phd in medical laboratory science in canada

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University of Manitoba

University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2

Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PhD)

The Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PhD) will focus on research at the molecular, tissue, animal and clinical levels to understand the changes associated with diseases. Students will be provided with an opportunity to carry out supervised research in various areas including but not limited to: breast cancer, stem cell biology, pathophysiology of neurodegeneration, pathogenesis of rare brain diseases, human neuropathology in population health, molecular imaging, identification of novel biomarkers and treatment targets for various pathological conditions. This will allow graduates to successfully pursue further educational opportunities and careers in academia/education, health care, industry, government, as well as entrepreneurial ventures.

Program details

Admission requirements.

• Rady Faculty of Health Sciences • Faculty of Graduate Studies

• Doctor of Philosophy

Expected duration

• 4-6 years

Study with us

Program highlights.

The PhD program in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine offers trainees in-depth, comprehensive research training. Our department is uniquely positioned to fill a gap in the training of graduate students as our program allows direct access to patient samples of neoplastic and non-neoplastic diseases. Currently, there is no other faculty or department positioned to offer a distinguished merger between diagnostic clinical medicine and research.

The PhD program in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine refers to disease-related biomedical research. The program focuses on molecular, tissue, animal, and clinical research to understand the changes associated with diseases.

Our facilities are well-equipped with the necessary diagnostic and scientific tools and expertise to conduct high-caliber and innovative research. Training offered through this PhD program further enhances opportunities for interdepartmental collaborations and contributes to investigations in the frame of personalized medicine.

Students will carry out supervised research in various areas, including (but not limited to):

• breast cancer
• stem cell biology
• pathophysiology of neurodegeneration
• pathogenesis of rare brain diseases
• human neuropathology in population health
• pulmonary and cardiovascular pathophysiology
• molecular imaging
• identification of novel biomarkers
• treatment targets for various pathological conditions

The Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PhD) is a four to six-year program.

Doctor of Philosophy (Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

Expected duration:  4-6 years

Tuition and fees:  Tuition fees are charged for terms one and two and terms four and five. A continuing fee is paid for term three, term six and each subsequent term. (Refer to Graduate tuition and fees .)

In addition to the minimum course requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, found in the  Graduate Studies Regulations Section , students must complete 12 credit hours of study including:

• IMED 7212: Introduction to Disease Mechanisms; and
• 9 credit hours of courses at the 7000-8000 level

The following are minimum requirements to be considered for entry into the PhD program in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

Direct entry

To be considered for direct entry to the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PhD) program, you must have: 

• Provisional acceptance of a qualified graduate student supervisor
• A thesis based master’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university in a closely related field
• A cumulative GPA of 3.2 over a 4.5 scale or equivalent and no grade less than C+ in courses taken during the master’s program
• Show evidence of personal, intellectual and professional attributes that would predict success as an independent investigator

In addition to the admission requirements described here, all applicants must meet the minimum  admission and English language proficiency requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies .

Finding a graduate supervisor

Applicants must interview (by email or virtually) with a potential supervisor prior to applying and obtain confirmation from the supervisor that the supervisor will accept them if they are approved and offered admission by the Faculty of Graduate Studies. The potential supervisor must be a University of Manitoba, Department of Pathology member. 

• See the list of potential advisors currently accepting students  

The supervisor must be able to provide at least the minimum level of financial support (currently $20,000 per year for four years). 

Transferring from a master's program

Master’s students within the department may apply for transfer to the PhD degree program following consultation and agreement of both the student and their supervisor. The request for entry to the PhD program will be considered provided the requirements listed in the Supplementary Regulations (transfer from the master’s to the PhD program) are met.

How to apply

The Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PhD) program accepts applications for Fall and Winter entry. Applications must be completed online and include several parts:

• $100 application fee (non-refundable) 
• Unofficial copies of transcripts and degree certificates 
• Two letters of recommendation (must be requested from within the application) 
• CV/resume 
• Supervisor support must be confirmed prior to applying 
• Statement of intent 
• Proof of English language proficiency , if required 

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Architecture reviews applications in March.

Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.

Start or continue your application

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for City Planning reviews applications in March.

Winter applications are accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Design and Planning reviews applications in March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Interior Design reviews applications in March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Landscape Architecture reviews applications in March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Anthropology reviews applications in March/April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applications open September 1 of year prior to start term.

Application deadlines

Applications open   up to 18 months prior  to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for History reviews applications in February.

Applications are reviewed on a  rolling basis .

Applications open July 1 of year prior to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a  Committee basis . The Committee for German and Slavic Studies reviews applications in February/March.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis .

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Management reviews applications in February / March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Physical Therapy reviews applications in April / May.

Applications open  August 1 of the year prior to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Program currently undergoing review, applications will not be opening at this time.

Select Preventive Dental Science in the Program drop-down on the application form.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Educational Administration, Foundations and Psychology reviews applications in March / April.

Applications to Educational Administration, Foundations and Psychology are currently closed.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Education reviews applications in February / March.

Applications to Education PhD are currently closed.

Applications are reviewed after the deadline, with decisions issued in March - April.

Currently not accepting applications to this program.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. Applications received by the March 1 deadline for a September start-date will receive first consideration for any available funding. Late applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis for any available funding, please contact the department for further information.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Human Rights reviews applications in January - March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Law reviews applications in January - March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Nursing (MN) reviews applications in April / May.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Nursing PhD reviews applications in February / March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee reviews applications as per the timelines noted below each table.

Winter applications reviewed in October Summer applications reviewed in February Fall applications reviewed in June

Winter applications reviewed in June Summer applications reviewed in October Fall applications reviewed in February

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. This includes having the support of a faculty supervisor before you apply.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Natural Resources Management reviews applications in March - June.

After the annual application deadline (see below), applications are reviewed on a committee basis by the Faculty of Social Work internal admissions committee. Once this process is complete, decisions are sent to all applicants in March / April. 

Applications open  July 1 of year prior to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Social Work reviews applications in March / April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Music reviews Fall term applications in December / January, and Winter term applications in July.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Occupational Therapy reviews applications in May / June.

Master of Occupational Therapy regular program  applications open September 15 of the year prior to deadline .

Master of Occupational Therapy accelerated program  applications open October 1  of the year prior to deadline .

The name of your confirmed supervisor is required at the time of application. To identify a prospective thesis research supervisor on your application, please  contact Immunology Faculty members .

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Community Health Sciences reviews applications in March / April.

Fall 2025 applications are currently closed.

The name of your preferred supervisor is required at time of application.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Students selected for in-person interview will be notified in February.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Physician Assistant Studies reviews applications in April.

Offers of admission will be released to successful applicants on May 17, 2024 from the University of Manitoba Master of Physician Assistant Studies, the same day as the University of Toronto BScPA Program and McMaster University Physician Assistant Education Program. The three institutions are pleased to provide applicants their offers on the same day to help with the decision-making process.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pharmacology and Therapeutics reviews applications one month after the application deadline.

Applications for Pathology MSc are reviewed on a  rolling basis .

Applications for Pathologist Assistant are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pathologist Assistant reviews applications in April / May. 

The Pathologist Assistant program only admits Canadian and US students every two years. The Fall 2023 intake has been suspended. The next intake is tentatively scheduled for Fall 2025.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Statistics reviews applications in March / April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Biological Sciences reviews applications one month after deadline.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Indigenous Studies reviews applications in February and June.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. For those who wish to be considered for scholarships, applications must be received by January 15 of the year in which you're seeking admission.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions Committee for Applied Human Nutrition reviews applications in February.

Les demandes d’admission sont évaluées par un comité . Le comité d’admission évalu les demandes durant les mois de Mars et Avril.  

Les demandes peut être surmise jusqu’à concurrence de 18 mois avant le début de premier trimestre.

Toute demande d’admission en ligne doit être déposée, avec documents à l’appui, au plus tard aux dates indiquées.

Soumettre ou continuer votre application

Department of Pathology

The Department of Pathology teaches pathology to both graduate and postgraduate students in the health sciences, and carries out research across pathology and its allied medical disciplines.

Tuition and fees

Learn about the tuition and fee requirements associated with graduate studies at UM.

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There are a variety of awards and funding options to help you pay for school as a student in the Max Rady College of Medicine.

Academic Calendar

Explore program requirements and detailed descriptions of required and elective courses offered in the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PhD) program.

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Discovery happens here. Join the graduate students and researchers who come here from every corner of the world. They are drawn to the University of Manitoba because it offers the opportunity to do transformational research.

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Explore the Max Rady College of Medicine

For over 125 years, the Max Rady College of Medicine has contributed to education, research and clinical service. Western Canada’s first medical school, the College develops qualified medical graduates who distinguish themselves through excellence in clinical care, health system innovation and leadership, and internationally recognized research.

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With over 140 graduate programs across multiple faculties, schools and colleges, the University of Manitoba offers more learning, teaching and research opportunities than any other post-secondary institution in the province.

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Admission and application inquiries.

Faculty of Graduate Studies Room 500 UMSU University Centre 65 Chancellors Circle University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus) Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

[email protected]  

Phone: 204-474-9377

Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program inquiries

Department of Pathology 401 Brodie Centre 727 McDermot Avenue University of Manitoba Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5

[email protected] Phone: 204-789-3212 Fax: 204-789-3931

School of Graduate Studies

Laboratory medicine, program overview.

The Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (LMP), in close collaboration with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN), is offering a two-year, full-time professional master’s graduate program ( Master of Health Science degree) to educate clinical laboratory medicine scientists in one of two fields in Laboratory Medicine: Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) or Clinical Embryology (CE).

Quick Facts

Master of health science, program description.

The Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Laboratory Medicine is a two-year professional (coursework and practicum) master’s degree designed to educate and train highly skilled health laboratory scientists in one of two fields: Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) or Clinical Embryology (CE) . The program imparts general core knowledge and skills and the specific basic and applied principles of anatomic pathology or of assisted reproductive technology (ART) required to work as laboratory scientists. These principles are the foundation upon which PAs or CEs develop fundamental applied and practical knowledge and skills to function as competent, high-quality clinical scientists.

The nature of this graduate program equips trainees to apply their knowledge to complex decision making, to serious ethical issues, and to develop a strong sense of personal accountability and intellectual rigour and independence.

Minimum Admission Requirements

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology's additional admission requirements stated below.

Admission is based on demonstrated exceptional scholarly achievement, using the following criteria:

One-page statement summarizing how this program will contribute to the advancement of the applicant's professional goals, identifying their field of preference.

Curriculum vitae (CV).

Two letters of reference, one of which should be familiar with the applicant’s scholarly activities.

Applicants must have an appropriate four-year BSc degree in the life sciences or equivalent from a recognized university, with an average of at least B+ in the last two years of full-time study. Applicants must have a demonstrated interest in human biological and life sciences, preferably with a major or specialist program in the life sciences. Applicants must have completed at least one university-level course in each of the following disciplines: human physiology, human biology, mathematics, and chemistry. Courses in human anatomy, biostatistics, and biomedical research are desirable but not mandatory. (See amendment made on October 6, 2023.)

All potential students will be interviewed prior to final acceptance into the program. The initial selection of students will be based on a combination of their academic record, individual statement, and letters of reference. These students will be asked to participate in an interview with the program coordinator to determine the fit with the program and student’s goals.

Applicants who were educated outside Canada, whose primary language is not English and who graduated from a university where the language of instruction and examination was not English, must demonstrate proficiency in the English language through the successful completion of the following tests:

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with the following minimum required scores: Internet-based TOEFL: 100/120 and 22/30 on the writing and speaking sections.

International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) required score: 8.0 (Academic) with at least 6.5 for each component.

Certificate of English Proficiency (COPE) with the following minimum required scores: 86 total with 22 on the listening component, 22 on the reading component, and 32 on the writing component.

School of Continuing Studies, University of Toronto, Academic English course . Required score: a final grade of B in Level 60 (Advanced).

Program Requirements

Field: clinical embryology.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 9.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

3.5 FCEs taken by all students:

LMP2000H Cell and Molecular Biology (0.5 FCE)

LMP2001H Biomedical Research Methods (0.5 FCE)

LMP2002H Clinical Laboratory Management (0.5 FCE)

LMP2003H Biomedical Ethics (0.5 FCE)

LMP2004H Biostatistics (0.5 FCE)

LMP2005Y 0 Capstone Project in Laboratory Medicine (1.0 FCE)

4.0 FCEs specific to this field:

LMP2100H Advanced Reproductive Physiology and Pathology (0.5 FCE)

LMP2102H Foundations in ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) (0.5 FCE)

LMP2103H Reproductive Genetics (0.5 FCE)

LMP2104H Applied Methods in ART (0.5 FCE)

LMP2105H Innovations in ART (0.5 FCE)

LMP2106H Current Topics in Causes and Treatment of Infertility (0.5 FCE)

LMP2107H Applied ART Laboratory Decision Making (0.5 FCE)

MSC1008H Advanced Human Embryology and Teratology (0.5 FCE)

1.5 FCEs of practicum courses

LMP2108H CE Lab Simulation I (0.5 FCE)

LMP2109H CE Lab Simulation II (0.5 FCE)

LMP2110H ART Lab Rotations (0.5 FCE)

0.5 elective FCE chosen from a course offered in LMP or any other graduate department, with approval of the field director.

Students who fail a course will be offered remediation in the form of additional readings and assignments by the course director. If a student fails two courses or the offered remediation, they will be required to repeat the year.

Field: Pathologists' Assistant

2.0 FCEs specific to this field:

LMP2200H Basic Principles in Human Pathobiology and Pathophysiology (0.5 FCE)

LMP2201H Anatomy and Pathology of Organ Systems (0.5 FCE)

LMP2208H Biobanking for Research (0.5 FCE)

LMP2211H Advanced Anatomy Dissection (0.5 FCE)

4.0 FCEs of practicum courses

LMP2202H Practicum in Surgical Pathology I (0.5 FCE)

LMP2203H Practicum in Surgical Pathology II (0.5 FCE)

LMP2204H Practicum in Surgical Pathology III (0.5 FCE)

LMP2205H Practicum in Surgical Pathology IV (0.5 FCE)

LMP2206H Practicum in Autopsy Pathology (0.5 FCE)

LMP2207H Practicum in Forensic Pathology I (0.5 FCE)

LMP2209H Practicum in Surgical Pathology V (0.5 FCE)

LMP2210H Practicum in Surgical Pathology VI (0.5 FCE).

Program Length

6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S)

3 years full-time

0 Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded when completed.

This two-year, course-based program is designed for interprofessional students from diverse backgrounds (such as medicine, life sciences, social sciences, engineering, design, and communications) who want to learn creative problem-solving skills, strategies, and competencies to translate (scientific) knowledge into innovations that improve medicine, health, and care.

Through flexible coursework, team-based, real-world translational challenges, and extensive mentorship and networking, the department facilitates self-directed collaborative “learning by doing”: students gain experience, expertise, and practical insights into development and design processes, regulatory frameworks, and translational networks and strategies to develop, lead, test, and implement innovations. The program’s mission is to challenge students to think differently so that they learn to champion change in their communities and contexts.

This cohort-based program commences in September.

Applicants are admitted on the basis of academic preparation, references, and motivation. All applicants must demonstrate exceptional scholarly achievement and significant research experience.

An appropriate bachelor's (BSc) degree or an MD degree from a recognized university, and academic credentials and background preparation appropriate to the area of study with an A– average in at least three of the four years.

Applicants with significant research, industry, or government experience in professional health science or related social science, and/or academic research master’s or PhD are also encouraged to apply.

The application must be accompanied by:

A current curriculum vitae (CV).

A letter of intent or statement of professional goals.

Three letters of reference.

Applicants whose primary language is not English, and who graduated from a university where the language of instruction was not English, must demonstrate proficiency in the English language through the successful completion of the following English-language proficiency tests:

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): a minimum score of 600 on the paper-based test and 5 on the Test of Written English (TWE); or a minimum score of 93/120 on the Internet-based test and 22/30 on the writing and speaking sections.

Tests must be completed in the year prior to application to the program.

Deadline for receipt of applications is May 1 for international students and June 1 for domestic students. Admission spots are limited; not all applicants who meet the prerequisites will be admitted. Applicants are screened for eligibility and short-listed applicants will be interviewed.

Within this two-year, five-session program, students must complete a total of 8.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

LMP2300Y Foundations in Translational Research (1.0 FCE, Fall and Winter)

LMP2320H Overview of Methods in Practices and Contexts (0.5 FCE; Winter)

LMP2322H Information, Media, and Communication Literacy for the Sciences (0.5 FCE, Fall)

LMP2301Y Projects in Translational Research (1.0 FCE, Fall and Winter)

LMP2330Y + Capstone Project in Translational Research (2.0 FCEs, Summer).

Years 1 and 2:

2.0 FCEs: eight modular courses (0.25 FCE each).

LMP2330Y + Capstone Project in Translational Research (Fall and Winter)

1.0 elective FCE with approval from the Program Director.

5 sessions full-time (F/W/S/F/W)

+ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

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Medical Science

Doctor of Philosophy

Thesis-based program

Program overview.

For over 40 years the graduate program in Medical Science has prepared students for independent scientific careers in academic and non-academic settings. Graduates of the doctoral program have a strong record of excellence in obtaining post-doctoral positions often leading to faculty appointments or jobs in industry at leading institutes across Canada and around the world.

One of the University of Calgary's largest graduate programs, Medical Science offers specializations ranging from cancer biology and critical care to molecular and medical genetics (but training is not limited to these specialties). Our program is supported by collaborations with related programs throughout the Cumming School of Medicine and the University of Calgary.

Completing this program

Courses:  Topics will be determined according to the student's research area.

Research Ethics:  Students are required to attend Research Integrity Day sessions in the first year of their program.

Seminars: Students will participate in a research in progress semina and journal club relevant to their program.

Research Proposal:  Students must defend a written research proposal to their supervisory committee.

Candidacy: Students will complete both oral and written candidacy exams.

Thesis:  Students will be required to submit and defend an original research thesis.

Specializations

• Cancer Biology
• Critical Care Medicine
• Joint Injury & Arthritis Research
• Biomedical Ethics
• Molecular & Medical Genetics
• Mountain Medicine and High Altitude Physiology

Academic researchers, education, medicine, government agencies, health organizations, and the private sector/industry; biotechnology start-up companies, clinical trials, research-oriented positions in pharmaceutical/biotech companies and Fortune 500 businesses.

A PhD in medical science is usually considered a final degree; many graduates pursue post-doctoral research.

Students are required to prepare a thesis and successfully defend in an open oral defense.

Three courses

Learn more about program requirements in the Academic Calendar

Classroom delivery

Time commitment.

Four years full time; six years maximum

A supervisor is required; potential supervisors must be listed when applying to the program

See the Graduate Calendar for information on  fees and fee regulations,  and for information on  awards and financial assistance .

Virtual Tour

Explore the University of Calgary’s (UCalgary) Foothills Campus from anywhere. Experience all that the Cumming School of Medicine has to offer for interested prospective graduate students. Explore this state of the art campus from wherever you are. Discover the buildings, student services and available programs all from your preferred device.

Supervisors

Learn about faculty available to supervise this degree.

Jean Addington

Herman Barkema

Cheryl Barnabe

Kathryn Birnie

Janice Braun

Linda Carlson

Kris Chadee

Carla Coffin

Alastair Cribb

Admission Requirements

A minimum of 3.3 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the past two years of full-time study (a minimum of 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units) of the undergraduate degree.

Minimum education

An MSc or other relevant Master's degree.

Work samples

Reference letters, test scores, english language proficiency.

An applicant whose primary language is not English may fulfill the English language proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL ibt)  score of 105.
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)  score of 7.5 (minimum of 6.0 in each section)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE)   score of 75, or higher (Academic version).
• Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL)  score of 70 (minimum 70 in each section)  
• Academic Communication Certificate (ACC)  score of A- in each course.
• Cambridge C1 Advanced or Cambridge C2 Proficiency  minimum score of 200.
• Duolingo English Test  and obtaining a minimum score of 145* (with no sub-score below 125*). ( temporary until Fall 2024 intake )

For admission on May 1:

• Canadians and permanent residents: Mar. 1 application deadline
• International students: Dec. 1 application deadline

For admission on Sept. 1

• Canadians and permanent residents: June 1 application deadline
• International students: Apr. 1 application deadline

For admission on Jan. 1

• Canadians and permanent residents: Oct. 1 application deadline
• International students: Aug. 1 application deadline

If you're not a Canadian or permanent resident, or if you have international credentials, make sure to learn about international requirements

Are you ready to apply?

Learn more about this program, medical science - graduate studies.

Health Sciences Centre, HSC G341C 3330 Hospital Drive NW Calgary, AB T2N 4N1

Contact the Graduate Program Administrator

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Health Sciences Centre Foothills Campus, University of Calgary Calgary, AB T2N 4N1

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Related programs

If you're interested in this program, you might want to explore other UCalgary programs.

Thesis-based MSc

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Biomedical technology.

Course-based MBT

Cardiovascular and Respiratory Sciences

Community health sciences, gastrointestinal sciences, microbiology and infectious diseases, neuroscience, pathologists' assistant.

Course-based MDPA

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Medical Laboratory Science

Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in research or biotechnology, considering entering a health profession, or looking to advance your career as a medical laboratory technologist, the Medical Laboratory Science program could be for you. Gain practical lab experience and knowledge in a broad range of health science subjects, while developing crucial transferrable skills.

Why this program?

• Small class sizes
• Learn from award-winning researchers, clinicians, and instructors
• High acceptances rates into graduate school, medical school, dental school, and more
• Career options in a wide range of health science fields

Program information

• Campus: Vancouver
• Length 2 yrs
• Co-op No You can combine your studies with full-time, paid work at top local and international organizations.
• Honours No You can study intense specialization in a single field.

Medical Laboratory Science is the study of the scientific principles underlying disciplines practised in hospital and medical research laboratories, including toxicology, hematology, histology, tissue culture, molecular biology, biochemistry, medical microbiology, human physiology, clinical chemistry, genetics, immunology, parasitology, cytology, and instrumental analysis.

You’ll enter the program in your third year of study and spend two years learning the theory and practical laboratory skills needed to design and implement experiments and analyze the results. The curriculum bridges numerous fields of health science study, enabling you to work across interdisciplinary boundaries.

Experiential learning and research

As a Medical Laboratory Science student, you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience in a variety of lab techniques. You’ll also learn higher-order skills related to experimental design, critical thinking, giving and receiving feedback, presentation delivery, discussion facilitation, and strategies for effective teamwork.

If you’re interested in pursuing a research career, you have the option of completing a directed studies research project with faculty members in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine .

Campus features

The Medical Laboratory Science program is located in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at UBC Hospital on the Vancouver campus. As a student in the program, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit other spots, including the BC Centre for Disease Control , the William Boyd Museum of Pathology , and clinical hospital laboratories.

Life at UBC's Vancouver campus

As a Medical Laboratory Science student, you'll study at UBC Hospital, become familiar with the health care environment, and be taught by faculty members from clinical and research sites throughout the Lower Mainland health authorities.

Your future

As a Medical Laboratory Science graduate, you’ll be prepared for a variety of science-based careers, including those in industry research and development (e.g., with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies) and academia. For graduates who were previously certified Medical Laboratory Technologists, the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLSc) degree can aid in career advancement. Many BMLSc graduates go on to further studies in medical, dental, and other health professional programs; thesis-based graduate programs (e.g., MSc or PhD); or graduate management programs (e.g., Master of Health Administration).

Program graduates

• Associate Histotechnologist, Wax-it Histology Services
• Research Coordinator, Hematology Research Program, UBC Division of Hematology, Vancouver General Hospital
• Clinical Research Assistant, Laboratory Program, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
• Senior Program Coordinator, Social Diversity for Childcare Foundation
• Research Assistant/Technician 2, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics
• Administrator/Client Services Associate, ALS Laboratories

UBC stories "Although I knew I was interested in going into research, I had a very narrow view of research as a career and was unsure what role I wanted to play. I had this impression that being a scientist meant it was important for me to solidify a single theme, get very skilled in a single area, and only work on that for the rest of my life. Over the course of my studies, I was exposed to a huge variety of subfields and skills in medicine." Lily Takeuchi, Medical Laboratory Science Read the full story

Related programs

You’ll find these pages helpful, medical laboratory science: is it the right program for you, ready to choose your degree.

• Master of Science in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (MSc)
• Graduate School
• Prospective Students
• Graduate Degree Programs

Canadian Immigration Updates

Applicants to Master’s and Doctoral degrees are not affected by the recently announced cap on study permits. Review more details

Go to programs search

The UBC Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine offers a remarkable opportunity to study with numerous world renowned faculty and research programs. We are recognized as national and international leaders in both basic and clinical research. Experimental Pathology refers to research in any area of biomedical investigation that is relevant to human disease. Since it is necessary to understand the normal working of the system to fully define the changes associated with disease, the areas represented at UBC cover a wide range of fields and approaches. Work at all levels of biological organization is involved, from protein to lipoprotein biochemistry and molecular biology through cell and tumour biology, animal models for studies on pulmonary and cardiovascular pathophysiology and viral and bacterial infection processes, to clinical studies on human population and the AIDS epidemic.

We train students with varied backgrounds in science and medicine including: biochemistry, physiology, cell biology and microbiology/immunology.

We are committed to effective, cutting-edge, ethical research. The results of which will reach beyond the academic realm to effect positive change in the lives of our families, communities and, ultimately, our world.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, 1) check eligibility, minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.0

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is required by some applicants. Please check the program website.

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2024 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, january 2025 intake, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Master of Science in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (MSc)

Citizenship verification.

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

All full-time students who begin a UBC-Vancouver MSc program in January 2023 or later will be provided with a funding package of at least $26,000 for each of the first two years of their MSc. The funding package may consist of any combination of internal or external awards, teaching-related work, research assistantships, and graduate academic assistantships. In addition, the Program provides tuition funding of $2,000.00 per year for each of the first two years of the MSc. Please note that some graduate programs provide funding packages that are greater than $26,000 total per year. Please check with your prospective graduate program for specific details of the funding provided to its MSc students.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Options

An Experimental Pathology degree opens up a world of opportunities. Because of the multidisciplinary nature of our program, graduates are working on research all over the world that is personalized to their interests. Our alumni have gone on to become national and international opinion leaders, valued staff researchers and administrators in academia or the biotechnology industry, studied clinical medicine or dived into the venture capital and equities domain.

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Master of Science in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (MSc). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion rates & times.

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Allard, Michael (Control of energy metabolism in normal and pathologic hearts; Physiologic and Pathologic Cardiac hypertrophy; Contribution of Metabolism to myocardial dysfunction after ischemia and reperfusion, especially in the setting of cardiac hypertrophy; Cardiovascular Pathology)
• Aparicio, Samuel (Breast cancer, genome sequencing )
• Bally, Marcel Bertran (Pancreas centre)
• Bennewith, Kevin (Oncology; Molecular Pathology & Cell Biology; Cancer research; Solid tumour microenvironment; Hypoxia; Metastasis research; Pre-metastatic niche; Targeting hypoxic tumour cells in therapy; Radiation biology)
• Churg, Andrew (Lung disease)
• Cote, Helene (HIV Infection, blood research, infectious diseases)
• Daugaard, Mads (Cancer progression and metastasis; Mechanisms of carcinogenesis; Cancer Diagnosis and Detection; Cancer biology; Cancer diagnostics; Cancer therapy; Cell Signaling and Cancer; Cell Therapy of Cancer; Chemotherapy; DNA damage response pathways; glycobiology; Immunotherapy; Radiotherapy; Cell stress and Cancer; Cell stress signalling in cancer)
• Devlin, Angela (Human nutrition and dietetics; Human reproduction and development sciences; Pathology (except oral pathology); cardiovascular disease; Children; developmental programming; Diabetes; Obesity)
• Gao, Zu-Hua
• Granville, David (Autoimmunity; Medical molecular engineering of nucleic acids and proteins; Proteases; Granzymes; Extracellular matrix; Chronic inflammation; Aging; Disease models; Autoimmune disease; Skin; Vascular biology)
• Hirsch-Reinshagen la, Veronica
• Huntsman, David (hereditary cancer, molecular pathology, cancer biomarkers, Pancreas centre)
• Karsan, Aly (Hematological tumours; Cancer molecular targets; Leukemia; Hematopoiesis; Genomics and epigenomics; Noncoding RNAs; Aging)
• Kizhakkedathu, Jayachandran (Medical and biomedical engineering; Pathology (except oral pathology); Biomaterials; Blood Coagulation; Cell-surface Engineering; Implants and Medical Devices; Iron Chelators; Macromolecular Therapeutics; Polymers; Proteomics Tools; Thrombosis)
• Klein Geltink, Ramon (Pathology (except oral pathology); Metabolism; Immunotherapy; Cell Signaling and Infectious and Immune Diseases; Auto-Immune Diseases; Cell Therapy of Cancer; Adoptive cellular therapy; Immunometabolism; T cell function)
• Krajden, Mel (Infectious diseases, cancer hepatitis prevention and care, human papillomavirus HPV, HIV and hepatitis C virus)
• Krystal, Gerald (Blood research, immunology, inflammation, effect of diet on cancer )
• Lam, Wan (Cancer progression; Genome biology; Epigenetics; Molecular Systems Biology; Lung Cancer; Technology Development)
• Lan, James (Kidneys and Urinary System; Histocompatibility; Immunogenetics)
• Laule, Cornelia (Medical physics; Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Pathology (except oral pathology); Auto-Immune Diseases; Axons; brain; Central Nervous System Inflammatory Diseases; Cerebral Atrophy; Histology; image analysis; Imaging; Inflammation; magnetic resonance imaging; Magnetic resonance spectroscopy; multiple sclerosis; myelin; Nervous System Development; Neurodegenerative diseases; Neurological diseases; Neuronal Systems; pain; Pathology; Schizophrenia; Spinal Cord Diseases; spinal cord; Spinal cord injury)
• Lockwood, William (Cancer progression and metastasis; Cancer drug development and therapeutics; Mechanisms of carcinogenesis; Cancer; drug discovery; Genetics; genomics; Immune response; Lung cancer; Oncogene signaling; Proteomics; Mouse models)
• Luo, Honglin (Basic medicine and life sciences; Viral Infections; Cardiomyopathy; Innate immunity; Central Nervous System Inflammatory Diseases; Enteroviral infection and neurodegeneration; Oncolytic virus; Protein quality control in cardiac remodeling; RNA viruses)
• Mackenzie, Ian (Alzheimer's Disease)
• Nielsen, Torsten (Clinical oncology; Pathology (except oral pathology); Biomarker development; Breast Cancer; Cancer Diagnosis and Detection; Cancer of the Musculoskeletal System; Clinical trials; Epigenomics; Experimental Therapeutics; Immuno-oncology; Tissue-based diagnostic technologies; Translational research; Genetically engineered mouse models)
• Park, Yongjin (Other basic medicine and life sciences; High dimensional data analysis; Biostatistical methods; Bioinformatics; single-cell genomics; Computational Biology; Causal inference; Bayesian machine learning)

Open Research Positions

• Master Student in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
• MSc Positions in Pathology & Laboratory Medicine at the University of British Columbia

Sample Thesis Submissions

• Purine catabolism as a modulator of macrophage activation
• Patient and care partner experiences with Alzheimer's disease cerebrospinal fluid biomarker testing
• Investigating molecular mechanisms of dedifferentiation and mutations in dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma
• Using light sheet microscopy to investigate the role of apolipoprotein e4 in traumatic vascular injury
• Mutation of tryptophan residues in the binding site of novel therapeutics for prostate cancer
• The development of an anti-thrombotic and anti-inflammatory coating for medical devices
• The role of cytosolic calreticulin in the promotion of oncogenic signaling in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
• Safety assessment of a novel implantable optical sensor designed to monitor spinal cord hemodynamics and oxygenation
• The impact of chronic and latent viral infections on aging in people living with HIV
• Free tissue transfer monitoring using a novel near infrared spectroscopy system
• Granzyme B : a novel therapeutic target for radiation dermatitis
• Exploration of rare mitochondrial DNA mutations in lymphocyte subsets of people living with human immunodeficiency virus
• Characterization of SNF2 histone linker PHD RING helicase as a tumor suppressor gene in lung adenocarcinoma
• The role of Glut1 in glucose-restricted CD8+ T cells
• Mitochondrial DNA mutations and interruptions in combination antiretroviral therapy : a retrospective cohort study

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PhD)

Further Information

Specialization.

Experimental Pathology refers to research in any area of biomedical investigation that is relevant to human disease. Since it is necessary to understand the normal working of the system to fully define the changes associated with disease, the areas represented at UBC cover a wide range of fields and approaches. Work at all levels of biological organization is involved, from protein to lipoprotein biochemistry and molecular biology through cell and tumour biology, animal models for studies on pulmonary and cardiovascular pathophysiology and viral and bacterial infection processes, to clinical studies on human population and the AIDS epidemic.

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Program website, faculty overview, academic unit, program identifier, classification, social media channels, supervisor search.

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

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Find out how Vancouver enhances your graduate student experience—from the beautiful mountains and city landscapes, to the arts and culture scene, we have it all. Study-life balance at its best!

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The aim of the one-year Graduate Diploma program is to bridge undergraduate and advanced graduate training, develop and expand the student’s research skills, and facilitate developing tomorrow’s scientists who will make significant contributions in the advancement towards the understanding of disease. Students in the Graduate Diploma program carry out mentored, intensive basic science research in the laboratory of a graduate faculty member.

• Diploma Project Catalogue

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

Study permit information is changing quickly, and Western University continues to monitor the impact on our graduate programs as new information is processed and implemented at the provincial and institutional level. Graduate Diploma (GDip) program applicants are affected by the Government’s cap on study permits , and we are unable to issue offers of admission for international applicants to our Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Graduate Diploma program for the foreseeable future. Up-dates will be provided as they become available. Goverment of Canada Link

Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Dental Sciences Building, Rm. 4044 London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1 Tel: 519.661.2030 Privacy | Web Standards | Terms of Use | Accessibility

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Medical Laboratory Science Program

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Home › Programs › Medical Laboratory Science Program

-->Program at a glance:

Credential Earned: Advanced Diploma

Program Length: 7 Semesters across 3 years (Full-time)

Program Delivery: On site with online components

Start Date: September 2024

Application Deadline: February 1, 2024

Program Code: MICH ML111

About the Program

Collaborative, hands-on learning within a simulated clinical lab

From day one, students in the Medical Laboratory Science program are immersed in a collaborative, hands-on environment simulating a clinical lab setting. Michener’s affiliation with UHN has helped to further its goal of providing students with the most cutting-edge medical equipment and access to clinical expertise. Michener’s laboratories are equipped with up-to-date equipment, including a variety of automated lab analyzers, high quality microscopes, double and five-headed microscopes and digital technology to augment student learning. The labs are equipped with multiple analyzers allowing students the opportunity to practice in both small groups and independently.

Graduates are eligible to write the national certification examinations conducted by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Sciences (CSMLS) . Certification qualifies the graduate to work across Canada or for registration with the provincial colleges, such as the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario (CMLTO) , which is a requirement to practice in Ontario.

The Medical Laboratory Science program is accredited by Accreditation Canada . Accreditation is a quality improvement process that ensures educational programs meet national standards and that students acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies for safe and effective care at entry to practice.

Michener Medical Laboratory Science Program in Nova Scotia

“The Med Lab program not only makes us competent MLTs, but it also makes us confident in our ability to work in labs.” — Nicole L. Medical Laboratory Science Student

Take a Medical Laboratory Science Virtual Tour Apply now on ontariocolleges.ca Admission Requirements

About the Profession

Medical laboratory science combines the use of sophisticated instruments and techniques with the application of theoretical knowledge to perform complex procedures on tissue specimens, blood samples and other body fluids. Medical laboratory sciences include laboratory analysis in five different disciplines: Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Histotechnology, Microbiology and Transfusion Science.

Medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) are health professionals who perform laboratory analyses and, in some locations, perform Phlebotomy to obtain samples. MLTs provide laboratory analysis results to physicians who use this information to diagnose and treat patients, as well as monitor and prevent disease.

MLTs make up one of the largest groups of regulated health care professionals in Canada. They practice in hospitals, private or public health laboratories, plus research and educational institutions.

Although MLTs work mostly independently, collaboration and communication with fellow health care professionals is a skill that is emphasized in the Michener program, as is the ability to discuss sensitive test results in a professional and responsible manner.

What Will I Study?

When you enroll in the Medical Laboratory Science program at Michener you will combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on skills development. You will also learn to communicate professionally, work independently and in a team and develop your problem solving and critical thinking skills. You will learn the theory and laboratory analysis in five disciplines and specimen procurement including Phlebotomy.

Please see detailed course descriptions in the Medical Laboratory Science Curriculum page.

Clinical Education

Length: 20 weeks Start: September End: February

You will be assigned to clinical placement site(s) through Michener’s Office for Clinical Education. Most students will start in September and finish in February. However, based on clinical site availability, start dates for some students may occur any time after August 1st. This process begins with an information session in the first semester of your program.

As clinical education is a major component of the Medical Laboratory Sciences program, our affiliated clinical sites are integral to your education. They include teaching and community hospitals and private laboratories primarily in Ontario. Working closely under the supervision of medical laboratory technologists, you will have the opportunity to integrate knowledge and skills into practice during the clinical phase of your program. Clinical placements give you hands-on experience in work environments and the opportunity to network with potential employers.

For more information about Clinical Education, please see Michener’s Clinical Education Model page.

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What Premed Students Should Know About Emerging Fields of Medical Research

Aspiring physician-scientists should bone up on areas such as gene editing, nanotechnology and regenerative medicine.

Premeds and Emerging Medical Research

Getty Images | Image Source

If you find a field that interests you, don't hesitate to join a like-minded laboratory while training.

Premedical students aspiring to become physician-scientists will be tasked with navigating emerging fields in research and translating exciting discoveries into the clinical realm. Understanding the latest trends and breakthroughs in biomedical science is paramount for those hoping to bridge the gap between such cutting-edge research and clinical practice – a career goal for many aspiring physician-scientists.

What are these emerging fields, what should aspiring physician-scientists – including those applying to combined M.D.-Ph.D. programs – know about getting involved in these fields, and are there any pitfalls? 

This is an extraordinarily exciting time in scientific research, with recent breakthroughs in diverse fields such as gene editing, immunotherapies, nanotechnology, precision medicine, machine learning and regenerative medicine. Highlights run the gamut of the biomedical spectrum, including evolutionary genomics, novel neurotechnology, advances in cardiovascular imaging, cell-based therapies and therapeutic manipulation of the microbiome, to name a few.

Aspiring physician-scientists will undoubtedly be tempted to ride this wave of exciting discoveries and join laboratories moving the needle in these fields, many of which are still in their infancy. 

Premed students should be aware of these emerging fields, as these advances are expected to contribute increasingly to health care throughout the coming decades and will undoubtedly remain important for the duration of a lengthy career in medicine .

These fields are likely to hold long-term career opportunities for students interested in biomedical research. They also represent opportunities to contribute to innovation, be involved in groundbreaking discoveries and help shape the future of science and medicine.

Many emerging fields are exciting in part due to new or newly appreciated applications to clinical practice, with direct implications for patient care . By understanding these emerging fields, premed students will remain informed and up to date regarding novel treatment paradigms, new diagnostic tools and different preventive strategies that could benefit their future patients. 

Students’ research interests often evolve during undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate education. Many fascinating fields of biomedical science are neither new nor well known, and they deserve serious consideration. You will have multiple opportunities to change fields should your interests diverge at any point, so you should not feel locked in to the discipline of your first research experience.

However, if you do have a genuine intellectual interest in a popular scientific field at an early phase of training, don’t hesitate to join such a like-minded laboratory. 

Finding a Laboratory in Emerging Research Fields

If you are a premed student interested in an exciting field like cancer immunotherapy, genomics, AI-enabled precision medicine , etc., you may struggle to understand which laboratories would be appropriate and rewarding to join and a good fit for your career goals.

To start, assess the research landscape at your home institution through departmental web pages and note which faculty in your field of interest are involved in active research projects. Get in touch with a few faculty members and discuss the possibility of joining their laboratory.

As you learn about their research projects, you can also ask if they know of other labs in the same field that may also be of interest. Often, research faculty themselves are the best resource for understanding the current research landscape of the university, as departmental web pages and related resources can be out of date. 

Departmental administrators or undergraduate research coordinators may also be quite helpful in finding a lab in a specific area that would be a good fit for an undergraduate student. If you read a lay press article – especially from a local publication – about an area of exciting, “hot” science, pay attention to which studies and researchers they reference or quote. These investigators are often leading voices in the field. 

Use PubMed to find the latest work in a field or by a specific investigator. Explore the "trending articles" section to see which articles have had recent activity – a sign of a field gaining broad interest. If you find investigators doing work that is particularly interesting to you, use the "saved searches" function to get updates about their work directly in your email inbox. 

Appreciate that emerging fields are often a result of novel collaboration across disparate disciplines such as distinct subfields in biology and medicine, biomedical engineering or computer science .

Application of a known technology to a new field can also yield exciting advancements. A recent example is cryo-EM-mediated determination of complex structures, such as ligand-bound receptors, which could not previously be accurately determined.

Look for labs that are working in an interdisciplinary manner to tackle an important question in medicine or biology, and you are likely to find stimulating research in an important emerging field. 

Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid presuming that only well-known fields with significant popularity and press attention are the only interesting domains of scientific research. The biggest discoveries often come from unpredictable places, and their genesis can be traced to less well-known fields.

Recent high-profile examples include prokaryotic genomics that spawned CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing, and nucleoside modifications that advanced mRNA vaccines. This is characteristic of biomedical research and should lead you to explore various fields and meet with a variety of investigators to find the field, research and lab that most interest you. 

A few exceedingly popular fields – such as microbiome research, cancer immunotherapy , etc. – run the risk of becoming oversaturated, with many excellent investigators trying to solve similar problems. These fields can thus become quite competitive, with several associated challenges.

If you do join a competitive field, look for opportunities to do novel work that can separate your project from the rest of the crowd. A good strategy when selecting a laboratory is to assess which researchers are pushing the boundaries in these fields and are looking to incorporate interdisciplinary approaches, as they are more likely to be working in their own lane, away from other investigators. Use the same approach when selecting a project within your lab.

Medical School Application Mistakes

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Need a guide through the murky medical school admissions process? Medical School Admissions Doctor offers a roundup of expert and student voices in the field to guide prospective students in their pursuit of a medical education. The blog is currently authored by Dr. Ali Loftizadeh, Dr. Azadeh Salek and Zach Grimmett at Admissions Helpers , a provider of medical school application services; Dr. Renee Marinelli at MedSchoolCoach , a premed and med school admissions consultancy; Dr. Rachel Rizal, co-founder and CEO of the Cracking Med School Admissions consultancy; Dr. Cassie Kosarec at Varsity Tutors , an advertiser with U.S. News & World Report; Dr. Kathleen Franco, a med school emeritus professor and psychiatrist; and Liana Meffert, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Iowa's Carver College of Medicine and a writer for Admissions Helpers. Got a question? Email [email protected] .

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Violeshia Greene, MS/MLS ’24  MS in Medical Laboratory Science

Violeshia Greene’s journey into health care began in middle school, where she discovered her calling while caring for her grandmother. The innate sense of responsibility she felt during those moments ignited a passion for helping others that would shape her career path.

Initially considering careers as a dental hygienist, nurse, or doctor, Greene realized her introverted nature suited a role where she could make a significant impact behind the scenes. This realization led her to the medical laboratory profession , where she found fulfillment and purpose.

“I love the medical laboratory profession and I can’t see myself in any other field,” Greene said. “I desire to bring awareness to the medical laboratory science profession. We are a hidden profession, yet we are very much needed in the healthcare industry.”

“That’s one reason I chose PCOM,” Greene added. “The post-professional route of the program gave me an advantage to gain more insight about the profession and accommodated my full-time job.”

She draws inspiration from her parents, who have consistently supported and guided her, instilling in her a deep sense of faith and resilience.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Greene finds joy in a variety of hobbies, including reading, writing, playing basketball, tennis, playing the flute, and dancing.

As she approaches graduation, Greene offers words of encouragement to her peers: “Keep going, and don't give up.”

She finds resonance in Maya Angelou's wisdom, “You can only become truly accomplished at something you love. Don’t make money your goal. Instead pursue the things you love doing and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off of you.”

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Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Laboratory Medicine

Applications are now closed.

You can apply October - March each year.

• Number of spaces available: 10 overall – 5 Pathologists' Assistants (PA) , 5 Clinical Embryologists (CE)
• Program length: Two years 
• Session dates: September 1 - August 31
• Program structure: Course work, tutorials as well as hospital and lab site rotations (PA)/ Clinical Embryology Skills Development Lab (CE)
• Evaluation methods: course work, quizzes, tests, practical assessment 
• Program Director: Dr. Avrum I. Gotlieb
• Program Field Director - PA field:   Dr. Fang-I Lu 
• Program Field Director - CE field:  Dr. Heather Shapiro
• Qualification gained: Master of Health Science

See our statement about Education during COVID-19

The Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology (LMP), in close collaboration with the  Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology  (OB/GYN), is offering a two year, full-time professional Master’s graduate program (Master of Health Science degree) to educate clinical laboratory medicine scientists in one of two fields in Laboratory Medicine:  

• Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) or  
• Clinical Embryology (CE)  

This unique program will train you, not only in the practical aspects of laboratory work in these fields, but also in critical thinking and research skills so you can play a part in advancing these fields of laboratory medicine. 

See the bottom of this page for a recording from our information evening.

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We accepted our first students in the fall of 2020.

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Watch a recording of our information event from January 2024

Mhsc in lab medicine news.

Networking and sharing research: LMPRC is a huge success!

Meet Adryan: Pathologists’ Assistant-in-training on PA Day!

Celebrating International Day for Women in Science 2024 at LMP

Celebrating the people of LMP

Ob-Gyn and LMP faculty publish paper sharing insights and successes of MHSc in Clinical Embryology

LMP holds largest ever research day