol, Inanc (bioinformatics, computational biology, genomics, transcriptome analysis, next generation sequencing, cancer, Bioinformatics, sequence assembly, transcriptomics, gene regulation networks, high throughput informatics for big data)
• Brooks-Wilson, Angela (Bioinformatics; Clinical oncology; Genetic medicine; Genomics; cancer families; cancer genetics; genetic susceptibility; human genetics; longevity; Super seniors)
• Brown, Carolyn Janet (Bioinformatics; Clinical oncology; Genetic medicine; Genomics; Health counselling; Applied Genetics; Chromosomes: Structure / Organization; DNA methylation; Epigenetic control of gene expression; Gene Regulation and Expression; Genes escaping X-chromosome inactivation; Long non-coding RNAs; X-chromosome inactivation; XIST RNA)
• Brunham, Liam (Medical, health and life sciences; Lipids; Genetics; Pharmacogenomics; Cardiovascular diseases)
• Carleton, Bruce (Pediatrics, clinical pharmacology, outcomes research, drug policy evaluation, health services research, drug safety and adverse drug reactions)
• Conibear, Elizabeth (Other basic medicine and life sciences; Protein trafficking in cell biology; Molecular genetics; Functional genomics; Membranes; Enzymes and Proteins; Vesicle Trafficking; Molecular Genetics; Neurodegenerative diseases; Protein Palmitoylation; Cell Signaling and Cancer)
• Dennis, Jessica (Bioinformatics; Genetic medicine; Administrative health data; Complex Trait Genetics; Electronic health records; Epidemiology; genetic epidemiology; Genetics of Neurological and Psychiatric Diseases; Machine Learning; Mental Health and Psychopathology in Children and Youth; Precision Health; statistical genetics)
• Elliott, Alison (Other health sciences; rare disease; genomics; Congenital Malformations; Skeletal and limb anomalies; Genetic Counselling; Health services implementation science)
• Evgin, Laura
• Friedman, Jan Marshall (Other clinical medicine; Genetic medicine; Genomics; Health counselling; Application of whole genome sequencing to diagnose genetic disease; Birth defects epidemiology; Clinical genomics; Developmental Genetics; Genetics and Heredity; Neurofibromatosis)
• Gibson, William (Genetic medicine; Genetic Diseases; Chromosomes: Structure / Organization; Epigenetics)
• Hayden, Michael (Genetic medicine; Health counselling; Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Diabetes; Disease progression; Drug development; Gene Therapy; Genetic Diseases; Huntington disease; Neurodegenerative diseases; Neurodegenerative disorders)
• Hieter, Philip (Molecular biology of eukaryotic chromosome transmission )
• Holt, Robert (Immunogenetics, Metagenomics - Infectious agents in Cancer, Cancer Genomes, Neurobiology, DNA Sequencing)
• Hoodless, Pamela (Computational cell biology; Cancer; Genomics; Medical and biomedical engineering; Nucleic acids studies; Developmental Genetics; Embryology; Embryonic Development; Epigenetics; Heart Valve / Valvular Diseases; Heart valve formation; Liver; Liver development; Stem Cells and Organogenesis; transcriptional regulation)
• Huntsman, David (hereditary cancer, molecular pathology, cancer biomarkers, Pancreas centre)
• Jefferies, Wilfred Arthur (Iron transport molecules)
• Jiang, Xiaoyan (Cancer drug development and therapeutics)
• Jones, Steven J (Bioinformatics, genome science, mutations, cancer progression)
• Kobor, Michael (Biochemistry; Bioinformatics; Genetic medicine; Genomics; Chromatin Biology; Epigenetics; molecular biology; Social Epigenetics)
• Lansdorp, Peter (Genetic medicine; Application of single cell Strand-seq in precision medicine; Applied Genetics; cellular aging; Cellular Degeneration; Cellular Division; Complex Trait Genetics; DNA replication, epigenetics and stem cells; Gene Regulation and Expression; Genetic Diseases; Stem Cells and Organogenesis; telomeres; Telomeres, genomic instability, aging and cancer)
• Leavitt, Blair (Genetic medicine; Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Alzheimer's disease; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis; Ataxia; Dementia; Experimental Therapeutics; Frontotemporal Dementia; Gene regulation; Gene Silencing and Gene Editing; Gene Therapy; Huntington disease; Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells; Medical Genetics; Mouse models of disease; Neurodegenerative diseases; Neurogenetics)
• Lefebvre, Louis (Genetic medicine; Health counselling; Developmental Genetics; developmental epigenetics; Embryonic Development; Gene Regulation and Expression; genomic imprinting; genomics; germ cell biology; Molecular Genetics; mouse developmental genetics; placental biology; Transgenic Model)

Sample Thesis Submissions

• Characterization of the transcriptomic response to acute starvation in the C. elegans hypodermis
• Investigating oligodendrocyte dysfunction in Huntington's Disease using oligocortical organoids
• Integrative genomic and exposomic analysis of mental health related behaviours in 5-year-old children
• Characterization of the transcriptomic response to acute starvation in the C. elegans hypodermis : [supplementary material]
• Epigenetic erasure in ectopic primordial germ cells
• Investigating mouse motor activity and learning behavior using quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis to elucidate the genetic underpinnings of developmental coordination disorder (DCD)
• Simulating chromoanagenesis for tool development and testing
• The development of dose-adjusted pharmacogenetic prediction models in pediatric oncology
• Characterization of DPP4⁺ fibroadipogenic progenitors in skeletal muscle
• Dispersed measures of cord blood DNA methylation do not reflect third trimester bisphenol exposure
• Development of a CRISPR gene correction strategy for aniridia employing a minimally humanized mouse embryonic stem cell-based disease model
• Molecular mechanisms of BAP1 mutations in uveal melanoma
• Allele-specific expression differences in the mouse embryonic hindbrain following prenatal alcohol exposure
• Uncovering factors implicated in oncogenic NRAS modification by analyzing large scale functional genomic data sets
• Genetic interactions between cohesin and DNA damage response pathways in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Genetics (PhD)

Further Information

Specialization.

Faculty in Medical Genetics are at the forefront of their fields employing cutting edge genetic, epigenetic, genomic and bioinformatic methodologies to gain insight into diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative and neurological disorders, and other genetic diseases.

Areas of research Include:

• Cancer Genetics & Genomics
• Clinical Genetics, Genetic Counselling and Ethics & Policy
• Developmental Genetics
• DNA Repair & Genome Stability
• Epigenetics, Epigenomics & Gene Regulation
• Genetic Epidemiology & Population Genetics
• Genomics & Bioinformatics
• Immunogenetics
• Neurogenetics & Neurodegenerative Disease Genetics
• Pharmacogenomics
• Stem Cells & Gene Therapy

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Dorothy Lin

The genetics research community at UBC is what prompted me to choose UBC as the school for my graduate studies. When researching the potential supervisors in the Medical Genetics department, I was impressed by the variety of research - from translational science to basic science in a large range of...

Pardis Kazemian

During my undergraduate courses at UBC, I often stumbled upon concepts that were discovered, or technologies that were developed by scientists and geneticists at UBC. During my last undergraduate year, I met my current supervisor in a Medical Genetics course and found that his lab focuses on areas...

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