Program Overview

The over-arching goal of the graduate program in Animal Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences (ABBS) is to rigorously prepare students for careers in academia and industry in an array of scientific disciplines. The program seeks to achieve this goal by providing students with extensive experience in hypothesis-driven research, including problem solving and experimental design. Research opportunities are provided in the areas of immunology, infectious disease, reproductive and developmental biology and cancer biology. Interdisciplinary collaboration of our research groups brings a wide variety of students to our laboratories, promotes interactions across campus and strengthens the learning environment.

Our graduate faculty members are committed to providing a quality graduate education to students through fundamental laboratory research, advanced coursework, and participation in journal clubs. Our course offerings provide a strong foundation in biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, immunology and infectious diseases, genetics, and developmental biology. Exposure to cutting-edge scientific discovery is provided by nationally recognized scientists via weekly departmental seminars.

The graduate program in Animal Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences offers programs of study leading to the Master of Science or the Doctor of Philosophy degree. A Fifth-Year Master of Science degree may be pursued by graduating seniors who have performed two or more semesters of independent research in the laboratory of an ABBS research faculty member and with the permission and guidance of that faculty member.