The Ph.D. in pathology provides opportunities for graduate training in fundamentals of modern pathobiology, immunology, and investigative microbiology, with an emphasis on a multi-disciplinary approach to research problems. Study naturally occurring animal disease and host response in a variety of species, including cancer, inflammatory, and infectious diseases. The program will not only provide a strong foundation in a selected discipline, but also involves research in progressive areas such as emerging diseases, comparative oncology, interdisciplinary/systems biology, and translational medicine.
Earning a PhD in pathology involves years of intensive study on the causes and nature of disease But a pathology doctorate degree is not just limited to working in a lab There are many career options out there that utilize the unique skillset gained from pathology training,
If you love solving medical mysteries and enjoy research, a PhD in pathology offers diverse opportunities beyond becoming a practicing pathologist. Here are six rewarding jobs that pathology PhD graduates can pursue.
1. Microbiologist
Microbiologists study microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. With a pathology focus, your background knowledge on disease and infection is a great fit for investigating pathogens and infectious diseases.
A microbiology career lets you work in a variety of environments beyond the lab like government agencies, universities and private companies. Your expertise can have an important public health impact identifying sources of disease outbreaks or developing new treatments.
2. Medical Scientist
Medical scientists conduct extensive research to improve human health. They frequently work in labs and clinics investigating diseases or testing new drugs and treatments.
A pathology PhD provides the ideal foundation for a medical science career thanks to your specialized knowledge of the medical field. Your research skills and analytical mindset also translate well to developing and testing clinical interventions.
3. Postsecondary Education Administrator
If you enjoy teaching others, consider a career as an administrator at a college or university. You could oversee pathology education programs and curricula for graduate students and medical residents.
Your own pathology doctorate and lab experience make you an excellent mentor for students learning this specialty. Other options include directing admissions, student affairs, or research programs in a university’s medical school.
4. Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) evaluate and treat communication and swallowing disorders. Interested in neuroscience? Many SLPs work with stroke patients or those with brain injuries to help restore lost language and speech abilities.
Your pathology insights into neurological diseases and brain function provide a scientific background for assessing impaired communication. SLPs collaborate with medical teams in hospitals, clinics and private practice.
5. Natural Sciences Manager
If you love leading teams and managing complex projects, consider a career as a natural sciences manager. This role oversees science and research operations in settings like labs, museums, environmental agencies and pharmaceutical companies.
You could apply your pathology expertise to guide public health initiatives, direct biomedical research, or supervise science education programs. Your PhD and lab training offer managerial credibility.
6. Medical Director
Medical directors occupy senior leadership positions in healthcare organizations. They set policies and strategic vision for clinical services, research programs or medical education.
Years of pathology research make you a qualified expert to take on this important role. Medical directors leverage their MD or PhD backgrounds to improve patient care and health outcomes through high-level decision making.
A PhD in pathology provides extensive scientific training that opens doors to diverse careers. You can continue research in exciting new directions as a microbiologist, share your knowledge teaching at a university, lead teams on critical projects, or influence better medical care as a director.
Look beyond the lab when considering your career options—a pathology doctorate offers versatile skills that translate to in-demand fields. With a PhD in pathology, you can truly make an impact while pursuing your unique passions.
Application Information and Deadlines
Interested applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be considered for this program. GRE scores are not required and will not be considered if voluntarily submitted.
To apply, complete the Online Graduate Application via the Graduate School. The following materials are required for this program, and must be received by December 1:
- Statement of Purpose (2-3 pages double spaced)
- Resume/CV
- 3 letters of recommendation: This program requires 3 recommenders, which may be more than other graduate programs at CSU require.
- Official transcripts: The department will not accept unofficial transcripts as a replacement. This may be different than other graduate programs at CSU.
- English proficiency results (for international applicants only, unless your country is exempt)
- Application fee (please verify all other requirements are fulfilled before paying). The Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology cannot waive the fee. The Graduate School offers application fee waivers to participants in specific, eligible programs.
Please visit our FAQ page for in-depth answers about the admissions process.
Because this is a fall-start only program, if you select a spring or summer start your application will not be reviewed.
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| December 1 | Application deadline |
| Mid-January | First-round interviews (live video) |
| February | Second-round interviews (in person) |
Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology
With a focus on understanding internationally important infectious diseases, the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology is home to world-renowned scientists and leaders in laboratory research. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience by working alongside faculty with specialties in bacteriology, mycobacterial diseases, prion biology, vector-borne infectious diseases, virology, and computational biology.
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Hands-on experience
Opportunity to work alongside world-renowned pathologists, clinicians, and researchers in departmental laboratories and centers
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Teaching and mentoring experience
Gain teaching experience in undergraduate courses and the Research Teams Program, which facilitates research, allows graduate students to earn credit through developing mentoring skills, and provides undergraduate students with research experience.
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Collaborative research opportunities
Take advantage of established collaborations within the university and with organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, and Hokkaido University in Japan.
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Personalized program of study
Build a flexible program of study based on academic background and area of specialization
There are many opportunities to work with our world-renowned faculty in the areas of:
- Bacteriology
- Cancer biology
- Computational biology
- Mycobacterial diseases
- Pathobiology
- Pathology
- Prion biology
- Translational medicine
- Vector-borne infectious diseases
- Virology
Students may be eligible to earn grant funding and additional hands-on research experience by participating in a research training opportunity funded by the National Institutes of Health:
Careers in Pathology: Dr. Duane Newton
What can I do with a PhD in pathology?
A Ph.D. in pathology prepares you for various scientific careers that involve research and study. With the right skills and knowledge, you’re more likely to succeed in your chosen profession. Here are the various jobs you can pursue with a Ph.D. in pathology, along with some salary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): 1.
What is a PhD in pathology & laboratory medicine?
The PhD in Pathology & Laboratory Medicine is for students who want to participate in breakthrough scientific research and contribute to the advancement of biomedical knowledge, learning how diseases work at a mechanistic level.
Where can I get a PhD in pathology?
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine offers a research-based PhD program in pathology. The Indiana BioMedical Gateway (IBMG) Program is the expected route for entry into the PhD program in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.
How do I apply for a PhD in pathology?
Applications for PhD programs in pathology are processed through the IU School of Medicine BioMedical Gateway (IBMG) program online application system. Minor program requirements: 12 credits in a related discipline; 6 of which must be obtained from a single department or program.
