phd in biological education

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Doctorate of Biological Education

• College of Natural and Health Sciences
• Graduate Programs

Contact: Dr. Lauryn Benedict, 970-351-3364 (telephone), [email protected] (e-mail).

University catalogs:   http://unco.smartcatalogiq.com/

Make new discoveries and participate in the creation of novel information with leading educators and scientists at the School of Biological Sciences at UNC!  This unique program leads to a Doctorate of Philosophy degree in Biological Education.  Become a multifaceted scholar and educator with a solid background in biology and teaching of biology by working closely with our faculty to develop and advance your skills in teaching and research.  This degree program is offered at the main UNC campus in Greeley, Colorado.

How does this degree program work?

The degree program specializes in training biologists to be experts in their disciplines and outstanding college biology teachers. This is accomplished through the completion of course work, a dissertation research project, and a supervised teaching experience. Before beginning this program, you should identify a potential faculty research mentor (or mentors) from among the doctora research faculty in the School of Biological Sciences.  Together with your research mentor, you will develop a program of research that focuses on your interests and complements the expertise of the faculty, culminating in the production of the PhD dissertation. All dissertations represent rigorous research in biology or biology education.

In the Ph.D. degree program, you will develop expertise in the concepts, reasoning, and skills of doing science and you will develop expertise in the principles and methods of teaching biology (e.g., pedagogy).  Your training will give you a well-rounded skill-set and the expertise to seek a career as an independent scientist, a college biology teacher, or both!  For this reason, our Ph.D. degree is awarded in the area of Biological Education.  The graduates of our doctoral program have found employment in teaching and research positions.  Many of our students have multiple job offers even before they graduate, and we can do the same for you!

Who is this degree program for?

This degree is appropriate for inquisitive and motivated students who already possess a Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in the sciences and who want the requisite training appropriate for a professional career in teaching, basic and applied research, advocacy, government, biotechnology or other advanced scientific positions. After completing their Ph.D.s, many of our graduates have accepted postdoctoral positions in related fields, academic positions in higher education, and advanced positions in government and private industries. 

Degree requirements

This degree requires completion of 64 credits of study, including both scheduled classes and one-on-one courses tailored to individual needs and programs.  The UNC catalogs contain the official descriptions and requirements of all programs at the University of Northern Colorado. In addition, Ph.D. students are required to develop and teach a full semester course under the supervision of our faculty. The degree culminates with the presentation of the student’s research in a public defense of the dissertation. Chapter(s) from the student’s dissertation are expected to be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Applying to the program

Deadlines, program requirements, and application instructions

In addition to information about yourself and your academic history, applicants are asked to provide letters of recommendation, a CV or resume, and a letter of intent. The following sections offer advice on how to maximize the impact of those documents.

Reference letters

Letters of recommendation (also called letters of reference) are extremely important to your application. Choose the people that you ask to write these letters thoughtfully. Letter writers should be able to comment on your potential for successful graduate work from a position of experience. Typically, they will be academic faculty or work supervisors that have knowledge of your academic or scholarly performance and other attributes relevant to success in graduate school.

• A statement of how the person knows you and for how long
• An indication of the person's professional expertise
• Comments on your intellectual strengths, motivation, creativity, time-management skills, work ethic, collegiality, and ability to handle stress and work independently
• Comments on your writing and verbal communication skills
• An assessment of your potential and abilities relative to others at your level of education and experience
• Ask each potential recommender if they are willing to act as a professional reference on your behalf.  If they decline your request, move on. 
• Be sure to let each potential recommender know the deadline for submission of the recommendation, and allow sufficient lead time for them to write and submit a strong letter.
• Provide your recommender the list of expectations (above) for what should be included in the letter.
• Supply a copy of your curriculum vitae or resume to each recommender to refresh their memory about your past education and achievements. This is particularly important if you haven't been in touch with them for a while.
• Supply a copy of your letter of intent to each recommender. This will help them to understand why you are applying to graduate school and what you want to do with your advanced education.

Your curriculum vitae or resume

You may choose to provide either a curriculum vitae or a resume. This document should summarize your preparation and experience relevant to graduate study in biological sciences. A curriculum vitae is most appropriate for applicants with career goals in academia, while a resume might be more appropriate for currently working professionals. CVs and resumes will be reviewed equivalently and with reference to the career goals that you outline in your letter of intent. Find specific advice about what to include on a CV or resume here .

The letter of intent

At a minimum, your letter of intent should include the following:

• Your academic experience, interests and preparation
• Background qualifications for the program
• Your career goals and how this degree will help you to achieve those goals
• The names of faculty members with whom you are interested in working
• A statement indicating whether or not you are seeking a graduate teaching assistantship (see below)

Funding options to pay for school

There are several options available to you for obtaining living expenses and tuitionwhile pursuing your graduate education. These are:

• Graduate teaching assistantship (TA): A teaching assistantship is the most common mechanism used by UNC biology graduate students for earning an income while working on a degree. Teaching Assistantships pay a stipend and cover tuition costs. See this page for more information.  Teaching responsibilities vary, but students typically teach undergraduate laboratory sections in an area related to their program of study. 
• Graduate research assistantship (GRA): Research assistantships are available through individual faculty members (typically the research mentor) who have obtained external grant funding to pay a student to work on one of their research projects. Contact individual faculty members to inquire if they have GRA funding available.
• Scholarships: These are typically awarded based on merit. To be eligible for most scholarships, you must have completed the financial aid application with the University, even if you don't expect to receive financial aid of any other type.

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Graduate Catalog 2023-2024

Graduate Catalog 2023-2024 > Graduate Programs > Doctoral Degrees > Biological Education Ph.D.

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Biological Education Ph.D.

• Chemical Education Ph.D.
• Counseling Psychology Ph.D.
• Counselor Education and Supervision Ph.D.
• Educational Leadership Ed.D.
• Educational Psychology Ph.D.
• Educational Studies Ed.D.
• Educational Technology Ph.D.
• Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership Ph.D.
• Mathematics Education PhD
• Music D.A. – Music Composition Concentration
• Music D.A. – Music Education Concentration
• Music D.A. – Music History and Literature Concentration
• Nursing D.N.P. – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Concentration (Post Bachelor’s)
• Nursing D.N.P. (Post-Master's)
• Nursing Education Ph.D.
• School Psychology Ph.D.
• Special Education Ph.D.
• Sport and Exercise Science PhD – Biomechanics Concentration
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• Sport and Exercise Science Ph.D. – Social Psychology of Sport & Physical Activity Concentration
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• Sport and Exercise Science Ph.D. – Physical Education and Physical Activity Leadership (PE PAL) Concentration
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Program Overview

College of Natural and Health Sciences

Site: Greeley Mode: In-person Start terms: Fall, Spring

Director: Mitchell E. McGlaughlin, Ph.D. Location: Ross Hall 2480 Telephone: 970.351.2921 Website: www.unco.edu/nhs/biology/ 

This program is designed for graduate students interested in specializing in either biology education or an area of the biological sciences that matches current faculty interests and expertise. Areas of emphasis in this program prepare students to conduct and supervise biological or pedagogical research and to instruct biology courses at the college or university level. 

Students are strongly encouraged to review the research areas of the Biology faculty on our website and contact faculty in whose research they are interested. The student must meet with a graduate advisor and graduate committee no later than the second semester of the program to determine a course of study.

General Doctoral Degree Admission Requirements

Program Requirements:

Before admission to the program, students should have completed at least four courses in biology and a combined total of three courses in the supporting areas of chemistry, calculus or physics. Students entering the program with deficiencies in coursework will be required to complete coursework based on recommendations of the graduate committee, the school director and the advisor. The following application materials should be submitted to the Graduate School:

• Application form and fee
• Official transcripts
• A letter of intent including research/teaching interests and goals
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Three letters of recommendation
• Optional - General GRE scores

Degree Requirements — 64 Credits

Pedagogical credits — 10 hours.

BIO 792 : Take 4 hours

Content Elective Credits — 26 hours

BIO 591 : Limit 2 hours

BIO 622 : Limit 6 hours

NOTE: A student can count a maximum of 8 credits from the following list of double numbered courses: BIO 530 , BIO 533 , BIO 534 , BIO 535 , BIO 537 , BIO 538 , BIO 554 , BIO 562 , BIO 566 , BIO 576

NOTE: Students can count no more than 9 credits of non-BIO content elective courses. Courses not on the list above may be used to fulfill this category with advisor approval.

Research Core — 12 hours

BIO 691 : Take 4 hours

Select one of the following courses:

Research proposal/dissertation — 16 hours.

BIO 797 : Take 4 credits

BIO 799 : Take 12 credits

Program Notes

Students must complete a minimum of 50 semester hours in biological science of combined undergraduate and graduate courses.

SRM 502 and SRM 700 may be waived depending on course background of the student.

Students in this program are exempt from the 94 graduate credit hours to Ph.D. minimum policy.

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Biology (Biology and Society), PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Biology (Biology and Society)

In the biology and society concentration of the PhD program in biology, students examine topics with biological and social dimensions that are best understood together rather than in isolation. The concentration provides plans of study tailored to individual needs and interests. It encompasses a solid foundation in life sciences and related sciences and provides a rigorous analytical and interdisciplinary education. Students may further specialize in one of four tracks:

Bioethics, policy and law --- This track focuses on pressing moral, policy and legal issues raised by biosciences and biomedicine, as well as methods to address them.

History and philosophy of science --- This track focuses on the conceptual foundations of science, especially the epistemological and methodological assumptions that shape science and its progress.

Ecology, economics and ethics of the environment --- This track focuses on the theory and empirical methods for understanding, analyzing and shaping policy that steer society toward a more productive, equitable and sustainable ecological future.

Biology education research --- This track focuses on using education research to identify ways to broadly improve undergraduate biology education.

Program Faculty   PhD Students

Concentrations

Bioethics, policy and law.

This track focuses on pressing moral, policy and legal issues raised by biosciences and biomedicine, and on the methods needed to address them.

Biology education research

This track focuses on using education research to identify ways to broadly improve undergraduate biology education. 

Ecology, economics, and ethics of the environment

This track focuses on the theory and empirical methods used for understanding, analyzing, and shaping policy that steers us toward a more productive, equitable and sustainable ecological future.

History and philosophy of science

This track focuses on the conceptual foundations of science, including the epistemological and methodological assumptions that shape science.

Graduates of this program, in any of the four tracks, frequently begin careers in higher education, research and administration, science communication and other areas related to life sciences.

Application and admission information

How to apply.

Applications open September 1 for admission in Fall of the following year. The application deadline is December 1 . We accept applications for Fall semesters only. We cannot guarantee that applications received after the December 1 deadline will be considered for admission.

All applicants must apply by filling out ASU's Graduate Admissions application. All application materials must be submitted through the application or to Graduate Admissions directly. Please do not mail or email any documents to the School of Life Sciences. 

Required materials and information include the following:

• 1-2 page personal statement
• An up to date CV or resume
• Writing sample
• The names of relevant SOLS faculty you have been in touch with who you might be interested in being supervised by
• Unofficial transcripts and English proficiency test scores (if applicable)
• The names and emails of at least 3 recommenders to write you letters of recommendation

Application review process and timeline

Following the December 1 deadline, faculty will begin reviewing applications. Applicants should monitor their My ASU priority tasks to ensure there are no missing materials in their application.

Faculty will decide which applicants they would like to invite to our Graduate Recruitment Weekends (GRWs), typically held in February. Applicants will hear from the School of Life Sciences in January if they are invited to participate in the GRWs.

Admission decisions will begin after the GRWs, and applicants typically receive final decisions by April 1.

Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission include the following:

• Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• There are other ways to demonstrate English proficiency beyond the tests, so please refer to ASU's English proficiency webpage to review how you might satisfy requirements.

Desired qualifications typically seen in competitive candidates:

• Research experience and a letter of recommendation from a faculty research supervisor
• English proficiency scores that meet these teaching assistant language proficiency requirements

Please note that the GRE is not required.

Students offered admission to a PhD program in the School of Life Sciences will typically receive a funding offer as well. While individual funding offers may differ to some degree, they typically include teaching assistant and/or research assistant positions each semester (summer optional) for 5 years. These positions provide financial coverage through the following:

• A standard salary stipend paid biweekly
• Tuition remission covering enrollment in 6-18 credit hours for fall and spring semesters and 1-14 credit hours for summer semesters
• Health insurance coverage

To discover more, check out the ASU Graduate College's funding opportunities !

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (3 or 4 credit hours) BIO 514 Statistical Models for Biology (4) or BIO 620 Research Prospectus Writing (3)

Electives (68 or 69 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) BIO 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information An individual student program is developed in consultation with the student's advisor and committee.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Students are expected to have completed the equivalent of core requirements for an undergraduate major in biology or a related discipline, typically evolution, genetics and other courses appropriate to the student's particular interests. Students without an undergraduate-level competency in the sciences may be considered for conditional admission to the biology and society concentration.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• academic record form
• personal statement
• curriculum vitae or resume
• writing sample
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, learning outcomes.

• Able to contribute to original biology and society research in scholarly writing.
• Able to communicate biology and society research results in presentations.
• Able to articulate an understanding of current literature on scientific developments and their relevance to society in scholarly writing.

Career Opportunities

Those who have earned a doctorate in biology and society are prepared for academic careers at every level, from community colleges to research universities. Their skills and knowledge are also valuable for government careers in federal and state agencies responsible for management and conservation, and for careers in industry and nongovernmental organizations. Graduates often choose careers in higher education, research, administration, policy and science communication.

Career examples include:

• food, agriculture and health care scientists in academic, private and industrial labs
• principal investigators and policymakers in government labs and nonprofit organizations
• professors or instructors in universities and colleges
• science teachers in elementary and high schools
• wildlife, animal and conservation scientists

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-1768

Graduate Admissions

Helpful guides for applying to the biology phd program, tips for applying to the cmob track, tips for applying to the eco/evo track.

The PhD program trains students for careers in research and teaching. In addition to a wide range of courses, the PhD program offers informal but intensive instruction in laboratories and seminars, characterized by close contact between students and their faculty advisors. Biology is one of fourteen home programs  in the  Biosciences,  which span the School of Medicine and the School of Humanities and Sciences.

How to Apply

For the 2023-2024 PhD application season, application processes will be run through existing Biology (School of Humanities & Sciences)  and the Oceans Department(Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability). 

Previously part of the Biology Department , Hopkins Marine Station is now part of the Oceans Department within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability (SDSS).  Several faculty took appointments in Oceans, while others chose to stay in Biology; still others have joint appointments.  Additionally, several faculty members in Ecology/Evolutionary Biology now have joint appointments within Biology and SDSS. Based on these changes, the following information will provide further guidance for the application process. 

• Faculty with 100% appointments in Biology, will only recruit through Biology.  The Biology application will be used.
• Ecology/Evolutionary Biology faculty with 50/50 appointments in both Biology and SDSS will recruit students through either Biology or Earth Systems Science .  If you are interested in working with Ecology/Evolutionary faculty with joint Biology/SDSS appointments, you should reach out to them directly regarding the appropriate application track to choose. 
• 100% Oceans faculty will only be recruiting students through the Earth Systems Science application.
• Oceans faculty appointed 50/50 in Biology and SDSS (Oceans Department), will recruit students through either Biology or Earth Systems Science .  If you are interested in working with Oceans faculty with joint Biology/SDSS appointments, you should reach out to the individual faculty members you hope to work with regarding the appropriate application and track to choose. 

Faculty Affiliated with the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability

Oceans Department:

Fio Micheli 100% 

Jeremy Goldbogen 100%

Giulio De Leo 100%

Larry Crowder 100%

Steve Palumbi 50% Oceans/50%Biology

Barbara Block 50% Oceans/50% Biology

*Note Chris Lowe will remain 100% in Biology

Ecology/Evolution

Liz Hadly 50% SDSS/50%Biology

Rodolfo Dirzo 50% SDSS/50%Biology

Tad Fukami 50% SDSS/50%Biology

Kabir Peay 50% SDSS/50%Biology

Chris Field 50% SDSS/50% Biology

Gretchen Daily 50% SDSS/50% Biology

Application and Deadline

Stanford Biology PhD Program applications are made through Graduate Admissions . The application deadline for Autumn Quarter 2024 matriculation is December 5, 2023 at 11:59pm pst.  The application for the Autumn 2024 cohort will be available in September 2023.  Please review the Graduate Admissions website prior to starting your application. Applications are considered for admission in Autumn Quarter only. 

Application Status

To check your application status,  click here to Visit Your Status Page .  

Requirements

• U.S. Bachelor's degree or its foreign equivalent
• Stanford Graduate application
• Non-refundable application fee of $125 (or fee waiver found here ) 
• Statement of Purpose
• Three Letters of Recommendation (a maximum of four letters will be accepted)
• Transcripts - Unofficial transcripts from all universities and colleges you've attended for one year or more must be uploaded to the online application.  Graduate Admissions only requires admitted applicants who accept the offer of admission to submit official transcripts that shows their degree conferral. Please do not send or have sent any official transcripts to us at this time.
• TOEFL Test of English as a Foreign Language (required for non-native English speakers)
• A current Curriculum Vitae/Resume

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Join dozens of  Stanford School of Humanities and Sciences students  who gain valuable leadership skills in a multidisciplinary, multicultural community as  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  (KHS). KHS admits up to 100 select applicants each year from across Stanford’s seven graduate schools, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders ready to address complex global challenges. As a scholar, you join a distinguished cohort, participate in up to three years of leadership programming, and receive full funding for up to three years of your PhD studies at Stanford. Candidates of any country may apply. KHS applicants must have earned their first undergraduate degree within the last seven years, and must apply to both a Stanford graduate program and to KHS. Stanford PhD students may also apply to KHS during their first year of PhD enrollment. If you aspire to be a leader in your field, we invite you to apply. The KHS application deadline is October 11, 2023. Learn more about  KHS admission .

Biology PhD Program General Information

Diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging.

The Department of Biology recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision. The Department of Biology welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. Review of applications is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, and admissions essays in order to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field.Please see the websites below for more resources.

• Diversity and Engagement in Biosciences PhD Programs
• Vice Provost for Graduate Education
• Biology Equity and Belonging
• Research Sites
• Faculty Profiles and Labs
• Inquiries about the PhD in Biology should be directed to  biologyadmissions [at] lists.stanford.edu (biologyadmissions[at]lists[dot]stanford[dot]edu)

PhD in Biology

The PhD program in Biology is a research-intensive program that also has a strong focus on teaching, designed to produce top scientists and educators with a broad base of knowledge to tackle the most important biological problems of today. This is accomplished through research training, graduate-level courses, seminars, and teaching experience. Entering students are assigned an advisory committee of three faculty members who work with the student to plan a suitable program based on the student's experience and interests.

PhD students in Biology receive full tuition support for six years, a competitive stipend, health coverage, and receive extensive training in pedagogy, outreach, and communication that prepares them for careers in academia, biotechnology, education, and policy. Students are required to serve as teaching assistants for at least two semesters. Most students complete the requirement for teaching experience in the first year by assisting in the introductory undergraduate biology courses for two semesters.

During the first year, students become familiar with research opportunities in the department by doing short research rotations with various faculty members. This experience in expected to lead to the selection of a research focus for the PhD thesis, and it also sets the stage for cross-disciplinary approaches to the thesis topic that is pursued.

First- and second-year students usually take some graduate courses that are selected in consultation with the advisory committee, in addition to one required course: either Biology 243: Topics in Molecular and Cell Biology; Biology 244: Topics in Evolutionary Ecology; or Biology 246: Topics in Physiology and Animal Behavior.

The department faculty are educators as well as researchers, and the graduate students benefit from this expertise. Graduate students serving as teaching assistants have the opportunity to take a course on teaching and pedagogy to improve their skills, or to become involved with upper level courses in their area of expertise. In addition, we offer a one-month summer program for PhD students interested in contributing to course design and honing their teaching skills via GIFT, the Graduate Institute For Teaching .

Research Concentrations

Browse the six concentration areas below for recommended programs of study and relevant courses:

• Biology Education Research
• Ecology, Behavior and Evolution
• Global Change Biology
• Genetics and Molecular Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Physiology, Neurobiology and Animal Behavior

Graduate credit for a course requires a grade of B- (B minus) or better. A list of biology department undergraduate and graduate courses can be found by selecting the Courses button from the top bar.

Throughout the year, graduate students benefit from a variety of seminars on current research that are presented by faculty, fellow graduate students, and invited speakers.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biology

The PhD in Biology is a research degree requiring graduate-level coursework, completion of a dissertation, and two semesters of participation in teaching (usually as a teaching fellow in laboratory or discussion sections of lecture courses led by Biology faculty). For most students, obtaining this degree typically involves five or more years of full-time study.

A summary of Biology PhD student expectations by year can be found here . Full details can be found in the Graduate Program Guide .

The Biology Department guarantees support for five years for all PhD students, contingent on satisfactory performance in the program.

How to Apply    Frequently Asked Questions

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate academic mastery in one of three areas of Biology: Ecology, Evolution, Behavior & Marine Biology; Neurobiology; or Cellular & Molecular Biology.

2. Attain research expertise , including grant writing experience, and complete original research that advances a specific field of study within one of three broad subject areas represented in the department: Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology; Neurobiology; or Cellular & Molecular Biology.

3. Attain teaching experience and expertise in one of three broad areas of Biology: Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology; Neurobiology; or Cellular & Molecular Biology.

4. Attain the skills and qualifications needed for employment in an academic, government, or private sector position related to the life sciences.

Coursework Requirements

Students must complete 64 credits with a minimum grade point average of 3.0; at least 32 of these credits must be accrued from lecture, laboratory, or seminar courses. Students with prior graduate work may be able to transfer course credits.  See the  Graduate School of Arts & Sciences (GRS) Transfer of Credits policy  for more details. 

• 2 semesters of Progress in Research Seminars (2 credits each):

Cell & Molecular Biology:  BI 583 & BI 584 (CM section)

Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology:  BI 579 & BI 580

Neurobiology:   BI 583 & BI 584 (NEURO section)

• 1 semester grant-writing course (2 credits):

Cell & Molecular Biology:  BI 581

Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology: BI 671

Neurobiology: BI 581

• 1 semester pedagogy course (1 credit): All Biology PhD students take  BI 697
• 1 quantitative course (3–4 credits): from a list of recommended courses .
• Additional courses vary by specific track below:

Cell & Molecular Biology

1. GRS BI 791/GRS BI 792 Graduate Rotation Credits (2 credits each/4 credits total)

2. GRS BI 753 Advanced Molecular Biology  (4 credits)

3. GRS MB 721 Graduate Biochemistry  (4 credits)

4. GRS BI 735 Advanced Cell Biology  (4 credits)

5. Two electives (8 credits, 500-level and above), see the Graduate Program Guide for recommendations

6. Research credits  (remaining credits)

Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology

1. Six electives  (24 credits, 500-level and above), see the Graduate Program Guide for recommendations

2. Research credits  (remaining credits)

Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology PhD candidate coursework is highly variable. Students, in consultation with advisors, develop a plan of coursework and research. Students are required to take a minimum of 32 credits of coursework. The remainder of the credits should be research.

Neurobiology

2. GRS BI 755 Cellular and Systems Neuroscience  (4 credits)

3. GRS BI 741 Neural Systems: Functional Circuit Analysis  (4 credits)

4. Four electives  (16 credits, 500-level and above), see the Graduate Program Guide for recommendations

5. Research credits  (remaining credits)

Teaching Requirement

The department requires a minimum of two semesters of teaching as part of the Doctor of Philosophy program. During the first semester of teaching, students are required to enroll in our first-year seminar course, GRS BI 697 A Bridge to Knowledge . The course provides guidance and training on pedagogy and other aspects of graduate school.

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination must be completed no later than six semesters after matriculation. In most graduate curricula in the department, this consists of a research proposal—often in the form of a grant application—which the student submits to their committee and subsequently defends in an oral presentation. In the  Cell & Molecular Biology and Ecology, Behavior, Evolution & Marine Biology curricula , this is preceded by a comprehensive written examination testing the student’s general background from coursework.

Dissertation & Final Oral Examination

Candidates shall demonstrate their abilities for independent study in a dissertation representing original research or creative scholarship. A prospectus for the dissertation must be completed and approved by the readers, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Biology Department Chair. Candidates must undergo a final oral examination in which they defend their dissertation as a valuable contribution to knowledge in their field and demonstrate a mastery of their field of specialization in relation to their dissertation. All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the  GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree . The results of the dissertation must be presented at a department colloquium.

Graduation Timeline

Forms and additional information about PhD graduation can be found on the GRS website .

9 – 12 months before proposed graduation date

• Dissertation Prospectus & approval form due to Graduate Program Specialist for departmental review and submission to GRS

Semester prior to your intended graduation cycle

• Intent to Graduate Form completed online

About 2 months before dissertation defense

• Meet with Graduate Program Specialist, Director of Graduate Studies, and Faculty Advisor to review requirements for defense
• Arrange for Special Service Appointments if committee members are not BU faculty
• Send first draft of dissertation to readers

Once defense date is confirmed with committee

• Reserve room(s) for public seminar and defense

At least three weeks prior to dissertation defense

• Schedule of Final Oral Exam with Abstract Approval due to GRS
• Properly formatted draft of dissertation submitted as PDF to [email protected]

At least two weeks prior to dissertation defense

• Send dissertation to all committee members

At least one week prior to dissertation defense

• Send program information to Graduate Program Specialist

See the Graduate Program Guide for final dates to submit dissertation to ETD

• Submit final dissertation to ETD (online submission)
• Complete electronic signature page and forward confirmation to Graduate Program Specialist along with a copy of your submitted dissertation

MS Degree (En Route to PhD)

Option one: A PhD student who has advanced to candidacy (as demonstrated by passing the PhD qualifying exam), and has completed 32 credits of graduate-level coursework (not including research) may apply to the Graduate School for an MS degree in Biology. This must be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies within the Biology Department. The student’s major professor will receive notification of this application process.

Option two: A PhD student who has taken, but has not advanced to candidacy based on the PhD qualifying examination, may still receive an MS degree. This student may receive a Coursework MS degree provided they have completed 32 credits of coursework (not including research credits). Alternatively, this student may receive a Scholarly Paper or Research Thesis MS degree if the written portion of the qualifying examination is adapted to ensure it is of sufficiently high quality for a MS degree, and approved by a majority of the qualifying exam committee and the Director of Graduate Studies.

Interdisciplinary Study Options

Biology PhD students have the option to participate in the Boston University Graduate Program in Urban Biogeoscience and Environmental Health (BU URBAN), the National Science Foundation Research Traineeship Program Understanding the Brain: Neurophotonics (NSF NRT UtB: Neurophotonics), and the Biogeoscience Advanced Graduate Certificate Program . These programs require separate applications in addition to the standard Biology PhD application; those interested in BU URBAN are encouraged pre-apply .

Time Limits

Officially, the PhD must be completed within seven years after the first registration for doctoral study. PhD degrees are conferred in either May, August, or January, as specified on the GRS website . In addition, the PhD candidacy expires after the fifth anniversary of passing the Qualifying Examination. Petitions to extend this deadline are possible at the discretion of the Director of Graduate Studies, the Department Chair, and the Dean of the Graduate School, and can be obtained from the Office of the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences.

The Biology Department guarantees support for five years for all PhD students, contingent on satisfactory performance in the program. PhD students are encouraged to apply for fellowships and grants at funding agencies. All domestic students should apply for NSF Graduate Research Fellowships in the Fall semester of their first or second year. 

Travel Grants may be available to assist students in their travel to professional scientific meetings; students presenting papers or posters on their research will receive first consideration.

Common Types of Funding:

Dean’s Fellowships: These are non-service fellowships allocated to first-year PhD students that do not have immediate teaching requirements.

Teaching Fellowships: These provide a stipend plus full tuition and fees for up to four full courses per semester plus a 2-credit teaching course. Teaching responsibilities usually require approximately 20 hours per week. Full or partial awards may be given.

Doctoral Research Fellowships: These awards are given to students who assist individual faculty with specific areas of research. These Research Fellowships provide a stipend and full tuition. The supervising faculty member determines the specific duties of the Research Fellow.

In addition to the above funding sources, several competitive Department awards and fellowships are available to graduate students in the Department of Biology.

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Biology Education

The  Biology Education Area  is a group for people who are interested in teaching and in teaching-related research.  Our common goal is to promote high quality instruction and enhance learning by applying educational research to course and curricular design.  This area transcends sub-disciplinary boundaries by working with other research areas to help answer discipline-specific questions related to teaching and learning methodology.

Faculty and students who affiliate with other research areas may affiliate secondarily with Biology Education (and vice-versa) if their teaching-related work or research may be supported by interactions within the Biology Education Area.  Therefore, members and affiliates of our area include:

research-active faculty who complement their discipline-specific research with educational innovation

faculty whose primary role is now teaching

faculty members who primarily affiliate with the  Purdue International Biology Education Research Group  (PIBERG), and 

non tenure-track instructors.

In the  Biology Education Area , we focus on improving the quality of biology education at Purdue and around the world. Members of our area participate in a range of interdisciplinary activities that attempt to promote student success in biology by improving study and teaching methods.  Scholarship in the Biology Education research area focuses on:

• developing Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs)
• innovating classroom and laboratory instruction to improve teaching and learning effectiveness
• promoting retention and graduation of graduate and undergraduate students in Biology
• faculty development
• education of and outreach to High School Biology teachers

Download a letter from our Convener (PDF: 334KB) about opportunities for graduate students. By highlighting what our faculty, graduate students, post-doctoral scholars, and other affiliates have been doing to promote student success in biology, the Biology Education Area is mobilizing the department, the university, and professional societies to educate the next generation to develop the advanced reasoning and problem-solving abilities that are so critical to new discoveries in the life sciences. Note: these projects are externally funded.

Biology Education News

• The road not taken: host infection status influences parasite host-choice
• Pelaez elected Fellow of American Assoc. for the Advancement of Science
• A CURE for learning about experimentation
• Pelaez, Gardner and Anderson Presented Advancing Competencies in Experimentation - Biology (ACE-Bio) at SABER
• A community-building framework for collaborative research coordination across the education and biology research disciplines
• Of mice and worms: are co-infections with unrelated parasite strains more damaging to definitive hosts?
• Research Area Members
• Adler, Jacob
• Bartlett, Edward
• Bernal, Ximena
• Camarillo, Ignacio
• Gardner, Stephanie
• Guzey, Siddika
• Humphrey, Sean
• Minchella, Dennis
• Sahley, Chris

Purdue University Biological Sciences, 915 Mitch Daniels Boulevard, West Lafayette, IN 47907

Main Office: (765) 494-4408   Business Office: (765) 494-4764   Contact Us

© 2024 Purdue University | An equal access/equal opportunity university | Copyright Complaints

Trouble with this page? Disability-related accessibility issue ? Please contact the College of Science Webmaster .

Maintained by Science IT

PhD Program in Biology

Our graduate program provides students of diverse backgrounds with the opportunity to intensely engage in research in the biological sciences and contribute to the broader scientific community.

Average time to degree: 5.3 years

Percentage of graduates in post-doctoral or permanent positions: 94%

Average publications after completion of program: 3.8 per person

PhD Program

The Department of Biology introduces graduate students to diverse fields of biological science, and provides them with expert guidance to excel in research. The department is invested in training students to become excellent scientists, researchers, science communicators, and instructors. We are a diverse and global community, committed to expanding scientific career opportunities to all. Some of our graduates become academics, whereas others find careers in government, private industry, public policy, or elsewhere (see where recent graduates are now). The ability to communicate ideas and research results clearly and convincingly is key to success in any career.

Experience Biology at Georgetown University

Professors and current students share their perspective of Georgetown’s cutting edge biology graduate program.

Potential applicants are urged to identify and contact potential research mentors directly before applying. Please refer to the research page and the list of faculty interested in accepting students . Not all laboratories will have open positions available for a new graduate student in a given year.

Financial Assistance for PhD Students

    students who are accepted into the phd program in biology are guaranteed a minimum of five years of full funding. this funding includes:.

Stipend The stipend for PhD students in Biology is set by the Collective Bargaining Agreement between Georgetown University and the Georgetown Alliance of Graduate Employees ( GAGE ). The current stipend rate is $36,934 for the year. The stipend is paid on a 12-month contract, typically in 26 biweekly pay checks.

Tuition Waiver The Graduate school of Arts & Sciences (GSAS) provides full tuition waivers for all PhD students for the duration of the PhD program.

Health Insurance Health insurance is required. The GSAS provides free student health insurance to all students. The insurance covers doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. Students may waive this benefit if they prefer a different plan through parents or a spouse.

Dental Insurance The GSAS provides free dental insurance to all students. The insurance covers routine dental care, such as cleanings and exams.

Yates Athletic Facility All students are eligible to use the Yates athletic facility for free. The facility has a gym, swimming pool, and fitness classes.

Parental Leave Graduate student workers are guaranteed six weeks of paid parental leave. This leave can be used to bond with a new child or to care for a sick child.

Medical Leave Graduate student workers are guaranteed six weeks of paid medical leave. This leave can be used to recover from a medical condition or to care for a sick family member.

To learn more about financial assistance for PhD students, please visit the Graduate Funding page. You can read more about what it means to do a PhD in a union-protected graduate program  here

Student Quotes

“Until you start your journey in grad school you might not know what you are missing out on. Other than the course work, grad school has been instrumental in  inculcating important life values and skills such as confidence, time management, survival, and holding personal and professional relationships in higher esteem. ”

“Studying at Georgetown has enabled me to be a lot more confident in my ability to ask questions and chart my own path in scientific research. My advisor and mentors here at Georgetown have been top quality in terms of both academic and personal support”

“Georgetown is a place with an environment conducive to learning and professional growth for prospective scientists working towards their graduate degrees and beyond. In this program, I found mentorship and training that foster the critical thinking required to answer the questions I am interested in. I found the multidisciplinary nature of the graduate student body to be engaging and supportive from the beginning of my journey.”

“The breadth of research that goes on in the Bio department really facilitates a broad understanding of biology from the life of single cells to the life of much larger organisms. It really is something unique that you don’t get at other more specific departments and has really helped me think outside of the box with my own work.”

Graduate Research Opportunities

Learn about the research programs that the department of Biology offers and find out which programs are recruiting graduate students.

Graduate Teaching Opportunities

Find out about the many opportunities that are offered to graduate students to develop teaching and mentoring skills.

Graduate Funding Opportunities

Learn about stipend funding and the additional funds from the GU Graduate School offered to help support graduate dissertation research or travel to meetings.

PhD in Biological Sciences in Public Health

Prepare for a high-impact academic or research career at the forefront of the biological sciences in public health..

As a student in the PhD in biological sciences in public health program, you will gain expertise in the prevention and treatment of diseases that affect thousands—even millions—of people. Working with leading public health scientists, you will learn both mechanistic and quantitative approaches to biomedical research, while specializing in one of four areas of investigation:

• The metabolic basis of health and disease
• Immunology and infectious diseases
• Gene-environment interactions
• Inflammation and stress responses

Each area of investigation emphasizes biochemical, cell biological, and genetic approaches to understanding disease. In your research, whether basic or translational, you will apply cutting-edge tools and techniques to advance the understanding, treatment, and prevention of human diseases that significantly impact global populations today. Current research within our laboratories includes these and other diseases and risk factors:

• Atherosclerosis
• Chagas’ disease
• Environmental exposure to toxins
• Inflammatory diseases
• Kidney disease
• Metabolic syndrome
• Tuberculosis

As a graduate of the program, you will be prepared for a career as a faculty member in a college, university, medical school, research institute, or school of public health. You may also choose to pursue a career in research at a government agency, or in the private sector at a consulting, biotech, or pharmaceutical firm.

The program provides broad interdisciplinary knowledge of both mechanistic and quantitative approaches to biomedical research and prepares graduate students for research careers with courses in the following areas:

• Biochemistry, Genetics
• Biostatistics
• Cell biology
• Epidemiology
• Immunology/Infectious diseases
• Molecular biology
• Toxicology/Cancer cell biology

All students admitted to the PhD in biological sciences in public health program, including international students, are guaranteed full funding, which includes a stipend, tuition, and health insurance for five years, provided they maintain satisfactory progress.

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

To qualify for admission, applicants must demonstrate strong enthusiasm and ability for the vigorous pursuit of scientific knowledge. Minimum requirements include a bachelor’s degree and undergraduate preparation in the sciences.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Like all PhD (doctor of philosophy) programs at the School, the PhD in biological sciences in public health is offered under the aegis of the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS). Applications are processed through the Harvard Griffin GSAS online application system . The program is located within the Division of Biological Sciences at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

OUR COMMUNITY: COMMITTED, ACCOMPLISHED, COLLABORATIVE

As a PhD candidate in the biological sciences in public health program, you will be part of a diverse and accomplished group of students with a broad range of research and other interests. The opportunity to learn from each other and share ideas outside of the classroom will be one of the most rewarding and productive parts of the program. The School fosters those relationships by sponsoring an “informal curriculum” of seminars, journal clubs, retreats, and other opportunities that will broaden your knowledge, hone your presentation skills, and teach you how to critically evaluate scientific literature while providing a supportive, collaborative community within which to pursue your degree. Our location in the heart of Boston’s Longwood Medical Area—home to Harvard Medical School, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and many world-class hospitals—makes collaboration with eminent laboratory and clinical researchers a natural part of the educational experience. And when you graduate, you will benefit from Harvard’s unparalleled global network of alumni leaders.

LEARN MORE Visit our website at www.hsph.harvard.edu/biological-sciences for more information or contact [email protected]

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• Graduate programs in BER

Graduate Programs in Biology Education Research (BER)

The following programs grant advanced degrees in biology education research. To find out more about any of the programs, please write to them directly at the provided contact information.

If you represent a degree-granting biology education research program which would like to be listed here, please fill out this form . (You can also use the same form if your program is listed but the information needs to be updated.)

For those interested in chemistry education research a link to those programs can be found here.   https://sites.google.com/miamioh.edu/bretzsl/cer-resources/cer-graduate-programs?authuser=0  

The link to geoscience education research programs can be found below.   https://geocognitionresearchlaboratory.com/graduate-study/geocognition-geoscience-education-research-programs/

(If you prefer, download an excel sheet with headers that allow you to filter results by degree type and state.) Excel sheet last update: Sept 1 2020. Listing last update: November 6, 2022.

Arizona State University Tempe, Arizona

Ph.D. in Biology

Ph.D. In Biology and Society

M.S. in Biology

Department: School of Life Sciences

BER Contact Person : Katelyn Cooper ([email protected]) and Sara Brownell ([email protected])

Applications due: December 15, 2020. Priority Deadline: December 1, 2020

Program details:

Non-BER experience: Not needed

Rotations: No, students should contact PI of interest first

Core Curriculum: Coursework is flexible.  For the Ph.D. program, there are a few required biology courses. Students' remaining coursework can be in other disciplines relevant to biology education (e.g. statistics, learning sciences, psychology).

Committee: ASU is home to a community of discipline-based education researchers as well as faculty in biology, statistics, learning sciences, and psychology who can serve on students’ committees.

Other Comments:   At ASU, students interested in studying undergraduate biology education have the opportunity to earn their MS or PhD through the School of Life Sciences.  The School of Life Sciences is home to Katelyn Cooper’s Biology Education Research Lab ( https://katelyncooper1.wixsite.com/bioedlab   ) and Sara Brownell’s Biology Education Research Lab ( https://sebbers.wixsite.com/biology-ed-lab   ). Both labs are broadly interested in research questions pertaining to equity and access in biology education and are part of a larger Research for Inclusive STEM Education (RISE) Center, that is an interdisciplinary research center focused on equity and inclusion. Specific research interests are outlined on the respective lab websites.

Auburn University Auburn, Alabama

Ph.D. in Biological Sciences

M.S. in Biological Sciences

Department: Department of Biological Sciences

URL:   ballenlab.com

BER Contact Person: Cissy Ballen ([email protected])

Program Details: Auburn supports a large community in our Department of Biological Sciences (DBS). Students can apply to join the Biology Education Research program at the M.Sc. and Ph.D. level, but admission requires an undergraduate degree in biology or closely related field. The application for admission to the DBS graduate program includes a CV, personal statement, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. Auburn University and the Ballen Lab are interested in candidates who are committed to high standards of scholarship and to fostering a climate that supports equality and diversity.

Type of Degree offered (Ph.D. in Biology, Ph.D. in Education, M.S. in Biological Science Education, etc.):  Ph.D. in Biological sciences; M.S. in Biological Sciences

Should applicants have non-BER (traditional bench-work) research experience?   Not needed

Do students need a non-BER chapter or publication (traditional bench-work) in their dissertation?  Dissertation chapters can be all BER or one can be non-BER

Do students have to be co-advised by a non-BER faculty member in Biology?

No, but a non-BER committee member is RECOMMENDED

Do students do rotations?   No, students should contact PI of interest first

Other Comments:  Auburn supports a large community in our Department of Biological Sciences (DBS). Students can apply to join the Biology Education Research program at the M.Sc. and Ph.D. level, but admission requires an undergraduate degree in biology or closely related field. The application for admission to the DBS graduate program includes a CV, personal statement, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. Auburn University and the Ballen Lab are interested in candidates who are committed to high standards of scholarship and fostering a climate that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Bowling Green State University Bowling Green, Ohio

Link: https://www.bgsu.edu/arts-and-sciences/biological-sciences.html

BER Contact Person: Karen Sirum ([email protected])

Brigham Young University Provo, UT

M.S. in Biological Science Education

Department:  Department of Biology

Link: https://biology.byu.edu/ms-biological-science-education ; https://biology.byu.edu/phd-biology

BER Contact Person: Jamie Jensen ([email protected]); Liz Bailey ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info: Gentri Glaittli ([email protected])

Program Details: MS program can be specialized to precede an education PhD, to prepare you for higher ed teaching, or to add to a licensure program. The PhD program is in Biology with a specialty in Science Education. It is a normal research dissertation program. Your advisor may or may not require you to complete non-education biology research.

California State University San Marcos San Diego, CA

Department:  Department of Biological Sciences

Link:   https://www.csusm.edu/biology/bioms/index.html

BER Contact Person:   Dr. Mallory Rice,  [email protected]  

Administrative Contact Person:  

This posting last updated:  Jan 31, 2022

Applications due:   March 1  

Non-BER experience:  Not needed   

Rotations:  No, students should contact PI of interest first

Do students have to be co-advised by non-BER faculty:  Yes  

Are requirements for BER different than non-BER students in the same department :   No  

Cornell University Ithaca, New York

Ph.D. in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Field

Department: Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Link: https://ecologyandevolution.cornell.edu/graduate

BER Contact Person: Michelle Smith ([email protected])       

Administrative Contact Info: Patty Jordan ([email protected])

Program Details: Students are admitted into a particular lab, so contacting potential advisors ahead of time and expressing interest is important. Student projects can be 100% BER or co-mentored by non-BER faculty. Faculty in physics education and other relevant fields can serve on committees. Graduate students in the EEB department are required to TA for two semesters. However, graduate students usually TA for multiple semesters and there is a supportive culture that values both teaching and research. Fostering diversity among students, researchers, and faculty is a priority for EEB. We work to create an inclusive environment and are committed to improving the representation of minority groups in our field. There are several graduate school recruitment fellowships in support of diversity for incoming students: https://gradschool.cornell.edu/diversity-inclusion/funding-and-resources/graduate-school-fellowships-in-support-of-diversity/

Colorado State    Fort Collins, Colorado

Department:   Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology

Degree offered: Ph.D in Microbiology

Application deadline :   12-01-2022 (December 1st)  

Link :  https://graduateschool.colostate.edu/programs/microbiology-phd/  

BER Contact Person:   Justine Liepkalns ( [email protected] ) and Nicole Kelp ( nic [email protected] )

Administrative Contact Person:  Lesley Jones ( [email protected] )

This posting last updated:   Oct 17, 2022

Applications due:  

Non-BER experience:  It is RECOMMENDED

Rotations:  Yes, in BER labs AND non-BER labs

Do students have to be co-advised by a non-BER faculty member in Biology?   No, but a non-BER committee member is RECOMMENDED

Core Curriculum:   Students are required to take 16 credits of graduate level courses, 13 of these credits are from courses

within the Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology program. Additional course work may include classes in statistics,

social sciences, and courses best suited for preparing students for their project.  

Are there any BER specific requirements.   No, students will be part of the MIP graduate student cohort. MIP houses a group of DBER researchers who meet regularly to discuss projects, manuscripts, and grants. In addition, the student will choose a committee best suited for their project.

Do students need a non-BER chapter or publication (traditional bench-work) in their dissertation?  No, all chapters should be in BER

Other Comments:  Important note to applicants: Be sure to mention that you are interested in BER in your application's

Statement of Purpose.  

Danforth Plant Science Center St. Louis, Missouri

Department: Education Research and Outreach

BER Contact Person: Kristine Callis-Duehl  ( [email protected])

Program Details: In collaboration with St. Louis University (SLU), the Danforth Plant Science Center offers a unique opportunity for students interested in Biology Education Research with a plant science focus. Our major research programs include, but are not limited to: (1) engagement in science practice and examining identity, attitudes and productive failure through research experiences and citizen science projects, (2) improving access to and inclusion in STEM for underserved populations including homeless students or refugee student both in-person and through virtual education, and (3) examining "plant blindness" among various populations and developing interventions and activities to counter plant blindness.

East Carolina University Greenville, NC

Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences

Department: Biology

Link : ecu.edu/biology

BER Contact Person: Heather Vance-Chalcraft ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Person: Xiaoping Pan ([email protected])

This posting last updated: May 29, 2020

Applications due: Rolling admissions

Non-BER experience: Recommended

Thesis/Dissertation: Can be all BER or not

Rotations: No, Students should contact PI of interest

Core Curriculum: Ethics, Statistics, Seminar

Committee : Can be all BER

Other Comments: Funding is available to support M.S. and Ph.D. students.

Eastern Washington University Cheney, Washington

Link: https://www.ewu.edu/cstem/biology/biology-ms/

BER Contact Person: Bo Idsardi ([email protected])

This posting last updated: December 25, 2019

Thesis/Dissertation: Non-BER chapter recommended in MS thesis

Committee: A non-BER committee member is not required, but recommended

Other Comments: EWU offers a thesis-based M.S. in Biology with the option to focus on biology education research (BER) or BER integrated with biology research. Students’ programs are tailored to their interest, with courses in biology, education, and research methods. Support is available through department teaching assistantships. Students interested should contact potential mentors prior to applying.

Florida International University Miami, Florida

Department: Department of Biological Sciences & STEM Transformation Institute

Link: https://biology.fiu.edu/academics/degrees-and-programs/phd-biology/index.html

BER Contact Person: Melissa McCartney ([email protected]); Sarah L. Eddy ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info: Yookyung Song ([email protected])

Program Details: Although the program is based in biology, we work closely with the STEM Transformation Institute which is composed of 15+ education researchers from across the STEM fields. This network of support will provide a large community of DBER graduate students, access to training in methods and theories used across these fields, and collaborations within and across STEM disciplines. Student research projects will commonly use undergraduate biology education spaces as a context, but can expand to research topics encompassing additional educational spaces and levels. In addition, there is flexibility in the courses students can take to meet the PhD requirements including courses in education, psychology, and sociology.

Link: https://cosm.georgiasouthern.edu/biology/graduate-program-2/

BER Contact Person: Sue Ellen DeChenne-Peters ([email protected])

Program Details: Students can pursue a M.S. in Biology and conduct biology education research. The program is tailored to each student’s interests and includes coursework in biology, statistics, and education. The biology department has a vibrant teaching and learning community. Georgia Southern has a unique three campus system in Southeast GA, providing research and teaching opportunities with diverse student populations. Dr. DeChenne-Peters is located on the Armstrong campus in Savannah, GA.

Idaho State University Pocatello, Idaho

D.A. (Doctor of Arts) in Biology

Department: Biological Sciences Department

Link: https://www.isu.edu/biology/degree-programs/graduate-degrees/dainformation/#d.en.62387

BER Contact Person: Anna Strimaitis Grinath ([email protected])

Program Details: The D.A. in Biology Education is a highly individualized degree that can be tailored to each student's career goals in biology education research and teaching. D.A. Students may work directly with Anna Grinath's research group or with any other biology faculty member. The student may choose to include biology coursework and research in non-education labs in their program of study and research proposal if it supports their career goals (see Timelines & Benchmarks). A completed Master's degree which included a thesis of original biological research is strongly preferred for entry to the program. The department is currently allotted 8 D.A. fellowships, which include a stipend and tuition and fee waivers.

Timelines & Benchmarks: https://www.isu.edu/biology/forms-=guidelines/graduate-program-timeline/

Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho

Department: Biological Sciences

Link: https://www.isu.edu/biology/

Applications due: Priority Deadline: January 15

Compare BER and non-BER graduate experience : For the Ph.D. and M.S. in Biology, BER students fulfill the same requirements as non-BER students. BER students will tailor their graduate course work towards the BER graduate courses offered by Biology. Students doing the Ph.D. in Biology may also declare a minor in Biology Education. The Biology Education minor involves a series of Biology Education Research seminar courses, completing a series of structured teaching internships partnered with a biology faculty member, and Biology Education minors are also eligible for fellowship funding. ISU also has a D.A. degree in Biology which differs from the Ph.D. (see separate description). Anna is happy to talk with you about the distinction between the Ph.D. and the D.A. degrees.

Thesis/Dissertation: All chapters should be in BER

Core Curriculum: Careers in Life Sciences (applies to BER); Proposal Seminar (applies to BER); Biometry (applies to BER); Seminars in Biology Education (BER)

Committee: All advisors and committee members can be in BER

Other Comments:   BER Ph.D. and M.S. students will work with Anna Grinath's research group and complete all regular requirements for the Ph.D. or M.S. in Biology and engage in biology education research for their thesis or dissertation research. BER graduate students are expected to take both biology and education-related courses that support their goals. The graduate student will be housed in the biology department, which supports all graduate students and faculty to think deeply about biology teaching and learning.

Michigan State University   East Lansing, Michigan  

Department: Physiology

Degrees offered:  Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology

Link:  https://physiology.natsci.msu.edu/academics/graduate/molecular-cellular-and-integrative-physiology-ph-d-program/

BER Contact Person:  Shahnaz Masani ( [email protected] ), Jennifer Doherty ( [email protected] ), Douglas Luckie ( [email protected] )

Administrative Contact Person:  Jasmine Jackson ( [email protected] )

Should applicants have non-BER (traditional bench-work) research experience?   Not Needed

Do students need a non-BER chapter or publication (traditional bench-work) in their dissertation?

No, all chapters should be in BER

Do students do rotations?  Yes, in BER labs AND non-BER labs

Core Classes:  PSL 829: Cellular and Integrative Phys II (Non-BER), PSL 828: Cellular and Integrative Phys I (Non-BER), PSL 950: Topics in Physiology (BER or NON-BER)

Do students have to be co-advised by a non-BER faculty member in Biology?  No, but a non-BER committee member is RECOMMENDED

Specific BER Requirements: None  

Program Details:  Please see the LIPHE Research Group website for information on BER projects:  https://liphe.psl.msu.edu/

Middle Tennessee State University Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Ph.D. in Biology Education

Department: Department of Biology, Mathematics & Science Education Ph.D. Program

Link: https://www.mtsu.edu/programs/math-science-education-phd/

BER Contact Person: Grant Gardner, BER Faculty Advisor ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info: Jennifer Kaplan, Program Director ([email protected])

Program Details: The Biology Education Ph.D. is a focal area in MTSU's Interdisciplinary Mathematics and Science Education (MSE) Ph.D. program that resides in the College of Basic and Applied Sciences. Student coursework includes biology content as well as education research theory and methods. Students are part of a cohort in the larger MSE program that includes students studying in other focal areas: Chemistry Education, Mathematics Education, and Interdisciplinary STEM Education. There are currently 4 faculty that serve the Biology Education focal area at various levels. Students are admitted into the program and not a particular research team, but it is recommended that interested students review Biology Education faculty research https://www.mtsu.edu/biology/research.php before applying. Assistantships are available for qualified students.

North Dakota State University Fargo, North Dakota

Dual Ph.D. in DBER, Biology 

Link: https://www.ndsu.edu/dber/

BER Contact Persons: Jenni Momsen ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info:  Jenni Momsen ( [email protected] )

When are graduate applications due?   Rolling admissions

Location:  Fargo, ND  

Name of Department:  Biological Sciences & Others

Program Details:   Students at NDSU are part of an exciting interdisciplinary program, and regularly work with faculty and graduate students in Physics Education, Chemistry Education, Psychology, and beyond. Many students earn a College Teaching Certificate. Find out why Fargo is "North of Normal"!  

Non-BER experience:   Not necessary

Do students need a non-BER chapter or publication (traditional bench-work) in their dissertation?: No, all chapters can be in BER

Do students do rotations?:  No, students should contact PI of interest first

Core classes:  BER Courses: Introduction to College Science Teaching; Curriculum & Assessment; Research Methods; STEM Journal Club

Do students have to be co-advised by a non-BER faculty member in Biology?  No, all advisors and comittee members can be in BER

Northern Illinois University DeKalb, Illinois

Link: https://www.niu.edu/biology/academics/graduate-studies/biology-education.shtml

BER Contact Person: Heather Bergan-Roller ([email protected])

Program Details: NIU offers flexible graduate programs in biology education research such that students may focus solely on BER or integrate BER along with research in biology. Student would construct their own experience to potentially include coursework in biology, education, and/or psychology and have teaching opportunities. Students would join a DBER community that includes Anatomy, Geology, Chemistry, Physics, and Math.

Portland State University Portland, Oregon

Department: Department of Biology

This posting last updated:  November 6, 2022

Link:   https://www.shortlidgegroup.org/  

When are graduate applications due?    February

BER Contact Person: Erin Shortlidge ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Person:  Erin Shortlidge ([email protected])

Program Details: Students pursuing graduate work will work directly with Dr. Shortlidge's group but will have the opportunity to engage with a broader DBER group on campus. Students will conduct research in biology/STEM education and will be expected to participate in biology, education, and quantitative and qualitative methods coursework. Graduate students typically work as teaching assistants, and will have the opportunity to participate in a Teaching Certificate program. Prior experience in basic biology research is preferred.

Should applicants have non-BER (traditional bench-work) research experience?  It is RECOMMENDED

Do students do rotations?  No, students should contact PI of interest first

Do students have to be co-advised by a non-BER faculty member in Biology?  No, but a non-BER committee member is REQUIRED

Purdue University West Lafayette, Indiana

Link: https://www.bio.purdue.edu/Academic/graduate/pdf/BioEdAreaGradOpportunities.pdf

BER Contact Person: Nancy Pelaez ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info: Gina Rupp, Graduate Program Coordinator ([email protected], 765-494-8142)

Program Details: If a faculty position that involves great teaching is your hope or ambition, Purdue's Biology Education Area (BEA) will help grad students achieve a competitive edge. BEA is for everyone who is interested in teaching, in teaching-related research, or in understanding the importance of community, a sense of belonging, and cultural relevancy for educating the next generation. We are committed to helping all students develop the advanced reasoning and problem-solving abilities that are so critical to new discoveries in the life sciences and to society.

S an Francisco State University San Francisco, CA

M.S. Biology

Department:   Biology

Link:   http://www.sfsusepal.org/

BER Contact Person:   Kimberly Tanner,  [email protected]

Administrative Contact Info:  Kimberly Tanner,  [email protected]

Should applicants have non-BER (traditional bench-work) research experience? Not needed

Do students need a non-BER chapter or publication (traditional bench-work) in their dissertation? Not required

Do students have to be co-advised by a non-BER faculty member in Biology? NA

Do BER graduate students have to fulfill different requirements than non-BER graduate student in this department?   No

Core Curriculum: NA

Additional Information: We welcome individuals from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds who are interested in biology education research.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL

M.A. or M.S. in Biology

M.S. in Education

Link: http://www.siue.edu/artsandsciences/biologicalsciences/graduate/index.shtml

BER Contact Person: Maurina Aranda ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info: Peter Minchin ([email protected])

Program Details: Students can complete a non-thesis or thesis plan, where they participate in biology and education coursework and do graduate-level research in biology education. No prior biology or education research needed to apply.

Syracuse University Syracuse, New York

Link: http://biology.syr.edu/graduate/programs.html

BER Contact Person: Jason R. Wiles ([email protected])

Program Details: BER Ph.D. students complete all regular requirements for the Ph.D. (or M.S.) in Biology and engage in biology education research in post-secondary contexts for their thesis or dissertation research. Their degree is in Biology. Apply to the Biology Graduate program and indicate interest in the Wiles lab.

Ph.D. in College Science Teaching

Department: Department of Science Teaching (College of Arts and Sciences)

Link: http://sciteach.syr.edu/

Administrative Contact Info: John Tillotson, Department Chair ([email protected])

Program Details: The doctoral degree program in College Science Teaching serves those who aspire to teach STEM content courses (Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, Engineering and/or Mathematics) at the collegiate level and who desire to conduct discipline-based STEM education research focused on teaching and learning in undergraduate and graduate environments. The doctoral program centers on deepening student’s STEM content-area knowledge, as well as their understanding of evidence-based STEM teaching and learning in collegiate classrooms. Applicants are expected to either hold a Master's in their content discipline or earn one concurrently.

This posting last updated:   May 29, 2020

Applications due:   Rolling admissions

Non-BER experience:   Recommended

Thesis/Dissertation:   Can be all BER or not

Rotations:  No, Students should contact PI of interest

Core Curriculum:   Ethics, Statistics, Seminar Committee : Can be all BER

Other Comments:  Funding is available to support M.S. and Ph.D. students.

Texas State University , San Marcos, TX

M.S. in Biology, Aquatic Resources, Population & Conservation Biology, Wildlife Ecology; Ph.D. in Aquatic Resources & Integrative Biology

Link:  https://txstbiologyeducationresearch.wp.txstate.edu/  and  https://www.bio.txst.edu/programs-offered/graduate-programs.html

BER Contact Person:   Kristy L Daniel ( [email protected] ) OR Carrie J. Bucklin ( [email protected] )

This posting last updated:  Sept 12, 2023

Applications due:   Doctoral - August 15; Masters - June/October/April 15th  

Non-BER experience:   Not needed  

Thesis/Dissertation:   Varies based on PI  

Rotations:   No, students should contact PI of interest first

Core Curriculum:   Varies by degree  

Committee:    A ll advisors and comittee members can be in BER  

Do BER graduate students have to fulfill different requirements than non-BER graduate student in this department?  No

Texas Tech University   Lubbock, TX

M.S. in Biology, Ph.D. in Biology

Link:     https://depts.ttu.edu/biology/academics/graduate/programs/   

BER Contact Person:   Lisa Limeri; [email protected] 

Administrative Contact Info:   Lou Densmore; [email protected]

This posting last updated:   Sept. 15, 2021

Non-BER experience:   Not needed

Thesis/Dissertation:   All chapters should be in BER

Rotations:  No, Students should contact PI of interest first

Core Curriculum:   TBD Committee : There is no departmental preference, but will likely be BER and non-BER faculty on committee 

Tufts University   Medford, MA

Ph.D. in STEM Education, M.S. in STEM Education

Department:  Department of Education or Department of Biology

Link:   STEM Ed program:  https://as.tufts.edu/education/prospective/graduate/STEM-education ; PhD in Biology:  https://as.tufts.edu/biology/current-students/graduate-programs/phd-biology

Administrative Contact Person:   STEM Education contact: Michelle Pare ( [email protected] ); Biology contact: Douglas Purdy ( [email protected] )  

This posting last updated:  November 16, 2021

Applications due:  Ph.D in Biology (Dec.1): Ph.D in STEM Ed (Dec. 15)

Non-BER experience:  Not needed

Thesis/Dissertation:   Both models are possible depending on program and individual interest  

Rotations:   Students do rotations in BER and non-BER in Biology program only  

Core Curriculum:   Candidates in both programs take both Biology and Education courses.  

Committee:  A  non-BER committee member is REQUIRED  

Do BER graduate students have to fulfill different requirements than non-BER graduate student in this department? Please describe the differences, if any, between BER and non-BER students in your department.  BER students in the Biology department must take at least 2 classes in Education

Other Comments:  Tufts has two ways to do BER. One pathway is through the STEM Education program in the Education Department and the other is through a concentration in Biology Education Research in the Biology Department. Candidates should contact Julia Gouvea to discuss which option is the best fit.

University of Colorado Boulder, CO

Ph.D. in Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology

Department: Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB)

Link: https://www.colorado.edu/mcdb/graduate-program

BER Contact Person: Jenny Knight ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info: [email protected]

Program Details: Students are admitted into the program, not into a particular lab. All students are required to do 4 rotations in the department; one of these can be with a BER researcher. Students choose a lab at the end of the first year, and can then take additional education courses and become part of the CU DBER community as they work to establish a research project and take their comprehensive exams (1st semester, 2nd year). Students who already have a masters in biology or significant laboratory research (not education research) experience are more likely to be admitted. Best course of action if interested is to directly contact Jenny Knight.

Department: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Link: https://www.colorado.edu/lab/corwin-reach/

BER Contact Person: Lisa Corwin ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info:  Cora Fagan ([email protected])

Program Details: All students are welcome to apply. A masters in biology, and specifically in an ecology or evolution related topic, is strongly preferred for applicants to the PhD program.

Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

BER Contact Person: Andrew Martin ([email protected]) and Lisa Corwin ([email protected])

Program Details: Training program is flexible but we encourage students to engage in education research focused on issues in ecology and evolution. Graduate student cohorts will be mostly biological (rather than education) research focused. Many of the faculty and graduate students in the program pursue scholarship of teaching and learning and a few have federally-funded biological education research programs.

University of Colorado Denver   Denver, Colorado

Ph.D. in Integrative Biology

M.S. in Integrative Biology

Department:  Department of Integrative Biology

Link:   https://clas.ucdenver.edu/integrative-biology/academics/graduate-programs#admissions-79

BER Contact Person:  Laurel Hartley ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info:  Ginny Ware ([email protected])

This posting last updated:  November 6, 2019

Applications due:  December 1 + off cycle applications

Thesis/Dissertation:  Can be all BER or not

Committee:  Can be all BER

Other Comments:  This department considers BER to be a subdiscipline of Biology.

University of Georgia Athens, Georgia

Ph.D. in a field of life sciences (e.g. biochemistry, cell biology)

Department: Integrated Life Sciences

Link: https://ils.uga.edu/ and https://ils.uga.edu/faculty/by-interdisciplinary-groups/biology-education-research/

Applications due:  12/1

BER Contact Person:  Julie Stanton  ( [email protected] )  

Administrative Contact Info:   Julie Simmons ( [email protected] )  

This posting last updated:  November 16, 2023

Should applicants have non-BER (traditional bench-work) research experience?

Do students need a non-BER chapter or publication (traditional bench-work) in their dissertation?  Not required or recommended, but students may choose to do so

Do students do rotations?  Rotating in BER labs only is an option (currently 8 possible labs), but students could choose to include non-BER rotations

If students have to take core classes, please list and indicate which if any are BER and which are non-BER. If no requirements, type "NA". Depends on the department chosen

Do BER graduate students have to fulfill different requirements than non-BER graduate student in this department?  No required differences, but BER students will likely choose to include elective courses in education.

Program Details:  The purpose of Biology Education Research at UGA is to promote research that requires integrated thinking about biology and university education and to develop interdisciplinary scientists to address cutting-edge questions in our field. Graduate students in the ILS program may choose to rotate with multiple faculty whose research focuses on Biology Education. Students who select Biology Education Research may choose to focus their thesis solely in this area or to include a dual-focus in life science research. The student and advisors will collaborate to develop a mentoring arrangement, training plan, and research objectives that will best prepare each student for their career goals. Note: We suggest reaching out to potential mentors prior to applying to the ILS program.

University of Massachusetts Lowell Lowell, Massachusetts

M.S. in Biology: Education, Communication and Outreach Option

BER Contact Person: Naomi Wernick ([email protected])

Program Details: Graduates of the Master of Science in Biological Sciences: Education, Communication and Outreach option will gain expertise in the biological sciences, while also taking appropriate coursework in education, psychology, and business that is tailored to their desired career. This program would be a great fit for students with career interests in education, curriculum development, as well as life science and sustainability training. Students selecting from this option would have a choice of completing coursework only, or coursework with a project or thesis; a project or thesis could be in biology or biology education depending on future career plans. This is a relatively new program and the website is still being updated. Please contact Naomi Wernick with any questions.

University of Mississippi University, MS

Department:  Biology

Link:   https://biology.olemiss.edu/programs/graduate/  

Type of Degree offered:   Ph.D. in Biology, M.S. in Biology  

Applications due:  January 15

BER Contact Person:   Dr. Sharday Ewell ( [email protected] ); Dr. Mariel Pfeifer ( [email protected] )

Administrative Contact Info:  Dr. Jason Hoeksema;  [email protected]

This posting last updated:  4/03/2024

Do students do rotations?  Rotations are an option, but not required.

If students have to take core classes, please list and indicate which if any are BER and which are non-BER. If no requirements, type "NA".  NA

Do BER graduate students have to fulfill different requirements than non-BER graduate student in this department?  There are no formal differences in degree requirements for BER and non-BER graduate students. However, BER students do have options to pursue additional coursework in a content area and bench research experience.

Program Details:  Applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Ewell and/or Dr. Pfeifer before submitting a formal application to discuss the program and process in more detail.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lincoln, Nebraska

M.S. in Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Entomology, or Natural Resources with Specialization in STEM Education Research

Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Entomology, or Natural Resources with Specialization in STEM Education Research

Department: Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Entomology, or Natural Resources

Link: https://biochem.unl.edu/graduate-program-overview https://biosci.unl.edu/prospective-graduate-students https://entomology.unl.edu/grad https://snr.unl.edu/gradstudent/

BER Contact Person: Biochemistry: Tom Helikar ([email protected]); Biological Sciences: Brian Couch ([email protected]); Entomology: Doug Golick ([email protected]); Natural Resources: Jenny Dauer ([email protected]), Joe Dauer ([email protected])

Applications due: Varies by department

Program details: UNL hosts a robust cross-disciplinary community of STEM education scholars. Graduate students pursuing biology education research obtain a degree from their respective life sciences department and can obtain an additional Specialization in STEM Education Research. Students have flexibility in the balance of biology versus education coursework/research they pursue based on their individual backgrounds and career interests.

Link: https://colsa.unh.edu/biological-sciences or https://mypages.unh.edu/mla1011

BER Contact Person: Melissa Aikens ([email protected])

Program Details: Students can pursue an MS or a Ph.D. in Biology under the Integrative and Organismal Biology option, though students applying for the PhD program are strongly encouraged to have a Master’s degree in a life science discipline. Students apply to work in specific labs, so it is important to contact potential advisors early in the application process. Projects can be entirely based within biology education research, or students can be co-mentored on projects that involve both biology education and basic science research. Biology education graduate students at UNH have the opportunity to interact with a supportive community of discipline-based education researchers in chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

University of Northern Colorado Greeley, Colorado

Ph.D. in Biological Education

Link: https://www.unco.edu/nhs/biology/

BER Contact Person: Emily Holt ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Info: Cindy Budde ([email protected])

Program Details: All students in our doctorate program have two pedagogical requirements regardless of the topic of their research: (1) take a biology-specific graduate course in pedagogical practice at the collegiate-level and a biology-specific graduate course in learning theories; and (2) do a supervised teaching experience where the student serves as the primary instructor of a semester-long course, under direct supervision of the usual course instructor. Within this degree program, the research topic of the dissertation may be bench, field, or education research (or a blend of several, as appropriate). For the master’s program, biology education-focused students are encouraged to take both of the graduate courses listed above and the research topic of the thesis is biology education-focused. Students are admitted directly into faculty labs, thus advised to reach out to faculty who share common biology education research interests.

University of Rhode Island Kinston, RI

Department:  Biological Sciences

BER Contact Person:  Angela Google ,  [email protected]  

Should applicants have non-BER (traditional bench-work) research experience?  

Not needed.

Do students need a non-BER chapter or publication (traditional bench-work) in their dissertation?  

No, all chapters should be in BER.

Do students do rotations? No, students should contact PI of interest

Core Classes: BER co urses: Educational Research Methods, Qualitative Methods, Quantitative Methods, Learning Theories, & Theoretical Frameworks in STEM education. Non-BER courses can be selected based on the Biological and Environmental Science specialization the students choose.

Do students have to be co-advised by a non-BER faculty member in Biology? No, all advisors and comittee members can be in BER

Do BER students fill different requirements than non-BER?  BER graduate students will have to take BER core courses to support their research project. The amount of program credits required are the same as non-BER.

Other details:  Angela Googleam, the BER contact, is advertising for a graduate student in her research lab specifically for a grant funded project.

Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI

Ph.D. in Science Education: Biology

Ph.D. in Science Education

Department: Mallinson Institute for Science Education

Link: https://wmich.edu/science/doctoral

BER Contact Person: Charles Henderson ([email protected])

Administrative Contact Person: Kathleen Drzewiecki ([email protected])

This posting last updated: January 28, 2020

Rotations: There are multiple science education faculty that students can work with. Selection is usually done after 1-2 years in the program.

Core Curriculum: Required core classes in science education and research methodology (qualitative and quantitative)

Other Comments:   Please see web site for program details. Contact me with any questions

Society for the Advancement of Biology Education Research is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Website by Nicasio LLC

• UC Irvine Home Page

Doctoral Programs

Departmental doctoral programs.

The School of Biological Sciences offers graduate training in a collaborative environment with several schools and graduate programs. This provides excellent research training and professional development for graduate students pursuing the doctorate. Training opportunities include broad areas of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences including Neuroscience, Immunology and Pathogenesis, Cancer Biology, Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Systems and Computational Biology, Genomics, Structural Biology, Ecology, and Evolutionary Biology.

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers direct admission to the PhD program. However, the other BioSci departments offer admission through a gateway disciplinary program such as CMB or INP.

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is home to 38 faculty and about 60 doctoral students. Research in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology uses a range of methodologies spanning field studies, experimental approaches, and computational approaches. Students and faculty have easy access to field sites that include marine, desert, and California chaparral communities. The faculty have diverse interests including evolutionary biology, population genetics, genomics, behavioral ecology, physiology, and global change biology. Faculty in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology have extensive collaborations with scientists in neuroscience, molecular biology, genomics and microbiomes, global climate biology, systems biology, mathematics, as well as with faculty at other institutions.

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers admission directly to a departmental graduate program with full financial support. Students initiate research with a faculty thesis advisor while they take required coursework and complete other degree requirements. Departmental programs offer an excellent opportunity for students that have decided to work in a specific area or with an individual faculty supervisor

University of California, Irvine Student Learning Outcomes for Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, PhD

School of Biological Sciences PLOs

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology M.S./Ph.D.

PLO1: Core Knowledge

• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of central concepts in the biological sciences
• Understand the current concepts in ecology, evolutionary biology, and organismal physiology
• Demonstrate knowledge of a specialized discipline within ecology and evolutionary biology sufficiently to carry out substantive independent research

PLO2: Research Methods and Analysis

• Read and critically evaluate the scientific literature
• Formulate hypotheses based on current concepts in the field
• Design, conduct, and interpret their independent research projects
• Understand the range of tools appropriate for research in their sub-field
• Understand and follow research ethics

PLO3: Pedagogy:

• Communicate effectively to large and small groups in pedagogical settings including teaching, research seminars, and other formats
• Identify and effectively deploy suitable technologies for use in all aspects of instruction

PLO4: Scholarly Communication:

• Review and discuss relevant literature and their significance
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed publications and in a dissertation
• Communicate research results effectively through oral presentations at scientific seminars, conferences, and other venues
• Make clear and cogent oral presentations, including effective use of technology

PLO5: Professionalism

• Write compelling abstracts describing their research for consideration at research conferences
• Prepare oral presentations suitable for presentation at a research conference
• Make effective contributions to research teams and learning seminars
• Make effective contributions to department, university, community, and professional service
• Mentor junior researchers (e.g., undergraduates, beginning graduate students)

PLO6: Independent Research

• Develop their own research projects that meet high standards of theoretical and methodological rigor with lasting impact
• Produce scholarship that is comparable in scope and format to articles that appear in leading peer-reviewed journals in ecology, evolutionary biology, and organismal physiology
• Supervise junior researchers (e.g., high school students, undergraduates, beginning graduate students) effectively

Learning Outcomes by Department

Ecology and evolutionary biology, phd, neurobiology and behavior, phd.

Neurobiology and Behavior M.S./Ph.D.

• Understand the current concepts in molecular biology, biochemistry, and biomedical sciences
• Demonstrate specialized knowledge of cellular and molecular biology sufficient to carry out substantive independent research
• Produce scholarship that is comparable in scope and format to articles that appear in leading peer-reviewed journals in molecular and biomedical sciences

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, PhD

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry M.S./Ph.D.

• Master current concepts in molecular biology, biochemistry, and biomedical sciences
• Acquire specialized knowledge of cellular and molecular biology sufficient to carry out substantive independent research

PLO2: Research Methods and Analysis 

• Design, conduct, and interpret experiments to complete an original research project
• Understand the range of tools appropriate for research in the specific sub-field
• Appreciate and adhere to research ethics

PLO3: Pedagogy: 

• Communicate effectively to small and large groups in pedagogical settings such as teaching and research seminars

PLO4: Scholarly Communication: 

• Review and discuss relevant literature and its significance
• Complete an individual development plan (IDP) at the time of entering the MBB program (Fall quarter of the 2 nd year) and update it annually
• Submit fellowship proposals to private and governmental agencies to solicit independent funding for graduate research
• Anticipate and meet the needs for professional transitions in a timely fashion (prior to degree completion)
• Write compelling abstracts describing research for consideration at research conferences

PLO6: Independent Research 

• Effectively supervise junior researchers (e.g., high school students, undergraduates, beginning graduate students)

Interdepartmental Doctoral Gateway Programs

Gateway programs offer admission to the doctoral programs affiliated with the Schools of Biological Sciences, Medicine, Physical Sciences, Engineering and Information & Computer Science. Students enroll for the first academic year while they do lab rotations and take required coursework. Then, students select a thesis advisor and transfer to a department and complete remaining degree requirements. Gateway programs offer students excellent opportunities to perform laboratory rotations with any of a large number of faculty participants in that program, and in many areas of biological sciences.

Cellular Molecular BioSciences

The PhD program in Cellular & Molecular Biosciences (CMB) at UC Irvine provides ideal training to launch the careers of talented researchers in diverse fields of biological and biomedical sciences. With five different study focuses, the CMB PhD program gears future scientists to be ready for a diverse field.  The program offers a rigorous but flexible curriculum with an extensive choice of laboratories and allows students to tailor their training to individual interests and goals. Outstanding facilities, a collaborative culture, a commitment to diversity, and guaranteed on-campus housing all contribute to a productive graduate experience. Applicants receive full financial support that covers tuition, a generous stipend, and health insurance.

For more information, please visit the CMB website.

Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program

Neuroscience is an inherently broad and multidisciplinary area of scientific pursuit and scholarship. It has intellectual links to fields as diverse as developmental and cell biology, molecular biology, physiology, pharmacology, anatomy, psychology, computer science, and physics. The substantial breadth of Neuroscience is one of its strengths as a discipline, and one of the features that makes it an attractive and important area for graduate study. The Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program (INP) provides a vehicle for meeting the diversity and challenges of graduate training in such a broad discipline. Neuroscience faculty from several departments and schools that represent many broad areas of research participate in the INP. Students may train with any participating faculty member and are exposed to a variety of approaches before deciding on a research area for focused dissertation work. After the initial year of academic coursework and laboratory rotations, students join the more specialized graduate program of their chosen thesis advisor.

Mathematical, Computational, and System Biology

The goal of UCI’s program in Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology (MCSB) is to provide students from a variety of academic backgrounds with doctoral training suitable for research careers in the nascent field of Systems Biology. The program emphasizes in-depth classroom study, interdisciplinary research rotations, and individualized advising. The MCSB Program is supported by funding from UCI’s Graduate Division, by a National Institute of General Medical Sciences grant to the UCI Center for Complex Biological Systems, and an NIH Training Grant.

The program begins with an initial “gateway” year, known as the Mathematical and Computational Biology (MCB) program, during which students receive basic training in principles of biology, as well as in mathematics, engineering and computer science. Students also participate in research rotations, workshops, and directed reading of the Systems Biology literature. Upon successful completion of the MCB year, students select a thesis advisor and complete the doctorate in departments throughout the biological, physical and information sciences and engineering. Students also have the option to complete a Doctorate in Mathematical Computational and Systems Biology directly from the MCSB program. The MCSB Gateway program provides complete financial support to admitted students during the first year, which includes an annual stipend, as well as full tuition and fee remission, including health benefits.

Related Doctoral Programs

• Links to related doctoral programs

Pharmacological Sciences Doctoral Program

Cognitive Sciences Doctoral Program

• Links to departmental doctoral programs

Developmental and Cell Biology

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

Neurobiology and Behavior

Note: Only the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers direct admission to their PhD program. The 3 other BioSci departments offer training opportunities after entering an interdisciplinary gateway program such as CMB, INP or Mathematical Computational and System Biology.

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Doctoral Studies

The School of Biological Sciences offers 2 distinct graduate programs:

• Ph.D. program with the Salk Institute
• Joint Doctoral Program with SDSU

The UC San Diego Biological Sciences program is a partnership between the School of Biological Sciences and the Salk Institute for Biological Studies . This creates a powerful and closely linked intellectual community, unified by the broad discipline of biological sciences.

Our programs boast over 100 faculty who provide a supportive and stimulating environment to enable highly talented individuals to develop the skills and experience necessary to become world-class scientists.

Graduate News

Hhmi gilliam fellowship to andrea sama and jazz dickinson supports new edi initiative.

Fellowship funding paves the way for a May 10 keynote address on issues of health equity in the Latinx community

Graduate Student Andrea Sama and Assistant Professor Jazz Dickinson have been awarded a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Gilliam Fellowship, which is awarded to graduate student-advisor pairs in recognition of outstanding research and a commitment to build a more inclusive scientific ecosystem.

• Ph.D. Program
• Joint Doctoral Program (SDSU)

Quick Links

• Salk Institute
• Graduate Student Handbook

Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS) is an area of study within the Division of Medical Sciences, a unit based at Harvard Medical School that coordinates biomedical Ph.D. activities at the Longwood Medical Area. The Ph.D. Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS) offers training in the biosciences, built outward from core training in contemporary genetics, biochemistry, and molecular, cellular, and mechanistic biology. BBS provides a rigorous, nimble biomedical education, equipping trainees with tools to bring about scientific breakthroughs and to launch entrepreneurial paths in academics, industry, and education.

The PhD program in Biology provides both a broad background knowledge base and an in-depth study of a specialized area of biology. Students can choose to pursue a concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology or Molecular Microbiology.

The PhD program in Biology emphasizes close interaction between graduate students and faculty in developing the intellectual and experimental skills required for creative independent research. To be considered for admission to the doctoral program, a student must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree, preferably in a biological science. Individuals with degrees in other natural sciences may be considered, depending on their interests and background.

A minimum GPA of 3.000 for all graduate work is required for the award of the PhD degree. All regulations of the Graduate School regarding maintenance of academic standing apply.

The Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology Group studies questions related to organismal development, aging, regeneration and repair. Our unifying theme is an interest in discovering how organisms build and rebuild tissues during development, after injury, and during aging. Studies in worm, fish, axolotl, mouse, and human tissue culture are providing insights into the development, function, and aging of multiple organ systems. We use genomic and proteomic analyses, and biological imaging approaches, to understand the roles and regulatory networks underlying tissue development and repair.

Biomechanics, Neurobiology, and Behavior Group pursues distinct interests, with a special emphasis on motor learning and control, biomechanics, circadian rhythms, neurogenesis and neural regeneration. Animal models run the gamut from jellyfish and termites to fish and human subjects. Research threads include the social behavior of insects, the neural architectures underlying rhythms, movement and goal-directed behaviors in humans and model organisms, and adult neurogenesis and neuronal regeneration in teleost fish.

Molecular Microbiology Group is interested in understanding the rise of multidrug resistant pathogens. Hence the focus of this group intersects strongly with that of the University in the areas of health and security. The Molecular Microbiology group investigates the bases of dormant persister cells, uncultured bacteria, composition and function of the human and environmental microbiomes, mechanisms underlying mutagenesis, regulation of the DNA damage response, and bacterial development including biofilm formation. Further strengths include the development of platforms for the discovery of new antimicrobials.

• Concentrations in Cell and Molecular Biology or Molecular Microbiology
• Bachelor’s and Advanced-degree entry are possible
• Boston residence requirement of one year of full-time graduate work on campus

Our graduates pursue careers within academia and beyond.

• Booz Allen Hamilton
• Albert Einstein College of Medicine
• Agios Pharmaceuticals
• Masschusetts General Hospital

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $100
• Unofficial transcripts for all institutions attended (Official transcripts required upon acceptance of admission offer)
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE General – recommended, but not required
• Proof of English Proficiency for all applicants

Our priority deadline is December 1 with rolling admissions until March 15, based on space available.

We only admit degree program students for fall semesters.

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Biology

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BBS PhD Program

In this section :.

• Biomedical & Biological Sciences (BBS) PhD Program
• Current Students
• Prospective Students
• Research Areas
• Combined DVM/PhD Program
• DVM seeking a PhD
• PhD Program

Biomedical & Biological Sciences PhD Program

The Cornell University Biomedical and Biological Sciences (BBS) PhD Program is an interdisciplinary umbrella program housed within the College of Veterinary Medicine offering high-level basic and biomedical research training, a flexible curriculum, and clinical or translational research opportunities.

With publications in such front-line journals as Nature and Science , externally-sponsored grant and contract support of nearly $36 million in 2020, and prestigious fellowships from national health and science organizations, the exceptional BBS faculty have established one of the premier health and medical research institutions in the country.

During the first year, PhD students rotate in three labs to get a range of research experiences and to select a faculty mentor who is willing to accept the student into their lab and provide funding for the duration of the research project. BBS students are able to create their own research programs and choose from among the more than 1000 graduate faculty members across the University to serve on their Special Committees. 

All first year BBS students will take an introductory courses which covers key areas including: grant writing, public presentations, design of experiments, interpretation of data, and literature analysis.

When you apply you will choose a  concentration  that most interests you:

Immunology and infectious disease, molecular and cellular medicine, population medicine and epidemiology, translational medicine, zoology and wildlife conservation.

The BBS Program is committed to enhancing our culture by providing full participation of all members of our community. Currently, 25% of our current PhD students identify with an underrepresented minority ethnicity, while 34% of our PhD students are international.  BBS fosters a nurturing, student-centered community of scholars that is accessible, engaging and committed to insuring that all our graduate students reach their full potential in research, teaching and professional development.

Our BBS Graduate Student Council members are available to help answer your questions about graduate student life in the BBS Program at Cornell. Feel free to connect with them today!

All students admitted to the BBS Program will be funded for the duration of their program (contingent upon satisfactory performance).  Funding covers tuition, health insurance and stipend. An application to the BBS program is considered an application for funding. For 2023-24, students received a stipend of $43,326/year.

Applications are reviewed starting in December, and all admissions decisions are made by mid-February.  Admissions decisions are based on the quality of the student’s prior academic and/or professional career, the fit of his/her research interests with funded faculty our program, and the admissions committee’s assessment of the student’s ability to successfully complete doctoral level work.

The BBS program also houses two optional minors (which are open to all Cornell Graduate Students): 

Minor in genomics, minor in stem cell biology, internal documents.

2024 Best Online PhD in Biology [Doctorate Guide]

If you’re interested in the sciences of living things, pursuing your PhD in Biology might be a strategic next step on your educational path.

The biological sciences help us learn more about how our world operates, and this fascinating field has many specialties to choose from. Whether you want to focus on the human body or explore the living world around us, there are many options for you to consider.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Let’s take a look at how earning a doctorate degree in biology might further your educational and professional goals.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Biology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

George Mason University

George Mason University’s PhD in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology program is available 100% online. Students are required to complete 72 total credits. Class options include Systems Biology, Biological Data Analysis, Biological Sequence and Genome Analysis, Research Ethics, Numerical Methods for Bioinformatics, and more. Courses are delivered synchronously.

George Mason University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers a PhD in Marine Biology and Oceanography. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for fall, spring, and summer terms. The degree can be earned on campus or online. Students are usually able to finish within 5 years. Graduates have gone on to careers in the government and academia.

Nova Southeastern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences. The program includes 4 tracks: Physiology and Developmental Biology, Infection, Immunity, and Epidemiology, Diagnostics and Therapeutics, and Biomedical Genomics and Bioinformatics. Each track can be tailored to specific research interests.

Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers a hybrid program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction (Track in STEM) that requires the completion of 63 credit hours. Much of the coursework is completed online, but in the summer, students take on-campus intensive courses. Prospective students must have a master’s degree to apply.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers a PhD in Anatomical Science Education. Students must complete at least 90 credit hours to graduate. Coursework includes Medical Human Embryology, Science Curriculum Development, Medical Histology, Medical Cell Biology, Essential Human Anatomy, and more. Students must also successfully defend a dissertation.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Biology. This program is intended for students with at least 2 years of professional teaching experience. The full degree is only available at the main campus, but select courses are available online or at regional campuses.

The University of Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

PhD in Biology Online Programs

Biology is the study of living things, and there are many specific areas in biology in which doctoral students can concentrate.

Some of these biological concentrations include:

• Cellular and molecular biology
• Ecology and environmental biology
• Evolutionary biology and genomics
• Epidemiology
• Forensic biology

Biological studies can range from the microscopic world of the cell to understanding how our existence can impact our future.

Those who have earned their Ph.D. in Biology are able to examine our world on a very different level to understand the “how” and “why” of life as we know it. Those who earn their doctorate degree in biology may continue their careers in research, analytics, or field work. Many PhD graduates even go on to become educators for the next generation of biology students.

The field of biology is expansive, so you’ll often take a certain number of core classes, electives, and courses that are specific to your concentration. Many schools offer several areas of focus to help you further define your path.

Pursuing a doctorate degree in biology can provide you with an opportunity to hone your research and analytical skills while selecting a focus for your studies and potential career path.

Biology Careers and Salaries

The variety of degree programs in biology can help open the doors to a range of professions in related fields. Your career path will likely depend on your area of concentration, field work, and skill sets, among other factors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are some professions related to the field of biology, along with their median salaries.

Many biology doctoral students focus on scientific research in a variety of specialties. For instance, some may aim to develop cutting-edge medical intervention, while others want to connect with wildlife and our environment on a cellular level.

Students who pursue a PhD in Biology are often encouraged to gain experience in the field as part of their curriculum. This could help you narrow down the field and concentration of your studies and potential career path.

Biology Doctorate Curriculum & Courses

Since there are so many areas of study within a doctorate degree in biology, you’ll often take courses that apply to your specific concentration.

While coursework can vary between PhD programs in biology, here are a few courses you may encounter:

• Evolutionary Ecology : This course allows you to learn more about theories and evidence surrounding the evolutionary process and its impact on various species.
• Understanding Genomics in Medicine : In this course, you’ll get in-depth exposure to the Human Genome Project, and you’ll study how diseases impact us on a genetic level.
• Cell Biology : From macromolecules to microscopy, this course will provide detailed analysis of how cells work.
• Animal Behavior : Animal behavior has a variety of origins, from evolutionary to neurological, and you’ll review evidence for all behavior.
• Biology of Parasites : Parasites and pathogens are common dependent species of living organisms and are the focus of this course.
• Regional Biology : In this course, you’ll examine how environmental factors, such as heat or freezing temperatures, can impact local biology.
• Developmental Genomics : This course examines how genes and molecular interaction impact biological development.
• Analytical Biotechnology : This course combines technology and analytical skills to examine biomolecules and report findings.
• Cell Proliferation : This course studies the processes through which cells divide or multiply.
• Freshwater Biology : In this course, you’ll examine freshwater sources, such as ponds and lakes, to examine the overall ecology and health of biological factors there.

Your courses can also help you develop research skill sets for the dissertation component of your program.

Online PhD in Biology Admissions Requirements

PhD programs in biology can have different admissions requirements. You can visit a school’s website or call their admissions office to verify the specific criteria for their application process.

For many schools, doctoral applicants are asked to provide the following:

• GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
• Bachelor or masters degree in biology or related field like an online masters in biostatistics
• Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of intent

As part of the application process, you may also be asked to complete an application, attend interviews with those in the department, and present prior thesis work.

Online Biology PhD Programs Accreditation

When reviewing various schools that offer a doctorate degree in biology, you may wish to only pay attention to institutions that hold regional accreditation. Programs that have earned accreditation have been examined for their educational excellence. This means the courses and instructors have earned a positive reputation for their impact on students.

Qualification for future professional memberships and licenses may be tied to participation in an accredited program. Additionally, many employers indicate that a degree from an accredited school is necessary for employment. This could also impact the publishing of your studies. To verify a school’s accreditation status, you can visit the website of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .

Financial Aid and Scholarships

If you’re interested in financial assistance for your doctoral degree, there are various options available for students who qualify.

To see if you’re eligible for government assistance, you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. This federal program provides need-based financial aid to students across the country. Student loans are the most common form of federal aid. Additionally, you may wish to check with your prospective school regarding scholarships or grants available to students who are pursuing biological studies.

There may be opportunities for assistance based on your concentration or prior academic work. Some employers also provide tuition assistance or reimbursement to workers who are pursuing higher education.

What Can You Do with a Doctorate in Biology?

Earning a doctorate degree in biology can help you advance your professional qualifications and skill sets in your chosen area of concentration.

Biological sciences impact much of the world around us. For instance, some graduates choose to go into the field and research various species directly, while others work in a lab, concentrating on genetic development or microbiology. After graduation, some professionals choose to continue their research or pursue a role as an educator and mentor. Others go on to become biochemists, biophysicists, or medical scientists.

Biologists are employed in a variety of sectors, and your chosen doctoral track will impact your qualifications for various career paths.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Biology?

The length of time it takes to complete a PhD in Biology can depend on several factors, including any field work or dissertation work that is part of the program.

Generally speaking, a doctorate degree in biology takes between 3 years and 5 years to complete with full-time study. This also depends on the number of credit hours required by the program. Part-time enrollment will often extend your time to completion.

A program that does not ask students to complete a dissertation can potentially be completed in 3 years with full-time study.

Is Getting a PhD in Biology Worth It?

Yes, getting a PhD in Biology is worth it for many professionals. Those with a PhD in Biology have unique insight into how our lives are impacted by our own genetics, parasites, environmental factors, and more. This may be why careers in biological fields are on the rise.

Overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 8% job growth for life, physical, and social science occupations over the next ten years. A PhD can also help you qualify for positions in research and academia. Selecting a career path in biological sciences can allow greater insight into why our world is the way it is.

Earning Your Doctoral Degree in Biology Online

If you have a significant interest in the biological sciences, earning your doctorate degree in biology online can allow you to develop your expertise in the specialty of your choosing.

A PhD program will also enable you to contribute research to the field. Many doctoral students go on to pursue positions in research and academia, while others pursue advanced roles in the field. A number of accredited universities now offer both masters degree in biology online programs as well as doctoral programs online, catering to working professionals.

If you’re ready to get started on the next steps in your education and career, you can check out available biology doctoral programs offered online by accredited schools.

Biology Graduate Program Ranked in U.S. News & World Report

More than 30 University of Iowa colleges and programs were recognized among the best in their field in the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings including Biology's graduate program! Click on the link above to see the full list. 

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Graduate School

Biochemistry (ph.d.), biochemistry (ph.d.) | graduate.

Our Biochemistry doctoral students are at the forefront of biochemical research and molecular medicine, examining biological mechanisms underlying human disease; they are finding new ways to detect and attack diseases and immunological disorders like cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular disease.

Graduates of the Ph.D. in Biochemistry program at Howard's Graduate School are prepared for careers at top research universities and senior-level research positions in biomedical and related industries. The program's key strengths in molecular microbiology, proteomics and genetics, bioinformatics, and drug design and discovery make us a nexus for collaborative investigations between biochemistry researchers and clinicians. You'll learn to apply biochemical techniques, including NMR spectroscopy, crystallography, and single-molecule methods as well as contemporary approaches to cell culture and genetic analysis to answer key questions about the pathogenesis of specific diseases and the development of effective drug therapies. You'll also enjoy the close mentorship of faculty who are committed to your professional development. Our faculty are experts in several areas of biochemistry, including analysis of molecular structure, proteomics and genetics, tumor biology, structural biology, enzymology, RNA catalysis, stress response, and RNA modification. As you advance in the program, you'll become increasingly involved in laboratory research and the critical analysis of biochemical literature. Our graduate seminar series offers a venue to present your early-stage research. Students may pursue a dual M.D./Ph.D. degree.

Program Snapshot

      ❱  72 credit hours        ❱  Full-time       ❱  On-campus format       ❱  Degree: Ph.D.       ❱  Dual degree: M.D./Ph.D.

Application Deadlines

Spring 2024 entry:         ❱  No spring entry 

Fall 2024 entry:         ❱  Dec. 1, 2023 (early deadline)       ❱  Feb. 15, 2024 (priority deadline)       ❱  Apr. 15, 2024 (final deadline)

Applicants should submit their applications as early as possible for earlier consideration of departmental funding opportunities. Applicants have until the final deadline to apply. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the admissions cycle. 

Dr. Zaki Sherif

Dr. matthew george, jr., angela wilson, program details.

• Degree Classification: Graduate
• Related Degrees: M.D. / Ph.D., Ph.D.

Admission Requirements

Application for admission.

• Online GradCAS application
• Statement of purpose/ Statement of academic interest ( 500-1,000 words )
• GRE scores  not required
• Official transcripts sent to GradCAS
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent 
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Autobiographical statement ( 500-750 words )

GRE Required?

Gre preferred minimums.

• GRE Verbal Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Analytical Writing: N/A

GPA Required Minimums

• Overall GPA minimum: 3.0
• Undergrad GPA minimum: 3.0

Prerequisite Courses

The following course prerequisites are required. Applicants are required to have at least a B average in these prerequisites.   No expiration date for recommended prerequisites.

• Biology (college-level courses, 8 semester credit hrs)
• General Chemistry (college-level courses, 8 semester credit hrs)
• Organic Chemistry (college-level courses, 8 semester credit hrs)
• Elementary Physical Chemistry (college-level course and lab, 4 semester credit hrs)
• Physics (college-level courses, 8 semester credit hrs)
• Calculus  (college-level course, 3 semester credit hrs)

Reference Requirements

Evaluator type accepted:

• Professor (Required)
• Supervisor/Manager
• Other 

Evaluator type not accepted:

• Family Member

Multiple outstanding fully-funded PhD positions available in Biological Sciences at GenEvo in Germany

Offer Description

Thinking of doing a PhD at the interface of  Molecular & Evolutionary Biology ? 

The Research Training Group 2526  "Gene Regulation in Evolution“ (GenEvo) ,  which is funded by the DFG (German Research Foundation), is offering projects on all levels of organismic complexity, from changes in genes and proteins to the evolution of symbiotic and parasitic behavior. As a GenEvo PhD student, you will join a community of passionate scientists who are applying a broad spectrum of methods on model and non-model organisms.

GenEvo brings together scientists from evolutionary and molecular biology. It aims to solve a number of recent research questions and to train a new , interdisciplinary generation of PhD students in subjects that are rarely taught in combination : evolutionary inference, epigenetics, gene regulation, omics techniques and bioinformatics.

The PhD students get  training and guidance in both research fields  to ensure an optimal collaboration within the RTG for best results and personal development.

For detailed information about each PhD program, including specific requirements and other important details, we recommend visiting the following links:

1.  Mechanistic insights into the evolution of circadian gene regulation

2.  Co-option of cilia proteins in gene regulation

3.  Geometric epigenetic adaptation

4.  Epigenetics and sex chromosomes through the lens of evolution

5.  Sex- and caste determination during development in the termite Reticulitermes flavipes

6.  The role of small RNAs in transgenerational plasticity of a clonal plant upon herbivory

7.  Molecular manipulation of host phenotype via regulatory interference

8.  The role of epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of division of labor in the ant Temnothorax longispinosus

9.  Gene regulation and evolution of dormant states in bees 

Job Information

• Organisation/Company:     PhD Programme "Gene Regulation in Evolution"
• Department:                       Institute of Molecular Biology
• Research Field:                  Biological sciences
• Researcher Profile:            First Stage Researcher (R1)
• Country:                             Germany
• Application Deadline:        15 Jul 2024 - 12:00 (Europe/Berlin)
• Type of Contract:               Temporary
• Job Status:                         Full-time
• Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?: Not funded by an EU programme
• Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?:    No

What we offer:

• Exciting, interdisciplinary projects in a  vividly international  environment, with English as our working language
• Advanced training  in scientific techniques and professional skills
• Access to state-of-the-art  Core Facilities  and their technical expertise
• 14 funded PhD positions  (employment contract)
• A lively community of34 PhD students supported by 28 Principle Investigators
• Collaboration with the  International PhD Programme (IPP)  at IMB with more than 200 PhD students from 40 different countries

Within the programme the  Faculty of Biology of Mainz University  (JGU) and the  Institute of Molecular Biology  (IMB) collaborate — both  modern research institutions  located on the bustling campus of Mainz University in Germany. With a population of 210,000, of which about 40,000 are students, the city of  Mainz  is  charming  and  open-minded and within easy reach of cosmopolitan  Frankfurt and its international airport , the Rhine valley region with its  castles, vineyards, and nature reserves , and the equally picturesque cities of Wiesbaden and Heidelberg.

Requirements:

Are you an ambitious, young scientist looking to  push the boundaries of research  while interacting with colleagues from  multiple disciplines and cultures ? Then joining GenEvo is your opportunity to  give  your scientific career a flying start!

All you need is:

• Master or equivalent
• Motivation to contribute to the forefront of science in molecular and evolutionary biology
• Interactive personality & good command of English
• 2 letters of reference

The deadline for applications is 15 July 2024.  Interviews will take place on 9-10 September 2024. Starting date will be 1 January 2025.

For more details on the projects offered and how to apply via our online form, please visit  https://www.genevo-rtg.de/application

Additional Information

• Website for additional job details:     https://www.genevo-rtg.de/application

Work Location(s)

• Organisation/Company:       PhD Programme "Gene Regulation in Evolution"
• Country:                               Germany 
• City:                                      Mainz
• Postal Code:                         55128       
• Street:                                   Ackermannweg 4
• Where to apply:                      https://www.genevo-rtg.de/application

E-Mail: [email protected]

Website: EURAXESS WORLDWIDE

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She Just Earned Her Doctorate at 17. Now, She’ll Go to the Prom.

Dorothy Jean Tillman II of Chicago made history as the youngest person to earn a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health at Arizona State University.

By Alexandra E. Petri

When Dorothy Jean Tillman II successfully defended her dissertation in November 2023 to earn her doctoral degree from Arizona State University, she couldn’t wait to share the news with her best friend.

“It was a surreal moment,” Dr. Tillman said, “because it was crazy I was doing it in the first place.”

Dr. Tillman, at only 17, became the youngest person to earn a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from Arizona State’s College of Health Solutions, all before she was eligible to vote. Earlier this month, Dr. Tillman, now 18, took part in Arizona State’s commencement ceremony and delivered remarks as the outstanding 2024 graduate at the College of Health Solution’s convocation.

Lesley Manson, program director for the doctorate of behavioral health at Arizona State and Dr. Tillman’s doctoral chair, said Dr. Tillman displayed extraordinary perseverance, hard work and dedication for her young age, tackling every challenge head-on.

“She can serve as a real role model,” Ms. Manson said.

Dr. Tillman, called D.J. by her family and friends, was an early bloomer. She grew up in Chicago and was home-schooled from a young age, first in a group setting through online classes, and then by her mother, Jimalita Tillman, a single parent with a background in community theater.

Dr. Tillman was part of a gifted program before transitioning to home-schooling. Jimalita Tillman continued her daughter on an accelerated track: By the time she was 8, she was taking high school classes. While most 9-year-olds were learning math and reading, Dr. Tillman was starting college online.

At the time, they lived with Jimalita Tillman’s mother, Dorothy Wright Tillman, a civil rights activist who worked alongside the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and was a Chicago alderman. Dr. Tillman is her grandmother’s namesake (hence the II at the end of Dr. Tillman’s name).

During her early college days, Dr. Tillman’s classroom was often a Starbucks in Chicago, and her days began as soon it opened, she said. Her go-to order was an iced peach green tea with lemonade.

“Around the time when kids went to lunch, we’d be closing the computer,” said Dr. Tillman, who said her discipline and focus come from her grandmother.

Because of her age, Dr. Tillman lived at home while pursuing her higher education, and most of her coursework was online — a challenge for a self-described social butterfly. “I do love meeting new people and talking to people and understanding them and how their brains work,” she said. She found other ways to stay connected with friends through after-school activities.

At 10, she earned her associate degree in psychology at the College of Lake County in Illinois. At 12, she received her Bachelor of Science in humanities at Excelsior College in New York, and at 14, she earned a Master of Science from Unity College in Maine. She chose those fields because they can help scientists “understand why people treat the environment the way they do,” she told Time for Kids in a July 2020 interview.

Ellen Winner, a professor of psychology at Boston College and the author of “Gifted Children: Myths and Realities,” said that children like Dr. Tillman have a motivational intensity she calls a “rage to master.”

“One of the reasons they push themselves is they have a high, innate ability of some kind, and so learning, in whatever they are gifted in, comes easily to them and it’s very pleasurable,” she said. Schools are often not equipped for such gifted children, she added, which may lead parents to home-school their children. The trade-off, she and some experts say, is missing out on socialization and learning with children their age.

“There’s no perfect solution to kids like this,” Ms. Winner said.

Jimalita Tillman said she was sure her daughter was finished with higher education after earning her master’s degree. Dr. Tillman had just launched an organization to support Black youth in Chicago interested in STEM and the arts called the Dorothy Jeanius STEAM Leadership Institute. It was 2020, just after the beginning of the pandemic.

She was surprised when her daughter said she wanted to pursue her doctorate, and even tried to dissuade Dr. Tillman. But Dr. Tillman wanted to help young people with their mental health. She told her mother to trust her.

“I had to follow her lead,” Jimalita Tillman, 42, said.

Dr. Tillman was accepted into the management concentration at Arizona State’s College of Health Solutions, an online doctorate program. Her thesis on developing programs to reduce the stigma for college students seeking mental health services was based on a study she conducted for an in-person internship at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. Dr. Tillman hopes her story resonates with girls who are talkative, outgoing “out-there kind of girls who are trying to figure themselves out but are very smart.”

“I want them to see someone who has taken that energy, sparkle and excitement and packaged it in a way that is classy and beautiful,” she said.

Dr. Tillman may now have her doctorate, but she’s also excited about teenage things — like attending a prom. On Saturday, she going as her best friend’s date to his senior dance. They’re taking an Escalade outfitted with stars on the ceiling, she said, a feature she requested and that her mother made happen.

Dr. Tillman has been focused on school and her professional pursuits, and she plans to host her institute’s summer camp again. Then, she said, she plans to take a beat and have a “fun teenage summer,” doing things she loves, discovering new hobbies and figuring herself out in the process.

“I want to focus on who I am,” she said.

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Approaches to Broadening Participation in STEM Graduate Education

About this event.

This webinar will provide strategies shown to be effective in broadening participation for STEM graduate students.  The webinar is targeted to current and prospective NRT Principal Investigators, as well as those seeking to increase graduate student diversity in a variety of STEM fields.

Additional resources

• Register in advance for the webinar here

Related program

Organizations.