Graduate Research Program
Cellular Biology and Anatomy
The PhD program in Cellular Biology and Anatomy offers two dynamic training tracks: the Anatomy Track and the Cellular Biology Track - designed to prepare the next generation of scientific leaders. Students benefit from
- personalized mentorship,
- state-of-the-art research facilities, and
- collaborative environment that fosters innovation and critical thinking.
The application cycle for Fall admission opens August 1 of the preceding year and closes April 1 of the admission year. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the departmental graduate committee.
Whether your goal is to pursue a career as a faculty scientist in a university or medical school, or to lead cutting-edge research in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry, our program provides the rigorous training and professional development needed to succeed and make a meaningful impact in the biomedical sciences.
State-of-the-Art Research Programs
The state-of-the-art research programs of our faculty explore basic and translational research studies in areas such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications.
The trainees from our program have moved on to pursue research careers at outstanding institutions around the world.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- An undergraduate and/or previous graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. International applicants’ transcripts must be converted to the U.S. system by the Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE).
- Previous degree and/or experience in a science or health-related field of study. Applicants with prior graduate or professional training, such as a master’s degree, receive special consideration.
- A minimum score of 90/120 on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or 6.5 on the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), if the applicant is from a region where English is not the first language.
- Three letters of recommendation must be provided by professors familiar with the applicant’s coursework or academic employment, initiative, and character.
COURSEWORK
Coursework and Training
Our PhD program is designed to provide comprehensive, hands-on training that equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel as independent scientists and educators.
Anatomy Track
Students build a strong foundation through core courses in human anatomy, histology, and physiology of the musculoskeletal system, body cavities, and nervous system.
Beyond the classroom, students gain real-world teaching experience by assisting in anatomy instruction—an invaluable step toward future faculty and academic leadership positions.
Cellular Biology Track
This track emphasizes molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, scientific methods, communication, and statistics. Students can further tailor their training with electives in genetics, immunology, inflammation, pharmacology, and advanced system-based courses covering cardiovascular, nervous, endocrine, respiratory, renal, and gastrointestinal biology.
Across both tracks, students develop essential scientific and professional skills through courses in grant writing, scientific communication, and biostatistics, preparing them to secure funding and effectively disseminate research.
In addition to coursework, every student
- Designs and defends a grant proposal for an original, high-impact research project.
- Conducts cutting-edge research with mentorship from accomplished faculty.
- Presents findings at seminars and national conferences.
- Participates in journal clubs that sharpen critical thinking and collaboration.
- Write and defend a doctoral dissertation, launching a career of scientific distinction.
STIPENDS
Stipends of $32,000 are available for all accepted PhD applicants.
Life in Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport-Bossier has so much to offer that you have to experience it. In partnership with our local Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau, we have some videos to share that only begin to tell the story of all there is to see and do in Northwest Louisiana. We hope you will choose LSU Health Shreveport as your place for learning, working and living!
