University of Oregon

What you'll study

This research-focused PhD integrates theory and practice across medical illustration, data and clinical informatics, computer graphics, and human–computer interaction. Programme components typically include advanced coursework in visualisation theory and practice, computational methods for biomedical image analysis, anatomy and physiological modelling for visual communication, user-centred design and evaluation methods, and ethics and policy in health data.

• Core research methods: experimental design, statistics for researchers, qualitative and mixed-methods approaches.
• Informatics and computation: biomedical image processing, data visualisation, machine learning for healthcare data, databases and interoperability.
• Visualisation and illustration: visual storytelling for biomedical topics, 3D modelling and animation, VR/AR for medical education, colour theory and perceptual principles.
• Human-centred design and evaluation: usability testing, cognitive load assessment, accessibility and inclusive design for clinical tools.
• Electives and collaborations: courses or project work in computational biology, clinical decision support, scientific communication, or interactive media depending on research focus.

Structure normally comprises a period of advanced coursework and research training, a qualifying or comprehensive examination, development of an original research proposal, followed by supervised dissertation research leading to a defended thesis. Students typically work closely with faculty across departments, and may participate in lab rotations, collaborative projects with clinical partners, and community-facing outreach or teaching.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants usually hold a master's degree (or equivalent) in medical illustration, informatics, computer science, biomedical sciences, design, or a closely related discipline; strong candidates with a relevant bachelor's plus substantial professional or research experience may also be considered. Applications should demonstrate both technical competence and visual communication ability.

• Academic transcripts showing relevant prior study.
• A research statement outlining proposed doctoral research questions or areas of interest.
• A portfolio of visual work demonstrating ability in scientific/medical illustration or visualisation (for applicants from visual disciplines).
• Curriculum vitae detailing research, technical and creative experience.
• Academic or professional references commenting on research potential and relevant skills.
• Proof of English language proficiency where required for international applicants.

Some units may request GRE scores or additional materials; prospective students are advised to contact the programme or potential supervisors to discuss fit and available supervision before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD are prepared for a wide range of research-led and leadership roles where deep expertise in both biomedical visual communication and informatics is required. Typical career paths include:

• Academic researcher or faculty positions in medical illustration, informatics, visualisation, HCI or related departments.
• Senior medical illustrator or visualisation lead in hospitals, teaching hospitals and medical schools, producing curricula, patient education and research visualisations.
• Research scientist or data visualisation specialist in biomedical and medical device companies, clinical research organisations and health technology firms.
• Product or UX researcher for health IT, focusing on design and evaluation of clinical decision support, telehealth interfaces and immersive training tools.
• Science and health communication roles in museums, publishing, regulatory agencies or non-profit organisations where accurate visual communication is critical.
• Consultancy and entrepreneurial opportunities building tools, platforms or services that bridge medical illustration and informatics.

Why study at University of Oregon

The University of Oregon offers an interdisciplinary environment that supports the convergence of arts, design and computational science. Students benefit from collaboration across campus units—such as computing and data science, biology and health-related partners—and from proximity to clinical and research organisations in the region. The university provides access to specialised facilities commonly used by students in this field, including advanced visualisation studios, 3D printing and fabrication labs, and immersive/VR equipment.

Faculty working with the programme typically bring mixed backgrounds in biomedical visualisation, informatics, HCI and design research, enabling students to pursue projects that blend creative practice with rigorous computational methods. The campus culture emphasises applied research, community engagement and translation of work into educational resources, clinical tools and public-facing communication, making it a strong setting for doctoral study that aims to impact both scholarship and practice in health and biomedical communication.