Pharmacology

  • Graduate Programs

    Graduate Program Profiles and Research Opportunities in the Department of Pharmacology 

    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.  For additional information about the program or to apply on-line, click here.

    Interdisciplinary Programs

    Faculty in the Department of 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:

    "The Department of Pharmacology at the University of Iowa is unparalleled in their commitment to student growth and success.  The collaborative environment found in the Department of Pharmacology supports the maturation of the student's ability to synthesize the opinions of many experts while problem solving.  Further, the collaborative environment ensures that students are not limited to employing the expertise of their mentor's laboratory alone.  I have been extremely fortunate to work with many different professors and to harness their expertise for the completion of my own research.  The department is also committed to supporting students traveling to conferences to present their research."
    - Andrew Slupe, 3rd year Pharmacology student in Stefan Strack's lab 

    "When choosing where I would pursue my graduate studies, the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Iowa stood out for several reasons.  The research interests of the department are diverse, from cancer to pain, allowing me to obtain a well rounded education and to be exposed to research at the forefront of a number of fields.  Further, UI fosters a collaborative environment and supports students in their pursuits, whether it be meeting guest speakers who are leaders in their respective field or attending a major national conference to present research.  All in all, University of Iowa has been the ideal place to pursue my PhD work."
    - Caitlin Runne, 3rd year Pharmacology student in Songhai Chen's lab 

    "Besides being impressed with the research that was being conducted in the department, I thoroughly enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and am very thankful for the help I received during my interview.  Having been in the program for a few years now, my initial impressions have persisted.  The accommodating attitudes of the faculty, staff and students have allowed me to forge fruitful collaborations and develop scientific skills relevant for my future career.  Science aside, Iowa City is an ideal place to live as it is safe and the cost of living is very affordable.
    - Lipin Loo, 4th year Pharmacology student in Durga (DP) Mohapatra's lab 

    "The University of Iowa is an institution that not only ranks high in the nation for its excellence in biomedical research but also takes pride in its commitment to scholarship and outstanding research collaboration.  During my time here at the University of Iowa I have been impressed with student, faculty and staff support of these very hallmarks that make this university a success.  The department of Pharmacology has a strong commitment to collaborative research both within and beyond the department and support provided by the faculty and staff is incomparable to other universities I've visited."
    - Elizabeth Oberg, 5th year Pharmacology student in Stefan Strack's lab