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Cell Biology and Physiology

Graduate Programs

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Cell Biology and Physiology (MS)

This MS Degree program provides students with a sound understanding of current concepts in cell biology and physiology. The thesis research project teaches the fundamentals of scientific inquiry and trains the students in state-of-the-art research techniques. Submission of the thesis to a peer-reviewed journal is encouraged.
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Cell Biology and Physiology (PhD)

This PhD degree program is a comprehensive academic endeavor in cell biology and physiology. Although the research project of each PhD student will focus in an area of either cell biology or physiology, all students will be expected to have an understanding of key concepts in both disciplines. The research project will include independent inquiry and in-depth application of the scientific method. Publication of the research in peer-reviewed journals is expected.
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Faculty

See a full list of Cell Biology and Physiology department graduate faculty

Courses

See all Cell Biology and Physiology graduate courses
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Contact

4005 LSB
(801) 422-2006
cell@byu.edu
Department Website

Cell Biology is the study of the structure and function of the cell, the basic unit of life. Physiology is the study of the function and mechanisms of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems that make up living organisms. Combined, these branches of biology aim to understand such remarkable processes as how the heart develops and works to pump blood, how brain cells communicate with one another, how insulin regulates blood sugar, and how specific gene products determine the morphology and functional capacity of the nervous system. Building on a foundation of chemistry, physics, and biology, the emphasis on integrating molecular, cellular, systems, and whole-body function is what distinguishes the study of cell biology and physiology from other life sciences.

In addition to working with department faculty, graduate students have the option of performing cross disciplinary research with faculty members across campus.

The Department of Cell Biology and Physiology offers two graduate degrees: Cell Biology and Physiology—MS, and, Cell Biology and Physiology—PhD.

The department has approximately twenty graduate students enrolled each year. Students working toward a master’s degree generally complete all requirements within two years. PhD students generally complete all requirements in four to five years.

Physiology and Developmental Biology Administration

Fax: (801) 422-0004

Chair:  Michael D. Brown
Graduate Coordinator:  Jason Hansen
Program Manager:  Connie L. Provost

Resources and Opportunity

Program resources include the laboratories and equipment of department faculty within the Life Science Building. An electron microscope laboratory, with both transmission and scanning microscopes, is also located on campus. A DNA sequencing center is available in the Life Science Building.

Financial Assistance

The Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology offers the following forms of financial support: Teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and tuition awards. Specific endowment fund awards are also available.