The University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy is seeking highly- motivated pharmacists interested in pursuing advanced training in translational-, clinical-, or outcomes-based research.

The Clinical Pharmaceutical Scientist program (CPS) (link) is a specialized track within the graduate program that teaches students to conduct pharmaceutical research at the interface of the bench and bedside. The Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy Research track (link) teaches students to investigate the impact and outcomes of pharmaceutical products, pharmacy services, and pharmaceutical policies across healthcare systems. Through innovative CPS curricula, students learn the skills necessary to become independent investigators who utilize contemporary research approaches to generate new knowledge applicable to drug exposure and response in humans.

Dissertation research projects link expertise in clinical pharmacotherapy with laboratory techniques, pre-clinical models, and human-based research, to answer mechanistic questions that improve patient health outcomes. POPR students build competencies in pharmacoepidemiology, health services research, manipulation and analysis of large existing healthcare data sources, health policy, and social/behavioral theory to advance knowledge about the safety and effectiveness of medications when used in real world healthcare settings. Upon completion of the curriculum and dissertation, the Master of Science (MS) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is awarded.

Pitt is a recognized leader in training clinical pharmaceutical scientists with over 60 graduates of the program currently in academic, government, healthcare, and pharmaceutical industry positions. Our program offers a truly unique training environment that is incredibly rich in opportunities for learning as our campus is home to 6 schools of the health sciences, the Clinical and Translational Science Institute (NIH CTSA award), the Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), one of the premier academic medical centers in the nation. Ongoing faculty research focus areas include pharmacokinetics/dynamics, pharmacogenomics, implementation science, cardiology, critical care, immunology, infectious disease, medication adherence, nephrology, neurology, oncology, psychiatry, transplantation, and community pharmacy services.

Admitted PhD students receive highly competitive stipends, paid tuition, and health insurance through teaching or research assistantship.

Fall 2025 applicants are encouraged online as soon as possible before the January 3^rd deadline.

Individuals with a prior advanced degree in the health sciences (PharmD or other degree in the health sciences) will be considered for admission. Exceptional, highly motivated students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in science-related fields and a strong interest in clinical research are also encouraged to apply.

About University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy

Founded in 1787, the University of Pittsburgh is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher education. Pitt people have defeated polio, unlocked the secrets of DNA, lead the world in organ transplantation, and pioneered television and heavier-than-air flight, among many other accomplishments.At Pitt, all work supports the inspiring mission of educational excellence, research of impact, and strong community partnership, all alongside a continued commitment to making the workplace better for every member of the University community. With you as a part of the University community, you can discover, belong, contribute, and grow in the best way for you - to help shape your future, and the future of Pitt.Ranked among the top 5 percent of 1,000 universities in 65 countries and in the top 100 most innovative universities in the world, Pitt is home to more than 5,300 full- and part-time faculty, more than 7,200 full and part-time staff, and nearly 800 research and post-doctoral associates. Over 25,200 undergraduate, 7,000 graduate, and 2,000 doctorate students study at our 5 campuses. Our numbers are constantly growing at Pitt!

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