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Education

Graduate Programs

PhD Program

The Ph.D. program in pharmacology at the University of Iowa is recognized both nationally and internationally.  Many graduates of the program have gone on to become leaders in the field of pharmacology. The emphasis of the Ph.D. program is on laboratory research as well as development of critical analysis and communication skills.  Students also gain knowledge of the field through course work in molecular and cell biology, human physiology and pharmacological sciences during the first two years of the program. Over the past five years, the time required to complete the Ph.D. degree has averaged 5.4 years.  Additional information about the program or to apply on-line, click here.

Interdisciplinary Programs

Faculty in the Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology participate in a number of interdisciplinary graduate programs within the University as well as in several programs which combine a professional degree (M.D., D.D.S., etc.) with the Ph.D. degree in pharmacology. For additional information or to apply on-line, click here


What our students say about pharmacology

We asked our students why they chose to study here, and their comments highlight the important features and benefits of our Department, the University, and Iowa City:

- Emily Hagan, 1st year Pharmacology student in Oliver Gramlich's lab

1.  What piece of advice you have for incoming students.

The best advice I can give to incoming students is that you need to take care of yourself because it's hard to be productive if you aren't allowing yourself some grace when things get overwhelming.

2.  What drew you to the University of Iowa

What really drew me to the University of Iowa was the wide range of research that is being conducted here at the school and having such variety is amazing when you are trying to find a lab to join. 

3.  What drew you to the Pharmacology Graduate Program

What drew me to the Pharmacology Graduate Program was being able to develop the expertise in basic and translational drug research to prepare myself for work in pharmaceutics. 

 

- Pravda Quinones-Labernik, 2nd year Pharmacology student in Ted Abel's lab

1.  What piece of advice you have for incoming students.

A piece of advice I would give to incoming students is to prioritize mentorship. Place emphasis on choosing a mentor and lab environment that will enable your growth and success rather than just the allure of a particular project.

2.  What drew you to the University of Iowa

Having begun my undergraduate journey at the University of Iowa, I made the decision to continue on to pursue my doctoral degree at this institution. The University of Iowa offers a warm and welcoming community that provides a strong sense of belonging and a fulfilling social experience, which influenced my choice to further my academic pursuits here.

3.  What drew you to the Pharmacology Graduate Program

I was particularly drawn to the Pharmacology Graduate Program due to its dedication to cutting-edge research, innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration. The program offers a challenging curriculum in a supportive environment implemented by esteemed faculty with diverse research expertise who are enthusiastic about providing guidance. Furthermore, the program organizes numerous seminars and retreats that enhance my understanding of pharmacology's broad impact on physiology and medicine.

 

- Cierra Boyer, 5th year Pharmacology student in Sam Stephens' lab

1.  What piece of advice you have for incoming students.

Graduate school is a marathon not a sprint, remember to take time for yourself and find a hobby that you enjoy!

2.  What drew you to the University of Iowa

I knew the University of Iowa was the right fit for me once I saw how collaborative and helpful everyone was to each other. "Iowa nice" is truly a thing here and made me feel right at home! 

3.  What drew you to the Pharmacology Graduate Program

I knew the Pharmacology Graduate Program was going to be the right program for me based on how friendly and helpful the faculty and staff were. They want nothing but success for us students and it shows through their hard work and many hours helping us. 

 

- Emese Kovacs, 5th year Pharmacology student in Marie Gaines' lab

1.  What piece of advice you have for incoming students.

Imposter's syndrome is very real and the truth is, we are all feeling it! If you tell your cohort and classmates how you are feeling, you will be amazed by how many people feel the same way as you and how having a good support system really helps with your academic career.

2.  What drew you to the University of Iowa

I liked Iowa because it is very collaborative environment. Everyone is genuinely interested in your progress and willing to help you personally and professionally.

3.  What drew you to the Pharmacology Graduate Program

The pharmacology department attracts people of various backgrounds and everyone studies something different. But by combining our efforts and backgrounds, we can help further science in a very exciting way!