Message from the Chair

Welcome to the Pharmacology Graduate Group!

Elizabeth A Heller, PhD 
Chair
VMB photo
Vera Moiseenkova Bell, PhD 
Vice-Chair
 
Pharmacology is a cornerstone of biomedical science, uniquely integrating multiple disciplines to advance drug development, elucidate mechanisms of action, and optimize therapeutic delivery. Skilled pharmacologists are in high demand across academia, the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, and regulatory agencies, playing a vital role in ensuring the safe and effective use of medications.
Our Ph.D. program, supported by the NIGMS Predoctoral Training Grant, equips students with a strong foundation in both basic biomedical science and pharmacology. We foster critical and creative thinking, enabling our graduates to make significant contributions to research and scientific innovation. Our curriculum provides a robust education through three core pharmacology courses, supplemented by 11 specialized courses. Our faculty engage in diverse research areas, including drug discovery, neuropharmacology, immunology, cancer biology, metabolism, signal transduction, and structural biology, offering students a broad spectrum of laboratories for their Ph.D. research. To find the best fit, students are encouraged to complete rotations in at least three different laboratories, guided by the program chair and faculty mentors. In addition to rigorous academic training, our students benefit from an array of professional development opportunities. They participate in local, national, and international seminars, symposia, and conferences, staying informed about the latest research advancements and expanding their professional networks. The Biomedical Graduate Studies career development program further supports students by offering resources on core competencies, career paths, and alumni outcomes, helping them navigate and succeed in their chosen fields.
We are proud to support our students as they embark on their journey to becoming the next generation of leaders in pharmacology. We look forward to the groundbreaking discoveries and innovations they will bring to the field.



UPenn Pharmacology Graduate Group

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