In the M3D PhD program, students receive rigorous interdisciplinary training designed to prepare them for translational research; Core courses focus on the mechanisms of disease, the impact of basic science on medicine, and human genetics, providing a rigorous intellectual foundation. Students also participate in one or more courses designed to provide an interface with the clinic and clinical medicine; learn basic statistics; and choose additional electives from the deep and varied menu offered by UW basic science and engineering departments. In addition, students complete three laboratory rotations in their first year with faculty from any of our partner institutions, exploring the innovative science our faculty offers.
M3D is distinguished by mentorship from both a primary research mentor and a clinical mentor. The M3D PhD program explicitly nurtures a dual skillset, enabling students to independently identify important questions in human health and disease and develop the intellectual and technical skills essential to address these questions. The M3D Program is designed for students to complete PhD training in five years, ready to take the next step in diverse careers in academia, biotech, the pharmaceutical industry, education, publishing, or public policy.
The M3D PhD Program is a collaborative effort among the University of Washington School of Medicine, the Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, and Fred Hutch Cancer Center.