Behavioral-Biomedical Interface Program

The Behavioral-Biomedical Interface Program (BBIP) is a special training opportunity at the University of South Carolina funded by a T32 grant from the National Institute for General Medical Sciences (NIH/NIGMS). The purpose of BBIP is to prepare behavioral scientists through their training exposure to biomedical/biological training so that they can contribute effectively to interdisciplinary teams addressing complex biomedical research problems.

BBIP trainees are concurrently working on their Ph.D. degrees in Epidemiology, Exercise Science, or Psychology (Clinical-Community or Experimental). The BBIP review committee considers applications from any individuals who have also concurrently applied to the doctoral program in one of those three departments.

The thematic emphasis of the USC BBIP is on health-related research problems that are linked to prevention science, the developmental sciences (broadly conceived), or both.

BBIP trainees take courses in human genetics, endocrinology, neurosciences, quantitative methods, and research ethics, integrated with their respective disciplinary curricula, and an integrative seminar course on behavioral-biomedical interface issues related to prevention and developmental sciences. The trainees participate in three brief laboratory rotations exposing them to an array of behavioral-biomedical research approaches and techniques. Trainees also attend campus-sponsored colloquia by speakers from around the world. Conference presentations and co-authoring of publications are a standard part of BBIP trainees’ involvement as scientists in training.

Profile of successful candidates for admission to BBIP:

  • Excellent academic record (e.g., undergraduate GPA 3.5 or higher)
  • Competitive scores on the Graduate Record Exam (e.g., Verbal GRE > 550, Quantitative GRE > 550, combined > 1200)
  • Some prior coursework related to biological/biomedical disciplines
  • Strong interest in research in the behavioral and biomedical sciences
  • Plans to pursue a scientific career

Minorities and members of historically under-represented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Applicants must complete the normal graduate school application process as required by the intended academic department as well as the University of South Carolina.

For Exercise Science applicants, a supplemental application must be competed and returned to the Department of Exercise Science.

To ensure full consideration, applicants are encouraged to apply by January 5th.

Contact Information

For more information about BBIP, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact one of the three participating departments.

Program Co-Directors

  • Professor Rosemarie Booze
  • Professor Ron Prinz

 

Columbia, SC 29208 • 803-777-5031 • sphstsrv@mailbox.sc.edu

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