Message from the Chair
From Richard L. Moss

Physiology is the study of the biophysical and biochemical processes underlying the function of cells and organ systems in the human body. Our increasing understanding of these mechanisms is the foundation for advances in medical treatment and research.

The Department of Physiology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has a faculty of 24 investigators engaged in interdisciplinary studies that span molecular, cellular, systems and behavioral sciences, with strong traditions in cardiovascular biology and neuroscience.

The research activities of many of our faculty and graduate students involves studies of mechanisms of human diseases as diverse as heart failure, hearing deficits, epilepsy and muscular dystrophy. The research success of the Department of Physiology is evident in its current ranking by the NIH among the top 10 departments in the nation. Virtually all our faculty are internationally regarded as leaders in their fields.

To prepare graduate students for careers in teaching and research, the Graduate Program in Physiology provides doctoral training in mechanistic studies of important cellular and systems processes. Students gain knowledge and expertise through formal course work, doctoral research in the laboratories of their research mentors, journal clubs and seminars, and organized experiences in public speaking and teaching. Student research is carried out in the laboratories of Departmental faculty as well as faculty trainers from other departments such as Cardiology (Medicine), Neurology, Ophthalmology, and Neurosurgery. Our program is interdisciplinary in its approach to scientific research, reflecting the interests of our faculty and the breadth of the discipline of Physiology. In keeping with this theme, training in Physiology at the University of Wisconsin features biochemical, molecular biological, biophysical and systems approaches to studies of physiological processes in a variety of excitable and non-excitable tissues.

An important facet of the success of our research and training programs is the overall strength of biological sciences at the University of Wisconsin. With nearly 600 faculty in biology, there are many opportunities to interact with world experts in a wide range of subject areas--and in close proximity to the laboratory of your primary research mentor! In fact, the barriers between laboratories and among departments are extremely low, which has fostered an environment of exceptional cooperation among researchers and development of interdisciplinary approaches to research problems. For example, shared core facilities such as cores in spectroscopy and transgenic animals are focal points for interaction with faculty and other students, while enhancing the research capabilities of individual investigators. This commitment to excellence in biological research by the University, the Graduate School and the Medical School has created a nearly ideal environment for pursuing research and graduate studies.

We know that career planning during graduate studies is an important aspect of professional development. Many of our graduates now hold research and teaching positions in prestigious universities and medical schools, including the University of Michigan, University of Pennsylvania, Stanford University and many others. Still others have pursued research careers in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. While every one of our graduates receives rigorous training in research, an ideal career for some will place greater emphasis on teaching than research. For these students we offer special training in educational methods and theory, resulting in a formal minor in Education or in some cases a master’s degree in Education. Departmental course offerings at the undergraduate and professional levels provide excellent opportunities for gaining practical experience in course design and oversight and in teaching methods. Whichever career path you choose, we will provide you with options in course work and experience that will develop and refine your interests and significantly enhance your career prospects.

We appreciate the time you have taken to visit our Website and hope that you will contact us with questions you may have about graduate training program or opportunities in research. There are outstanding opportunities for graduate training in Physiology at the University of Wisconsin, leading to challenging and rewarding careers in research and teaching. We look forward to hearing from you!