David
H. Farb, PhD, Chairman
Introduction
The
Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics at Boston
University School of Medicine offers graduate training programs that
lead to the MA, PhD and MD/PhD degrees in Pharmacology. The
training program is directed toward preparing students for future
careers in pharmacologic research in academic, industrial, and governmental
settings. Advanced research in pharmacology requires an understanding
of the principles of a broad range of disciplines. The curriculum
encompasses the interdisciplinary nature of this field and prepares
students to study chemical interactions with biological systems on
multiple levels, from the behavior of atoms in macromolecules to the
effect of molecules on the behavior of organisms. A major focus
of research training is in areas of molecular, cellular, and behavioral
neuroscience. Newly renovated and expanded research facilities
provide students with state-of-the-art opportunities for training
in molecular genetics, molecular modeling, electrophysiology, biophysical
methods, psychophysical methods, and other tools for elucidating the
interaction of drugs with biological targets. Current research
projects include: gene therapy in epilepsy; functional and structural
mapping of receptors; regulation of receptor gene expression; theoretical
analysis of ligand binding; computer-based structure analysis; transcriptional
regulation of gene expression in development and aging; peptides in
neuroendocrine and inflammatory processes; neuroprotective effect
of steroids and glutamate receptor antagonists; protein engineering
of microbial toxins; neural substrates of drug abuse and analgesia;
mechanisms of drug-induced neurotoxicity.
Admission
Procedures
The
procedures for admission to the graduate programs in pharmacology
are described in the section of this bulletin on admissions procedures
of the Division of Graduate Medical Sciences. Interviews are encouraged
for applicants to the MA/PhD programs and are required for applicants
to the MD/PhD program. Admissions and other matters relating to graduate
programs are reviewed by the Graduate Education Committee of the department.
Research
Assignment
As
soon after admission into the program as possible, students should
choose an area of research interest and select an appropriate faculty
member as supervisor of their research training. The Department Chairman
serves as advisor until a research supervisor is selected. During
the first year of study, students who have not chosen a research area
should familiarize themselves with research projects of the faculty
through laboratory rotations.
