University of Michigan

What you'll study

This research-led PhD programme integrates coursework and independent research in visual communication, biomedical science and computational informatics. Key areas of study include advanced medical and biological illustration, visual perception and design principles, medical imaging and image processing, three-dimensional modelling and animation, human–computer interaction for health, visual analytics and information visualisation, machine learning for medical images, and research methods and statistics.

• Core components: advanced seminars in visualisation theory, research methods in informatics, and anatomy for visual communicators.
• Technical modules: courses in computational imaging, 3D modelling and animation pipelines, data visualisation, and applied machine learning for biomedical datasets.
• Practical training: portfolio development, studio practice in medical illustration techniques, workshops on software tools (e.g. 3D sculpting, volume rendering, VR/AR prototyping), and teaching experience.
• Research and thesis: independent research under supervisory guidance, qualifying examinations or proposal defence, and a dissertation based on original research that advances knowledge in medical visualisation or informatics.
• Collaborations and placements: opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with clinical departments, imaging centres and computational labs, and for placements with research groups, museums or industry partners.

Entry requirements

Admissions are competitive and expected qualifications include a relevant undergraduate degree and usually a master’s degree in informatics, biomedical science, computer science, graphic design/medical illustration or a closely related field, alongside evidence of research potential. Applicants should demonstrate a combination of technical skill and visual communication ability.

• Academic transcripts showing strong performance in relevant courses.
• A portfolio of visual work that demonstrates observational drawing, digital modelling/animation or information visualisation appropriate to medical and biological contexts.
• A research statement outlining proposed doctoral research questions and fit with potential supervisors or research groups.
• Curriculum vitae and several letters of recommendation attesting to academic and/or professional preparation for doctoral research.
• International applicants are typically required to meet English language proficiency standards.

Career prospects

Graduates from this field pursue diverse careers that bridge health, science, design and computing. Typical roles include academic and industry research positions, faculty or teaching posts in medical illustration and informatics, clinical visualisation specialists within hospitals or health systems, user experience and visual analytics roles in medical device and healthcare technology companies, scientific and medical communicators in publishing and museums, and consultant roles for regulatory submission visualisations and patient education.

• Research scientist in biomedical visualisation or health informatics.
• Senior medical illustrator/animator for medical education, surgical planning or patient materials.
• Data visualisation or UX lead for health-technology firms or start-ups.
• Academic lecturer or investigator in interdisciplinary programmes combining art, design and informatics.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers an interdisciplinary environment with access to a major academic medical centre, engineering and informatics expertise, and facilities for advanced imaging and computational research. Students benefit from collaboration opportunities across the Medical School, School of Information and other units, as well as access to high-performance computing resources, imaging cores and museum and library collections that support anatomical and historical reference work.

Supervisors and research groups at the university frequently work at the interface of design, human factors and clinical research, providing doctoral students with a strong network for translational projects, industry partnerships and diverse career pathways.