PhD in Medical Sciences at University of Florida

University of Florida

United States of America, Gainesville

University Rank:#212

University of Florida offers the PhD of Medical Sciences as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its main campus in Gainesville , United States of America. Taught in English and completed over 5 years, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for medical sciences and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on January 9, 2027.

About PhD in Medical Sciences

Program Information

Dean: M. L. Good
Associate Dean for Graduate Education: Thomas Rowe

Complete faculty listing: Follow this link.

The College of Medicine offers training opportunities leading to either the Doctor of Philosophy or Master of Science degree in medical sciences. Minimum requirements for these degrees are given in the General Information section of this catalog. The interdisciplinary program (IDP) in biomedical sciences is the major focus leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree. Other graduate courses and programs are listed under departmental headings.

Interdisciplinary Program (IDP) in Biomedical Sciences

The goal of the IDP is to prepare students for a diversity of careers in research and teaching in academic and commercial settings, after completion of the Ph.D. in Medical Sciences. The program provides a modern, comprehensive graduate education in biomedical sciences while providing both maximum program flexibility and appropriate specialization for advanced training. The IDP represents a cooperative effort of six interdisciplinary advanced concentrations with participation of over 250 faculty members.

During the first semester of study, students undertake a common, comprehensive interdisciplinary core curriculum of classroom study and a responsible conduct of research course. During the second semester, students begin to focus their coursework in one or two concentrations. Throughout the first two semesters, students participate in at least three laboratory rotations in any of the laboratories of the IDP faculty members. The advanced concentration and the supervisory committee chair are chosen no later than the end of the spring semester to maximize flexibility and facilitate an informed decision. Students entering the advanced concentrations take more specialized courses that strengthen their knowledge of these disciplines. The advanced concentration curricula are flexible enough to allow students to integrate course work offered in other advanced concentrations. In addition, journal clubs and seminars associated with their research interests allow students to further augment their scientific development.

Prospective students should have strong backgrounds in biology including genetics, chemistry (organic, quantitative, and biochemistry), physics, and calculus. Demonstrated high motivation and a serious intention to pursue research-related careers are also important considerations. This is best accomplished by performing independent study in a research laboratory for at least a semester, with a year or more being preferred. For more information, write:

IDP
P.O. Box 100229
College of Medicine
Gainesville, FL 32610-0229

For expanded information about the IDP, visit http://biomed.med.ufl.edu/.

Advanced Concentration in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Directors: Robert McKenna and Kevin Brown

The Graduate Faculty of the biochemistry and molecular biology advanced concentration share an interest in the relationships between the structure of a biological macromolecule and the function of that molecule in the cell. The structure (encoded ultimately by the genome) sets the phenotype of the organism. The uniting theme among the Graduate Faculty is their approach to research: Each uses the techniques of biochemistry and molecular biology/genetics to characterize the function of a macromolecule and show how function (and the process it is part of) is determined by the structure of that molecule and its interactions with other macromolecules. Specific research directions range from physical determination of the molecular structure of proteins to regulation of cellular processes to the genetic mapping of disease loci.

For information about other programs and courses in this field, see the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology listing.

Advanced Concentration in Cancer Biology

Directors: Dietmar Siemann and Maria Zajac-Kaye

The Cancer Biology Concentration (CBC) provides training opportunities in cancer research ranging from basic to translational. The program spans many disciplines, including molecular and cell biology, genetics and epigenetics, biochemistry, microbiology, pharmacology, anatomy, pathology, epidemiology, bioinformatics, immunology and many others involved in the understanding of the development, progression, dissemination, and treatment of cancer.

Students in the will have opportunities to work with outstanding cancer investigators in state of the art facilities. Through combinations of courses, seminars, small group discussions, and an interdisciplinary approach to research, the program allows students to gain a unique understanding of cancer and to build a firm foundation upon which they can build careers in academia, government, and biotech and pharmaceutical industry.

For more information please see our website: http://idp.med.ufl.edu/about/cancer-biology-concentration

Advanced Concentration in Clinical and Translational Science

Director: Wayne McCormack

The Clinical & Translational Science PhD program provides graduate students with knowledge and skills required to develop a career in multidisciplinary clinical and translational research. This program uses a team-science approach to provide didactic training and mentoring for predoctoral students performing clinical and/or translational research in health-related fields at UF. Completion of program requirements results in the award of an interdisciplinary concentration in Clinical & Translational Science. Doctoral students from all UF doctoral graduate programs who are interested in health-related research are eligible to apply.

For more information contact:

Susan Gardner
Program Coordinator
[email protected]

Dr. Wayne McCormack
Program Director
[email protected]

https://www.ctsi.ufl.edu/education/ph-d-students/

Advanced Concentration in Genetics

Director: M. R. Wallace
Co-Director: Lei Zhou

The concentration in genetics offers graduate training in all facets of modern molecular genetics including bacterial, viral, lower eukaryotic, mouse, developmental, and human genetics. The courses listed are taught in a 5-week modular format, ranging from 1-3 modules.

Advanced Concentration in Health Outcomes and Policy

The University of Florida's Master of Science in Medical Sciences, with a concentration in Health Outcomes and Policy, is a specialized degree designed to put its graduates at the forefront of innovative research to develop, implement, and evaluate clinical and community-based programs that promote health and health outcomes. Throughout the curriculum, special emphasis is placed on health disparities and vulnerable populations. In addition to traditional graduate students, our program is available to medical students, post-doctoral researchers, fellows, residents, Ph.D. students, and junior faculty.

We also offer a 16-credit graduate certificate designed to complement other concurrent courses of study and to provide continuing education opportunities for faculty. The certificate can be completed in one year on a part-time basis.

Advanced Concentration in Immunology and Microbiology

Directors: C. E. Mathews and Scott Tibbetts

The concentration in immunology and microbiology offers graduate training in cellular and molecular immunology (including immunopathology, immunogenetics, and autoimmunity) and in microbiology (including virology, bacteriology, microbial genetics, and microbial pathogenesis). The courses listed are taught in a 5-week modular format, ranging from 1-3 modules.

Advanced Concentration in Molecular Cell Biology

Director: Alexander Ishov
Co-Director: Eric Vitriol

The advanced concentration in molecular cell biology (MCB) prepares investigators for careers in biomedical research in academic or industrial settings. This multidisciplinary specialization has more than 50 participating faculty members and offers an extraordinary range of opportunities for advanced study of life at the molecular and cellular levels. The Graduate Faculty share common interests in the molecular interactions that account for functionally integrated subcellular, cellular, and tissue organization found in living organisms. The model systems in use range from yeast and cellular lime molds through Drosophila to birds and mammals. These systems are manipulated and analyzed using a wide range of powerful molecular, genetic, protein chemical, immunological, pharmacological, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and microscopic imaging strategies. Students who select MCB take advanced course work and initiate independent research during the second year. This approach provides broad-based vision early in the program and the appropriate degree of specialization later on.

Advanced Concentration in Neuroscience

Directors: Jada Lewis and Harry Nick

The Graduate Faculty associated with the neuroscience advanced concentration have expertise in neuroanatomy, molecular and cellular neurobiology, neurodevelopment and aging, neurotransmitter chemistry and pharmacology, neuroendocrinology and neuroimmunology, cellular and molecular neuro-oncology, cellular and membrane neurophysiology, somatosensory and motor systems, transplantation neurobiology, injury and repair of the CNS, and neurobehavioral sciences. Study in marine vertebrate and invertebrate neurobiology is available through Graduate Faculty at the Whitney Laboratory.

Advanced Concentration in Oral Biology

Chair: R. A. Burne
Graduate Coordinator: J. Brady

The Department of Oral Biology, a unit of the College of Dentistry, offers graduate study leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy as part of the College of Medicine's Interdisciplinary Program (IDP) in Biomedical Sciences. The work is designed to provide the degree candidate with a strong background in basic biological principles relevant to the various subspecialties of oral biology, as well as specialized training in various aspects of the diseases and disorders of the oral cavity.

Areas of emphasis include application of microbiological, immunological, cellular, and molecular biological concepts and technologies to answer questions about host-pathogen interactions in oral disease; vaccine development; oral microbial physiology; oral bacterial biofilm biology; saliva and salivary gland biology; microbial antibiotic resistance; and autoimmune diseases. More information is available at http://dental.ufl.edu/departments/oral-biology/.

Prerequisites for admission in addition to those of the Graduate School include a broad base of courses in mathematics, physics, organic and analytic chemistry, advanced biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and statistical methods. Specific requirements can be obtained from the Graduate Coordinator or the IDP office.

Advanced Concentration in Physiology and Pharmacology

Directors: Gonzalo Torres and Glenn Walter

The Graduate Faculty associated with this advanced concentration have expertise in a variety of disciplines, including molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, physiology, neuroscience, and biochemistry. These faculty bring together unique strengths to provide the students with diverse training. Students may train in laboratories involved in cardiovascular, neuro, endocrine, and developmental physiology; pharmacology; and toxicology. Students conduct research at the molecular, cellular, and integrative levels. Many of the faculty are involved in multidisciplinary, collaborative research efforts that aim to understand basic physiological mechanisms and pathophysiological processes (e.g., cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and neoplastic diseases).

Other Interdisciplinary Doctoral Concentrations Offered

The interdisciplinary emphasis on vision sciences is also discussed in the Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies section. The program director is:

Dr. W. Clay Simith
P.O. Box 100284
College of Medicine
Gainesville, FL 32610
or (352) 392-0476.

Interdisciplinary study in toxicology is coordinated by the Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology and is concerned with the effects of chemicals on human and animal health. Additional information is given in the Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies section of this catalog or may be obtained from the codirector:

Dr. Colin Sumners
P.O. Box 100215
College of Medicine
Gainesville, FL 32610
or (352) 392-0740.

Combination Degree Program: The College participates in a combination degree program between a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Biology and a Master of Science degree with a major in Medical Sciences with or without a concentration in Pharmacology.

Medical sciences (PHD)

SLO1 Knowledge
Students will identify and explain the core knowledge for the Interdisciplinary Program (genetics, cell biology, biochemistry/molecular biology) followed by concentration-specific core knowledge (genetics, molecular cell biology, immunology/microbiology, physiology/pharmacology, biochemistry/molecular biology, or neuroscience). At the most basic level, this will include recognizing and explaining fundamental facts in the disciplines. At the intermediate level this will include explaining relationships between facts and explanation of mechanisms of biological processes. At the most advanced level this will include interpreting experimental data and designing experiments.

SLO2 Research Skills
Students will read, interpret and critically analyze published literature in their field to formulate hypotheses; design a technically sound and up-to-date experimental plan with appropriate controls; execute the experimental plan in a technically proficient manner; interpret the data; and then reformulate the hypotheses.

SLO3 Professional Behavior
Students apply professional behavior in their conduct of research, specifically identification and illustration of ethical conduct, including employment of appropriate safety, administrative, and regulatory rules

Medical Sciences (MS)

SLO1 Knowledge
Identifies, describes, and explains key concepts, study designs, and research methodologies necessary to conduct research in medical and health care disciplines

SLO2 Research
Explains research ideas, designs, and produces a scientifically sound clinical/translational research project in an ethically sound manner, which includes testable hypotheses and specific aims, presenting scientific relevancy, stating appropriate statistical and ethical considerations, detailing subject enrollment, data collection and analysis, and reporting how the project will lead to improvement of human health

SLO3 Professionalism
Organize activities that promote self-improvement, scientific teamwork, and improvement in human health

Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Medical Sciences at University of Florida

Entry Requirements

Applicants who should complete the SSAR:

Attended a high school regionally accredited in the United States for at least three years.
Attended a DODEA (Department of Defense Education Activity) school.

Applicants who should not complete the SSAR:

Attended a secondary school located outside the United States for more than one semester.
Studied a curriculum that did not follow the standard U.S. system.

Required: At least three full years of your most recent secondary school transcripts, including courses in progress (grades 9, 10 and 11 + senior schedule) in both the native language of instruction and a word for word certified English translation (if applicable). Unofficial transcripts are accepted electronically via the status Check Status page for the review process, while official transcripts and translations are required upon enrollment.

English Requirements

IELTSMin 6
TOEFLMin 80

English Program Requirements

All applicants, regardless of citizenship, must demonstrate English proficiency. English proficiency examination results, such as TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test, are encouraged for non-native English speakers, but are not required for freshman admission. SAT or ACT results are required for all freshman applicants.

Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in Medical Sciences at University of Florida

How to Apply for PhD in Medical Sciences at University of Florida

Start by exploring our more than 250 degree programs to determine the application requirements and if additional items, such as transcripts, portfolios or recommendation letters, are needed in your application. Application deadlines also vary by department, so be sure to apply before the deadline.

Regardless of program, all graduate students apply using the UF graduate school application through CollegeNET. You will select your college and major within the application. Complete the application and pay the $30 non-refundable application fee. Review your application carefully before submission, as changes cannot be made once the application is submitted.

The Office of Admissions does not provide an application fee waiver. If needed, check directly with the program to which you are applying. Additionally, if your application is not considered because the application deadline is passed, UF will not issue you a refund for the application fee. It is important to know the application deadlines for the intended major.

If you are applying to more than one program, you must complete an application for each program and pay the non-refundable application fee

Official test scores must be sent to UF electronically by the testing agency.

GRE

Review your program requirements to determine if GRE scores are needed. Most applicants must submit GRE scores, but some programs in the College of the Arts do not require these. When using electronic delivery, select school code 5812 (University of Florida). UF does not superscore the GRE.

GMAT

All MBA applicants must submit satisfactory scores on the Graduate Management Admissions Test. GMAT scores may also be accepted by certain MHA, Sport Management, and Food and Resource Economics programs. Contact individual departments for specific requirements. When ordering your scores from GMAC, select the department you intend to apply to here at the University of Florida.

Fundamentals of Engineering

Some engineering programs will accept FE scores as a substitute for the GRE. Contact individual programs for requirements.

Exemptions

Applicants with a previous graduate or professional degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution may be exempt from the Graduate Record Exam or Graduate Management Admission Test at the program's discretion.

Verifying Receipt of Scores

Requested scores generally arrive to UF within 2-4 weeks

Send your transcripts to the UF Office of Admissions.

For the purpose of initial review, the Office of Admissions accepts unofficial transcripts. These can be uploaded through your Application Status page.

Applicants who receive an offer of admissions should arrange to have official transcripts sent to the UF Office of Admissions from each postsecondary institution attended. If you attended UF as your postsecondary institution, you do not have to order a transcript from the Office of the University Registrar. Official transcripts can be sent to UF in two ways: paper transcript received by UF in a sealed envelope or electronic transcripts sent from your institution directly to UF, which can save up to two weeks response time. UF accepts electronic transcripts through FASTER, Parchment, National Student Clearing House, ScribbleSoft, e-Scrip Safe, Credential Solutions, SCOIR or Transcripts Plus.

All academic credentials become property of the university. They will not be returned to you or forwarded to a third party. For diplomas and academic credentials that are only issued once, please send an attested or certified copy of the original.

Transcript updates can be found within your Application Status page. Transcripts uploaded or received by mail will display on the Application Checklist as Transcript - Under Review. Once the transcripts are reviewed, these checklist items will be removed, and the Awaiting Transcript checklist items will be updated accordingly. We process transcripts as quickly as possible. The Admissions Office prioritizes the review of transcripts needed for students to register for the current term.

Pursuant to Florida Statute, your application requires inclusion of all post-high school education and employment, as well as information about ongoing international affiliations and research funding. Ensure this information is included on your curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé that is uploaded within your graduate application.

If the program of interest requires recommendation letters, these should be submitted electronically through the admissions application. You must request these recommendations prior to submitting your application. You cannot add or delete recommendations once your application has been submitted. If your recommendation is supplied by paper or PDF, check with your academic program to inquire if this will be accepted.

You can check the receipt of materials by the Office of Admissions on the Check Status page. This page will only reflect information concerning materials forwarded directly to the Office of Admissions and does not include materials that are required to be sent directly to your academic unit.

Approximately 24-48 hours after submitting your online application, your 8-digit UF Identification Number (UFID) will be available on the status of your application. Use the same username and password used to submit your CollegeNET application.

Your UFID is unique to you and should be used in all email communication and any subsequent applications submitted. If you do not use your UFID in communications and submissions, it is difficult for us to match your test scores, transcripts, and financial aid information to your academic record.

PhD in Medical Sciences at University of Florida

University of Florida

United States of America, Gainesville