Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biology

Total Credits: 30-36 credits (excluding dissertation)

Core Courses

1. BIOL7101 - Advanced Research Methods

• - Credits: 3

• - Prerequisites: Master's degree in Biology or related field

• - Description: In-depth training in qualitative and quantitative research techniques, data analysis, and laboratory practices tailored for advanced biological research.

2. BIOL7201 - Experimental Design in Life Sciences

• - Credits: 3

• - Prerequisites: BIOL7101

• - Description: Principles of designing robust and reproducible experiments, statistical analysis, and interpreting biological data.

3. BIOL7301 - Systems & Synthetic Biology

• - Credits: 3

• - Prerequisites: BIOL7101 & BIOL7201

• - Description: Study of biological systems modeling, network analysis, and engineering synthetic biological circuits.

4. BIOL7401 - Advanced Biomedical Research

• - Credits: 3

• - Prerequisites: BIOL7101

• - Description: Cutting-edge biomedical research techniques, translational research, and clinical applications.

5. BIOL7501 - Ecological & Evolutionary Theory

• - Credits: 3

• - Prerequisites: BIOL7501 (Undergraduate ecology/evolution or instructor approval)

• - Description: Theoretical frameworks explaining ecological interactions, evolution, and biodiversity dynamics.

6. BIOL7601 - Scientific Writing & Publication

• - Credits: 2

• - Prerequisites: Graduate standing or instructor approval

• - Description: Developing skills in scientific writing, peer-review process, and publishing in high-impact journals.

7. BIOL7701 - Doctoral Seminar

• - Credits: 2

• - Prerequisites: Graduate standing

• - Description: Presentation of research progress, critical review of literature, and discussion of scientific issues.

8. BIOL7901 - Dissertation Research

• - Credits: 12

• - Prerequisites: Completion of coursework and qualifying exams

• - Description: Independent, original research culminating in a dissertation; includes data collection, analysis, writing, and defense.

Prerequisites & Electives

Prerequisites:

1. - A Master's degree in Biology or a closely related field with research experience.

2. - Successful completion of coursework in research methods, experimental design, and relevant biological sciences.

3. - Passing qualifying exams or comprehensive assessments.

Electives (Sample options):

1. - Advanced Genomics and Bioinformatics

2. - Structural Biology and Imaging

3. - Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine

4. - Climate Change Biology

5. - Microbiome and Host Interactions

6. - Neuroscience & Brain Function

7. - Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering

(Electives are tailored to research interests and career goals.)

Program Structure & Flow

1. Core Courses:

• - Foundational research training and advanced experimental techniques.

2. Electives:

• - Selected to deepen expertise in specialized areas related to dissertation research.

3. Qualifying Exams:

• - Usually after coursework, to assess readiness for independent research.

4. Dissertation Research:

• - Conducted under faculty supervision, culminating in dissertation writing and defense.