Experimental Pathology Graduate Program

We welcome prospective students to explore our training program, faculty and students in experimental pathology at the University of Texas Medical Branch.

The Experimental Pathology Graduate Program provides trainees with unique opportunities and training experiences that can only occur when students, basic scientists and physician-scientists alike come together to answer the most challenging questions in disease pathogenesis. Significance of pathology in research, particularly in infectious diseases and toxicology for which the cornerstones of pathology include host cell injury, inflammation and repair, hemodynamic abnormalities, immunopathology and organ-based pathology are critical components necessary for understanding the molecular and cellular basis of disease pathogenesis. We have world renowned facilities and investigators dedicated to pathology education and research providing trainees an opportunity to conduct impactful state-of-the-art research. Our excellent Program Faculty conduct multidisciplinary research in many areas including vector-borne emerging infectious diseases, tropical infectious diseases, vaccines, host-pathogen interactions, infection and immunity, biodefense and environmental toxicology.

Mission Statement

1. Provide a comprehensive foundation in biomedical sciences and general pathology. Educate students in the basic biomedical sciences of cell morphology, biochemistry, molecular biology, physiology alongside their pathological counterparts in disease processes. The program also specializes in infectious disease pathogenesis equipping students with a broad understanding of both normal and diseased states.
2. Facilitate interactions with clinical scientists. Foster opportunities for students to engage with clinical scientists, promoting appreciation for the challenges, technologies, and methodologies involved in diagnosis, management and treatment of human diseases. This interaction bridges the gap between laboratory research and clinical applications, enriching students’ understanding of medical problems.
3. Train in research methodology and data analysis. Provide students with comprehensive training in research methodologies and data analysis, emphasizing the complex techniques and strategies used to investigate pathological processes. This includes exposure to cutting edge research tools and approaches that are crucial to advancing the field of experimental pathology.
4. Guide students in completing original research projects. Offer personalized guidance, mentorship and support to help students successfully complete original research projects in specialized areas of experimental pathology. This process fosters critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and the development of innovative solutions to complex pathological questions.
5. Prepare students for a range of career paths in biological sciences. Equip students with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to pursue diverse career opportunities available to PhDs in biological sciences. Whether in academia, industry, or government, students, will be prepared for a variety of roles where they can contribute to advancing scientific knowledge and human health.
   

The Experimental Pathology Program Director, Dr. Jere W. McBride, has been involved in graduate education nearly three decades. He is a Graduate Faculty member in the Experimental Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology, Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, and Neuroscience Graduate Programs. His teaching and mentoring experience include contributions to both graduate and medical school curriculums and mentorship for over 50 students (doctoral, master's, undergraduate, high school), over 20 postdoctoral fellows and visiting international trainees during his career at UTMB. In addition, he has been a continuously funded NIH-investigator for 20+ years and has published over 130-peer-reviewed publications and reviews, book chapters and proceedings. In addition, he has over 30 US patents for intellectual property related to vaccines and diagnostics for the ehrlichioses.

The Program Coordinator, Ashley Rhame, is solely responsible for the administrative duties of the Program as well as coordination with the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences concerning all aspects of policy and procedures pertaining to the Experimental Pathology Graduate Program.