Human Genetics (PhD) at Vanderbilt

Human genetics is a rapidly advancing field at the core of modern biomedical science. From rare disease gene discovery to large-scale studies of common complex traits, genetics provides powerful tools to understand human health, disease, and human variation. Some of the most important challenges in medicine today, such as improving diagnosis, tailoring treatment to individuals, and expanding access to effective care, rely on insights that begin with genetic data.

The Human Genetics PhD Program at Vanderbilt prepares students to lead in this evolving research landscape. The program brings together molecular biology, computational genomics, population health, and translational science within a collaborative and resource-rich environment. Students gain hands-on experience with genomic technologies, work with one of the country’s most established biobanks, and contribute to research that connects biological discovery with clinical relevance.

Vanderbilt is committed to integrated, data-driven science. Researchers here work across disciplines to ask ambitious questions, apply innovative tools, and generate knowledge that improves human health. For PhD students, this creates opportunities to join impactful projects early in their training, supported by faculty and infrastructure that foster both independence and collaboration.

A PhD in Human Genetics at Vanderbilt offers more than advanced training. It offers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful discovery, to develop expertise in a growing and essential field, and to shape the future of medicine through science.

Why VU HGEN

The program is structured to give students both the technical expertise and the research experience needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving field. Key strengths of the training program include:

• Interdisciplinary Training
  Combines molecular biology, computational genomics, and statistical genetics to provide a broad and integrated foundation.

• Access to Real-World Genomic and Clinical Data
  Students work with Vanderbilt’s Synthetic Derivative (SD), a de-identified clinical dataset with records from over 5 million individuals, and the Research Derivative (RD), which provides identified clinical data and links to biospecimens under approved protocols. Vanderbilt’s institutional biobank, BioVU, includes genomic data for over 300,000 participants, offering a rich environment for translational and data-driven research.

• Collaborative Research Across National Genomic Consortia
  The program offers students opportunities to contribute to large-scale, high-impact research through collaborations with the UK Biobank, Million Veteran Program (MVP), All of Us Research Program, eMERGE Network, and other major genomic initiatives. These partnerships expose trainees to diverse populations, advanced analytic methods, and interdisciplinary teams working at the forefront of genomic discovery.

• Strong Mentorship and Career Support
  Structured mentorship model with support for academic publishing, conference presentation, and career development in academia, industry, or applied research.

• Emphasis on Scientific Communication
  Focus on writing, presenting, and communicating complex findings to both scientific and broader audiences.

• Proven Graduate Success
  Alumni go on to successful careers in academic research, biotechnology, genomics, and data-driven roles in healthcare and public health.