Biomedical Sciences

Programs in Biomedical Sciences (PIBS) at the University of Miami Miller’s School of Medicine (UMMSM) provides students a wide variety of research opportunities in the biological sciences across many disciplines and departments.

First–year students take a core curriculum that builds a solid foundation in the biomedical sciences. The common coursework in the first semester ranges from molecules to cells to systems of human physiology. Lectures are balanced by breakout sessions, in which faculty members discuss the primary literature with students in small groups. Students have the flexibility to select breakout sessions that match their interests. The core curriculum also offers critical learning opportunities in biostatistics, genomic and analytical tools. In the second semester, students select individual modular courses offered in our eight disciplines. These courses cover topics of specific relevance to graduate programs or research topics. Students also complete a course in Biostatistics and a workshop in BioInformatics.

PhD Program Selection

During their first year in the umbrella program, students complete three to four laboratory rotations in various disciplines. This opportunity allows students to explore their interests before selecting a program and dissertation mentor. Students match with mentors in specific programs and achieve program affiliation at the end of their first year in one of the following programs (for years two through five):

• Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
• Cancer Biology
• Human Genetics & Genomics
• Microbiology & Immunology
• Molecular & Cellular Pharmacology
• Molecular Cell & Developmental Biology
• Neuroscience
• Physiology & Biophysics

Students enrolled in the first year program for the PhD in Biomedical Sciences complete the following core requirements. The curricula for years two through five can be found in the program links above.

Program Elective Courses

The following program courses are available to first year students in their spring semester. It is generally recommended that students only take courses in the program they wish to enter. This will put students on a timely path to graduation. Your options will be discussed in your spring course advising appointment.

Applicants to biomedical programs should have a bachelor degree in a biological or related discipline (e.g., psychology, chemistry, engineering, physics). Although there are no prerequisite requirements, courses in general biology, cell/molecular biology, calculus, general physics, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry are encouraged. Applications are generally accepted from September to December for fall entry only.  Select applicants will be offered an interview.

COMPETITIVE CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING:

• Excellent academic record
• Competitive GRE exam scores
• Research experience in a laboratory setting
• Publications of abstract and / or papers
• Co-authorship in a peer-reviewed journal is recommended
• Strong letters of recommendation from research scientists who know the candidate well
• Motivation to pursue state-of-the-art biomedical research

APPLICANTS MUST SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING:

• Online Application
• Application Fee
• Official Academic Transcripts
• GRE General Test
• English Proficiency Exam (non-native speakers)
• Statement of Purpose
• Resume / CV