Department of Cell Biology
Jordan Hall
P.O. Box 800732
Charlottesville, VA 22908-0732
(434) 924-2732 Fax: (434) 982-3912
mds2p@virginia.edu
www.virginia.edu/cellbiology
Degree Requirements
Admission Admission into the graduate program is based
on a combination of criteria including undergraduate and graduate transcripts,
Graduate Record Examination scores, letters of recommendation and previous research
experience. The candidate should hold a B.S., B.A., M.S., or M.A. degree in
biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or one of the related sciences with a background
in biology. Organic chemistry and mathematics through college algebra or trigonometry
are required. Calculus and biochemistry are strongly recommended. Students are
not accepted for study toward the master’s degree. A master’s degree
is not required before admission to the Ph.D. program.
Degree Requirements The prime requirement for the Doctor
of Philosophy degree in Cell Biology is the ability to carry out relatively
independent research. The dissertation must represent an original and significant
contribution to science and must be of merit sufficient to achieve publication
in a professional peer-reviewed journal. During the preparation for the Ph.D.
degree, an approved program of advanced courses is required. This program, however,
may vary considerably among students, avoiding unnecessary duplication and taking
into account the particular research interest of the student and his or her
previous training. Upon approval of the written dissertation by the student’s
dissertation advisory committee, the student will be given a final oral exam
in the presence of the thesis committee and other interested members of the
departmental and University faculty. Successful completion of the dissertation
defense, in addition to completion of course requirements, qualifying examination,
and fourth year research presentation leads to the awarding of the Ph.D. degree.
There are no foreign language or teaching requirements for
the Ph.D. although teaching opportunities are available and encouraged.
Course Descriptions
Note: The following courses are open to those who plan to work toward
a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Cell Biology; admission to any of these courses
requires instructor permission.
CELL 501 - (6) (Y)
Gross Anatomy and Development of the Human Body
Provides a thorough understanding of the structure and development
of body form and organ systems. Emphasizes the relation between structure and
function and focuses on clinical applications. Includes embryology in order
to present a complete picture of organs and body form from their earliest beginnings
to their adult condition.
CELL 502 - (5) (Y)
Gross Anatomy and Development of the Human Body
Continuation of CELL 501.
CELL 503 - (6) (Y)
Cell and Tissue Structure
Presents an integrated picture of morphological, biochemical,
and functional aspects of cells, tissues, and organs. Emphasizes fundamental
concepts of the structure of cells and its relationship to function. The labs
emphasize the morphological aspects of cells, tissues, and organs at both the
light and electron microscopical levels.
CELL 505 - (4) (Y)
Methods and Applications in Biotechnology
Introduces a broad range of basic research techniques used
in biomedical research. Emphasizes both theory of, and practical experience
with, each procedure. The procedures include electron and light microscopy,
tissue culture, autoradiography, immunocytochemistry, molecular separation and
isolation techniques, and radio immunology.
CELL 506 - (4) (S)
Laboratory Rotations
Graduate students carry out limited research projects in two
or three department research laboratories. Emphasizes designing and executing
experiments.
CELL 508 - (4) (Y)
Developmental Biology
Examines the basic processes and concepts involved in early
development. Includes gametogenesis, fertilization, nucleo-cytoplasmic interactions,
determination of primary tissues, induction, gene activity in early development,
pattern formation, processes in differentiation, and abnormal development. Cross-listed
as BIOL 508.
CELL 595 - (Credit to be arranged) (Y)
Current Topics in Cell Biology
Readings and oral presentations taken from the primary literature
in Cell Biology and related fields.
CELL 701 - (5) (Y)
Structure and Function of the Cell
Surveys modern cell biology emphasizing the interrelationship
between structure and function. Utilizes a combination of textbook readings
and original literature. Emphasizes biological membranes, cell adhesion, cytoskeleton,
mitosis and cell cycle, cell signaling, and cancer. Same as GSAS 812.
CELL 802 - (3) (IR)
Advances in Reproductive Biology
Topics include consideration of reproductive capacity and strategy,
mechanisms of hormone action, cell and molecular biology of gametogenesis and
gamete maturation, and events leading to fertilization. Emphasizes current advances
in reproductive biology.
CELL 803 - (Credit to be arranged) (Y)
Advanced Gross Anatomy of the Human Body
A laboratory demonstration/dissection course systematically
reviewing the gross anatomy of the human body. Emphasizes the functional and
surgical aspects of the morphology.
CELL 804 - (Credit to be arranged) (Y)
Advanced Gross Anatomy of the Human Body
Prerequisite: CELL 502 or equivalent.
Continuation of CELL 803.
CELL 805 - (2) (IR)
Colloquium in Developmental Biology
Discusses selected topics related to growth, cell differentiation,
organogenesis, and regeneration. Includes current topics in developmental biology
as a basis for normal and abnormal development.
CELL 806 - (2) (IR)
Colloquium in Cell Biology
Considers selected topics on the structure of the cell and
the relationship of this structure to cellular functions focusing on the ultrastructure
of animal cells and the functioning of their subcellular components. The topics
emphasize current advances in cell biology.
CELL 897 - (3-12) (Y)
Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Research
For master’s research,
taken before a thesis director has been selected.
CELL 898 - (3-12) (Y)
Non-Topical Research
For master’s thesis, taken under the supervision
of a thesis director.
CELL 903, 904 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Cell Biology
CELL 905, 906 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Cardiovascular Cell Biology
CELL 907, 908 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Reproductive Cell Biology
CELL 909, 910 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Reproductive Cell Biology and Immunology
CELL 911, 912 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Reproductive Physiology
CELL 913, 914 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Molecular Developmental Biology
CELL 915, 916 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Molecular Biology of Connective Tissues
CELL 917, 918 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Developmental Biology of the Nervous System
CELL 921, 922 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Monoclonal Antibody Production
CELL 923, 924 - (1-12) (Y)
Research in Molecular Biology of Membranes
CELL 997 - (1-12) (Y)
Non-Topical Research, Preparation for Doctoral Research
CELL 999 - (1-12) (Y)
Non-Topical Research
For doctoral dissertation, taken under the supervision of a
dissertation director.
|
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences