Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences

Graduate research at the University of Kansas Medical Center covers a rich and diverse range of topics in both basic and translational research. Basic research is geared toward understanding the basic biological systems that control life. By understanding these systems, rational treatments to treat disease can be devised. The discovery and refinement of these rational treatments is translational research. With such a range of research topics, it is often difficult to choose the best lab. The interdisciplinary program allows the student to make an informed choice of labs to enter. IGPBS students hear from every researcher who is able to take a new student into their lab during the Faculty Research Series. The student then selects 3 research rotations. At the end of the 3 rotations the student will choose the lab that is the best fit for their research goals. Once a lab is chosen, the student enters the chosen mentor’s department to complete the Ph.D.

The interdisciplinary program covers the first 2 semesters of graduate study. Students take a core group of courses that cover all aspects of cell biology, biochemistry, and cell signaling. Courses are both lecture based and discussion based. Students receive introductions to critical research techniques, work on problem sets, and critically evaluate our current knowledge base. In addition, students take courses in scientific ethics and scientific communication. Scientific communication covers graphic presentation of data and both written and oral communication.

At the end of the first year, students have built a considerable knowledge base and have skills in scientific communication, critical thinking, and problem solving. Students expand their knowledge base and skills by taking advanced courses in their chosen departments or programs. Our graduate program prepares students for successful careers in research.