Biology
Overview of Graduate Programs
The Department of Biology offers programs leading to the Master of Science and the Doctor of Philosophy. These are research-focused degrees tailored to the student's interests and career plans through conversations with the faculty mentor, supported by curriculum and weekly seminars. The specific program is determined after consultation between the student and the advisory committee. Two major areas of specialization are available: Environmental/Ecological Science and Biomedical Sciences. The Department of Biology also offers a Master of Science program without a thesis requirement. A five year bachelor’s plus master’s biology program is offered to interested and qualified students.
Individualized programs are prepared to meet the needs and career plans of those enrolling. The two year thesis-based M.S. degree is structured in nature. It is designed to either prepare the student for a research career in government, industry, or academics or to continue toward the Ph.D. degree.
The Ph.D. program is organized so as to fit the goals of each degree candidate. A five member Ph.D. advisory committee designs a program for each candidate to suit the individual’s long-term career objectives.
Assistant Professor; Joint Appointment in School of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
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Applicants must identify a Biology faculty mentor to apply to the Biology graduate program. Once a student is accepted, the faculty mentor will serve as the director of the student’s Graduate Advisory Committee. The composition of this committee is representative of the general field of study in which the student expects to work. The committee helps to plan the student's entire program. The committee generally meets with the student twice a year to offer suggestions and assess progress in the program and thesis or dissertation research.
A student is strongly advised to devote as much time as possible to graduate studies. To satisfy the residency requirement, M.S. students must attend the University as a full-time student for at least one full year. The Ph.D. program is a full-time only program.