Developmental Biology
General Information
Degree offered: Certificate program; Ph.D. offered through one of the participating departments (Biochemistry, Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Neurobiology, Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Environment)
Faculty working with students: 45
Students: 14
Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
Deadline for Fall 2008 Application: December 15 (priority deadline)
Spring Application: no
Part time study available: no
Test required: GRE general
Program Description
The University Program in Developmental Biology provides broad training in mechanisms of embryonic development, developmental genetics, development and evolution, and specialized training in a number of areas. The program offers a core curriculum in development and training in technologies that are of importance for research on current questions. Specializations include stem cell biology, embryonic patterning, morphogenesis, growth and proliferation control, apoptosis and signal transduction mechanisms that govern cell-cell communication. Development is studied at many levels from analysis including molecular structure, genetics, genomics, biochemistry, cell biology, and the evolution of developmental process. The program begins with a core course in development and participation in the developmental colloquium. Students rotate between labs in their first year to learn advantages of the different model systems and experimental approaches. Students then choose to work in one of the participating laboratories. A broad range of research resources is available for students including the Duke Marine Laboratory, Vivarium, shared equipment resources, and excellent science libraries.
Students may apply and be admitted directly to the Developmental Biology Program. Prior to the second year of study at Duke, students will identify a participating department in which they will earn their Ph.D. (Note: For international students in particular, designation on the application form of a department in addition to this program may be helpful in securing funding.)