Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, Jackson Hall 6-125, 321 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612-625-5902; fax: 612-301-1543)

Physiology may be defined as the application of mathematics, physics, and chemistry to the study of structure and function in living systems. As such, physiology is a "hybrid" field in which expertise from many other disciplines is ordinarily required and combined. The program emphasizes a quantitative approach to understanding the functions of cells, organs, and systems in living animals. PhD students take a core concentration that provides a broad background in the physiology of membranes, cells, transport, and organ systems. Individualized programs are structured to build on the student's strengths and to fill in gaps that would otherwise be an impediment to specific problem solving. Teaching experience is also available to all students. The graduate program in the Twin Cities has cardiovascular, hypertension and metabolism emphases, although many other areas of specialization are represented. Students can enter the PhD program from the Twin Cities or Duluth campus. Highly qualified individuals with solid quantitative backgrounds are encouraged to apply. In the Twin Cities, prospective students also include people with previous medical training who are already at the University of Minnesota or are considering the University of Minnesota Medical School for residency or fellowship training. Entering PhD students are expected to take a series of laboratory rotations to familiarize themselves with active areas of research within the degree program. The program includes faculty and corresponding research laboratories from the Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology and also the Departments of Medicine; Surgery; Neuroscience; Neurosurgery; Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics; Pharmacology; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Kinesiology; and Animal Science.

Other requirements to be completed before admission:

An undergraduate degree with at least one year (three quarters or two semesters) of calculus, one year of physics, one year of biology, and two years of chemistry is required. For the minor, a background in mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology acceptable to the graduate faculty is required.

There are no minimum GPA or GRE score requirements. All applicants need three letters of recommendation. Admission to the program begins in the Fall semester. International applicants must submit score(s) from one of the following tests:

During the first year, students rotate through three to four laboratories, attend weekly seminars, choose an advisor, and begin a research project. All coursework must be taken A/F and with an earned grade of B or higher unless offered S/N only.