Research Emphasis Areas
One of the many strengths of the Bioscience PhD Programs are the cross-departmental research emphasis areas. The research emphasis areas showcase a wide breadth of research excellence that the Bioscience PhD Programs and the University of Utah has to offer, as well as facilitate collaboration opportunities for students to become more engaged in specific research topics. Below are the eleven (11) research emphasis areas, each area will feature their community highlights, common courses, and faculty.
Cell Biology
Drug and Diagnostic Discovery and Development (4D)
Evolutionary Genetics and Genomics
Genome Engineering
This Research Emphasis builds on the long history of genome engineering at Utah. It brings together researchers across many departments who are interested in one or more of the following aspects of genome engineering:
- Tools. To develop new methods of genome engineering.
- Disease. To manipulate genomes to create models of inherited disorders, or to test potential treatments of disease.
- Synthetic biology. To modify genomes for the creation of new biochemical pathways in organisms, for the generation of natural compounds or new compounds that can accelerate pharmacology.
Immunobiology
Metabolism
The Metabolism Research community looks at the changes in cellular metabolism that drive a number of chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and more. The University of Utah has more than 65 faculty members researching innovative approaches to understand fundamental metabolism and to improve metabolic health.
Liaisons: Sihem Boudina & Katsu Funai
Microbial Biology and Pathogenesis
Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience
The brain is the most complex organ in the body; with unique cell physiology and functions. The Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience emphasis area includes faculty from colleges and departments across campus working on a variety of topics that include the molecular and cellular mechanisms of: behavior, neural circuit formation during embryonic development, etiology of neurological disorders and degenerative disease.
Liaisons: Rich Dorsky & Jason Shepherd
Stem Cells, Development and Regenerative Medicine
REA Application
Any group of faculty in the Program can apply to be recognized as a Research Emphasis Area (REA). The application form for establishing a Research Emphasis Area should be submitted to MB and BC Program Directors for approval.