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 to more info on our program) is a specialized track within the graduate program that teaches students to conduct pharmaceutical research at the interface of the bench and bedside. 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. 

The Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy Research track (POPR) (link to more info on our program) teaches students to investigate the impact and outcomes of pharmaceutical products, pharmacy services, and pharmaceutical policies across healthcare systems. 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.

Fall 2026 applicants are encouraged to submit materials as soon as possible
before the January 3th deadline.

Requirements: 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.

Primary Contact:
Philip Empey, PharmD, PhD
Director, Center for Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences
Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics
University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy
pempey@pitt.edu

About University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy / UPMC Presbyterian Hospital

The School of Pharmacy, a leader and innovator in education, practice and research, is one of 16 schools/colleges located on the Oakland campus, which includes the six schools of the health sciences. Pitt Pharmacy ranks #10 among schools of pharmacy in total research funding and is known as an innovator in research, education and practice. Pitt Pharmacy partners with UPMC, one of the leading integrated health care delivery networks in the country, to provide state-of-the-art pharmacy services and patient care. The Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics is integrated with UPMC and together support the leadership and management of pharmacy services as well as clinical programs including Antibiotic Management Program, Ambulatory Care Programs, Medicine, Pharmacogenomics, Palliative Care, Oncology, Transplantation, Critical Care, and Cardiology. The Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics is home to the Grace Lamsam Pharmacy Program for the Underserved. In partnership with UPMC, the department is home to twelve accredited residency programs, plus twelve pharmacy fellowship training programs. For more information about the School of Pharmacy, visit http://www.pharmacy.pitt.edu. Our in...tegration with UPMC Hospitals provides a wonderful environment to excel in teaching, clinical service, and research. The City of Pittsburgh is one of the best cities to live and work. It has been named the "most livable city" at least seven times by multiple sources since 1985.

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