Department of Cell Biology and Physiology

The Department of Cell Biology and Physiology was formed on July 1, 2022 as a merger of the former Departments of Anatomy & Cell Biology and Molecular & Integrative Physiology. Bringing together the complementary expertise and graduate programs of the two respective departments has greatly enhanced student opportunities for research and areas of focus. Strengths within the department include:

  • Cell Biology
  • Cellular and Integrative Physiology
  • Developmental and Reproductive Biology
  • Exercise and Metabolism
  • Neuroscience
  • Renal Biology

The common thread within the department is that all research is designed to understand biological function in health and disease. Faculty within the department generated over $4M in research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2023. Nearly all faculty members have served on national advisory committees to major funding agencies such as the NIH and Department of Defense and as reviewers and editors to major scientific publications. 

The department administers three separate graduate programs that include tailored didactic instruction and laboratory experiences to enable students to become effective independent researchers and instructors. Graduates of these programs have obtained positions in industry, government, and consulting, as well as faculty positions at the college, university, and medical/graduate school level. The department offers the Ph.D. degree, and the combined M.D./Ph.D. degrees in conjunction with the School of Medicine. An M.S. degree may be granted in appropriate circumstances.