Cell and Developmental Biology

Track Representative: Enamul Huq

The Cell and Developmental Biology (CDB) track is for graduate students interested in the mechanisms controlling fundamental eukaryotic cell and developmental processes. Within these broad and interrelated disciplines the individual laboratories affiliated with the CDB track focus on understanding the molecular and cellular basis of cell division, growth, differentiation, and movement; spatial patterning and morphogenesis of developing embryos; and the evolution of developmental mechanisms. CDB researchers utilize both plant and animal model organisms along with state-of-the-art methods in molecular biology, biochemistry, proteomics, genetics, and genomics. There is also a strong emphasis on microscopy, especially time-lapse microscopy of cellular and subcellular processes in live cells and embryos. The primary goal of the CDB track faculty is to support and mentor the next generation of outstanding cell and developmental biologists.

After completing the Cell and Molecular Biology graduate program core courses, students who choose the CDB track will take two graduate-level electives, selected in consultation with the student’s faculty advisor. One elective is a comprehensive developmental biology course chosen from the options shown below. The second elective is a thesis-oriented course that can be chosen from the pre-approved list shown below or from other appropriate course offerings with the approval from the CDB track representatives. Electives should be completed by the end of a student’s third year. Each fall and spring semester students will also enroll and participate in the CDB journal club (Current Literature in Cell and Developmental Biology, BIO383K) starting their third year and CDB student seminar starting their fourth year until earning their doctorate. The former will help students develop the essential skills for critically analyzing and presenting primary research articles and the latter will provide an excellent opportunity once each year for students to present their own research to a supportive CDB community of faculty, postdocs, graduate and undergraduate students.

Developmental Biology Electives