Graduate Program

The Graduate Program in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences (GPIBS) at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers students the opportunity to pursue training in a wide range of disciplines while providing a foundation in the basic sciences. Students that are accepted into the GPIBS PhD program will rotate in a minimum of three laboratories so that they can learn about current research interests and techniques available on campus and to become acquainted with potential major advisors and research laboratories. Laboratory rotations begin in the first semester of graduate school, with additional rotation opportunities extending into the second semester. Rotation assignments are guided by conversations between the student, the Track Leader, and GPIBS faculty who are able to accept students into their group. Students do not select a major advisor prior to admission.

Applicants from underrepresented minority groups and those with special needs are encouraged to apply to GPIBS. The UAMS Graduate School and the Biochemistry and GPIBS Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Track do not discriminate against applicants or students with special needs. The Graduate School and the UAMS Student Wellness Program  have in place a process for assisting these students. We are members of Ark-AHEAD (Arkansas Affiliate of the Association on Higher Education And Disability). Additional resources can be found at AccessSTEM Alliance.

For further information about the graduate program, please contact:

Mari Davidson, Ph.D.
Program Director
Email: davidsonmarik@uams.edu
Phone: 501-526-6590
Fax: 501-686-8169

An introduction to the department and Ph.D. program by track leader Robert Eoff, Ph.D., Department Chair Kevin Raney, Ph.D., Mari Davidson, Ph.D., Samantha Kendrick, Ph.D., Alicia Byrd, Ph.D., and current and former graduate students.