Elevate your research with a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences​

At UNT Health, the Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program offers a variety of specialization areas that allow you to tailor your research in order to align with your interests and career goals. These concentrations are designed in order to provide rigorous training while preparing you for advanced roles in academic, clinical and industry settings.

Specialized disciplines to choose from

You can focus your Ph.D. studies in one of the following research-intensive disciplines:

• Biochemistry and Cancer Biology: Investigate the genetic, molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer development and progression.
• Cell Biology, Immunology and Microbiology: Explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate immune responses and microbial interactions.
• Genetics: Dive deep into the genetic and epigenetic factors that influence human development and disease.
• Integrative Physiology: Investigate how organ systems function in health and disease with an emphasis on integrative, translational and systems-level research.
• Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacotherapy: Advance drug discovery and patient care by researching drug mechanisms, delivery systems and therapeutic strategies.
• Pharmacology and Neuroscience: Study the interaction between chemical compounds and the nervous system to develop therapies for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
• Structural Anatomy and Rehabilitation Science: Explore human structure and function through advanced study of musculoskeletal anatomy, biomechanics and rehabilitation techniques.
• Visual Sciences: Investigate the biology of vision by studying ocular diseases, visual system function and innovative treatments.
• Dual-degree programs: Pursue a PharmD/Ph.D. degree in collaboration with the College of Pharmacy or a D.O./Ph.D. degree in collaboration with the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Each concentration includes core coursework, specialized electives and lab rotations in order to prepare you for independent research in your chosen field.

Real-world alignment and flexibility

Additionally, UNT Health’s program ensures you will have opportunities to work on interdisciplinary projects and collaborate with research centers, clinical partners and public health experts. Therefore, your training will align with real-world challenges and professional demands.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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UNT Health’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program is built on a foundation of innovative, high-impact research. As a student, you’ll gain hands-on experience working alongside renowned faculty in well-equipped laboratories, clinical environments and interdisciplinary research centers. These opportunities are designed to help you develop the skills needed to solve complex biomedical challenges and make meaningful contributions to the field.

Areas of research strength

You will have access to dynamic research programs in areas such as:

• Cancer biology: Investigate the genetic, molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer development and progression.
• Aging and Alzheimer’s disease: Contribute to groundbreaking work on neurodegeneration, cognitive decline and aging-related disorders.
• Cardiovascular and metabolic disease: Explore research focused on hypertension, heart failure, diabetes and obesity.
• Microbiome and infectious diseases: Study host-pathogen interactions and microbial influences on health and disease.
• Genetics and precision medicine: Participate in research on gene expression, epigenetics and personalized therapies.
• Neuroscience and mental health: Conduct research on brain development, neurological disorders and mental health conditions.
• Biomedical data science: Use big data, AI and bioinformatics to drive discoveries in healthcare and drug development.

Interdisciplinary research environments

UNT Health fosters a collaborative culture through its centers and institutes, such as:

• North Texas Eye Research Institute
• Institute for Translational Research
• Center for Anatomical Sciences
• Center for Human Identification

Additionally, students can work on federally funded projects.

Mentorship and professional development

To start with, you’ll be matched with faculty mentors who support your research and professional growth. You’ll also have access to grant writing workshops, research seminars and publication support. In brief, these tools will prepare you for successful careers in academia, industry and government.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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UNT Health’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program is supported by advanced facilities and robust research infrastructure that empower you to pursue cutting-edge discoveries. These resources ensure you receive the training, mentorship and technology necessary in order to excel in biomedical science.

State-of-the-art research laboratories

UNT Health houses more than 30 high-performance laboratories across disciplines, all designed to support a wide array of biomedical research. Labs are supplied with equipment such as:

• Confocal and fluorescence microscopes for cellular imaging
• Flow cytometry systems for immunophenotyping and cell sorting
• Mass spectrometry and chromatography tools for proteomics and metabolomics
• Genomics and sequencing platforms for molecular biology and genetic analysis
• Biohazard level 2 and 2+ containment labs for microbiology and infectious disease studies

These technologies are accessible to students through shared research cores and training initiatives.

Research centers and institutes

UNT Health hosts multiple interdisciplinary research hubs, including:

• North Texas Eye Research Institute
• Institute for Translational Research
• Center for Anatomical Sciences
• Center for Human Identification

These institutes foster collaboration across departments and often offer grant-funded opportunities for student research.

Additional academic and technical support

In addition to research facilities, students benefit from:

• Professional development workshops: Focused on publishing, grant writing and presentations
• Student associations: Providing academic and peer support, networking and leadership opportunities
• Library and learning services: Access to thousands of biomedical journals, databases and interlibrary loan programs
• Secure data storage and analytics platforms: For managing large-scale biomedical datasets

A collaborative campus environment

UNT Health’s interdisciplinary model encourages cross-pollination between fields such as public health, pharmacology and clinical sciences. In addition, faculty mentors, postdoctoral fellows and peer researchers form a close-knit community that supports your success.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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UNT Health’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program is designed with career versatility in mind. While academic research remains a key focus, the curriculum, training and mentorship structure ensure that you are well-equipped for roles in areas such as industry, government, healthcare and emerging biomedical fields.

Career-readiness embedded in the curriculum

From the beginning of your doctoral journey, you’ll receive education that extends beyond technical research. The program integrates opportunities such as:

• Scientific communication training: Present your research confidently to both expert and non-expert audiences.
• Grant writing and publication workshops: Learn how to secure funding and publish in high-impact journals.
• Leadership and team science development: Prepare to manage teams, projects and collaborations.
• Courses in biomedical ethics, regulatory science and translational research: Gain insights into real-world applications of your research.

In sum, these core experiences build the transferable skills needed in today’s competitive job market.

Hands-on experience in translational and applied research

UNT Health emphasizes real-world problem solving, especially in fields such as:

• Biotech and pharmaceutical research and development
• Biomedical data science and artificial intelligence
• Public and global health
• Regulatory affairs and policy development

Students frequently collaborate on interdisciplinary projects involving the Institute for Translational Research and the North Texas Eye Research Institute, as well as external partners, giving you exposure to industry and clinical settings.

Career support and networking

UNT Health’s Office of Career Readiness offers assistance such as:

• Individualized career coaching
• Industry panels and networking events
• Job fairs focused on biomedical and health professions
• Alumni mentoring programs

Graduates from the program have secured positions at places such as government agencies, biotech firms, academic medical centers and research institutes across the country.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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UNT Health’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences curriculum provides a strong foundation in scientific principles while allowing you to dive deep into your area of specialization. The coursework is designed in order to build your research skills, broaden your biomedical knowledge and prepare you for a successful and flexible career in science.

Core courses that build your foundation

These core requirements ensure that every Ph.D. student at UNT Health develops both the technical and professional competencies needed for a successful career in biomedical research.

• Transferable Skills (BMSC 5108) – 1 SCH
• Seminar in Biomedical Sciences (BMSC 5140) – 1-3 SCH
• Lab Rotations (BMSC 6150) – 2 SCH
• Biomedical Ethics (BMSC 5160) – 1 SCH
• Principles of Scientific Communication (BMSC 5215) – 2 SCH
• Responsible Conduct of Research (BMSC 6101) – 1 SCH
• Grant Writing (BMSC 6102) – 1 SCH
• Experimental Design and Biostatistics (BMSC 6200) – 2 SCH
• Fundamentals of Biomedical Sciences I–IV (BMSC 6201-6204) – 2 SCH each (total of 8 SCH)
• Individual Research (BMSC 6998) – 6-20 SCH
• Doctoral Dissertation (BMSC 6395) – 6-30 SCH

These courses foster essential skills in areas such as research design, collaboration and communication, which are vital across all biomedical careers.

Research and dissertation milestones

The program also includes key milestones that ensure your academic and professional growth:

• Laboratory rotations: Engage in multiple labs to help identify your research mentor and project.
• Degree plan: Ensures you and your advisory committee are in agreement regarding which advanced electives you will complete.
• Oral qualifying exam: Assesses your readiness to begin dissertation research.
• Dissertation research proposal and seminar: Conduct original research under faculty guidance and present your findings to your advisory committee and the public.
• Final dissertation defense: Demonstrate the significance of your research and its contribution to the field.

Course schedules are typically flexible and tailored in collaboration with your faculty advisor in order to support your academic progress and research needs.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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Biomedical science Ph.D. holders are equipped for a wide range of fulfilling career paths, both within and beyond academia. Whether you’re passionate about discovery, innovation or policy, your training prepares you to make a lasting impact on science and healthcare.

Academic and research careers

Many graduates pursue traditional academic roles such as:

• Postdoctoral research fellowships: A common next step for further specialization and publication
• Tenure-track faculty positions: Teach, mentor and lead research labs at colleges and universities
• Research scientists: Contribute to discovery in academic institutions and teaching hospitals

These paths offer opportunities to push the boundaries of biomedical knowledge and shape the next generation of scientists.

Careers in industry and biotech

Ph.D. holders are in high demand across pharmaceutical, biotechnology and biomedical device companies in roles such as:

• Medical science liaison: Bridge science and sales by translating complex data for clinicians and stakeholders.
• Drug discovery and development scientist: Design and test novel therapeutics.
• Clinical research associate: Oversee clinical trials and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Regulatory affairs specialist: Navigate FDA requirements and product approval processes.

Your training in skills such as experimental design, data interpretation and communication makes you valuable across these roles.

Government, policy and public health roles

Biomedical scientists also play critical roles in areas such as:

• Public health agencies: Conduct population health research or evaluate health interventions.
• Science policy: Shape policies through work with governmental or nonprofit organizations.
• Federal research institutions: Work at agencies such as NIH, CDC or FDA on federally funded research

These roles allow you to contribute to large-scale impact on community and global health.

Alternative career paths

Many graduates leverage their Ph.D. into growing fields such as:

• Biomedical data science and informatics
• Science writing and communications
• Intellectual property and patent law
• Entrepreneurship in biotech or diagnostics

The flexibility of the UNT Health program means you graduate with the skills needed in order to shape your own unique career path.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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UNT Health’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program offers far more than academic training. It delivers a full spectrum of career development support to ensure you graduate as a confident, well-rounded professional ready for varied roles in science, healthcare and industry.

Individualized mentorship and professional guidance

From the start, you’re paired with dedicated faculty mentors who guide your research, help you set goals and offer career insight tailored to your aspirations. This relationship evolves as you advance through the program, providing continuous support in areas such as:

• Selecting research rotations and dissertation topics
• Navigating fellowship and grant applications
• Building professional networks and gaining exposure in your field

In addition, you’ll have access to career-focused advising from UNT Health’s Career Readiness Center.

Skill-building workshops and seminars

Throughout your doctoral journey, UNT Health provides targeted development opportunities such as:

• Grant writing and scientific publishing workshops
• Leadership and team science seminars
• Workshops on CV/resume writing, interviewing and job search strategies
• Presentation training for academic and industry audiences

In sum, these experiences help you build a professional portfolio that stands out in competitive job markets.

Networking and real-world exposure

You’ll be encouraged to have experiences such as:

• Presenting at regional and national conferences
• Participating in interdisciplinary research collaborations across UNT Health’s institutes
• Engaging with visiting speakers, alumni and employer panels
• Applying for internships or externships through research partners and career support services

This wide-ranging exposure helps you understand the biomedical landscape, make meaningful connections and explore diverse career paths.

Alumni success and institutional support

UNT Health’s graduates have gone on to successful roles in fields such as:

• Academic and clinical research
• Biotech and pharmaceutical development
• Government and regulatory agencies
• Medical communication and science policy

Our alumni network and career services team offer a strong foundation for lifelong professional growth.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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UNT Health’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program seeks applicants who are academically strong, research-focused and passionate about advancing biomedical discovery. The admissions process is designed in order to identify candidates who are well-prepared for the rigors of doctoral training and committed to making meaningful contributions to science.

Academic qualifications

In order to be eligible for admission, you must meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant science discipline (e.g., biology, chemistry, biomedical sciences or related field)
• Completion of core science courses is strongly recommended, but not required. Recommended courses includes:
  • General biology
  • Chemistry (including organic chemistry)
  • Biochemistry
  • Calculus or statistics

A master’s degree is not required but may strengthen your application if you have previous research experience.

Application materials

You must submit the following through BioMedCAS:

• Completed online application
• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Three letters of recommendation from either academic or professional references
• Statement of purpose outlining your research interests, career goals and reasons for applying
• Resume or CV detailing relevant academic, research or professional experience

However, GRE scores are not required for admission, which allows the admissions team to focus on your academic achievements and research potential.

International applicants

If you’re an international student, there are additional requirements such as:

• Official course-by-course transcript evaluation by WES
• Proof of English proficiency such as official reports showing a minimum score of 79 on the Internet-based TOEFL or a 6.5 on the IELTS. Find the full list of ways to meet language requirements on the Ph.D. application guide.

Once international applicants have accepted an offer of admission into a UNT Health program, the International Services Office will guide them through the pre-arrival and orientation process.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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Yes, UNT Health’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program offers competitive financial support such as stipends to help doctoral students focus on their research and academic goals without financial stress. These funding opportunities are available to both domestic and international students who qualify.

Graduate stipend support

All full-time Ph.D. students receive a graduate stipend that supports their cost of living while enrolled in the program. Key features include:

• Annual stipend: Approximately $35,000 (based on recent figures; subject to change)
• Duration: Stipends are typically provided for up to five years, contingent on satisfactory academic and research progress

This financial support allows you to dedicate your time to full-time study and research activities without needing external employment.

Research assistantships and fellowships

Additional financial support may come in the form of:

• University fellowships and scholarships: Competitive awards are available for incoming and current students with strong academic and research records
• Travel grants: Funding is available for students to present at scientific conferences and attend professional development events

These opportunities further strengthen your research experience and career readiness.

How to qualify

In order to be considered for financial support:

• First, submit your completed application
• Indicate your interest in financial aid within the application portal
• Maintain strong academic standing and demonstrate research potential during the admissions review process

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

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Yes, in addition to the base stipend, UNT Health offers a variety of supplemental funding opportunities to help you further reduce the financial burden of doctoral study. These include scholarships, fellowships, travel awards and research-based assistantships, each designed to support different phases of your academic journey.

Merit-based scholarships and fellowships

Outstanding applicants and continuing students may qualify for:

• Institutional scholarships awarded based on academic excellence, leadership or research potential
• Graduate fellowships offered by the College of Biomedical and Translational Sciences or through external organizations
• Support for students from underrepresented backgrounds in science

In order to be considered, students are encouraged to apply early and maintain a strong academic record throughout the program.

Conference and travel funding

CBTS actively supports student engagement in national and international conferences through funds such as:

• Travel grants: Cover airfare, lodging and registration costs
• Presentation support: For students who present posters or oral talks at professional meetings
• Networking support: In order to attend career development or industry events relevant to your field

These opportunities help you grow your professional network and strengthen your academic profile.

Grant writing and external funding support

UNT Health provides training and guidance to help students compete for external fellowships and research grants from agencies such as:

• National Institutes of Health
• National Science Foundation
• American Heart Association

Faculty mentors and career services staff are available in order to help you prepare strong applications and manage awarded funds.

Apply today in order to begin your journey toward expertise in the biomedical discipline that inspires you most.

Apply Today