Alumni Information
The Bioscience PhD programs were established in 1987 with the mission of providing the best graduate training in Molecular Biology and Biological Chemistry for the next generation of scientists. Since then, more than 450 students graduated with a Ph.D. from our programs and are now occupying such positions as university professors, pharmaceutical company scientists and patent attorneys, just to name a few. The experience from the Bioscience PhD programs goes beyond just technical training. The best way to convey this is to read what our alumni have to say when reflecting upon their time in the Bioscience PhD programs at the University of Utah.
Where do our graduates go after graduation?
Total Alumni that have graduated with a PhD (1987-2011): 450
The below represents 267 out of the 450 total alumni with a PhD degree.
Alumni Spotlights
Harrison F. Dillon, J.D., Ph.D. (Class of '98)
President & Chief Technology Officer
Solazyme, Inc
"The Bioscience Molecular Biology Program was crucial in training me as a geneticist and helping me become an independent thinker."
Lisa Goering, Ph.D. (Class of '03)
Assistant Professor of Biology
St. Edward's University, Austin, Texas
"The most valuable lesson I learned while in the University of Utah's Bioscience Molecular Biology program was persistence! And the importance of collaboration in the sciences."
Matthew Jonsen, J.D., Ph.D. (Class of '99)
Associate
Dorsey and Whitney, LLP
"The oddity of patent law is that most inventors in the biotech space have an aversion to working with non-PhDs. While I believe this is probably unjustified, it means that patent attorneys with bio/chem PhDs are in high demand. My degree also provides me with an excellent base for understanding most of the technologies I have worked on. Thus, my clients can usually cut to the chase with a detailed description of the technology without having to provide a huge amount of background."
To view Jonsen's complete profile click here.
Beth Stronach, Ph.D. (Class of '97)
Associate Professor of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
University of Pittsburgh
"The most valuable things/lessons I learned were to write well and to be open minded. I had several memorable moments while in the program: All the red marks on my first exam, when a professor told us we would end up as trash collectors if we didn't work harder, hosting Sean Carroll (the "evo-devo guy") for a seminar, and outrageous parties at Eric Jorgensen's house!"
