PhD Studentships in Cardiovascular Drug Discovery and Vascular Biology at Mercer University

Multiple PhD studentship opportunities are available in the Hasan Laboratory of Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Therapeutics at Mercer University, United States. Led by Dr. Raquibul Hasan, Tenured Associate Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, the lab focuses on cutting-edge research in cardiovascular drug discovery, vascular biology, and translational research. Key research areas include targeting the endothelin system for novel cardiovascular therapeutics, investigating the pleiotropic effects of statins, exploring the gut microbiome-immune axis in cardiometabolic diseases, and understanding drug-resistant hypertension. Applicants should have a strong background in basic signal transduction pathways, vascular biology, and a keen interest in translational research. The program is designed to train students for both academic and industry career paths, emphasizing critical thinking, experimental rigor, and exposure to modern drug discovery approaches. Research projects may involve drug discovery for hypertension, metabolic disorders, and cognitive disorders, with opportunities to contribute to innovative therapeutic strategies. Eligibility requirements include a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field, or a PharmD degree. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and competitive GRE scores (at least 40th percentile verbal, 60th percentile quantitative) are required. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (TOEFL iBT 100 or IELTS 7.5). Prerequisites include calculus, statistics, biochemistry, mammalian physiology, and programming experience. Three academic recommendations and compliance with health and immunization policies are also necessary. Financial support is available through teaching assistantships, tuition waivers, and competitive stipends. Additional funding may be accessible via grants, contracts, and student loans. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for fall, spring, and summer semesters. Interested candidates should submit their CV to Dr. Hasan at [email protected] and review the full admission and scholarship requirements on the program website. For more information about the lab's research, visit the Hasan Laboratory page.