Overview
Thomas Jefferson University Offers Top-Tier Programs in Medical Education, Patient Care, and Medical Research
Thomas Jefferson University is located in the heart of Philadelphia and is renowned as one of the nation's leading academic health-care centers. In addition to its contributions to medical education, the school is engaged in patient care and medical research. The university is a partner of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, which is ranked among the best in orthopedic medicine, cardiology, and rehabilitation medicine. The university comprises several colleges, including Jefferson College of Graduate Studies, Jefferson School of Pharmacy, Jefferson Medical College, Jefferson School of Health Professions, Jefferson School of Nursing, and Jefferson School of Population Health.
The campus is situated right in the city's theater district, between Rittenhouse Square and Old City. Its location is a prime one, only a short jaunt away from great venues such as Lincoln Financial Field, University City, and Philadelphia's acclaimed Fairmount Park. Thomas Jefferson University strives to make its campus atmosphere comfortable, visually pleasing, and safe. Students who choose to reside on campus have a choice of three centrally located residence halls, two of which are apartment-style quarters, with the third being dormitory-style accommodations. There are also abundant off-campus accommodations located nearby.
Just as the university's research efforts are directed toward discovering new knowledge that will define the future of clinical care, the education programs at Thomas Jefferson University studies are focused on the goal of educating tomorrow's health professionals who will lead the delivery and research of tomorrow's health care. The university's expanding research programs are focused on many rapidly developing areas of the biomedical sciences, with a major emphasis on molecular and cellular biology. Each year, approximately $140 million are devoted to more than 600 active research programs.
Ph.D. Program in Molecular Pharmacology and Structural Biology is Built on a Multidisciplinary Background
The Ph.D. program in molecular pharmacology and structural biology at Thomas Jefferson University offers its students a multidisciplinary background built upon a strong basic knowledge of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, and pharmacology, along with related areas of interest.
The Ph.D. program first lays a foundation in molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry. Then students take basic classes in pharmacology, and follow up with more advanced specialized training. As students move into the specific areas they have chosen for their thesis research, their individual needs are addressed through elective courses. Students should complete all required courses by the end of their second year. Another two to three years are needed to complete their individual thesis projects. Seminars and weekly journal clubs support and enrich a student's work in the classroom and laboratory, and presentations to and discussions with faculty members and fellow students are quite common experiences.
Faculty research interests include: biochemistry and molecular and cell biology of hormone-receptor interactions and signal transduction mechanisms within cells, mechanisms of membrane sorting and intracellular organization, neuropharmacology, molecular modeling and design of therapeutic agents, crystal structures of proteins and nucleic acids, the computational analysis of the structure and energetics of biological macromolecules, clinical pharmacology, cancer biology, cardiovascular signaling mechanisms, and translational medicine.
The molecular pharmacology program is focused on training students in the intellectual and technical skills that permit them to continue on to an independent research career. In fact, most of the college's Ph.D. graduates are active in research in academic institutions, the government, and, increasingly, in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania -- Historic City and the Home of Thomas Jefferson University
Renowned for liberty and its central role in revolutionary history, modern Philadelphia is a medley of nations, races, and colorful traditions. Along the Delaware River, in southeastern Pennsylvania, the city runs the gamut from the truly historic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to its modern urbane outlook. This city, the second-largest on the East Coast, is home to an eclectic assortment of culinary, recreational, and entertainment venues and offers a myriad of housing options in culturally diverse neighborhoods. Philadelphia's housing options vary from modish apartments to historic townhouses and everything in between. Its neighborhoods boast cobblestone streets and grand architecture coupled with modern facilities and amenities. From its breathtaking parks and scenic waterfront to the old-town hustle and bustle of the Italian Market and its historic sites, Philadelphia is packed with things to do.
Philadelphia hosts a number of special events each year, starting off with the Mummers Parade in January. As the year progresses, fun times are found at the Jam on the River, Folk Festival, Fourth of July fireworks, Bach Festival, Freedom Festival, and many more events. Numerous museums, galleries, historic sites, Independence Mall, tours, and other entertainment venues are available to everyone. Philadelphia is also home to several top-notch professional sports teams, including the 76ers (NBA), Eagles (NFL), Flyers (NHL), Phillies (MLB), and others. An excellent mass transit system helps people get around the city and surrounding suburbs. New York City, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., "Amish country," the "Jersey Shore," and the Pocono Mountains are all within reasonable driving distances.
