The Ph.D. in Clinical and Translational Science at the University of Kansas Medical Center is a flexible program designed to prepare the next generation of clinician-scientists and translational researchers.
About the Curriculum
The curriculum is built around four core pillars:
- Clinical and Translational Research Methods
- Statistics and Analytics
- Professional Skills Development
- Mentored Research Experience
This integrated structure allows students to engage in rigorous coursework while simultaneously participating in hands-on, interdisciplinary research.
Clinical and translational science is a rapidly evolving field focused on transforming laboratory discoveries into effective treatments and improving health care delivery. This doctoral program equips graduates to lead research initiatives that enhance patient care and public health.
The KU Advantage
At KU Medical Center, students and faculty investigate high-impact conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, brain aging, polycystic kidney disease and cancer. This program reflects our broader mission to improve lives and communities in Kansas and beyond through innovation in education, research and health care. Learn more about our world-class research hub.
Program Outcomes
Upon graduation, you will be prepared for principal investigator roles in academic, clinical and biomedical industry research settings, leading and conducting research that improves the overall quality of healthcare and the health of patients.
Specifically, you will be able to:
- Identify important, testable scientific questions.
- Design studies that operationalize a testable hypothesis.
- Apply ethical principles and considerations for patient safety.
- Understand and navigate investigational product development, approval and regulation processes.
- Plan, implement and manage research studies and sites to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and study protocols.
- Use data management tools and informatics to ensure the accuracy, security, and usability of research data.
- Critically analyze and disseminate study results.
- Lead interdisciplinary teams in biomedical research.
- Collaborate within interdisciplinary teams to advance shared research objectives.
Career Opportunities
The Ph.D. in Clinical and Translational Science prepares clinician-scientists to lead innovative, interdisciplinary research that translates discoveries into improved patient care and population health. With employment of medical scientists projected to grow 17% from 2021 to 2031, this program meets a critical workforce need by training researchers to investigate high-impact conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and chronic pain. Students gain expertise in personalized medicine, scientific rigor and research leadership, equipping them to secure extramural funding and lead high-impact clinical research programs