Pharmacology is the science concerned with all aspects of the action of drugs and other chemicals on living systems. Its primary aim is the discovery of chemical mechanisms by which cellular and molecular functions are regulated for the purpose of understanding how existing drugs act and to develop new drugs for treatment and diagnosis of human diseases.

The broad scope of interests of pharmacology ranges from the study of intermolecular reactions of chemical constituents of cells with drugs to the effects of drugs and established therapeutic agents on mammalian physiological organ systems. Professional pharmacologists tend toward careers in basic research and teaching in academia, research in pharmaceutical or biotech companies, research institutes, or government agencies.

Message from the Director

This is an exciting time for the discipline of pharmacology in general, and even more so for the role that pharmacology will play in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. The breakneck discoveries in molecular and cellular sciences are fueling an increasing need for biomedical scientists who can contribute to drug discovery and development, and the translation of those findings to clinical medicine. It is our intention to graduate our students in a timely manner and to facilitate their employment prospects upon graduation.

Our multidisciplinary Program in Medical Pharmacology is comprised of a faculty dedicated to achieving excellence in science, providing strong mentoring to our students, and facilitating the success of our graduates in all phases of their careers. We believe this environment with its collegial atmosphere fosters the professional attributes that will contribute to a strong foundation needed in preparation for your life’s work. I invite you to examine carefully the information that follows describing our graduate training and research programs.