Quantitative Biomedical Sciences
Quantitative Biomedical Sciences Doctoral Degree Program
Director: Rob Frost, PhD
Associate Director: Anne Hoen, PhD
Director of Academic & Student Affairs: Kristine A. Giffin, PhD
Program Coordinator: Amanda Helali, MA
The Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.) Program in Quantitative Biomedical Sciences (QBS)
Modern biomedical research increasingly depends on both multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches. While multidisciplinary work draws from distinct scientific disciplines to address research questions, interdisciplinary research integrates methods and concepts across these disciplines to tackle complex biomedical challenges in innovative ways.
A data explosion resulting from advances in technologies such as next-generation sequencing, mass spectrometry, single-cell genomics, and electronic health records has generated a significant demand for researchers trained in quantitative disciplines such as bioinformatics, biostatistics and epidemiology. Those best positioned to lead this work are cross-trained in multiple quantitative disciplines allowing them to take a truly interdisciplinary approach to solving complex biomedical problems.
Through rigorous training and interdisciplinary collaboration, the QBS doctoral program prepares students for impactful careers at the intersection of biomedical research and quantitative science.
Learning Outcomes
QBS PhD graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate comprehensive and foundational knowledge of the core concepts and principles within the field of study
- Critically analyze and interpret relevant, scholarly literature relevant to the field
- Integrate and synthesize theoretical and empirical ideas across the field of study
- Apply the research methods, analytical tools, and techniques essential to scholarly inquiry in the field
- Assess and critique empirical data and research findings using appropriate methodological framework
- Develop and effectively communicate a research proposal through clear, well-structured written and oral presentation
Core Courses
6 units from the following core courses with at least 1 unit in each area
Bioinformatics
Students without bioinformatics backgrounds are encouraged to enroll in QBS 146, which looks broadly at computational tools and bioinformatic applications. Those with advanced bioinformatics experience can alternatively enroll in Introduction to Statistical Genetics, QBS 148.
Biostatistics
The QBS biostatistics curriculum is designed to start with either 119 or 120 in the Fall term followed by 121 in Winter. After 121, students will have sufficient background for the later QBS biostatistics and machine learning courses (108, 122, 124, 126, 177). However, students are encouraged to take 120 vs. 119 if they want to enroll in QBS 122 or 124, given the more mathematical/theoretical nature of these classes. Students who have recently taken a graduate-level equivalent to 119/120 or 121 may opt to skip these classes and directly enroll in more advanced courses (permission of the advanced course instructor is required).
Epidemiology
Students who have never taken a graduate-level course in epidemiology should first take QBS 130. Students who have taken 130 or equivalent may take 131, 132, 133, 136 and/or 137. 136 and 137 should not be the only epidemiology coursework taken to meet core course requirements.