The Clinical Sciences PhD Track of the Biomedical Sciences PhD Program was introduced in 2013 to provide opportunities for veterinarians with an interest in conducting research in translational medicine. Students in the program typically focus on naturally occurring disease models of companion animals (cats, dogs, and horses) to study spontaneous rather than experimentally induced models of diseases. These spontaneous models permit the study of how such factors as genetics, age, and environment impact disease development. Since naturally occurring spontaneous animal diseases mimic those occurring in humans, study of these diseases represent a One Health approach to biomedical research. Examples of naturally occurring disease models in companion animals include cancer, heart valve disease, kidney and liver failure, diabetes mellitus and obesity.<br><br>The overarching goal of the Clinical Sciences PhD Track is to develop the next generation of clinician scientists. Clinician scientists trained in this program will be prepared to join universities or biomedical research companies and use their clinical and research experience to make important contributions to human and veterinary medicine. Individuals completing clinical residency programs are encouraged to apply and PhD students on this track can combine graduate studies with short periods on clinics. Graduate students work with research teams composed of clinicians and basic scientists from other departments and schools. A DVM degree or equivalent is required for admission to the Clinical Sciences PhD Track.