Human Genetics Research
Interested in Human Genetics Research?
Our goal is to prepare highly selected students
for productive research careers in genetics. Because of the central
role played by genetics in all biological processes and the vastly
expanding applications of genetics to virtually every aspect of modern
society we believe that it is as important for our students to develop
a broad perspective as it is for them to become experts in a specific
area. A broad perspective is indispensable for the formulation of
long-term career goals as well as for productive collaborations that
have become such an integral part of modern research. While developing
a broad base through appropriate courses, first-year students participate
in eight-week research rotations in faculty laboratories of their
choice. These rotations provide the basis for selecting the area
of genetics in which the student will become an expert. Seminar courses
occurring each semester focus on current topics in genetics and molecular
biology and are presented by investigators within and outside of
Emory. We also believe that strong presentation and communication
skills are critical to becoming a top-notch scientist. As such, GMB
students present periodic progress reports on their own research
to the assembled Program. In summary, the GMB graduate program strives
to educate and train tomorrow's top geneticists today.
The Student Experience
To provide the basis for advanced research, introductory courses
covering both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems are taken in the
first year. First-year students obtain practical research training
by participating in eight-week rotations in the investigators' laboratories
of their choice. These rotations provide the basis for selecting
dissertation topics and mentors. After completing the first year,
students tailor their curriculum from a large list of specialized
courses in genetics and molecular biology, as well as other areas
of current biological sciences. All courses emphasize critical thinking,
constructive literature evaluation, and presentation skills. Seminar
courses occurring each semester focus on current topics in genetics
and molecular biology and are presented by investigators within and
outside of Emory. Students also present their findings in research-in-progress
meetings, which are attended by their peers and the faculty. Student
invited speakers, small group teaching experiences, and training
in the ethical conduct of research round out the overall list of
activities that occur as students conduct research and prepare their
dissertation.
Research Opportunities
Research interests of the faculty vary in topic, approach and model
organism. This interdepartmental graduate program derives its faculty
from eight different departments including those from the departments
of Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Human Genetics, Microbiology & Immunology,
Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Pharmacology, and the Winship
Cancer Institute. More on Research Opportunities...
Training Opportunities
The graduate program in Genetics and Molecular Biology (GMB) at Emory University offers an exciting broad
based training in the fields of genetics and molecular biology and their related disciplines of biochemistry,
bioinformatics, cell biology, developmental biology and statistics. Research interests of the faculty vary in
topic, approach and model organism. This interdepartmental graduate program derives its faculty from ten
different departments including those from the departments of Human Genetics, Biology, Biochemistry,
Cell Biology, Microbiology & Immunology, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Pharmacology, and the Winship
Cancer Institute. A wide range of research opportunities in bacterial, viral, human and eukaryotic model
system genetics enable students to specialize in their area of interest while obtaining an essential
foundation in genetics. Areas of emphasis listed below are supported by state-of-the-art research facilities.
Research programs of the faculty fall into six major areas:
