Emory University

What you'll study

The curriculum provides both breadth and depth across biomedical engineering. Students typically study a combination of core and advanced subjects and tailor electives around their research. Areas of emphasis include:

• Biomaterials and tissue engineering — polymer and scaffold design, cell–material interactions, and approaches for regenerative therapies.
• Medical imaging and instrumentation — imaging physics, image reconstruction, optical and ultrasound instrumentation, and image-guided interventions.
• Biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering — musculoskeletal mechanics, prosthetics, wearable sensors and movement analysis.
• Biomedical signal processing and data science — biological signal analysis, machine learning for health data, and systems modelling.
• Regenerative medicine and therapeutics — stem cell technologies, controlled drug delivery and biologics engineering.

Coursework is complemented by seminars, journal clubs and workshops on research methods, statistics, experimental design and ethics. Students are expected to publish in peer-reviewed venues and present at conferences as part of their training.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate or master’s degree in biomedical engineering, engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, or a closely related discipline and demonstrate strong analytical and laboratory preparation. Typical supporting materials include:

• A detailed curriculum vitae or résumé outlining research experience.
• Academic transcripts showing a strong record in mathematics, physics and relevant sciences.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential.
• A personal statement describing research interests, career goals and fit with potential faculty advisors.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency as required by the university.

Research experience—such as honours projects, internships, publications or technical presentations—is strongly preferred. Prospective students are encouraged to review the programme’s specific application guidance for any additional requirements or test policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme move into a variety of research-focused careers. Common paths include:

• Academic research and faculty positions in biomedical engineering or related departments.
• Research scientist or R&D roles in medical device, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
• Translational scientist roles within clinical centres, hospital research institutes or start-ups that commercialise biomedical technologies.
• Technical leadership, regulatory science, and consulting positions that bridge engineering and healthcare delivery.

The programme’s emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and translational projects equips graduates to take roles that require both deep technical expertise and an understanding of clinical needs.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers a distinctive environment for biomedical engineering research through strong ties to its school of medicine, affiliated hospitals and nearby research organisations. Students benefit from collaborative faculty across engineering, basic science and clinical departments as well as access to state-of-the-art laboratories and core facilities. The university’s location provides opportunities for partnerships with industry, clinical trials and translational research initiatives, making it well suited for students who want to move ideas from bench to bedside.