university of arizona phd molecular biology

Arizona Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Welcome to ABBS!

Dear Potential ABBS Student,

The  A rizona  B iological and  B iomedical  S ciences (ABBS) Program is an umbrella program in the University of Arizona Graduate College that serves eleven graduate degree-granting programs.  The ABBS program transcends departmental boundaries and provides an open environment for students to explore graduate program options and diverse research areas outside the constraints of the traditional department, giving the student full range and flexibility of choice in establishing the foundation for a successful career in the life sciences. The ABBS integrates renowned faculty from the Colleges of Medicine, Sciences, and Agriculture and Life Sciences, outstanding instructional programs, and individualized laboratory training in the first year of graduate study, after which the student selects a program and a laboratory to conduct the remainder of their graduate work.  There are more than 200 participating ABBS faculty members working in diverse areas of biological and biomedical sciences whose research interest areas include biochemistry, cancer biology, cardiovascular and pulmonary biology, cell biology, computational biology, developmental biology, drug development, animal physiology, environmental sciences, genomics and genetics, immunobiology, molecular biology, neurobiology, pharmacy, pharmacology, physiology, plant biology, population sciences, proteomics, systems biology, toxicology—to name some of the general areas of study. 

The ABBS program will expose you to our outstanding research programs, brilliant and dedicated faculty, cutting-edge technology, and it will guide you in your first step on a career path in the life sciences.

We hope these pages will answer your questions and look forward to reviewing your application!

Catharine Smith , Ph.D., Mike Kuhns , Ph.D. and John Streicher , Ph.D. ABBS Director and Co-Directors

Our campus is taking the COVID-19 pandemic seriously. You can find response and mitigation information here:  https://covid.arizona.edu/ . Please be aware that all our admitted students are hired and funded as a Graduate Assistants and are thus required to comply with the employee vaccine requirement or provide documentation of a religious or disability/medical accommodation. You can read more about the requirement here: https://hr.arizona.edu/content/employee-covid-19-vaccine-requirement .

Learn about the programs under the ABBS umbrella

Learn more about abbs., learn how to apply..

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Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University students can participate in a joint graduate degree program featuring coursework in Cellular & Molecular Medicine from UArizona—entirely in India.

The Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Arizona is home to leaders in many areas of biomedical research.

Dr. Donata Vercelli was named a 2022 American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) fellow

College of Medicine iCourses provide flexible, stackable learning opportunities for pre-professional students.

Message from the Interim Chair

Mission:  To improve the quality of human life by advancing the understanding of health and disease through basic and translational research, and imparting this knowledge through medical and graduate training, in pursuit of better health for everyone.

The mission of the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine is achieved by providing pre- and post-doctoral, medical, graduate, and undergraduate education in an interdisciplinary environment through research activities, teaching, and service, to advance knowledge of biology as related to normal function and disease at the cellular and molecular level.

Recent Publications

• Evaluation of Swab-Seq as a scalable, sensitive assay for community surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Author(s): H.J. Kang; S. Allison; A. Spangenberg; T. Carr; R. Sprissler; M. Halonen; D.A. Cusanovich Date Published: 23 FEB 2022 PMCID: PMC8866503   PMID: 35197492
• Gene Expression Patterns Associated with Survival in Glioblastoma. Author(s): C. Morrison; E. Weterings; N. Gravbrot; M. Hammer; M. Weinand; A. Sanan; R. Pandey; D. Mahadevan; B. Stea Date Published: 2024 Mar 25 PMCID: PMC11011684   PMID: 38612480
• Differential landscape of immune evasion in oncogenic RAS-driven primary and metastatic colorectal cancers. Author(s): E. Lou; J. Xiu; Y. Baca; A. Saeed; A. Prakash; S. Gholami; S. Subramanian; T.K. Starr; E. Fontana; R. Pandey; H.J. Lenz; A.F. Shields; C. Nabhan; M. Oberley; A. Seeber; W. El-Deiry Date Published: 2024 Mar 21 PMCID: PMC10963927   PMID: 38596288
• Lmod2 is necessary for effective skeletal muscle contraction. Author(s): T.M. Larrinaga; G.P. Farman; R.M. Mayfield; M. Yuen; R.C. Ahrens-Nicklas; S.T. Cooper; C.T. Pappas; C.C. Gregorio Date Published: 2024 Mar 15 PMCID: PMC10936868   PMID: 38478604
• Administration of a Bacterial Lysate to the Airway Compartment Is Sufficient to Inhibit Allergen-Induced Lung Eosinophilia in Germ-free Mice. Author(s): A.N. Michael; O. Pivniouk; P.C. Ezeh; S. Banskar; S. Hahn; A. DeVries; K. O'Connell; V. Pivniouk; D. Vercelli Date Published: 2024 Mar 12 PMID: 38470858

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• Student Resources

The degree requirements for the MCB Ph.D. degree are:

Molecular and Cellular Biology Track

MCB 572A - Cell Systems: consists of topics and an unusual and very interactive format, capturing the feeling of science as well as its content. The topics emphasize how systems work, be it in MAP kinase pathways, actin induced motility, cell cycle changes, evolution from mutation and selection, and more. We look for the Big Picture in each topic; map kinase cascades are not just three proteins signaling, but a network conferring a dose-response that dampens noise and sharpens commitment. We emphasize being able to read and summarize in a large way and work in small groups to figure out what you can't figure out yourself. The format replicates the way we think and interact; very few lectures, rather mostly reading and discussing papers in small and then larger groups. You Read, you think, you talk, you listen, you question, you discover. No question is dumb. You get good at communication and figuring out what you don't know, and Ask! Communication is what modern day biology is increasingly about. Modeling? We touch on it, get you comfortable with it.

MCB 546 - Genetic & Molecular Networks:  is an advanced course intended for beginning graduate students. Its focus is on cutting-edge genetic, molecular, and computational modeling approaches that are helping scientists reveal the fascinating nature of biological networks that govern cell function in multiple contexts.  The mechanisms and regulation of basic cellular processes involving nucleic acids (synthesis, structure, maintenance and transmission) and proteins (synthesis, maturation, transport, function) and the integration of those processes into more complex circuits (signaling, organelle function, cell cycle control, cell-to-cell communication, and cell migration) will be presented through study and interactive discussion of exceptional papers in the field.  Expected outcomes of the course include a high-level understanding of biological networks and cellular biology, coupled with improved problem solving, communication, critical- and creative-thinking skills.

MCB 695E - Science, Society & Ethics: Practical colloquium focusing on ethical issues raised in the research laboratory setting.

MCB 575 - Scientific Communication: Take in year two, to prepare for qualifying examinations.

MCB 585 - Multidisciplinary Approaches to Solving Biological Problems: Take in year two. Students explore the integration of classic and modern approaches to biological problem solving through a critical and integrated analysis of existing research and through active learning exercises based on hypothesis-building and testing at the edges of current knowledge.

Plus one course: BIOC 585 (A & B) - Biological Structure; BIOC 555 - Methods of Physical Biochemistry; ECOL 553 - Functional and Evolutionary Genomics; PHYS 531 - Molecular Biophysics; one course from other BMCB track; Other specialized electives

We also offer a science education focus within the MCB track.

Biochemistry Track

BIOC 565 - Proteins & Enzymes:  Advanced consideration of enzyme structure and function.

BIOC 568 - Nucleic Acids, Metabolism and Signaling:  Fundamental principles of nucleic acid and metabolic biochemistry including signaling and regulatory systems as applied to model organisms of central importance.  This course is designed for students pursuing a graduate degree in biochemistry or related chemistry or biology disciplines.

Computational Track

In addition to the MCB or BIOC requirements listed above, choose two of the following:

MCB 516A - Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics Analysis :  The course introduces bioinformatics and statistical methods for the analysis of large-scale experimental data in functional genomics. It uses the analysis of next-generation RNA-sequencing data as a leading example and prepares the students to perform independent analyses of genomic data in an interdisciplinary environment such as a research lab or pharmaceutical company. Graduate-level requirements include a course project, written report, and class presentations.

MCB 580 - Intro to Systems Biology:  The proteins in a cell are organized into networks and circuits that act to process information and control cell activity. In this course we will explore the structure and function of these circuits discussion through of the relevant literature and by building and testing mathematical models of simple/toy circuits. Emphasis will be placed on key concepts such as hysteresis, ultrasensitivity, adaptation, robustness and noise propagation.  Graduate-level requirements include more complex independent projects and a formal presentation to the class.

PSIO 572 - Quantitative Modeling of Biological Systems:  Techniques for development of mathematical models.  Examples of molecular, cellular, and tissue level processes are considered. Underlying mathematical and biological concepts are introduced as needed.  Graduate-level requirements include in addition to the homework and examination requirements, development of a mathematical model on a topic chosen in consultation with the instruction, to write a written report, and to make a short oral presentation on their work in class. The performance on this project will form part of the grade.

Molecular and Cellular Biology, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Molecular and Cellular Biology

The PhD program in molecular and cellular biology emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches in fundamental and highly applied molecular and cellular biology to answer basic and translational research questions. Students can tailor the program around their interests while gaining skills in the most innovative approaches and techniques.

Faculty have a diverse range of research interests and training opportunities for doctoral students interested in pursuing a degree that extends beyond the traditional boundaries of biological research. Participating faculty members and researchers are drawn from multiple departments, colleges, centers and institutes across the university including:

• New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
• School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy
• School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering
• School of Human Evolution and Social Change
• School of Life Sciences
• School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
• School of Molecular Sciences

Participating faculty members are also based at partner institutions in the greater Phoenix area, including:

• Caris Life Sciences
• Mayo Clinic Arizona
• Phoenix Children's Hospital
• Translational Genomics Research Institute
• University of Arizona College of Medicine -- Phoenix

Program Faculty PhD Students

Interdisciplinary participants across ASU

• ASU School of Life Sciences
• ASU Department of Psychology
• ASU New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
• ASU School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering
• ASU School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy
• ASU School of Molecular Sciences
• ASU School of Human Evolution and Social Change
• ASU School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences

Interdisciplinary participants outside ASU

• Mayo Clinic in Arizona
• University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix

Application and admission information

How to apply.

Applications open September 1 for admission in Fall of the following year. The application deadline is December 1 . We accept applications for Fall semesters only. We cannot guarantee that applications received after the December 1 deadline will be considered for admission.

All applicants must apply by filling out ASU's Graduate Admissions application. All application materials must be submitted through the application or to Graduate Admissions directly. Please do not mail or email any documents to the School of Life Sciences. 

Required materials and information include the following:

• 1-2 page personal statement
• An up to date CV or resume
• The names of relevant SOLS faculty you have been in touch with who you might be interested in being supervised by
• Unofficial transcripts and English proficiency test scores (if applicable)
• The names and emails of at least 3 recommenders to write you letters of recommendation

Application review process and timeline

Following the December 1 deadline, faculty will begin reviewing applications. Applicants should monitor their My ASU priority tasks to ensure there are no missing materials in their application.

Faculty will decide which applicants they would like to invite to our Graduate Recruitment Weekends (GRWs), typically held in February. Applicants will hear from the School of Life Sciences in January if they are invited to participate in the GRWs.

Admission decisions will begin after the GRWs, and applicants typically receive final decisions by April 1.

Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission include the following:

• Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• There are other ways to demonstrate English proficiency beyond the tests, so please refer to ASU's English proficiency webpage to review how you might satisfy requirements

Desired qualifications typically seen in competitive candidates:

• Research experience and a letter of recommendation from a faculty research supervisor
• English proficiency scores that meet these teaching assistant language proficiency requirements

Please note that the GRE is not required.

Students offered admission to a PhD program in the School of Life Sciences will typically receive a funding offer as well. While individual funding offers may differ to some degree, they typically include teaching assistant and/or research assistant positions each semester (summer optional) for 5 years. These positions provide financial coverage through the following:

• A standard salary stipend paid biweekly
• Tuition remission covering enrollment in 6-18 credit hours for fall and spring semesters and 1-14 credit hours for summer semesters
• Health insurance coverage

To discover more, check out the ASU Graduate College's funding opportunities !

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (6 credit hours) MCB 555 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Sciences (3) MCB 556 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Biology II (3)

Electives or Research (54 credit hours)

Other Requirements (12 credit hours) BIO 543 Molecular Genetics and Genomics (3) BIO 610 Introduction to Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) in Life Sciences (1) MCB 501 Seminar: Molecular and Cellular Biology Colloquium (8)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) MCB 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information Students take MCB 501 eight times for one credit hour. Courses listed as other requirements may be substituted with approval of the academic unit.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in the biological sciences, biochemistry or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

Applicants must submit the following:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• academic record form
• personal statement
• curriculum vitae or resume
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Research experience is a desired qualification.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, learning outcomes.

• Able to communicate the rationale and results of their research, both orally and in writing.
• Able to execute a research plan of their own design that addresses a significant scientific question about molecular and cellular biology.
• Able to review the literature relevant to the research question in molecular and cellular biology that they address in their dissertation.

Career Opportunities

Graduates hold positions as researchers and leaders in nongovernmental organizations, biotech and pharma, and in federal and state agencies.

Career examples include:

• faculty in universities and colleges
• leaders of nonprofit organizations
• principal investigators and leaders in private, government and industrial labs

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-1768

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Biophysical characterization of synthetic adhesins for predicting and tuning engineered living material properties​.

Costan, S. A., Ryan, P. M., Kim, H., Wolgemuth, C., Riedel-Kruse, I. H.

Synthetic biology is increasingly integrating into material science, where the ability to tune and predict material properties is a key component, especially in the context of 3D printing. This paper presents the quantitative characterization of a bacterial synthetic adhesion toolbox through several biophysical methods. Using these parameters, it is then demonstrated how to predict and quantitatively tune the macroscopic properties of engineered living materials consisting of cells expressing these synthetic adhesins, which is essential for applications such as bioprinting.

Estrogens, ER and breast cancer: Non-binary and stressed

Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program

Sydney E. Salmon Building, Kiewit Auditorium, Room 2951A 1515 N. Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85724

JOIN VIRTUALLY

Password: CBIOsem

Please join us for our next Cancer Biology Graduate Interdisciplinary Program Seminar: "Estrogens, ER and breast cancer: Non-binary and stressed."

Presenter Details

Gregory Thatcher, PhD Professor, Pharmacology and Toxicology R. Ken and Donna Coit Endowed Chair in Drug Discovery University of Arizona R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy

Attachments

NIH grant will help researchers follow a virus on its path to the nucleus

A University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson virologist’s work on human papillomavirus has been recognized by the National Institutes of Health for its enormous potential.

Chaz DeCoteau (left), an undergraduate double-majoring in biochemistry and pharmaceutical sciences, untangles the mysteries of human papillomavirus under the mentorship of Samuel Campos, PhD (right), associate professor of immunobiology.

Deanna R. Sanchez, BIO5 Institute

Human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause warts and certain cancers, and has been with us since the dawn of humanity. This tightknit relationship makes HPV an important source of information about our own biology, according to Samuel K. Campos, PhD, associate professor of immunobiology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson and member of the BIO5 Institute.

Samuel Campos, PhD

“These viruses take advantage of pathways the cell has and tweak them. What better cell biologists to teach us how cells work than the viruses that have evolved with us for eons?” Dr. Campos said about how HPV illuminates the innerworkings of our bodies. “Follow the biology of the virus, and we’ll learn some cool new cell biology.”

To delve deeper into their research on HPV, the Campos Lab was awarded a five-year $1.8 million R35 grant from the National Institutes of Health. This type of grant provides long-term funding that gives investigators flexibility to follow their research in whatever direction it takes them, and is reserved for scientists with outstanding research records and potential to make major contributions to their fields.

‘Constantly shedding’

Dr. Campos says there are more than 600 known strains of human papillomavirus, with more yet to be discovered. His lab mainly focuses on HPV16, the type that causes the majority of cervical, anal and head-and-neck cancers.

“Most HPV infections are cleared by the immune system, but there are so many infections out there that even the tiny fraction that aren’t cleared in a timely manner cause about 5% of cancers worldwide,” Dr. Campos said.

HPV has found its niche in certain types of epithelial cells, which cover our body as skin and line our body cavities as mucous membranes. The virus moves from the lower layers of the epithelium to the upper layers, and once it’s close to the surface, replication kicks into high gear as it prepares to leave one body and infect another.

“We are constantly shedding dead skin — it just comes off our body,” Dr. Campos said. “That is how they’ve so successfully spread throughout the human population.”

‘A wolf in sheep’s clothing’

HPV’s genes are packaged in a protein shell. The Campos Lab focuses on the role of one of these shell proteins, called L2, which can insert itself into the membranes of our cells, like a key into a lock, and let itself inside. Upon entry, the virus is escorted along a twisted path to the nucleus, where it hijacks the cell to make copies of itself.

Isabelle Tobey (left), a doctoral student in cancer biology, helps to move the Campos Lab’s research forward.

Dr. Campos says his lab’s prior research revealed that, from the cell’s point of view, L2 looks like another part of the cell.

“We learned that the virus is really sneaky,” Dr. Campos said. “L2 can actually stick through the cell membrane without rupturing it, and HPV stays hidden behind these membranes. It’s able to avoid sensors that detect danger signals, like a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”

Previous research published by the Campos Lab and other groups suggested that HPV may be able to hide out until the cell’s machinery whirs into action during cell division, at which point it sheds its “sheep’s clothing” and hitches a ride to the nucleus.

“Once the virus has successfully delivered its DNA genome into the nucleus, it can begin expressing its own genes to take over the cell,” Dr. Campos said. “That will lead to immune evasion, alteration of the cell cycle, the generation of new viral particles, and transmission to another host. If the virus sticks around long enough, these infections can sometimes alter the cell in a way that leads to cancer.”

The grant will support the Campos Lab as they uncover how HPV takes advantage of cell division to move from its hiding place in the cell to the nucleus.

“It’s a complete black box. It’d be really neat to figure that out,” Dr. Campos said, adding that following the virus’s path will shed light on the intricacies of cell division and how things move in and out of cells.

‘A potent inhibitor’

The Campos Lab will use SNX-1.3, a type of small molecule known as a peptide, to explore how HPV initiates infection. Their previous work found that the peptide interferes with the virus’s ability to enter the cell.

“The peptide turned out to be a really potent inhibitor of HPV — it actually blocked the ability of L2 to stick through cell membranes in the first place,” he said. “We don’t understand how.”

Their hypothesis is that the peptide makes cell membranes less bendy and flexible, preventing L2 from creating weak spots through which to enter the cell. The grant will help them test this idea, which Dr. Campos hopes will uncover details of our own biology, though he doesn’t see potential in developing the peptide into a therapeutic to prevent HPV because there is already an excellent vaccine to block infection.

The lab’s use of SNX-1.3 arose from a chance encounter with Joyce Schroeder, PhD, professor of molecular and cellular biology and member of the UArizona Cancer Center. As she gave a presentation on this peptide, which her lab discovered while researching breast cancer, Dr. Campos’ ears perked up when she mentioned that it blocked the same pathway HPV uses to reach the nucleus.

“I was like, ‘Joyce, can I have some of your peptide to see if it would inhibit HPV?’ She was happy to give me her peptide to try,” he recalled. “That’s how most basic scientists are. We’re interested in getting answers to basic questions, and we’re usually happy to help each other out.”

‘Scratching my head about basic biology’

As a graduate student at Rice University, Dr. Campos conducted translational research aimed at creating new clinical procedures and therapeutics. But his work using viruses in gene therapy made him more interested in basic science — the foundational knowledge upon which translational science is built.

Under the mentorship of Samuel Campos, PhD (right), molecular and cellular biology doctoral students Ashlin Schaefbauer (left) and Zach Williamson (center) hope to learn how HPV travels to the center of the cell.

“That gene therapy work was cool, but it got me scratching my head about the basic biology of how these viruses work,” he said. “There are so many facets of our own cell biology that have been illuminated by viruses.”

Dr. Campos says discoveries in basic science may not immediately lead to vaccines or cures, but those discoveries can lead other researchers down investigative pathways that may ultimately benefit patients.

For example, discoveries about HPV’s protein shell helped scientists develop the HPV vaccine, which primes the immune system to recognize another viral protein, L1, and neutralize the virus before it can infect a cell.

“We’re just trying to understand the basics of how cells work, how viruses work, and how they interplay together,” Dr. Campos said. “Who knows where this stuff will lead? Maybe it would lead to a great Ebola antiviral, who knows?”

These unknowns are what keep Dr. Campos coming to work each day.

“It’s tough and it’s frustrating, but it’s also satisfying — like solving a puzzle,” he said. “You don’t know where the science will take you. You don’t know what the ending is going to be. That’s exciting.”

This research is supported by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, a division of the National Institutes of Health, under award No. 1R35GM152143-01.

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Harvard Medical School

Harvard medical school therapeutics graduate program curriculum fellow.

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The Harvard Medical School Curriculum Fellows Program (HMS CFP) welcomes applications for a Therapeutics Graduate Program Curriculum Fellow (TGP CF) for the HMS Therapeutics Initiative and the HMS Office for Research Operations and Global Programs. This postdoctoral program targets early-career scientist-educators, emphasizing curriculum development, teaching, and educational programming in the biological and biomedical sciences.

The TGP Curriculum Fellow collaborates with a diverse cohort of Curriculum Fellows, leveraging individual expertise while closely engaging with Harvard Medical School faculty and administration to craft, implement, and assess evidence-based graduate training. Fellows benefit from mentorship and career guidance, nurturing their growth as educators and facilitating success across various education-focused careers. Further details are available on our website ( https://curriculumfellows.hms.harvard.edu/ ).

The mission of the Therapeutics Graduate Program (TGP) is to: (1) provide students with the intellectual, scientific, laboratory, computational, and professional skills needed to excel in academic and industrial careers related to therapeutics discovery and development; (2) create and sustain a diverse, inclusive, equitable, and engaged community of students and faculty with shared interests in therapeutics; and (3) provide a safe, respectful, and stimulating environment for training and professional development. Our program opens doors to well-paid jobs and leadership trajectories in pharmacological sciences and drug discovery research in academia and industry.

The CF will report directly to and receive mentorship from Dr. David Golan, Professor of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, George R. Minot Professor of Medicine, and HMS Dean for Research Operations and Global Programs, and Dr. Aimee Hollander, the Curriculum Fellows Program Director.

The primary responsibilities of the TGP Curriculum Fellow are expected to include:

• Partner with faculty on the TGP’s required courses in pharmacology and drug discovery, including but not limited to: BCMP 301qc, an intensive January term course; BCMP 236, a full semester course; and CELLBIO 302qc, a half semester course; as well as short courses and workshops addressing advanced and specialized topics.
• Collect and analyze student outcomes for TGP required courses to evaluate the effectiveness of these courses, resulting in a written report(s) provided to the course directors.
• Facilitate and contribute to development of a new course in cell and gene therapy based on modern best teaching practices.
• Contribute to the TGP’s NIGMS Pharmacological Sciences T32 training grant, including gathering data for progress reports, supplemental funding, or renewal.
• Collaborate with colleagues in the TGP and in the Office for Postdoctoral Fellows on various workshops, community events, and related programming. The TGP CF is expected to attend and participate in TGP community events.
• Actively participate in the TGP leadership group, support faculty directors, and work with program manager to facilitate a dynamic, engaging, collaborative, and supportive environment for the program and its activities.

Additionally, the TGP Curriculum Fellow will have specific responsibilities to the CFP:

• Take required courses, including Teaching 100 and Teaching 101.
• Participate in weekly CFP group meetings and pedagogical journal clubs.
• Present at university-wide workshops on curricular and pedagogical topics.
• Assist in developing the curriculum for the NIH-mandated Responsible Conduct of Science (RCOS) course.
• Assist with the organization of the Graduate Science Education Series (GSES), https://curriculumfellows.hms.harvard.edu/graduate-science-education-series

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Candidates are expected to have a PhD or equivalent degree in biomedical sciences, preferably related to therapeutic science, pathophysiology, pharmacology, or disease-related research along with teaching experience. Candidates who are currently finishing their doctoral work but have not yet graduated are encouraged to apply.

Qualified candidates will be evaluated based upon their:

• Demonstrated interest or experience with teaching and/or curriculum development in higher education settings
• Interest and/or experience in teaching and developing curriculum in an asynchronous online environment
• Ability to research and learn new topics related to therapeutic science, and to apply that knowledge for curriculum development or improvement
• Organizational and written and oral communication skills
• Experience in project planning and implementation from conception to completion
• Ability to support collaborations across departments in a fast-paced academic environment
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a small, coordinated team

The ideal start date for this Curriculum Fellow is approximately early-mid June, 2024 . This is a hybrid position and the candidate will be expected to work in person on the HMS campus in Boston, MA 2-3 days per week. The CF appointment is renewable annually for a maximum of three years and is non-tenure-track.

Application Deadline & Instructions:

Applications received by Monday, March 25, 2024 will receive a full review. Review of applications will begin on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Applicants who apply after the deadline must email [email protected] to alert the hiring team you’ve applied.

To apply, CLICK HERE , or copy the application URL into your browser: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/13512

Below are the required application materials needed to apply:

• A cover letter that addresses your interest in and qualifications for the position. Please highlight your experience in curriculum development, particularly related to drug discovery, therapeutic science, pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, or cell biology in your cover letter.
• A curriculum vitae.
• A teaching statement. The teaching statement is an opportunity to describe your philosophy of teaching in the context of your own experiences. A discussion of diversity, equity, and inclusion is an important component of the teaching statement. Submissions will be evaluated according to the guidelines found on our website, here , https://curriculumfellows.hms.harvard.edu/teaching-statement-guidelines
• The names and contact information of three professional references.

If you have any questions specific to the program or fellowship, please email: [email protected] .

We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture ( https://hr.fas.harvard.edu/inclusive-culture ) of faculty, staff, and students with diverse backgrounds, styles, abilities, and motivations. We appreciate and leverage the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals.

Harvard Medical School Mission and Community Values: https://hms.harvard.edu/about-hms/campus-culture/mission-community-values-diversity-statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.

• College of Arts & Sciences
• Graduate Division
• College of Liberal and Professional Studies

• Graduate Student Awards in Microbiology

Microbiology, Virology and Parasitology program within the Cell and Molecular Biology graduate group has announced awards to three talented graduate students. We are excited to see where your research leads you! 

Priyanka Chatterjee is a 4th year PhD student in the Microbiology, Virology and Parasitology subtrack of the Cell and Molecular Biology graduate group. She received the NIH F31 Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award to fund her dissertation research in the Pohlschröder Lab.

Yirui Hong is a 4th year PhD student in the Biology graduate group. She received the Teece Dissertation Research Award to fund her dissertation research in the Pohlschröder Lab.

Jacob Cote is a 2nd  year Ph.D. student in the Microbiology, Virology and Parasitology subtrack of the Cell and Molecular Biology graduate group. He received an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (GRFP) to fund his dissertation research in the Pohlschröder Lab.