PhD in Biomedical Sciences

The biomedical sciences program in the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University is designed to train graduates for innovative and dynamic research careers in academic medicine, government, and health sciences institutions and industries that focus on this exciting and fast-moving field. 

The well-balanced program offers students new pathways for learning and discovery though a broad interdisciplinary and translational training approach. Our mission is to educate premier biomedical scientists who will be tomorrow’s research leaders in the U.S. and around the world. Here, you’ll work with renowned faculty and accomplished research scientists in state-of-the-art research facilities as well as innovative clinical and research centers.

Biomedical Sciences PhD Concentrations

Students take a common core curriculum in the first year that fosters interactions and teamwork with their peers. The Biomedical Sciences PhD offers five concentrations through which students will specialize their training after exposure to various research specialties: cancer biology and genetics, infectious disease and immunity, molecular and cellular biosciences, neuroscience, and organ systems and translational medicine. Learn more about each.

What sets apart the Biomedical Sciences PhD at Katz?

• High faculty-to-student ratio: PhD students receive outstanding mentoring from their advisors and faculty—all of whom are premier and accomplished researchers with national and international reputations.  

• Ample independent study and research opportunities: This dynamic program challenges students to think logically and creatively and to express themselves independently. 

• Training at world-class research centers: Within the five broad specialty clusters, PhD candidates work closely in Lewis Katz School of Medicine’s respected disease-based research centers with their advisors and faculty—all of whom are premier researchers in their respective fields. Such in-depth involvement with cutting-edge research makes the PhD an exceptional way to jumpstart a meaningful career in biomedical research. 

Program Format & Curriculum  

The doctor of philosophy degree in biomedical sciences curriculum is a full-time, 37-credit program that typically takes just over five years, but must be completed within seven years. Learn more about Biomedical Sciences PhD courses.

The program is housed on the Temple University Health Sciences Center (HSC) campus. Elective courses not offered at HSC may be taken at other campuses with permission from the student’s research advisory committee. 

First-year Common Core Curriculum 

The program’s interdisciplinary approach starts with a common core curriculum in the first year that includes courses including Molecules to Cells; Experimental Design and Biostatistics; Scientific Integrity, Organ Systems: Function, Dysfunction and Therapies; Bioinformatics; and Scientific Communication. Students work together, fostering interactions and teamwork. 

In addition, PhD students complete three laboratory rotations. In subsequent years, PhD students take additional advance concentration-specific elective courses, participate in seminars and journal clubs, perform research in the laboratory of their choice, and write and defend a thesis. 

Program Contacts

Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program
Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
3500 N. Broad St., MERB 1111
Philadelphia, PA 19140

Victor Rizzo, PhD, FAHA
Associate dean, graduate studies 
Email: victor.rizzo@temple.edu
Phone: 215-707-9863 

Scott K. Shore, PhD 
Associate dean for graduate studies and postbaccalaureate programs 
Email: sks@temple.edu 
Phone: 215-707-5072