Program Overview

Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology

General Information

• Faculty working with students: 64
• Students: 78
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part-time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: December 1

Program Description

The Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology graduate program trains young researchers to solve fundamental problems in microbiology and genetics. Research in the program spans both model and pathogenic organisms and the full spectrum of genetics from unicellular to multicellular eukaryotic organisms, including bacteria, fungi, C. elegans, zebrafish, stickleback fish, mice, and humans. Interdisciplinary centers associated with the program include the Center for Host-Microbial Interactions, the Center for Virology, the Division of Human Genetics, the Center for RNA Biology, and the Duke Microbiome Center. There is also focus on chromosome biology; DNA repair and surveillance; neuronal development, function and dysfunction in diverse models; as well as next-generation genomic and computational approaches to these questions. In addition to course work, training and interactions are supported by student-centered activities in a diverse, supportive community that includes students, post-doctoral fellows, staff, and faculty.

Application Information

• Application Terms Available: Fall
• Application Deadline: December 1
• Graduate School Application Requirements:
  • 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
    • GRE Subject tests (Biology, Chemistry, or Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology): Optional
  • English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required for applicants whose first language is not English
  • GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required
• Department-Specific Application Requirements:
  • 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.

Statistics

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

Research Areas

The program focuses on various research areas, including:

• Chromosome biology
• DNA repair and surveillance
• Neuronal development, function, and dysfunction in diverse models
• Next-generation genomic and computational approaches
• Interactions with model and pathogenic organisms
• Full spectrum of genetics from unicellular to multicellular eukaryotic organisms

Interdisciplinary Centers

The program is associated with several interdisciplinary centers, including:

• Center for Host-Microbial Interactions
• Center for Virology
• Division of Human Genetics
• Center for RNA Biology
• Duke Microbiome Center

Community and Support

The program offers a diverse, supportive community that includes students, post-doctoral fellows, staff, and faculty, with student-centered activities to support training and interactions.