PhD Curriculum

The PhD in Physiology and Biophysics curriculum combines rigorous coursework, research rotations, and thesis/dissertation research to prepare students for advanced careers in biomedical science. Students complete foundational training in cell and molecular biology, physiology and biophysics while working closely with faculty mentors to develop individualized plans of study tailored to their research interests. Research rotations completed during the first year allow students to explore research areas and identify a dissertation laboratory early in the program.

Degree Requirements

To earn a PhD in Physiology and Biophysics, students must complete:

• Rotations in at least three laboratories before selecting a research advisor
• Core and elective coursework in physiology, biophysics and related biomedical sciences
• Responsible conduct of research training
• 36 total credit hours of coursework, including 24 graded credit hours
• 18 credit hours of PHOL 701 dissertation research
• A qualifier examination in the form of a short grant proposal and oral defense
• Thesis committee meetings twice each year during the dissertation phase
• Departmental seminar presentations
• Journal publication requirements
• Successful defense of a doctoral dissertation

Throughout the program, students are also expected to actively participate in seminars, journal clubs and laboratory research meetings.

Biomedical Sciences Training Program (BSTP)

For traditional PhD students, entry into the Physiology and Biophysics PhD program is through the Biomedical Sciences Training Programm (BSTP), which handles all applications and admissions.

BSTP coursework includes:

• IBMS 453 Cell Biology I
• IBMS 455 Molecular Biology I
• IBMS 450 Biostatistics
• IBMS 456A Literature-Based Reading Course
• IBMS 500 On Being a Professional Scientist: The Responsible Conduct of Research

These courses emphasize the molecular approaches that form the foundation of modern biology. Qualified students may also take specialized elective courses.

Research Rotations

Research rotations give students the opportunity to explore research areas, work with faculty members and become familiar with department laboratories before selecting an advisor and laboratory for their thesis work. The primary goal of these rotations is to help students identify the research environment that best aligns with their scientific interests and career goals.

Students are encouraged to begin rotations in July so they can complete research experiences during the summer before fall semester classes begin in late August. All students must complete at least three research rotations.

Choosing a Thesis Advisor

During the first year, students select an advisor for their dissertation research and join the PhD program with which their advisor is affiliated. Once students select a PhD program, they follow the requirements of that program to complete the degree.

The emphasis of the PhD work is on research, which culminates in the completion and defense of an original dissertation and publication of research findings in the scientific literature. The program also prepares students to work as professional scientists through advanced scientific training, collaboration and scholarly engagement.

Sample Plan of Study 

First-Year Coursework

Fall Semester 

Spring Semester

*Select one course from the list

Second-Year Coursework

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

Third-Year Coursework

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

**After passing the qualifying examination, students register for full-time thesis research—PHOL 701 (18 credit hours total).