The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) has launched a cutting-edge Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences, designed to equip graduates with the skills necessary for thriving careers in health professions and scientific research. This comprehensive program integrates essential elements from biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, and mathematical sciences to ensure a well-rounded education.
Dr. Michael Biewer, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry and associate dean for undergraduate education at the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM), emphasized the program’s alignment with UT Dallas’s strengths. He stated, “UT Dallas is a preeminent research institution with tremendous talent in multiple disciplines. We build on that with this new degree.” He further mentioned that the school is investing in hiring additional expert faculty across its departments, which will enhance students’ educational experiences through coursework and research opportunities in advanced biomedical fields, ultimately making graduates more competitive in professional school applications or the industry.
The addition of respected faculty members is evident, with Dr. Zihao Ou, an assistant professor of physics, and Dr. Tian Hong, an associate professor of biological sciences, joining the faculty this fall. Dr. Ou is recognized as a leader in biomedical optics and imaging—a critical area that promises to advance technological capabilities in biological and medical research. In contrast, Dr. Hong’s research focuses on the application of computational systems biology and bioinformatics to resolve significant biological questions through mathematical principles.
“In our program, students don’t have to choose immediately which track they want to focus on; they can switch direction as needed,” noted Dr. Eberhard Voit, a clinical professor of biological sciences and leader of the degree program’s development committee. He explained that students pursuing medicine might discover a passion for research or data science while in the program. This flexibility within the curriculum can save students time, effort, and financial resources, making it a pragmatic choice.
“Bioinformatics, data analytics, and advanced technology and treatments are increasingly informing modern medicine and opening up new career paths for graduates with interdisciplinary skills. This modern, flexible degree program will give UTD students the chance to explore multiple avenues.”
Dr. David Hyndman, dean of the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Starting in fall 2025, a new undergraduate certificate in biomedical data analytics will be available. The coursework for the certificate is incorporated within the data analytics track of the biomedical sciences degree, meaning students pursuing this track will automatically earn the certificate.
“Students pursuing other degrees at UTD can also enroll in these courses to earn the certificate, significantly enhancing their qualifications and employability,” stated Dr. Pankaj Choudhary, a professor of mathematical sciences and associate dean of graduate studies at NSM, who also contributed to the degree’s development.
Dr. Vladimir Dragovic, professor and department head of mathematical sciences, will supervise the data analytics track and has collaborated closely with the biological sciences faculty to create four new courses tailored for the degree program. “We are big believers in the importance of mathematical sciences and statistics in this new moment, where artificial intelligence and data analytics are contributing significantly to medical science and society,” Dragovic remarked.
NSM offers a diverse array of over 30 undergraduate and graduate programs across areas including biological sciences, chemistry and biochemistry, mathematical sciences, physics, science/mathematics education, and sustainable Earth systems sciences. Notably, nearly 10% of first-year students opted for biology as their major, positioning it as the second most popular choice among UTD freshmen this fall.
“As a school, we recognize that health professions and biomedical sciences encompass multiple fields that span the expertise of our research and teaching,” remarked Dr. David Hyndman, dean of NSM and the Francis S. and Maurine G. Johnson Distinguished University Chair. “Bioinformatics, data analytics, and advanced technology are reshaping modern medicine and creating new career paths for graduates with interdisciplinary skills. This flexible degree program will empower UTD students to explore various opportunities within the biomedical and health sciences landscape.”
Winkler Named Biological Sciences Department Head
Dr. Duane Winkler, an associate professor of biological sciences, has been appointed as the new head of the biological sciences department at The University of Texas at Dallas, effective October 1. He takes over from Dr. Kelli Palmer, who will continue to serve as associate head while returning to teaching and research.
Dr. Winkler holds a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and genetics from Texas A&M University and earned his PhD in biological sciences from the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio. His postdoctoral research, focused on biochemistry, was conducted at Colorado State University, where he also served as an instructor and Howard Hughes Medical Institute research scientist before joining UT Dallas faculty in 2013.
Winkler’s research interests lie in the structure-function relationships and biochemical properties of molecules essential for life. His current projects include developing innovative antimicrobials aimed at combatting the growing threat posed by bacteria that affect critical agricultural plants.
**Interview with Dr. Michael Biewer on the Launch of UT Dallas’s Biomedical Sciences Degree Program**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Biewer. The University of Texas at Dallas has just introduced a new Bachelor of Science in biomedical sciences. Can you tell us more about the motivation behind this program?
**Dr. Biewer:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The motivation for launching the Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences stems from UT Dallas’s commitment to integrating various scientific disciplines and addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in health and research fields. We are leveraging our strengths in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, and mathematical sciences to create a comprehensive program that prepares students for diverse careers.
**Editor:** It sounds very interdisciplinary. How will this program enhance the educational experience for students?
**Dr. Biewer:** The program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to explore different tracks without needing to commit immediately. This approach not only accommodates changing interests but also helps students save time and resources. Additionally, we’re investing in hiring expert faculty across various departments to enrich the students’ learning experience through dedicated coursework and hands-on research opportunities.
**Editor:** Speaking of faculty, you recently welcomed new professors like Dr. Zihao Ou and Dr. Tian Hong. How do their expertise contribute to the program?
**Dr. Biewer:** Both Dr. Ou and Dr. Hong bring invaluable perspectives to our program. Dr. Ou specializes in biomedical optics and imaging, which is critical for advancing technology in medical research. Meanwhile, Dr. Hong focuses on computational systems biology and bioinformatics, applying mathematical principles to tackle significant biological questions. Their combined expertise will give students access to cutting-edge knowledge and research methods.
**Editor:** Flexibility seems to be a key feature of the curriculum. How does this align with the current trends in biomedical fields?
**Dr. Biewer:** Modern healthcare and biomedical research are rapidly evolving, with data analytics, bioinformatics, and advanced technologies playing increasingly vital roles. By offering a flexible curriculum that incorporates these elements, we are preparing students not only for traditional healthcare roles but also for emerging fields that require interdisciplinary skills. Graduates will be equipped to pursue various career paths or further education in medical or graduate programs.
**Editor:** In addition to this new degree, there’s an undergraduate certificate in biomedical data analytics starting in fall 2025. Can you elaborate on that?
**Dr. Biewer:** Yes, the certificate in biomedical data analytics is an exciting addition. It will be seamlessly integrated into the data analytics track of the biomedical sciences degree, allowing students in that track to earn the certificate automatically. Importantly, students from other disciplines can also enroll in these courses, enhancing their qualifications and broadening their employability in our data-driven world.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Biewer, for sharing insights into this innovative program. It’s clear that UT Dallas is set to make a significant impact in the field of biomedical sciences.
**Dr. Biewer:** Thank you for having me! We are thrilled about the opportunities that this program will create for our students and look forward to their contributions to the field.