CMDB Theme Curriculum

Year One

The first year curriculum consists of a set of GBS core classes, BSSB module classes, and lab rotations. By the second year, there are a limited number of curriculum requirements, with most being determined by the student, mentor, and thesis committee.

Starting in January through April, you will take four course modules. We recommend the four CMDB modules; however, you can choose from an assortment of other modules taught by other themes. This is an example of Spring BBSB module options; please note that it is subject to change for future spring terms:

• GBS 710: Cell Signaling
• GBS 712: Cell Molecular Aspects and Developmental Biology 
• GBS 714: Developmental Neurology 
• GBS 784: Stem Cell Biology

Once again, these modules are suggest but other modules are accepted. 

Summer Semester

All students are expected to take GBSC 722: Intro to Biostats and a May Module. CMDB recommends that all students take GBS 717: Methods and Scientific Logic. 

Year Two and Beyond

The following courses are required:

• GRD 717: Principles of Scientific Integrity
• GBS 716: Grantsmanship & Scientific Writing

You will also take three upper-level elective GBS courses (or other relevant and approved 700-level biomedical science or math courses), applicable to your research project.

Seminar Series

Beginning in your second year you must attend one of the weekly departmental-based seminar series that are within your scientific interest. You must also attend a biomedical science departmental weekly seminar of your choice. Our students also participate in the CMDB/GGB Theme joint seminar series. This once-a-month seminar features presentations from upper-level CMDB and GGB students about their research projects, and meets in the Fall and Spring semesters.

Journal Club

CMDB students are required to register for and participate in a journal club of their choice in the Fall and Spring semesters each academic year, from second year through graduation.

Qualifying Exam

You must pass your qualifying exams no later than the end of the Fall semester of your third year. Failure to complete the exam in this time may result in termination of your stipend. After successful completion of the exam, it is expected that your proposal will be submitted to a funding agency (if applicable) for possible extramural support. Please see the CMDB Theme Policy regarding QE. 

Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology Theme (CMDB)

Research Areas: Tissue Regeneration & Engineering, Stem Cell Biology, Gene Regulation, Development & Birth Defects, Cell Structures, Molecular Biology, Cell Signaling, Intracellular Dynamics

Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology (CMDB) is one of eight interdisciplinary PhD themes within Graduate Biomedical Sciences (GBS).  Students select a theme upon application but have access to faculty and courses from across GBS, allowing for flexibility in both research and academics.

CMDB is designed to provide maximum flexibility that prepares students to launch into a career in the dynamic field of biomedical science. Our graduates have exciting careers in scientific research in both academic and industrial settings, scientific-related writing, business, law, forensics, administration, and education. Explore the many possible opportunities offered by CMDB at UAB and apply today!

Coursework

Our program is a cross-disciplinary theme consisting of a diverse group of scientists and physicians who have a collective interest in fundamental processes in cell, molecular, and developmental biology and how alterations in these processes result in human diseases and birth defects. 

Why should you join the CMDB Theme at UAB?

CMDB exists at the forefront of research. This program allows exceptional preparation in biological and biomedical research through an interdisciplinary approach. Students have the opportunity to interact and collaborate with faculty across the UAB campus and the UAB Heersink School of Medicine in innovative research laboratories. There is no better time than now to join the biomedical research community in cell and molecular biology.  

CMDB Theme Contacts

Theme Director

Dr. Jianbo Wang
(205) 996-9594
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Theme Director

Dr. John Parant
(205) 975-8469
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Theme Director

Dr. Matthew Alexander
(205) 934-7790
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.