The Cell Biology Degree Program at the University of Virginia seeks to provide outstanding training in research leading to the development of graduate students as independent investigators in a vibrant and rapidly evolving field.  We offer a comprehensive experience emphasizing original research, interdisciplinary lecture courses, and advanced topical colloquia culminating in a PhD degree.

As part of our program, graduate students have the opportunity to explore fundamental questions in many areas including molecular mechanisms of cell function; regulation of growth, differentiation and reproduction; cell interactions in migration; embryonic patterning in development; and morphogenesis of cells, tissues and organs.  In many cases these areas serve as bases for more targeted interests in cell – pathogen interactions; functional disregulation in cancer, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases; and biotechnology.

We have an exceptional level of interaction and collaboration not only within the Cell Biology degree program but also with colleagues across the School of Medicine, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and School of Engineering and Applied Science.

Phalloidin-cortical neurons"  are dissocated cortical
neurons from mouse brain, with the actin cytoskeleton
stained.  Courtesyy of the Dwyer lab.