Graduate Training

The interdisciplinary MCB Program coordinates graduate education related to molecular and cellular biology. Two graduate degrees are available through the MCB Program:

• The Ph.D. degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology requires the following curriculum and research training through faculty affiliates in the Molecular and Cellular Biology Program or through one of the traditional basic science departments.
• The M.S. degree in Applied Biotechnology is designed to provide students with specialized training that will enable them to be productive participants in the biotechnology sector. The Applied Biotechnology Master's track builds on the same fundamental curriculum, adding training in areas where the emphasis in industrial laboratories differs from training needed to pursue a career in basic research.

 Year 1

• Meet with Advisory Committee
• Complete MCB Core Curriculum
• Complete 3 Research rotations
• Attend Seminars/Symposia/Journal Clubs
• Select Research Advisor (by the end of the third rotation)
• Establish Ph.D. Program Committee
• Schedule the Ph.D. Program Meeting

 Year 2

• Complete Elective Courses in Area of Emphasis
• Initiate Ph.D. Thesis Research Project
• Attend Seminars/Symposia/Journal Clubs
• Complete Preliminary Written and Oral Qualifying Examination

 Years 3 - 5

• Continue Thesis Research
• Attend Seminars/Symposia/Journal Clubs
• Attend and Present at Scientific Conferences and Meetings
• Complete 2 Graduate Teaching Assistantships
• Give 3 Professional Oral Presentations
• Prepare and Defend Ph.D. Thesis

For application information about the MCB Program, contact us at: