We believe that scientists in the 21^stcentury need to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying normal and diseased states, and to connect those mechanisms to function in larger systems. Our research-based program develops knowledge of molecular targets, the nature and design of molecules that interact with those targets, and the ability to test those interactions in the context of physiological systems. This breadth of investigation – from molecules to whole animals – is represented by the diverse research programs of the participating faculty. The Department is also the focal point for the training program in Chemical Biology that provides the foundation for the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents.

Our trainees are uniquely equipped to pursue job opportunities in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries in addition to the academic career path. Recent graduates have moved on to post-doctoral positions at UC San Francisco, Harvard, Scripps, UT Southwestern, and other world class institutions. Our "older" alumni are on the faculty of medical schools, research universities, and liberal arts colleges, and are scientists in pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

The Physiology and Pharmacology Department is a member of the Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology (PMCB).  The admissions process is administered by this program, in conjunction with the Graduate Studies Office in the School of Medicine.  For an online application and instructions, go here. The PMCB web site is also a source of information to help students through graduate life at OHSU.

Two second year PH2 students win awards!

    Sarah Hackenmueller receives ARCS Scholarship

 The Portland chapter of the ARCS Foundation recently named PH2 student Sarah Hackenmueller as one of their new ARCS scholars.  This prestigious award provides $5000 for three years to PhD students who have been identified as "the best and brightest…. graduate students of exceptional academic promise."  Congratulations Sarah!

  Kinrin Yamanaka wins 2008 PMCB Director's Award

 PH2 student Kinrin Yamanaka received the Director's award for outstanding first year PMCB student.  The student is selected by the PMCB Director based on performance on coursework, comprehensive exam and rotations during the first year of graduate school.  Director Cheryl Maslen said "Kinrin was clearly the outstanding student this year based on those measures."  Congratulations Kinrin