College: School of Medicine and Public Health
Designation: Department
Majors and degrees offered: M.S. in Biotechnology; M.S., Ph.D. in Physiology
Other: Ph.D. Minor in Physiology
Faculty: Professors Moss (chair), Chapman, Chiu, Czajkowski, Ervasti, Fettiplace, Jackson, Kemnitz, Lipton, Marriott, Oertel, Rhode, Valdivia, Walker, Yin, Ziskind-Conhaim; Associate Professors Alarid, Robertson; Assistant Professors Basso, Cai, Jones
The department provides doctoral training in mechanistic studies of the functions of molecules, cells, tissues, and organ systems. The training program features biochemical, molecular biological, biophysical, and systems approaches to studies of physiological processes in a variety of excitable and non-excitable tissues. Students gain knowledge and expertise through courses, from their research mentors, and by organized experiences in public speaking and teaching.
The program is interdisciplinary in approach to scientific research, reflecting the interests of its faculty and the breadth of a discipline that spans molecular, systems, and behavioral sciences. As a way of fostering greater breadth in training activities while providing the greatest flexibility and opportunity to graduate students, department faculty affiliate with other campus departments, training programs, and research centers. Faculty from other academic departments affiliate with physiology, thereby further increasing the breadth and depth of training. Graduate study in the department is comprehensive and rigorous. The program emphasizes the training of graduate students for careers in biomedical research, biotechnology, and academic teaching.
Admission is competitive. In addition to the online application, applicants for admission must submit official transcripts from each previous undergraduate and postgraduate institution, three letters of recommendation from professors who are familiar with the student's scientific background, a one-page personal statement describing research experience and indicating faculty with research activities of interest to the student, Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores, and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam scores (international students only).
The M.S. in biotechnology provides students with an overarching view of modern biotechnology operations, addressing fundamental scientific and legal matters, innovative technologies and complex business issues. Students thrive in an environment rich in academic and industrial collaboration, leaving the program prepared to assume leadership roles in the biotechnology industry. Practical and results oriented, this two-year program provides the foundation necessary for succeeding and advancing in one of the fastest growing and most complex industries in the world. Top-rated UW-Madison faculty and talented business partners in Wisconsin combine their expertise to provide hands-on, problem-solving experiences while offering flexible schedules for students, including convenient weekend and evening courses.
In addition to the online application, applicants must submit official transcripts from each previous undergraduate and postgraduate institution; three references from teachers, supervisors, or researchers; a statement of purpose containing reasons and goals for graduate study; professional resume; and a list of awards, honors, or publications. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required for admission. When all application materials have been received, a personal or phone interview will be scheduled. Students admitted to the program are expected to own a laptop with wireless connectivity for use throughout their program experience.