The GEMS PhD program provides PhD training to intellectually curious and diligent individuals interested in research in any area of the biomedical sciences. Our mission is to develop skills, knowledge, and expertise during PhD education, enabling graduates to pursue biomedical research related careers.

GEMS is the PhD granting program for the UI College of Medicine. GEMS has more than 120 faculty members at UIC and has trained more than 350 students since its start in 2004. Faculty members and scientific areas of training are organized within the GEMS umbrella via six Research Concentrations (Cancer Biology, Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Integrative and Translational Physiology, Microbiology Immunity and Inflammation, Molecular and Structural Biology, and Neurobiology). GEMS works with the Office of Graduate Diversity Programs and the Bridge to the Doctorate Program to cultivate opportunities for diverse groups of students. We encourage students from all backgrounds with records of exceptional achievement to apply. UIC does not discriminate on the basis of nationality, race, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, or disability.

“I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.”
― Albert Einstein

“I never thought of stopping, and I just hated sleeping. I can’t imagine having a better life.”
― Barbara McClintock

“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.”
― Marie Curie

“The best way to get good ideas is to get lots of ideas.”
― Linus Pauling