phd biology education

Jump to main content

Biological Education

Doctor of Philosophy

Advance your career with a doctorate that combines research expertise with outstanding teaching ability and experience.

• Programs at the University of Northern Colorado
• Biological Sciences
• Biological Education PhD

Join a Pioneering Program for Biology Educators and Researchers

Recent graduates of UNC’s Biological Education Ph.D. program have a high job placement rate. Our program helps you stand out in the market by providing comprehensive training for positions in academia, government and the private and nonprofit sectors. In addition to offering strong opportunities for biological field and laboratory research and publication, our Ph.D. program provides extraordinary training in STEM education. You’ll graduate with an in-demand skill set that integrates research expertise with outstanding teaching ability and experience.

Established in the early 1990s, this pioneering program was among the first in the nation to emphasize the teaching of biology. You’ll get extensive hands-on experience as a teaching assistant and classroom leader, culminating in the opportunity to develop and teach your own college course. University biology and other employers place high value on this training. Many of our Ph.D. candidates have multiple job offers waiting for them at graduation.

Degree Details

Credits required:, location/delivery:.

Cost Estimator

Degree Option

Ph.d. in biological education.

UNC’s Ph.D. in Biological Education offers options you won’t find in most doctoral programs. Focus your dissertation studies on biological research or on the teaching and learning of biology, and enrich your education by working side-by-side with UNC's biology faculty who excel in both types of research.

Take the next step! Explore courses, costs and admission requirements.

Degree Requirements

Learn more about the Ph.D. Program

"The biology graduate program at UNC was a great fit for me. The PhD program provides a nice blend of science and science education. My skills as both a biologist and an educator were strengthened through my experiences. That doesn't happen in all graduate programs. I think that having a solid background in biology as well as a track record of successful teaching really helped me to stand out in the job application process. I feel I was well prepared for my immediate future as an Assistant Professor of Biology at a liberal arts college."

Your Future in Biological Education

Because of its inclusion of training in Biological Education, UNC’s Ph.D. program equips you to contribute to the future of STEM education. A broad national consensus on the need to improve outcomes in STEM education creates a broad range of employment opportunities in colleges and universities, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and the private sector.

Consider a Ph.D. in Biological Education if you:

• Are committed to biological research
• Love to teach
• Seek to further the goals of national STEM education policy
• Have an interest in expanding the frontiers of biological research

You’ll learn:

• Research methods in the area of your choice
• How to design and teach a college biology course
• Scientific writing and publishing

Sample courses:

• Advanced Genetics
• Immunology and Disease
• Conservation Biology
• College Biology Course Development
• Species & Speciation

Beyond the Classroom

Our Ph.D. candidates work as teaching assistants and all eventually design and teach an original course. In addition, many of our Ph.D. candidates gain experience as research assistants, working in fields as diverse as molecular biology, evolutionary biology, human health and biomedical science, biological pedagogy and other sub-disciplines.

Where can your degree take you?

• Tenure-track faculty position in a university biology department
• Conservation nonprofit or government agency
• Educational policy think tank
• Medical research institute
• Postdoctoral positions
• Biotechnology careers

Ready for what's next? Here's what you need to know.

If there's anything else we can do, be sure to connect with us . We're only a shout away.

Still not completely sold? We understand. Here's more information on costs and funding  and how to apply .

Look at you go! We're excited to meet you.

Request information

We'll send you some more details.

Plan a visit

There's nothing quite like walking on our turf. Take a virtual tour.

Contact UNC

Social media.

• UNC Overview
• Awards & Accolades
• Organizational Chart
• Strategic Plan
• Accreditation
• Student Consumer Information
• Sustainability
• COURSE CATALOG
• GIVE TO UNC
• Open Records Act

Page Last Updated: Today | Contact for this Page: Web Master

Privacy Policy | Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity/Title IX Policy & Coordinator

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

• Search This Site All UCSD Sites Faculty/Staff Search Term
• School Factsheet
• Faculty Honors
• Dean's Leadership Council
• Research Topics
• Academic Departments
• Initiatives and Units
• Facilities and Resources
• Undergraduate
• Student Success
• Contiguous BS/MS Program
• Concurrent Enrollment
• Co-Op Program
• Message from the Director
• Who are we?
• Faculty Expectations
• Get Involved
• Accountability
• Postdoctoral
• Instructional
• Professional Researcher
• Instructional Assistants
• Summer Session
• Alumni Spotlights
• Ways to Give
• Eureka! Scholars Program
• Units & Resources
• Directories

Ph.D. Program

The philosophy of the PhD program, along with the Affiliated Ph.D.  Program with the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, is to provide world-class research training in the basic biological sciences to equip a diverse group of trainees for a variety of scientific careers ranging from academia and industry to education, communication, or policy. Core principles of the program are to be student centered and attuned to the goals of the trainee.

The core curriculum focuses on development of core competencies and transferable skills in critical thinking, communication, and leadership. The first year prepares students for the core of the PhD program, the development of intellectual independence and creativity through original thesis research, guided by a thesis advisor and committee. Students have a high degree of flexibility in choice of thesis advisor through the rotation program. Throughout the program, there is strong emphasis on engaged mentoring through regular committee meetings, annual reports and Individual Development Plans.

As a central hub of the thriving San Diego biosciences community, the program maintains strong partnerships with other campus units and programs through joint faculty appointments, organized research units, and research collaborations, enabling a wide range of interdisciplinary opportunities . The mission is to conduct leading edge research in the basic biological sciences. Major areas of emphasis currently include structural biology, cell biology, developmental biology, neurobiology, immunology, microbiology, virology, plant biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Research in the School has emphasized studies using model organisms or in vitro mechanistic approaches, with human studies and clinical research concentrated in other departments or in the Health Sciences. Current and future areas of growth include quantitative biology, data science, and the biological consequences of climate change.

• Rigor, reproducibility, and responsibility as hallmarks of high-quality science
• Commitment to quality mentorships, student mental health, and well-being
• Equity, Diversity and Inclusion as integral to program admissions and retention
• Open science practices valuing multiple research outputs and holistic assessment of scholarly excellence
• Communication and outreach as key aspects of scientific training

As a doctoral program embedded in a large undergraduate instructional unit, our approach incorporates substantial training in teaching methodology and best practices. Our philosophy remains that teaching and research are interdependent facets of engaged scholarship.

• Curricular Requirements
• Training Programs
• Course Offerings
• Academic Advising
• Financial Support
• Professional Development
• Graduate Student Awards
• Graduate Student Representatives
• Student Directory
• Joint Doctoral Program (SDSU)

Quick Links

• Salk Institute
• Graduate Student Handbook

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.

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

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.

• Skip to Content
• Catalog Home
• Institution Home
• Graduate Catalog /
• School of Arts & Sciences /

Biology, PhD

The Biology Graduate Program represents many areas of biology, and interactions with a diverse group of colleagues provide opportunities to broaden every student’s thinking and make connections between different fields and scientific approaches. Areas of research include microbiology, cell biology, development, physiology, neuroscience, animal behavior, plant biology, genetics, computational biology, evolution, ecology and biodiversity. 

Each entering graduate student has the freedom to pursue topics ranging from the behavior of molecules to that of cells, organisms, genomes, and ecosystems. We encourage students to get broad exposure through lab rotations with any faculty member in the Biology Graduate Group. As students focus on more specific research interests, they tailor their graduate education accordingly, choosing courses from different departments and schools at Penn as appropriate.

Students complete most of their course work and lab rotations in the first year and then start their thesis research in the second year while completing their teaching requirement and preparing for their candidacy exams.  Students are then fully focused on thesis research by the end of the second year.  Students still have the option of taking additional courses in advanced years in order to enhance their graduate research.

For more information: http://www.bio.upenn.edu/graduate/

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs .

Required Courses

The total course units for graduation in this program is 13.5.

See the website for a list of electives:  http://www.bio.upenn.edu/graduate/handbook/academic-topics/course-requirements

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

Sample Plan of Study

Print options.

Print this page.

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

A PDF of the entire 2023-24 catalog.

A PDF of the 2023-24 Undergraduate catalog.

A PDF of the 2023-24 Graduate catalog.

• Skip to Main
• CGSB Faculty
• Affiliated Faculty
• People in History
• Genomics & Systems Biology
• Developmental Genetics
• Molecular & Cellular Biology
• Computational Biology
• Infectious Diseases and the Microbiome
• Evolution, Ecology & Environmental Biology
• Plant Genomics
• Undergraduate Program
• Master's Programs

PhD Program

• Graduate Student Awards
• Course Listings
• Programs & Activities
• Graduate Program Diversity
• Mitra Lecture Series and Fellows
• Conference for Undergraduate Research in Biology (CURB 2024)
• Resource Guides
• Rooms & Calendars

NYU Biology’s PhD program offers training in a broad range of biological research fields, including developmental genetics, genomics and systems biology, molecular and cellular biology, evolutionary biology, and infectious disease. Our dynamic and diverse community of faculty and graduate students engages closely on all aspects of scientific investigation. Strong mentoring relationships throughout the PhD program develop students’ abilities to independently design and perform research, write grant proposals, and communicate their findings effectively to a wide audience. The combination of cutting edge research, world class faculty, and a dedication to mentoring and career building skills for our PhD students defines the PhD program at NYU Biology.

Share this page

• 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.

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

Department of Biological Sciences

College of natural and mathematical sciences, phd and ms in biological sciences.

PhD Degree Areas of Specialization

• CDN: Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, and Neurobiology
• GBM: Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology
• EEB: Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior
• CBS: Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, and Systems Biology

PhD Degree Requirements

• 30 credits of graduate-level coursework
• At most 12 credits should be for thesis research (BIOL899). At least one research credit should be taken each semester after the student begins thesis research in an advisor’s laboratory
• One 700 level (3-credit) graduate seminar
• Research rotations (three)
• Two semesters as a teaching assistant
• Beginning with the second year, students are required to participate in a research seminar (journal club) every semester and to take one credit of research seminar (journal club) each year
• Original research directed by a research advisor and overseen by a committee knowledgeable in the student’s area of specialization

MS Degree Requirements

• At least 18 credits at the 600 or 700-level; up to six 400-level credits may be applied toward the required 30 credits, for courses approved by the graduate school (for example, BIOL 430 is an approved graduate course). Courses listed at both the 400 and 600 level must be taken at the 600 level. Research credits are not counted toward this 18 credit requirement.
• One 700-level graduate seminar
• Thesis: 6 credits of research and a Master’s thesis written and defended
• Accreditation
• Consumer Information
• Equal Opportunity
• Privacy PDF Download
• Web Accessibility

Subscribe to UMBC Weekly Top Stories

I am interested in:.

• I am interested in: Undergraduate
• I am interested in: Graduate
• I am interested in: Professional Masters

Search this website

Phd in biology.

Our Doctor of Philosophy in Biology equips students with the ability design and execute research projects, critically evaluate scientific literature, write manuscripts for publication, make professional presentations, become effective teachers and stay abreast of scientific progress in their areas of interest.

The PhD in Biology is conferred on individuals in recognition of their demonstrated ability to master a specific field of knowledge and to conduct significant independent, original research.

Graduate Catalog

Graduate Manual

Program Director

Laura R. Serbus Associate Professor; Graduate Program Director, Biological Sciences   305-348-2201   [email protected]  AHC1 219B

Department of Biological Sciences MMC: 11200 SW 8th Street, OE 167 Miami, FL 33199 Tel: 305-348-2201

BBC: 3000 NE 151st Street, MSB 350 North Miami, FL 33181 Tel: 305-919-5500 [email protected]

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.

• Faculty & Staff Resources
• Master’s and Professional Education
• PhD Education
• International Student Experience
• PhD Program Profiles
• Find Your Program
• Graduate Admission
• Financial Aid
• PhD Funding
• Living in Boston
• Health & Wellness
• Student Groups & Associations
• Kids & Family
• Master’s and Professional Students
• PhD Students
• Events and Programs
• Offices and Initiatives

PhD Profile for Biology

• My Allegheny
• Student Resources
• Office of the President
• Give to Allegheny

News & Updates

Bulletin updates.

No recent bulletin posts to show.

Department News

Allegheny College Student Selected For Public Policy and International Affairs Fellowship

Continue Reading "Allegheny College Student Selected For Public Policy and International Affairs Fellowship"

Allegheny Alumna Named Founding Dean for Admissions and Recruitment at Methodist University’s College of Medicine

Continue Reading "Allegheny Alumna Named Founding Dean for Admissions and Recruitment at Methodist University’s College of Medicine"

Allegheny College Graduate Studies At Columbia University To Better Human Rights

Continue Reading "Allegheny College Graduate Studies At Columbia University To Better Human Rights"

UChicago instructors, graduate and undergraduate students honored for exemplary teaching

May 16, 2024

The University of Chicago has honored 11 instructors, graduate and undergraduate students for their exceptional work as teachers. Nominated by undergraduates in the College, these winners demonstrated the ability to push students to think beyond the classroom, and to share their disciplines in exciting ways.

Hannah Lant, Thomas Newbold, Alan Parma and Keith Jonathan Ruskin have been awarded the Glenn and Claire Swogger Award for Exemplary Classroom Teaching, which recognizes outstanding teachers with College appointments who introduce students to habits of scholarly thinking, inquiry and engagement in the Core Curriculum—the College’s general education program.

Quan Duong, Casey Ferrara, Taylor Hains and Andrea Reed-Leal have been named the winners of the Wayne C. Booth Prize for Excellence in Teaching, awarded annually to University of Chicago graduate students for outstanding instruction of undergraduates.

And for the first time, three undergraduate teaching assistants have been awarded the College Undergraduate Student Prize in Undergraduate Teaching: Vincent Hou, Liam Pak and Laura Zielinski. 

Prize recipients were selected on the basis of nominations from students in the College. The prize itself was established in 1991 in honor of Booth, PhD’50, the late UChicago faculty member who was one of the 20th century’s most influential literary critics.

In addition to the Swogger Award, Booth Prize and Undergraduate Student Prize, five faculty members were recently awarded the Llewellyn John and Harriet Manchester Quantrell Awards .

Learn more about this year’s Swogger Award and Booth Prize recipients below:

Glenn and Claire Swogger Awards

Hannah lant, assistant instructional professor, chemistry.

Each year, Assistant Instructional Professor Hannah Lant teaches nearly 500 students, and cherishes getting to know each one. An instructor for several courses, including General Chemistry, a capstone lab for majors called “Experimental Physical Chemistry,” and a Core class designed for non-STEM students, Lant said she treats her students as colleagues, and collaborates with them to expand their knowledge and interests. 

“UChicago students are creative, curious, and resilient, and it is thus a pleasure to work with them,” she said.

The University of Chicago campus is another reason she deeply enjoys her work. Any General Chemistry textbook, Lant explained, will refer to at least several ground-breaking developments in chemistry that took place right here at the university. She appreciates that she can teach in the same setting where these experiments, which helped lead to the modern-day conception of the atom, occurred.

“It’s a wonderful thing to teach students, for example, about the world’s first self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction, and then be able to say, ‘it happened down the street,’” she said.

Whether she is teaching her non-STEM or her Experimental Physical Chemistry students, Lant guides them towards reaching the ever-rewarding ‘Eureka!’ realization. In these moments, she feels her students can most appreciate the challenges of lab work. 

At the end of the course, though, it’s the progress that matters most to Lant. She witnesses firsthand her students’ trajectory from tackling the basics of the subject to wading through much more complex ideas of chemistry. 

“As a professor, I can show them the road, but they ultimately are the ones to walk the path,” she said. “I like to encourage them on the last day to turn around and see how far they have come.”

Thomas Newbold, Teaching Fellow, Social Sciences Collegiate Division

Though history has always fascinated Thomas Newbold, it wasn't until he was a high school student at an international school in India that he first became interested in what he would now call "the kind of disorienting shock colonial conquest must have been." 

Newbold is now a historian of modern South Asia and the British empire, and oversees a variety of courses covering the history of India and Bangladesh in the colonial period. Currently, he also teaches the Core sequence titled Self, Culture and Society.

He said he finds the University of Chicago to be the perfect place to ask hard questions about temporality and colonialism due to its specific culture of scholarship. 

It's no surprise then that many of his courses, from those on colonialism in 19th century India to those in the Core, are centered around interpretations and engagement with primary source readings and archival materials. 

Through this process, Newbold hopes his students realize that historical arguments stem from the reconstitutive and interpretative efforts of those who advance them– a task that he hopes they undergo for themselves as students in his class.

One moment that best embodies both Newbold's teaching philosophy and the culture of open inquiry he loves about UChicago occurred in his Self, Culture and Society sequence, when students used propositions from social and political theorists  outside  of the prescribed curriculum to support their arguments in what he found to be a thoughtful and resourceful way.

"In both the humanities and the social sciences, there is a strong tradition of disciplinary self-reflexivity here," Newbold said, "which is to say, a sense of being part of a tradition of inquiry that first and foremost interrogates itself." 

Alan Parma, Assistant Instructional Professor, Romance Languages and Literatures

Language instructor Alan Parma brings a wealth of international experiences to his teaching. Originally from Brazil, Parma taught English before coming to the United States on a Fulbright Scholarship to teach Portuguese, which he now teaches in the College, along with Spanish.

His exposure to second language acquisition research inspired him to pursue a Ph.D. focused on how students best learn new languages. He said he feels very honored to have the opportunity to teach his language and represent his country and culture to the UChicago community. 

What sets UChicago apart for Parma is the students’ evident enthusiasm, which helps support a welcoming classroom setting.

“I love the dedication the students demonstrate to the subject matter, this makes classes more engaging and motivates me to do my best for the students,” he said. “I love getting to know my students on a more personable level, and teaching beginning language classes allows me to do so. At the same time, I can share some aspects of my life with my students, which creates a very friendly and open environment.”

One of Parma’s favorite recent moments was when a former student who had studied abroad in Spain visited his office, conversing entirely in Spanish.

 “He wanted to show me that one of my students had successfully used Spanish in a Spanish-speaking country. That was a big validation of the work I have been doing,” he said.

Parma said he aims to help his students see the value in their language studies beyond his classroom. 

“On the last day of class, I hope my students are able to perceive how much they have grown in their language studies and how much understanding the culture of another country can enhance their lives,” he said.

Keith Jonathan Ruskin, MD, Professor of Anesthesia and Critical Care

Keith Ruskin is a jack of all trades. When he’s not working professionally as an anesthesiologist or teaching medical students and undergraduates in the College, he’s probably doing research for the Federal Aviation Administration on air traffic control alarms. 

He says the operating room and the aviation environment are not so different – both are high-pressure, life-or-death work environments.

Ruskin, a professor of anesthesia and critical care, says his nontraditional path to medicine informed his varied interests, which in turn inform his teaching approach.

“I went to an engineering school and because of that I tend to approach problems with a different mindset,” Ruskin said. “That applies to my practice of medicine and also to my teaching. Rather than asking students to memorize facts that they’ll forget as soon as the exam is over, I try to get them to learn concepts through classroom discussion. I then ask them to apply those concepts to solve clinical problems.”

In addition to teaching medical students and residents, Ruskin teaches undergraduates in a class called “Conquest of Pain.” The course covers pain physiology and anesthetic mechanisms.

He said he treats his undergraduates just like he does his medical students and residents, as colleagues who are at an earlier stage in their careers. In his course, there are no tests, only reflective essays based on students’ interests, which allows undergraduates to pursue complicated medical issues of interest.

Ruskin said something that makes UChicago different from other universities is that its undergraduate campus and medical center are connected, meaning he is able to teach students at all levels. This also makes site visits possible, allowing undergraduates to see the concepts they are learning about put into practice, which Ruskin says is one of his favorite parts of the course.

“I bring the students into the operating room with me to see me in my ‘day job,’” Ruskin said. “They always enjoy meeting the patients and seeing how surgery, anesthesia, and pain management are actually done.”

Wayne C. Booth Prizes

Quan duong, chemistry.

As a TA for Organic Chemistry, one of the ways Quan Duong has taught his students is through a simple analogy: Legos. The comparison, he explains, helps them to “play” with the molecules and keeps the subject from getting dry. 

“By encouraging them to manipulate and combine these molecular Legos, they find joy in learning and thus remember reactions more effectively,” he said. “It transforms the classroom into a dynamic space filled with enthusiasm and discovery.”

Aside from his work teaching students, Duong also works in chemical biology. Incited by his fascination with DNA, he has researched gene editing, hoping to help discover solutions to molecular diseases. He specializes in mitochondrial DNA editing—a field that may hold the answer to revolutionizing human health in the future. 

Duong’s time as a TA has given him many memorable experiences. He recalled a panicked evacuation due to the spilled liquid of a broken thermometer—it was mistaken as mercury, but fortunately it was just alcohol. 

He said he has enjoyed conversations with students, during which they often share their most brilliant insights and strongest concerns. He attributes much of his approach to teaching to advice he received from a senior teaching assistant.

“Remember your own days as a student,” he said. “The challenges were real, and so was the pressure. Empathize with your students rather than placing unrealistic expectations on them.”

Duong said that if he could give his students a lasting message, it would be to continue their curiosity and courage that they have demonstrated throughout the lab. 

“Continue to piece together the puzzles of the world,” he said, “just like we did with our molecular Legos.”

Casey Ferrara, Psychology

Casey Ferrara has a background in human cognition and language. She started with an undergraduate degree in psychology and linguistics, with a focus on psycholinguistics and pragmatics and continued with a four-year research assistant position studying post-stroke aphasia. 

Her fascination with how humans think and communicate culminated in an eventual Ph.D. in psychology, focusing on cognition and multimodal communication through spoken language, sign language and gesture.

Her time as an instructor at UChicago has similarly spanned across many topics and disciplines, from teaching “Mind” in the social science Core to designing and overseeing a course called “'Human Communications” that explores the various ways humans create meaning through communication systems. 

Ferrara's teaching philosophy is rooted in an experience she had as an undergraduate student, when one of her linguistics professors referred to her class as “linguists.”

"This seemingly innocuous choice instilled in me a sense of legitimacy and confidence in my ability to contribute something of value to the academic community," she said.

Now, as an instructor herself, she invites students to take themselves seriously as scholars and scientists, and hopes to instill confidence in them by doing so. 

"In the classroom, I want students to see their questions as valuable and worth asking," she said. “All students bring with them a wealth of lived experience and are themselves members of communities and speakers of a language, and in my classes, students learn that the intuitions and ideas that arise from this are of value and can be examined and interrogated to reveal insights about how humans think and communicate.”

Taylor Hains, Ecology and Evolution

Taylor Hains teaches “Ecology in the Anthropocene” in the Ecology and Evolution department. His passion for nature and genomics shines through, fueling an innovative teaching approach that leaves a lasting impact on students: infusing levity and theater into the classroom experience.

“I’ve always loved nature and wanted to make sure my scientific work helped society and preserve nature,” he said. “I think being able to connect the material to jokes allows for the students to remember the material a lot easier because they remember laughing.” 

Hains is committed to creating an engaging and exciting learning environment, in which he consciously cultivates an atmosphere of curiosity. 

He is also a proponent of making the extra effort to connect with his students on a personal level. 

“The thing I learned from my own academic experiences is that if you’re going to be stuck in the classroom you might as well have fun,” he said. “I always tell my students that I am always here for you, do please don’t hesitate to email me if you need me. And, if you pass me on campus and don’t say hi, I will be very sad.”

Andrea Reed-Leal, Romance Languages & Literatures

To Andrea Reed-Leal, college classes are as much about creativity and enjoyment as they are about learning, and she brings that philosophy into her work teaching Spanish and Hispanic history and culture in the College.

“One of the meanings of the Greek word skholè, the root of the Latin schola, means ‘leisure,’” Reed-Leal said. “The school is thus associated with enjoyment, joy and free time. The classroom should be a space of joyful learning, where everyone feels their voices are heard and included.”

Her approach to her instruction has been formed by the many years she spent teaching abroad, which exposed her to new ideas and cultures. Ultimately, she came to specialize in her particular field by working as a research assistant to anthropologist Lisa Overholtzer at McGill University, in Canada, who specializes in the everyday practices of ordinary people in Postclassic and Colonial Central Mexico.

Since Reed-Leal is a Ph.D. student, her teaching work is just as much about learning as it is about teaching others, an experience she says she has been privileged to experience at UChicago. 

Along with the commitment and dedication of the UChicago students she teaches, Reed-Leal said she is proud of the communities that can form in the classroom, where she and her students can mutually support each other. 

“I will always remember that the first time a professor came to observe one of my classes as part of my pedagogy training, I was very nervous – and I guess everyone could tell – I noticed my students were particularly patient and engaged, supporting me in moving through the class as we always did,” Reed-Leal said. “I read this as a gesture of ‘we have your back, Andrea!’ This made me realize that during the time we spend together in the classroom we not only exchange knowledge but create a sense of community.”

College Undergraduate Student Prize

Vincent hou, biology.

A sequence of classes Vincent Hou took in his first year—“Molecular Biology of the Cell,” “Biological Systems” and “Biological Dynamics”—inspired him to pursue research in the life sciences. These courses, which are all part of the Advanced Biology sequence, are some of the most rigorous courses he has taken at the university. Now, he’s a lab TA for the very same sequence. 

Hou often tells his students about the historical context of experimental technologies and the rationale for experimental design. By discussing his own research as well, he equips them to not only ask questions of  what , but of  why . 

“Simply performing the labs according to the protocol without considering why these steps are performed is not very helpful for learning,” he said. “I hope this will make them better at designing studies of their own when they go into research themselves.”

A favorite memory of his from winter quarter is representative of the good times Hou seeks to bring to the lab. Hou recalled that he hadn’t had a haircut for months, so his students styled it into an “apple.”

“I directed the whole 4-hour fruit fly lab with it. This truly epitomizes the joy in my lab session,” he said. “You can see my smile through the mask!”

Hou is a biochemistry major and conducts research in a protein structure lab. Outside of his studies, he’s appreciative of the conversations he’s had with his peers, whom he always finds open-minded and unconstrained by practicality—he fondly remembers discussing Thomas Kuhn with an astrophysics major and an economics major. 

As a TA since his second year, though, he’s not only well-versed in the life sciences, but in thinking like a scientist, too. This has lasted with him throughout his education. 

“The main driving principle is to think before you act, especially in science,” he said.

Liam Pak, Economics

When Liam Pak began his collegiate experience, he was stuck abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with an eight-hour time difference separating him from the students and professors in Chicago he shared Zoom classes with. 

He said that the understanding and accommodation his professors offered him during this time is integral to his current approach as a teaching assistant, in which he tries to be as helpful and understanding as possible to his students.

Pak currently supports a course called  “Managing in Organizations” which he has enjoyed both as a student and as a TA a year later. 

"I was first interested in this class as I wanted to learn about how the likes of intuitions and unstructured experiences can deeply influence the effectiveness of managing a culture and individuals," he said. 

Assisting Prof. Alexander Todorov as he taught the course again this past Winter Quarter allowed Pak to revisit some of the examples he had already found to be incredibly interesting the first time over, ranging from psychological experiments to space expeditions.

The theories Pak encountered as a student, and now helps teach as a TA, form the foundation for his favorite feature of the UChciago experience – the friendships formed during group work on projects and problem sets late at night. 

“I remember a time when our group was working on homework which we began in the afternoon, thinking that we had all the time in the world. We ended up submitting one minute before the deadline! That is the sort of intense, shared working experience that really pulls a team together in a memorable way,” he said.

This and other activities like the 'Primal Scream,' another of Pak's fondest memories, emphasize the strong collaboration between students at UChicago that he finds to be particularly rewarding.

Laura Zielinski, Computer Science

Laura Zielinski took Honors Calculus on a whim as a first-year student, and found her academic passion by noticing the number of math tie-ins to computer science. Now as a TA for courses like “Formal Languages” and “Theory of Algorithms,” she has guided students through the theoretical underpinnings that tie the two disciplines together. 

“I really liked being a TA for this “Algorithms” since I felt I could help computer science students with the math and proof-writing aspect, and maybe make them actually enjoy it,” she said. 

Zielinski said that in the course of her education, she has learned that at least half of writing code or math proofs is making them readable and understandable. Writing skills correlate strongly with coding and proof-writing ability, so, surprising as it may be, writing clarity, organization, and argumentation are things she focuses on when teaching math and computer science students.

“The most important skill in every academic discipline is good, clear writing,” she said.

Next year, she is starting a Ph.D. in programming languages, a field of computer science that closely relates to math. 

Even though algorithms (in this context, designing computer programs to solve hard problems) aren’t directly part of the field of programming languages, she said it is an extremely important branch of computer science theory that she is also interested in. 

Some of Zielinski’s most cherished memories as a student include helping her friends move into their apartments at the beginning of every school year, jumping into Lake Michigan this January, and finishing second in the intramural Euchre tournament, she said. 

QUICK LINKS

Degrees and programs powered by experience

Undergraduate

NEWS, DISCOVERY, AND ANALYSIS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Explore our global campuses

Find unique opportunities for experience-powered learning and discovery.

Our hub for research and graduate education at the intersection of technology, security, and policy

Explore Arlington

Massachusetts

Established in 1898, our first campus is a comprehensive hub for learning, discovery, and urban engagement

Explore Boston

Home to world-class national security and defense research and a magnet for science-based startups

Explore Burlington

North Carolina

An engine for professional education in the life and health sciences

Explore Charlotte

Our hub in Europe, with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees—including a U.S./U.K. double degree—and world-leading network science research

Explore London

Graduate education and entrepreneurship programming to support the rapidly transforming finance and tech economies

Explore Miami

A vibrant center for coastal sustainability research and innovation

Explore Nahant

Our West Coast undergraduate campus offering unique entrepreneurship and social impact programming, and home to the Mills Institute

Explore Oakland

An engine for economic development with graduate degrees and research in technology, and home to the Roux Institute

Explore Portland

Graduate degrees and research focused on the region’s booming tech industry, and undergraduate summer programs

Explore Seattle

Graduate education for high-tech fields in the heart of California’s Big Tech region

Explore Silicon Valley

Preparing professionals to thrive in high-demand fields in North America’s third-largest tech market

Explore Toronto

Professional education aligned with British Columbia’s rising startup and high-tech ecosystem

Explore Vancouver

#LikeAHusky

Plenty of room to do your own thing. Many ways to feel like a Husky.

17 Division I teams, including varsity esports. 55 intramural sports, and 64 club teams. And a packed DogHouse on game nights. Go, Huskies! 

Take Action

Quick Links

Campus Locations

Today, a vanguard of donors is driving Northeastern’s historic $1.3 billion fundraising campaign. With initiatives that span the globe, accelerating outcomes, we’re creating a better world right now. Learn more about our mission

Copyright 2024 Northeastern University

It's great to be a Screaming Eagle!

Graduate Program Recruitment and Retention Specialist

• Evansville, Indiana, United States
• Professional / Salaried Staff

Title:  Graduate Program Recruitment and Retention Specialist

Division: Provost's Office

Department: Pott College of Science, Engineering, & Education

FLSA Status:  Exempt

Salary Range:  Annual Salary

EEO Job Group:  2 C8

Position Summary

The University of Southern Indiana is accepting applications for Graduate Program Recruitment and Retention Specialist.

The Graduate Program Recruitment and Retention Specialist is the professional administrator of the graduate programs in the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. Responsible for recruiting and retaining students in Pott College graduate programs to ensure program sustainability, advising students majoring in graduate programs, monitoring students’ academic progress, assisting students and faculty with class registration activities, and resolving issues related to student academic progress and fulfillment of graduation requirements.

Duties/Responsibilities 

• Work with internal and external constituencies to promote the program and develop an applicant pool of sufficient size and quality to ensure continuation of Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education graduate programs.
• Assess the unmet educational needs of the community and work with Graduate Program Directors to recommend courses of action to meet those needs.
• Assist Graduate Program Directors with evaluating existing policies and procedures to identify areas for improvement and make recommendations for changes.
• Serve as principal graduate programs representative to potential applicants, current students, faculty, staff, student workers and the general public regarding program policies, procedures, requirements, and goals.
• Serve as a liaison between the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education and its students, other academic departments, School of Graduate Studies, and the Registrar.
• Coordinate with School of Graduate Studies and Graduate Program Directors on applicant admissions (e.g., screening applicants for admission, reviewing academic records, and assists in making admissions decisions)
• Manage general office operations; utilize academic records to advise students concerning enrollment into appropriate courses, determine if enrollment exceptions are warranted, enter overrides and exceptions as needed, hold removals, academic probation/dismissal notifications, eligibility for graduation, transfers, reviewing licensure requirements for program specific applications, and exceptions to prescribed program with director approval, maintain student records, monitor student progress, make appropriate student referrals, and inform students of missing prerequisites or requirements.
• Provide academic, career and personal counseling to applicants and students; monitors student progress to ensure a successful graduate experience.
• Provide individual and open advising during the major advising periods and throughout the semester and attend orientation sessions each semester.
• Compile and interpret data for the Graduate Program Directors, Director of Educator Services, and the Pott College of Science, Engineering and Education Dean’s Office to aid in evaluating student progress and program effectiveness; works with Graduate Program Directors to recommend changes or improvements.
• Assist graduate students with basic technical support.
• Participate in graduate student recruiting activities, including career and graduate school fairs.
• Keep current with University and Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education policies, procedures, and curriculum changes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree
• Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, and electronic mail.
• Ability to make decisions independently.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organization skills in addition to the ability to coordinate multiple tasks, determine priorities, set deadlines, and complete projects.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Preferred Knowledge and Skills

• Master’s degree
• 1-3 years’ experience in recruitment and/or student support.
• Experience working with a student information system (e.g. BANNER, SLATE, etc.).
• Ability to successfully recruit students and promote Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education graduate program(s).
• Understanding of the community to be served by the each of the graduate programs.
• Demonstrated ability to assume academic advising responsibility.

About USI    

The University of Southern Indiana is a public higher education institution located on a beautiful 1,400-acre campus in Evansville, IN. We offer employees exceptional benefits! Benefits for this position include:

• Affordable medical, dental, vision, life and short term and long-term disability insurance plans.
• Retirement plan where the University makes the total contribution equivalent to 11% of annual salary.
• Full tuition fee waiver for employees/75% for spouses and dependent children.
• Vacation and sick time
• Holiday pay
• Free access to Recreation, Fitness & Wellness Center.
• Access to on-campus University Health Center and Dental Hygiene Clinic.

For more information about the benefits that USI offers, please visit www.usi.edu/hr/benefits .  

About the College

The Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education houses seven academic departments. Within those seven academic departments, two departments currently offer graduate programs, Teacher Education and Kinesiology and Sport. The Teacher Education Department offers a spectrum of Master of Science in Education degree programs and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. For additional information about the Department, please see: https://www.usi.edu/science/teacher-education . The Kinesiology and Sport Department offers a Master of Science in Sport Management. For more information about the Department, please see: https://www.usi.edu/science/kinesiology-and-sport . For more information about the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education, please visit https://www.usi.edu/science .

• Letter of application

Search Committee Chair:

If you have questions about the open position, please contact Dr. Tori Colson, search committee chair, at [email protected].

Best Consideration Date:

For best consideration, please submit materials before May 30, 2024.

Pre-Employment Screening

A background check will be required for employment in this position.

Authorization to Work in the United States

USI typically will not sponsor an employment-related visa for this position.

Interview Accommodations

Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please contact the manager of Employment at [email protected] or (812) 464-1840. Contacting the manager of Employment is intended for use in seeking disability-related accommodations only. For general applicant inquiries, contact Human Resources at [email protected] or (812) 464-1815.

EEO Statement

The University of Southern Indiana is an EEO/AA employer. All individuals including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply.

Recommended Jobs

Senior administrative assistant (mathematical sciences), director of housing and residence life, assistant men's basketball coach, instructor in criminal justice (one year temporary), adjunct in biology, assistant women's basketball coach, sign up for job alerts.