Ashland University

What you'll study

Coursework and research follow the faculty expertise described for Professor Posner. Areas you will encounter include:

• Cell Biology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Vertebrate Biology and Marine Biology
• Molecular Biology and molecular techniques applied to gene identification and characterization
• Developmental genetics focused on eye lens formation and transparency
• Professional development for science majors

Research training is centered on using zebrafish as a model organism to investigate genes involved in lens development and mechanisms that prevent cataracts.

Entry requirements

The provided source does not list formal program entry requirements. Prospective applicants should consult the university’s graduate admissions pages or contact Professor Posner directly for up‑to‑date application criteria and prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates trained in this research area are prepared for laboratory research roles in biomedical science, vision research, developmental biology, toxicology, or environmental biology. The programme’s strong emphasis on molecular techniques, model‑organism work, and undergraduate mentoring also supports academic careers that combine teaching and research, as well as positions in research institutions or grant‑funded projects.

Scholarships & funding angle

Professor Posner helped establish Ashland’s Choose Ohio First scholarship program and remains a co‑director; that initiative has brought over $1.7 million in state funds to support scholarships in the natural sciences, mathematics, and computer science. Posner’s research has attracted substantial external support as well, with more than $1.3 million in NIH funding since 2001, which indicates active grant activity in his group that may create research assistantship or funding opportunities for graduate students. For specific scholarship or assistantship availability, contact the department or program administrators.