Doctor of Philosophy, Cellular and Integrative Physiology , Ph.D.

West Virginia University

Physiology is a basic medical science that involves investigation into the mechanisms that control normal body function. This includes the study of individual body components and also, how these components interact at the level of the whole organism. Modern physiology encompasses the use of techniques which allow study of molecular biology, cell physiology, functions at the organ level, as well as the coordinated control of overall body functions by the endocrine and nervous systems. An understanding of normal physiological functions is essential before we can expect to understand, prevent or cure disease.

The Department of Physiology and Pharmacology at West Virginia University maintains a Doctoral program leading to a Ph.D. degree in Cellular and Integrative Physiology. This graduate degree program is designed to provide a broad background for students by requiring an in-depth understanding of all major areas within physiology. The research interests of our faculty encompass most major areas in the physiological sciences. This diversity enables the student to specialize in cardiovascular, cellular, endocrine, neural, renal or respiratory physiology. In addition, students may learn approaches and techniques of related fields including anatomy, biochemistry, immunology, pharmacology and molecular biology. This multi-disciplinary approach to physiology opens up a variety of career opportunities for the graduating student.

Our graduate programs emphasize close interactions between the faculty and students, enhanced by a high faculty-to-student ratio and a student-first faculty mentality. Through this interaction students receive their most valuable training; namely, how to approach problems logically and design experiments that lead to meaningful results.