Graduate study in Pharmacology is designed to prepare candidates for research careers in academics, industry or government laboratories and agencies. The Ph.D. program in Pharmacology trains students in the fundamental principles of basic molecular and biochemical science, while also providing training in the principles of drug-receptor interactions, of experimental therapeutics and of drug discovery. Modern pharmacology also emphasizes new directions in gene therapy and pharmacogenetics. Students learn the conceptual and technical basis of research while performing mentored and, subsequently, independent research projects in laboratories equipped with state of the art technology and instrumentation.
Students will have the opportunity to join nationally recognized faculty research programs in investigating topics such as: Cardiovascular Disease and Obesity; Molecular Biology of Carcinogenesis and Metastasis; and Neurobiology of Aging and Neurodegenerative Disease, with emphases on memory, hormones, stress, and Type II Diabetes.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the graduate program is competitive and is based upon academic background, professional recommendations, performance on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), experience, and when possible, personal interviews. It is recommended that students have completed undergraduate courses in organic chemistry, calculus, physics, and biological sciences. The program of study is tailored to the individual background and career goals of the student and can often include interdepartmental study and research. Students are expected to participate in journal clubs and research seminars; to interact with visiting scholars; and to present the results of their research at local and national meetings. Financial aid is available for qualified students.
Admission to the Ph.D. program in Pharmacology is through the Integrated Biomedical Sciences (IBS) program. Information about the admissions process is available at https://www.uky.edu/academics/doctoral/integrated-biomedical-sciences-graduate
Direct admission to the program through the ‘apply yourself’ portal will occur only in exceptional cases and only after discussion with the Director of Graduate Studies. Please contact the DGS before applying or your application will be denied. The standard path for entrance into the Pharmacology PhD program is through the IBS program.
For information about the Ph.D. program in Pharmacology, please contact the Director of Graduate Studies, Department of Molecular and Biomedical Pharmacology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY 40536-0298. Information may also be obtained from https://www.uky.edu/academics/doctoral/collegeofmedicine/pharmacology-graduate
Degree Requirements
FIRST YEAR: Integrated Biomedical Sciences Courses
Required Courses in the Pharmacology Curriculum:
Advanced Pharmacology Electives:
Minimum 36 credits must be earned prior to the Qualifying Examination.
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