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Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences Program
Mercer’s Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences Program is a five-year graduate program designed to provide high-quality training to prepare graduates for a successful career in biomedical research, whether in academia, a biotech company, hospital, or laboratory.
Upon completing the Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a broad base of established and evolving knowledge within a chosen discipline and detailed knowledge of a specific research area.
- Design sound research protocols, safely perform techniques necessary to conduct and analyze their research and navigate the grant application and scientific publishing processes.
- Demonstrate interpersonal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with colleagues at all levels and present research to scientific and lay audiences.
- Understand the importance of adhering to professional standards and practices within the workplace, institution and discipline.
- Develop skills that improve confidence and identity, strengthen personal resources, enhance quality of life, and contribute to the realization of aspirations.
Curriculum
YEAR 1
Fall Semester (15 credit hours)
- BMS 610: Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics
- BMS 622: Microbial Pathogenesis
- BMS 612: Molecular Cell Biology
Spring Semester (16 credit hours)
- BMS 620: Human Physiology
- Elective: Choose one from the following:
- BMS 611: Human Immunity
- BMS 621: Human Development
- BMS 626: Biomolecular Engineering
- BMS 728: Neuroscience
- BMS 711: Research Seminar
- BMS 725: Introduction to Faculty Research
Summer Semester (12 credit hours)
- Comprehensive Exam covering all biomedical concepts taught in first two semesters
- BMS 714: Responsible Conduct of Research
- BMS 737: Pedagogical Methods in Health Sciences
- BMS 738: Introduction to Research
YEAR 2
Fall Semester (13 credit hours)
- RRL 823: Interdisciplinary Research Methods
- BMS 801: Research Seminar
- BMS 800: Independent Research I
Spring Semester (16 credit hours)
- Elective
- BMS 802: Independent Research II
- BMS 803: Research Seminar
YEAR 3
Fall Semester (14 credit hours)
- BMS 806: Doctoral Research II
- BMS 807: Research Seminar
- BMS 845: Teaching Practicum I
Spring Semester (14 credit hours)
- BMS 808: Doctoral Research III
- BMS 809: Research Seminar
- BMS 846: Teaching Practicum II
Summer Semester (13 credit hours)
- BMS 810: Doctoral Research IV
- BMS 811: Research Seminar
YEAR 4
Fall Semester (16 credit hours)
- BMS 812: Doctoral Research V
- BMS 813: Research Seminar
- BMS 847: MD Teaching Practicum
Spring Semester (16 credit hours)
- BMS 814: Doctoral Research VI
- BMS 815: Research Seminar
- BMS 848: MS Teaching Practicum
Summer Semester (13 credit hours)
- BMS 816: Doctoral Research VII
- BMS 817: Research Seminar
YEAR 5
Fall Semester (16 credit hours)
- BMS 812: Doctoral Research V
- BMS 813: Research Seminar
- BMS 847: MD Teaching Practicum
Spring Semester (16 credit hours)
- BMS 814: Doctoral Research VI
- BMS 815: Research Seminar
- BMS 848: MS Teaching Practicum
Summer Semester (13 credit hours)
- BMS 816: Doctoral Research VII
- BMS 817: Research Seminar
BMS 610 Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in biochemistry and molecular genetics is for students to understand the chemical and biomolecular composition of the human body, the importance of buffering and solute concentrations in physiological function, the metabolic processes that provide energy to sustain tissue viability, the structure and dynamics of genetic material, the regulation of gene expression, and the principles of genetic inheritance. This learning goal will be achieved by students through problem-solving in the classroom, discussion of medical case scenarios, and analysis of the biochemistry and genetics research literature.
BMS 611: Human Immunity (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in the human immune system is for students to understand the development and organization of the human immune system, the genetic and molecular mechanisms of immunity, the role of inflammation in immunity, the initiation and detection of immune responses, and the use of vaccines to support human immunity. This learning goal will be achieved by students through problem-solving in the classroom, discussion of medical case scenarios, and analysis of the immunology research literature. Prerequisites: BMS 610, BMS 622, BMS 612
BMS 612 Molecular Cell Biology (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in molecular cellular biology is for students to understand the fundamental structure of human cells, the function of intracellular organelles, the dynamics of organelles in different cell types, the cellular interactions within tissues to support tissue function, and the biomolecular interactions required for cellular function. This learning goal will be achieved by students through a combination of interactive lectures, problem-solving in the classroom, discussion of medical case scenarios, and analysis of the molecular biology and cell biology research literature.
BMS 620 Human Physiology (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in human physiology is for students to develop an understanding of the function of the human body, building upon their prior knowledge of human biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics. This course deals with body fluid compartments and body systems organization and function, with special emphasis on the nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, and urinary systems. Students will examine the concepts of homeostasis and regulatory mechanisms as they are applied in the various body functions. The learning goal will be achieved through a combination of interactive lectures, group discussions, problem-solving exercises, and medical case-based activities. (prerequisites – BMS 610, 611 and 612)
BMS 621 Human Development (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in human development is for students to understand the process of human development, the determinants of embryonic development, the differentiation and organization of cells into functional tissues and organs, the maternal contribution to embryonic and fetal development, the environmental and physiological risks to human development, and the basic functional anatomy of the human body. This learning goal will be achieved by students through classroom discussion, interaction with animated programs depicting developmental processes, histological analysis of human tissues, and observation of human cadavers and plastinated models of human tissues. (prerequisites – BMS 610, 611 and 612)
BMS 622: Microbial Pathogenesis (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in microbial pathogenesis is for students to understand the structural and genetic differences between human cells, bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses, the variations in structure among members of pathogenic species, the metabolic and genetic properties of microbes that facilitate their adaptation to different environments, the commensal relationship between humans and microbes, the mechanisms of microbial and viral pathogenesis, and the basic laboratory culture conditions and tests for human microbial pathogens. This learning goal will be achieved by students through problem-solving in the classroom and discussion of medical cases and research literature that illustrate clinical application of microbiology principles. Prerequisites: BMS 610, BMS 612, BMS 622
BMS 626 Biomolecular Engineering (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in bimolecular engineering is for students to understand the principles and techniques resulting in directed biological alteration at the molecular and cellular scale. This course introduces students to bioengineering methodology spanning advanced recombinant DNA technology and delivery methodology, protein engineering leading to altered structure and function (proteomics), genetic and genomic editing (genomics), bioimaging, biosensing, chip technology, and cell-based assay systems. Students will examine bimolecular engineering concepts as they relate to medical and commercial applications in health care, biomedical, pharmaceutical, biomaterials, and other biotechnology related industries. This learning will be achieved by students through classroom and group discussion of relevant research literature and student presentations that illustrate concepts in biomolecular engineering. Prerequisites: BMS 610, BMS 612, BMS 622
BMS 711 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Also BMS 801, BMS 803, BMS 805, BMS 807, BMS 809, BMS 811, BMS 813, BMS 815, BMS 817, BMS 819, BMS 821
BMS 714 Responsible Conduct of Research (1 credit hour)
The goal of this course is to examine ethical issues related to scientific research. Students will be introduced to ethical issues related to data management and analysis, collaborations, publications and authorship roles, conflicts of interest, and human and animal research.
BMS 725 Introduction to Faculty Research (1 semester hours)
The goal of this course is to introduce students to research methods and topics studied by faculty in the Department of Biomedical Sciences. Research faculty will give informational talks related to their specific research projects.
BMS 728 Neuroscience (5 credit hours)
The goal for the instruction in neuroscience is to examine the anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology of the central and peripheral divisions of the nervous system. This course introduces students to neuronal function, synaptic transmission, sensory processing, movement, sleep and wakefulness, hunger, thirst, caloric and body fluid homeostasis, recovery of function after brain damage, and various neurological and psychiatric disorders. This learning goal will be achieved by students through problem-solving in the classroom and discussion of medical cases and research literature that illustrate clinical application of neuroscience principles. Prerequisites: BMS 610, BMS 612, BMS 622
BMS 737 Pedagogical Methods in Health Sciences (3 credit hours)
The goal for this course is to educate members of the health professions in an interdisciplinary and interactive way to obtain, expand, and improve their teaching skills. The skills learned in this course can be applied within varied professional contexts and with a variety of learners.
BMS 738 Introduction to Research (10 credit hours)
In this course, students will learn basic laboratory methods and explore laboratory research projects. This course will include a “Laboratory Boot Camp,” which is a two-week session with hands-on, interactive laboratory exercises designed to teach basic laboratory methods. Following the Boot Camp, students will complete two, three-week laboratory rotations where they will work in a laboratory of their choice. Students will choose a research mentor and spend the final eight weeks of the semester in the laboratory as they begin their research project.
BMS 800 Independent Research I (10 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 738.
BMS 801 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 711.
BMS 802 Independent Research II (10 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 800.
BMS 803 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 801.
BMS 804 Doctoral Research I (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 802.
BMS 805 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 831.
BMS 806 Doctoral Research II (10 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 804.
BMS 807 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 805.
BMS 808 Doctoral Research III (10 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 806.
BMS 809 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 807.
BMS 810 Doctoral Research IV (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 808.
BMS 811 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 809.
BMS 812 Doctoral Research V (10 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 810.
BMS 813 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 811.
BMS 814 Doctoral Research VI (10 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 812.
BMS 815 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 813.
BMS 816 Doctoral Research VII (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 814.
BMS 817 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 815.
BMS 818 Doctoral Research VIII (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 816.
BMS 819 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 817.
BMS 820 Doctoral Research IX (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 818.
BMS 821 Research Seminar (1 credit hour)
In this course students will participate in a research seminar series, during which they will attend presentations by MUSM faculty and visiting speakers. This course includes required, regular attendance at the Department of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Program, delivered between the Macon, Savannah, and Columbus campuses by real-time video connection. Students will become broadly familiar with scientific approaches and various research topics. Students will also present their thesis research to an audience consisting of faculty and students. The objective of this course is to prepare students to become competent scientific communicators. Continuation of BMS 819.
BMS 822 Dissertation (1 credit hour)
Preparation of dissertation and defense.
BMS 840 Scientific Communications (1 credit hour)
This course focuses on writing and presentation skills needed for a career in biomedical sciences. It provides basic instruction in writing abstracts, curriculum vitae, and grant applications. Students will also learn to organize and give scientific presentations. The basic aspects of teaching skills needed for education of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students will also be covered.
BMS 846 Teaching Practicum II (3 credit hours)
The goal of this course is for students to gain teaching experience in a degree program. Students may choose to serve as a teaching assistant as part of the MS, MD, or undergraduate curriculum. Student responsibilities may include lecturing, managing team-based learning activities, setting up laboratory exercises, and/or facilitating small group discussions. Prerequisite: BMS 737
BMS 847 MD Teaching Practicum (5 credit hours)
The goal of this course is for students to gain teaching experience in the MD degree program. Student responsibilities may include lecturing, managing team-based learning activities, and/or facilitating small group discussions. Prerequisite: BMS 737
BMS 848 MS Teaching Practicum (5 credit hours)
The goal of this course is for students to gain teaching experience in the MS degree program. Student responsibilities may include lecturing, managing team-based learning activities, and/or facilitating small group discussions. Prerequisite: BMS 737
BMS 849 Teaching Practicum III (optional) (3 credit hours)
The goal of this course is for students to gain teaching experience in a degree program. Students may choose to serve as a teaching assistant as part of the MS, MD, or undergraduate curriculum. Student responsibilities may include lecturing, managing team-based learning activities, setting up laboratory exercises, and/or facilitating small group discussions. Prerequisite: BMS 737, BMS 845, BMS 846, BMS 847
RRL 813 Interdisciplinary Research Methods (3 credit hours)
This course begins a two-course series on the interdisciplinary research methods necessary to effectively conduct research and evaluation studies within rural communities. The course draws primarily from the fields of psychology, sociology, epidemiology, and biostatistics. Topics include research ethics, internal and external validity, confounding, hypotheses and research questions, and quantitative study design, including levels of measurement; conceptualization and operationalization; correlation and causation, p-values, error, and bias; moderation and mediation; parametric vs. non-parametric, descriptive and inferential statistics; data entry, coding, and cleaning; levels of prevention/intervention; measures of disease burden and risk; and diagnostic/screening characteristics.
If needed:
BMS 824 Doctoral Research X (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 820.
BMS 826 Doctoral Research XI (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 824.
BMS 827 Doctoral Research XII (12 credit hours)
Dissertation research. Continuation of BMS 826.