Already a destination for an M.D. and D.M.D., Texas Tech Health El Paso is adding a new doctorate degree to our Borderplex.

This summer, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved a Ph.D. program for the Francis Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.

The first of its kind in our region, the biomedical sciences Ph.D. was the long-held vision of Dean Rajkumar Lakshmanaswamy, Ph.D., and El Paso philanthropists Rick and Ginger Francis. The Francis’s generous $10 million school endowment in 2022 made the program a reality.

"We dreamed of a Ph.D. program that would foster world-class discovery in our backyard. The stage for groundbreaking research that directly benefits the families who live and work along our border is finally here," said Rick Francis.

Keeping Homegrown Talent

For decades, West Texas has faced a higher rate of chronic health issues like diabetes and cancer. There have also been challenges in health care access to treat infectious diseases and neurological conditions. 

In fact, aspiring scientists had to leave the region to pursue specialized training needed to tackle these issues. Thanks to the new Ph.D. program, homegrown, talented researchers will stay and make a difference here. 

The program, which will begin accepting students in 2026, is expected to have a lasting impact. It will attract top researchers and faculty to the area, leading to new discoveries and innovative medical applications that directly benefit local families.