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The Biology PhD program is an intensive research-focused degree designed to equip students for careers as researchers, educators, policy advisors, or leaders in academic or industry settings. The program generally involves 1-2 years of coursework followed by multiple years of cutting-edge biological research. Doctoral candidates receive primary guidance from their major professor and advisory committee across the department's three specialized areas. The Biological Science Department provides both Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs, featuring robust research opportunities in experimental and theoretical biology. Faculty expertise spans diverse fields including biophysics, molecular biology, cellular biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, microbiology, neurobiology, and conservation biology. Collaborative opportunities exist with other departments such as Oceanography, Chemistry, and Psychology, as well as with the College of Medicine's Biomedical Sciences division. Faculty participate in interdisciplinary programs like the Institute of Molecular Biophysics and Neuroscience Program, offering training in molecular, physiological, and neuroethological approaches to studying nervous system functions and disorders. Additionally, a specialized federal program supports doctoral and postdoctoral training in the chemical senses, focusing on olfactory and taste research.
GPA: 3.0 or better, on all upper division work.
We do not have a minimum GRE score for admission, but applicants with GRE scores below 153 verbal and 146 quantitative need to have strong research backgrounds, and a GPA >3.2 on upper division courses.
TOEFL (International Only): 92 total, 26 on speaking.