University of Michigan

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with sustained laboratory research. Early stages typically include core subjects such as cellular and molecular physiology, systems physiology (cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, neurophysiology and endocrine systems), signal transduction, and pathophysiology of disease. You will also take classes in experimental design, statistics/biostatistics, and research ethics.

Students usually undertake a series of laboratory rotations to identify a dissertation laboratory and mentor. After selecting a research group, the focus shifts to an original research project under faculty supervision, with formal milestones including a qualifying/competency examination, a dissertation proposal, and the dissertation defence. Seminars, journal clubs and department-wide research symposia form a continuous part of training, and opportunities exist for teaching assistantships and mentoring undergraduate or master's students.

• Core coursework: molecular and cellular physiology, systems physiology, pathophysiology
• Skills training: experimental design, quantitative analysis, advanced microscopy, electrophysiology, imaging, omics technologies
• Professional development: grant writing, scientific communication, ethics and reproducibility, career workshops
• Research rotations leading to dissertation research in areas such as cardiovascular biology, neurophysiology, renal physiology, metabolic disease, immunopathology and cancer biology

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a strong bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (for example biology, physiology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering) or a master’s degree with substantial laboratory experience. Successful applicants typically demonstrate evidence of research potential through prior lab work, publications or technical experience.

Application materials normally include a CV, academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining research interests and fit with potential faculty mentors, and letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency where required by the university. Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) vary and applicants should consult the programme for current policy.

Career prospects

Graduates from this PhD programme pursue a wide range of careers. Many continue in academic research and teaching as postdoctoral researchers and faculty members. Others move into industry roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical device companies, or contract research organisations, working in discovery, translational research, or clinical development.

Additional career paths include positions in science policy, regulatory affairs, scientific writing and communication, patent law (with further training), research management, and applied data science in healthcare. The programme’s emphasis on rigorous experimental training and professional development prepares students for both research-intensive and leadership roles across sectors.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment with access to major research facilities and core technology platforms. Students benefit from connections across the Medical School, Life Sciences Institute and related centres, enabling cross-departmental mentorship and translational opportunities.

State-of-the-art laboratories, a strong culture of mentorship, and structured professional development resources (including workshops, teaching training and career services) support doctoral training. The Ann Arbor campus provides a vibrant academic community and proximity to a large university hospital system, which fosters clinically relevant research and collaboration with clinicians and engineers.

Funding support for doctoral students typically comes from a combination of faculty grants, institutional fellowships and teaching appointments, allowing trainees to focus on research and career preparation within a supportive environment.