Academics
The Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences (GDBBS) at Emory University is active in fostering an environment of learning and enrichment. The division has about 400 graduate students in eight interdisciplinary PhD programs with an average time to degree of about 5.7 years. The GDBBS is committed to ensuring that scientific training is relevant to all graduates, including those students who wish to pursue a career outside the realm of academic research. We provide a greatly enriched curriculum and opportunities for students to obtain specialized training and internships in their specific area of interest. Students typically perform three rotations before affiliating with a faculty member for their dissertation research.
Emory Connects is a professional networking platform like LinkedIn created specifically for the Emory community. This tool is a great way to start building a professional network. Emory Connects users can connect with Emory alumni by searching degree, location, industry, company, and availability. Users can offer and receive career guidance, find nearby professionals in fields of interest, and join exclusive industry-based networking groups.
Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD)The NIH-funded IMSD program is a reflection of our commitment to increase the diversity of the scientific workforce. The program focuses on multi-level mentoring, research integrity, and career preparation and planning to foster competitive graduate school and postdoctoral applications. Fellows are appointed to the grant, but all students are welcome to attend program events and workshops. Additional information can be found on the IMSD website.
MentorNetThe GDBBS provides this service to students who wish to find an e-mentor in academic and non-academic careers on the MentorNet website.
Pathways Beyond the Professoriate (PBP)The Versatile PhD
The mission of the Versatile PhD is to help graduate students identify and prepare for possible non-academic careers. The Versatile PhD will help to demystify non-academic careers, revealing many interesting professions that can utilize the skills you are developing in graduate school. The Versatile PhD is a free community for all graduate students. Information can be found on the Versatile PhD website.
The GDBBS provides this as a resource for students who want advice on career management and access to a jobs board on the BioCareer Center website.
Internships provide graduate students with the opportunity to experience the work environment at a variety of non-academic sites. Examples include organizations involved in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, technology transfer, public policy, non-profits, journalism, and government. Since graduate school is so intensive, it is often difficult to find time for such an endeavor, but it is not out of the realm of possibility for the dedicated student. The GDBBS is currently assisting those interested to find suitable internships and each request will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Find out more about Internships on the Internships page.
Emory is one of 39 Universities offering this joint degree in the US. The Medical Sciences Training Program at Emory is supported by the University and the National Institutes of Health and offers the opportunity to integrate training in basic biomedical research with the medical degree. There is a separate application and admission process. Learn more about the program on the MD/PhD program website.
Master of Arts in BioethicsThe Master of Arts in Bioethics program at Emory University's Center for Ethics provides rigorous, advanced, and interdisciplinary training for professionals and students interested in social and ethical challenges in health care and the life sciences. Students in the program are connected with a dynamic network of experts, like-minded professionals, scholars, and resources in order to prepare themselves professionally to address ethical considerations in biomedicine. Learn more about the program on the MA in Bioethics website.
Master of Science in Clinical ResearchStudents pursuing a dissertation topic with strong clinical and translational emphasis may want to consider a joint Master of Science in Clinical Research. An additional year of course work is required. The degree will prepare you to participate in large clinical studies and to engage in research that will translate the findings of research laboratory to the patient's bedside. Stipend support for the additional year may be available. Learn more about the program on MSCR program website.
Certificate Program in Clinical and Translational ResearchThe Certificate Program in Translational Research is a multidisciplinary program of the Emory Laney Graduate School for PhD students, Emory postdocs and faculty members who seek to conduct research at the interface between basic science and clinical medicine. Learn more about the program on the Certificate Program in Translational Research website.
Non-Degree CourseworkMany of our students take advantage of courses offered in other departments and disciplines. Students have taken courses in Business, Law, Public Health, Math and Computer Sciences, etc. while pursuing the PhD.
