PhD Program in Biological Sciences in Public Health (BPH), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

The PhD Program in Biological Sciences in Public Health (BPH) at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health emphasizes interdisciplinary basic research spanning from molecular biology to human populations. BPH students develop individualized research projects focused on defining the molecular underpinnings of human health and disease by employing cutting-edge approaches in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, genomics, metabolic biology, physiology, immunology, biophysics, computational and systems biology, and bioengineering. A central goal of the research in this program, whether basic or translational, is the improved understanding, prevention, and treatment of the most common and impactful global health threats.
 
The program encompasses laboratories and faculty mentors in the Departments of Environmental Health, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, Molecular Metabolism, and Nutrition. Major areas of investigation include: 

• The Metabolic Basis of Health and Disease
• Immunology and Infectious Diseases
• Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences

While the program roots cut across the entire range of biological sciences, the research also employs core quantitative disciplines (e.g., biostatistics and epidemiology), as well as approaches that bridge biology, chemistry, engineering, and computation. Students attracted to this program generally share this interdisciplinary interest and a desire to confront the most pressing health issues of our time.

All students admitted into this training program are provided full tuition, health insurance and stipend support. Our graduates hold distinguished positions in academia, industry, government, and other arenas of life science research, consulting, communications and policy. The application deadline for the 2025-26 Academic Year is December 1, 2024.

More information can be found on our website: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/biological-sciences/ or through these upcoming recruitment events:

BPH Virtual Open House – September 26, 3:30-4:30 pm EST: Register now to join the discussion

HILS Virtual Open House – October 17, 5:00-7:00 PM – Admissions Panel with Faculty Panelists
Register here

BPH Virtual Open House – November 5, 10:00-11:00 am EST: Register now to join the discussion

HILS Virtual Open House – November 7, 5:00-7:00 PM – Breakout Sessions with HILS Programs
Register here