The Department of Cell and Neurobiology provides interdisciplinary training in molecular, cellular and systems biology. Ongoing programs explore basic mechanisms in molecular and cellular neurobiology, neurogenetics, endocrinology, pharmacology, embryogenesis, skeletal muscle plasticity, cell biology, vertebrate evolution, and nutrition/drug interactions. Disease-oriented research, bridging basic and clinical disciplines, investigates inherited or acquired disorders in vision, liver metabolism and endocrinology. The challenge is to weld interdisciplinary activities into a conduit for transferring basic science discoveries into more effective and innovative clinical interventions in the treatment of disease-related disabilities.

The graduate program of the Department of Cell and Neurobiology is dedicated to excellence and state-of-the-art training and education in molecular and cellular aspects of normal function and in acquired or genetic disorders that cause human disease. Highly qualified students are selected for admission each year from a pool of domestic and international applicants. Professional and intellectual development is fostered through a broadly based curriculum from which students can tailor a menu of specialization and by a supportive environment of faculty interactions. Graduate education is designed to prepare the student for a lifetime of learning, exploring the limits of research, teaching and creative activities. Teaching experience and expertise can be developed in several areas including cell biology, histology, gross anatomy, neuroanatomy, embryology, and pharmacology.

Graduate education is designed to prepare the student for a lifetime of learning, exploring the limits of research, teaching and creative activities.