Pharmacology Education
Train Where It All Began
Founded in 1891, Michigan Pharmacology was the first department of its kind in the United States. In our 130+ year history, we have awarded the largest number of PhDs in Pharmacology.
Welcome to Pharmacology
Pharmacology synthesizes the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, cell biology, physiology, and pathology to create a comprehensive framework for understanding and treating disease. As one of the most exciting and rapidly expanding areas of biomedical research, Pharmacology directly impacts public health through the discovery of new medicines.
Our mission is to train the next generation of pharmacologists for careers in academia, government, biotech, and the pharmaceutical industry, as well as emerging novel careers in which their deep knowledge and expertise provide value.
Our alumni have led the field as pharmaceutical company executives, research directors, senior scientists, directors of government research laboratories, and academic faculty, chairs, deans, and college presidents.
To accomplish our mission, we provide a rigorous but supportive learning environment where trainees receive individual mentorship, career development and placement advice, real world experience, and role models of work-life integration from outstanding faculty and alumni.
The breadth and depth of our synergistic research and training missions are extraordinary. Our diverse group of outstanding faculty partners with trainees to advance new knowledge. This collaboration is key to developing novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of disease within diverse populations.
Education & Training Programs
Student Life & Resources
There are so many ways we support our students and help them to be successful. From professional development to parenthood to disability accommodation, we’re here to help. Find information, funding and programs to help you live and learn at U-M in our Student Life & Resources section.
I could not be more grateful for my training at Michigan Pharmacology. The foundational principles we were taught in our classes overlap perfectly with the knowledge I need to thrive in my current role in Toxicology at Eli Lilly. While successfully navigating a very challenging and competitive job market, there were many times I said to myself "I am so thankful I earned my Ph.D. from Michigan Pharmacology." #TheMichiganDifference
Upcoming Events
Connect with students, faculty and staff during events throughout the year.
Pharmacology Summer Picnic
Pharmacology Retreat
2026 Alumni Steering Committee Meeting Weekend
Pharmacology Holiday Party
Featured News & Stories
Congratulations to Kaitlyn Digsby on being awarded an NRSA grant!
Dr. Ben Clements is ASPET's Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics Highlighted Trainee Author for June 2026
Celebrating outstanding teaching and research at the 2026 Endowment for Basic Sciences Awards