PhD Programs in Biomedical Science

Person working in a lab

PIBS

An interdisciplinary umbrella program allows you to explore a variety of research opportunities before committing to a program, making your path flexible and adaptable.

 

Flexible Pathways

The Program in Biomedical Sciences (PIBS) is designed to offer students maximum flexibility during the first year of graduate studies. PIBS students receive full funding and benefits and can immediately begin training in one program or take a course of study compatible with several programs while completing research rotations. You can rotate with any of our 500+ faculty that make up one of the largest and most vibrant research communities in the country. At the end of the PIBS year, you choose a permanent program and will continue to be funded through defense and graduation.

Our team of support staff, program directors and academic advisors will help you pursue a career path of your choosing. From initial course selection, to exploring certificates and dual degrees, and finding a postdoc, we’re here for you!

Explore PIBS Programs

*In addition to admission through PIBS, these programs offer direct admission.
  • *Bioinformatics
  • Biological Chemistry
  • Cancer Biology
  • Cell & Developmental Biology
  • Cellular & Molecular Biology
  • Genetics & Genomics
  • *Health Infrastructures & Learning Systems
  • Immunology
  • Microbiology & Immunology
  • *Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology
  • Molecular & Cellular Pathology
  • Molecular & Integrative Physiology
  • *Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology

    • Explore PIBS Faculty

    The 500+ faculty affiliated with PIBS are engaged in interdisciplinary research projects and collaborations through the university and the world!

    The PIBS Faculty Database allows you to search by name, program or research topic.

    News Across PIBS Programs

     See All News Across PIBS Programs     Francis Collins MD PhD needle haystack
    News Release

    A gene discovery that changed cystic fibrosis care, and genetic research, forever

    Modern cystic fibrosis care at U-M Health includes medication based on genetic discoveries as well as many other options
         Members of Eugene Chen's laboratory with a basketball
    News Release

    A night of two national titles for U-M, as scientists and basketball players both triumph

    On the same night that the U-M men's basketball team triumphed in the NCAA tournament, U-M cardiovascular researchers won a national tournament of science
    Health Lab

    A protein tape-recorder enables scientists to measure and decode cellular processes at scale and over time

    A new tool, developed at the University of Michigan, acts as a tape recorder produced and maintained by the cell itself, enabling scientists to rewind back in time and view interactions on a large scale and over long periods of time.
         doctors drawn looking at big oversized lungs
    Health Lab

    The most effective prevention method for complications post lung transplant

    Out of the two most common treatments for chronic lung allograft dysfunction, a condition that can form after lung transplantation that has no treatment, a study from University of Michigan Health found that cyclosporine is not as effective as tacrolimus in preventing the condition.