The Department of Biomedical Informatics and Data Sciences is proud to announce the launch of its new Ph.D. program in Biomedical and Health Informatics (BHI-PhD). This interdisciplinary program is positioned to train the next generation of leaders in a rapidly evolving field.
"The BHI-PhD prepares individuals for the development and application of informatics theories and tools to solve problems across the life sciences and health ecosystem," said Jin Chen, Ph.D., FAMIA, vice chair of Education for the department.
A program designed for innovation and impact
The BHI-PhD program emphasizes the development and application of advanced informatics theories and tools to address critical issues in human health and disease.
"This interdisciplinary field blends elements from computer science, statistics, clinical research, and bioinformatics," Chen said. "It emphasizes analyzing and interpreting complex data, as well as developing and disseminating solutions, infrastructure, and algorithms to address human health and disease problems. It serves to distill, refine, and consolidate knowledge in life sciences and health."
Students will develop innovative solutions, infrastructure, and algorithms designed to advance scientific knowledge and improve health outcomes.
One of the program's goals is to create thought leaders and innovators who can bridge the gap between science and application in real-world settings.
Core curriculum and specialized tracks
The BHI-PhD follows a core-track model, ensuring all students gain a strong foundation in biomedical informatics and data science. The core curriculum includes essential courses in research methodologies, machine learning, and the ethical practice of research. Students will also undertake a dissertation research course as a cornerstone of their Ph.D. journey.
From this shared foundation, students can specialize in one of three advanced tracks:
Translational bioinformatics: This track uses computational methods to analyze biological data, bridging bench research and clinical applications. Students will explore bioinformatics algorithms, biological data management, and next-generation sequencing.
Clinical and health informatics: Students in this track will gain expertise in enhancing patient care and healthcare delivery systems through informatics. Courses cover clinical decision-making, health information systems, and technology integration in healthcare.
Artificial Intelligence in medicine: This cutting-edge track trains students to harness AI for transformative healthcare applications. Topics include AI in medical imaging, biomedical signal processing, and developing large language models for medical use.
A vision for the future
The BHI-PhD program highlights the department's commitment to advancing education and research in biomedical informatics and data sciences. The program aims to prepare graduates for impactful careers in academia, industry, and health care by integrating interdisciplinary approaches.
The program received approval from the UAB Board of Trustees and ACHE in spring 2025, with final approval by the Board of Trustees expected in summer 2025. The department plans to open enrollment following the completion of this process.