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• PhD vs MD: What You Need to Know Before Deciding
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Choosing between a PhD and an MD is crucial as it determines your future career. But before making a choice, it’s imperative to understand where the two degrees differ and what each has to offer. 

Have you ever wondered whether a career in research or patient care is the right fit for you? Choosing between a PhD and an MD can significantly shape your professional life. Understanding their differences is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your interests and career goals.

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So, if you’re stuck in choosing between PhD vs MD degrees, come along as we delve into the differences between these two degrees and what to consider before making your decision. This blog post includes everything you need to know!

What Is a PhD?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is a degree awarded to professionals who conduct research in medicine. This title, however, can be awarded not only to medical professionals but also to anyone who conducts research in their chosen field. 

The process develops deep expertise, critical thinking, and advanced research skills, contributing further to enhanced career opportunities for the PhD title owner and new knowledge in the field the research has been conducted in. 

What Is an MD?

The MD, Doctor of Medicine degree, is awarded by medical schools to students seeking to become physicians and specialize in a chosen medical field. It is divided into two phases: theoretical and practical. 

The primary focus of an MD is patient care, emphasizing the practical application of medical knowledge to treat physical and mental health conditions. After earning an MD, graduates must complete residency training in a chosen specialty.

Difference Between PhD and MD

Making the difference between PhD and MD degrees requires a closer look at the educational pathways, training and skills acquired, and career opportunities each degree offers.

Educational Pathways

The educational path for obtaining a PhD degree is purely academic, mixed with research requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Start with an undergraduate degree, typically in a related field.
• Master’s Degree (sometimes optional): Some programs require a master’s degree before entering a PhD program.
• Coursework and Exams: After applying and getting accepted into a PhD program, you begin with 1-2 years of advanced coursework to build specialized knowledge in your field. Passing exams that test your understanding of the field is vital. These are often required before moving on to research.
• Research: Develop a research question or project and get it approved by your advisor and committee. Then, conduct original research, which may often take several years, contributing new knowledge to the field.
• Dissertation: Write a detailed document presenting your research findings and defend your research before a committee of experts.
• Graduation: If successful, earn your PhD and become an expert in your field.

On the contrary, MD candidates go through an educational process that combines both the theoretical and the practical:

• Bachelor’s Degree : Start with an undergraduate degree, often with a focus on pre-medical courses like biology and chemistry.
• Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) : Take and pass the MCAT , a standardized exam required for medical school admission.
• Medical School (4 years):
• Years 1-2: Complete classroom-based courses covering medical sciences like anatomy, pharmacology, and pathology.
• Years 3-4: Engage in clinical rotations in hospitals, working in different specialties like surgery, pediatrics, and internal medicine.
• USMLE Exams : Pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 and Step 2 during medical school.
• Graduation : Earn your MD degree upon completing medical school.

Following graduation, MD’s are required to begin residency training, where they work as doctors under supervision. After residency, they need to pass exams to become board-certified in a chosen specialty.

Training and Skills

The PhD degree equips candidates with a diverse range of skills that stem from years of knowledge acquisition, research, and writing experience. The most critical skills PhD owners have include:

Research Skills

• Learn how to design, conduct, and analyze research projects
• Develop expertise in research methods and tools specific to your field

Critical Thinking

• Sharpen the ability to evaluate theories, data, and research findings
• Learn to identify gaps in existing knowledge and formulate new questions

Problem-Solving

• Tackle complex problems through independent research
• Develop innovative solutions and contribute new insights to your field

Writing and Communication

• Improve academic writing skills, especially for writing research papers and your dissertation
• Learn to present complex ideas clearly, both in writing and orally

Teaching and Mentoring

• Gain experience teaching undergraduate students and mentoring junior researchers

The MD degree, on the other hand, provides a wide range of strengths that extend beyond soft skills, equipping candidates with advanced medical prowess that aids in effective patient care. The list includes: 

Medical Knowledge

• Learn in-depth about human anatomy, physiology, diseases, and treatments
• Understand the science behind various medical conditions and how to treat them

Clinical Skills

• Develop hands-on skills like taking patient histories, performing physical exams, and conducting medical procedures
• Learn how to diagnose illnesses, interpret lab results, and create treatment plans

Patient Care

• Enhance communication skills for interacting with patients and their families
• Learn how to provide compassionate, patient-centered care
• Work closely with other healthcare professionals, like nurses and specialists, to provide coordinated care

Professionalism and Ethics

• Understand the ethical principles of medicine, including patient confidentiality and informed consent
• Develop a strong sense of responsibility and professionalism in all interactions

Career Opportunities

The career outlook for PhD individuals is vast. From academic settings to research, here are some potential careers for PhD graduates:

• Academic Professor: Teach and conduct research at universities, mentoring students and contributing to academic knowledge.
• Research Scientist: Work in laboratories (universities, government, or private companies) conducting experiments and studies to advance knowledge in your field
• Consultant: Provide expert advice to businesses, government agencies, or non-profits, using your deep knowledge to solve complex problems
• Data Scientist: Analyze large data sets to identify trends and insights, often working in tech, finance, or healthcare
• Science Communicator: Write, speak, or create content to explain complex scientific concepts to the public, working in media, museums, or education

Potential careers for MD graduates include:

• Primary Care Physician: Provide general medical care, including diagnosing and treating common illnesses, and managing overall patient health
• Surgeon : Perform operations to treat injuries, diseases, or deformities, specializing in areas like orthopedics, neurosurgery, or cardiac surgery
• Medical Researcher: Conduct research to develop new treatments, medications, or medical technologies, often working in hospitals, universities, or pharmaceutical companies
• Hospital Administrator: Manage hospital operations, overseeing staff, budgets, and policies to ensure efficient and effective patient care
• Public Health Official: Work to improve community health through policy, education, and disease prevention programs, often within government or non-profits

The salary expectations for both PhD and MD graduates are relatively high, with some careers offering better salaries than others. 

Academic professors, for example, can expect an annual salary of $84,340 by working in public and private universities and colleges or professional schools. Medical scientists, currently in demand and with an expected growth in employment by 10%, gain $100,890 yearly income. 

The demand for data scientists, on the other hand, is significantly higher than most careers, with 35% estimated growth , and with a salary that reaches $108,000 every year. 

MD graduates typically have higher salaries, resulting from the high-risk critical nature of their work in dealing with patients. The salary for surgeons of any specialty is up to $343,900 annually, which surpasses many other careers. Hospital administrators’ salaries are also high, with a $272,355 median salary per year.

In general, the demand for physicians and surgeons is anticipated to grow by 3% in the following decade. 

Considerations for Choosing Between a PhD and MD

Aside from the differences between PhD vs. MD degrees, one must consider their personal interests and goals before taking the next step. Career aspirations and lifestyle choices also should factor in when making the ultimate decision. 

Personal Interests and Goals

Choosing between a PhD and an MD depends on your personal interests and career goals. If you’re passionate about research, discovery, and contributing new knowledge, a PhD may be the right path. 

If you’re driven by a desire to directly help patients, diagnose, and treat illnesses, an MD aligns better. Both require dedication, but the choice hinges on whether you prefer research or clinical practice.

Career Aspirations

Career aspirations significantly influence whether a PhD or MD is the better fit. A PhD is ideal for those aiming for careers in academia, research, or specialized industry roles, where deep expertise and innovation are key. 

An MD suits those aspiring to practice medicine, provide patient care, or work in clinical settings. Each degree supports distinct professional paths—research for PhDs, and patient care for MDs.

Work-Life Balance and Lifestyle

Work-life balance and lifestyle differ between a PhD and an MD. PhD careers, especially in academia or research, often offer more flexible hours, allowing for better work-life balance. MDs, particularly in clinical roles, may face long, irregular hours, especially during residency and early practice, leading to more demanding lifestyles. 

However, MDs often experience high job satisfaction from direct patient care, despite the rigorous schedule.

Understanding the differences between a PhD vs. MD proves to be vital for any student. From the educational path each degree requires to the skills acquired and the careers offered, exploring their differences can aid in making the right choice for your future.

Reflect on your personal interests and career goals to determine which path aligns best with your aspirations. Whether you want to contribute to academic knowledge or provide patient care, each degree has its importance and can prepare you for success!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Is it possible to combine a phd with an md, and if so, how.

Yes, combining a PhD with an MD is possible through MD/PhD programs, which integrate medical training with research-focused PhD studies. This path allows for a career that blends clinical practice with advanced research.

Can you pursue a PhD after earning an MD?

Yes, you can pursue a PhD after earning an MD. Many MDs choose to return to academia to conduct research, often focusing on areas where their clinical experience enhances their scientific work.

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“I was confident going into AUA because of their leadership. It was clear to me from the beginning that the staff and administration from top to bottom were pioneers and leaders in medical education. They showed a great deal of commitment by investing in constructing a brand new state of the art campus while I was there. Although the new campus opened shortly after I left the island, it was encouraging to watch its construction. It let us know that AUA was committed to investing back into its students, and are here to stay for years to come.”

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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.

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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 .

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Admissions: Applying to the MD-PhD Program

We seek applicants who are committed to pursuing a career as a physician-scientists. We value students who are curious, creative, compassionate, and resilient, and bring a diverse range of personal experiences, viewpoints, and academic interests to our collaborative and innovative community.

Candidates must submit their application to the Yale School of Medicine which includes the AMCAS and the Yale Secondary Applications and indicate their interest in being considered for the MD-PhD Program. All applications are holistically reviewed to find candidates whose academic and personal experiences indicate exceptional potential and a commitment to pursue MD and PhD training at Yale. Among the things we look for in a candidate's application are:

• Significant research experience(s) with evidence of increasing independence, responsibility, and depth of contributions
• Outstanding letters of recommendation, including those from research mentors who can reflect upon your potential for success as a physician-scientist
• Personal statements that allow us to understand your reasons for training as a physician-scientist
• Activities that reflect your curiosity, compassion, maturity, leadership, grit
• Broad academic excellence, not reflected solely in MCAT scores or GPA

Admissions Timeline

Invitations for interview will be sent via email from September to January. All interviews are virtual and will be scheduled over a two-day period. Candidates have interviews with members of both the MD and MD-PhD Interviewing subcommittees, non-evaluative meetings with MD-PhD program faculty and students, and informational sessions with the program director and current students. Social events and student buddies will help you learn more about the MD-PhD community at Yale and about living in New Haven. As part of the invitation to interview, we will provide a survey link that allows you to request informal meetings with up to five Yale faculty whose research is of interest to you. These informal discussions are not part of the admissions evaluation but are made available to you so that you can get a more complete picture of what Yale has to offer. Applicants who are not invited to interview for the MD-PhD Program will be offered the option to have their application considered for MD-only admission.

Special Instructions for Applicants Interested in “non-traditional” PhD programs

MD-PhD applicants who plan to pursue their PhD in Anthropology, Economics, History of Science & Medicine, Philosophy, Religious Studies or Sociology must submit applications to both the MD-PhD program and to the PhD program. (A link to the PhD program application will be sent to such students when their complete MD-PhD program application is received.) Interview invitations will be made after both applications have been reviewed. Materials required to support the PhD program application are detailed below. Students interested in these programs are encouraged to contact the MD-PhD program to indicate their interest and to obtain the most up-to-date information about specific PhD program requirements. Please note: the completed MD-PhD application must be received by October 15th and the PhD application completed by November 1st to allow full review and consideration for interview.

Requested additional materials:

• Anthropology
• History of Science and Medicine
• Religious Studies
• Please upload a current resume/CV.
• Applicants to Economics (Only) – GRE Test Scores required

Important information to keep in mind:

• The " personal statement of academic purpose " is carefully evaluated by PhD program faculty; when requested, it should be prepared with this audience in mind. This document should be a succinct statement of 500-1,000 words explaining why you are applying to Yale for graduate study, describing your past research, your preparation for the intended field of study, your academic plans for graduate study at Yale (e.g. your proposed research project), and your subsequent career objectives. Explain how the faculty, research, and resources at Yale would contribute to your future goals.
• You may submit a letter of recommendation from the same individual as part of both the AMCAS and GSAS applications; we encourage you to ask the recommenders most capable of speaking to your preparation for the PhD program of study to submit their letters to both AMCAS and GSAS. Once you identify a recommender in the GSAS Admissions Portal, they will receive an email providing instructions and access information.
• No application fee to GSAS will be required to submit these additional materials.
• The MCAT will be accepted in lieu of the GRE except for candidates to Economics.

Gap years are not necessary for applicants . Nationally, >75% of MD-PhD students have taken at least one gap year after college 1 . Gap years can help applicants gain research or clinical experience necessary for deciding whether dual-degree training is right for them. Or they can provide time to travel, work, or take the MCAT and apply. But gap years per se are not necessary to be admitted to MD-PhD programs! The distribution of gap years taken by Yale MD-PhD applicants, interviewed or accepted candidates, and matriculated students for 2019-2023 shows a median “gap” of 2 years for interviewed, accepted, and matriculated applicants But 18% of our current students joined the program immediately after graduating from college.

Diversity and inclusion are central to our mission; our goal is to train students with a wide range of backgrounds, personal identities, and research interests to become physician-scientists. MD-PhD students who matriculated in the past five years completed their undergraduate degrees at accredited four-year institutions all over the United States and territories, and include students who have attended community colleges, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and small, non-research-intensive colleges. Demographics of current students, as self-identified in their AMCAS medical school applications, are shown below. We encourage individuals with disabilities or who may be from economically, socially, culturally and/or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds to apply to our Program. Yale is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive environment to individuals with disabilities by ensuring that appropriate academic and technical accommodations are available to students. Please contact the MD-PhD Office and Student Accessibility Services for further information. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, refugees, asylees, DACA recipients and international students are all eligible to apply for admission to the MD-PhD Program.

1 Brass LF, Fitzsimonds RM, Akabas MH. Gaps between college and starting an MD-PhD program are adding years to physician-scientist training time. JCI Insight. 2021;e156168 [ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

Yale's MD-PhD Program grants full consideration to students who plan to pursue a PhD program in departments that are part of the Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS) , the School of Public Health (YSPH) , School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) , and some departments of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS ). Please click on the links for more information on specific PhD programs. Current students are pursuing their PhD training in the following programs and departments.

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Doctoral studies are carried out by science postgraduates, medical students combining clinical training with the PhD, and clinically qualified doctors undertaking scientific training. The research covers the whole spectrum of medical science from basic biology to clinical therapies.

Along with the specific research training provided in the laboratory in which they work, students receive further training within the department in the form of postgraduate workshops concentrating on research techniques, research seminars both on the Addenbrooke's site and elsewhere in the University, and postgraduate student seminars dealing with generic skills such as intellectual property rights, writing a thesis or paper, and entrepreneurship.

Candidates wishing to take a shorter course of research and write a thesis for the master's after one year may apply for the MPhil in Medical Sciences.

Learning Outcomes

Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil will be required to satisfy their potential supervisor, Head of Department and the Faculty Degree Committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

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3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of medicine, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:.

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2025

Michaelmas 2025, easter 2026, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.

Similar Courses

• MD (Doctor of Medicine) MD
• Medical Science (Medicine) MPhil
• Medical Genetics PhD
• Medical Science (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) MPhil
• Biological Science (Veterinary Medicine) by thesis MPhil

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• Medical Education

Medicine MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury and London, Hampstead (Royal Free Hospital)

A full or part-time research degree at the UCL Division of Medicine offers broad research training opportunities under the supervision of academics who are world experts in their fields. Collaborative interactions between scientists, clinicians and healthcare industries at national and international levels provide our students with excellent networking opportunities and career prospects.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

• Entry requirements

A first or an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate subject, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard or a recognised taught Master’s degree.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 3

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

The multidisciplinary Division of Medicine combines excellent facilities with world-leading scientific and clinical expertise directed towards better understanding and treatment of human disease. 

Research students benefit from a training environment that fosters collaboration across the interface between basic science, clinical practice within our associated hospitals, and the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

During your research degree, you will be able to select training courses to develop a wide variety of transferable research, teaching, and leadership skills. There will also be opportunities to put these skills into practice in laboratory and teaching environments. We aim to enhance not only your research project, but also your communication skills and career prospects. 

You will receive regular guidance and support from your project supervisors and from an independent thesis committee across your full registration period.

Who this course is for

We aim to recruit the best graduates in science and medicine from across the world with a genuine passion and talent for biomedical research.

What this course will give you

This programme offers you the following benefits and opportunities.

• You join the multidisciplinary Division of Medicine, which trains and inspires the next generation of leading biomedical scientists and clinicians.
• An excellent educational experience and unrivalled opportunities for interdisciplinary research, networking, career development and employment across the biomedical and healthcare sectors.
• Networking and career opportunities from our academics' international collaborative links with academic and commercial organisations.
• A unique springboard for ambitious clinicians and scientists.

The foundation of your career

Through close collaborations between scientists and clinicians in a wide range of clinical disciplines, a research degree in the Division of Medicine provides a unique springboard for ambitious clinicians and scientists. Our alumni have progressed to senior leadership positions in many areas of academia, the health services and industry.

Employability

A PhD from the UCL Division of Medicine is internationally recognised as a high achievement. Our graduates are expected to be independent thinkers that bring rigorous expertise to solving complex problems.

Recent graduates have taken up clinical, academic, postdoctoral, and scientific advisory positions in the public and private sectors, nationally and internationally.

The Division runs several seminar programmes that attract high-profile national and international external speakers, as well as a student-led 'Presenting Outstanding Papers' group/seminar series.

There is also an annual day retreat away from the university, where we discuss ideas and hear presentations from staff and students across the entire Division.

Students are encouraged to present their results at a major national or international conference at least once during their project period.

Our academics have numerous national and international collaborative links with academic and commercial organisations. These provide students with broad opportunities for networking and career development.

Teaching and learning

Most of your research will be carried out independently with guidance provided by your supervisory team and Thesis Committee. There will also be a series of training requirements that you will need to complete in the early stages of the programme. Your supervisory team will provide guidance on appropriate training requirements relevant to your proposed area of research.

Your first milestone will be to upgrade from MPhil to the PhD degree. For this, you will submit and present a report (upgrade viva). You will also need to give an oral presentation for which all members of the Division will be invited to attend. In your final year, you submit a thesis covering your research and discuss this at a formal interview known as a viva examination.

Most of your time will be spent conducting independent research, alongside regular meetings with your supervisory team and Thesis Committee, and completing your training requirements. We also encourage you to attend relevant research events at UCL and elsewhere.

Research areas and structure

The biomedical disciplines represented within the research departments and institutes of the UCL Division of Medicine include:

• Advanced Biomedical Imaging
• Amyloidosis
• Clinical Kidney Disease
• Computational Medicine
• Dialysis and Physiology
• Drug Design
• Experimental Inflammation
• Experimental Nephrology
• Fibrosis and Tissue Repair
• Genetics and Genomics
• Human Health and Performance
• Immunosenescense and Ageing
• Intensive Care Medicine
• Liver and Pancreaticobiliary Cancer
• Liver tissue engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Metabolism and Inflammation
• Nuclear Medicine
• Obesity and Metabolism
• Radiochemistry
• Regenerative Medicine
• Respiratory Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Transplantation
• Urological Biology

Research environment

Our world-class undergraduate and postgraduate courses attract the best students from all over the world and train the next generation of basic and clinical scientists and practitioners. Over 200 postgraduate students are enrolled on our PhD programme at any given time.

The UCL Division of Medicine forms one of the most sizeable concentrations of biomedical scientists in Europe in one of the world's leading universities. Our aims are:

• To educate, train, and inspire the next generation of scientists and clinicians.
• To be at the international forefront of biomedical research from lab bench to bedside.
• To attract, retain and develop the most gifted biomedical researchers and teachers at all levels.
• To develop and deliver outstanding patient care together with UCL’s partner hospitals.

Our research aims to understand the basis of disease, and to develop better diagnostics and treatments for diseases with an emphasis on experimental medicine. In the REF 2021 Clinical Medicine unit of assessment, we are ranked first in the UK for our impact and research environment.

Our clinical mission is to provide the highest quality medical care, as practitioners of medicine and leaders of the NHS, and to work in partnership with patients to fulfil our research and teaching missions. The Division’s clinical academics are active as physicians in partner hospitals, with programmes of national and international standing in major medical specialities.

The full-time registration period for a PhD is three years. 

You initially register for an MPhil. In your first few months, you discuss and agree a deliverable plan and timeline for your research project with your supervisors. This plan can be revised as new results are obtained.

You will be eligible to upgrade to PhD registration in year two (at around 12-18 months). The assessment is a written report and oral exam following an upgrade presentation. You will also present your work to your group and to the Division when you upgrade from MPhil to PhD registration in year two.

After three years, you can apply for 'completing research status' if you have completed your research and you are focused on writing your thesis.

The part-time registration period for a PhD is five years.

You are initially registered for an MPhil. In your first few months, you discuss and agree a deliverable plan and timeline for your research project with your supervisors. This plan can be revised as new results are obtained.

You are eligible to upgrade to PhD registration in years two to three (at around 15-30 months). The assessment is a written report and oral exam following an upgrade presentation. You also present your work to your group and to the Division during the upgrade process.

After five years, you can apply for 'completing research status' if you have completed your research and you are focused on writing your thesis.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Your research degree may be subject to an Additional Fee Element (AFE). The AFE (also known as bench fees) is an additional cost, incurred by yourself or your sponsor. It is levied to cover the costs related to consumables, equipment and materials etc. which are not included in the tuition fee. As each research project is unique, the AFE is calculated on an individual basis and is determined by your academic supervisor.

You should discuss finding support for these costs with your proposed primary supervisor.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

Research council and charity studentships and fellowships are occasionally available for MPhil/PhD students. Opportunities may also exist for studentships funded via the UCL Division of Medicine, the Faculty of Medical Sciences, and UCL doctoral training programmes. These are usually advertised on major medical research funding sites and findaphd.com when they become available.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Students are advised to apply at least 2 months before their proposed start date. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

You should identify and contact potential supervisors and agree on a project before making your application. While there is often some flexibility, deadlines and start dates may be dictated by funding arrangements, so check with the department, academic unit or funder to see if you need to consider these when preparing your application. Applicants who are not restricted by external funding terms and conditions (e.g. self-funding) may start on any of the designated start dates available during the academic year.

Your references must be from individuals unconnected to your proposed supervisory team.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Division of Medicine

[email protected]

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Message From the Chair

A message from Ali G. Gharavi, MD, Chair for the Department of Medicine at CUIMC.

Residencies, Fellowships & Training

A list of residencies, fellowships, and training programs of Columbia University Department of Medicine. 

• Patient Care
• Medicine CME

Department of Medicine

3-year phd-to-md program.

We seek to recruit exceptional PhD scientists in the biological sciences for a 3-year curriculum in the Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons leading to the MD degree, in preparation for a career in biomedical investigation.

Success in basic science often follows the cliché that one learns more and more about less and less. Thus PhD training is notable for its narrow focus. However, for committed scientists who want to make an impact on humanity, a medical education is an ideal companion to one in basic science as it combines breadth and depth like no individual discipline in biology. Humans remain the best-studied organisms we have, the ultimate “model organism,” with phenotypes exquisitely characterized by millennia of study through the unique interaction of two classes of sentient beings, physicians and patients. Moreover, learning to recognize and treat disease teaches that most cardinal attribute of a successful scientist: the capacity to ask important questions. Standard MD-PhD programs (MST programs) share this aspiration to nurture biomedical investigators but less than 50% of MST graduates remain in research with a much smaller percentage contributing as serious investigators. We are looking for candidates who were drawn initially to science, have a potential for research already tested and proven by stellar performance in a PhD program, and are excited by their discoveries in basic research, but who now feel compelled to use their science most directly for the betterment of mankind.

Candidate Qualifications

In addition to existing prerequisites and qualifications for admission to the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons (See  Application Requirements ), applicants should have

• A PhD in one of the biological or related sciences from an accredited US or Canadian school
• An intention to pursue biomedical research as a physician scientist
• A record supporting exceptional scientific promise
• US citizenship or permanent resident status

The 3-year program principally aims to train future physician scientists planning careers in cognitive medical specialties such as internal medicine, pediatrics, neurology, psychiatry and pathology.  

Curriculum and Timeline

The usual 4-year curriculum of the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons (See  Academics ) is modified to the following 3-year curriculum for the PhD-to-MD Program:          

• Preclinical courses: 18 Months
• Major clinical year (MCY): 12 Months
• Subinternship and electives: 6 Months

See Detailed Graphic

The scholarly project requirement is waived. Students will apply for residency in the middle of the MCY. Of note, the medical training for the PhD-to-MD Program is identical to the medical training for our standard MD/PhD (MST) program.  

Standard tuition for each of the 3 years. Comprehensive information on financial aid opportunities is available (see  Tuition and Expenses ).

Application Process, Selection Criteria, Interview Day

Applicants will be evaluated by the same criteria applied to all candidates for admission, and will be reviewed and selected by the existing Admissions Committee. An additional committee representing the PhD-to-MD program will evaluate, interview and recommend candidates to the Admissions Committee. This supplemental committee will focus on the scientific achievement, research promise and commitment of the applicant to a career as a physician-scientist. Applicants to the PhD-to-MD degree program invited to interview will be asked to submit their curriculum vitae and a one-page research proposal.  

Please see the  3-year FAQs , or contact the admissions office at  [email protected] .

Please note that Internet Explorer is incompatible with this site.

We recommend upgrading to the latest Microsoft Edge , Google Chrome , or Firefox .

• Patient Care

MCOM Graduate & Postdoctoral Affairs

Quick links, graduate & postdoctoral affairs, phd admissions.

PhD applicants are only considered for Fall and cannot apply to any other term. Details about admission requirements, deadlines, and the application process can be found on this page.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us at 813-974-2836 or [email protected] .

Requirements

Minimum admission requirements can be found in the Graduate Catalog at the link below. 

Graduate Catalog

Please review the "Application Process" section of this page for details about what documents to submit. 

GRE Scores are NOT required for admission. 

Admissions decision factors.

Students seeking a PhD in Medical Sciences from the University of South Florida are selected by an admissions committee that considers the overall qualities of the applicant. Areas of consideration include academic achievement, research experience and interests, and letters of recommendation. All selected candidates will be required to have personal interviews with members of the PhD admissions committee.

The PhD Program typically receives more than 100 applications each year, and fewer than 30% of applicants are admitted.

The undergraduate GPA of the middle 50% of students admitted for Fall 2023 was 3.4-3.78. 

Deadlines & Decision Timeline

Application.

The Medical Sciences PhD Program priority deadline is December 1. Students should apply and submit all required documents (including letters of recommendation) by this date for the best chance of consideration. Our final application deadline is February 15. 

University application deadlines can be found in the Graduate Catalog.

Application Deadlines

Well-qualified applicants will be invited to participate in interviews with faculty members prior to final admissions decisions being made. An interview is required to be eligible for admission into the program and invitations to participate in interviews are sent between mid-December and mid-March. For Fall 2024 admission, we intend to host three rounds of virtual interviews on the dates outlined below: 

January 8-11 February 12-15 February 26-29

During interview weeks, interviewees are typically invited to a virtual program overview on Monday evening, then select from one of six available interview times (Tuesday morning or afternoon, Wednesday morning or afternoon, Thursday morning or afternoon). This schedule is subject to change, but additional details will be communicated to selected applicants. 

Review & Notification

Students who participate in an interview are typically notified of the committee's admission's decision within 7-10 days of interviewing. Admitted students will be invited to visit campus; our visit weekends are currently scheduled for: 

February 8-10 March 7-9 March 28-30

Admitted students have until April 15 to notify the PhD office if they will attend USF. 

Application Process

• Submit an online application . Select the Medical Sciences program. 
• Pay the $30 application fee . You will be prompted to pay as soon as you submit your application. If you are unable to pay when you submit, you can do so within 30 days by logging into your OASIS account at my.usf.edu . 
• Submit transcripts.  To upload documents to your application, log into the application website , then navigate to My Workspace > My Documents. Unofficial copies can be uploaded directly to your application and can be used for our admissions review. If you are offered admission, you will be required to submit official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions you have attended (undergraduate and graduate).
• Submit supplemental information .** 
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume 
• Research background
• Reasons for selecting the Morsani College of Medicine to pursue a PhD
• Future career goals following graduation from the Medical Sciences PhD program
• Recommendations should come from faculty or other professionals familiar with applicant's academic performance and/or research potential 

**If you are applying to more than one program at USF, it is imperative that your supplemental information clearly indicate that it should be used for your application to the Medical Sciences PhD Program. This is especially important for letters of recommendation. Failure to appropriately indicate the PhD program may prevent your application from being reviewed.

GRE scores are no longer required. 

Additional requirements for international students.

In addition to the requirements listed above, international students must also submit the documents listed below. Unofficial copies can be used for admissions review, but final admission will not be granted until official documents are received and processed by the Office of Admissions.

• World Education Services
• Josef Silny & Associates, Inc.
• Academic Evaluation Services
• Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
• A copy of the original document that was evaluated and an English translation (if applicable) must be included with the evaluation.

If you cannot provide a foreign credential evaluation when you apply, you may submit the documents outlined below and we can conduct a preliminary review based on this information. Documents should be uploaded to the online portal within the application. (Please note, it is still best to submit a course-by-course foreign credential evaluation if you are able to).

• Unofficial college transcript (must be in English)
• You may use a free online resource such as Scholaro or WES
• Must be your cumulative undergraduate GPA

Formal admission to the university will not be granted until an official course-by-course foreign credential evaluation is provided, but this can be submitted after an applicant is interviewed if necessary.

• Proof of English language proficiency .

If you have any questions about our Medical Sciences PhD Program, how to apply, or the status of your application, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 813-974-2836 or [email protected] .

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Fourth-Year PhD Student Luke Vass Receives NIH Award for Research Focused on Treating Leukemia

September 9, 2024 by [email protected]

Luke Vass, fourth-year PhD student

Luke Vass, a fourth-year PhD student in the Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program co-advised by Thomas Loughran, Jr., MD, and Todd Fox, PhD, has been selected for a NIH F99/K00 Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Transition Award. This award funds outstanding graduate students in the last years of their doctoral program and up to four years of their postdoctoral training.

The project, titled “Ceramide and Cell Metabolism: Defining the Role of Sphingolipids in Modulating Mitochondrial Bioenergetics of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia,” focuses on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), a currently incurable cancer that can affect the blood, spleen, bone marrow, and lymph nodes.

Specifically, Luke studies sphingolipids, a class of fat molecules that have shown promise as a treatment for CLL in both laboratory conditions and living organisms. In the first phase of the award, Luke will study the mechanisms that allow a specific class of sphingolipids known as gangliosides to kill CLL cells. In the second, he will explore the therapeutic potential of these molecules.

Luke joins a cohort of six Cancer Center trainees who have received this prestigious award since it was established.

Filed Under: Education , Research

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What It's Like to Do an MD-PhD Program

New section.

Two medical students answer questions about what it's like to do an MD-PhD program.

Elias (Eli) Wisdom

Undergraduate:   Pacific University, Oregon Major:   BS, Biology Medical school:  Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Anticipated Graduation Year:  2028 Bio: Eli Wisdom is an MD-PhD student at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) studying the molecular mechanisms of Parkinson’s Disease. He grew up in the small rural town of La Grande, Oregon, where he gained a deep appreciation for community and service and a fascination with the natural world. At Pacific University, he completed his degree in Biology while also playing varsity baseball. After graduating, he was as an Associate in Neuroscience at Yale School of Medicine for two years before starting an MD-PhD program. Outside of school, he enjoys competing in triathlons, camping, and spending time with family.

Sreya Sanyal

Undergraduate:  New Jersey Institute of Technology        Major:  Biology & History Double Major Medical school:   Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Anticipated Graduation Year:  2031 Bio: Sreya Sanyal is a MD-PhD student at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Princeton University. She is Bengali, and she aspires to become a laboratory principal investigator in the field of oncology. Outside of academia, she enjoys singing, cooking, going to museums, and lifting at the gym.  

Why did you decide to pursue an MD-PhD program?

Eli:  As an undergraduate student, I found my first biomedical research experience to be quite thrilling, and seriously considered pursuing a career in research. Medical school had surfaced as an opportunity, too, as I was deeply passionate about serving others and caring for the sick, but I felt that basic science research was the backbone of advancing clinical care. I first learned about combined MD-PhD programs during my senior year when I was taking part in a summer research program at another academic institute. I learned that in a dual-degree program, I could become rigorously trained as a research scientist and as a physician — and could do both in my future career. To learn more, I reached out to a few physician-scientists who shared how much they loved their careers. In the clinic, their patients and associated medical problems provided new ideas for exploration in the laboratory. And in the laboratory, the insights they gained could inform the way they treated their patients. Sreya:  I’ve wanted to become an oncologist ever since I was 11 and my mother died from gastric cancer. When I shadowed hematologist oncologists in academic settings, I became more interested in their work in clinical trials and research. Entering college, I explored translational research through my undergraduate biomedical engineering lab experiences. As I met more people in the field of drug development and oncology, I realized that I wanted to be at the cutting edge of this work, but I still had the desire to see patients. Through a lot of soul searching and luck, I was able to embark on a career in medical research by pursuing an MD-PhD. Using my training as a physician-scientist, I plan to establish my own lab or work in other ways to improve translational research in the oncological space.

What kinds of career options does the MD-PhD program give you?

Eli:   From my experience, rigorous training in medicine and scientific research prepares you best for a career in academic medicine. This often means working at a large teaching hospital, where you have an opportunity to conduct independent scientific research, care for patients, and teach students. While it can differ depending on the medical specialty or the individual, a typical physician-scientist may spend 80% of their time conducting research and 20% caring for patients.  However, there are many other career paths available to MD-PhD graduates. Students may also pursue careers working for private research organizations, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, or government agencies.  Sreya:  In my experience as an MD-PhD student interested in oncology, I have a wide array of career options to explore. As a clinician-scientist, I can lead research teams and conduct studies in cancer biology, treatment approaches, and translational medicine. In these roles, I can also mentor students interested in my field, allowing me to advance scientific knowledge while shaping the next generation of researchers. Alternatively, I could directly impact patients' lives by increasing my clinical time spent as an oncologist, developing personalized treatment plans, and contributing to clinical trials. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries also present exciting opportunities for me where I would be able to work on drug development, clinical research, or medical affairs, playing an essential role in bringing innovative therapies to market. With my combined medical and research expertise, I am well-equipped to make a meaningful difference in oncology through various rewarding career paths.

What type of research experience did you have before entering the program?

Eli: I attended a liberal arts college where students engaged in scientific research through 2- to 4-month long classes, which were combined lecture and laboratory experiences. Building on excitement from these courses, I pursued a summer research internship at a large biomedical research institute the summer prior to my senior year. I loved this initial exposure to working in a high-powered scientific research center. From working in state-of-the-art reach laboratories, to solving scientific problems in creative ways, and watching physicians bounce between research and patient care — I was hooked.  Sreya:  Before starting my current program, I had two significant research experiences. First, I worked in a lab that focused on creating materials for drug delivery in the field of biomedical engineering. We used special gels to deliver important substances to specific parts of the body, which had significant effects on the surrounding tissues, such as promoting blood vessel growth and blocking certain enzymes. I spent about ten hours a week for three years in this lab and contributed to three published papers.

Secondly, I worked at a research institute where I studied mice that were genetically modified to show signs of anthrax toxin exposure. These modified toxins could be controlled to specifically target tumor cells in the body. I dedicated forty hours a week to this research, and as a result, we have two research papers in progress for publication

How did you prepare to apply to MD-PhD programs?

Eli: Since I had played varsity baseball throughout college (which was impactful training in its own right), I had limited time for research as an undergraduate. So, I decided to pursue an extended research position before applying to MD-PhD programs. After sending several emails to laboratories across the U.S. and applying to many formal postbacc research programs, I took a two-year job as a postgraduate researcher at an academic research institute. During my time working on a project in a laboratory, I also volunteered at the connected hospital. This allowed me to experience what it was like to conduct independent research during the first part of my day, then care for patients in the afternoon. This experience only confirmed my deeply held passions for both medicine and science, but also exposed me to the challenges that both careers entailed. I felt much more confident in my decision to pursue a dual-degree knowing these insights.

What is your favorite part about being an MD-PhD student?

Eli: Thus far, my favorite part of my training has been directly experiencing the intersection of clinical care and research. During the first two years of the MD-PhD, I was mainly focused on medical school courses and preparing for the first board exam. But now, as I am beginning my PhD, I am realizing how medical school has broadened my perspective. When I read research papers or craft a plan to tackle a hypothesis, I feel empowered with the knowledge I learned in my didactic medical school courses. For example, during one of my PhD research rotations, a scientist was having difficulty delivering a therapeutic to the brains of the mice they were studying. Immediately I recalled from my medical school courses how mannitol could be co-infused to transiently open the blood-brain barrier for drug delivery. It could easily be translated to this scenario. Similarly, my experiences with clinic patients have benefited from my MD-PhD training. Often, it can be as simple as the ability to explain to a patient or their family, the exact mechanism of a drug and the reason it could be effective for their ailment. Or, informing them about current basic science efforts in the field or current clinical trials they might be eligible for. As I advance further into my training, I am eager to see how clinical care and laboratory research can become even more intertwined. Sreya:  I am very excited to learn new techniques and approaches to my field of interest. I am also glad that for MD-PhD students in my program, there is a huge emphasis on lifestyle and work/life balance. Many students in my program have become engaged, or married, and are starting families, while many medical students may feel pressure to push these milestones off. Being an MD-PhD student is a huge commitment, so I am especially grateful for all of the personal and professional support my program has to offer.

What do you wish you’d known before you started the program?

Eli: I wish I had known how important it would be to keep an open mind about the research topics that interested me most. I began the MD-PhD program with a rigid focus on a certain topic, thinking that it was the only topic that gave me real excitement. It was also the topic I was most versed in and comfortable in. But during my medical school courses, I was suddenly overwhelmed with several fascinating questions and problems that all seemed equally thrilling. It took a fair bit of mental wrestling with myself to broaden my own research interests and muster up the courage to explore a field I was fascinated with even if I didn’t have the most experience in it quite yet. Luckily, MD-PhD programs are usually quite supportive of students exploring new topics of interest and are eager to see you follow your motivations.

Sreya:  One of the most important aspects to consider for MD-PhD students is the idea that this path is a marathon, not a sprint. There is a lot of temptation to overload on clubs, leadership, research, etc., to keep pace with MD colleagues, but in the long run, an MD-PhD is about the quality and depth of training. It’s important to build healthy habits, strong social relationships, and enjoy activities in a sustainable manner, since MD-PhD students have to do another graduate degree on top of medical training.

What advice would you give a student considering an MD-PhD program?

Eli:  My advice is to accrue as many experiences as you can in medicine and research before applying. Through these, you can understand if pursuing both an MD and a PhD is the best fit for you, or, if you’d be completely satisfied pursuing a career with only training in one discipline. If you can, shadow physicians at both large academic hospitals and private practices. This can teach you if you’d enjoy treating patients daily and give you insight into how your experience will vary based on the setting. Seek out research experiences as early as possible. This may be difficult to procure, but having a longitudinal research experience that encompasses the successes and failures of science will inform you if this should be your future career. If you can, ask for opportunities to experience what it’s like to write a grant or an academic research article. These are not easy to write, yet they encompass a significant amount of time for professional physician-scientists, so, it is important to learn if you’d enjoy (or at least tolerate) the academic writing load. Lastly, don’t be intimidated by the amount time it takes to complete an MD-PhD. Yes, it is longer than most post-graduate training and takes up a significant portion of your early life. But it is a unique and worthy career path that is much needed in service to society. Sreya:  My advice to anyone considering an MD-PhD would be to get both a variety and depth of research experiences. As a student, it’s very easy to continue down a path you already started, but you must try to explore before you commit to any one approach. MD-PhD programs appreciate students who know what they would like to research and the only way to discover this is to pursue broad research experiences. That said, once you find what drives and excites you, it’s important to stick with it and maintain good relationships with your PIs and mentors. It’s a small world among physician-scientists, so depth of work and networking will help you achieve and further your goals. Above all, remember that an MD-PhD is not necessary to do research as a physician. The goal of an MD-PhD is to provide the specific training needed to conduct research above and beyond what a physician alone can do. In this case, you must really be sure that research is fulfilling and allows you to achieve your career goals when applying to programs, as they will ask you about your aspirations.

• @AAMCpremed

Translating Pre-Medical Experiences into Clinical Skills

Michael Foster | May 3, 2023

Your time before medical school is golden. It is a unique time to explore where your passions lie (both within and beyond medicine) and lay a strong foundation of the inter- and intrapersonal skills needed for you to be the best physician you can be. The best advice is simple: challenge yourself, be honest, and have fun! […]

The AAMC offers trusted resources and services to help you navigate the journey from premed to residency and beyond.

Cellular and Molecular Medicine, PhD

School of medicine.

The Graduate Training Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine prepares scientists for laboratory research at the cellular and molecular level with a direct impact on the understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of human diseases. The Ph.D. graduates of the program obtain rigorous training in scientific research and develop a thorough knowledge of human biology and human diseases.

This program grew out of a need for graduate training at the interface between medicine and the traditional basic science disciplines. Rapid progress in cellular and molecular biology has strongly impacted clinical medicine, offering insights about the fundamental causes of many diseases. Translational research—often described as “bench-to-bedside” studies—accelerates the discovery of new treatments directed at the basic mechanisms of disorder and disease. Thus, the goal of this program is to train scientists who will make discoveries in the laboratory that can be applied expeditiously to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. New technology allows scientists to identify genetic and molecular defects causing or predisposing to disease. The trainees in this program are working precisely at this interface between science and medicine to contribute to the long-term well-being of society.

Students will work in well-equipped laboratories of approximately 140 program faculty located throughout the medical school campus. These researchers are supported by many shared facilities including microscopy, molecular biology, and protein chemistry.

Financial Aid

The program is supported by a combination of monies from the Lucille P. Markey Charitable Trust and an NIH training grant. Each student is provided a stipend, health and dental insurance, and tuition throughout their years in the program. The program covers these benefits during the students’ first year; in subsequent years, the research advisor is responsible.

Admission Requirements

The mission of the CMM program is to recruit and train outstanding PhD candidates in translational research. We use a holistic approach in evaluating applicants, to ensure the best fit between our training program and trainees. Evidence of prior research experience is paramount in the admissions process, along with letters from research mentors. A bachelor’s degree from a qualified college or university is required. Applicants are expected to have taken the following courses: biology, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, physics, and calculus. Cell biology and/or biochemistry is recommended. Passage of the TOEFL is required for all students whose undergraduate instruction was conducted in a language other than English. CMM does not require or review GRE scores in the admissions process.

CMM draws from the top of an extremely strong and deep pool of candidates.  Although we do not use score cut-offs, the average accepted student has a GPA of 3.71. Our class size varies between 20-24, and includes in addition to PhD candidates, trainees in dual MD/PhD, DVM/PhD programs and Clinical Fellows.  Yield on admissions offers is high, ranging from 45-69%, with an average of 55% of offers resulting in acceptance.

The Vivian Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI) is dedicated to nurturing, mentoring and connecting the exceptional diverse talent that exists at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and other minority serving institutions. (MSIs) to STEM graduate education and future leadership in STEM careers.  The application for VTSI and the supplemental questions are found within the School of Medicine application for those interested in applying.

GEM (The National Consortium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering and Science) award fellowships to eligible students who pursue graduate education in science or engineering.  For more information, please visit GEM Fellowship webpage .  Prospective fellows apply to GEM and the sponsoring institutions at the same time.  Potential candidates must indicate on the JHU application that they have received or are being considered for a GEM Fellowship.

Inquiries regarding admissions should be referred to:

Office of the Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine 1830 E. Monument Street, Suite 2-103 Telephone: (410) 614-0391; (410) 614-3640

For questions not addressed on these pages, please email [email protected].

Program Requirements

Students must complete successfully the following courses:

Students are required to take four electives to further broaden their experience in cellular and molecular medicine during the duration of their studies.  Mandatory one elective out of the four required must be a Biostatistics course.  Rigor and Reproducibility in Research (3R's) principles are integrated throughout the program's coursework.  The Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) ethics training taken in year one fulfills a graduation requirement.   An Ethics refresher course includes attending several Research Integrity Colloquium lectures each year.

Students are expected to perform research rotations in at least three different laboratories culminating with the selection of a thesis advisor to begin original research leading to their doctoral dissertation. All rotations must be performed in the laboratories of CMM faculty members.

Additionally, the program requires students to actively participate in the OPTIONS Career Curriculum , managed by the Professional Development and Career Office, that provides protected time for students to develop their career goals and prepare for their future. Through interactive workshops, students discover careers of interest, develop career-specific skills and build a professional network while connecting with fellow trainees with similar interests.

A University-mandated Doctor of Philosophy Board Oral Examination must be completed by the end of the second year of study. Annual thesis committee meetings are held until such time as the thesis committee believes the student is ready to write their doctoral dissertation. The dissertation is based on the student’s novel research; a public seminar of thesis work is a graduation requirement.

• [email protected]

IRM Awards 4th Elaine Redding Brinster Prize to Mary-Claire King, PhD

Recognized for her discovery that variant forms of the BRCA1 gene impact hereditary breast cancer, the Institute for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania has awarded Mary-Claire King, PhD the fourth Elaine Redding Brinster Prize in Science or Medicine . Dr. King proved the existence and precise location of variants of the BRCA1 gene responsible for inherited predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer, which represented a major advance in our understanding of both these cancers and the genetics of complex human traits.

“Dr. King mapped the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes as causal for human breast and ovarian cancers.  While we now take for granted using genetic variation to predict possible disease predisposition, Dr. King’s research led to the first commonplace test for predisposition to cancer.  Dr. King also used her genetic acumen to develop genetic tests for human rights abuses and forensic applications by the United Nations.  Dr. King has had an extraordinary career, transforming her basic science discoveries into practices for humankind,” said Ken Zaret, PhD, director of Penn’s Institute for Regenerative Medicine and the Joseph Leidy Professor of Cell and Developmental Biology in the Perelman School of Medicine. “The Brinster family and the IRM are thrilled to award Dr. Mary-Claire King the 2025 Elaine Redding Brinster Prize in Science or Medicine.”

The prize, supported by an endowment from the children of Elaine Redding Brinster, is awarded annually to a researcher whose singular discovery has made a unique impact on biomedicine. This year, the Brinster family is happy to announce from this year forward, the winner will receive $200,000, a commemorative medal, and an invitation to present a ceremonial lecture at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. King will accept the prize March 12, 2025, as part of the day-long Ralph L. Brinster Symposium. The symposium will feature several eminent speakers from across the biomedical sciences, including Jay Shendure , MD, PhD, of the University of Washington; David C. Page , MD, of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Michael Rosbash , PhD, of Brandeis University; and Li-Huei Tsai , PhD, of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.