Program Description

The PhD program in Molecular and Cell Biology begins with core courses in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology and quantitative biology. PhD candidates conduct experimental or computational research in a laboratory of their choosing. Research in the department of Biological Sciences is organized into five areas of strength, which are:

• Biochemistry and Biophysics
• Genomics, Systems and Computational Biology
• Microbiology
• Molecular and Cell Biology
• Pathobiology (cancer, neurobiology, infectious disease)

Our faculty members are dedicated to teaching, and classroom experiences are balanced with a substantial research program that serves as the platform for our mentor-based teaching methods. For those who choose the thesis option, lab work will expose students to state-of-the-art research techniques used to understand the molecular mechanisms of biological processes such as gene expression, protein structure and function, carcinogenesis, neurodegeneration, bacterial pathogenicity and symbiosis, metabolism and signaling networks.

The department is well-equipped for research in modern molecular and cell biology. Facilities include next generation sequencing platforms, cell imaging systems, protein and small molecule mass spectrometry and cell sorting.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program seek positions such as: research scientist and professor.

The NSM Career Success Center is an important resource for students pursuing STEM and healthcare careers. Career professionals are available to provide strategies for mastering job interviews, writing professional cover letters and resumes and connecting with campus recruiters, among other services.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Program Information

International Applicants: International applications are accepted during the fall semester only. If you would like to discuss your interest in the program, please email biology@utdallas.edu.

Application Requirements

Degree requirements: Background in calculus, general physics, organic chemistry, biochemistry and general biology, including genetics. Students intending to do research in computational biology should have some background in mathematics and in programming. Entering students not having this background may be required to take some additional course work in their first year or in the summer immediately preceding entry.

Test score required: No

Deadlines: University deadlines apply.