Welcome to the Penn State Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Physiology (IGDP). We are the oldest interdisciplinary biomedical sciences program at Penn State and uniquely focused on translating bench to bedside science. Our program seeks to advance society's understanding of how body systems work at all levels, from molecular to cellular to tissues to organs, and apply that knowledge to reduce disease and improve the health of individuals.
Our multidisciplinary program enables students to pursue their interests in numerous areas of study:
- Aging, exercise, and muscle biology
- Biophysics
- Immunology and inflammation
- Cardiovascular regulation and disease
- Nutrient regulation, obesity, and metabolic diseases
- Reproductive biology
Investigators use a variety of disease models and approaches spanning from cells to humans, and faculty members hold primary appointments in many different departments. Our program boasts outstanding research facilities where students receive excellent training in the fundamentals of physiology from world-class faculty members and where they begin to develop their own portfolio of innovative research.
It is an exciting time to be a physiologist, and the career opportunities for physiologists in academia and industry are exceptional. Our recently awarded NIH predoctoral training program includes a cutting-edge inter-disciplinary curriculum focused on developing skill sets necessary for entry into the 21st century biomedical workforce. Please explore our website to learn more about the opportunities awaiting you in the Physiology program. Please feel free to the program chair if you have any questions about the program.
Opportunities for Underrepresented Minorities and Students with Disability
The physiology program actively recruits students of diversity and disability. Senior undergraduate students interested in gaining research experience may consider attending the Summer Research Opportunity Program (SROP) and STEM open house. Accommodations are available for students with disabilities. Students are considered for predoctoral trainee fellowship support.
Greg Shearer
Chair, Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Integrative and Biomedical Physiology; Professor of Nutrition and Physiology