Structural Biology and Biophysics Training Program

The Structural Biology and Biophysics Training Program emphasizes quantitative methods and equips students to study cell and protein structure and function using state-of-the-art instrumentation and computing. The Department hosts outstanding research programs in the areas of structural biology and cellular ion channels and transporters. 

Qualified students receive full tuition waiver, a stipend, and health benefits during the full duration of their studies.

Students can enter this training program by direct admission to the departmental program, by admission to the Interdepartmental Structural Biology and Biophysics Training Program, or via the School-wide Biomedical Scientist training program (BSTP).

A total of at least 54 credit hours are required to earn the Ph.D.
At least 36 hours (24 graded) of coursework must be successfully completed.
At least 18 hours of thesis research (PHOL701) are required for graduation.

RECOMMENDED PROGRAMS OF STUDY First Year: Fall For students directly admitted to the Department of Physiology & Biophysics (slight changes for students in other admission routes)
PHOL 456 Proteins/Nucleic Acids	3.0 Credits
PHOL 432 Cell Structure and Function	3.0 Credits
PHOL 468 Membrane Physiology	3.0 Credits
PHOL 498-01 Physiology & Biophysics Seminar	1.0 Credit
PHOL 505-01 Laboratory Research Rotation	3.0 Credits

First Year: Spring
PHOL 434 Protein Biophysics	3.0 Credits
PHOL 475 Protein Biophysics	3.0 Credits
PHOL 465 Ethical Conduct in Science	1.0 Credit
PHOL 476 Cell Biophysics	3.0 Credits
PHOL 498 Physiology & Biophysics Seminar	1.0 Credit
First Year: Summer
PHOL 505-2 Laboratory Research Rotation #2	3.0 Credits
PHOL 505-3 Laboratory Research Rotation #3	3.0 Credits
Second Year: Fall
PHOL 530 Technology in Physiological and Biophysical Science	3.0 Credits
PHOL 498 Physiology & Biophysics Departmental Seminar	1.0 Credits
PHOL 601 Lab Research	1-7 Credits
Subsequent Terms:
PHOL 498 Physiology & Biophysics Departmental Seminar	1.0 Credits
PHOL 701 Thesis Research	1-7 Credits
Journal Club	0 Credits