phd genetics requirements

Ph.D. Program

Graduate studies.

The Genetics Ph.D. program provides opportunities for graduate study in all major areas of modern genetics, including identification and analysis of human disease genes, molecular evolution, gene therapy, statistical genetics, application of model organisms to problems in biology and medicine, and computational and experimental approaches to genome biology.

An underlying theme in our Department is that genetics is not merely a set of tools but a coherent and fruitful way of thinking about biology and medicine. To this end, we emphasize a spectrum of approaches based on molecules, organisms, populations, and genomes.

We provide training through laboratory rotations, dissertation research, seminar series, didactic and interactive coursework, and an annual three-day retreat.

Students receive a competitive stipend ($51,600) for the 2023-24 Academic Year), tuition, health insurance, and a dental care stipend for a full four years. We also encourage students to seek additional fellowships, including but not limited to: NSF GRFP , NIH F31 , NDSEG , Stanford Bio-X fellowship , Stanford DARE , and Stanford CEHG Fellowship .

Lab Rotations

Students rotate through 3 laboratories during their first year in the Genetics Graduate Program. While most students start in Fall Quarter, students are encouraged to consider participating in the  Advance Summer Institute  for a smoother early transition into graduate school. There is a nomination & selection process. The department nominates, so if you are interested please let the department student services officer know. The program is not meant to be a source of summer bridge funding or simply an early rotation opportunity. There are many components to the program that require commitment of time and effort and the funding, reflects both the expectation of full participation and belief that participants should be compensated for these efforts. Office of Graduate Education does the selection for ADVANCE. There is no guarantee that if you are nominated that you will be of admitted into ADVANCE.

Rotations typically last one quarter each, but can be less and are contingent upon the faculty member agreeing to the rotation request. All Genetics students must rotate with at least 1 Genetics faculty member (primary or secondary appointment). Other rotations may be done with any Bioscience faculty.

While students may select a thesis laboratory after completing their third rotation, you can do more Selection of the dissertation research laboratory must be done with the faculty member's approval. Prior to committing to a dissertation laboratory, students are invited to discuss their selection with the Graduate Program Director. Students are welcome to join labs outside of the Genetics Department; if so, they will discuss with the Graduate Program Director whether transferring into that department would be beneficial.

Dissertation Research

Once a student selects a permanent laboratory, they begin their dissertation research that will last for approximately four years. All students are expected to publish at least one first-author paper about their research during this time period, and the work culminates with a thesis defense presentation and written dissertation. See the Genetics Student Handbook for more information.

Coursework, Qualifying Exams, and other Requirements

Students in the Genetics Graduate Program take the Qualifying Examination in the Fall Quarter of their second year of study. There are two parts to the exam, a written research proposal and an oral examination.

Ami Bhatt, Dylan Maghini, and collaborators from the University of the Witwatersrand visit with researchers and staff at the MRC/Wits Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit in Agincourt, South Africa.

Ami Bhatt, Dylan Maghini, and collaborators tour the MRC/Wits Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit labs and biobank facility in Agincourt, South Africa.

Service Requirement

Service and outreach are a critical component of a student’s development as a scientist, and offer unique opportunities to learn by interacting with individuals outside the Department. Students are expected to participate in a minimum of 60 hours of service and/or outreach work prior to defending their dissertation.

Supplementary Educational Activities

In addition to your courses, qualifying exams, and dissertation, the Genetics Department has arranged additional educational activities for students. These regularly occurring meetings are:

Current Issues in Genetics (CIG) Two people from the Genetics Department give 20-25 minute presentations about their current work at this weekly Friday meeting. Students in their third year and above are expected to present their work annually. This series gives students the chance to learn about the range of science going on in the department and provides a great opportunity to give formal presentations to peers and colleagues. 

Graduate Student Journal Club This weekly journal club is organized completely by graduate students from the Genetics and Developmental Biology Departments. At each meeting, one or two graduate students lead 30 minute discussions on their choice of a recent journal article. For the first three years of the Ph.D. program, each student presents once per academic year.

Refreshments are provided by the graduate students and reimbursed up to the current year limit. Reimbursement requires an original receipt to the Student Services Coordinator.

Frontiers in Biology  Every week, the Departments of Genetics, Developmental Biology, and Biochemistry host an external speaker through the “Frontiers in Biology” seminar series. First year students also take a course related to this seminar (GENE 215), where they discuss a relevant paper the day before and meet the speaker after the presentation. 

Frontiers is held most Wednesdays at 4pm in Clark Auditorium.

Other Seminar Series There are many other regular seminar series on campus that students choose to attend. Some of the most popular include:

Center of Law and the Biosciences lunchtime talks. See CLB events calendar or subscribe to the listserv

Evolgenome (organized by CEHG). See CEHG website or subscribe to the listserv

Teaching and Mentoring Academy Events. See TMA website or subscribe to the listserv

Discussing Developmental Data (3D). See events schedule

Biomedical Seminars. See events schedule or subscribe to the listserv

Requirements

Important forms.

Service Requirement Form Click Here

Other Important Info

Please examine the research interests and laboratory descriptions available from the Department Faculty page.

The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs maintains a list of open postdoctoral positions. This site also provides useful information to those considering postdoctoral positions at Stanford.

Human Genetics and Genomics, PhD

School of medicine, ph.d. program.

The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics Training Program provides a training in all aspects of human genetics and genomics relevant to human biology, health and disease. 

Advances in human genetics and genomics continue at an astounding rate and increasingly they are being integrated into medical practice. The Human Genetics Program aims to educate highly motivated and capable students with the knowledge and experimental tools that will enable them to answer important questions at the interface between genetics and medicine. Ultimately, our trainees will be the leaders in delivering the promise of genetics to human health.

The overall objective of the Human Genetics program is to provide our students with a strong foundation in basic science by exposure to a rigorous graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and biostatistics as well as a core of medically-related courses selected to provide knowledge of human biology in health and disease. 

This program is also offered as training for medical students in the combined M.D./Ph.D. program.  Students apply to the combined program at the time of application to the M.D. program. (See section entitled Medical Scientist Training Program).

Research Facilities

Research laboratories are well equipped to carry out sophisticated research in all areas of genetics. The proximity to renown clinical facilities of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, including the Department of Genetic Medicine, and Oncology Center provides faculty and students with access to a wealth of material for study. Computer and library facilities are excellent. Laboratories involved in the Human Genetics Program span Johns Hopkins University; consequently supporting facilities are extensive.

Financial Aid

The program is supported by a training grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. These fellowships, which are restricted to United States citizens and permanent United States residents, cover tuition, health care insurance and a stipend during year one.  Once a student has joined a thesis lab, all financial responsibilities belong to the mentor.   Students are encouraged, however, to apply for fellowships from outside sources (e.g., the National Science Foundation, Fulbright Scholars Program, Howard Hughes Medical Institute) before entering the program.

Applicants for admission should show a strong academic foundation with coursework in biology, chemistry and quantitative analysis.   Applicants are encouraged to have exposure to lab research or to data science.  A bachelor's degree from a qualified college or university will be required for matriculation.  GREs are no longer required.

The Human Genetics site has up-to-date information on “ How to Apply .” For questions not addressed on these pages, please access the contact imformation listed on the program page: Human Genetics and Genomics Training Program | Johns Hopkins Department of Genetic Medicine (hopkinsmedicine.org) .

Program Requirements

The program includes the following required core courses: Advanced Topics in Human Genetics, Evolving Concept of the Gene, Molecular Biology and Genomics, Cell Structure and Dynamics, Computational Bootcamp,  Pathways and Regulation, Genomic Technologies, Rigor and Reproducibility in Research, and Systems, Genes and Mechanisms of Disease. Numerous elective courses are available and are listed under sponsoring departments.

Our trainees must take a minimum of four electives, one of which must provide computational/statistical training.

The HG program requires the “OPTIONS” Career Curriculum offered by the Professional Development and Career Office.  OPTIONS is designed to provide trainees with the skills for career building and the opportunity for career exploration as well as professional development training

Human Genetics trainees also take a two-week course in July at the Jackson Labs in Bar Harbor, Maine entitled "Human and Mammalian Genetics and Genomics: The McKusick Short Course" which covers the waterfront from basic principles to the latest developments in mammalian genetics. The faculty numbers about 50 and consists roughly in thirds of JAX faculty, Hopkins faculty and “guest” faculty comprising outstanding mammalian geneticists from other US universities and around the world.

The courses offered by the faculty of the program are listed below. All courses are open to graduate students from any university program as well as selected undergraduates with permission of the course director.

Trainees must complete three research rotations before deciding on their thesis lab.  They must also participate in the Responsible Conduct of Research sessions offered by the Biomedical Program; starting at year 3, students must attend at least two Research Integrity Colloquium lectures per year. 

Our trainees participate in weekly journal clubs, department seminars, monthly Science & Pizza presentations as well as workshops given twice a year on diversity, identity and culture.

At the end of the second year, trainees take their Doctoral Board Oral Examination.  Annual thesis committee meetings must be held following successful completion of this exam.

Average time for completion is 5.3 years.

Graduates from the Human Genetics program pursue careers in academia, medicine, industry, teaching, government, law, as well the private sector.  Our trainees are encouraged to explore the full spectrum of professional venues in which their training my provide a strong foundation. Driven by curiosity and a desire for excellence, our trainees stand out as leaders in the chosen arenas of professional life. They are supported in the development of their career plans by a program faculty and administration who are dedicated to their success, and by a myriad of support networks across the Johns Hopkins University, many of which are provided by the Professional Development Career Office of the School of Medicine.

How to Become a Geneticist or a Genetic Counselor

The field of genetics focuses on the inborn qualities that are passed down from parent to child.

What It Takes to Work in Genetics

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Because of increasing demand for medicine that is tailored to individuals based on their DNA, demand for geneticists and genetic counselors is on the rise.

The essential qualities that people are born with – such as their natural appearance, emotional temperament and body constitution – are heavily influenced by their DNA.

Unfortunately, some individuals wind up with genes that either cause illness or make them more susceptible to becoming sick. This is what is known as a genetic disorder.

People who are interested in combating dangerous inheritable illnesses such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia may want to pursue a career as a genetic counselor or a geneticist. Both professions require education and training in genetics. However, one important distinction is that although a master's degree is usually sufficient for a career as a genetic counselor, a doctorate is typical among geneticists, with some opting for a medical degree and others choosing to obtain a Ph.D. degree in a genetics-related scientific discipline.

Geneticists and genetic counselors frequently collaborate in order to help people who have genetic health conditions such as a predisposition toward cancer or an intellectual disability, and they sometimes provide guidance to potential parents with a genetic disease who are wary of passing it along to the next generation. Below is a guide on how to become a geneticist or a genetic counselor, along with an explanation of the field of genetics.

What Geneticists and Genetic Counselors Do and How They Differ

A geneticist is someone who has a medical degree or a Ph.D. degree in science and received several years of specialized training in genetics via a postdoctoral program in the field. Some geneticists are physicians while others are not. Geneticists with medical training often see patients face-to-face and sometimes provide personalized therapies, whereas geneticists with a Ph.D. degree frequently work in diagnostic genetic testing laboratories.

In contrast, genetic counselors focus on helping people cope with the hardship of being at risk for or diagnosed with an inheritable health condition. "Genetic counseling is the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease," the National Society of Genetic Counselors explains on its website.

What Genetics Is All About

Geneticists and genetic counselors say that although genetics is related to biology and chemistry , it differs from both because of its greater focus on the clinical applications of scientific knowledge rather than so-called "knowledge for the sake of knowledge."

Marjan Champine, manager of genetic counseling at the Ancestry genealogy company, describes genetics as "the study of inheritance" and "the passing down of traits from generation to generation."

The genetic makeup of one person often has implications for that individual's entire family, Champine emphasizes.

Miriam G. Blitzer, a Ph.D.-trained geneticist and CEO of the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics – an organization that certifies genetics professionals and accredits genetics training programs – notes that genetics professionals have the potential to prevent newborns with phenylketonuria – a genetic condition known as PKU – from becoming gravely ill if the congenital health condition is identified early and treated effectively.

Blitzer, a professor within the genetics division at the University of Maryland School of Medicine , notes that the field of genetics is evolving extremely quickly due to rapid scientific advancement, which makes working in this discipline challenging and fulfilling.

"A perk is the excitement of a field that is changing all the time," she says.

Coursework in this field varies depending on the level of education and the type of genetics career desired. Although aspiring genetic counselors and geneticists can expect to take some classes on genetic science, future genetic counselors should expect to take courses where they learn about the art and science of counseling people. Postdoctoral programs for aspiring geneticists will include in-depth lessons about the particular career path that they are concentrating on, whether it is medically focused or laboratory-based.

Job Prospects for Geneticists and Genetic Counselors

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the number of genetic counselors employed in the U.S. will increase by 21% between 2019 and 2029 and reports that their median annual salary as of May 2019 was $81,880.

Geneticists say that there is growing demand for their skill set. According to a proprietary salary survey conducted in 2017 by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics – commonly known as ACMG – the median total compensation among physician geneticists who participated in the survey that year was $210,000. The median among responding nonphysician geneticists was $173,000.

Dr. Anthony Gregg, the president of ACMG – a professional organization that represents both geneticists and genetic counselors – notes that some regions of the U.S. have extreme shortages of geneticists and says the nation needs more people to enter the profession. The ACMG offers an abundance of online resources for students training for genetics professions, including a digital guide to careers in medical genetics.

Reasons to Pursue a Genetics Career

One of the wonderful aspects of working as either a geneticist or a genetic counselor, according to people with these jobs, is that the roles offer opportunities to help people in difficult circumstances.

Gregg, who is both an obstetrician-gynecologist and a medical geneticist, says that an excellent geneticist has both the technical expertise and the emotional intelligence to sensitively advise parents of children with birth defects. Talented geneticists can also tailor a patient's drug therapy to his or her unique genetic profile so that a drug that would be toxic to that patient won't be prescribed, Gregg says.

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Ph.D. in Genetics and Genomics

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 100
• Students: 64
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: November 30

Website:  http://upg.duke.edu

Program Description

The program provides a unified curriculum of study in genetics and genomics leading to the Ph.D. Areas of specialization include population and evolutionary genetics, microbial and viral genetics, human and mammalian genetics, developmental genetics, epigenomics, and plant genetics. This is an interdisciplinary program with faculty drawn from several departments (Biochemistry, Biology, Cell Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Immunology, Neurobiology, Pathology and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology) as well as from the Institute of Molecular Physiology.

• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline:  November 30

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Department-Specific Application Requirements (submitted through online application)

Writing Sample None required

Additional Components Optional Video Essay: How would a Duke PhD training experience help you achieve your academic and professional goals? Max video length 2 minutes; record externally and provide URL in application.

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

PhD in Human Genetics

We embrace diversity and welcome motivated applicants with backgrounds in diverse fields. Our doctoral program attracts brilliant local, national, and international students with undergraduate training and/or work experience in the biological, behavioral, and quantitative sciences.

Admissions Requirements

• US bachelor’s or graduate degree (or international equivalent) in a discipline related to the biological or behavioral sciences from an accredited college or university. GPA of 3.0 or greater is recommended.
• Introductory courses in genetics and either calculus or statistics are required; additional coursework in biochemistry and behavioral/social sciences is recommended but not required.
• Graduate Record Examination  (GRE) scores are optional. Students who choose to submit GRE or other standardized test scores (i.e. MCAT) can do so with the application for admission.

International Applicants

In addition to the above criteria, international applicants must adhere to additional requirements. 

Information for international applicants

Application Process

• Applications are twice per year, for Fall and Spring matriculation, although new students are strongly encouraged to apply for the Fall semester which matches the intended sequence of course offerings. There is no formal interview process, although the Admissions Committee may request to hold phone or video interviews with promising applicants to gather more information. Applicants wishing to visit the Department in-person are encouraged to do so after receiving an offer of admission.
• Internal applicants, e.g., current MS or MPH students, may apply to the doctoral program after two semesters in good academic standing. Internal applicants shall submit directly to the Office of Student Affairs a dossier containing (1) a cover letter/statement of purpose indicating the applicant's motivation for pursuing a doctorate in Human Genetics and justification for promotion to the doctoral program, and (2) at least two letters of recommendation from mentors/professors who can comment on the applicant’s recent academic and research performance. Internal applicants are strongly encouraged to have identified a willing research mentor prior to applying for promotion to the doctoral program.

Personal Statement

The personal statement provides an opportunity for the applicant to shape the narrative of his or her application. It should address the following questions:

• How have your experiences informed your decision to pursue a degree in Human Genetics?
• What qualifications and experiences have prepared you to succeed in your graduate work?
• Why you have chosen Pitt Public Health?
• What do you seek to gain from your graduate studies and how does this align with future career goals?

How to Apply

Applications for admission to the doctoral program are processed through the Office of Student Affairs at the Graduate School of Public Health. New applications are accepted through the  SOPHAS  system, the centralized application service for graduate schools of public health. Please note, SOPHAS routes applications to the School of Public Health only after all required materials are received. Applicants who have submitted applications may track their status online.

Application deadlines

SOPHAS Application Student Handbook Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More about HUGEN

Learn more about why you should choose Human Genetics at Pitt Public Health: Admissions Events

Admissions Questions

Noel C. Harrie Student services coordinator 412-624-3066 [email protected]

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PhD in Genetics & Genomics

For contact information, please visit the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics website .

The Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics aims to teach our students not only how to apply the approaches of hypothesis-testing genetics and hypothesis-generating genomics to biomedical research, but also how to function as active members of the scientific community who can clearly communicate ideas, critically evaluate biomedical research, and mentor others in scientific scholarship.

Learning Outcomes

The doctoral programs in Graduate Medical Sciences at BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine are designed to train scholars to be leaders in their respective fields of biomedical research. Trainees become fluent in their areas of specialization, as well as develop competencies that provide the foundation for lifelong learning and practice in their chosen field. Trainees will demonstrate and apply the professional and scientific skills necessary to benefit society. The program objectives are delineated below.

By graduation, a Genetics & Genomics PhD student will:

• Generate an original body of work in the biomedical sciences that reflects critical thinking and independent thought.
• Demonstrate competencies in advanced research skills and critical thinking.
• Develop the ability to communicate both through writing and orally within their chosen field of expertise, with specialists and non-experts.
• Demonstrate a commitment to professional development and continued learning in their chosen field.

Toward this end, we have designed a complementary set of degree requirements to meet these goals consisting of traditional coursework, journal clubs, seminar series, and a research proposal–based qualifying examination for PhD students. The coursework will be completed during the first two years of study. Students matriculate in September of their first year as Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS) PhD students, and they choose their degree-granting program at the end of their first year. The academic program requirements below reflect the combined program of study.

Please see the general description of the MD/PhD program for combined degree requirements.

Course Requirements

• GMS FC 708 Professional Development Skills
• GMS FC 711 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences I: Protein Structure, Catalysis, and Interactions
• GMS FC 712 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences II: Structure and Function of the Genome
• GMS FC 713 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences III: Architecture and Dynamics of the Cell
• GMS FC 714 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences IV: Mechanisms of Cell Communication
• GMS FC 715 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences V: Translational Genetics and Genomics or  GMS MM 710 Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine
• GMS FC 721 Statistical Reasoning for the Basic Biomedical Sciences
• GMS FC 764 Professional Presentation Skills
• GMS GC 716 Social, Cultural, and Ethical Issues in Genetics, ENG BF 752 Legal and Ethical Issues of Science and Technology,  or GMS GE 706 Deconstructing Systemic Bias: Where Biology Ends and Bias Begins
• GMS GE 701 Principles of Genetics and Genomics
• GMS GE 703 Genetics and Genomics Colloquium I
• GMS GE 704 Genetics and Genomics Colloquium II
• 4 elective credits

For MD/PhD Candidates:

• GMS GC 716 Social, Cultural, and Ethical Issues in Genetics, ENG BF 752 Legal and Ethical Issues of Science and Technology, or GMS GE 706 Deconstructing Systemic Bias: Where Biology Ends and Bias Begins

See Courses for detailed descriptions.

Laboratory Rotations

Our PhD candidates participate in a minimum of three laboratory rotations to ensure exposure to a variety of scientific approaches. These rotations will last 10 weeks each, with one during the fall semester and two during the spring semester. The rotations are organized during the first year of study while the students are PiBS students and before they officially join the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics. PiBS students begin their first year of studies in the fall semester and join their degree-granting program at the end of the spring of their first year. Due to time constraints, MD/PhD students will have the option of joining a dissertation laboratory after two rotations. The academic and research components of the program together typically take 5–6 years of full-time academic study to complete for PhD students, and 4–5 years for dual degree MD/PhD students.

Teaching Requirement

Upon successful completion of the core courses, PhD students serve as teaching assistants (TAs) for one of the program’s courses. The TAs will lead discussion and review sections as well as support exam and homework grading. The TA assignments will be made according to academic performance in the courses in question and with student input. Acting as a TA for one course will satisfy the teaching requirement for the PhD degree, but further teaching opportunities will be available for students who are interested in developing these skills.

The Qualifying Process

Successful completion of the coursework and rotations during the first two years of graduate study will prepare the PhD students to advance to PhD candidacy through the qualifying process. This process depends on the following sequence of events:

• Completion of all required core and elective courses with a passing grade (A to B– average for all courses, with the exception of 900-level courses [research credits], which are graded on a Pass/Fail scale).
• Skilled preparation of a 5–10-page, written, grant-style dissertation proposal based on the dissertation research. This portion of the qualifying process will satisfy the written qualification requirement of Graduate Medical Sciences.
• Expert performance in an oral examination based on the written proposal. This forum will test the student’s ability to think critically about the area of their dissertation research and about biological problems in general. The examining panel will also be free to explore outside topics in order to assess the student’s knowledge of genetics and genomics broadly. The examining panel will be chosen by the student and dissertation advisor based on related areas of expertise to the proposed dissertation research. The panel will be composed of five faculty members, three members who must be faculty of the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics and two additional members who are faculty members at Boston University but outside the program. The examining panel will be required to adhere to the written guidelines of the Qualifying Examination Format Committee to ensure equitable administration of the exam.

Dissertation Research

Upon advancing to PhD candidacy, graduate students will focus on their dissertation research. This research will be conducted under the supervision of their chosen graduate advisor. The student will be responsible for conducting a rigorous, in-depth program of investigation into an area of research that is within the scope of their graduate advisor’s expertise and interests. The student’s progress will be assessed continuously by the graduate advisor and annually by a Dissertation Advisory Committee. This committee will be composed of the student’s advisor and at least four other faculty members with a minimum of two faculty members from the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics and one division faculty member from an outside program. The Dissertation Advisory Committee will serve to provide outside perspectives on the research program.

While the student is conducting dissertation research, they are expected to actively participate in program seminar series, lab meetings, and other research activities of their dissertation lab. It should be noted that the Boston University Genome Science Institute hosts seminars, including talks from prominent scientists from other institutions as well as talks from scientists with overlapping interests to the program here at BU. Students also have the opportunity to interact more privately with visiting seminar speakers through organized student lunch forums. Students and post-docs also participate in a Research in Progress series of seminars that gives trainees an opportunity to share their research and to learn more about the science going on in the Genetics & Genomics community of Boston University. Furthermore, students will be expected to complete the certificate program in “The Responsible Conduct of Research” that is currently available to the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine  through a series of four 2-hour workshops.

Although the period of dissertation research will not be limited in maximal duration, it is the job of the Dissertation Advisory Committee to facilitate expeditious progress toward the PhD degree. Once the research has developed into several chapters of publication quality work, the advisory committee will ask the student to begin compiling their written dissertation, and a date for the Graduate Medical Sciences public seminar and formal dissertation defense will be scheduled. The public seminar will be delivered to a general audience of Graduate Medical Sciences faculty, students, and researchers. Later that day, the public seminar will be followed by a formal dissertation defense, which will occur behind closed doors in the presence of the Dissertation Advisory Committee. This committee will evaluate the student’s dissertation defense and written dissertation for satisfactory completion of the degree requirements.

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Department of Molecular and Cell Biology

Genetics and Genomics

Phd requirements.

The requirements outlined below apply to students pursuing the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular and Cell Biology with concentration in Genetics and Genomics (G&G AOC) with enrollment beginning in the fall of 2022 or later. Students who began enrollment prior to fall 2022 may follow these curriculum suggestions, or follow the Ph.D. requirements for the G&G AOC in effect at the beginning of their enrollment in the program (found here for students who began enrollment prior to fall 2018; and here for students who began enrollment from fall 2018 through fall 2021.)

General requirements for PhD students enrolled in the Genetics and Genomics AOC within MCB (note that the Graduate School requirements are in bold):

• Organize your committee (five faculty) and submit your plan of study by the end of the Spring semester of your first year.
• Complete a second year review by the end of the Spring semester of your second year.
• Take your qualifying exam by the end of August of your third year.
• Successfully passed the qualifying exam for PhD candidacy (also known as general exam/thesis proposal/prospectus) and filed the exam report with the graduate school.  Link to report form here.  
• Course credits (15 total): Defined as content-driven, interactive coursework in MCB or a closely-related field of study, as discussed with and approved by the major advisor and committee.  No class may be repeated to satisfy this requirement.
• Research credits (30 total): A minimum 15 credits of MCB research and/or special topics (such as MCB 6897) and a minimum of 15 credits of GRAD 6950.  These courses may be repeated to satisfy this requirement and to keep in good standing (you must register for a minimum of 6 credits each semester; MCB 6897 and GRAD 6950 may be used for this purpose) .

More details about the MCB PhD requirements for the first year can be found here.

Information about the PhD milestones for MCB can be found here.

Information on the General exam (dissertation proposal) can be found here.

Graduate school requirements for graduation can be found in the current graduate catalog

Course requirements and timeline:

1 st semester (Fall), you must register for:

MCB 5896-038 Introduction to MCB Research (3 credits)

MCB 5896-037 Investigation of Special Topics: Intro to MCB Faculty Research

MCB 5896-013 Rotations in MCB (3 credits)

MCB 5884-001 MCB Research in Progress (1 credit)

  2 nd semester (Spring), you must register for:

MCB 5801 Scientific Writing and Project Development for MCB Graduate Students

GRAD 5910 Responsible Conduct in Research

MCB 6897 Research, 3 credits (this can be served with your newly chosen faculty advisor or with the advisor overseeing a fourth, semester-long rotation if you opted for an extra rotation)

And for one of the following courses:

MCB 5426 Genetic Engineering and Functional Genomics (3 credits)

MCB 5219 Developmental and Regenerative Biology (3 credits)

Or, for students needing a more basic background in genetics and functional genomics you may instead take one of these courses following discussion with your advisor, the course instructor, and/or AOC head:

MCB 3201 Gene Expression (3 credits)

MCB 5896-037 Concepts of Genetic Analysis (3 credits)

In addition, you may register for:

MCB 5484 Current Topics in Genetics and Genomics (1 credit)

Prior to registering for courses for your third semester, you must discuss planned coursework with the AOC head and/or your faculty advisor.

3 rd semester (Fall), pick one didactic course:

MCB 5445 Genome Dynamics and Epigenetics (3 credits)

MCB 5452 Problems in Genetics of Eukaryotes (3 credits)

MCB 5217 Biosynthesis of Nucleic Acids and Proteins (3 credits)

MCB 5621 Molecular Biology and Genetics of Prokaryotes (3 credits)

In addition to one course selected from above, you may register for:

MCB 5427 Laboratory Techniques in Functional Genomics (offered in Fall and Spring)

MCB 5672 Applied Bioinformatics (Fall)

From the 4 th semester onward:

Between years 2 and 4, all students must take MCB 5984 MCB Invited Seminar.

Additionally, students may choose from didactic courses not previously taken from the above lists and from the following:

Spring Semester

MCB 5446: 3D Genome in Development, Disease, and Evolution

MCB 5895 Special Topics: Non-Mendelian Inheritance and Meiotic Drive

MCB 3895-002 Special Topics: Fundamentals of light microscopy and digital imaging

EEB 4100 Big Data Science for Biologists (4 credits)

EEB 5300 Applied Genomics for Ecology and Evolution (3 credits)

Fall Semester

MCB 5430 Analysis of Eukaryotic Functional Genomic Data (3 credits)

MCB 5243 Molecular Analysis of Development (3 credits)

Optional courses for students with a research focus in molecular evolution/microbial genetics:

MCB 5471 Current Topics in Molecular Evolution (1 credit)

MCB 3637 Practical Methods in Microbial Genomics (3 credits)

EEB 6486 Systematics Seminar (1 credit)

The following Intensive didactic courses are recommended for students with a research focus on molecular evolution/population genetics (note that these are not offered every year):

EEB 5348 Population Genetics (3 credits)

EEB 5349 Phylogenetics (3 credits)

Updated 10/28/2021

University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus

2024-2025 academic catalog, human medical genetics & genomics (phd).

The Human Medical Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program (HMGGP) at CU Anschutz is an interdisciplinary, interdepartmental program designed to coordinate outstanding graduate training and research opportunities in all aspects of Human and Medical Genetics. The HMGGP faculty are committed to a dynamic and outstanding program that provides training and mentorship to the next generation of leaders in the fields of human and medical genetics and genomics.

The Human Genome Project and a diverse group of technological advances have brought about a revolution in almost all fields of medicine and biomedical research. The availability of genomic DNA sequences of humans and other species has enabled discovery of genes critical to development and disease and genetic variations that predispose to common debilitating diseases. Furthermore, tests to rapidly identify genetically susceptible individuals are being developed, and new technologies to treat or even prevent these diseases are being brought on line. Genetics and genomics provides the foundation for “Precision” or "Personalized" medicine which will bring about improved health, longevity, and quality of life.

It is the mission of the Human Medical Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program to be at the forefront of this revolution. The Human Medical Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program builds on close engagement with our students, who are integral to our ongoing mission to build towards the future. The Program is continually adding new Training Faculty, providing students with an outstanding group of scientists from whom to select as Thesis Advisors and mentors. Our goal is to provide students a world-class graduate training experience in an interactive and collaborative environment that allows for an individualized learning experience. 

Admission Requirements

Admission Philosophy

Students are selected on the basis of past academic performance, previous laboratory research experience, and, where possible, individual interviews. We select students who show high intellectual achievement, creativity, independence, and strong motivation to become successful scientists. Our Program recognizes that students who are attracted to a career in genetics and genomics can have highly varied backgrounds.  

Admissions Requirements

Coursework |  Although there are no formal undergraduate course requirements, students with a solid undergraduate foundation in mathematics and biological and chemical sciences have performed best in the Program. It is suggested that applicants have completed courses in biology, chemistry (general and organic), physics, genetics, calculus, and statistics before entering the Program. 

Graduate Record Exam (GRE) |  The GRE General Test and Subject Test are not required for application to HMGGP but will be considered if submitted. To send scores directly to HMGGP, please designate GRE code 4875.  

How to Apply

APPLICATION WILL OPEN ON SEPTEMBER 1 st .

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS DECEMBER 1 st .

PRIORITY DEADLINE FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS IS NOVEMBER 1 st .

To apply for admission applicants must submit the following:

• Online Graduate School application (included in the application is the Research Statement, Professional Background, and Future Goals Statement, and Colorado residency form).
• A $50.00 domestic and $75.00 international non-refundable application fee. No application will be processed unless this fee is paid.
• Three (3) letters of recommendation.
• GRE test scores (optional). Use GRE code 4875 (optional)
• TOEFL or IELTS scores and financial support verification (international students only).
• One (1) official transcript of all academic work completed to date. To be considered "official", the transcripts must come from the issuing institution directly to the University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus graduate program. Use the following address:

Electronic Transcripts should be sent to:  [email protected]

If sending a physical transcript, please mail to:

University of Colorado Denver Graduate School Mail Stop C296 Fitzsimons Building, W5107 13001 E. 17th Place Aurora, CO 80045

Degree Requirements

First year students, second year students, third year students, fourth year students & beyond, learning objectives.

The PhD program in Human Medical Genetics trains graduate students to become proficient and successful investigators who are able to:  

• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of central concepts in the biomedical sciences.
• Understand current concepts in human genetics and genomics.
• Read and critically evaluate the scientific literature.
• Formulate hypotheses based on current concepts in the field and design, conduct, and interpret their own research projects.
• Present research results in peer-reviewed publications and in a dissertation.
• Communicate research results effectively through oral presentations at scientific seminars, conferences, and other venues.
• Write a competitive application for research funding.
• Develop ancillary skills, where necessary, to obtain positions outside of scientific research.

Please refer to the Graduate School Policies page .

Tamim Shaikh, PhD Professor Program Director [email protected]   303.724.5399

Vanessa Martinez Program Administrator [email protected] [email protected]

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• MD-PhD Program >
• Education and Training >
• PhD Program Overview >
• Participating Programs >

Genetics, Genomics, & Bioinformatics

The MD-PhD required curriculum for the PhD consists of 72 credit hours from required and elective courses, drawn from these lists.

Prerequisites from the first two years of medical education curriculum

Genetics, genomics and bioinformatics requirements.

These two electives are typically completed during the first and second year in the program; thus, after the first two years, there are no further formal course requirements.

Your major requirement in the  first semester  in the program is the Dissertation Proposal (GGB 606). Your research proposal process will begin with a Thesis Research Prospectus presentation. This 30-40 minute seminar will give an overview of the research in your lab, the objectives of your thesis research within that context, and the specific aims of the work you plan to complete toward those objectives. The written proposal you prepare and submit to your committee will follow the format of a NIH pre/post-doctoral fellowship. This proposal will be an outline of your doctoral research and thesis. The research proposal is the program’s “preliminary examination” in the doctoral program.

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• Genetics, Ph.D.

Graduate training in genetics emphasizes study and research leading to a Ph.D. degree in genetics. 

The goal of the genetics graduate training program is to train the next generation of professional geneticists. This includes selecting the most promising university graduates for admission to the program and training those students in the methods and logic of genetic analysis. Such analyses are increasingly important in contemporary biological and biomedical research. The curriculum includes:

• coursework on the principles of genetics and on the methods of genetic and genomic analyses, and
• original research in a specialized area, which culminates in the writing and defense of a doctoral thesis. 

The genetics graduate program is supported by the oldest and one of the largest NIH-funded genetics training grants in the country. 

The strength of genetics research at Wisconsin derives in large part from the Laboratory of Genetics, but state-of-the-art genetics research is conducted in many campus departments and centers. Mentoring faculty of the genetics Ph.D. program includes over 80 mentors selected from 22 campus departments and schools based on the strength of their scholarly genetics research. A key feature of the mentors is that they conduct genetic research, using any number of tools, and can therefore provide students with a solid foundation of genetic knowledge and experiences. The genetics research pursued on campus provides an exceptional community.

Genetics Ph.D. students choose one of the mentoring faculty as the graduate thesis advisor and mentor. Genetics graduate students spend time during the first semester of graduate school rotating in the laboratories of three or four faculty mentors, selected by the student. Following rotations, a graduate thesis advisor is chosen by mutual consent of both student and mentor. Students are expected to acquire a broad and fundamental knowledge of genetics during their coursework, after which they conduct independent scholarly research based on individual interests and under the guidance and mentoring of the thesis advisor. Formal coursework requirements are modest, and independent study that includes original research is of paramount importance in the program. Students choose an individualized thesis advisory committee that approves formal coursework and provides scientific and career development advice throughout a student's graduate career.

Laboratory of Genetics

The Laboratory of Genetics is the oldest and one of the finest centers of genetics in the nation. It is highly regarded for its research contributions in the areas of  disease genetics ,  cell biology , neurogenetics ,  developmental genetics ,  gene expression ,  genomics ,  evolutionary and population genetics , and  computational biology . The laboratory consists of two departments: Genetics, in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences; and Medical Genetics, in the School of Medicine and Public Health. Although administratively distinct, these two departments function as one at both the faculty and student levels.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

Ph.D. students in genetics choose to attend Wisconsin because of their commitment to the discipline of genetics and because of Wisconsin's strength in that area. For admission to graduate study in genetics, the student should have earned a grade average of B or better and completed a B.S. or B.A. degree in a recognized college or university. There are no specific requirements in supporting fields, but students are encouraged to acquire adequate background in mathematics, physics, and biology. There is no formal language requirement for the Ph.D. in genetics.  Undergraduate research experience is also strongly recommended in order to be competitive.

Admission to the genetics Ph.D. program is highly competitive. A committee of the Laboratory of Genetics reviews applications each fall, invites meritorious applicants for personal interviews each January and February, and accepts approximately 15 percent of total applications received. An application for admission consists of:

• a personal statement that discusses the reasons for pursuing a genetics Ph.D.,
• an  transcript of undergraduate college or university coursework,
• three or more letters of recommendation,
• a report, if appropriate, of scores received on either the TOEFL or IELTS exams of English language proficiency, and
• any other information or documentation that would help the admissions committee evaluate an applicant's potential for success in graduate study.

The application deadline is December 1 . 

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Program Resources

The  Genetics Training Program is supported by an NIH Training Grant. Domestic students receive 1–2 years of funding, typically their first year and second or third  year. We encourage students to apply for fellowships. Other funding sources include professors research grants and university fellowships. The Genetics Training Program nominates competitive applicants for fellowships including the Advanced Opportunity Fellowships and Wisconsin Distinguished Graduate Fellowships . Funding includes a stipend, health care benefits, and tuition costs. Students must be making satisfactory progress towards their degree.

Prospective students should see the program website for funding information.

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

Major requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

MODE OF INSTRUCTION

Mode of instruction definitions.

Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.

Evening/Weekend: ​Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules.  Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.

Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.

Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats.  Contact the program for more specific information.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online.  Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS

Required courses.

GENETICS/​MD GENET  707 Genetics of Development and GENETICS/​MD GENET  708 Methods and Logic in Genetic Analysis are taken by the first and second years together; GENETICS/​MD GENET  707 is offered one year and GENETICS/​MD GENET  708 the next.

Permission must be obtained to register from the cancer biology department.

Students wishing to take a course outside of Genetics course offerings may petition the Graduate Program Committee.

Graduate School Policies

The  Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures  provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.

Major-Specific Policies

Prior coursework, graduate work from other institutions.

For well-prepared advanced students, the program may accept prior graduate coursework from other institutions toward the minimum graduate degree credit and minimum graduate coursework (50%) requirement. The minimum graduate residence credit requirement can be satisfied only with courses taken as a graduate student at UW–Madison. Coursework earned ten or more years prior to admission to a doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

UW–Madison Undergraduate

For well-prepared advanced students, the program may decide to accept up to 7 credits numbered 300 or above completed at UW–Madison toward fulfillment of minimum degree and minor credit requirements. This work would not be allowed to count toward the 50% graduate coursework minimum unless taken at the 700 level or above. Coursework earned ten or more years prior to admission to a doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

UW–Madison University Special

The program may decide to accept up to 15 University Special student credits as fulfillment of the minimum graduate residence, graduate degree, or minor credit requirements on occasion as an exception (on a case-by-case basis).

UW–Madison coursework taken as a University Special student would not be allowed to count toward the 50% graduate coursework minimum unless taken at the 700 level or above. Coursework earned ten or more years prior to admission to a doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements.

The Graduate School regularly reviews the record of any student who earned grades of BC, C, D, F, or Incomplete in a graduate course (300 or above), or grade of U in research credits. This review could result in academic probation with a hold on future enrollment or in being suspended from the Graduate School.

ADVISOR / COMMITTEE

When students have identified a major professor and joined their lab, that professor will assume the duties of their advisor. At that time students will form a Ph.D. Advisory Committee consisting of three to five faculty members (ultimately it must be five) three of whom must be Genetics trainers, including two members of the Laboratory of Genetics faculty, and one minor advisor, if needed. One member must also be from a different department (all 5 cannot be Genetics faculty members). The Ph.D. Advisory Committee should be established no later than the end of the second semester. Under normal circumstances, the committee membership will remain in effect for the entire tenure of the student’s graduate career.

The Ph.D. Advisory Committee will advise the student with regard to major and minor requirements. It will also act as their Prelim B Examination Committee and as the Final Oral Ph.D. Examination Committee. After the advisor, this committee is the primary monitoring instrument to assure satisfactory progress toward degree. The Ph.D. Advisory Committee will meet with the student at least once per year. During these annual meetings anticipated timelines for progress of the thesis project will be discussed and concrete guidance will be given about completing the thesis. The student will complete an annual committee meeting form each year during the meeting. The annual meeting will address the assessment of the student’s progress and outline any suggestions or recommendations, in addition to verifying the discussion of the student’s  Individualized Development Plan .

CREDITS PER TERM ALLOWED

Time constraints.

Doctoral degree students who have been absent for ten or more consecutive years lose all credits that they have earned before their absence. Individual programs may count the coursework students completed prior to their absence for meeting program requirements; that coursework may not count toward Graduate School credit requirements.

A candidate for a doctoral degree who fails to take the final oral examination and deposit the dissertation within five years after passing the preliminary examination may by require to take another preliminary examination and to be admitted to candidacy a second time.

grievances and appeals

These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:

• Bias or Hate Reporting  
• Graduate Assistantship Policies and Procedures
• Office of the Provost for Faculty and Staff Affairs
• Dean of Students Office (for all students to seek grievance assistance and support)
• Employee Assistance (for personal counseling and workplace consultation around communication and conflict involving graduate assistants and other employees, post-doctoral students, faculty and staff)
• Employee Disability Resource Office (for qualified employees or applicants with disabilities to have equal employment opportunities)
• Graduate School (for informal advice at any level of review and for official appeals of program/departmental or school/college grievance decisions)
• Office of Compliance (for class harassment and discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence)
• Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (for conflicts involving students)
• Ombuds Office for Faculty and Staff (for employed graduate students and post-docs, as well as faculty and staff)
• Title IX (for concerns about discrimination)

College of Agricultural and Life Sciences: Grievance Policy  

In the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), any student who feels unfairly treated by a member of the CALS faculty or staff has the right to complain about the treatment and to receive a prompt hearing. Some complaints may arise from misunderstandings or communication breakdowns and be easily resolved; others may require formal action. Complaints may concern any matter of perceived unfairness.

To ensure a prompt and fair hearing of any complaint, and to protect the rights of both the person complaining and the person at whom the complaint is directed, the following procedures are used in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Any student, undergraduate or graduate, may use these procedures, except employees whose complaints are covered under other campus policies.

• The student should first talk with the person at whom the complaint is directed. Most issues can be settled at this level. Others may be resolved by established departmental procedures.
• If the complaint involves an academic department in CALS the student should proceed in accordance with item 3 below.
• If the grievance involves a unit in CALS that is not an academic department, the student should proceed in accordance with item 4 below.
• If informal mediation fails, the student can submit the grievance in writing to the grievance advisor within 10 working days of the date the student is informed of the failure of the mediation attempt by the grievance advisor. The grievance advisor will provide a copy to the person at whom the grievance is directed.
• The grievance advisor will refer the complaint to a department committee that will obtain a written response from the person at whom the complaint is directed, providing a copy to the student. Either party may request a hearing before the committee. The grievance advisor will provide both parties a written decision within 20 working days from the date of receipt of the written complaint.
• If the grievance involves the department chairperson, the grievance advisor or a member of the grievance committee, these persons may not participate in the review.
• If not satisfied with departmental action, either party has 10 working days from the date of notification of the departmental committee action to file a written appeal to the CALS Equity and Diversity Committee. A subcommittee of this committee will make a preliminary judgement as to whether the case merits further investigation and review. If the subcommittee unanimously determines that the case does not merit further investigation and review, its decision is final. If one or more members of the subcommittee determine that the case does merit further investigation and review, the subcommittee will investigate and seek to resolve the dispute through mediation. If this mediation attempt fails, the subcommittee will bring the case to the full committee. The committee may seek additional information from the parties or hold a hearing. The committee will present a written recommendation to the dean who will provide a final decision within 20 working days of receipt of the committee recommendation.
• If the alleged unfair treatment occurs in a CALS unit that is not an academic department, the student should, within 120 calendar days of the alleged incident, take his/her grievance directly to the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. The dean will attempt to resolve the problem informally within 10 working days of receiving the complaint. If this mediation attempt does not succeed the student may file a written complaint with the dean who will refer it to the CALS Equity and Diversity Committee. The committee will seek a written response from the person at whom the complaint is directed, subsequently following other steps delineated in item 3d above.

Take advantage of the Graduate School's  professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

• Demonstrate a broad understanding in the principles of genetics and heredity in all organisms. They will develop particular expertise in at least one of the broad subject areas of the doctoral program.
• Demonstrate a broad understanding of major current and past theories, research findings and methodologies and techniques in genetics, with particular expertise in their area of concentration, both orally and in writing.
• Develop critical thinking skills. They will retrieve and examine scientific literature, evaluate evidence for and again hypotheses, identify knowledge gaps, strengths and weaknesses in existing literature, synthesize knowledge, develop conclusions, and formulate plans for moving the current state of knowledge forward.
• Develop and complete original research that advances a specific field of study within one of the broad areas subject areas in genetics.
• Retrieve, evaluate and interpret professional peer-reviewed literature and use this information to develop theoretical frameworks, testable hypotheses, and predictions for their own research projects.
• Design research projects that are feasible, based on well-designed and internally controlled experiments, and address important unsolved problems in genetic or biomedical research.
• Conduct independent research, critically evaluate and interpret the resulting data, and, based on that analysis, design future experiments that advance the state of the field.
• Write, edit, and assemble manuscripts resulting from their independent research and submit these for publication in peer-reviewed professional journals.
• Communicate effectively to diverse audiences in writing, through oral presentations, and during formal and informal discussions.
• Write clear and concise research articles for publication in professional journals.
• Present at scientific conferences and in both formal and informal seminars.
• Master methods of communicating and interacting effectively with professional colleagues, and will prepare successful applications for research grant support.
• Articulate their research and its significance both formally and informally to diverse audiences.
• Give and receive feedback on communication skills both orally and in writing.
• Be provided with opportunities to engage in public outreach and education.
• Effectively teach the principles of genetics and the methods used in contemporary genetic research.
• Receive in-class educational training by serving as teaching assistants for at least one semester of an undergraduate genetics course.
• Be provided with opportunities to mentor other students (for example, undergraduate students) in a laboratory research setting. Interested students will have opportunities to perform outreach activities in which they educate school-age students or individuals from other fields on the principles of modern genetics.
• Be provided with diverse training that will prepare them for a range of flexible and sustainable careers in, for example, academia, industry, government, science policy, administration, commerce, journalism, law, education and community outreach.
• Develop broadly applicable skills in critical thinking and problem solving.
• Be provided with opportunities for teamwork, written and oral communication skills and collaborations.
• Receive training in professional ethics and the responsible conduct of science.
• Be trained to use scientific rigor when designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting and reporting results.
• Discuss and formulate opinions on the many situations that working scientists encounter involving professional ethics and conflicts of interest.
• Receive training in laws, regulation, permits and licenses, occupational health, safety standards and best practices, will demonstrate understanding of such and adhere to compliance.

Pelegri, Francisco (Chair); Chang, Qiang; Drummond-Barbosa, Daniela; Gasch, Audrey; Hittinger, Chris; Ikeda, Aki;  Masson, Patrick; Payseur, Bret; Perna, Nicole; Pool, John; Prolla, Tom; Schwartz, David; Skop, Ahna; Wassarman, David;  Yin, Jerry

ASSISTANT PROFESSORS

Brunkard, Jake; Richardson, Claire; Schrodi, Steven; Sharp, Nathaniel; Werling, Donna

• Requirements
• Professional Development
• Learning Outcomes

Contact Information

Genetics College of Agricultural and Life Sciences genetics.wisc.edu

Nicole Perna, Director of Graduate Studies [email protected]

Martha Reck, Graduate Program Manager [email protected]

Graduate Program Handbook View Here

Graduate School grad.wisc.edu

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University Catalog 2023-2024

Genetics (phd), degree requirements, elective courses, full professors.

• Jose Miguel Alonso
• Peter J. Balint-Kurti
• Rodolphe Barrangou
• David M. Bird
• Adam Joseph Birkenheuer
• Matthew Breen
• Ignazio Carbone
• Ralph A. Dean
• Ralph E. Dewey
• Robert Graham Franks
• Troy Ghashghaei
• John R. Godwin
• Major M. Goodman
• Fred L. Gould
• Candace Hope Haigler
• Linda Kay Hanley-Bowdoin
• Christine Veronica Hawkes
• James B. Holland
• Fikret Isik
• Ramsey S. Lewis
• Hsiao-Ching Liu
• Steven Lommel
• James W. Mahaffey
• Christian Maltecca
• Carolyn Jane Mattingly
• Kathryn Montgome Meurs
• Spencer V. Muse
• Natasha J. Olby
• Charles H. Opperman
• Balaji M. Rao
• Emilie Francesca Rissman
• Jean B. Ristaino
• Coby J. Schal
• Maxwell J. Scott
• Heike Inge Ada Sederoff
• Seth M. Sullivant
• William F. Thompson
• Jeffrey L. Thorne
• Jung-Ying Tzeng
• Keith R. Weninger
• Ross W. Whetten
• Brian M. Wiegmann
• Qiuyun Xiang
• Jeffrey A. Yoder
• Zhaobang Zeng

Associate Professors

• John J Classen
• David Lawrence Aylor
• Chase Beisel
• Nicolas Emile Buchler
• Gavin Clay Conant
• Shobhan Gaddameedhi
• Steffen Heber
• Vasu Kuraparthy
• Randall Brian Langerhans
• Terri A. Long
• Marce D. Lorenzen
• John Edward Meitzen
• Susana Rita Milla-Lewis
• Nanette M. Nascone-Yoder
• Dahlia M. Nielsen
• Xinxia Peng
• Marcela Pierce
• Antonio Planchart
• David Michael Reif
• Michael Hay Reiskind
• Reade Bruce Roberts
• Michael L. Sikes
• Rosangela Sozzani
• Anna N. Stepanova

Assistant Professors

• Hamid Ashrafi
• Christa Baker
• Louis-Marie Bobay
• Benjamin John Callahan
• Carter Clinton
• Michael Anthony Cowley
• Nathan Crook
• Colleen Jennifer Doherty
• Abdulkerim Eroglu
• Rafael Felipe Guerro Farias
• Amanda Marie Hulse
• Albert Jun Qi Keung
• Manuel Kleiner
• Caroline Laplante
• Wusheng Liu
• Anna Michelle Locke
• Elizabeth Lucas
• Kurt Marsden
• Santosh Kumar Mishra
• Casey C. Nestor
• Benjamin J. Reading
• Ruben Rellan Alvarez
• Adriana San Miguel Delgadillo
• Caitlin Suzanne Smukowski Heil
• Eduardo Javier Lopez Soto
• Casey Michelle Theriot
• Laurianne Chantal Van Landeghem
• Sara Villani
• Justin Graham Alexander Whitehill
• Christina Zakas

Emeritus Professors

• Roderick M Rejesus
• William Reid Atchley
• Stephanie E. Curtis
• Eugene Eisen
• Charles S. Levings III
• Todd Robert Klaenhammer
• Wesley Edwin Kloos
• Dale F. Matzinger
• Wendell Herbert McKenzie
• John G. Scandalios
• Henry E. Schaffer
• Ron Ross Sederoff
• Charles William Stuber
• Earl A. Wernsman

Adjunct professors

• Robert R .Anholt
• Trudy F. MacKay
• Alison Anne Motsinger-Reif
• Nadia Singh

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2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog

A PDF of the entire 2023-2024 Undergraduate catalog.

2023-2024 Graduate Catalog

A PDF of the entire 2023-2024 Graduate catalog.

Graduate School

Ph.d. requirements.

• Academics & Research
• Programs & Requirements

Brown University awards more than 200 doctor of philosophy degrees annually.

The Brown Ph.D. is primarily a research degree. Teaching is an important part of many doctoral programs, and many departments require candidates for the Ph.D. to have teaching experience.

Brown University offers substantial financial support to doctoral students. All incoming doctoral students are guaranteed five years of support, which includes a stipend, full tuition remission, health-services fee, and a health-insurance subsidy. Doctoral students in the Humanities and Social Sciences are guaranteed six years of support. All promises of student support are subject to students making satisfactory academic progress, as determined by their programs of study. Please see related links for additional details regarding the University's commitment to doctoral education.

Ph.D. Funding

Funding guarantee, four general requirements for the doctor of philosophy.

The candidate must be formally admitted to his or her degree program.

The normal residency requirement is the equivalent of three Academic Years of full-time study beyond the bachelor's degree. Students who enter a PhD program at Brown already holding a master’s degree in a related field have a residency requirement equivalent to two Academic Years of full-time study upon entering the PhD program at Brown. Use of a previously earned master’s degree to reduce PhD residency requirements is contingent upon approval of the program Director of Graduate Study. Graduate work done at other institutions and not used in fulfillment of the requirements for any doctoral degree elsewhere may, on the approval of the program Director of Graduate Study, be counted in fulfillment of up to, but not exceeding, one year of the residency requirement. A student who desires credit for work done elsewhere should file a timely application with the program Director of Graduate Study; transfer credit forms are available through the  Office of the Registrar .

A student is advanced to candidacy for the Ph.D. when he or she has completed satisfactorily all the requirements, departmental and general, requisite to beginning work on the dissertation. Candidacy is determined by the department or program of study and certified by the Registrar. Most departments require a preliminary examination before advancing any student to candidacy. Most departments also require a final examination or defense. The examination is conducted by professors in the department and by such other members of the faculty as may be appointed.

The candidate must present a dissertation on a topic related to his or her area of specialization that presents the results of original research and gives evidence of excellent scholarship. The dissertation must be approved by the professor or committee under whose direction it is written and by the Graduate Council. All requirements for the Ph.D. must be completed within five years after advancement to candidacy.

Faculty Member Leaves Brown

If a faculty member working with a doctoral student leaves Brown for any reason before that student has completed his or her degree requirements, it may not always be possible for that faculty member to continue working with the student as an advisor. In such cases, departments will work with students to help them locate a new advisor.

Additional Requirements

Individual departments and programs may have additional requirements regarding the number of courses to be taken, proficiency in foreign languages, special examinations, and theses. The department should be consulted for specific information.

Texas A&M University Catalogs

Doctor of philosophy in genetics and genomics.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program in Genetics and Genomics is the main interdisciplinary PhD program in the Natural Sciences at Texas A&M University and offers research opportunities in a diverse range of Specialties: Bioinformatics and Genomics; Conservation and Population Genetics; Medical Genetics; Microbial Genetics; Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Genetics; and Plant Genetics.

Our goal is to provide research opportunities to aspiring scientist to become creative and resourceful, supporting their development of transferable skills and advancement to careers in academia, national laboratories, industry, science policy, entrepreneurship, and many more. Since the first graduate degree in Genetics was awarded in 1914 at Texas A&M University, more than 300 PhD and 200 MS degrees have been awarded in Genetics. The Interdisciplinary Faculty of Genetics and Genomics, composed of 98 members representing 20 departments and 6 colleges, administers and teaches in the graduate program. 

Admissions 

Admission is based on undergraduate record (coursework, laboratory experience, and grades), letters of recommendation, resume and statement of purpose. Applicants whose native language is not English should plan to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Applicants to the Genetics Program undergo a holistic evaluation by our Admissions committee. In addition to overall academic achievement (GPA), the committee considers factors including, but not limited to, the rigor and relevance of completed coursework (courses in Genetics, Genomics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or similar areas are highly recommended), experience in laboratory research, scholarly outputs (presentations, publications), awards, leadership experience, faculty references, and scientific maturity. Applicants with unique experiences or circumstances are encouraged to describe those in their applications, as we are particularly interested in recruiting a diverse array of outstanding students. 

Curriculum and Graduation Timeline

In the fall of the first year, the students perform laboratory rotations and start their graduate courses. The laboratory rotations provide an opportunity to evaluate suitable laboratory environments for their graduate research. It is anticipated that most students have decided on a research laboratory by the start of the second semester. During the second and third semesters, students provide teaching assistance to Undergraduates in Genetics to gain teaching skills. However, the main focus is on getting a research project started, with the assistance of the thesis advisor and three additional faculty, who form the thesis committee. This period is also the time when students will prepare for their preliminary examination, to be taken by fall of the third year. The third, fourth and fifth year are dedicated to continuing and completing the thesis project, presenting data at conferences and publishing the work, followed by the thesis defense. The PhD degree is awarded principally on demonstrated ability to conduct significant and original scientific research.

Our students are expected to present their research at national and international conferences and publish in established, high-impact peer-reviewed journals, and their teaching experience provides an additional valuable asset for future job opportunities. Our PhD graduates have been successful in obtaining faculty positions in top research universities, teaching colleges, as well as companies in the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and agriculture.

Career Preparation

We prepare our students to succeed in the current interdisciplinary workforce by providing adequate education on modern and diverse scientific career opportunities in genetics. In addition to the strong scientific curriculum, our PhD students may choose to diversify through graduate certificate programs with an emphasis in teaching, business, science law and public policy. Our students can also experience the industry or science policy paths through external internships. Advice on diverse careers options is provided via a monthly Career Club. Recent visitors have represented areas including gene testing companies, national labs, medical science liaisons, pharmas, biotechs, angel investors, science communications, and life science consultancies. Career Club also provides training in areas such as job searching, networking, and other soft skills. To provide a community of scholars, the Genetics Graduate Student Association (GGSA) provides a social community with regular meetings, social events, and advocates for genetics training.

For more information, visit the  Genetics & Genomics Program website .

Steps to Fulfill a Doctoral Program

Program Requirements

• Student's Advisory Committee

Degree Plan

Transfer of credit, research proposal, preliminary examination, preliminary examination format, preliminary examination scheduling, preliminary examination grading, failure of the preliminary examination, retake of failed preliminary examination, final examination, final examination grading, dissertation, student’s advisory committee.

After receiving admission to graduate studies and enrolling, the student will consult with the head of their major or administrative department (or chair of the intercollegiate faculty) concerning appointment of the chair of the advisory committee. The student’s advisory committee will consist of no fewer than four members of the graduate faculty representative of the student’s several fields of study and research, where the chair or co-chair must be from the student’s department (or intercollegiate faculty, if applicable), and at least one or more of the members must have an appointment to a department other than the student’s major department . The outside member for a student in an interdisciplinary degree program must be from a department different from the chair of the student’s committee.

The chair, in consultation with the student, will select the remainder of the advisory committee. Only graduate faculty members located on Texas A&M University campuses may serve as chair of a student’s advisory committee. Other Texas A&M University graduate faculty members located off-campus may serve as a member or co-chair (but not chair), with a member as the chair.

If the chair of a student’s advisory committee voluntarily leaves the University and the student is near completion of the degree and wants the chair to continue to serve in this role, the student is responsible for securing a current member of the University Graduate Faculty, from the student’s academic program and located near the Texas A&M University campus site, to serve as the co-chair of the committee. The Department Head or Chair of Intercollegiate faculty may request in writing to the Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate and Professional School that a faculty member who is on an approved leave of absence or has voluntarily separated from the university, be allowed to continue to serve in the role of chair of a student’s advisory committee without a co-chair for up to one year. The students should be near completion of the degree. Extensions beyond the one year period can be granted with additional approval of the Dean.

The committee members’ signatures on the degree plan indicate their willingness to accept the responsibility for guiding and directing the entire academic program of the student and for initiating all academic actions concerning the student. Although individual committee members may be replaced by petition for valid reasons, a committee cannot resign en masse . The chair of the committee, who usually has immediate supervision of the student’s research and dissertation or record of study, has the responsibility for calling all meetings of the committee. The duties of the committee include responsibility for the proposed degree plan, the research proposal, the preliminary examination, the dissertation or record of study and the final examination. In addition, the committee, as a group and as individual members, is responsible for counseling the student on academic matters, and, in the case of academic deficiency, initiating recommendations to the Graduate and Professional School.

The student’s advisory committee will evaluate the student’s previous education and degree objectives. The committee, in consultation with the student, will develop a proposed degree plan and outline a research problem which, when completed, as indicated by the dissertation (or its equivalent for the degree of Doctor of Education or the degree of Doctor of Engineering), will constitute the basic requirements for the degree. The degree plan must be filed with the Graduate and Professional School prior to the deadline imposed by the student’s college and no later than 90 days prior to the preliminary examination.

This proposed degree plan should be submitted through the online Document Processing Submission System located on the website  http://ogsdpss.tamu.edu . A minimum of 64 hours is required on the degree plan for the Doctor of Philosophy for a student who has completed a master’s degree. A student who has completed a DDS/DMD, DVM or a MD at a U.S. institution is also required to complete a minimum of 64 hours. A student who has completed a baccalaureate degree but not a master’s degree will be required to complete a 96-hour degree plan. Completion of a DDS/DMD, DVM or MD degree at a foreign institution requires completion of a minimum of 96 hours for the Doctor of Philosophy. A field of study may be primarily in one department or in a combination of departments. A degree plan must carry a reasonable amount of 691 (research). A maximum of 9 hours of 400-level undergraduate courses may be used toward meeting credit-hour requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy.

Additional coursework may be added by petition to the approved degree plan by the student’s advisory committee if it is deemed necessary to correct deficiencies in the student’s academic preparation. No changes can be made to the degree plan once the student’s Request for Final Examination is approved by the Graduate and Professional School.

Approval to enroll in any professional course (900-level) should be obtained from the head of the department (or Chair of the intercollegiate faculty, if applicable) in which the course will be offered before including such a course on a degree plan.

No credit may be obtained by correspondence study, by extension or for any course of fewer than three weeks duration.

For non-distance degree programs, no more than 50 percent of the non-research credit hours required for the program may be completed through distance education courses.

To receive a graduate degree from Texas A&M University, students must earn one-third or more of the credits through the institution’s own direct instruction. This limitation also applies to joint degree programs. 

Courses for which transfer credits are sought must have been completed with a grade of B or greater and must be approved by the student’s advisory committee and the Graduate and Professional School. These courses must not have been used previously for another degree. Except for officially approved cooperative doctoral programs, credit for thesis or dissertation research or the equivalent is not transferable. Credit for “internship” coursework in any form is not transferable. Courses taken in residence at an accredited U.S. institution or approved international institution with a final grade of B or greater will be considered for transfer credit if, at the time the courses were completed, the courses would be accepted for credit toward a similar degree for a student in degree-seeking status at the host institution. Credit for coursework taken by extension is not transferable. Coursework in which no formal grades are given or in which grades other than letter grades (A or B) are earned (for example, CR, P, S, U, H, etc.) is not accepted for transfer credit . Credit for coursework submitted for transfer from any college or university must be shown in semester credit hours, or equated to semester credit hours.

Courses used toward a degree at another institution may not be applied for graduate credit. If the course to be transferred was taken prior to the conferral of a degree at the transfer institution, a letter from the registrar at that institution stating that the course was not applied for credit toward the degree must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School.

Grades for courses completed at other institutions are not included in computing the GPA. An official transcript from the university at which transfer courses are taken must be sent directly to the Office of Admissions.

The general field of research to be used for the dissertation should be agreed on by the student and the advisory committee at their first meeting, as a basis for selecting the proper courses to support the proposed research.

As soon thereafter as the research project can be outlined in reasonable detail, the dissertation research proposal should be completed. The research proposal should be approved at a meeting of the student’s advisory committee, at which time the feasibility of the proposed research and the adequacy of available facilities should be reviewed. The approved proposal, signed by all members of the student’s advisory committee, the head of the student’s major department (or chair of the intercollegiate faculty, if applicable), must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School at least 20 working days prior to the submission of the Request for the Final Examination.

Compliance issues must be addressed if a graduate student is performing research involving human subjects, animals, infectious biohazards and recombinant DNA. A student involved in these types of research should check with the Office of Research Compliance and Biosafety at (979) 458-1467 to address questions about all research compliance responsibilities. Additional information can also be obtained on the website http:// rcb.tamu.edu .

Examinations

The student’s major department (or chair of the interdisciplinary degree program faculty, if applicable) and their advisory committee may require qualifying, cumulative or other types of examinations at any time deemed desirable. These examinations are entirely at the discretion of the department and the student’s advisory committee.

The preliminary examination is required. The preliminary examination for a doctoral student shall be given no earlier than a date at which the student is within 6 credit hours of completion of the formal coursework on the degree plan (i.e., all coursework on the degree plan except 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 693, 695, 697, 791, or other graduate courses specifically designated as S/U in the course catalog). The student should complete the Preliminary Examination no later than the end of the semester following the completion of the formal coursework on the degree plan.

The objective of preliminary examination is to evaluate whether the student has demonstrated the following qualifications:

a.     a mastery of the subject matter of all fields in the program;

b.     an adequate knowledge of the literature in these fields and an ability to carry out bibliographical research;

c.     an understanding of the research problem and the appropriate methodological approaches.

The format of the preliminary examination shall be determined by the student’s department (or interdisciplinary degree program, if applicable) and advisory committee, and communicated to the student in advance of the examination. The exam may consist of a written component, oral component, or combination of written and oral components.

The preliminary exam may be administered by the advisory committee or a departmental committee; herein referred to as the examination committee.

Regardless of exam format, a student will receive an overall preliminary exam result of pass or fail. The department (or interdisciplinary degree program, if applicable) will determine how the overall pass or fail result is determined based on the exam structure and internal department procedures. If the exam is administered by the advisory committee, each advisory committee member will provide a pass or fail evaluation decision.

Only one advisory committee substitution is allowed to provide an evaluation decision for a student’s preliminary exam, and it cannot be the committee chair.

If a student is required to take, as a part of the preliminary examination, a written component administered by a department or interdisciplinary degree program, the department or interdisciplinary degree program faculty must:

a.     offer the examination at least once every six months. The departmental or interdisciplinary degree program examination should be announced at least 30 days prior to the scheduled examination date.

b.     assume the responsibility for marking the examination satisfactory or unsatisfactory, or otherwise graded, and in the case of unsatisfactory, stating specifically the reasons for such a mark.

c.     forward the marked examination to the chair of the student’s advisory committee within one week after the examination.

Students are eligible for to schedule the preliminary examination in the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) if they meet the following list of eligibility requirements:

Student is registered at Texas A&M University for a minimum of one semester credit hour in the long semester or summer term during which any component of the preliminary examination is held. If the entire examination is held between semesters, then the student must be registered for the term immediately preceding the examination.

An approved degree plan is on file with the Graduate and Professional School prior to commencing the first component of the examination.

Student’s cumulative GPA is at least 3.000.

Student’s degree plan GPA is at least 3.000.

At the end of the semester in which at least the first component of the exam is given, there are no more than 6 hours of coursework remaining on the degree plan (except 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 693, 695, 697, 791, or other graduate courses specifically designated as S/U in the course catalog). The head of the student’s department (or Chair of the Interdisciplinary Degree Program, if applicable) has the authority to approve a waiver of this criterion.

Credit for the preliminary examination is not transferable in cases where a student changes degree programs after passing a preliminary exam.

If a written component precedes an oral component of the preliminary exam, the chair of the student’s examination committee is responsible for making all written examinations available to all members of the committee.  A positive evaluation of the preliminary exam by all members of a student’s examination committee with at most one dissension is required to pass a student on their preliminary exam.

The student’s department will promptly report the results of the Preliminary Examination to the Graduate and Professional School via the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) within 10 working days of completion of the preliminary examination.

If an approved examination committee member substitution (one only) has been made, their approval must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS. The approval of the designated department approver is also required on the request.

After passing the required preliminary oral and written examinations for a doctoral degree, the student must complete the final examination within four years of the semester in which the preliminary exam is taken. Exams taken in between terms will expire at the end of the term that ended prior to the exam. For example, a preliminary exam taken and passed during the Fall 2023 semester will expire at the end of the Fall 2027 semester. A preliminary exam taken in the time between the Summer and Fall 2023 semesters will expire at the end of the Summer 2027 semester.

First Failure

Upon approval of a student’s examination committee (with no more than one member dissenting), and approval of the Department and Graduate and Professional School, a student who has failed a preliminary examination may be given one re-examination. In accordance with Student Rule 12.5, the student’s department head or designee, intercollegiate faculty, or graduate advisory committee should make a recommendation to the student regarding their scholastic deficiency.

Second Failure

Upon failing the preliminary exam twice in a doctoral program, a student is no longer eligible to continue to pursue the PhD in that program/major. In accordance with Student Rule 12.5.3 and/or 12.5.4, the student will be notified of the action being taken by the department as a result of the second failure of the preliminary examination.

Adequate time must be given to permit a student to address inadequacies emerging from the first preliminary examination. The examination committee must agree upon and communicate to the student, in writing, an adequate time-frame from the first examination (normally six months) to retest, as well as a detailed explanation of the inadequacies emerging from the examination. The student and committee should jointly negotiate a mutually acceptable date for this retest.  When providing feedback on inadequacies, the committee should clearly document expected improvements that the student must be able to exhibit in order to retake the exam.  The examination committee will document and communicate the time-frame and feedback within 10 working days of the exam that was not passed.

Candidates for the doctoral degrees must pass a final examination by deadline dates announced in the  Graduate and Professional School Calendar  each semester. A doctoral student is allowed only one opportunity to take the final examination.

No unabsolved grades of D, F, or U for any course can be listed on the degree plan. The student must be registered for any remaining hours of 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 791 or other graduate courses specifically designated as S/U in the course catalog during the semester of the final exam. No student may be given a final examination until they have been admitted to candidacy and their current official cumulative and degree plan GPAs are 3.00 or better.

Refer to the  Admission to Candidacy  section of the graduate catalog for candidacy requirements.

A request to schedule the final examination must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS a minimum of 10 working days in advance of the scheduled date. Any changes to the degree plan must be approved by the Graduate and Professional School prior to the submission of the request for final examination.

The student’s advisory committee will conduct this examination. Only one committee member substitution is allowed with the approval of the Graduate and Professional School. If the substitution is for the sole external member of the advisory committee - with an appointment to a department other than the student's major department - then the substitute must also be external to the student's major department. In extenuating circumstances, with the approval of the Graduate and Professional School, an exception to this requirement may be granted.

The final examination is not to be administered until the dissertation or record of study is available in substantially final form to the student’s advisory committee, and all concerned have had adequate time to review the document.  Whereas the final examination may cover the broad field of the candidate’s training, it is presumed that the major portion of the time will be devoted to the dissertation and closely allied topics. Persons other than members of the graduate faculty may, with mutual consent of the candidate and the chair of the advisory committee, be invited to attend a final examination for an advanced degree. A positive vote by all members of the graduate committee with at most one dissension is required to pass a student on their exam. A department can have a stricter requirement provided there is consistency within all degree programs within a department. Upon completion of the questioning of the candidate, all visitors must excuse themselves from the proceedings.

The student’s department will promptly report the results of the Final Examination to the Graduate and Professional School via the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS) within 10 working days of completion of the final examination. The Graduate and Professional School will be automatically notified via ARCS of any cancellations.

A positive evaluation of the final exam by all members of a student’s advisory committee with at most one dissension is required to pass a student on their final exam. If an approved committee member substitution (1 only) has been made, their approval must be submitted to the Graduate and Professional School via ARCS.

The dissertation,  which must be a candidate's original work demonstrates the ability to perform independent research . Whereas acceptance of the dissertation is based primarily on its scholarly merit, it must also exhibit creditable literary workmanship. Dissertation formatting must be acceptable to the Graduate and Professional School as outlined in the Guidelines for Theses, Dissertations, and Records of Study.

After successful defense and approval by the student’s advisory committee and the head of the student’s major department (or chair of intercollegiate faculty, if applicable), a student must submit the dissertation in electronic format as a single PDF file to https://etd.tamu.edu/ . Additionally, a dissertation approval form with original signatures must be received by the Graduate and Professional School through the Academic Requirements Completion System (ARCS). Both the PDF file and the completed ARCS approval form must be received by the deadline.

Deadline dates for submitting are announced each semester or summer term in the Graduate and Professional School Calendar (see Time Limit statement). These dates also can be accessed via the  Graduate and Professional School website .

Each student who submits a document for review is assessed a one-time thesis/dissertation processing fee through Student Business Services. This processing fee is for the thesis/dissertation services provided. After commencement, dissertations are digitally stored and made available through the Texas A&M Libraries.

A dissertation that is deemed unacceptable by the Graduate and Professional School because of excessive corrections will be returned to the student’s department head or chair of the intercollegiate faculty . The manuscript must be resubmitted as a new document, and the entire review process must begin anew. All original submittal deadlines must be met during the resubmittal process to graduate.

Additional Requirements

Continuous registration, admission to candidacy.

• 99-Hour Cap on Doctoral Degree

Application for Degree

A student who enters the doctoral degree program with a baccalaureate degree must spend one academic year plus one semester in resident study at Texas A&M University. A student who holds master’s degree when they enter a doctoral degree program must spend one academic year in resident study. One academic year may include two adjacent regular semesters or one regular semester and one adjacent 10-week summer semester. The third semester is not required to be adjacent to the one year. Enrollment for each semester must be a minimum of 9 credit hours each to satisfy the residence requirement. A minimum of 1 credit hour must be in a non-distance education delivery mode. Semesters in which the student is enrolled in all distance education coursework will not count toward fulfillment of the residence requirement.

To satisfy the residence requirement, the student must complete a minimum of 9 credit hours per semester or 10-week summer semester in resident study at Texas A&M University for the required period. A student who enters a doctoral degree program with a baccalaureate degree may fulfill residence requirements in excess of one academic year (18 credit hours) by registration during summer sessions or by completion of a less-than-full course load (in this context a full course load is considered 9 credit hours per semester).

Students who are employed full-time while completing their degree may fulfill total residence requirements by completion of less-than-full time course loads each semester. In order to be considered for this, the student is required to submit a Petition for Waivers and Exceptions along with verification of employment to the Graduate and Professional School. An employee should submit verification of employment at the time they submit the degree plan. See Registration.

See Residence Requirements .

All requirements for doctoral degrees must be completed within a period of ten consecutive calendar years for the degree to be granted.  A course will be considered valid until 10 years after the end of the semester in which it is taken. Graduate credit for coursework more than ten calendar years old at the time of the final oral examination may not be used to satisfy degree requirements.

After passing the required preliminary oral and written examinations for a doctoral degree, the student must complete the final examination within four years of the semester in which the preliminary exam is taken. Exams taken in between terms will expire at the end of the term that ended prior to the exam. For example, a preliminary exam taken and passed during the fall 2019 semester will expire at the end of the fall 2023 semester. A preliminary exam taken in the time between the summer and fall 2019 semesters will expire at the end of the summer 2023 semester.

A final corrected version of the dissertation or record of study in electronic format as a single PDF file must be cleared by the Graduate and Professional School within one year of the semester in which the final exam is taken. Exams taken in between terms will expire at the end of the term that ended prior to the exam. For example, a final exam taken and passed during the fall 2022 semester will expire at the end of the fall 2023 semester. A final exam taken in the time between the summer and fall 2022 semesters will expire at the end of the summer 2023 semester. Failure to do so will result in the degree not being awarded.

A student in a program leading to a Doctor of Philosophy who has completed all coursework on their degree plan other than 691 (research) are required to be in continuous registration until all requirements for the degree have been completed. See Continuous Registration Requirements .

To be admitted to candidacy for a doctoral degree, a student must have:

• completed all formal coursework on the degree plan with the exception of any remaining 681, 684, 690 and 691 or 791.
• a 3.0 Graduate GPA and a Degree Plan GPA of at least 3.0 with no grade lower than C in any course on the degree plan,
• passed the preliminary examination (written and oral portions),
• submitted an approved dissertation proposal,
• met the residence requirements. The final examination will not be authorized for any doctoral student who has not been admitted to candidacy.

A student is required to possess a competent command of English. For English language proficiency requirements, see the Admissions section of this catalog. The doctoral (PhD) foreign language requirement at Texas A&M University is a departmental option, to be administered and monitored by the individual departments of academic instruction.

99-Hour Cap on Doctoral Degrees

In Texas, public colleges and universities are funded by the state according to the number of students enrolled. In accordance with legislation passed by the Texas Legislature, the number of hours for which state universities may receive subvention funding at the doctoral rate for any individual is limited to 99 hours. Texas A&M and other universities will not receive subvention for hours in excess of the limit.

Institutions of higher education are allowed to charge the equivalent of non-resident tuition to a resident doctoral student who has enrolled in 100 or more semester credit hours of doctoral coursework.

Doctoral students at Texas A&M have seven years to complete their degree before being charged out-of-state tuition. A doctoral student who, after seven years of study, has accumulated 100 or more doctoral hours will be charged tuition at a rate equivalent to out-of-state tuition. Please note that the tuition increases will apply to Texas residents as well as students from other states and countries who are currently charged tuition at the resident rate. This includes those doctoral students who hold GAT, GANT, and GAR appointments or recipients of competitive fellowships who receive more than $1,000 per semester. Doctoral students who have not accumulated 100 hours after seven years of study are eligible to pay in-state tuition if otherwise eligible.

Doctoral students who exceed the credit limit will receive notification from the Graduate and Professional School during the semester in which they are enrolled and exceeding the limit in their current degree program. The notification will explain that the State of Texas does not provide funding for any additional hours in which a student is enrolled in excess of 99 hours. Texas A&M University will recover the lost funds by requiring students in excess of 99 hours to pay tuition at the non-funded, non-resident rate. This non-funded, non-resident tuition rate status will be updated for the following semester and in all subsequent semesters until receipt of a doctoral degree. Please see the  Tuition Calculator  at the non-resident rate for an example of potential charges.

The following majors are exempt from the 99-Hour Cap on Doctoral Degrees and have a limit of 130 doctoral hours:

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics
• Biomedical Sciences
• Clinical Psychology
• Counseling Psychology
• Genetics and Genomics
• Health Services Research
• Medical Sciences
• Microbiology
• Neurosciences (College of Medicine)
• Oral and Craniofacial Biomedical Sciences
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Public Health Sciences
• School Psychology

For information on applying for your degree, please visit the Graduation section.

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Degree Requirements

Prerequisites include the following courses or their equivalents: BIO_SC 2200 General Genetics , BIOCHM 4270 Biochemistry , STAT 1400 Elementary Statistics for Life Sciences .

In general, the minimum requirements for the PhD degree, beyond the requirements of the Graduate School, are outlined below.  Others are determined in consultation between the student and faculty advisor.

• advanced courses in genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology
• regular participation in the genetics area seminar program
• successful completion of a comprehensive examination
• at least one semester of teaching in a genetics course
• 3 seminar presentations
• research, dissertation and oral defense

Financial Aid from the Program

Some programs require an extra form or statement from those who wish to be considered for internal assistantships, fellowships or other funding packages. Check the program website or ask the program contact for details.

Application Deadline

Fall deadline: January 15

Admission Criteria

• Minimum TOEFL scores:
• Minimum GRE scores:
• Minimum GPA: 3.0 in last 60 hours
• Bachelor’s degree
• One or more courses in each of the following: organic chemistry, biochemistry, mathematics (calculus and statistics), physics, introductory genetics
• Research experience highly desirable
• Broad background in biology

Note: Deficiencies in the subjects listed can be remedied after admission.

Required Application Materials

To the Graduate School :

• All required Graduate School documents

To the Genetics Area Program : Genetics Area Program application (download form from website)

• TOEFL scores (international applicants)
• 3 letters of recommendation (use provided form)
• Personal statement

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• Genetics (GEN)

Genetics (Ph.D.)

https://colsa.unh.edu/molecular-cellular-biomedical-sciences/program/phd/genetics

The Ph.D. in Genetics is an interdisciplinary program made up of faculty from multiple departments and from the Hubbard Center for Genome Studies. The Genetics doctoral program integrates disciplines ranging from molecular and cellular biology to environmental and evolutionary genetics and genomics in microbial, plant, and animal systems. Graduates of the program are equipped for leadership positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, academic and government research laboratories, and successful careers in teaching and research at the college and university level.

Distinctive Features of the Program

• Outstanding research training in many cutting-edge research areas in molecular and evolutionary genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics
• Emphasis on interdisciplinary research training
• Well-equipped research laboratories and core facilities on the UNH campus
• Laboratory rotations upon entry to the program to become familiar with different research laboratories
• Weekly graduate student seminar presentations, as well as a departmental seminar series of invited speakers
• Opportunities to gain teaching experience as a Graduate Teaching Assistant

Research Opportunities

• Genomics and bioinformatics
• Evolutionary genomics
• Epigenetics
• Microbial ecology and genomics
• Plant genomics
• Signal transduction pathways
• Biodiversity and molecular ecology
• Molecular parasitology
• Cancer genetics

Financial Support

• Students admitted to the Ph.D. Program are typically supported by Research Assistantships or Teaching Assistantships
• Intramural summer and academic year fellowships are available on a competitive basis.

Career Prospects

• Research Directors in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
• Principle investigators in academic research labs and research institutes, or state and federal government agencies
• Academic preparation for future teaching and research roles in a college or university environment

Admission Requirements

• Otherwise well-qualified applicants can correct academic deficiencies with enrollment in appropriate courses or independent study during the first year of graduate studies
• Applicants from non-English speaking countries must provide Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement, including research interests and names of two or three potential Genetics faculty thesis advisors.

Degree Requirements

The coordinator of the genetics graduate program, with the concurrence of the student's thesis adviser, nominates the student's guidance and doctoral committees, which administer the qualifying and final examinations, respectively. Doctoral students are expected to have a broad exposure to genetics courses, exceeding that required of master's degree students. Specific course requirements are developed by the student and the guidance committee. Each semester students must attend MCBS 997 Seminar and present one seminar per year. Upon completion of coursework, the student must pass written and oral qualifying examinations conducted by the guidance committee in order to advance to candidacy. Doctoral students must complete a dissertation on original research in genetics, give a public seminar, and orally defend their dissertation before the doctoral committee.

All MCBS graduates will be able to:

• Critically apply theories, methodologies, and knowledge to address fundamental questions in their primary area of study.
• Pursue research of significance in the discipline (or an interdisciplinary or creative project). Students plan and conduct this research (or implement their project) under the guidance of an advisor, while developing intellectual independence that typifies true scholarship.
• Demonstrate skills in oral and written communication sufficient to present and publish work in their field, and to prepare grant proposals.
• Follow the principles of ethics in their field, and in academia.
• Demonstrate, through service, the value of their discipline to the academy and community at large.
• Demonstrate a mastery of skills and knowledge at a level required for college and university undergraduate teaching in their discipline and assessment of student learning.
• Interact productively with individuals from diverse backgrounds in the roles of team members, leaders and mentors with integrity and professionalism.

Graduates of the Genetics Ph. D program will be able to:

• Describe general concepts of genetics.
• Demonstrate the ability to design, execute, and analyze research in their area of specialization within genetics.
• Critically evaluate and form conclusions based on genetic or genomic data.

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• Graduate Programs

PhD Program

The Department of Genetics Genome Sciences embraces a unified program devoted to outstanding research and teaching in all areas of genetics, with particular emphases on genetics and genomics, human and model system genetics, animal models of human disease, stem cell models of human disease, epigenetics and the regulation of gene expression, therapeutic targets of human genetic disease, as well as developmental genetics. Faculty conduct internationally recognized research programs in each of these areas. They also are committed to training the next generation of leading genetics researchers. The Department has several affiliated programs that provide additional research and training opportunities, including the Center for Human Genetics at University Hospitals and the Genomics Medicine Institute at the Cleveland Clinic .

The GGS graduate program has maintained an active student body for many years and consistently has 25-30 students enrolled.  The student body provides the momentum and driving force for research in the department.  During the last six years, GGS students published 1st author papers in Cell Stem Cell, Genome Research, Nature, Nature Biotechnology, Nature Genetics, Science, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.  Since 2012, eight GGS students have been awarded pre-doctoral fellowships from American Heart Association and the National Institutes of Health.  A 2015 graduate, Olivia Corradin, was recently selected to be a Whitehead Fellow, a highly selective and prestigious program at the Whitehead Institute and MIT that provides support for her own independent research program right out of her graduate studies without further postdoctoral training.

The department has a strong, long-standing commitment to providing excellence in graduate education. The department offers a well-developed training program that integrates courses, workshops, journal clubs and student seminars to help students to develop research capabilities as well as other crucial skills such as oral and written presentations.  Students are expected to present a research seminar annually to the department followed by a brief session that critiques the presentation by faculty members.  The graduate program directors, the department chair and the thesis committee chair formally review students’ academic progress annually.  The time to degree in 2013-2019 is 5.42 years.  The program supports students’ career development by advising students on teaching opportunities, obtaining clinical laboratory experience, etc.  

How to Apply

Applications to the PhD program in Genetics and Genome Sciences are through the Biomedical Scientist Training Program (BSTP) , which provides access to most of the biomedical science PhD programs at CWRU during the first semester.

The BSTP is a highly competitive program. You are encouraged to apply in the fall or early winter (by October 15) and begin your studies the following summer. Your application will be considered by the Admissions Committee as soon as it is complete, and applications are accepted until January 1.

Graduate Program

The graduate program in genetics.

The application cycle for Fall 2024 is now closed. We will begin evaluating applications shortly. If you have questions, please contact Graduate Services Coordinator Tyler DeAtley ([email protected]). Applications for the Fall 2025 cycle will open later this year.

The NC State University Genetics Graduate Program was established in 1952 and is one of the longest-running genetics graduate programs in the USA. The graduate training faculty are a highly interactive group performing research in all aspects of genetics from molecules to populations. Our research encompasses behavioral genetics, biomedical genetics, computational genetics and bioinformatics, evolutionary, population and quantitative genetics, and molecular, cellular and developmental genetics. Our faculty utilizes a wide range of traditional and non-traditional model systems in their research. We consider graduate students to be professionals in training. The Program provides broad and comprehensive well-rounded professional training in genetics academia, research, and teaching experience. Students are intimately involved in program activities and have a strong voice in shaping the program. The Genetics Graduate Program also provides flexible academic pathways tailored to meet the background and career goals of the individual student.

The Genetics program is entering an exciting moment. We are in the process of finalizing a merger with the Functional Genomics program. Our two programs have a long history together and this merger will bring new and exciting opportunities in the years ahead. For the Fall 2024 admission cycle, applications for either Genetics or Functional Genomics will be considered for the new combined programs .

Want to visit NC State and the Genetics Program?

The Genetics Program invites top applicants to campus for recruitment events in the early spring. Candidates interested in visiting campus and the program prior to application should consider the Visit NC State Program , part of the North Carolina State University’s Graduate School’s commitment to enhancing the diversity of its graduate programs. The program is held in November each year and offers prospective graduate students, and particularly those interested in Ph.D. programs, an opportunity to visit our campus, at no cost, to learn more about current research of our faculty and graduate students, and to experience the quality of our graduate programs.

Learn more about this opportunity and apply for consideration at the link below!

Graduate Program FAQs

Click the Request More Information button below if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.

How do I apply? Show Less Show More

• Access the online application via the NCSU Graduate School website: applygrad.ncsu.edu/apply/

What are the application requirements? Show Less Show More

• Application fee ($75 for domestic and US permanent residents, $85 for international)
• One unofficial transcript from each previously attended college or university
• Three recommendations, submitted via the online application
• Personal Statement
• Proof of English Proficiency (non-US citizen applicants only)

What are the requirements for international applicants? Show Less Show More

• More information on English Proficiency can be found here: grad.ncsu.edu/students/rules-and-regulations/catalog/application-and-admissions/english-proficiency/
• The most common visas are F-1 and J-1. More information on these visas can be found here: internationalservices.ncsu.edu/immigration/visa-information-for-f-1-students-j-1-exchange-visitors/
• More information on other visas (not F-1 or J-1) can be found here: internationalservices.ncsu.edu/faculty-and-staff/other-visa-options/
• International applicants already in the U.S. who wish to study at NC State must indicate on the Visa Clearance Form (VCF) whether they wish to remain in their current nonimmigrant status or wish to change their status. A link to the online Visa Clearance Form is issued when the Graduate School sends the academic acceptance letter.
• The Certificate of Financial Responsibility (CFR) requires the candidate to provide evidence of ability to cover all expenses, including those of any accompanying dependents, for each year of study. Students must return the complete CFR to the Graduate School.

Is the GRE required? Show Less Show More

• As of the Fall 2021 admission cycle, the Genetics Program is no longer requiring the GRE for MR, MS, or PhD applications. Applicants may provide their scores if they choose, but it is completely optional.

What degrees options are available? Show Less Show More

• Masters of Genetics (MR), non-thesis
• Masters of Science in Genetics (MS), thesis
• Doctor of Philosophy in Genetics (PhD)
• Graduate Minor in Genetics

What are the course requirements? Show Less Show More

• The course requirements for each degree option can be found at the following link: genetics.sciences.ncsu.edu/graduate-program/course-requirements/

Can I complete my degree part-time? Are online courses available? Show Less Show More

• The only Genetics graduate degree that can be completed part-time is the MR. The MS and the PhD require extensive time spent on coursework and research, resulting in a time commitment similar to a full-time job. Additionally, most of the core courses for all the degree paths are only given in the on-campus format and are not offered online.

Do you offer financial assistance? Show Less Show More

• Genetics graduate students are supported on Research and Teaching Assistantships (RA and TA). Specific pay varies depending on the assistantship, and students are paid bi-weekly.
• Supported on a qualifying graduate assistantship (teaching or research) or fellowship of, at least, $666.67 per month.
• Meet the minimum enrollment requirement – full-time – at all times.
• Enrolled in an on-campus master’s or doctoral program. Distance Education and Graduate Certificate programs do not qualify for the Graduate Student Support Plan.

Do you accept Fall and Spring admits? Show Less Show More

• The Genetics Graduate Program only admits new students for the Fall semester.

Do I need to know which faculty mentor I will work with before I apply/join the program? Show Less Show More

• Not all students need to identify a faculty mentor prior to applying, though some may choose to do so. See our Admissions page for more information on the different pathways into the Genetics Graduate Program.

What should I do the summer before my first year? Show Less Show More

• Contacting faculty and starting lab rotations early
• Participating in summer workshops or continuing education courses

What is the GG Scholars program? Show Less Show More

• The Genetics and Genomics (GG) Scholars umbrella program is built on the philosophy that the exploration of genes and genomes informs all fields of biology. The GG Scholars program is open to current and incoming PhD students. Incoming GG Scholars are able to explore a variety of life sciences graduate programs at NC State University during their first year, while current NC State PhD students have the opportunity to expand their training and research capabilities.
• Learn more about the GG Scholars program at their website: https://ggi.ncsu.edu/graduate-program/

What is the Bridge to Doctorate Fellowship? Show Less Show More

The BD Fellowship award supports 12 dedicated graduate students from domestic underrepresented minority backgrounds who are pursuing graduate studies in STEM programs at NC State University in the Colleges of Sciences and Engineering.

• Stipend of $32,000 annually for first two years
• Tuition, fees, and student health insurance waiver for first two years
• Traditionally underrepresented groups in STEM (African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Native Pacific Islanders) who are seeking to obtain a PhD are eligible to apply
• More information and a link to the application can be found here: genetics.sciences.ncsu.edu/graduate-program/graduate-student-support

Request More Information

Click here to ask a question or get more information

Connect with the G3SA

The goal of the Genetics and Genomics Graduate Student Association (GGGSA) is to keep graduate students informed about NCSU and Genetics Program events, policies, and decisions, as well as to encourage student socialization.

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Modern genetics research seeks to provide a systems-level understanding of biology by relating genome sequence to function and phenotype. The research in the Department of Genetics covers a wide spectrum of biological problems, united by the application of genetics tools and approaches. Research themes range from understanding basic mechanisms in cell biology relating to the mechanics of division, migration and communication, through the large-scale analysis of genome regulation and epigenetic control, to aspects of population biology focused on issues of ecological, evolutionary and human health significance.

Genetics has evolved beyond its traditional boundaries to become a fundamental part of biology and medicine. The Department reflects this pervasiveness with research interests encompassing several high-impact themes, including functional genomics and systems biology, developmental genetics, epigenetic inheritance, evolution and population genetics, microbial genetics, and cell biology.

The Department of Genetics hosts between 50 and 65 postgraduate students across 25 research groups, researching a wide range of biological problems, from population genetics and ecology to the detailed analysis of genome sequence. The Department is based in a historic building on the Downing Site but has research groups located in the Gurdon Institute and Sainsbury Labs as well as an impressive range of local, national and international collaborations.

It is mandatory for applicants to contact prospective supervisors to discuss potential projects before making a formal application; applicants who have not done this may not receive full consideration. Prospective students must then indicate their potential supervisor(s) on their application form. Supervisors and their research areas are listed on the Department of Genetics website on the  Research Groups  and  Group Leaders pages .

Most candidates taking this option start in October, to take advantage of Departmental and University induction programmes, but admission in January or April is also possible.

Please note: part-time study may not always be viable and will be considered on a case-by-case basis, so please discuss this option with your proposed supervisor before making an application for this mode of study. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their own research;
• demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies;
• demonstrated self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research;
• independence in designing and conducting a substantial body of original research, and preparing that data in a format suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of genetics, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024, easter 2025, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

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