Graduate Program in Developmental Biology
The core mission of the developmental biology graduate program is to train students to analyze all aspects of developmental processes from a broad interdisciplinary perspective, integrating cellular, molecular and genetic approaches.
Developmental Biology is by its nature a highly integrative discipline that takes multiple approaches to study a range of topics including embryogenesis, organogenesis, cell fate specification, stem cell biology, cancer and regeneration. At Chicago our developmental biologists are using an array of experimental approaches to address questions across the entire spectrum of developmental model systems, as well as using comparative approaches in non-model systems. We can thus offer our trainees a uniquely diverse training experience that prepares them for careers in advanced research and education.
Our Developmental Biology Faculty are based in nine different basic and clinical departments. Their research strengths are concentrated in five primary areas: developmental genetics of model systems, such as Drosophila, C. elegans and Arabidopsis; vertebrate development, including research groups focusing on mouse, zebrafish, and chick; developmental neurobiology; immune and blood cell development; and the rapidly growing discipline of evolution and development.
To complement this diversity of research areas students participate in a range of additional activities, such as the annual retreat, seminars, journal clubs, and research presentations that are designed to foster intellectual discussion and collaboration. Students in the program receive a broad exposure to multiple areas of developmental biology while obtaining intensive training in a specific aspect of the field.