Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

This research-led PhD emphasises fundamental and translational questions in mitochondrial genetics, combining coursework with intensive laboratory investigation. Early in the programme students typically complete core graduate courses in molecular genetics, advanced genomics, statistics for bioinformatics and experimental design, followed by specialised seminars and electives in mitochondrial biology, metabolic regulation, and mitochondrial-nuclear interactions.

• Core topics: mitochondrial DNA replication and repair, mitochondrial gene expression, oxidative phosphorylation and bioenergetics, reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial dynamics (fission/fusion) and mitophagy.
• Experimental approaches: high-throughput sequencing and single-cell genomics, CRISPR/Cas and mitochondrial genome editing strategies, proteomics, metabolic flux analysis, live-cell imaging, and model organism genetics (yeast, C. elegans, Drosophila, mouse).
• Translational focus: mitochondrial contributions to neurodegeneration, cardiomyopathies, metabolic disease and ageing; approaches to diagnostics and therapeutic development including gene therapy and small-molecule modulators of mitochondrial function.
• Research training: rotating laboratory placements to select a dissertation mentor, participation in lab meetings and journal clubs, a qualifying examination or proposal defence, and completion of an original doctoral dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate degree (for example in biology, biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology or biomedical sciences) with substantial laboratory experience. Many successful applicants also hold a master’s degree or have published research, though a master’s is not strictly required if the undergraduate training and research record are strong.

• Academic preparation: strong performance in coursework in genetics, cell biology, molecular biology and quantitative subjects such as statistics or bioinformatics.
• Research experience: evidence of hands-on laboratory research (honours projects, internships, or employment) is important; experience with molecular techniques, model organisms or sequencing is highly valued.
• Supporting documents: academic transcripts, a detailed CV, at least three letters of recommendation (preferably including research supervisors), and a statement of research interests describing fit with mitochondrial genetics at the university.
• English language: where applicable, proof of English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent institutional requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for research careers in academic laboratories, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, clinical and diagnostic laboratories, and government or non-profit research organisations. Specific roles include:

• Principal investigator or postdoctoral researcher in basic and translational mitochondrial biology and genetics.
• Research scientist in biotech or pharma focusing on mitochondrial-targeted therapeutics, genetic therapies, or biomarker development.
• Bioinformatics scientist or computational biologist specialising in mitochondrial genomics and multi-omics data analysis.
• Clinical laboratory scientist or genetic counsellor pathway (with additional clinical training where required) working on diagnostic testing for mitochondrial disorders.
• Science policy, regulatory affairs or patent and intellectual property roles that value deep scientific training in genetics and mitochondrial function.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University’s Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences is embedded within a medical school environment and collaborates closely with affiliated hospitals and research institutes, providing access to clinical samples, translational research pipelines and interdisciplinary expertise. The programme benefits from faculty whose research spans mitochondrial biology, ageing, metabolism and human disease, enabling students to pursue both mechanistic and clinically oriented projects.

• Interdisciplinary environment: close links with clinical departments, biomedical engineering, and translational research centres support cross-disciplinary projects and technology development.
• Research infrastructure: core facilities for genomics, proteomics, imaging and metabolomics, and access to model organism and animal research resources.
• Mentoring and professional development: structured mentoring, grant-writing workshops, teaching opportunities and career development resources to prepare graduates for diverse career paths.