Molecular/Cellular Biology, PhD
Program Description
Degree Awarded: Molecular/Cellular Biology, PhD
The PhD program in molecular and cellular biology emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches in fundamental and highly applied molecular and cellular biology to answer basic and translational research questions. Students can tailor the program around their interests while gaining skills in the most innovative approaches and techniques.
Faculty have a diverse range of research interests and training opportunities for doctoral students interested in pursuing a degree that extends beyond the traditional boundaries of biological research. Participating faculty members and researchers are drawn from multiple departments, colleges, centers and institutes across the university including:
- New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change
- School of Life Sciences
- School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
- School of Molecular Sciences
Participating faculty members are also based at partner institutions in the greater Phoenix area, including:
- Caris Life Sciences
- Mayo Clinic Arizona
- Phoenix Children's Hospital
- Translational Genomics Research Institute
- University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix
Curriculum
Interdisciplinary participants across ASU
- ASU School of Life Sciences
- ASU Department of Psychology
- ASU New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- ASU School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering
- ASU School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy
- ASU School of Molecular Sciences
- ASU School of Human Evolution and Social Change
- ASU School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
Interdisciplinary participants outside ASU
At a Glance: program details
- Location: Tempe campus
- Second Language Requirement: No
Degree Requirements
Required Core (6 credit hours)
MCB 555 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Sciences (3)
MCB 556 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Biology II (3)
Electives or Research (54 credit hours)
Other Requirements (12 credit hours)
BIO 543 Molecular Genetics and Genomics (3)
BIO 610 Introduction to Responsible Conduct of Research in Life Sciences (1)
MCB 701 Seminar: Molecular and Cellular Biology Colloquium (8)
Culminating Experience (12 credit hours)
MCB 799 Dissertation (12)
Additional Curriculum Information
Courses listed as other requirements may be substituted with approval of the academic unit.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in the biological sciences, biochemistry or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
Applicants must submit the following:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- academic record form
- personal statement
- curriculum vitae or resume
- three letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
Research experience is a desired qualification.
Career Opportunities
Graduates hold positions as researchers and leaders in nongovernmental organizations, biotech and pharma, and in federal and state agencies.
Career examples include:
- faculty in universities and colleges
- leaders of nonprofit organizations
- principal investigators and leaders in private, government, and industrial labs
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Global Opportunities
Global Experience
With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu
Program Contact Information
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