Ph.D. in Biology

Program Overview

This graduate program in Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology offers advanced coursework, research rotations, and a tailored education. Students develop a Dissertation Proposal and defend it in front of a Dissertation Committee. The program prepares graduates for postdoctoral positions or faculty roles, with alumni successfully securing positions at prestigious institutions.

Program Outline

Outline:

Year One (1):

• Advanced coursework in Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology I and II, Introduction to Graduate Research I and II, and seminars.
• Two 10-week research rotations in labs of choice, with the possibility of a third rotation in the summer.
• Completion of Step 1 of Qualifying Exams, involving the preparation and defense of a small grant proposal.

Year Two (2):

• Commitment to one research lab.
• Tailoring of education in consultation with advisor and Dissertation Committee.
• Selection of additional elective courses based on research interests.
• Development of Dissertation Proposal, an essential milestone captured in Step 2 of Qualifying Exam.
• The proposal will cover background and significance, specific aims, experimental approach, and a timeline for completion.
• Presentation of the proposal as a seminar and defense in front of Dissertation Committee to demonstrate competence in chosen research area.

Assessment:

• Step 1 of Qualifying Exam: Preparation and defense of a small grant proposal at the culmination of the first year.
• Step 2 of Qualifying Exam: Development and defense of a Dissertation Proposal, covering background and significance, specific aims, experimental approach, and a timeline for completion.
• Annual Dissertation Committee meetings to assess progress and address concerns.

Teaching:

• The program utilizes a combination of teaching methods, including seminars, lectures, and hands-on research experiences.
• Faculty members are research-active and provide guidance and mentorship to students.
• Students have the opportunity to teach as Teaching Assistants (TAs), gaining valuable teaching experience while supporting undergraduate education.

Careers:

• The program has a track record of graduating students that successfully obtain postdoctoral positions in prestigious institutions or faculty positions at other colleges and universities.
• Recent alumni include:
• William King, Postdoctoral Researcher at Stanford University
• Brooke Deal, Postdoctoral Researcher and Research and Development Scientist at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
• David Macar, Assistant Professor of Biology at Ohio Northern University