Patricia L. Cameron, PhD
Vice Dean, The Graduate School
(706) 721- 3278
BIOMED@augusta.edu
The Cellular Biology and Anatomy graduate program offers excellent research opportunities covering a broad spectrum of thematic areas. The developmental biologists within our department investigate polarity and patterning in organisms, while other faculty members study mechanisms of protection, repair and regeneration related to diseases of the kidney, musculoskeletal, breast, and visual systems. State-of-the-art genetic, molecular and biochemical tools are employed in diverse in vivo and in vitro systems including mutant mice, zebrafish, Drosophila, and human cells. The department has strong, collaborative ties with many of the research institutes and centers on campus, and offers a rich environment for scientific discovery and dissemination of new knowledge.
There are a number of career opportunities for individuals who have earned a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences with a major in Cellular Biology and Anatomy. Armed with a solid underpinning in the fundamentals of cell biological approaches to organisms, students are attractive to booming industry and biotechnology companies. For those interested in pursuing academic careers that combine research and teaching, students not only build upon their research experience in the lab but also are afforded opportunities for teaching medical students (e.g. serving as teaching assistants in histology, anatomy, and neuroanatomy/neuroscience).
We are delighted that you are exploring our program and look forward to working with you as colleagues.
"Our CBA family welcomes new graduate students to our community. We provide them with effective & individualized mentoring, collegial guidance, and diverse research opportunities. We take great pride in their development and achievements. Join our family." - Yutao Liu, PhD
Biosketch
Dr. Yutao Liu, Associate Professor of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, is a member of
James & Jean Culver Vision Discover Institute (VDI) and the Center for Biotechnology
and Genomic Medicine, at the Medical College of Georgia of Augusta University. Dr.
Liu is the Graduate Program Director in Cellular Biology and Anatomy.
Dr. Liu has mentored dozens of undergraduate, graduate, and medical students in the last two decades. Dr. Liu is a recognized human geneticist with expertise in ocular genetics and functional genomics. His NIH-funded genetics research aims to determine the role of genetic factors in the pathogenesis of two important eye disorders: keratoconus and glaucoma, using comprehensive, advanced genetic/genomic approaches with in vitro cellular and in vivo animal models. He is open-minded, optimistic, supportive, and collaborative. He likes to travel, hike, and play with his family and children.
Yutao Liu, PhD
Program Director
(706) 721-7658
yutliu@augusta.edu
Heather Hoffman
Office Coordinator
(706) 721-3731
hhoffman@augusta.edu
"I chose CBA because of the great collaborative environment. I believe this will be very essential in my next steps after graduate school. Also, all the faculty here are always supportive and willing to help students overcome challenging situations."
"Do not be afraid to ask questions! Some of the best conversations happen by asking a question no matter how simple it may be. I am always learning something new in different disciplines whether from our journal clubs or seminars. I am always starting conversations with my friends by saying 'Did you know?'"