PhD Programs

PhD Programs in Biomedical and Biological Sciences (PIBBS)

The goal of PIBBS is to recruit top caliber Ph.D. students in the biomedical and biological sciences to USC and to guide them in the identification of a mentor, lab, and research project that will provide rigorous scientific training, an outstanding Ph.D. thesis, and a strong foundation for a variety of science-related careers. The following interdisciplinary Ph.D. programs are part of PIBBS.

Cancer Biology & Genomics (CBG)

CBG capitalizes on our Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, one of the oldest National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States. A Comprehensive Cancer Center designation requires that clinical treatment of patients and scientific research are carried out side by side. The Norris has strength in all areas of cancer research, including clinical and basic research and epidemiology.

Development, Stem Cells, & Regenerative Medicine (DSR)

DSR benefits from our wonderful Center for Regenerative Medicine and our strength in stem cell research, tissue engineering and regeneration.

Infectious Diseases, Immunology & Pathogenesis (IDIP)

IDIP is a program focused on translating bench research to the bedside by investigating human organ systems in health and disease. It takes advantage of our outstanding clinical and basic scientists and the exciting interdisciplinary and collaborative atmosphere at USC.

Medical Biophysics (MBPH)

MBPH is a program seeks to answer important biomedical questions using all aspects of biophysics, with an emphasis on structural biology and biophysical methods and theories. Some faculty members of this program are located on the University Park (undergraduate) USC campus.

Molecular Medicine (MMED)

The Molecular Medicine PhD Program offers comprehensive research training at the intersection of medicine and molecular biology, equipping students with practical skills and a collaborative environment to make significant contributions to medical advancements.

Neuromedicine (NEUM)

The NEUM PhD program at Keck School of Medicine trains researchers to address neurological and neurodegenerative diseases through interdisciplinary approaches, equipping them with knowledge in disease biology, pathophysiology, model systems and data science, and the skills to conduct rigorous basic and translational research and develop cutting-edge technologies.