The Graduate Program
The Graduate Program, Program of Study
An interdisciplinary approach employing advanced methods of Molecular Biology and Structural Biophysics is the hallmark of modern scientific research, whether fundamental, clinical or translational. The process involves obtaining information about the structure and function of cells at the molecular and even atomic level, and integrating it for understanding the function of the entire organism. The Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics aims to promote, at all levels, the understanding of the function of living systems. Today this understanding has to be based on knowledge of atomic and molecular structure and function, just as the classical physiology of Harvey and his successors was based on the structural studies of Vesalius and his fellow anatomists. Thus, modern molecular physiologists and biophysicists may investigate the function of the heart by cloning a membrane channel or transport protein, expressing it and studying its kinetics through patch clamping in a model cell system, while exploring the relationship between molecular structure and function through crystallography and spectroscopy of the protein. The major aims, as of all science, are to understand the general laws of nature and, for physiology, how they operate in living systems. The ultimate aim is to exploit this knowledge for the betterment of human health. Our research-intensive program at the University of Virginia is designed to train students to identify significant biological problems and use the most advanced and modern methods for solving them. The emphasis of our department and expertise in molecular physiology and biophysics provide a unique environment for training graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. This interdisciplinary approach also integrates the insights gained at the molecular and cellular levels into the broader framework of organ function, with the aim of understanding the function of living systems at all levels.
Program of StudyThe newly organized Graduate Training Program at the University of Virginia is integrated across departments into seven areas of study, each with a specialized program and expert mentors. These graduate groups are: (1) Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, (2) Biomedical Engineering, (3) Cell and Developmental Biology, (4) Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, (5) Molecular Medicine and Systems Biology, (6) Neuroscience, and (7) Structural and Computational Biology and Biophysics. We recommend students interested in our faculty and their research programs enter through the Molecular Medicine Systems Biology or the Structural and Computational Biology and Biophysics Training Programs depending on their area of interest (see below). All students spend the first year acquiring a broad background in Physiology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology and related disciplines and rotate through laboratories of their choice. Students are also encouraged to take a laboratory rotation during the summer prior to the first semester of study. Towards the end of the first year, students identify a mentor, begin to focus on their specific area and take specialized courses in their areas of interest and after passing a preliminary examination begin an independent research project. Upon completion of all requirements, the Ph.D. degree is awarded in Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics to those students who have selected mentors whose primary appointment is the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics. Advanced courses may be selected in a wide variety of disciplines, including Physiology, Biophysics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Pharmacology and Bioengineering. Students and faculty participate in regularly scheduled departmental research seminars presented by distinguished visiting scientists and participate in all of the specialized activities organized by their graduate group of choice, for example Molecular Medicine and Systems Biology or Structural and Computational Biology and Biophysics, etc. The collegiality that characterizes the University of Virginia is a special strength of our training programs, lending them a strong interdisciplinary character and close working relationships between students and research advisors. We want our students to receive the training, sense of purpose and enthusiasm that will carry them throughout their careers.
Prospective students now apply for admission through one of the seven Graduate Groups. (Click here to find out about the graduate admissions and to apply on-line). For studies relevant to physiology, we recommend the Molecular Medicine Systems Biology or the Structural and Computational Biology and Biophysics Training Programs. Suggested Undergraduate Preparation for Application: Applicants should have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college, and their background should include one year each of biology, physics, organic chemistry and physical chemistry, as well as mathematics through calculus. Qualified candidates may meet a limited number of these prerequisites after enrollment. International students must submit their score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). For fall admission, final application deadline is February 15 . Inquiries are encouraged at any time, including those seeking advice on pre-admission curricula. Pam Mullinex, Graduate Committee Administrative Assistant; Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, PO Box 800736 Charlottesville, Virginia 22908-0736 Telephone: (434) 924-5108 Fax: (434) 982-1616 email: physiograd@virginia.edu
Students are awarded stipends of $24,000 per year plus tuition and fees ($11,250 per year for Virginia residents and $21,250 for out-of-state students), health insurance ($2,125), and a travel allowance for attending scientific conferences. Living and Housing Costs: There are dormitories on campus for both single and married students, as well as off-campus rooms and apartments for rent. Currently, dormitory fees average $3,000-$5,500 and board averages $3,000+ per year. Books and supplies average $1200 per year. All fees are subject to change. For comments & suggestions about this page:kaf2m@virginia.edu Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics #800736 UVa Health System Charlottesville, Virginia 22908 (434) 924-5108 (434) 982-1616 Last Modified:10/15/03 |
