biomedical research thesis topics

Enjoy a completely custom, expertly-written dissertation. Choose from hundreds of writers, all of whom are career specialists in your subject.

45 Biomedical Research Topics for You

Although choosing relevant biomedical research topics is often an arduous task for many, it shouldn’t be for you. You no longer have to worry as we have provided you with a list of topics in biomedical science in this write-up.

Biomedical research is a broad aspect of science, and it is still evolving. This aspect of science involves a variety of ways to prevent and treat diseases that lead to illness and death in people.

This article contains 45 biomedical topics. The topics were carefully selected to guide you in choosing the right topics. They can be used for presentations, seminars, or research purposes, as the case may be.

So, suppose you need topics in biomedical ethics for papers or biomedical thesis topics for various purposes. In that case, you absolutely have to keep reading! Are you ready to see our list of biomedical topics? Then, let’s roll.

Biomedical Engineering Research Topics

Biomedical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with providing solutions to problems in medicine and biology. Biomedical engineering research is an advanced area of research. Are you considering taking up research in this direction?

Research topics in this area cannot just be coined while eating pizza. It takes a lot of hard work to think out something meaningful. However, we have made a list for you! Here is a list of biomedical engineering topics!

• How to apply deep learning in biomedical engineering
• Bionics: the latest discoveries and applications
• The techniques of genetic engineering
• The relevance of medical engineering today
• How environmental engineering has affected the world

Biomedical Ethics Topics

There are ethical issues surrounding healthcare delivery, research, biotechnology, and medicine. Biomedical Ethics is fundamental to successful practice experience and is addressed by various disciplines. If you want to research this area, then you do not have to look for topics. Here’s a list of biomedical ethics for paper that you can choose from:

• The fundamentals of a physician-patient relationship
• How to handle disability issues as a health care sector
• Resource allocation and distribution
• All you need to know about coercion, consent, and or vulnerability
• Ethical treatment of subjects or animals in clinical trials

Relevant Biomedical Topics

Topics in Biomedical science are numerous, but not all are relevant today. Since biomedical science is constantly evolving, newer topics are coming up. If you desire in your topic selection, read on. Here is a list of relevant biomedical topics just for you!

• The replacement of gene therapy by gene editing
• Revolution of vaccine development by synthetic biology
• Introduction of artificial blood – the impact on the health sector
• Ten things know about artificial womb
• Transplanted reproductive organs and transgender birth

Biomedical Science Topics

Biomedical science is the aspect of scientific studies that focuses on applying biology and chemistry to health care. This field of science has a broad range of disciplines. If you intend to do research in this field, look at this list of research topics in biomedical science.

• The role of biomechanics in health care delivery
• Importance of biomaterials and regeneration engineering
• The application of cell and molecular engineering to medicine
• The evolution of medical instrumentation and devices
• Neural engineering- the latest discoveries

Seminar Topics for Biomedical Instrumentation

Biomedical science is constantly making progress, especially in the aspect of biomedical instrumentation. This makes it worthy of a seminar presentation in schools where it is taught. However, choosing a biomedical research topic for a biomedical instrumentation seminar may not come easy. This is why we have collated five brilliant topics for biomedical instrumentation just for you. They include:

• Microelectrode in neuro-transplants
• Hyperbaric chamber for oxygen therapy
• How concentric ring electrodes can be used to manage epilepsy
• How electromagnetic interference makes cochlear implants work
• Neuroprosthetics Management using Brain-computer interfaces (BCI)

Biomedical Engineering Topics for Presentation

One of the interesting aspects of biomedical science in biomedical engineering. It is the backbone that gives the biomedical science structure. Are you interested in making presentations about biomedical engineering topics? Or do you need biomedical engineering topics for paper? Get started here! We have compiled a list of biomedical engineering topics for you. Here they are:

• In-the-ear device to control stuttering: the basis of its operation
• How to implement the magnetic navigated catheterization
• Semiconductor-cell interfaces: the rudiments of its application
• The benefits of tissue engineering of muscle
• The benefits of sensitive artificial skin for prosthetic arms

Hot Topics in Biomedical Research

Biomedical research is fun because it is often relatable. As interesting as it seems, choosing a topic for research doesn’t come easy at all. Yet, there are also a lot of trending events around biomedical topics. To simplify your selection process, we have written out a few of them here.

Here are some hot biomedical research topics below.

• What is immunology, and what is the relevance today?
• Regenerative medicine- definition, importance, and application
• Myths about antibiotic resistance
• Vaccine development for COVID-19
• Infectious diseases now and before

Biomedical Research Topics

Biomedical research is an extensive process. It requires a lot of time, dedication, and resources. Getting a topic shouldn’t be added to that list. There are biomedical thesis topics and research topics in biomedical science for you here:

• Air pollution- sources, impact, and prevention
• Covid-19 vaccination- the effect on life expectancy
• Hyper insomnia- what is responsible?
• Alzheimer’s disease- newer treatment approaches
• Introduction of MRI compatible infusion pump

Biomedical Nanotechnology Topics

Biomedical research topics and areas now include nanotechnology. Nanotechnology has extended its tentacles to medicine and has been used to treat cancer successfully. This makes it a good research area. It is good for seminar presentations. Here are some biomedical nanotechnology topics below.

• The uses of functional particles and nanomaterials
• Nanoparticles based drug delivery system
• The incorporation of nanoporous membranes into biomedical devices
• Nanostructured materials for biological sensing
• Nanocrystals- imaging, transportation, and toxicity features

Seeking professional assistance to write your biomedical research or thesis? Look no further! At our reputable writing service, our experienced writers specialize in providing tailored support for the complexities of biomedical research. When you say, “ do my thesis for me ” we’re here to guide you through formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, and analyzing data sets. Entrust the writing process to our experts while you focus on exploring the frontiers of biomedical research. Contact us today for a meticulously crafted thesis that enhances your chances of success.

We believe you have been thoroughly equipped with a list of biomedical topics. This way, you wouldn’t have to go through the stress of choosing a topic for research, seminars, or other educational purposes. Now that you have the topics at your fingertips make your choice and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Richard Ginger is a dissertation writer and freelance columnist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the writing industry. He handles every project he works on with precision while keeping attention to details and ensuring that every work he does is unique.

Succeed With A Perfect Dissertation

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

As Putin continues killing civilians, bombing kindergartens, and threatening WWIII, Ukraine fights for the world's peaceful future.

Ukraine Live Updates

77 interesting medical research topics for 2024

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Short on time? Get an AI generated summary of this article instead

Medical research is the gateway to improved patient care and expanding our available treatment options. However, finding a relevant and compelling research topic can be challenging.

Use this article as a jumping-off point to select an interesting medical research topic for your next paper or clinical study.

• How to choose a medical research topic

When choosing a research topic , it’s essential to consider a couple of things. What topics interest you? What unanswered questions do you want to address? 

During the decision-making and brainstorming process, here are a few helpful tips to help you pick the right medical research topic:

Focus on a particular field of study

The best medical research is specific to a particular area. Generalized studies are often too broad to produce meaningful results, so we advise picking a specific niche early in the process. 

Maybe a certain topic interests you, or your industry knowledge reveals areas of need.

Look into commonly researched topics

Once you’ve chosen your research field, do some preliminary research. What have other academics done in their papers and projects? 

From this list, you can focus on specific topics that interest you without accidentally creating a copycat project. This groundwork will also help you uncover any literature gaps—those may be beneficial areas for research.

Get curious and ask questions

Now you can get curious. Ask questions that start with why, how, or what. These questions are the starting point of your project design and will act as your guiding light throughout the process. 

For example: 

What impact does pollution have on children’s lung function in inner-city neighborhoods? 

Why is pollution-based asthma on the rise? 

How can we address pollution-induced asthma in young children? 

• 77 medical research topics worth exploring in 2023

Need some research inspiration for your upcoming paper or clinical study? We’ve compiled a list of 77 topical and in-demand medical research ideas. Let’s take a look. 

• Exciting new medical research topics

If you want to study cutting-edge topics, here are some exciting options:

COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms

Since 2020, COVID-19 has been a hot-button topic in medicine, along with the long-term symptoms in those with a history of COVID-19. 

Examples of COVID-19-related research topics worth exploring include:

The long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiac and respiratory health

COVID-19 vaccination rates

The evolution of COVID-19 symptoms over time

New variants and strains of the COVID-19 virus

Changes in social behavior and public health regulations amid COVID-19

Vaccinations

Finding ways to cure or reduce the disease burden of chronic infectious diseases is a crucial research area. Vaccination is a powerful option and a great topic to research. 

Examples of vaccination-related research topics include:

mRNA vaccines for viral infections

Biomaterial vaccination capabilities

Vaccination rates based on location, ethnicity, or age

Public opinion about vaccination safety 

Artificial tissues fabrication

With the need for donor organs increasing, finding ways to fabricate artificial bioactive tissues (and possibly organs) is a popular research area. 

Examples of artificial tissue-related research topics you can study include:

The viability of artificially printed tissues

Tissue substrate and building block material studies

The ethics and efficacy of artificial tissue creation

• Medical research topics for medical students

For many medical students, research is a big driver for entering healthcare. If you’re a medical student looking for a research topic, here are some great ideas to work from:

Sleep disorders

Poor sleep quality is a growing problem, and it can significantly impact a person’s overall health. 

Examples of sleep disorder-related research topics include:

How stress affects sleep quality

The prevalence and impact of insomnia on patients with mental health conditions

Possible triggers for sleep disorder development

The impact of poor sleep quality on psychological and physical health

How melatonin supplements impact sleep quality

Alzheimer’s and dementia 

Cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise worldwide. They currently have no cure. As a result, research about these topics is in high demand. 

Examples of dementia-related research topics you could explore include:

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in a chosen population

Early onset symptoms of dementia

Possible triggers or causes of cognitive decline with age

Treatment options for dementia-like conditions

The mental and physical burden of caregiving for patients with dementia

• Lifestyle habits and public health

Modern lifestyles have profoundly impacted the average person’s daily habits, and plenty of interesting topics explore its effects. 

Examples of lifestyle and public health-related research topics include:

The nutritional intake of college students

The impact of chronic work stress on overall health

The rise of upper back and neck pain from laptop use

Prevalence and cause of repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

• Controversial medical research paper topics

Medical research is a hotbed of controversial topics, content, and areas of study. 

If you want to explore a more niche (and attention-grabbing) concept, here are some controversial medical research topics worth looking into:

The benefits and risks of medical cannabis

Depending on where you live, the legalization and use of cannabis for medical conditions is controversial for the general public and healthcare providers.

Examples of medical cannabis-related research topics that might grab your attention include:

The legalization process of medical cannabis

The impact of cannabis use on developmental milestones in youth users

Cannabis and mental health diagnoses

CBD’s impact on chronic pain

Prevalence of cannabis use in young people

The impact of maternal cannabis use on fetal development 

Understanding how THC impacts cognitive function

Human genetics

The Human Genome Project identified, mapped, and sequenced all human DNA genes. Its completion in 2003 opened up a world of exciting and controversial studies in human genetics.

Examples of human genetics-related research topics worth delving into include:

Medical genetics and the incidence of genetic-based health disorders

Behavioral genetics differences between identical twins

Genetic risk factors for neurodegenerative disorders

Machine learning technologies for genetic research

Sexual health studies

Human sexuality and sexual health are important (yet often stigmatized) medical topics that need new research and analysis.

As a diverse field ranging from sexual orientation studies to sexual pathophysiology, examples of sexual health-related research topics include:

The incidence of sexually transmitted infections within a chosen population

Mental health conditions within the LGBTQIA+ community

The impact of untreated sexually transmitted infections

Access to safe sex resources (condoms, dental dams, etc.) in rural areas

• Health and wellness research topics

Human wellness and health are trendy topics in modern medicine as more people are interested in finding natural ways to live healthier lifestyles. 

If this field of study interests you, here are some big topics in the wellness space:

Gluten sensitivity

Gluten allergies and intolerances have risen over the past few decades. If you’re interested in exploring this topic, your options range in severity from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to full-blown anaphylaxis. 

Some examples of gluten sensitivity-related research topics include:

The pathophysiology and incidence of Celiac disease

Early onset symptoms of gluten intolerance

The prevalence of gluten allergies within a set population

Gluten allergies and the incidence of other gastrointestinal health conditions

Pollution and lung health

Living in large urban cities means regular exposure to high levels of pollutants. 

As more people become interested in protecting their lung health, examples of impactful lung health and pollution-related research topics include:

The extent of pollution in densely packed urban areas

The prevalence of pollution-based asthma in a set population

Lung capacity and function in young people

The benefits and risks of steroid therapy for asthma

Pollution risks based on geographical location

Plant-based diets

Plant-based diets like vegan and paleo diets are emerging trends in healthcare due to their limited supporting research. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the potential benefits or risks of holistic, diet-based medicine, examples of plant-based diet research topics to explore include:

Vegan and plant-based diets as part of disease management

Potential risks and benefits of specific plant-based diets

Plant-based diets and their impact on body mass index

The effect of diet and lifestyle on chronic disease management

Health supplements

Supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry. Many health-conscious people take supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine, and more. 

Examples of health supplement-related research topics worth investigating include:

Omega-3 fish oil safety and efficacy for cardiac patients

The benefits and risks of regular vitamin D supplementation

Health supplementation regulation and product quality

The impact of social influencer marketing on consumer supplement practices

Analyzing added ingredients in protein powders

• Healthcare research topics

Working within the healthcare industry means you have insider knowledge and opportunity. Maybe you’d like to research the overall system, administration, and inherent biases that disrupt access to quality care. 

While these topics are essential to explore, it is important to note that these studies usually require approval and oversight from an Institutional Review Board (IRB). This ensures the study is ethical and does not harm any subjects. 

For this reason, the IRB sets protocols that require additional planning, so consider this when mapping out your study’s timeline. 

Here are some examples of trending healthcare research areas worth pursuing:

The pros and cons of electronic health records

The rise of electronic healthcare charting and records has forever changed how medical professionals and patients interact with their health data. 

Examples of electronic health record-related research topics include:

The number of medication errors reported during a software switch

Nurse sentiment analysis of electronic charting practices

Ethical and legal studies into encrypting and storing personal health data

Inequities within healthcare access

Many barriers inhibit people from accessing the quality medical care they need. These issues result in health disparities and injustices. 

Examples of research topics about health inequities include:

The impact of social determinants of health in a set population

Early and late-stage cancer stage diagnosis in urban vs. rural populations

Affordability of life-saving medications

Health insurance limitations and their impact on overall health

Diagnostic and treatment rates across ethnicities

People who belong to an ethnic minority are more likely to experience barriers and restrictions when trying to receive quality medical care. This is due to systemic healthcare racism and bias. 

As a result, diagnostic and treatment rates in minority populations are a hot-button field of research. Examples of ethnicity-based research topics include:

Cancer biopsy rates in BIPOC women

The prevalence of diabetes in Indigenous communities

Access inequalities in women’s health preventative screenings

The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in Black populations

• Pharmaceutical research topics

Large pharmaceutical companies are incredibly interested in investing in research to learn more about potential cures and treatments for diseases. 

If you’re interested in building a career in pharmaceutical research, here are a few examples of in-demand research topics:

Cancer treatment options

Clinical research is in high demand as pharmaceutical companies explore novel cancer treatment options outside of chemotherapy and radiation. 

Examples of cancer treatment-related research topics include:

Stem cell therapy for cancer

Oncogenic gene dysregulation and its impact on disease

Cancer-causing viral agents and their risks

Treatment efficacy based on early vs. late-stage cancer diagnosis

Cancer vaccines and targeted therapies

Immunotherapy for cancer

Pain medication alternatives

Historically, opioid medications were the primary treatment for short- and long-term pain. But, with the opioid epidemic getting worse, the need for alternative pain medications has never been more urgent. 

Examples of pain medication-related research topics include:

Opioid withdrawal symptoms and risks

Early signs of pain medication misuse

Anti-inflammatory medications for pain control

• Identify trends in your medical research with Dovetail

Are you interested in contributing life-changing research? Today’s medical research is part of the future of clinical patient care. 

As your go-to resource for speedy and accurate data analysis , we are proud to partner with healthcare researchers to innovate and improve the future of healthcare.

Should you be using a customer insights hub?

Do you want to discover previous research faster?

Do you share your research findings with others?

Do you analyze research data?

Start for free today, add your research, and get to key insights faster

Editor’s picks

Last updated: 18 April 2023

Last updated: 27 February 2023

Last updated: 22 August 2024

Last updated: 5 February 2023

Last updated: 16 August 2024

Last updated: 9 March 2023

Last updated: 30 April 2024

Last updated: 12 December 2023

Last updated: 11 March 2024

Last updated: 4 July 2024

Last updated: 6 March 2024

Last updated: 5 March 2024

Last updated: 13 May 2024

Latest articles

Related topics, .css-je19u9{-webkit-align-items:flex-end;-webkit-box-align:flex-end;-ms-flex-align:flex-end;align-items:flex-end;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;row-gap:0;text-align:center;max-width:671px;}@media (max-width: 1079px){.css-je19u9{max-width:400px;}.css-je19u9>span{white-space:pre;}}@media (max-width: 799px){.css-je19u9{max-width:400px;}.css-je19u9>span{white-space:pre;}} decide what to .css-1kiodld{max-height:56px;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;}@media (max-width: 1079px){.css-1kiodld{display:none;}} build next, decide what to build next, log in or sign up.

Get started for free

Biomedical Research Paper Topics

This page offers students an extensive list of biomedical research paper topics , expert advice on how to choose these topics, and guidance on how to write a compelling biomedical research paper. The guide also introduces the services of iResearchNet, an academic assistance company that caters to the unique needs of each student. Offering expert writers, custom-written works, and a host of other features, iResearchNet provides the tools and support necessary for students to excel in their biomedical research papers.

100 Biomedical Research Paper Topics

Biomedical research is a vibrant field, with an extensive range of topics drawn from various sub-disciplines. It encompasses the study of biological processes, clinical medicine, and even technology and engineering applied to the domain of healthcare. Given the sheer breadth of this field, choosing a specific topic can sometimes be overwhelming. To help you navigate this rich landscape, here is a list of biomedical research paper topics, divided into ten categories, each with ten specific topics.

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

1. Genetics and Genomics

• Role of genetics in rare diseases
• Advances in gene editing: CRISPR technology
• Human genome project: findings and implications
• Genetic basis of cancer
• Personalized medicine through genomics
• Epigenetic modifications and disease progression
• Genomic data privacy and ethical implications
• Role of genetics in mental health disorders
• Prenatal genetic screening and ethical considerations
• Gene therapy in rare genetic disorders

2. Bioengineering and Biotechnology

• Tissue engineering in regenerative medicine
• Bioprinting of organs: possibilities and challenges
• Role of nanotechnology in targeted drug delivery
• Biosensors in disease diagnosis
• Bioinformatics in drug discovery
• Development and application of biomaterials
• Bioremediation and environmental cleanup
• Biotechnology in agriculture and food production
• Therapeutic applications of stem cells
• Role of biotechnology in pandemic preparedness

3. Neuroscience and Neurology

• Pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease
• Advances in Parkinson’s disease research
• Role of neuroimaging in mental health diagnosis
• Understanding the brain-gut axis
• Neurobiology of addiction
• Role of neuroplasticity in recovery from brain injury
• Sleep disorders and cognitive function
• Brain-computer interfaces: possibilities and ethical issues
• Neural correlates of consciousness
• Epigenetic influence on neurodevelopmental disorders

4. Immunology

• Immune response to COVID-19
• Role of immunotherapy in cancer treatment
• Autoimmune diseases: causes and treatments
• Vaccination and herd immunity
• The hygiene hypothesis and rising allergy prevalence
• Role of gut microbiota in immune function
• Immunosenescence and age-related diseases
• Role of inflammation in chronic diseases
• Advances in HIV/AIDS research
• Immunology of transplantation

5. Cardiovascular Research

• Advances in understanding and treating heart failure
• Role of lifestyle factors in cardiovascular disease
• Cardiovascular disease in women
• Hypertension: causes and treatments
• Pathophysiology of atherosclerosis
• Role of inflammation in heart disease
• Novel biomarkers for cardiovascular disease
• Personalized medicine in cardiology
• Advances in cardiac surgery
• Pediatric cardiovascular diseases

6. Infectious Diseases

• Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases
• Role of antiviral drugs in managing viral diseases
• Antibiotic resistance: causes and solutions
• Zoonotic diseases and public health
• Role of vaccination in preventing infectious diseases
• Infectious diseases in immunocompromised individuals
• Role of genomic sequencing in tracking disease outbreaks
• HIV/AIDS: prevention and treatment
• Advances in malaria research
• Tuberculosis: challenges in prevention and treatment

7. Aging Research

• Biological mechanisms of aging
• Impact of lifestyle on healthy aging
• Age-related macular degeneration
• Role of genetics in longevity
• Aging and cognitive decline
• Social aspects of aging
• Advances in geriatric medicine
• Aging and the immune system
• Role of physical activity in aging
• Aging and mental health

8. Endocrinology

• Advances in diabetes research
• Obesity: causes and health implications
• Thyroid disorders: causes and treatments
• Role of hormones in mental health
• Endocrine disruptors and human health
• Role of insulin in metabolic syndrome
• Advances in treatment of endocrine disorders
• Hormones and cardiovascular health
• Reproductive endocrinology
• Role of endocrinology in aging

9. Mental Health Research

• Advances in understanding and treating depression
• Impact of stress on mental health
• Advances in understanding and treating schizophrenia
• Child and adolescent mental health
• Mental health in the elderly
• Impact of social media on mental health
• Suicide prevention and mental health services
• Role of psychotherapy in mental health
• Mental health disparities

10. Oncology

• Advances in cancer immunotherapy
• Role of genomics in cancer diagnosis and treatment
• Lifestyle factors and cancer risk
• Early detection and prevention of cancer
• Advances in targeted cancer therapies
• Role of radiation therapy in cancer treatment
• Cancer disparities and social determinants of health
• Pediatric oncology: challenges and advances
• Role of stem cells in cancer
• Cancer survivorship and quality of life

These biomedical research paper topics represent a wide array of studies within the field of biomedical research, providing a robust platform to delve into the intricacies of human health and disease. Each topic offers a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable advancements in biomedical research, contributing to the ongoing quest to enhance human health and wellbeing.

Choosing Biomedical Research Paper Topics

The selection of a suitable topic for your biomedical research paper is a critical initial step that will largely influence the course of your study. The right topic will not only engage your interest but will also be robust enough to contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Here are ten tips to guide you in choosing the best topic for your biomedical research paper.

• Relevance to Your Coursework and Interests: Your topic should align with the courses you have taken or are currently enrolled in. Moreover, a topic that piques your interest will motivate you to delve deeper into research, resulting in a richer, more nuanced paper.
• Feasibility: Consider the practicality of your proposed research. Do you have access to the necessary resources, including the literature, laboratories, or databases needed for your study? Ensure that your topic is one that you can manage given your resources and time constraints.
• Novelty and Originality: While it is essential to ensure your topic aligns with your coursework and is feasible, strive to select a topic that brings a new perspective or fresh insight to your field. Originality enhances the contribution of your research to the broader academic community.
• Scope: A well-defined topic helps maintain a clear focus during your research. Avoid choosing a topic too broad that it becomes unmanageable, or so narrow that it lacks depth. Balancing the scope of your research is key to a successful paper.
• Future Career Goals: Consider how your chosen topic could align with or benefit your future career goals. A topic related to your future interests can provide an early start to your career, showcasing your knowledge in that particular field.
• Available Supervision and Mentoring: If you’re in a setting where you have a mentor or supervisor, choose a topic that fits within their area of expertise. This choice will ensure you have the best possible guidance during your research process.
• Ethical Considerations: Some topics may involve ethical considerations, particularly those involving human subjects, animals, or sensitive data. Make sure your topic is ethically sound and you’re prepared to address any related ethical considerations.
• Potential Impact: Consider the potential impact of your research on the field of biomedical science. The best research often addresses a gap in the current knowledge or has the potential to bring about change in healthcare practices or policies.
• Literature Gap: Literature review can help identify gaps in the existing body of knowledge. Choosing a topic that fills in these gaps can make your research more valuable and unique.
• Flexibility: While it’s essential to start with a clear topic, remain open to slight shifts or changes as your research unfolds. Your research might reveal a different angle or a more exciting question within your chosen field, so stay flexible.

Remember, choosing a topic should be an iterative process, and your initial ideas will likely evolve as you conduct a preliminary literature review and discuss your thoughts with your mentors or peers. The ultimate goal is to choose a topic that you are passionate about, as this passion will drive your work and make the research process more enjoyable and fulfilling.

How to Write a Biomedical Research Paper

Writing a biomedical research paper can be a daunting task. However, with careful planning and strategic execution, the process can be more manageable and rewarding. Below are ten tips to help guide you through the process of writing a biomedical research paper.

• Understand Your Assignment: Before you begin your research or writing, make sure you understand the requirements of your assignment. Know the expected length, due date, formatting style, and any specific sections or components you need to include.
• Thorough Literature Review: A comprehensive literature review allows you to understand the current knowledge in your research area and identify gaps where your research can contribute. It will help you shape your research question and place your work in context.
• Clearly Define Your Research Question: A well-defined research question guides your research and keeps your writing focused. It should be clear, specific, and concise, serving as the backbone of your study.
• Prepare a Detailed Outline: An outline helps organize your thoughts and create a roadmap for your paper. It should include all the sections of your research paper, such as the introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion.
• Follow the IMRaD Structure: Most biomedical research papers follow the IMRaD format—Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion. This structure facilitates the orderly and logical presentation of your research.
• Use Clear and Concise Language: Biomedical research papers should be written in a clear and concise manner to ensure the reader understands the research’s purpose, methods, and findings. Avoid unnecessary jargon and ensure that complex ideas are explained clearly.
• Proper Citation and Reference: Always properly cite the sources of information you use in your paper. This not only provides credit where it’s due but also allows your readers to follow your line of research. Be sure to follow the citation style specified in your assignment.
• Discuss the Implications: In your discussion, go beyond simply restating your findings. Discuss the implications of your results, how they relate to previous research, and how they contribute to the existing knowledge in the field.
• Proofread and Edit: Never underestimate the importance of proofreading and editing. Checking for grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, and clarity of language can enhance the readability of your paper.
• Seek Feedback Before Final Submission: Before submitting your paper, seek feedback from peers, mentors, or supervisors. Fresh eyes can often spot unclear sections or errors that you may have missed.

Writing a biomedical research paper is a significant academic endeavor, but remember that every researcher started where you are right now. It’s a process that requires time, effort, and patience. Remember, the ultimate goal is not just to get a good grade but also to contribute to the vast body of biomedical knowledge.

iResearchNet’s Custom Writing Services

Navigating the process of writing a biomedical research paper can be complex and demanding. At iResearchNet, we understand these challenges and strive to offer a stress-free, seamless solution to support your academic journey. With our roster of highly skilled, degree-holding writers, we are committed to delivering top-quality, custom-written papers tailored specifically to your individual requirements and desired outcomes.

• Expert Degree-Holding Writers: iResearchNet takes pride in our team of knowledgeable and experienced writers who hold advanced degrees in diverse fields. These writers are not only academic experts but are also keenly in tune with the complex landscape of biomedical research. This breadth and depth of expertise ensure that your paper benefits from a thorough understanding of the topic, resulting in a well-informed, academically credible document.
• Custom Written Works: We appreciate the unique academic goals and distinct requirements of each student. That’s why iResearchNet specializes in providing custom-written papers. Our aim is to capture your individual academic voice and perspective, blending it with our professional acumen to create a paper that reflects your specific academic needs and aspirations.
• In-Depth Research: Every paper that we produce is founded on the bedrock of extensive and in-depth research. Our writers are committed to exploring a wide range of credible and reputable sources to enrich your paper with diverse viewpoints and comprehensive information. This dedication to rigorous research ensures that your paper is not only thoroughly informed but also accurately referenced, adding to its academic integrity.
• Custom Formatting: Academic institutions often require different formatting styles. Be it APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard, our writers are adept at all these academic formatting styles. We strive to adhere strictly to your specified formatting style, contributing to the polished and professional presentation of your paper.
• Top Quality: Quality is the cornerstone of our services at iResearchNet. We believe that each paper we craft should demonstrate a high standard of scholarship. Our writers dedicate their skills and effort to ensure every aspect of your paper, from clarity of language to depth of analysis and precision of information, reflects top-quality work.
• Customized Solutions: Recognizing that each research paper brings a distinct set of challenges and requirements, we offer customized solutions. Our approach is to thoroughly understand your specific needs and shape our writing services accordingly. We ensure that every aspect of your paper, from its overarching structure to the smallest details, aligns with your expectations.
• Flexible Pricing: We believe that high-quality academic writing services should be accessible. That’s why we offer our top-quality services at competitive prices, striking a careful balance between affordability and excellence. We provide a range of pricing options designed to cater to various budget needs without compromising on the quality of our services.
• Short Deadlines: Facing a fast-approaching deadline can be nerve-wracking. But with iResearchNet, you need not worry. Our expert writers are skilled at delivering high-quality papers under tight deadlines, even as short as three hours. Despite the time pressure, we ensure that the quality of your paper remains top-notch.
• Timely Delivery: At iResearchNet, we understand the critical importance of adhering to deadlines in the academic world. We commit to the timely delivery of all orders, ensuring that you are always able to submit your work on time. With our service, you can put aside worries about late submissions.
• 24/7 Support: Academic queries or concerns can arise at any time, and we are here to assist you around the clock. We have a dedicated support team ready to answer your questions, address your concerns, or simply provide guidance about your project, at any time of the day or night.
• Absolute Privacy: Your privacy is of utmost importance to us. All personal and financial information you share with us is handled with the highest level of confidentiality and security. Our strict privacy policies ensure that your details remain safe and private.
• Easy Order Tracking: We believe in providing a seamless experience for our clients. With our user-friendly platform, you can track your order’s progress easily and stay updated on your paper’s status. This feature provides real-time status reports, giving you peace of mind and assurance about the progress of your work.
• Money Back Guarantee: Your satisfaction is our ultimate goal. We strive to meet your expectations, but if for any reason the final work falls short, we offer a money-back guarantee. This policy is a testament to our confidence in the quality of our services and our commitment to your academic success.

At iResearchNet, we strive to be more than just a writing service provider. We aspire to be a trusted academic partner, providing support and expertise to help you navigate the complexities of writing a biomedical research paper. With our combination of expert knowledge, high commitment to quality, and excellent customer service, we are the ideal choice for all your academic writing needs.

Start Your Journey to Academic Success with iResearchNet Today!

Are you ready to elevate your academic journey and achieve your full potential? At iResearchNet, we are prepared to be your trusted partner every step of the way. Our team of expert writers, experienced in biomedical research, are ready and waiting to transform your academic vision into a top-quality, custom-written biomedical research paper that meets all your requirements.

Navigating the complexities of biomedical research can be overwhelming, but with iResearchNet, you don’t have to do it alone. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to taking the stress out of the writing process, allowing you to focus on your learning. Imagine the relief of knowing your assignment is in the hands of experienced, degree-holding experts who are passionate about your success. With our meticulous research and thorough understanding of biomedical topics, we guarantee a paper that not only meets but surpasses your expectations.

From in-depth research and custom formatting to a final product that reflects the highest academic standards, iResearchNet provides a comprehensive solution for your academic needs. And it’s not just about delivering excellent papers. Our commitment extends to providing an exceptional experience marked by 24/7 support, absolute privacy, and a transparent order tracking system.

The clock is ticking, and your academic success is just a click away. Don’t let the opportunity to excel in your biomedical research paper slip through your fingers. Reach out to us today to start your journey with iResearchNet. You bring your academic aspirations, and we’ll bring our expertise and commitment. Together, let’s make your academic dreams come true.

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

Study at Cambridge

About the university, research at cambridge.

• Undergraduate courses
• Events and open days
• Fees and finance
• Postgraduate courses
• How to apply
• Postgraduate events
• Fees and funding
• International students
• Continuing education
• Executive and professional education
• Courses in education
• How the University and Colleges work
• Term dates and calendars
• Visiting the University
• Annual reports
• Equality and diversity
• A global university
• Public engagement
• Give to Cambridge
• For Cambridge students
• For our researchers
• Business and enterprise
• Colleges & departments
• Email & phone search
• Museums & collections
• For Undergraduates
• Natural Science Tripos (NST)
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences
• Faculty of Biology
• For Undergraduates overview
• Medical Sciences Tripos (MedST) overview
• Prospective Students overview
• The Medicine Course overview
• Open Day Medicine Slides 2021
• How to Apply to the Medicine Course overview
• Costs of Studying Medicine at Cambridge
• What our students say
• Current Students overview
• Information for Freshers overview
• Preparatory work for Medicine freshers
• Basic Science Concepts for Med/VetST Students
• The Preclinical Course - Years 1 & 2 overview
• Foundations of Evidence-Based Practice
• Preparing for Patients
• Social and Ethical Context of Health and Illness
• MedST Programme Specifications
• The Part II - Year 3
• The Clinical Course - Years 4 to 6
• Timetables overview
• Course Organisers
• Your Voice overview
• Governance and Contact Details
• Exams and Assessments
• Expand your skills
• Natural Science Tripos (NST) overview
• NST Biology Course Information overview
• NST Part IA Biology of Cells overview
• NST Part IA Biology of Cells information for students about Moodle
• NST Part IA Biology of Cells information for supervisors
• NST Part IA Biology of Cells assessment
• NST Part IA Biology of Cells Statement on Study Hours during Term Time
• NST Part IA Mathematical Biology overview
• Aims and learning outcomes
• Components of the course
• Synopses of lectures and practicals
• Part IA Mathematical Biology Practicals
• Mathematical Biology Installation Guide
• NST Part IA Evolution & Behaviour overview
• Aims and structure
• Information for supervisors
• NST Part IA Physiology of Organisms overview
• What is physiology?
• Careers in physiology
• Aims and Objectives
• Course Structure
• Supervisions
• Information for Supervisors
• Reading List
• Help for students lacking physics
• NST Part IB Evolution & Animal Diversity
• NST Part IB Cell & Developmental Biology overview
• NST Part IB CDB Lectures and Practicals
• NST Part IB CDB Libraries, Book Lists and Articles: How To Extend Your Knowledge
• NST Part IB CDB Assessment: Exams and What Examiners Are Looking For
• NST Part IB CDB Information for Supervisors
• NST Part IB Neurobiology
• NST Part IB Ecology, Evolution & Conservation
• Biological and Biomedical Sciences overview
• What is BBS?
• Choosing your Major Subject
• Choosing your Minor Subject
• Permissible Subject Combinations
• Dissertations
• Administration of the BBS course
• Online Information Resources
• Your Feedback and How We Responded
• What our Students Say
• Information for staff
• Psychological and Behavioural Sciences (PBS) Tripos
• Veterinary Sciences Tripos (VetST) overview
• The Veterinary Medicine Course
• How to Apply to the Veterinary Medicine Course overview
• Costs of Studying Veterinary Medicine at Cambridge
• Preparatory work for Veterinary Medicine freshers
• The Veterinary Medicine Course overview
• Principles of Animal Management (PAM)
• Preparing for the Veterinary Profession (PfVP)
• VetST Programme Specifications
• VetST Course Representatives
• Information for All Students overview
• Student Support
• Student Complaints Procedure
• Student Feedback
• Undergraduate Research
• Exams and Assessment overview
• Examination Information Relevant to all Courses overview
• Examination Skills
• Faculty Board Guidance on Plagiarism
• Examiner Code of Conduct
• Med/VetST Exam & Assessment Information overview
• Examination Structure and Papers
• Med/VetST Form and Conduct Notices
• Med/VetST Passmarks
• Med/VetST Your Results
• Med/VetST Resit Policy overview
• Med/VetST Senior Examiner Guidelines
• 2nd MB/2nd Vet MB External Examiners
• Examination Data Retention Policy
• MVST Student Progress Panel
• NST Exam & Assessment Information overview
• NST Course Rotation Summary overview
• Departmental rota responsibilities 2023-2027
• Departmental rota responsibilities 2016-2023
• Departmental rota responsibilities 2007-2018
• NST Senior Examiner Guidelines
• Taught Postgraduate Examination Data Retention Policy
• For Postgraduates overview
• Funding Support
• MPhil in Biological Sciences
• For Departmental Staff overview
• Academic Appointments overview
• Assistant Staff
• Unestablished Appointments and Promotions
• Academic Career Pathway Promotions
• Leave of Absence
• Research and Funding overview
• Support for Teaching overview
• For College Staff
• Governance overview
• Faculty Board
• Faculty Student Representatives
• Strategic Committees overview
• Medical Education Committee
• MVST Part I Committee
• Biological Sciences Committee
• PBS Management Committee
• Quality Assurance

Example Dissertation Titles

• Exams and Assessment
• For Postgraduates
• For Departmental Staff

Major subjects

Biochemistry.

Do histone modifications control gene expression?

Does endotoxin cause or contribute to neurodegenerative diseases?

Molecular interactions of drugs with the allosteric sites of vertebrate Cys-loop receptors

Why do bacteria carry toxin-antitoxin systems?

Aneuploidy in cancer: lessons so far

Big data in genomics and healthcare and how it has defined cancer diagnosis and treatment

Modelling in Biology: accurate descriptions of our pathetic thinking or pathetic descriptions of the real world?

Trace the economic and biological causes of the current antibiotic resistance crisis. Is there a solution and, if so, does it lie in the hands of patients, clinicians, regulators or researchers?

Transposable elements – a powerful force driving evolution

Can the gut microbiota influence host appetite? Implications for the aetiology of obesity

Can vaccine innovation solve the last mile problem for vaccines in low-resource settings

Eradication of Polio: Past Challenges and Future Prospects

Is the age of antibiotics over?

Microbiome regulation of the gut-brain axis: implications for anxiety and depression

On the origin of the bacterial flagellum: an example of irreducible complexity?

Recent advances in the blockade of immune checkpoints in cancer immunotherapy

What are the major causes of delay in response to emerging disease outbreaks: the case of the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa

Pharmacology

Cystic-fibrosis related diabetes

How do SNAREs mediate membrane fusion?

Is CRISPR ready for the clinic?

Phantom pain: a ghost in the machine or a biological basis?

Plant-derived polysaccharides - sweet medicine of tomorrow?

Why are opioids problematic analgesics?

Plant Sciences

"Scrambled Genomes": examining the methodology and goals of the Sc2.0 synthetic genome project

Engineering C4 Rice: Molecular Targets and Progress so far

Is Trehalose-6-phosphate a central regulator of plant carbon partitioning?

Sucrose signalling and its role in plant development

Who needs cells anyway?

Is visual adaptation diminished in autism spectrum disorders?

Memory reconsolidation blockade: a novel treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Parental influence on child language development: does gender matter?

Sleep disorders as model for Consciousness Research: a cognitive framework for parasomnias

The role of genetics in the transgenerational transmission of memories

The role of insulin in cognitive decline in the elderly

Physiology, Development and Neuroscience

Adaptations of cancer cells for metastasis to the brain

How and why is the infant gut microbiota affected by caesarean section? The crying need for well-designed research

How do astrocytes support and modulate neuronal function? Exploring neurovascular coupling, neurometabolic coupling, and gliotransmission

The missing nuances of science and society: How popular science is shaping policy and understanding

The role of operant conditioning in spinal cord plasticity and its potential therapeutic implications for spinal cord injury

The significance of proinflammatory mediators in disrupting HRV: a link to cardiovascular morbidity in schizophrenia?

Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour

Prenatal stress: relevance to major depressive disorder

Promises and limitations of a combinatorial approach to spinal cord injury

Social neurons? A critical examination of how individual neurons might implement primate social cognition

The bidirectional relationship between the hippocampus and metabolic syndrome

The Cognitive and Neurobiological Benefits of an Imperfect Memory

Why are drug seeking habits maladaptive?

How have homosexual mating preferences evolved in males and females?

How relevant is the Drosophila segmentation paradigm to the study of segmentation in other arthropods and other animals?

Mechanisms of mass extinction

Migration of Homo erectus out of Africa

The meaning of alarm calls: honesty and deception

Wolves verses Eurasian Lynx as candidates for large predator reintroduction in mainland Britain - which may be the most suitable and why?

Minor subjects

Conservation science.

Causes and remedies for the decline in red squirrel numbers in Britain

How do deer impact forest organisms in UK lowland woodland?

Reintroduction and translocation as conservation tools for rhinos

Translocation as a tool for tiger ( Panthera tigris ) conservation: problems and potential solutions

With respect to myxomatosis and RHD virus how have rabbit populations co-evolved with the viruses and how may rabbit populations be affected in the future?

Development and Psychopathology

To what extent have biasing in screening and diagnosis contributed to the sex ratios observed in autism?

Health, Medicine and Society

Medicalisation and violence against women: implications for the medical encounter

Human Ecology and Behaviour

The use of wood in prehistory

Neural Degeneration and Regeneration

Progress towards establishing lead times of biomarkers for early diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease

The Pharmacological Targeting of the Amyloid-beta pathway in Alzheimer's: issues and prospects

Philosophy and Ethics of Medicine

Dementia: how changing perspectives affect clinical decision making

Should the MMR vaccine be mandatory? The problem of herd immunity threshold

Psychology and Social Issues

Reducing Extremist Violence by increasing Integrative Complexity - why understanding the role of emotion is central to success

Information contacts

For information regarding Major Subjects such as content and timetables, please see the contact details on the Major Subjects webpage .

For information regarding Minor Subjects such as content and timetables, please see the contact details on the Minor Subjects webpage .

For general administration of BBS and general questions which cannot be answered in departments, please contact the Faculty of Biology Office ( [email protected] )

If you wish to move to or from BBS or wish to change Major and/or Minor subject(s), please contact the departments involved AND the Faculty of Biology Office.

© 2024 University of Cambridge

• Contact the University
• Accessibility
• Freedom of information
• Privacy policy and cookies
• Statement on Modern Slavery
• Terms and conditions
• University A-Z
• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate
• Research news
• About research at Cambridge
• Spotlight on...

UKnowledge > College of Engineering > Biomedical Engineering > Theses & Dissertations

Theses and Dissertations--Biomedical Engineering

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

DEVELOPING AN IMMUNOMODULATORY STRATEGY USING BIOPHYSICAL CUES TO MODULATE MACROPHAGE PHENOTYPE FOR FRACTURE HEALING AND BONE REGENERATION , Harshini Suresh Kumar

RELATING TEMPERATURE, SLEEP, AND PATHOLOGY IN MOUSE MODELS OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE , Jun Wang

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

A Wearable Fiber-Free Optical Sensor for Continuous Measurements of Cerebral Blood Flow and Oxygenation , Xuhui Liu

3-DIMENSIONAL MUSCLE CONSTRUCTS: USING HYDROGELS IN ORDER TO MODEL THE EFFECTS OF EXERCISE IN DISEASE CONDITIONS , Mark McHargue

MULTISCALE AND MULTIMODALITY OPTICAL IMAGING OF BRAIN HEMODYNAMICS AND FUNCTION , Mehrana Mohtasebi

DEFINING SAGITTAL PLANE GAIT MECHANICS AND JOINT LOADING IN PEOPLE WITH MARFAN SYNDROME , Justin Melan Pol

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

USE OF IMAGE PROCESSING TECHNIQUES AND MACHINE LEARNING FOR BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF T GONDII BIOLOGY , Amer Asiri

An Electrochemical, Fluidic, Chip-Based Biosensor for Biomarker Detection , Lauren Bell

VOLUNTARY CONTROL OF BREATHING ACCORDING TO THE BREATHING PATTERN DURING LISTENING TO MUSIC AND NON-CONTACT MEASUREMENT OF HEART RATE AND RESPIRATION , Dibyajyoti Biswal

Characterizing the Internal Porous Structure of Equine Proximal Sesamoid Bones Subjected to Race Training Using Fast Fourier Transforms , Joseph Erik Davis

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

CHARACTERIZATION OF MODULATION AND COHERENCE IN SENSORIMOTOR RHYTHMS USING DIFFERENT ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHIC SIGNAL DERIVATIONS , Stephen Dundon

Analysis of Graded Sensorimotor Rhythms for Brain-Computer Interface Applications , Chase Allen Haddix

NOVEL TOOLS FOR ANALYSIS OF DISORDERED SLEEP AND MOTOR BEHAVIOR IN PRECLINICAL MODELS OF DISEASE , Dillon M. Huffman

CHANGES IN CARDIOVASCULAR, RESPIRATORY, AND NEURAL ACTIVITY BY MUSIC: EFFECTS OF BREATHING PATHWAY ON FEELING EMOTIONS , Mohammad Javad Mollakazemi

Facilitating Analysis of Toxoplasma gondii Bradyzoite Metabolic Activity via Image Processing and Multivariate Logistic Regression for High Throughput Classification of Mitochondrial Morphologies , Brooke Place

WORK-RELATED CHANGES IN THE TRUNK STIFFNESS OF NURSING PERSONNEL , Clare Tyler

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

HIGH FREQUENCY OSCILLATIONS IN THE EPILEPTIC BRAIN: ACCURATE DETECTION, EFFECT OF VIGILANCE STATE, AND SAMPLE SIZE CONSIDERATIONS , Amir Fared Partu Al-Bakri

ATV Dynamics and Pediatric Rider Safety , James T. Auxier II

Assessment of White Matter Hyperintensity, Cerebral Blood Flow, and Cerebral Oxygenation in Older Subjects Stratified by Cerebrovascular Risk , Ahmed A. Bahrani

EFFECTS OF A HIP ORTHOSIS ON LUMBOPELVIC COORDINATION IN INDIVIDUALS WITH AND WITHOUT LOW BACK PAIN , Colin Drury

Noncontact Multiscale Diffuse Optical Imaging of Deep Tissue Hemodynamics in Animals and Humans , Siavash Mazdeyasna

Work Related Diurnal Changes in Trunk Mechanical Behavior , Maeve McDonald

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

A POSSIBLE LINK BETWEEN R-WAVE AMPLITUDE ALTERNANS AND T-WAVE ALTERNANS IN ECGs , Sahar Alaei

BIOMECHANICAL EFFECTS OF A HIP ORTHOSIS ON LUMBO-PELVIC COORDINATION , Matthew Ballard

CALIBRATED SHORT TR RECOVERY MRI FOR RAPID MEASUREMENT OF BRAIN-BLOOD PARTITION COEFFICIENT AND CORRECTION OF QUANTITATIVE CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW , Scott William Thalman

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS

Browse by Author

• Collections
• Disciplines

Author Corner

• Submit Research

New Title Here

Below. --> connect.

• Law Library
• Special Collections
• Copyright Resource Center
• Graduate School
• Scholars@UK

• We’d like your feedback

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

University of Kentucky ®

An Equal Opportunity University Accreditation Directory Email Privacy Policy Accessibility Disclosures

• Bodleian Libraries
• Oxford LibGuides
• Biomedical Sciences
• Theses and Dissertations

Biomedical Sciences: Theses and Dissertations

• Journals and Conference Proceedings
• Writing for Publication
• Keeping up to date

Introduction

Theses and dissertations are documents that present an author's research findings, which are submitted to the University in support of their academic degree. They are very useful to consult when carrying out your own research because they:

• provide a springboard to scope existing literature
• provide inspiration for the finished product
• show you the evolution of an author's ideas over time
• provide relevant and up-to-date research (for recent theses and dissertations)

On this page you will find guidance on how to search for and access theses and dissertations in the Bodleian Libraries and beyond.

Definitions

Terms you may encounter in your research.

Thesis: In the UK, a thesis is normally a document that presents an author's research findings as part of a doctoral or research programme.

Dissertation: In the UK, a dissertation is normally a document that presents an author's research findings as part of an undergraduate or master's programme.

DPhil: An abbreviation for Doctor of Philosophy, which is an advanced research qualification. You may also see it referred to as PhD.

ORA: The Oxford University Research Archive , an institutional repository for the University of Oxford's research output including digital theses.

Theses and dissertations

• Reading theses and dissertations in the Bodleian Libraries

The Bodleian Libraries collection holds DPhil, MLitt and MPhil theses deposited at the University of Oxford, which you can consult. You may also be interested to read theses and dissertations beyond the University of Oxford, some of which can be read online, or you can request an inter-library loan.

Help with theses and dissertations

To find out more about how to find and access theses and dissertations in the Bodleian Libraries and beyond, we recommend the following:

• Bodleian Libraries theses and dissertations Links to information on accessing the Bodleian Libraries collections of Oxford, UK, US and other international theses.
• Oxford University Research Archive guide
• Help & guidance for digital theses Information on copyright, how to deposit your thesis in ORA and other important matters
• Guide to copyright The Bodleian Libraries' Quick guide to copyright and digital sources.

Plagiarism checking tools

Read the University academic good practice page.

Seek your Supervisor or Tutor's guidance. In addition, your Supervisor or Tutor may decide to submit your work to Turnitin, accessible to teaching staff only. Visit the Turnitin website for product information.

Consult books - suggested reading:

• Cite Them Right An online referencing tools which gives examples and generates citations from a choice of 7 referencing systems for print and electronic formats. The citations can be copied into your work or emailed. The referencing systems are Harvard (author-date), APA, MLA, MHRA, OSCOLA, Vancouver and Chicago. Citations can be created for a very diverse range of sources, including books, journals, digital resources and websites, audiovisual material, unpublished material (theses, manuscripts, etc.), financial & scientific reports, genealogical sources (wills, censuses, etc.), legal material, government and other official publications, and other forms of communication sources (email, Twitter, graffiti, etc.). more... less... Alternative name: Cite Them Right Online An online referencing tools which gives examples and generates citations from a choice of 7 referencing systems for print and electronic formats. The citations can be copied into your work or emailed. The referencing systems are Harvard (author-date), APA, MLA, MHRA, OSCOLA, Vancouver and Chicago. Citations can be created for a very diverse range of sources, including books, journals, digital resources and websites, audiovisual material, unpublished material (theses, manuscripts, etc.), financial & scientific reports, genealogical sources (wills, censuses, etc.), legal material, government and other official publications, and other forms of communication sources (email, Twitter, graffiti, etc.). Note that “Manuscripts” are located in Book > More books.

Depositing your thesis

It is mandatory for students completing a research degree at the University of Oxford (registered to a programme of study on or after 1st October 2007) to deposit an electronic copy of their theses with the Oxford University Research Archive (ORA) in order to meet the requirements of their award. To find out more, visit the Oxford University Research Archive guide.

Quick access to research & writing guides

• Research integrity and ethics The University of Oxford regards research integrity as a core value and has a longstanding commitment to ensuring that it is embedded in its research culture and activity
• Academic good practice Advice on academic good practice including avoiding plagiarism, managing your time, reading, note taking, referencing and revision.
• << Previous: Databases
• Next: Workshops >>
• Last Updated: Aug 23, 2024 12:03 PM
• URL: https://libguides.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/biomedical-sciences

Website feedback

Accessibility Statement - https://visit.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/accessibility

Google Analytics - Bodleian Libraries use Google Analytics cookies on this web site. Google Analytics anonymously tracks individual visitor behaviour on this web site so that we can see how LibGuides is being used. We only use this information for monitoring and improving our websites and content for the benefit of our users (you). You can opt out of Google Analytics cookies completely (from all websites) by visiting https://tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout

© Bodleian Libraries 2021. Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Licence

Imperial College London Imperial College London

Latest news.

Brain fluid surgery to a world-first lunar-Earth flyby: News from Imperial

Professor Jonathan Weber reflects on his time as AHSC Director

Food allergy doubles in the UK over last decade but many still without treatment

• Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction
• Faculty of Medicine
• Departments
• Postgraduate taught

Biomedical research projects

General biomedical research.

• Regulation of insulin secretion hotspots by the GLP-1 receptor
• Optimisation of an ultra fast assay for metabolic profiling: application to clinical studies
• Can Non-Invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation alter the Cholinergic Metabolome in Parkinson’s Disease patients?
• The feasibility and accuracy of a markerless motion capture for measuring parameters related to both normal and osteoarthritic gait and daily activities.
• Wearable microneedle aptasensor of psychiatric biomarkers in mental health monitoring
• Generating a Methyl-Proteomics Library for Studying Protein Methylation in Cancer
• Immune-regulatory role of IL-27 axis in liver injury
• Development and optimization of proteomic and metabolomic analysis of biological samples using Laser Desorption Rapid Evaporative Ionisation Mass Spectrometry
• NNAT aggregation and loss of heterogeneity as causative factors in beta cell dysfunction in diabetes
• Towards elucidation of 3D myocardial microstructure by ex-vivo Diffusion Tensor Cardiac Magnetic Resonance and 3D Histology
• Developing a chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay as an xenograft model to study soft-tissue sarcoma drug development
• Molecular mechanisms underpinning the extensive, multi-organelle dysfunction caused by the toxin L-amino acid oxidase
• The role of mTORC2 in regulation of hESC stiffness and cell fate
• Transient PiggyBac-based Genome Engineering to Produce Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
• AstraZeneca Sponsored Project: Proteomic analysis of human mesenchymal stem cell cross-talk with haematopoietic stem cells in 3 dimensional niche of complex in vitro model of bone marrow

Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care

• Investigating the importance of microvesicle-delivered FADD on epithelial cell function during ventilator-induced lung injury
• Evaluation of a novel medical device to prevent epidural hyperthermia
• Evidence Synthesis to Inform Neuropathic Pain Mangement
• Modelling labour contraction pain through Electrical muscle stimulation.
• The role of the nuclear enzyme mitogen- and stress-activated kinase 1 in noxious heat sensitivity of primary sensory neutrons
• Mechanisms of monocyte de-activation by neutrophil extracellular vesicles in sepsis
• Modulation of neutrophil extracellular vesicle pro-inflammatory activity by complement
• The effects of blocking MSK1 on tissue inflammation and wound healing
• Neutrophil extracellular trap production in severe febrile illness in children
• Preclinical investigation of brain injury due to carbon monoxide poisoning

Bacterial Pathogenesis and Infection

• Analysis of OMV-based vaccine strategies to combat Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC)
• Exploring the mechanism of Salmonella effector kinase, SteC, in the mammalian host
• Investigating the role of TRIM E3 ligase proteins during Salmonella infection
• Poisons and antidotes - defining the antibacterial effector repertoire of Pseudomonas aeruginosa’s T6SS
• Pathogenicity island transduction and the evolution of bacterial pathogens
• Impact of targeting inhibitory immune receptors by urogenital bacterial pathogens.
• Using a Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)-based screen to identify novel factors that regulate c-di-AMP production in Staphylococcus aureus.
• Understanding golden staph and its friends: genomic analysis of staphylococcal nasal carriage in UK military personnel at high risk of skin infections
• The role of KRT10 in invasive bacterial infections of childhood
• Understanding the pathogenesis of the priority nosocomial pathogen Enterobacter cloacae

Data Science

• Physics-Informed Neural Networks to Predict Blood Glucose Levels in Patients with Type-I Diabetes
• Explainable prognostic models for progressive pulmonary fibrosis
• Border Rendering Feature Orthogonal Network for Blood Vessel Segmentation
• Revealing the hidden fingerprints of drug exposure and metabolism in population-scale metabolomics data by statistical correlation and database development.
• Integrative analysis of single-cell RNA-Seq data to explore the association of mosaic loss of chromosome Y with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
• Exploring Expression Patterns and Shared Genetic Mechanisms in MS through Integrative Genetic Analysis
• Unpaired Style Mapping using Generative Models Techniques for Medical Image Segmentation
• Characteristics of Urinary Pathogens in People Living with Dementia
• Integrating transcriptomic, epigenomic, and transcription factor binding data to unravel the function of TSPO in microglia.
• Machine Learning Applications to Radiomics of Early Pregnancy Ultrasound To Predict Miscarriage

Epidemiology, Evolution and Control of Infectious Diseases

• A systematic review and estimation of the effects of temperature on yellow fever vector development and survival
• Estimating the impact of cholera interventions on disease burden in Somalia
• Evolution and global spatio-temporal spread of Coxsackievirus A6
• Modelling the spread of drug resistance to a key malaria prevention drug in children
• Are complex models necessary to realistically measure epidemic spread?
• Quantifying the contribution of surveillance datastreams in informing key epidemiological drivers of the Covid-19 pandemic in the UK
• Applying machine learning to the automated interpretation of genomic epidemiology data
• Towards HIV elimination: a mathematical model-based examination of transmission in Manicaland, Zimbabwe
• The potential impact of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) on HIV outcomes in Western Africa: a mathematical modelling analysis

Microbiome in Health and Disease

• One-Health surveillance of emerging antifungal resistance across a UK cohort of farms, homes and green-waste recyclers
• Optimisation of storage and transportation of high throughput DESI swab testing of vaginal dysbiosis.
• Exploring the impact of Mediterranean and Western diet on the gut bacterial metabolism
• Westernisation of the faecal metabolic profiles
• Measuring bacterial sugar nutrients in faecal samples by LC-MS/MS to assess the risk of pathogenic gut colonisation upon administration of antibiotics
• The role of cervicovaginal microbiome on cervical carcinogenesis
• Testing and developing novel drying matrices for Intestinal Microbiota Transplant capsules.
• Can stabilized stool samples be used for bacterial culture, basic proteomics and clinical diagnostics?

Molecular Basis of Human Disease

• How does proteostasis restrict toxic protein aggregates from damaging the cell?
• The role of Mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) in human pancreatic β-cells
• Investigating the role of CD63 in human adipose stem cells
• How the bacterial type II secretion system powers toxin release
• The Tight adherence molecular machine builds pili and drives bacterial pathogenesis
• Novel neuromodulators from the gut microbiome
• Biosensor screening using a bacterial synthetic memory circuit
• Spatial biosensor development for the inflammatory biomarker sialic acid
• Using wildDISCO to characterise disruption of sleep-wake cycles in Alzheimer's disease
• Investigating the impact of genomic diversity on cell wall chemistry in Aspergillus fumigatus

Respiratory and Cardiovascular Science

• Characterisation of lung pericytes and how inflammation can shape them
• The role of mitochondrial dynamics in cardiac inflammatory phenotype
• Identification of the miRNA markers of cardiac fibrosis from heart failure patients using new nanopore technology
• Investigating the role of MAP4 and microtubule dynamics in heart failure.
• How does PDE4B involve in the β2AR-cAMP compartmentation during hypoosmotic stress?
• A systematic review and meta-analysis of trial evidence evaluating behavioural interventions to reduce asthma symptoms
• Interactions of Immune Sub-populations with Cardiac Cell Types in Post-Infarct Human and Mouse Hearts
• Role of sympathetic neurons in regulating cardiomyocyte conductance and electrical properties.
• Aspergillus-specific immune responses in chronic respiratory disease
• Characterization of MSC-derived exosomes from 3D culture systems

You can download a full list of the projects and supervisors for each stream below.

MRes BMR 2023-24 Projects  (all streams)

Home > USC Columbia > Engineering and Computing, College of > Biomedical Engineering > Biomedical Engineering Theses and Dissertations

Biomedical Engineering Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Laboratory Management Models in Core Facilities , Karmen Michael Owen

Detecting Physiological Concentrations of Alzheimer’s Associated Amyloid-β Protein Utilizing a Cell-Based Response , Brittany Elizabeth Watson

Leveraging Inflammatory Responses Toward Advancing Alzheimer’s Disease Treatments and Biomaterial Implantation , Mihyun Lim Waugh

Volume Change Measurements of Cancer Cells in a Microfluidics Platform , Yukuan Yu

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Investigating the Impact of Endothelial Dysfunction and Aging On Vascular Remodeling Using Mouse Models , Liya Du

Histomechanical Compatibility of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafts , Colton J. Kostelnik

The Effect of Pulsed Field DC Electrophoresis and Field Amplified Sample Stacking on the Microchip Electrophoretic Separation of Organic Dyes , Travis Geoffrey Stewart

Long Non-coding RNA PVT1 – An Exploratory Study in Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer , Kevin Tabury

Interrogating the Role of ING4 in Hematopoietic Stem Cells and Cancer , Zanshé Thompson

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

An in Vitro Approach To Vascular Therapeutic Testing , Shahd Ali Hasanain

Age and Sex Dependency of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Progression in a Mouse Model of Marfan Syndrome , Nazli Gharraee

Impaired Metabolic Flexibility in a Mouse Model Of Leigh Syndrome , Richard Sterling McCain Jr

Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction and Effects on Arterial Wall Microstructure , Jeffrey Thomas Rodgers

The Immune Modulatory Role of Endocannabinoid Anandamide to Suppress Inflammation Through Regulation of Microrna and Microbiome , Muthanna Ali Sultan

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Advanced Geometric Analyses in Vascular Disease and Interventions , Dara Ahmadi Azar

Nitric Oxide Expression With Age and Diet in the Arterial Wall of Apoe Knockout Mice , Kara Cooper

cis -Resveratrol Upregulates Tyrosyl-tRNA Synthetase and Inhibits the Proliferation of Select Breast Cancer Cell Lines , Marion Cone Hope III

Using Human Granulosa Cells to Select the Most Competent Embryos for Uterine Transfer in in Vitro Fertilization Cycles , Richard John Kordus

Effect of Cannabinoid Treatment on Immune Cell Functions During Acute Lung Injury , Amira Kamil Mohammed

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Beneficial Effects of Resveratrol Against Colitis and Colorectal Cancer Mediated by the Host Microbiome, Epigenome, and Immune Response , Haider Rasheed Daham Alrafas

Three-Dimensional Plasma Cell Survival Microniche in Multiple Myeloma , Katrina A. Harmon

Adipose Tissue Engineering: A Therapeutic Strategy for the Treatment of Obesity and Glucose Intolerance , Michael A. Hendley

Role of P-Glycoprotein in Alzheimer’s Disease for Enhanced Brain Elimination of Amyloid-β , Hope Holt

Three-Dimensional Collagen Tubes for In Vitro Modeling , Rebecca Jones

Experimental Methods and Techniques for Improved Biomechanical Characterization of Diverse Murine Aortopathies , Brooks Alexander Lane

Experimental Study of Free-Solution Separation Under Pulsed Electrophoresis in Microchip , Xin Liu

Biophysical Analyses of Left Ventricular Remodeling Secondary to Myocardial Infarction and Left Ventricular Pressure Overload , William Manuel Torres

RAGE Expression and Inflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease: in Vitro Model Development and Investigation of a Potential Peptoid Inhibitor , Lauren Michell Wolf

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Identification of the Mechanisms Through Which Botanicals Attenuate Pathogenesis of Human Diseases , Esraah Alharris

A Comprehensive Reengineering Of The Hospital Emergency Triage System , Nicholas D. Boltin

Matrix Stiffness Modulates Mesenchymal Stem Cell Sensitivity to Geometric Asymmetry Signals , Maria Eugenia Piroli

Association Between Mechanics And Biology In Vascular Graft Remodeling , David Andrew Prim

Modulation Of Amyloid-β Aggregation Via Small Molecules And Glycine Zipper Alterations , Steven Zebulon Vance

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Atherosclerotic Plaque Adhesion Strength and its role in Plaque Rupture , Bilal Merei

Far-Field Optical Microscopy Based on Stimulated Emission Depletion , Yunxia Wang

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

A Theoretical Study of Polymer based Drug Delivery Systems , Ebtisam Abdullatif Aldaais

Automated Image Analysis And Spatial Computational Modeling Of NF-kB In Cerebrovascular Endothelial Cells , Kasey Catalfomo

Therapeutic Potential Of Catechins And Derivatives For The Prevention Of Alzheimer’s Disease , Shelby Elaine Chastain

A Mechanical Approach to the Characterization of Material Failure of Atherosclerotic Lesions , Lindsey A. Davis

Enabling Studies to Optimize Biomaterials for the Treatment of Myocardial Infarction , Eva Adriana Romito

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Effects of Cell Adhesion Peptides, pH, and Matrix Shape on Maintenance of Breast Cancer Stem Cells in an Engineered Hydrogel Matrix , Leily Daneshian

Design and Development of a Ventilation Chamber for Testing Efficacy of Tracheal Stents , Caroline N. Horton

Material Considerations for Development of 3D Printed Bronchial and Tracheal Stents , Nidah M. Hussain

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Isolation of Natural Nrf2 Activators from American Ginseng , Akrm Abdalrahman

Genes Mediating Cardiac Remodeling During Pregnancy and the Early Post-Partum-Period in Mice , Esam Aljrbi

A Three-Dimensional in Vitromodel of Atherogenesis , Pin Hsuan Chang

Identifying Performance Criteria of Fully Bioresorbable Scaffolds for Endovascular Applications , Jahid Ferdous

Novel Conditioning Protocols Focusing on Oxygen Manipulation to Enhance Stem Cell Transplantation , Brandon William Hanna

Developing a Bioreactor for Biaxial Mechanical Testing and Conditioning of Vascular Tissue , Steve Marcous

Experimental and Theoretical Studies of Native and Engineered Vascular Tissue Mechanics , Boran Zhou

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Toward Directing Cell Fate: Carbon Nanotubes As Modulators of Extracellular and Transporters of Intracellular Cues , Qingsu Cheng

Biomechanics of Porcine Renal Artery and the Development of A Replacment Vessel , Mohamed Gabr

Osteon-Mimetic Nanocomposite Materials For Bone Regeneration , Ozan Karaman

Microencapsulation of a Connexin-43 Mimetic Peptide as a Novel Wound Healing Agent in an Ocular Injury Model , Keith Brian Moore

Gold Nanoparticles and Peptoids as Novel Inhibitors of Amyloid Beta Aggregation in Alzheimer's Disease , Kelly Ann Moore

Effect of Physiological Oxygen Levels On Osteogenic Differentiation of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells , Suchit Sahai

Investigation of START Domain Proteins in Human Luteinized Cells and COS-1 Cells , Bo Shi

Characterizing Hypoxia and Its Behavioral Effects In 3-Dimensional Cell Aggregates , Matthew Lorincz Skiles

The Effect of αCT-1 Peptide on Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Following Injury , Adam Clay Vandergriff

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Flow-Induced Forces Regulate the Development of Cardiac Valves , Stefanie Vawn Biechler

Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) Microscopy and Pacific Orange Dye Optimization For H9C2 Cox-1 Imaging Via Indirect Immunocytochemistry , John Wesley Merriman

Vasculogenic Scaffolds: How Cell-Cell and Cell-Matrix Interactions Regulate Vascular Differentiation and Morphogenesis , Samantha Jo Stinson

A Novel Quantitative Mechanical Test of Atherosclerotic Plaque Stability , Ying Wang

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Synthesis and Characterization of Thermally Responsive Nanocapsules Surface Decorated With Folic Acid For Targeted Drug Delivery and Cancer Destruction , Kyle Bradley Gilstrap

Study of Polyphenols and Naphthalimide Analogs As Inhibitors of Amyloid- β Protein Aggregation In Alzheimer'S Disease , Chen Suo

Development and Characterization of Micro/Nano Scale Biomaterials For Biomedical Applications , Wujie Zhang

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Study of Structural and Physical Properties of Small Molecule and Nanoparticle Inhibitors of Amyloid-B Protein Fibril Formation In Alzheimer'S Disease , Deborah Soto-Ortega

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

A Novel Technique for Fabricating Aligned Nanofibers by Using Solution Electrospinning , Ozan Karaman

Synthesis and Characterization of Injectable Star-shaped Poly(Lactide-co-Glycolide-co-Acrylate) Macromers , Jianping Wu

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines

Submissions

• Give us Feedback
• University Libraries

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

Edinburgh Research Archive

•   ERA Home
• Biological Sciences, School of

Biological Sciences thesis and dissertation collection

By Issue Date Authors Titles Subjects Publication Type Sponsor Supervisors

Search within this Collection:

This material is presented to ensure timely dissemination of scholarly and technical work. Copyright and all rights therein are retained by authors or by other copyright holders. All persons copying this information are expected to adhere to the terms and constraints invoked by each author's copyright. In most cases, these works may not be reposted without the explicit permission of the copyright holder.

Recent Submissions

Identification of mutants that affect mono-orientation in meiosis through a mutagenesis screen , investigation of rnai-dependent heterochromatin establishment in schizosaccharomyces pombe , investigating crispr-mediated gene editing and its relationship with dna repair in chlamydomonas reinhardtii , understanding the role of glucose-sensor hexokinase in seedling establishment in arabidopsis thaliana , metagenomic, metabolic and functional characterisation of polyextremophilic microbial consortia endogenous to acid mine drainage , understanding the genetic basis of ramularia disease resistance in barley , impact of nutrition and helminth infection on gut health and the microbiome using a lab-to-wild mouse mode , roles of nucleosome asymmetry and kat6b-mediated histone acetylation in the regulation of bivalent promoters , novel extremophilic metalloproteases for consumer product application , biosynthesis of methacrylate esters in saccharomyces cerevisiae , evolution of the legume flower: case studies in the early-branching papilionoid legumes (papilionoideae, leguminosae) , investigating the genetic architecture of complex traits in soay sheep , dgcr8-dependent control of antiviral immunity in human cells , evaluating assumptions & predicting impact in antimicrobial resistance research , optogenetic manipulation of cellular energetics in escherichia coli , genetic validation of the function of pfemp1 in plasmodium falciparum rosette formation , deciphering essential roles of camp signalling during malaria parasite transmission , elucidating the arabidopsis phytochrome a shade-signaling mechanism , specificity and mechanism of rna trafficking from mouse to bacteria in the gut , single-cell physiological response of escherichia coli to suppressive antibiotic combinations .

No notifications.

Dissertations on Biomedical Science

Biomedical Science focuses on how cells, organs and systems function in the human body and underpins much of modern medicine. Biomedical Science applies parts of natural and/or formal sciences to help develop advances in healthcare.

View All Dissertation Examples

Latest Biomedical Science Dissertations

Including full dissertations, proposals, individual dissertation chapters, and study guides for students working on their undergraduate or masters dissertation.

Enterohemhorrhagic Escherichia Coli O157:H7 Initial Adherence and Interactions with Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor

Dissertation Examples

In this study, we describe several factors involved with the initial adherence of E. coli O157:H7 in vitro....

Last modified: 25th Feb 2022

RIPK3 Blockade Attenuates Tubulointerstitial Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of Diabetic Nephropathy

In this study, we examined the role of RIPK3 in DKD induced renal fibrosis using a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mouse model....

The Effects of 3-ABA on Human THP-1 Cells Treated with Etoposide

This study will test the effects of 3-ABA and Etoposide onto the human monocytic THP-1 cell line, both individually and in combination....

Effects of Zearalenone (ZEA) and Mycotoxin Interactions on Animal and Human Health and Prevalence in the Food Supply

The aim in this review is to not only combine the effects of ZEA in animals and humans, but to also discuss the prevalence of ZEA around the world in food products, both for human and animal consumption....

In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Tea Tree Oil on Microorganisms in Association with Oral Infections

With the increase in the incidence of antibiotic resistance by bacterial dental biofilms, efforts were directed to nature and its elements for therapy and cure....

Investigation of Neurochemicals’ Role in Glioblastoma and Neural Stem Cells

Given the close similarities between GBM stem cells and neural stem cells (NSC), and their existence in the rich neurochemical milieu of brain, neurochemical signaling may profoundly impact tumor growth....

Last modified: 24th Feb 2022

Genetic Factors for Anorexia Nervosa

The overall aim of this systematic review is to investigate the extent genetic polymorphisms contribute towards development of Anorexia Nervosa....

Glutamine Supplementation in Athletic Performance, Body Composition and Immune Function

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of GLN supplement on athletic performance, body composition and immune function....

Slowing Osteoarthritis Progression in a Rat Model of Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis

This study aims to test the therapeutic efficacy of Drug N in mitigating progression of OA in rats with posttraumatic OA induced by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM)....

Experimental Investigation of MRR and SR in Electric Discharge Machine

In this study, an experiment is performed to analyse the effect of machining parameters viz. discharges current (Ip), pulse on time (Ton), voltage (v) over the responses of MRR and SR....

Messenger RNA Delivery for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Applications

In this review we describe existing methods of mRNA synthesis and modification, their conjugation and encapsulation with nanoparticles, and well as their delivery mechanisms from hydrogel scaffolds....

Pain Induced Synaptic Plasticity in the Amygdala

This thesis addressed the question of whether plasticity can outlast a stimulus and the time course of the plasticity. This plasticity was seen in the amygdala, an area important for associative learning and the affective component of pain....

Glutamate Transporter EAAT2 in the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Glutamate, also known as glutamic acid is the major amino acid in the human body and it is most abundantly present in the brain and muscles....

Functions and Applications of miRNA and miRNA Sponge Technology

This review outlines current understanding regarding the generation, natural functions and applications of this class of RNA....

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles in Cancer Treatment

This paper covers the techniques for the production of SLN, drug incorporation, loading capacity and drug release mechanisms....

Simulating Blood Flow in Vessels Affected by an Aneurysm

This report advises a computational technique for simulating the flow profiles of laminar blood flow for Newtonian and Non-Newtonian cases in a blood vessel that has been affected by an aneurysm....

Synergistic Study of Silver Nanoparticles and Antibiotics

This review aims provides insights on the researches done on synergistic study of silver nanoparticle and antibiotic....

Activation of Various Signalling Pathways in Response to Treating Mouse Macrophage Cells with Lipopolysaccharides (LPS)

Liposaccharides (LPS) are the major components of the outer membrane that present in almost all Gram-negative bacteria. They play a significant role when it comes to activation of signalling pathways in mouse macrophage cells....

Structural Insights for Drugs Developed for Phospholipase D Enzymes

The work herein highlights and summarizes some of the most promising PLD inhibitors recently developed and characterized through some elegant synthesis regimes and biochemical studies....

Last modified: 17th Feb 2022

Wnt Signalling Pathways in Skin Development and Epidermal Stem Cells

In this review, we focus on the cellular processes of skin development and homeostasis to point out the spatial and temporal interconnections of Wnt-dependent signalling pathways....

Last modified: 16th Feb 2022

Digestive Enzyme Therapy Used in Metabolic Pathologies

The present paper will look into specific digestive enzyme therapy used in metabolic pathologies particularly in neonates and infants, human rhDNase therapy for Cystic Fibrosis and its associated RTIs and Asparaginase....

Antioxidant Potential in Stevia Rebaudiana Callus

The first objective of present study was to evaluate the effects of PEG-induced drought stress on the leaves-derived callus of S. rebaudiana. The second aim of study was to understand if PBZ (a GA biosynthesis inhibitor) and GA treatments could reduce negative effects of PEG on Stevia calluses....

Interaction Between the Mucosal Vaccine Adjuvant CDG and Pulmonary DCs

Adjuvants significantly enhance vaccine efficacy, in part, by targeting, modulating and activating key functions of dendritic cells (DCs)....

Last modified: 15th Feb 2022

ImmunoPET Imaging of Human CA6

First in human study of a companion diagnostic immunoPET tracer for measuring human CA6 expression in cancer for antibody drug conjugate (ADC) therapy. Running title: ImmunoPET Imaging of...

Could Epigenetic Therapy Replace Current Treatment Methods for Acute Myeloid Leukaemia?

In this study, I will be looking at two primary chemotherapeutic agents and the use of allogenic haemopoietic stem cell transplant and I will look at the efficacy of three epigenetic therapeutic agents....

Last modified: 14th Feb 2022

Popular Tags

• Browse All Tags
• Biomedical Science
• Business Analysis
• Business Strategy
• Computer Science
• Construction
• Consumer Decisions
• Criminology
• Cultural Studies
• Cyber Security
• Electronics
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Environmental Studies
• Food And Nutrition
• Health And Social Care
• Human Resources
• Information Systems
• Information Technology
• International Business
• International Relations
• International Studies
• Mental Health
• Pharmacology
• Social Policy
• Sustainability
• Young People

Dissertation Writing Service

Dissertation Proposal Service

Topic with Titles Service

Samples of our work

Warning: The NCBI web site requires JavaScript to function. more...

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it's official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

• Publications
• Account settings
• Browse Titles

NCBI Bookshelf. A service of the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

National Research Council (US) Committee for Monitoring the Nation's Changing Needs for Biomedical, Behavioral, and Clinical Personnel. Advancing the Nation's Health Needs: NIH Research Training Programs. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2005.

Advancing the Nation's Health Needs: NIH Research Training Programs.

• Hardcopy Version at National Academies Press

2 Basic Biomedical Sciences Research

Basic biomedical research, which addresses mechanisms that underlie the formation and function of living organisms, ranging from the study of single molecules to complex integrated functions of humans, contributes profoundly to our knowledge of how disease, trauma, or genetic defects alter normal physiological and behavioral processes. Recent advances in molecular biology techniques and characterization of the human genome, as well as the genomes of an increasing number of model organisms, have provided basic biomedical researchers with the tools to elucidate molecular-, cellular-, and systems-level processes at an unprecedented depth and rate.

Thus basic biomedical research affects clinical research and vice versa. Biomedical researchers supply many of the new ideas that can be translated into potential therapies and subsequently tested in clinical studies, while clinical researchers may suggest novel mechanisms of disease that can then be tested in basic studies using animal models.

The tools also now exist to rapidly apply insights gained from model organisms to human health and disease. For example, gene mutations known to contribute to human disease can be investigated in model organisms, whose underlying characteristics lend them to rapid assessment. Resulting treatment strategies can then be tested in mammalian species prior to the design of human clinical trials.

These and other mutually supportive systems suggest that such interactions between basic biomedical and clinical researchers not only will continue but will grow as the two domains keep expanding. But the two corresponding workforces will likely remain, for the most part, distinct.

Similarly, there is a symbiosis between basic biomedical and behavioral and social sciences research (covered in Chapter 3 ) and an obvious overlap at the interface of neuroscience, physiological psychology, and behavior. The boundary between these areas is likely to remain indistinct as genetic and environmental influences that affect brain formation and function are better understood. Consequently, such investigations will impact the study of higher cognitive functions, motivation, and other areas traditionally studied by behavioral and social scientists.

Basic biomedical research will therefore undoubtedly continue to play a central role in the discovery of novel mechanisms underlying human disease and in the elucidation of those suggested by clinical studies. As an example, although a number of genes that contribute to disorders such as Huntington's, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease have been identified, the development of successful therapies will require an understanding of the role that the proteins encoded by these genes play in normal cellular processes. Similarly, realizing the potential of stem cell–based therapies for a number of disorders will require characterization of the signals that cause stem cells to differentiate into specific cell types. Thus a workforce trained in basic biomedical research will be needed to apply current knowledge and that gained in the future toward the improvement of human health. Since such research will be carried out not only in academic institutions but increasingly in industry as well, the workforce must be sufficient to supply basic biomedical researchers for large pharmaceutical companies as well as smaller biotech and bioengineering firms, thereby contributing to the economy as well as human health.

The role of the independent investigator in academe, industry, and government is crucial to this research enterprise. They provide the ideas that expand knowledge and the research that leads to discovery. The doubling of the NIH budget has increased the number of research grants and the number of investigators but not at a rate commensurate to the budget increases. Grants have become bigger and senior investigators have received more of them. While this trend has not decreased the nation's research capacity, there may be things that will affect the future pool of independent researchers, such as a sufficient number of academic faculty that can apply for research grants, an industrial workforce that is more application oriented, and most important, a decline in doctorates from U.S. institutions.

• BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH WORKFORCE

The research workforce for the biomedical sciences is broad and diverse. It is primarily composed of individuals who hold Ph.D.s, though it also includes individuals with broader educational backgrounds, such as those who have earned their M.D.s from the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) or other dual-degree programs. In addition, some individuals with M.D.s but without Ph.D.s have acquired the necessary training to do basic biomedical research. But although the analysis in this report should ideally be based on the entire workforce just defined, there are no comprehensive databases that identify the research activities of M.D.s. Therefore much of the analysis will be restricted to holders of a Ph.D. in one of the fields listed in Appendix C , with the assumption that an individual's area of research is related to his or her degree field. A separate section in this chapter is devoted to M.D.s doing biomedical research, and an analysis of the clinical research M.D. workforce is given in Chapter 4 .

It should also be noted that the discussion in this chapter does not include individuals with doctorates in other professions, such as dentistry and nursing even if they hold a Ph.D. in addition to their professional degrees. However, there are important workforce issues in these two fields, and they are addressed separately in Chapters 5 and 6 of this report.

• EDUCATIONAL PROGRESSION

The major sources of Ph.D. researchers in the biomedical sciences are the U.S. research universities, but a substantial number also come from foreign institutions. These scientists, whether native or foreign born, enter the U.S. biomedical research workforce either directly into permanent assignments or via postdoctoral positions.

For most doctorates in the biomedical sciences, interest in the field begins at an early age, in high school or even grade school. In fact, almost all high school graduates (93 percent) in the class of 1998 took a biology course—a rate much greater than other science fields, for which the percentages are below 60 percent. 1 Even in the early 1980s, over 75 percent of high school graduates had taken biology, compared to about 30 percent for chemistry, which had the next-highest enrollment. This interest in biology continues into college, with 7.3 percent of the 2000 freshman science and engineering (S&E) population having declared a major in biology. This was an increase from about 6 percent of freshman majors in the early 1980s but less than the high of about 9.5 percent in the mid-1990s. Overall, the number of freshman biology majors increased from about 50,000 in the early 1980s to over 73,000 in 2000. 2 In terms of actual bachelor's degrees awarded in the biological sciences, there was a decrease from about 47,000 in 1980 to 37,000 in 1989 and then a relatively sharp rise to over 67,000 in 1998. This was followed by a slight decline to about 65,000 in 2000.

There is attrition, however, in the transition from undergraduate to graduate school. In the 1980s and 1990s only about 11,000 first-year students were enrolled at any one time in graduate school biology programs. Percentage-wise, this loss of students is greater than in other S&E fields but is understandable: many undergraduates obtain a bachelor's degree in biology as a precursor to medical school and have no intention of graduate study in biology per se. The total graduate enrollment in biomedical sciences at Ph.D.-granting institutions grew in the early 1990s and was steady at a little under 50,000 during the latter part of the decade. However, there was some growth in 2001, of about 4 percent over the 2000 level, and the growth from 2000 to 2002 was about 10 percent (see Figure 2-1 ), driven in large part by an 18.9 percent increase of temporary residents. The overall growth may not continue, however, as the first-year enrollment for this group slowed from 8.9 percent in 2001 to 3.0 percent in 2002.

First-year and total graduate enrollment in the biomedical sciences at Ph.D.-granting institutions, 1980–2002. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Graduate Students and Postdoctorates in Science and Engineering.

The tendency for graduate students to receive a doctorate in a field similar to that of their baccalaureate degree is not as strong in the biomedical sciences as it is in other fields, where it is about 85 percent. From 1993 to 2002, some 68.4 percent of the doctorates in biomedical programs received their bachelor's degree in the same field and another 8.4 percent received bachelor's degrees in chemistry. 3 This relative tendency to shift fields should not be viewed negatively, however, as doctoral students with exposure to other disciplines at the undergraduate level could provide the opportunity for greater interdisciplinary training and research.

• EARLY CAREER PROGRESSION IN THE BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

Advances in biomedical research and health care delivery, together with a strong economy in the 1990s and increased R&D support, drove the growth of academic programs. Total academic R&D expenditures in the biological sciences, in 2001 dollars, began to rise dramatically in the early 1980s. They started from a base of about $3 billion and reached a plateau of almost $5 billion in the mid-1990s. As seen in Figure 2-2 , this increase of about $2 billion was virtually repeated in the much shorter period from the late 1990s to 2002, as the NIH budget doubled. Although the increases in R&D support during the earlier period were reflected in the increased graduate enrollments of the 1980s and mid-1990s (seen in Figure 2-1 ), the enrollments since then have not kept pace with fast-growing R&D expenditures. This disconnect between research funding and enrollment in the late 1990s is difficult to explain but could in part be due to the unsettled career prospects in the biomedical sciences. In a report 4 from the American Society for Cell Biology, the authors examined the data on enrollment and surveyed both undergraduate and graduate students and postdoctorates on their career goals and found that students were aware of and concerned about the problem young people were having in establishing an independent research career. This ASCB report, as well as in the National Research Council report, Trends in the Early Careers of Life Scientists, 5 express concern for the future of biomedical research, if the best young people pursue different career paths. This slowdown in graduate enrollment in the late 1990s might have also contributed to the expansion of the postdoctoral and non-tenure-track faculty pool of researchers, since there was an increasing need for research personnel.

Academic research and development expenditures in the biological sciences. (All dollars are in thousands.) SOURCE: National Science Foundation R&D Expenditures at Universities and Colleges, 1973–2002. Adjusted to 2002 dollars by the Biomedical (more...)

The increase in funding and enrollments in the early 1990s did lead to an increase in doctoral degrees awarded in the late 1990s, as seen in Figure 2-3 . Since the 1970s, Ph.D.s awarded by U.S. institutions in the biomedical sciences increased from roughly 3,000 then to 5,366 in 2002. Most of the increase occurred in the mid-1990s and has since remained fairly constant. The year with the largest number of doctorates was 2000, when 5,532 degrees were awarded. The number of degrees in 2000 may be an anomaly, since the number in 2001 (5,397 Ph.D.), 2002 (5,375 Ph.D.), and 2003 (5,412 Ph.D.) are more in line with the number in the late 1990s (see Appendix Table E-1 ).

Number of doctorates in the biomedical sciences, 1970–2003. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Earned Doctorates, 2001.

Increases in doctorates were seen among women, temporary residents, and underrepresented minorities. Notably, since 1986 much of the increase in the number of doctorates has come from increased participation by women. In 1970 only 16 percent of doctorates were awarded to women; by 2003 the percentage had grown to 45.2. Temporary residents earned about 10 percent of the doctorates in 1970, and although this had increased to almost one-quarter in the early 2000s, it was still lower than the percentage awarded in many other fields in the physical sciences and engineering. Participation by underrepresented minorities in 2003 stood at 9.4 percent—as in many other S&E fields, substantially below their representation in the general population.

The percentage of doctorates with definite postdoctoral study plans increased from about 50 percent in the early 1970s to a high of 79 percent in 1995. It then declined to 71 percent in 2002 but increased to 75 percent in 2003. The changes in doctorates electing postdoctoral study are reflected in those choosing employment after they received their degrees (from 20 percent in 1995 to 28 percent in 2002 and 25 percent in 2003). It is difficult to find reasons for these changes in career plans. Prior to 2003 it may be the result of more diverse and attractive employment opportunities generated by recent advances in the applied biological sciences, especially in industry, or a conscious choice not to pursue an academic research career, where postdoctoral training is required since an academic position may not be available down the road. The increase in postdoctoral appointments in 2003 and the decline in employment might be due to poor economic conditions in the early part of this decade. Whether these changes will impact the quality of the biomedical workforce and its research should be monitored.

Time to degree, age at receipt of degree, and the long training period prior to reaching R01 research status have been cited as critical issues in the career progression of biomedical researchers. 6 Graduate students are taking longer and longer periods of time to earn their Ph.Ds. The median registered time in a graduate degree program gradually increased from 5.4 years in 1970 to 6.7 years in 2003, and the median age of a newly minted degree holder in the biomedical sciences grew during the same period—from 28.9 in 1970 to 30.6 in 2003 (see Appendix E ). It should be noted that this time to degree is shorter than those of such fields as physics, computer science, and the earth sciences. Only chemistry, mathematics, and engineering have a lower median age at time of degree. While shortening the time in graduate school would reduce the age at which doctorates could become independent investigators, it may not significantly affect their career paths since postdoctoral training is required of almost all researchers in the biomedical sciences, and the time spent in these positions seems to be lengthening.

With the growth of research funding and productivity in the biomedical sciences, the postdoctoral appointment has become a normal part of research training. From the 1980s to the late 1990s, the number of postdoctoral appointments doubled for doctorates from U.S. educational institutions (see Figure 2-4 ). The rapid increase in the postdoctoral pool from 1993 to 1999 in particular appears to be the result of longer training periods for individuals and not the result of an increase in the number of individuals being trained since Table E-1 shows a decline in the number of new doctorates planning postdoctoral study and the number of doctorates has remained fairly constant over recent years.

Postdoctoral appointments in the biomedical sciences by sector, 1973–2001. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Doctorate Recipients.

The lengthening of postdoctoral training is documented by data collected in 1995 on the employment history of doctorates. 7 Of the Ph.D.s who pursued postdoctoral study after graduating in the early 1970s, about 35 percent spent less than two years and about 65 percent spent more than 2 years in a postdoctoral appointment. By contrast, of Ph.D.s who received their degrees in the late 1980s and completed postdoctorates in the 1990s, 80 percent spent more than two years and 20 percent spent less than 2 years in such appointments. More indicative of the change in postdoctoral training was the increase in the proportion that spent more than 4 years in a position, from about 20 percent to nearly 40 percent.

In 2001 the number of postdoctoral appointments actually declined across all employment sectors. This decline might be the result of lower interest by new doctorates in postdoctoral study and an academic career but is probably a response to the highlighting of issues related to postdoctoral appointments, such as the long periods of training with lack of employment benefits, the general perception that the positions are more like low-paying jobs than training experiences, and the poor prospects of a follow-up position as an independent investigator. Not only is interest in postdoctoral positions declining, there appears to be more rapid movement out of them by present incumbents. (These phenomena are more fully explored in Chapter 9 , Career Progression.)

The above discussion applies only to U.S. doctorates. There are also a large number of individuals with Ph.D.s from foreign institutions being trained in postdoctoral positions in U.S. educational institutions and other employment sectors. Data from another source are available for postdoctorates from this population at academic institutions, 8 but there is no source for data in the industrial, governmental, and nonprofit sectors other than an estimate that about half of the 4,000 intramural postdoctoral appointments at NIH are held by temporary residents. Almost all of these temporary residents have foreign doctorates. The number of temporary residents in academic institutions steadily increased through the 1980s and 1990s until 2002 when the number reached 10,000 (see Figure 2-5 ). The data also show that the rate at which temporary residents took postdoctoral positions slowed in 2002. The decline in academic appointments in 2001 for U.S. citizens and permanent residents population that was described above is also seen in this data, but that might be temporary since there was an increase in 2002. The reasons for this change may be twofold: a tighter employment market for citizens and permanent residents and immigration restrictions. However, it is still important to recognize that foreign-educated researchers hold about two-thirds of the postdoctoral positions in academic institutions. If national security policies were to limit the flow of foreign scientists into the United States, this could adversely affect the research enterprise in the biomedical sciences.

Postdoctoral appointments in academic institutions in the biomedical sciences. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Graduate Students and Postdoctorates in Science and Engineering.

• A PORTRAIT OF THE WORKFORCE

The traditional career progression for biomedical scientists after graduate school includes a postdoctoral position followed by an academic appointment, either a tenure-track or nonpermanent appointment that is often on “soft” research money. As shown in Figure 2-6 , the total population of academic biomedical sciences researchers, excluding postdoctoral positions, grew at an average annual rate of 3.1 percent from 1975 to 1989. 9

Academic positions for doctorates in the biomedical sciences, 1975–2001. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Doctorate Recipients.

Since 1995, growth slowed to about 2.5 percent, with almost all of the growth in the non-tenure-track area. From 1999 to 2001 there was actually a decline in the number of non-tenure-track positions (by a few hundred). The fastest-growing employment category since the early 1980s has been “Other Academic Appointments,” which is currently increasing at about 4.9 percent annually (see Appendix E-2 ). These jobs are essentially holding positions, filled by young researchers, coming from postdoctoral experiences, who would like to join an academic faculty on a tenure track and are willing to wait. In effect, they are gambling because institutions are restricting the number of faculty appointments in order to reduce the possible long-term commitments that come with such positions. From 1993 to 2001, the number of tenure-track appointments increased by only 13.8 percent, while those for non-tenure-track faculty and other academic appointments increased by 45.1 percent and 38.9 percent, respectively.

The longer time to independent research status is also seen by looking at the age distributions of tenure-track faculty over the past two decades (see Figure 2-7 ). By comparing age cohorts in 1985 and 2001, it is observed that doctorates entered tenure-track positions at a later age in 2001.

Age distribution of biomedical tenured and tenure-track faculty, 1985, 1993, and 2001. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Doctorate Recipients.

For example, while about 1,000 doctorates in the 33 to 34 age cohort were in faculty positions in 1985, only about half that number were similarly employed in 2001, even though the number of doctorates for that cohort was greater in the late 1990s than in the early 1980s. The age cohort data also show that the academic workforce is aging, with about 20 percent of the 2001 academic workforce over the age of 58. The constraints of a rather young biomedical academic workforce and the conservative attitudes of institutions to not expand their faculties in the tight economic times of the early 1990s may have slowed the progression of young researchers into research positions. However, this may change in the next 8 to 10 years as more faculty members retire.

Meanwhile, over 40 percent of the biomedical sciences workforce is employed in nonacademic institutions (see Figure 2-8 ). Researchers' employment in industry, the largest of these other sectors, has been growing at a 15 percent rate over the past 20 years. There was a lull in employment in the early 1990s, but growth since the mid-1990s has been strong. The increases in industrial employment may be due to the unavailability of faculty positions, but is more likely fueled by the R&D growth in pharmaceutical and other medical industries from $9.3 billion in 1992 to $24.6 in 2001 (constant 2001 dollars). 10 In 1992 almost all of this funding was from nonfederal sources, but in 2001 only 42 percent was from those sources. The result of this increase in federal funding has resulted in an increase in R&D employment, but not as large as would be expected. It is difficult to estimate the increase in biomedical doctorates in this industrial sector since they are drawn from many fields and are at different degree levels, but the total full-time equivalent R&D scientists and engineers increased 6.2 percent from 38,700 in 1992 to 41,100 in 2001. 11 However, there may be a trend toward increased employment in this sector, since a growing fraction of new doctorates are planning industrial employment (see Table E-1 ). The downturn in 2003 may be an anomaly due to the economy and not the strength of the medical industry, but data from a longer time period will be needed before definite trends in industrial employment can be determined. The government and nonprofit sectors have been fairly stable in their use of biomedical scientists, with about 8 and 4 percent growth rates, respectively, in recent years.

Employment of biomedical scientists by sector, 1973–2001. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Doctorate Recipients.

The number of underrepresented minorities in the basic biomedical sciences workforce increased from 1,066 in 1975 to 5,345 in 2001 and now accounts for 5.3 percent of the research employment in the field. Even though the annual average rate of growth for minorities in the workforce has been 15 percent over the past 10 years—more than twice the growth rate of the total workforce (6.5 percent)—the overall representation of minorities in biomedical research is still a small percentage of the overall workforce (see Appendix E-2 ). Their representation is also important from the scientific perspective, since researchers from minority groups may be better able and willing to address minority health care issues.

• PHYSICIAN-RESEARCHERS

Throughout this report Ph.D.s are considered to be researchers or potential researchers, but no such assumption is made of M.D.s because they could be practitioners. The above discussion, in particular, applies only to Ph.D.s in the fields listed in Appendix C , but it does not take into consideration physicians who are doing basic biomedical research. It is difficult to get a complete picture of this workforce because there is no database that tracks M.D.s involved in such activity, but a partial picture can be obtained from NIH files on R01 awards.

In 2001, R01 grants were awarded to 4,383 M.D.s (and to 17,505 Ph.D.s). 12 The number of R01-supported M.D. researchers has been increasing over the years (see Table 2-1 ) but has remained at about 20 percent. This means that the size of the biomedical workforce could be as much as one-fifth larger than indicated above. In fact, since NIH began to classify clinical research awards in 1996, it has become evident that both M.D.s and M.D./Ph.D.s supported by the agency are more likely to conduct nonclinical—that is, biomedical—than clinical research. Because many physician-investigators approach nonclinical research with the goal of understanding the mechanisms underlying a particular disease or disorder, their findings are likely to ultimately contribute to improvements in human health.

Number of M.D.s and Ph.D.s with Grant Support from NIH .

Some data are available from the American Medical Association on the national supply of physicians potentially in research. In 2002 there were 15,316 medical school faculty members in basic science departments and 82,623 in clinical departments. Of those in basic science, 2,255 had M.D. degrees, 11,471 had Ph.D.s, and 1,128 had combined M.D./ Ph.D. degrees. To identify the M.D.s in basic science departments who were actually doing research, the Association of American Medical Colleges Faculty Roster was linked to NIH records; it found that 1,261 M.D.s had been supported as principal investigators (PIs) on an R01 NIH grant at some point. This number is clearly an undercount of the M.D. research population, however, given that there are forms of NIH research support other than PI status and non-NIH organizations also support biomedical research.

• THE NATIONAL RESEARCH SERVICE AWARD PROGRAM AND BIOMEDICAL TRAINING SUPPORT

The National Research Service Award Program

In 1975, when the National Research Service Award (NRSA) program began, 23,968 graduate students in the basic biomedical sciences received some form of financial assistance for their studies, and about 8,000 supported their own education through loans, savings, or family funds. 13 The number of fellowships and traineeships, whether institutional or from external sources, was about 8,500 in 1975 and remained at about that level into the early 1990s, increasing only recently to 12,186 in 2002 (see Figure 2-9 ).

Mechanisms of support for full-time graduate students in the biomedical sciences, 1979–2002. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Graduate Students and Postdoctorates in Science and Engineering.

In the 1970s the majority of graduate student support came from these fellowships, traineeships, and institutional teaching assistantships. The picture began to change in the early 1980s as the prevalence of research grants grew. By 2002 it represented almost 50 percent of the support for graduate study in the biomedical sciences, and NIH's funding of this mechanism grew as well. In the early 1980s, NIH research grants formed about 40 percent of the total, and by the early 1990s this fraction grew to 64 percent and has remained at about this level through 2002 (see Figure 2-10 ). Even during the years when the NIH budget doubled, there was not a shift in this balance. In fact, from 1997 to 2002 both research grant and trainee/fellowship support from NIH increased by 14 percent. NIH in its response to the 2000 assessment of the NRSA program 14 has stated that research grants and trainee/fellowship awards are not used for the control of graduate support and that it would be inappropriate to try to do so.

FIGURE 2-10

Graduate support for NIH, 1979–2002. SOURCE: National Science Foundation Survey of Graduate Students and Postdoctorates in Science and Engineering.

The NRSA program now comprises the major part of NIH's fellowship and traineeship support. It began small in 1975—with 1,046 traineeships and 26 fellowships—but quickly expanded. By 1980 the number was nearly 5,000 for the traineeships; it remained at that level until 2001, though it dropped to a little over 4,000 in 2002 (see Table 2-2 ). (The drop in 2002 traineeships was probably an institutional reporting issue. Given that the total number of awards by NIH under the T32 15 mechanisms was about the same as in 2001, it is unlikely that the awards in the biomedical sciences would fall below the 2000 or 2001 levels.)

NRSA Predoctoral Trainee and Fellowship Support in the Basic Biomedical Sciences .

Information on funding patterns for postdoctorates in the basic biomedical sciences is not as complete as that for graduate students since academic institutions are the only sources of data. As has been the case for graduate student support, the portion of federal funds devoted to postdoctoral training grants and fellowships has diminished since the 1970s. In 1995, 1,966 (or 45.3 percent) of the 4,343 federally funded university-based postdoctorates received their training on a fellowship or traineeship. By 2002 the number had increased to 2,670 but was still only 20.3 percent of the total federal funding. The remaining 79.7 percent (or 10,514) in 2002 were supported by federal research grants. Meanwhile, the number of postdoctoral positions, funded by nonfederal institutional sources, was fairly constant at about 25 percent and grew from 1,325 in 1975 to 4,628 in 2002.

The picture for NRSA support at the postdoctoral level for the period following introduction of the NRSA program resembled that of the graduate level. However, in 2002 there was a sharp decrease in the number of postdoctoral traineeships; but, as in the case for predoctoral trainees, this may be an institutional reporting issue (see Table 2-3 ). Since the decline from 2001 to 2002 is nearly 50 percent and the decline for predoctoral trainees was only 20 percent, there may be a real decline at the postdoctoral level. The reason for this is unclear, though factors may include the limited number of individuals who can be supported under the increased stipend levels and the general decline in the number of postdoctoral research trainees eligible for NRSA support.

NRSA Postdoctoral Trainee and Fellowship Support in the Basic Biomedical Sciences .

The shift in the pattern of federal research training support, at both the graduate and postdoctoral levels, can be traced to a number of related trends. Over the past 25 years, the number of research grants awarded by the NIH and other agencies of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has more than doubled. 16 PIs have come to depend on graduate students and postdoctorates to carry out much of their day-to-day research work, and, as a result, the number of universities awarding Ph.D.s in the basic biomedical sciences, as well as the quantity of Ph.D.s awarded by existing programs, has grown.

Furthermore, federal funding policies have inadvertently provided universities with an incentive to appoint students and postdoctorates to research assistantships instead of training grants or fellowships. An example given in the eleventh NRSA study 17 shows that in 1999 the NIH provided almost $9,000 more to research assistants and their institutions (largely in the form of indirect cost payments to universities) than to NRSA trainees or fellows. Because the indirect cost rate for institutional training grants is generally about 7 percent compared to the 60 to 70 percent rate on research grants, it is financially advantageous for an institution to have as many research grants as possible for the support of graduate students. However, current policies at NIH have raised the NRSA predoctoral stipend levels to $19,968 and starting postdoctoral levels to $34,200. These increases might force stipends on research grants to similar levels and reduce the number of students who can be supported on research grants.

As described earlier, the number of students and postdoctorates provided with research training through NRSA training grants and fellowships has been deliberately limited over much of the past 25 years, as a control on the number of researchers entering the workforce. No similar federal effort has been undertaken thus far to ensure an adequate supply of technically prepared support staff in research, nor is there a system for regulating the number of research assistantships. As Massy and Goldman concluded in their 1995 analysis of science and engineering Ph.D. production, the size of doctoral programs is driven largely by departmental needs for research and teaching assistants rather than by the labor market for Ph.D.s. 18

In any case, NRSA training grants to institutions are highly prized and competitively sought. They confer prestige and add stability to graduate programs as they are usually for five years and allow for planning into the future. On the other hand, since the legislation that established the NRSA program allows only U.S. citizens and permanent residents to be trained through these grants and fellowships, the growing number of graduate students with temporary-resident status must be supported by other mechanisms.

Another factor in the shifting pattern of federal research training support is the type of education the students receive. Since the beginning of the NRSA program, NIH has required predoctoral training grants in the basic biomedical sciences to be “multidisciplinary” in order to expose students to a range of biomedical fields and even to other branches of science. Given that research collaborations between a wide variety of scientists have been producing significant advances, this requirement is even more important. Although the level of multidisciplinary training varies from program to program, students in training grant programs with this as part of their curriculum may better be ensured of such interdisciplinary training than those on a research assistantship. The committee considers multidisciplinary training in the biomedical sciences to be very valuable and of increasing importance. (A full discussion of these issues is presented in Chapter 8 , Emerging Fields and Interdisciplinary Studies.)

Although research grants provide an important base for training, data suggest that NRSA training grant participants complete training faster and go on to more productive research careers than do non-NRSA-supported students at their institution or doctorates from universities without NRSA training programs. This is supported by an assessment, completed in 1984, in which NRSA participants were found to complete their doctoral degrees faster and were more likely to go on to NIH-supported postdoctoral training than graduate students with other forms of support. 19 They also received a higher percentage of NIH research grants, authored more articles, and were cited more frequently by their peers.

Comparable outcomes were seen in a more recent study conducted by NIH. 20 Ph.D.s in the basic biomedical sciences who received NRSA support for at least one academic year spent less time in graduate school. About 57 percent of NRSA trainees and fellows received their doctorates by age 30, while only 39 percent of their classmates and 32 percent of graduates from departments without NRSA support similarly reached that milestone.

The study also showed that NRSA trainees and fellows were more likely to move into faculty or other research positions. Nearly 40 percent of the NRSA program participants held faculty appointments at institutions ranking in the top 100 in NIH funding, as opposed to 24 and 16 percent, respectively, for non-NRSA graduates from the same institution and graduates from non-NRSA institutions. Similarly, NRSA trainees and fellows were more likely to be successful in competing for grants and had better publication records than either of the other groups.

The NRSA program is essential to training in the biomedical sciences not only for these and other direct reasons; there are also its indirect benefits, such as establishing high standards for the entire graduate program and creating a generally improved environment for all students. Also, when students are supported by a combination of NRSA and research grant support, the NRSA funding is significantly leveraged.

The Medical Scientist Training Program

The MSTP was established at NIH in 1964 by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) to support education leading to the M.D./Ph.D degree. By combining graduate training in the biomedical sciences with clinical training offered through medical schools, the program was designed to produce investigators who could better bridge the gap between basic science and clinical research. Since its inception, the Ph.D. portion of the training has been expanded to include the physical sciences, computer science, behavioral and social sciences, economics, epidemiology, public health, bioengineering, biostatistics, and bioethics, though almost all trainees receive a Ph.D. in a biomedical field.

When the MSTP began, it had only three programs, but it has since grown—in 2003 it had 41 programs involving 45 degree-granting institutions, with a total of 925 full-time training slots. This number is slightly down from the 933 slots in 2002. In addition, about 75 medical schools that do not have MSTP grants nevertheless offer opportunities for M.D./Ph.D. studies. The number of new students supported each year by MSTP funds varies from 2 or 3 at many institutions to 10 to 12 at a few exceptional ones, such as Duke University and the University of California, San Francisco. Some 170 new students nationwide are added to the program each year, with selection being highly competitive. The program provides 6 years of support for both phases of training, and institutions usually continue the awards for any additional years needed to complete the degrees. Support includes a tuition allowance, a stipend that is usually supplemented by the institution, and modest funds for travel, equipment, and supplies.

While the funds from NIH are sufficient to support only a few students in any one year of their training, institutions have been able to parlay the NIH funds by judiciously using institutional or research grant funds to support more students. A typical scenario is to support a student on MSTP funds during the first two years of medical training and again in the sixth or seventh years, when he or she returns to complete the medical degree. But during their Ph.D. studies, MSTP students are in a position to receive research grant support just like any other Ph.D. student. For example, one institution uses MSTP funds to support only 10 students during their first year and 2 during their second year in medical school, but there are 60 students in the MSTP program, with the remaining 48 receiving institutional or research grant support. This combination of funding results in the awarding of about 350 MSTP M.D./Ph.D. graduates each year. In the eyes of NIH, any student who receives MSTP funds and is supported for his or her entire course of study is considered a product of the program.

These graduates usually move on to postdoctoral, intern, and residency appointments and after completing their training tend to find academic research positions relatively easily. Another measure of the program's success is seen at the other end of the cycle—the competition among students for entry into the program. Some institutions, such as Johns Hopkins University, receive over 500 applications for the 10 or 12 available positions. Many of these students are highly qualified, and they apply for many programs simultaneously. Institutions easily fill their MSTP class, but some institutions with smaller and less well recognized programs have only a 30 percent acceptance rate. Occasionally these institutions lose students to other programs and begin the year with unfilled MSTP slots. Although not all applicants find MSTP positions, many end up pursuing a joint dual-degree program at an MSTP institution with partial or sometimes full support from non-MSTP funds. They follow the same track as the MSTP students and are indistinguishable from them.

Funding of the program is an issue at almost all MSTP institutions. While institutions are creative in the use of MSTP funds, they are unable to support many highly qualified students who have an interest in research but opt instead to attend just medical school and pursue a professional career. At a time when there is a need for more researchers with a medical background, it would be advantageous to have more M.D.s who are generally debt free and able to pursue research that requires the unique combination of biomedical and clinical training.

In addition to the advantages to biomedical and clinical research, MSTP graduates appear to have more productive research careers. In 1998 the NIGMS published a study of past recipients of MSTP support. 21 This study used résumé data of MSTP graduates with both an M.D. and a Ph.D. to compare their careers to four other groups of doctorates: MSTP-supported students who received only an M.D., Ph.D. recipients at MSTP institutions supported by NIH training grants, non-MSTP dual-degree graduates from an MSTP institution, and non-MSTP dual-degree graduates from a non-MSTP institution. The individuals in the study were divided into four 5-year cohorts from 1970 to 1995 to allow for changes over time in the educational characteristics and research environment. The cohorts and doctoral grouping were also compared on existing data from NIH files. The training and career paths of the MSTP graduates and the comparison groups were assessed from different perspectives, including time to degree, postdoctoral training, employment history, and research support and publication outcomes. By almost all measures, the MSTP-trained graduates fared better than the other groups. For example, they entered graduate training more quickly and took less time to complete the two degrees. Only the Ph.D. group applied for NIH postdoctoral fellowships at a higher rate, but the MSTP success rate was about the same as for the Ph.D. group. Depending on the cohort, between 60 and 70 percent of the MSTP graduates had a clinical fellowship and about 50 percent had both a clinical fellowship and postdoctoral training.

In terms of research activity, the NIH data showed that the MSTP graduates applied for research grant support from NIH at a greater rate and they were more successful in receiving support. The research productivity of the MSTP graduates across each of the cohorts as measured by published articles from the résumé data was about the same as that for the Ph.D. group and only slightly higher than the non-MSTP graduates from MSTP institutions. However, an examination of publications over the period from 1993 to 1995 showed that the earlier cohorts were more likely to be currently active than the Ph.D. graduates by publishing twice as many articles. The 1976–1980 non-MSTP cohorts, from MSTP institutions, also continued to be almost as active in publishing as the MSTP graduates.

The résumé analysis also provided insight into the professional and research activities of the different groups. About 83 percent of MSTP graduates in the study who were employed in 1995 had one or more academic appointments. This was higher than the M.D.- and Ph.D.-only groups and somewhat higher than the non-MSTP M.D./Ph.D.s group. Most of the dual-degree graduates in either group were in clinical departments and probably indicates some responsibility with regard to patient-oriented care. To better assess the type of research conducted by the different groups, the study classified the publications reported on the résumés into basic, clinical, and mixed type. Even though many of the dual-degree graduates are in clinical departments, they are still more likely to publish in basic journals, and this tendency is stronger in later cohorts.

The conclusions drawn from this analysis are that MSTP graduates appear to have been highly successful in establishing research careers, and their recent publication records suggest that members of all cohorts continue to be productive researchers. However, MSTP graduates appear most similar to non-MSTP M.D./Ph.D.s from the same institution; both groups are likely to be employed in academia with appointments in clinical or dual clinical and basic science departments, and both have similar publication patterns. This is not surprising, since non-MSTP-supported students at MSTP institutions follow the same program as their MSTP counterparts, complete the same degree requirements, and benefit from the MSTP-sponsored training efforts at those institutions.

• RESEARCH LABOR FORCE PROJECTIONS

The biomedical workforce with degrees from U.S. universities was estimated to be 100,262 in 2001. This included individuals in postdoctoral positions but did not count the 4,935 doctorates with degrees in biomedical fields who were unemployed or the 8,091 in positions not considered related to biomedical research (see Table 2-4 ). These three groups brought the potential workforce of U.S. doctorates to 113,288 (the only doctorates excluded were those who had retired). Table 2-4 also shows the change in this workforce over the past decade.

Potential Workforce in the Biomedical Sciences by Employment Status, 1991–2001 .

Note that in 2001 almost 80 percent of the potential workforce was employed in S&E and unemployment was less than 1 percent. Even with the inclusion of those unemployed and not seeking employment, only about 4.5 percent were unemployed.

The above figures represent only part of the total potential workforce, however, because foreign-trained doctorates also are employed in this country (and a few U.S. doctorates leave the country). Estimating this foreign component is difficult, given that no database describes the demographics of this group. Some data sources with information on foreign-trained doctorates exist, but they provide only a partial picture. 22 Based on these sources, it is estimated that about 15,500 such individuals are involved in biomedical research in the United States, though the size of this contingent could be as high as 25,000.

How the overall size of the S&E workforce might change over the next 10 years will be influenced by several factors: the number of doctorates who graduate each year, the unemployment levels in the field, the number of foreign-trained doctorates, and retirement rates. These factors can be accounted for by taking a multistate life-table approach, which models the workforce to estimate the numbers of researchers who enter and exit the workforce at various stages. It is also important to know the age of the workforce and the age at which individuals enter it, as this information determines retirement rates. What follows in this section is a short summary of the findings from this model's analysis, with full details available in Appendix D (Demographic Projections of the Research Workforce).

The largest and most relevant source of new researchers is the set of graduates from U.S. doctoral programs. The size of this group grew significantly in the 1990s but has leveled off or declined in recent years. Making projections of the numbers of future graduates, therefore, depends on which years are used to develop the model (a quadratic regression). Rather than choose just one scenario, three different scenarios for Ph.D. growth were developed. The first was a regression from 1985 to obtain a high estimate; the second was a low estimate, based on the assumption of constant growth from the 2001 level; and the third was the average of the two to represent “moderate” growth. For the high estimate the annual number of Ph.D.s grows from 5,386 in 2001 to 7,433 in 2011, and the average of this number and the one resulting from no growth yields 6,441 in 2011 (see 10-year totals in Table 2-5 ).

Projected Changes in U.S. and Foreign Doctorates Entering the Biomedical Workforce Between 2001 and 2011 .

A similar approach—with low, median, and high scenarios—was used for the inflow of foreign doctorates. However, because it is difficult to estimate the number of individuals in the current workforce with a foreign doctorate, the scenarios are based on estimates of the growth rate in the 1990s and the resulting population in 2001. Based on these estimates, it is possible to project the potential workforce in the biomedical sciences between 2001 and 2011. Using estimates of unemployment and the flow of doctorates in and out of the S&E workforce, the employed biomedical researcher population can also be estimated. Table 2-6 shows the results of the multistate life-table analysis under the medium scenario. These totals exhibit an annual growth rate in the biomedical workforce of 2 to 2.5 percent, which is comparable to the projected annual growth rate of the overall labor force.

Projected Workforce by Status for the Median Scenario, 2001–2011 .

Although these workforce projections are subject to many caveats, such as incomplete data and uncertainties in the economy and government spending, the balance between Ph.D. production and employment looks quite stable through 2011. Unemployment remains at about 1 percent, and the portion of the workforce remaining in science is about 80 percent. The committee believes this is a healthy percentage of trained people employed in science, but it has concerns about those unemployed and not seeking employment. The percentage of women in this category is significantly greater than their male counterparts, and there is a fear that some talented researchers may be lost because of the difficulty of balancing a career in science and raising a family. (This matter is considered further in Chapter 9 , Career Progression.)

The analysis in this chapter suggests that the number of researchers in basic biomedical research will remain stable for the next decade, as will employment opportunities, and the percentage of postdoctorals in holding patterns appears to be declining. Nevertheless, the committee's concern about the increased time to degree and the length of postdoctoral appointments should be noted—an infusion of young people into independent research positions, after all, is critical to the health of the research community. However, we also note that the increase in the average age of researchers parallels the aging of the general population.

“Success” is not easily quantified, but anecdotal evidence suggests that the NRSA program has successfully produced high-quality research personnel and has been important for the upgrading of research training in general. The MSTP program also merits special mention. It has been brilliantly successful at attracting outstanding physicians into basic biomedical research, much to the benefit of future health care. Given their special knowledge of human disease, physicians lend a unique perspective to such research.

The committee's recommendations for future training in the basic biomedical sciences are presented below, along with brief justifications based on the analysis described in this chapter.

• RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommendation 2-1: This committee recommends that the total number of NRSA positions awarded in the biomedical sciences should remain at least at the 2003 level. Furthermore, the committee recommends that training levels after 2003 be commensurate with the rise in the total extramural research funding in the biomedical, clinical, and behavioral and social sciences.

Although manpower models have been developed in this report, they are not particularly useful in assessing the role of NRSA support in particular, as this represents only a small fraction of the total training support in the biomedical sciences. Available information, however, suggests that the system is in reasonable balance. Stipends clearly should rise over time, but this should be accomplished by the allocation of additional funds, not by decreasing the number of trainees. The relatively low unemployment among Ph.D.s in the biomedical sciences, an almost constant number of U.S.-trained doctorates from 2001 to 2003, and the fact that the pool of postdoctorates appears to be stabilizing or declining justify the suggested level, which should not fall below that of 2003.

The year 2001 is the last one for which reasonably accurate data were available for awards specific to the biomedical sciences. However, the total number of NRSA awards continued to rise ( Figure 1-1 ) in 2002 and 2003, and it is assumed that the awards in the biomedical sciences have also increased. Using the percentage increase from 2001 to 2003 from Table 1-1 and the actual awards data for 2001 in Tables 2-2 and 2-3 , the predoctoral and postdoctoral traineeships in the biomedical sciences in 2003 are estimated to be 5,390 and 1,740, respectively. Fellowship data for 2002 appear to be more complete and show that awards at the postdoctoral level are somewhat below those of 2001. Based on the totals for NRSA predoctoral and postdoctoral training in 2001 and 2003, the estimated levels for fellowships in 2003 for the biomedical sciences are 425 and 1,450, respectively.

The primary rationale for NRSA is to attract high-quality people into specific research areas and to set the training standards for major research fields. NRSAs should be a paragon for quality training and have served this role admirably. NRSA programs are an important investment in the future to ensure the health of the research enterprise and should be made by all NIH institutes and centers.

Beyond the monetary requirements of maintaining NRSA training numbers, this committee does not recommend that support be shifted from research grants to training grants (contrary to the recommendation of the previous committee). A balance is needed between research and training grants for the productive support of students and postdoctorates. Research grants offer an alternative training venue, and students and postdoctorates are essential for accomplishing the research specified in research grants. Moreover, a variety of support mechanisms for training is desirable. The NRSA provides multiple pipelines into the research endeavor, most notably for foreign students and postdoctorates. In certain technical areas, insufficient numbers of U.S. citizens are available to train in and carry out national research efforts in critical areas. The training of foreign scientists on research grants has also significantly enriched the talent pool in this country, as they often join the workforce for extended periods of time, including permanent residence.

Although two earlier National Academies committees 23 , 24 have recommended that some NIH research funding be shifted to training grants and fellowships, our committee has concluded—based on the uncertainty about the rate of future growth in employment opportunities in industry, and perhaps other sectors, and the considerations discussed above—that the number of graduate students supported on NRSA training grants should not increase any faster than NIH research funding, which is a principal determinant of employment demand. With regard to postdoctoral support, another National Academies committee 25 has recommended that foreign scientists be permitted to receive training grant and fellowship support—thereby increasing the size of the eligible pool—and that some research funds be transferred to training budgets. However, consideration of the current restriction on supporting foreign scientists on NRSA training was outside the scope of this study and was not discussed by our committee.

At the present time, the committee does not recommend a shift in the overall proportion of training dollars spent on NRSA versus other training vehicles but does suggest that the ratios of research dollars to fellows/students be maintained in approximate alignment for the different areas and that training efforts be supported by all NIH institutes and centers. Better coordination of training efforts across institutes is needed. The committee recognizes, however, that the balance may vary from field to field and will evolve over time.

Recommendation 2-2: This committee recommends that the size of MSTP programs be expanded by at least 20 percent and that the scope be expanded to include the clinical, health services, and behavioral and social sciences.

Available evidence suggests that it is increasingly difficult for physicians to move into research because of the high cost of medical training and graduates' enormous debt load. Nevertheless, the committee believes that it is very important to attract physicians into research and that MSTP programs have done so with remarkable success; the excellent record of these programs' M.D./Ph.D.s in obtaining research grants and remaining in research is well documented. This would increase the number of trainees from the 2003 level of 933 to about 1,120.

As has been the policy, MSTP grants should be confined to institutions where high-quality medical and research training are both available. Expanding the range of disciplines should be helpful in attracting physicians into clinical and health services research but not at the expense of current MSTP support for basic biomedical training. Today's applicant pool for MSTP positions can easily accommodate a doubling of the size of the program without compromising its current quality. However, in recognition of the high cost of the MSTP program and budget constraints, the committee recommends a 20 percent increase as a significant and prudent investment.

U.S. Department of Education. 2000 .

Tabulations from the Higher Education Research Institute and the U.S. Department of Education.

Unpublished tabulation from the Survey of Earned Doctorates, 2001. Available from the National Academies.

Freeman, R. B., et. al. 2001 .

National Research Council. 1998c .

Goldman, E. and E. Marshall. 2002 .

National Science Foundation. 1997 .

National Science Foundation. 2002b .

The down turn in 1991 may be due to a change in the Survey of Doctorate Recipient data collection methods.

National Science Foundation. 2004 .

NIH Web site: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/award/research/rgbydgre01.htm . Accessed on October 22, 2004.

Unpublished tabulation from the NIH IMPAC System.

NIH Web site: NIH Statement in Response to Addressing the Nation's Changing Needs for Biomedical and Behavioral Scientists, http://grants.nih.gov/training/nas_report/NIHResponse.htm .

See Appendix B for a complete explanation of the awards.

NIH Web site. Available on http://grants.nih.gov/grants/award/research/rgbydgre01.htm . Accessed October 22, 2004.

National Research Council. 2000b .

Massy, W. F., and C. A. Goldman. 1995 .

Coggeshall, P., and P. W. Brown. 1984 .

Pion, G. M. 2000 .

National Institute of General Medical Sciences. 1998 .

Partial data are available from the Association of American Medical College's Faculty Roster and from the National Science Foundation, National Survey of College Graduates.

National Research Council. 2000a .

National Research Council. 1998c . op. cit.

National Research Council. 2005 .

• Cite this Page National Research Council (US) Committee for Monitoring the Nation's Changing Needs for Biomedical, Behavioral, and Clinical Personnel. Advancing the Nation's Health Needs: NIH Research Training Programs. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2005. 2, Basic Biomedical Sciences Research.
• PDF version of this title (1.4M)

In this Page

Other titles in this collection.

• The National Academies Collection: Reports funded by National Institutes of Health

Recent Activity

• Basic Biomedical Sciences Research - Advancing the Nation's Health Needs Basic Biomedical Sciences Research - Advancing the Nation's Health Needs

Your browsing activity is empty.

Activity recording is turned off.

Turn recording back on

Connect with NLM

National Library of Medicine 8600 Rockville Pike Bethesda, MD 20894

Web Policies FOIA HHS Vulnerability Disclosure

Help Accessibility Careers

Home > Colleges and Schools > Engineering & Technology > Biomedical Engineering > ETDs

Biomedical Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Theses and dissertations published by graduate students in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Old Dominion University since Fall 2016 are available in this collection. Backfiles of all dissertations (and some theses) have also been added.

In late Fall 2023 or Spring 2024, all theses will be digitized and available here. In the meantime, consult the Library Catalog to find older items in print.

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Dissertation: Investigation of Nanosecond Pulsed Electric Fields (nsPEF) Induced Anti-Cancer Mechanism and Enhanced B16f10 Melanoma Cancer Treatment , Kamal Asadipour

Thesis: Validation of Meta Motion IMU Sensors Through Measurement of Knee Angles During Gait , Kerri Caruso

Dissertation: Pulsed Electric Field Ablation: Mechanisms of Differential Cell Sensitivity and Methods to Mitigate Neuromuscular Excitation , Emily Gudvangen

Dissertation: Nanosecond Pulsed Electric Field Modulates Electron Transport and Mitochondrial Structure and Function , Lucas Nelson Potter

Dissertation: Cardiac Ablation and Stimulation With Nanosecond Pulsed Electric Fields (nsPEFs) , Federica Serra

Thesis: Ultrasensitive Tapered Optical Fiber Refractive Index Glucose Sensor , Erem Ujah

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Thesis: Investigating Arrhythmia Potential in Cardiac Myocytes in Presence of Long QT Syndrome , Victoria Lin Lam

Dissertation: The Development and Application of Open-Source 3D Bioprinted Organoid and Tumoroid Models for Translational Sciences , Xavier-Lewis Palmer

Dissertation: Engineering of Ideal Systems for the Study and Direction of Stem Cell Asymmetrical Division and Fate Determination , Martina Zamponi

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Dissertation: Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Ion Transport Through Electrically Stressed Biological Membranes , Federica Castellani

Dissertation: Integrative Computational Analysis of Muscle Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Signals: Effects of Oxygen Delivery and Blood Volume , Bhabuk Koirala

Dissertation: Subtalar Joint Definition in Biomechanical Models , Julia Noginova

Thesis: Drive Leg and Stride Leg Ground Reaction Forces Relationship to Medial Elbow Stress and Velocity in Collegiate Baseball Pitchers , Brett Smith

Dissertation: Generation, Analysis, and Evaluation of Patient-Specific, Osteoligamentous, Spine Meshes , Austin R. Tapp

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Thesis: Biphasic Gene Electrotransfer Enhances Gene Delivery In Vitro , John Bui

Thesis: Flexible Electrochemical Lactate Sensor , Peyton Miesse

Dissertation: Nanosecond Stimulation and Defibrillation of Langendorff-Perfused Rabbit Hearts , Johanna Neuber

Thesis: Impedance Analysis of Tissues in nsPEF Treatment for Cancer Therapy , Edwin Ayobami Oshin

Thesis: Do Different Pathologies Affect the Relationship Between the Stiffness of the Plantar Fascia and the Function of the MTP Joint? , Madeline Ryan Pauley

Dissertation: Validation of Nanosecond Pulse Cancellation Using a Quadrupole Exposure System , Hollie A. Ryan

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Dissertation: Estimating Cognitive Workload in an Interactive Virtual Reality Environment Using Electrophysiological and Kinematic Activity , Christoph Tremmel

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Dissertation: Non-Invasive Picosecond Pulse System for Electrostimulation , Ross Aaron Petrella

Dissertation: 3D Bioprinting Systems for the Study of Mammary Development and Tumorigenesis , John Reid

Thesis: Developmental Steps for a Functional Three-Dimensional Cell Culture System for the Study of Asymmetrical Division of Neural Stem Cells , Martina Zamponi

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Thesis: Thermally Assisted Pulsed Electric Field Ablation for Cancer Therapy , James Michael Hornef

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Dissertation: Multichannel Characterization of Brain Activity in Neurological Impairments , Yalda Shahriari

Dissertation: New Engineering Approaches to Arrhythmias and Myocardial Infarction , Frency Varghese

Dissertation: Development of a Practical Visual-Evoked Potential-Based Brain-Computer Interface , Nicholas R. Waytowich

Dissertation: Ablation of Cardiac Tissue with Nanosecond Pulsed Electric Fields: Experiments and Numerical Simulations , Fei Xie

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines
• Author Guidelines
• Other Digital Collections
• ODU Libraries
• Old Dominion University

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

Home > FACULTIES > BIOMEDENG > BIOMEDENG-ETD

Biomedical Engineering Theses and Dissertations

This collection contains theses and dissertations from the Department of Biomedical Engineering, collected from the Scholarship@Western Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Theses/Dissertations from 2024 2024

Bioactive and Electrically Conductive Nanocomposite Bone Biomaterials , Rebeca A. Arambula-Maldonado

Computational Modelling of Branching Arteriolar Networks using Constrained Constructive Optimization , Yuki Bao

Physical and Geometrical Modulation of Human Fibroblast Behaviour , Sarah M. Brooks

Optimization of Full-Inversion Techniques Towards Clinical Ultrasound Elastography , Matthew A. Caius

Data Preprocessing and Machine Learning for Intracranial Electroencephalography , Mauricio Cespedes Tenorio

Co-delivery of Adipose-derived Stromal Cells and Endothelial Colony Forming Cells in Novel Cell-assembled Scaffolds as a Pro-angiogenic Cell Therapy Platform , Sarah A. From

Porous Titanium Alloy Constructs for Mandibular Reconstruction , Khaled Marwan Anis Hijazi

Comprehensive Assessment of Implant Movement Following Total Hip Arthroplasty: Analysis of Surgical Approach, Implant System, and Imaging Techniques , Jennifer Sabah Polus

Stimuli-responsive antibacterial coatings , Monica Vasquez Pena

Theses/Dissertations from 2023 2023

Multiparametric Classification of Tumor Treatment Using Ultrasound Microvascular Imaging , mahsa bataghva

Towards Patient Specific Mitral Valve Modelling via Dynamic 3D Transesophageal Echocardiography , Patrick Carnahan

Developing a Finite Element Model for Evaluating the Posterior Tibial Slope in a Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy , VIctor Alexander Carranza

Analysis and Characterization of Embroidered Textile Strain Sensors for Use in Wearable Mechatronic Devices , Jose Guillermo Colli Alfaro

Developing Bioactive Hydrogels Containing Cell-derived Extracellular Matrix for Bone and Cartilage Repair , Ali Coyle

Modelling of a TCA-driven Wearable Tremor Suppression Device for People with Parkinson’s Disease , Parisa Daemi

Using Machine Learning Models to Address Challenges in Lung Cancer Care , Salma Dammak

Longitudinal dynamics of cerebrospinal fluid Aꞵ, pTau and sTREM2 reveal predictive preclinical trajectories of Alzheimer’s pathology , Bahaaldin Helal

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING BIOMARKERS FOR PARKINSON’S DISEASE: A MACHINE LEARNING APPROACH , Dimuthu Henadeerage Don

Detecting Treatment Failure in Rheumatoid Arthritis with Time-Domain Diffuse Optical Methods , Seva Ioussoufovitch

Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Compatible Mechatronic Needle Guidance System for Prostate Focal Laser Ablation Therapy , Eric R. Knull

The Development of Stimuli-responsive Hydrogels from Self-Immolative Polymers , Jared David Pardy

Free-hand Photoacoustic Imaging of Breast Cancer Tissue , Elina Rascevska

Development of a Cell-based Regenerative Strategy to Modulate Angiogenesis and Inflammation in Ischemic Muscle , Fiona E. Serack

Investigation of Dynamic Culture on Matrix-derived Microcarriers as a Strategy to Modulate the Pro-Regenerative Phenotype of Human Adipose-derived Stromal Cells , McKenna R. Tosh

Evaluating EEG–EMG Fusion-Based Classification as a Method for Improving Control of Wearable Robotic Devices for Upper-Limb Rehabilitation , Jacob G. Tryon

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

A two-layer continuous-capillary oxygen transport model: Development and application to blood flow regulation in resting skeletal muscle. , Keith C. Afas

Development of a Hybrid Stereotactic Guidance System For Percutaneous Liver Tumour Ablation , Joeana N. Cambranis Romero

Large-scale Analysis and Automated Detection of Trunnion Corrosion on Hip Arthroplasty Devices , Anastasia M. Codirenzi

The Role of Transient Vibration of the Skull on Concussion , Rodrigo Dalvit Carvalho da Silva

Biomechanical Investigation of Complete and Partial Medial Collateral Ligament Injuries , Callahan Doughty

Towards A Comprehensive Software Suite for Stereotactic Neurosurgery , Greydon Gilmore

The Bio-Mechanical Development and Kinematic Evaluation of Zone I and Zone II Injuries and their Corresponding Surgical Repair Techniques using an In-Vitro Active Finger Motion Simulator: A Cadaveric Study , Mohammad Haddara

Image-based Cochlear Implant Frequency-to-Place Mapping , Luke William Helpard

Mechanical Evaluation of Gyroid Structures to Combat Orthopaedic Implant Infections , Sydney Hitchon

The Development of a Motion Sensing Device for Use in a Home Setting , Jaspreet K. Kalsi

A Novel Ultrasound Elastography Technique for Evaluating Tumor Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients with Locally Advanced Breast Cancer , Niusha Kheirkhah

Thermo-responsive Antibiotic-Eluting Coatings for Treating Infection near Orthopedic Implants , Jan Chung Kwan

Effects of Modulating the Culture Microenvironment on the Growth and Secretome of Human Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells , Zhiyu Liang

Conducting Polypyrrole Hydrogel Biomaterials For Drug Delivery And Cartilage Tissue Regeneration , Iryna Liubchak

Motion and Crosslinked Polyethylene Wear in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty , Christopher Millward

Intracardiac Ultrasound Guided Systems for Transcatheter Cardiac Interventions , Hareem Nisar

Investigation of Cell Derived Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery and Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Stem/Stromal Cells , Shruthi Polla Ravi

Quantitative Image Analysis of White Matter Dysregulation Using Brain Normalization for Diagnostic Analysis of Pediatric Hydrocephalus , Renee-Marie Ragguett

Automation through Deep-Learning to Quantify Ventilation Defects in Lungs from High-Resolution Isotropic Hyperpolarized 129Xe Magnetic Resonance Imaging , Tuneesh Kaur Ranota

Early Biological Response of Articular Cartilage to Hemiarthroplasty Wear , Debora Rossetti

Sol-Gel Derived Bioceramic Poly(Diethyl Fumarate – Co – Triethoxyvinylsilane) Composite , Aref Sleiman

The Application of Digital Volume Correlation Bone Strain Measurements in the Osteoarthritic Glenohumeral Joint , Jakub R. Targosinski

Development of Brain-Derived Bioscaffolds for Neural Progenitor Cell Culture and Delivery , Julia Terek

Modelling and Evaluation of Piezoelectric Actuators for Wearable Neck Rehabilitation Devices , Shaemus D. Tracey

Development of a Combined Experimental-Computational Framework to Study Human Knee Biomechanics , Samira Vakili

Investigation on the Performance of Dry Powder Inhalation System for Enhanced Delivery of Levosalbutamol Sulfate , Yuqing Ye

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Development of a Wireless Telemetry Load and Displacement Sensor for Orthopaedic Applications , William Anderson

Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Biomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery , Neda Aslankoohi

Fabrication Of Inkjet-Printed Enzyme-Based Biosensors Towards Point-Of-Care Applications , Yang Bai

The Use of CT to Assess Shoulder Kinematics and Measure Glenohumeral Arthrokinematics , Baraa Daher

The Development of Region-Specific Decellularized Meniscus Bioinks for 3D Bioprinting Applications , Sheradan Doherty

In Vitro Analyses of the Contributions of the Hip Capsule to Joint Biomechanics , Emma Donnelly

Long-Circulating, Degradable Lanthanide-Based Contrast Agents for Pre-Clinical Microcomputed Tomography of the Vasculature , Eric Grolman

Mixed-reality visualization environments to facilitate ultrasound-guided vascular access , Leah Groves

Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy , Loxlan W. Kasa

Extracellular Matrix-Derived Microcarriers as 3-D Cell Culture Platforms , Anna Kornmuller

3D Printed Polypyrrole Scaffolds for pH Dependent Drug Delivery with Applications in Bone Regeneration , Matthew T. Lawrence

Development of Multifunctional Drug Delivery Systems for Locoregional Therapy , Xinyi Li

Motion Intention Estimation using sEMG-ACC Sensor Fusion , Jose Alejandro Lopez

Biomaterial for Cervical Intervertebral Disc Prosthesis , Helium Mak

Biomechanical Analysis of Ligament Modelling Techniques and Femoral Component Malrotation Following TKA , Liam A. Montgomery

Snapshot Three-Dimensional Surface Imaging With Multispectral Fringe Projection Profilometry , Parsa Omidi

4DCT to Examine Carpal Motion , Sydney M. Robinson

Seizure Detection Using Deep Learning, Information Theoretic Measures and Factor Graphs , Bahareh Salafian

Modeling Fetal Brain Development: A semi-automated platform for localization, reconstruction, and segmentation of the fetal brain on MRI , Jianan Wang

Immobilized Jagged1 for Notch3-specific Differentiation and Phenotype Control of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells , Kathleen E. Zohorsky

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Simulation Approaches to X-ray C-Arm-based Interventions , Daniel R. Allen

Implementing a multi-segment foot model in a clinical setting to measure inter-segmental joint motions , Tahereh Amiri

Cardiac Modelling Techniques to Predict Future Heart Function and New Biomarkers in Acute Myocardial Infarction , Sergio C. H. Dempsey

Feasibility of Twisted Coiled Polymer Actuators for Use in Upper Limb Wearable Rehabilitation Devices , Brandon P.R. Edmonds

Metal Additive Manufacturing for Fixed Dental Prostheses , Mai EL Najjar

Using an Internal Auditory Stimulus to Activate the Developing Primary Auditory Cortex: A Fetal fMRI Study , Estee Goldberg

Development of Water-Soluble Polyesters for Tissue Engineering Applications , Trent Gordon

Development Of Hybrid Coating Materials To Improve The Success Of Titanium Implants , Zach Gouveia

A 3D Printed Axon-Mimetic Diffusion MRI Phantom , Tristan K. Kuehn

Development of an Active Infection Monitoring Knee Spacer for Two-Stage Revision , Michael K. Lavdas

Computational Modeling of the Human Brain for mTBI Prediction and Diagnosis , Yanir Levy

Pulmonary Imaging of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease using Multi-Parametric Response Maps , Jonathan MacNeil

Optimization of Indentation for the Material Characterization of Soft PVA-Cryogels , Md. Mansur ul Mulk

Development and Validation of Augmented Reality Training Simulator for Ultrasound Guided Percutaneous Renal Access , Yanyu Mu

A Biomechanical Investigation into the Effect of Experimental Design on Wrist Biomechanics and Contact Mechanics , Clare E. Padmore

Structure-Function Relationships in the Brain: Applications in Neurosurgery , Daiana-Roxana Pur

The Effect of Joint Alignment After a Wrist Injury on Joint Mechanics and Osteoarthritis Development , Puneet Kaur Ranota

Development and Validation of Tools for Improving Intraoperative Implant Assessment with Ultrasound during Gynaecological Brachytherapy , Jessica Robin Rodgers

Studies on Carbon Quantum Dots with Special Luminescent Properties and Their Capability of Overcoming the Biological Barriers , Ji Su Song

Machine Learning towards General Medical Image Segmentation , Clara Tam

The Migration and Wear of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty , Madeleine L. Van de Kleut

Video Processing for the Evaluation of Vascular Dynamics in Neurovascular Interventions , Reid Vassallo

Preparation of Intra-articular Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis , Ian Villamagna

Deep Reinforcement Learning in Medical Object Detection and Segmentation , Dong Zhang

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Fabrication and Characterization of Collagen-Polypyrrole Constructs Using Direct-Ink Write Additive Manufacturing , Rooshan Arshad

Development of a Force-Based Ream Vector Measurement System For Glenoid Reaming Simulation , David Axford

Investigation of Visual Perceptions in Parkinson's Disease and the Development of Disease Monitoring Software , Matthew Bernardinis

Tissue Equivalent Gellan Gum Gel Materials for Clinical MRI and Radiation Dosimetry , Pawel Brzozowski

Implementation of User-Independent Hand Gesture Recognition Classification Models Using IMU and EMG-based Sensor Fusion Techniques , José Guillermo Collí Alfaro

• Accessible Formats

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Expert Gallery
• Online Journals
• eBook Collections
• Reports and Working Papers
• Conferences and Symposiums
• Electronic Theses and Dissertations
• Digitized Special Collections
• All Collections
• Disciplines

Author Corner

• Submit Thesis/Dissertation

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement | Privacy | Copyright

©1878 - 2016 Western University