phd in genetic engineering

Ph.D. Program

Graduate studies.

The Genetics Ph.D. program provides opportunities for graduate study in all major areas of modern genetics, including identification and analysis of human disease genes, molecular evolution, gene therapy, statistical genetics, application of model organisms to problems in biology and medicine, and computational and experimental approaches to genome biology.

An underlying theme in our Department is that genetics is not merely a set of tools but a coherent and fruitful way of thinking about biology and medicine. To this end, we emphasize a spectrum of approaches based on molecules, organisms, populations, and genomes.

We provide training through laboratory rotations, dissertation research, seminar series, didactic and interactive coursework, and an annual three-day retreat.

Students receive a competitive stipend ($51,600) for the 2023-24 Academic Year), tuition, health insurance, and a dental care stipend for a full four years. We also encourage students to seek additional fellowships, including but not limited to: NSF GRFP , NIH F31 , NDSEG , Stanford Bio-X fellowship , Stanford DARE , and Stanford CEHG Fellowship .

Lab Rotations

Students rotate through 3 laboratories during their first year in the Genetics Graduate Program. While most students start in Fall Quarter, students are encouraged to consider participating in the  Advance Summer Institute  for a smoother early transition into graduate school. There is a nomination & selection process. The department nominates, so if you are interested please let the department student services officer know. The program is not meant to be a source of summer bridge funding or simply an early rotation opportunity. There are many components to the program that require commitment of time and effort and the funding, reflects both the expectation of full participation and belief that participants should be compensated for these efforts. Office of Graduate Education does the selection for ADVANCE. There is no guarantee that if you are nominated that you will be of admitted into ADVANCE.

Rotations typically last one quarter each, but can be less and are contingent upon the faculty member agreeing to the rotation request. All Genetics students must rotate with at least 1 Genetics faculty member (primary or secondary appointment). Other rotations may be done with any Bioscience faculty.

While students may select a thesis laboratory after completing their third rotation, you can do more Selection of the dissertation research laboratory must be done with the faculty member's approval. Prior to committing to a dissertation laboratory, students are invited to discuss their selection with the Graduate Program Director. Students are welcome to join labs outside of the Genetics Department; if so, they will discuss with the Graduate Program Director whether transferring into that department would be beneficial.

Dissertation Research

Once a student selects a permanent laboratory, they begin their dissertation research that will last for approximately four years. All students are expected to publish at least one first-author paper about their research during this time period, and the work culminates with a thesis defense presentation and written dissertation. See the Genetics Student Handbook for more information.

Coursework, Qualifying Exams, and other Requirements

Students in the Genetics Graduate Program take the Qualifying Examination in the Fall Quarter of their second year of study. There are two parts to the exam, a written research proposal and an oral examination.

Ami Bhatt, Dylan Maghini, and collaborators from the University of the Witwatersrand visit with researchers and staff at the MRC/Wits Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit in Agincourt, South Africa.

Ami Bhatt, Dylan Maghini, and collaborators tour the MRC/Wits Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit labs and biobank facility in Agincourt, South Africa.

Service Requirement

Service and outreach are a critical component of a student’s development as a scientist, and offer unique opportunities to learn by interacting with individuals outside the Department. Students are expected to participate in a minimum of 60 hours of service and/or outreach work prior to defending their dissertation.

Supplementary Educational Activities

In addition to your courses, qualifying exams, and dissertation, the Genetics Department has arranged additional educational activities for students. These regularly occurring meetings are:

Current Issues in Genetics (CIG) Two people from the Genetics Department give 20-25 minute presentations about their current work at this weekly Friday meeting. Students in their third year and above are expected to present their work annually. This series gives students the chance to learn about the range of science going on in the department and provides a great opportunity to give formal presentations to peers and colleagues. 

Graduate Student Journal Club This weekly journal club is organized completely by graduate students from the Genetics and Developmental Biology Departments. At each meeting, one or two graduate students lead 30 minute discussions on their choice of a recent journal article. For the first three years of the Ph.D. program, each student presents once per academic year.

Refreshments are provided by the graduate students and reimbursed up to the current year limit. Reimbursement requires an original receipt to the Student Services Coordinator.

Frontiers in Biology  Every week, the Departments of Genetics, Developmental Biology, and Biochemistry host an external speaker through the “Frontiers in Biology” seminar series. First year students also take a course related to this seminar (GENE 215), where they discuss a relevant paper the day before and meet the speaker after the presentation. 

Frontiers is held most Wednesdays at 4pm in Clark Auditorium.

Other Seminar Series There are many other regular seminar series on campus that students choose to attend. Some of the most popular include:

Center of Law and the Biosciences lunchtime talks. See CLB events calendar or subscribe to the listserv

Evolgenome (organized by CEHG). See CEHG website or subscribe to the listserv

Teaching and Mentoring Academy Events. See TMA website or subscribe to the listserv

Discussing Developmental Data (3D). See events schedule

Biomedical Seminars. See events schedule or subscribe to the listserv

Requirements

Important forms.

Service Requirement Form Click Here

Other Important Info

Please examine the research interests and laboratory descriptions available from the Department Faculty page.

The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs maintains a list of open postdoctoral positions. This site also provides useful information to those considering postdoctoral positions at Stanford.

Human Genetics and Genomics, PhD

School of medicine, ph.d. program.

The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics Training Program provides a training in all aspects of human genetics and genomics relevant to human biology, health and disease. 

Advances in human genetics and genomics continue at an astounding rate and increasingly they are being integrated into medical practice. The Human Genetics Program aims to educate highly motivated and capable students with the knowledge and experimental tools that will enable them to answer important questions at the interface between genetics and medicine. Ultimately, our trainees will be the leaders in delivering the promise of genetics to human health.

The overall objective of the Human Genetics program is to provide our students with a strong foundation in basic science by exposure to a rigorous graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and biostatistics as well as a core of medically-related courses selected to provide knowledge of human biology in health and disease. 

This program is also offered as training for medical students in the combined M.D./Ph.D. program.  Students apply to the combined program at the time of application to the M.D. program. (See section entitled Medical Scientist Training Program).

Research Facilities

Research laboratories are well equipped to carry out sophisticated research in all areas of genetics. The proximity to renown clinical facilities of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, including the Department of Genetic Medicine, and Oncology Center provides faculty and students with access to a wealth of material for study. Computer and library facilities are excellent. Laboratories involved in the Human Genetics Program span Johns Hopkins University; consequently supporting facilities are extensive.

Financial Aid

The program is supported by a training grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. These fellowships, which are restricted to United States citizens and permanent United States residents, cover tuition, health care insurance and a stipend during year one.  Once a student has joined a thesis lab, all financial responsibilities belong to the mentor.   Students are encouraged, however, to apply for fellowships from outside sources (e.g., the National Science Foundation, Fulbright Scholars Program, Howard Hughes Medical Institute) before entering the program.

Applicants for admission should show a strong academic foundation with coursework in biology, chemistry and quantitative analysis.   Applicants are encouraged to have exposure to lab research or to data science.  A bachelor's degree from a qualified college or university will be required for matriculation.  GREs are no longer required.

The Human Genetics site has up-to-date information on “ How to Apply .” For questions not addressed on these pages, please access the contact imformation listed on the program page: Human Genetics and Genomics Training Program | Johns Hopkins Department of Genetic Medicine (hopkinsmedicine.org) .

Program Requirements

The program includes the following required core courses: Advanced Topics in Human Genetics, Evolving Concept of the Gene, Molecular Biology and Genomics, Cell Structure and Dynamics, Computational Bootcamp,  Pathways and Regulation, Genomic Technologies, Rigor and Reproducibility in Research, and Systems, Genes and Mechanisms of Disease. Numerous elective courses are available and are listed under sponsoring departments.

Our trainees must take a minimum of four electives, one of which must provide computational/statistical training.

The HG program requires the “OPTIONS” Career Curriculum offered by the Professional Development and Career Office.  OPTIONS is designed to provide trainees with the skills for career building and the opportunity for career exploration as well as professional development training

Human Genetics trainees also take a two-week course in July at the Jackson Labs in Bar Harbor, Maine entitled "Human and Mammalian Genetics and Genomics: The McKusick Short Course" which covers the waterfront from basic principles to the latest developments in mammalian genetics. The faculty numbers about 50 and consists roughly in thirds of JAX faculty, Hopkins faculty and “guest” faculty comprising outstanding mammalian geneticists from other US universities and around the world.

The courses offered by the faculty of the program are listed below. All courses are open to graduate students from any university program as well as selected undergraduates with permission of the course director.

Trainees must complete three research rotations before deciding on their thesis lab.  They must also participate in the Responsible Conduct of Research sessions offered by the Biomedical Program; starting at year 3, students must attend at least two Research Integrity Colloquium lectures per year. 

Our trainees participate in weekly journal clubs, department seminars, monthly Science & Pizza presentations as well as workshops given twice a year on diversity, identity and culture.

At the end of the second year, trainees take their Doctoral Board Oral Examination.  Annual thesis committee meetings must be held following successful completion of this exam.

Average time for completion is 5.3 years.

Graduates from the Human Genetics program pursue careers in academia, medicine, industry, teaching, government, law, as well the private sector.  Our trainees are encouraged to explore the full spectrum of professional venues in which their training my provide a strong foundation. Driven by curiosity and a desire for excellence, our trainees stand out as leaders in the chosen arenas of professional life. They are supported in the development of their career plans by a program faculty and administration who are dedicated to their success, and by a myriad of support networks across the Johns Hopkins University, many of which are provided by the Professional Development Career Office of the School of Medicine.

Top 10 US Universities For Genetic Engineering

Genetic Engineering employs techniques and processes to manipulate genes using biotechnology artificially. Application of genetic engineering is popular in  four key areas:

• Altering the genotype of crops to increase yields and quality, reduce pesticides use and make crops disease resistant
• Producing useful drugs, vaccines, and hormones at low costs
• Generating industrial chemicals at large scale
• Producing huge biomass that is used as fuel or can be processed into oils, alcohols, diesel, or other energy products

Bachelor’s Degree in  Genetic Engineering

Most universities offer majors in life sciences, physical sciences, or engineering, all of which will open your door to Genetic Engineering. Biology, however, is the most popular major among those going into Genetic Engineering.

Master’s Degree in  Genetic Engineering

Many students who want to go into Genetic Engineering do their Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, which comprises of genetic engineering and molecular medicine. Most biomedical engineering students end up choosing the Ph.D. route, thus spending a long time in academic study committing to a long-term career. However, for those looking to a fast-track into a professional career in the industry, many universities offer a professional master’s degree in biotechnology, helping you jumpstart your career in the industry.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Degree in Genetic Engineering

If you have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the relevant fields, you can enter into a Ph.D. program with a focus on genetic engineering.

Below are the top 10 US universities offering degrees in genetic engineering:

• University of Pennsylvania
• University of Texas at Austin 
• Duke University
• John Hopkins
• New Mexico State University
• Harvard University
• University of Massachusetts 
• Oregon State University
• Case Western Reserve University
• Columbia University

Beyond these 10 universities, many other excellent colleges and universities offer highly competitive courses in genetic engineering.

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Furthering our understanding of biology and human disease

Program Overview

The Department of Human Genetics at the University of Michigan was founded by Dr. James V. Neel in 1956 and was the first human genetics department in the United States. The initial focus of the department was human heredity, and this view has grown in breadth and depth through the genomic and post-genomic eras.

Our faculty include AAAS, National Academy and Institute of Medicine Fellows, Howard Hughes Investigators, and winners of University and Medical School teaching awards. Interactions among students and faculty ensure a comprehensive foundation in the many aspects of genetics, from genome function, to population diversity and the molecular mechanisms of disease. Collaborations within the department, across the University, nation-wide and internationally emphasize the crucial role of genetics in addressing global problems in human biology and disease.

A central mission of the Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program is to train students to confront these problems scientifically through a rigorous but flexible foundation in coursework and research.

Apply through our PIBS application

Graduate students have the opportunity to carry out interdisciplinary genetics research in diverse areas.

Examples of current research topics include:

• Cancer genetics
• Developmental genetics
• DNA recombination and repair
• Epigenetics
• Evolutionary and population genetics
• Genome structure, function, and regulation
• Genetic mapping of complex traits and diseases
• Medical genetics
• Molecular basis of Mendelian Disorders
• Neurogenetics
• Statistical genetics and genetic epidemiology

The multidisciplinary nature of this research is demonstrated by strong faculty involvement in the Genetics Training Program and Genome Science Training Grants, which are both supported by the NIH for 40 and 25 years, respectively. The Genetics Training Program is directed from the Department of Human Genetics, with faculty and student participation from five other PhD programs. The Genome Science Training Grant is co led by HG, with faculty and student participation from eight other PhD programs across the University of Michigan campus.

Genetics and Genomics students and faculty also participate in training programs in Bioinformatics; Cancer Biology; Genome Sciences; Organogenesis; Reproductive Biology; and Hearing, Balance, and Chemical Senses.

The core training in Genetics and Genomics consists of courses in molecular genetics, the genetic basis of human disease, and quantitative and statistical genetics. Additional courses are selected from within the Department of Human Genetics and throughout the University to strengthen one or more core areas. Coursework is designed to meet the individual training goals of students in the Program.

In addition to the core courses, students participate in the weekly student seminars, in which they learn to analyze and present research literature before the greater genetics community, including faculty and students. In the second year, students take Current Topics, a small class that focuses on current methods in genetic research through discussions of selected primary scientific literature, with student-led presentations.

The interactive and interdisciplinary nature of Genetics and Genomics is also highlighted by Departmental and training program seminars on cutting-edge topics presented by high-profile outside speakers, some of whom are selected by the students.

Preliminary Examination

Students take a preliminary examination during the Summer after their first year. The exam is a written and oral defense of the student’s proposed thesis research. Students advance to candidacy once they have passed the preliminary examination, completed certain course requirements, and received the approval of their thesis research mentor.

Teaching Requirement

While teaching is not a Program requirement, most Genetics and Genomics students spend at least one term as a teaching assistant, generally in their second or third year. Additional teaching opportunities are available through several outreach programs.

Expected Length of Program

After completion of required coursework, the doctoral dissertation is generally completed within 5 years of graduate study; however, this varies among students.

The Department of Human Genetics includes more than 21 Genetics and Genomics PhD students, as well as 27 primary faculty and 16 joint faculty whose primary appointments represent six additional departments. Up to eight students join our program each year and the Department is in an active growth phase with faculty added over the last few years and more recruitment planned.

Our students have received national fellowships and awards for their research, have served on national committees including in the American Society of Human Genetics, and have been recognized with the University of Michigan Distinguished Dissertation Award , the highest honor the University confers to recognize graduate student accomplishments.

Students get to know faculty and their research through numerous events throughout the year, including the Department retreat, Genetics and Genomics Retreat, the James V. Neel Lectureship, and the Thomas D. Gelehrter Lectureship. The Department of Human Genetics sponsors a seminar series of external speakers, short courses with several speakers on a related theme, and a weekly seminar given by trainees in the Department. There are also a variety of informal special interest groups that offer opportunities for students to present and get advice on their research findings.

Over 180 Genetics and Genomics PhD graduates have gone on to successful careers in academic research and teaching, biotechnology, and scientific consulting, among other professions.

Learn more about the Department of Genetics and Genomics.

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Ph.D. in Genetics and Genomics

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 100
• Students: 64
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: November 30

Website:  http://upg.duke.edu

Program Description

The program provides a unified curriculum of study in genetics and genomics leading to the Ph.D. Areas of specialization include population and evolutionary genetics, microbial and viral genetics, human and mammalian genetics, developmental genetics, epigenomics, and plant genetics. This is an interdisciplinary program with faculty drawn from several departments (Biochemistry, Biology, Cell Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Immunology, Neurobiology, Pathology and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology) as well as from the Institute of Molecular Physiology.

• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Genetics and Genomics: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline:  November 30

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Department-Specific Application Requirements (submitted through online application)

Writing Sample None required

Additional Components Optional Video Essay: How would a Duke PhD training experience help you achieve your academic and professional goals? Max video length 2 minutes; record externally and provide URL in application.

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

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PhD in Genetics & Genomics

For contact information, please visit the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics website .

The Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics aims to teach our students not only how to apply the approaches of hypothesis-testing genetics and hypothesis-generating genomics to biomedical research, but also how to function as active members of the scientific community who can clearly communicate ideas, critically evaluate biomedical research, and mentor others in scientific scholarship.

Learning Outcomes

The doctoral programs in Graduate Medical Sciences at BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine are designed to train scholars to be leaders in their respective fields of biomedical research. Trainees become fluent in their areas of specialization, as well as develop competencies that provide the foundation for lifelong learning and practice in their chosen field. Trainees will demonstrate and apply the professional and scientific skills necessary to benefit society. The program objectives are delineated below.

By graduation, a Genetics & Genomics PhD student will:

• Generate an original body of work in the biomedical sciences that reflects critical thinking and independent thought.
• Demonstrate competencies in advanced research skills and critical thinking.
• Develop the ability to communicate both through writing and orally within their chosen field of expertise, with specialists and non-experts.
• Demonstrate a commitment to professional development and continued learning in their chosen field.

Toward this end, we have designed a complementary set of degree requirements to meet these goals consisting of traditional coursework, journal clubs, seminar series, and a research proposal–based qualifying examination for PhD students. The coursework will be completed during the first two years of study. Students matriculate in September of their first year as Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS) PhD students, and they choose their degree-granting program at the end of their first year. The academic program requirements below reflect the combined program of study.

Please see the general description of the MD/PhD program for combined degree requirements.

Course Requirements

• GMS FC 708 Professional Development Skills
• GMS FC 711 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences I: Protein Structure, Catalysis, and Interactions
• GMS FC 712 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences II: Structure and Function of the Genome
• GMS FC 713 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences III: Architecture and Dynamics of the Cell
• GMS FC 714 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences IV: Mechanisms of Cell Communication
• GMS FC 715 Foundations in Biomedical Sciences V: Translational Genetics and Genomics or  GMS MM 710 Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine
• GMS FC 721 Statistical Reasoning for the Basic Biomedical Sciences
• GMS FC 764 Professional Presentation Skills
• GMS GC 716 Social, Cultural, and Ethical Issues in Genetics, ENG BF 752 Legal and Ethical Issues of Science and Technology,  or GMS GE 706 Deconstructing Systemic Bias: Where Biology Ends and Bias Begins
• GMS GE 701 Principles of Genetics and Genomics
• GMS GE 703 Genetics and Genomics Colloquium I
• GMS GE 704 Genetics and Genomics Colloquium II
• 4 elective credits

For MD/PhD Candidates:

• GMS GC 716 Social, Cultural, and Ethical Issues in Genetics, ENG BF 752 Legal and Ethical Issues of Science and Technology, or GMS GE 706 Deconstructing Systemic Bias: Where Biology Ends and Bias Begins

See Courses for detailed descriptions.

Laboratory Rotations

Our PhD candidates participate in a minimum of three laboratory rotations to ensure exposure to a variety of scientific approaches. These rotations will last 10 weeks each, with one during the fall semester and two during the spring semester. The rotations are organized during the first year of study while the students are PiBS students and before they officially join the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics. PiBS students begin their first year of studies in the fall semester and join their degree-granting program at the end of the spring of their first year. Due to time constraints, MD/PhD students will have the option of joining a dissertation laboratory after two rotations. The academic and research components of the program together typically take 5–6 years of full-time academic study to complete for PhD students, and 4–5 years for dual degree MD/PhD students.

Teaching Requirement

Upon successful completion of the core courses, PhD students serve as teaching assistants (TAs) for one of the program’s courses. The TAs will lead discussion and review sections as well as support exam and homework grading. The TA assignments will be made according to academic performance in the courses in question and with student input. Acting as a TA for one course will satisfy the teaching requirement for the PhD degree, but further teaching opportunities will be available for students who are interested in developing these skills.

The Qualifying Process

Successful completion of the coursework and rotations during the first two years of graduate study will prepare the PhD students to advance to PhD candidacy through the qualifying process. This process depends on the following sequence of events:

• Completion of all required core and elective courses with a passing grade (A to B– average for all courses, with the exception of 900-level courses [research credits], which are graded on a Pass/Fail scale).
• Skilled preparation of a 5–10-page, written, grant-style dissertation proposal based on the dissertation research. This portion of the qualifying process will satisfy the written qualification requirement of Graduate Medical Sciences.
• Expert performance in an oral examination based on the written proposal. This forum will test the student’s ability to think critically about the area of their dissertation research and about biological problems in general. The examining panel will also be free to explore outside topics in order to assess the student’s knowledge of genetics and genomics broadly. The examining panel will be chosen by the student and dissertation advisor based on related areas of expertise to the proposed dissertation research. The panel will be composed of five faculty members, three members who must be faculty of the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics and two additional members who are faculty members at Boston University but outside the program. The examining panel will be required to adhere to the written guidelines of the Qualifying Examination Format Committee to ensure equitable administration of the exam.

Dissertation Research

Upon advancing to PhD candidacy, graduate students will focus on their dissertation research. This research will be conducted under the supervision of their chosen graduate advisor. The student will be responsible for conducting a rigorous, in-depth program of investigation into an area of research that is within the scope of their graduate advisor’s expertise and interests. The student’s progress will be assessed continuously by the graduate advisor and annually by a Dissertation Advisory Committee. This committee will be composed of the student’s advisor and at least four other faculty members with a minimum of two faculty members from the Graduate Program in Genetics & Genomics and one division faculty member from an outside program. The Dissertation Advisory Committee will serve to provide outside perspectives on the research program.

While the student is conducting dissertation research, they are expected to actively participate in program seminar series, lab meetings, and other research activities of their dissertation lab. It should be noted that the Boston University Genome Science Institute hosts seminars, including talks from prominent scientists from other institutions as well as talks from scientists with overlapping interests to the program here at BU. Students also have the opportunity to interact more privately with visiting seminar speakers through organized student lunch forums. Students and post-docs also participate in a Research in Progress series of seminars that gives trainees an opportunity to share their research and to learn more about the science going on in the Genetics & Genomics community of Boston University. Furthermore, students will be expected to complete the certificate program in “The Responsible Conduct of Research” that is currently available to the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine  through a series of four 2-hour workshops.

Although the period of dissertation research will not be limited in maximal duration, it is the job of the Dissertation Advisory Committee to facilitate expeditious progress toward the PhD degree. Once the research has developed into several chapters of publication quality work, the advisory committee will ask the student to begin compiling their written dissertation, and a date for the Graduate Medical Sciences public seminar and formal dissertation defense will be scheduled. The public seminar will be delivered to a general audience of Graduate Medical Sciences faculty, students, and researchers. Later that day, the public seminar will be followed by a formal dissertation defense, which will occur behind closed doors in the presence of the Dissertation Advisory Committee. This committee will evaluate the student’s dissertation defense and written dissertation for satisfactory completion of the degree requirements.

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• Program in Biomedical Sciences
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genes • gene editing • heredity• evolution • genetic variability • phenotypic variability • horizontal gene transfer • meiosis • recombination • epigenetics • DNA repair and replication • chromosome segregation • cell division • gene regulation • development • aging • pathogenesis • cancer • disease

David Bartel

Iain m. cheeseman, olivia corradin, gerald r. fink, mary gehring, alan d. grossman, leonard p. guarente, michael t. hemann, h. robert horvitz, david housman, siniša hrvatin, tyler jacks, chris a. kaiser, kristin knouse, eric s. lander, michael t. laub, ruth lehmann, troy littleton, david c. page, peter reddien, francisco j. sánchez-rivera, anthony j. sinskey, graham c. walker, yukiko yamashita.

Siniša Hrvatin studies states of stasis, such as mammalian torpor and hibernation, as a means to harness the potential of these biological adaptations to advance medicine.

Evolution in Action Series: Birth of a species

Scientists develop a rapid gene-editing screen to find effects of cancer mutations

Uncovering answers to longstanding questions about sex differences in autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases

De-tail-ing RNA regulation in eggs and early embryos

How cells accurately assemble complex machinery

Sex chromosomes responsible for much more than determining sex

Cell fate choice during adult regeneration is highly disorganized, new study finds

Maintaining fertility requires uneven division of DNA

PhD Studies in Life and Biomedical Sciences

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Genetics and Genomics

• Immunology and Microbial Sciences
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• Structural Biology and Biophysics

Genetics, the science of inheritance and variation among living organisms, can be traced back to the seminal work of Gregor Mendel, published in 1866. Yet today genetics is one of the most fast-moving fields of biomedical research. Technological progress driven by the relatively new science of genomics, the study of the genomes of organisms, has led to rapid advances over the past few years. We now have the complete DNA sequence of many genomes and are able to decipher the mechanisms that regulate gene expression, configure chromatin architecture, recruit transcription factors and activate or silence individual loci or gene networks. Moreover, we can investigate the cross-talk between the genome and the epigenome, the modifications that alter gene expression but do not change the underlying DNA sequence. These dynamic processes are critical for normal development and differentiated function of distinct cell types in an organism and their failure results in a wide spectrum of human diseases.

Northwestern University is home to a vibrant and interactive group of scientists carrying out world-class, state-of-the-art research into fundamental mechanisms of genetics, genomics and epigenomics. The Genetics and Genomics cluster enhances and builds advanced training for our graduate students in these subject areas. This is an inclusive training opportunity that is available to all trainees on the several university campuses, irrespective of their primary field of study, or their departmental or geographical affiliations.

Training opportunities include:

1.  State of the art workshops.  Workshops will focus on technology or computational biology relevant to genetics and genomics Recent workshops include practical classes on bioinformatic pipelines, and programming skills.

2.  Genetics and Genomics seminars.  High profile scientists will be chosen and invited by the trainees.  Other relevant seminar series and journal clubs are ongoing.

3.  Annual Symposium.  This event is organized jointly by the cluster leadership and the trainees. It brings eminent keynote speakers to the university and includes talks from Northwestern faculty and students. The symposium provides an opportunity for the students to showcase their work and network in the Northwestern Genetics and Genomics community.

Cluster Director

• Christine DiDonato, PhD Professor, Pediatrics, Director, Human Molecular Genetics Program, SMCRI

Training Faculty  

1. Chromatin and Epigenetics.

• Jason Brickner*, PhD (IBiS) Spatial organization of the nucleus and gene expression
• Debabrata Chakravarti*, PhD (DGP) Hormone signaling and chromatin modifications
• Ramana Davuluri*, PhD (DGP) Translational bioinformatics and cancer genomics
• Kyle Eagen*, PhD (DGP) Structural and biochemical basis of chromatin folding and chromosome segregation
• Daniel Foltz*, PhD (DGP) Centromeric chromatin assembly and chromosome segregation
• Lifang Hou*, MD, PhD (DGP) Environmental, genetic and epigenetic risk factors for disease
• Steve Kosak*, PhD (DGP) Nuclear Form and Function during Cellular Differentiation and Disease
• John Marko*, PhD (IBiS) Protein-DNA interactions, and chromosome structure and dynamics
• Christopher Payne*, PhD (DGP) Epigenetics of Stem Cells and the Stem Cell Niche
• Ali Shilatifard*, PhD (DGP) Molecular machinery for histone modifications
• Sadie Wignall, PhD (IBiS)  Chromosome dynamics during oocyte meiosis
• Jindan Yu*, PhD (DGP) Genetic and epigenetic pathways to prostate cancer
• Wei Zhang*, PhD (DGP) Genetics and epigenetics of complex traits

2. Regulation of Gene Expression and Transcription Factors.

• Ravi Allada*, MD (IBiS) Molecular Genetics of Sleep and Circadian Rhythms
• Erik Andersen*, PhD (IBiS) Gene identification and disease susceptibility
• Grant Barish*, MD (DGP) Transcriptional regulators of inflammation and metabolism
• Joseph Bass*, MD, PhD (DGP) Circadian and metabolic gene networks in the development of diabetes and obesity
• John Crispino*, PhD (DGP) Transcriptional regulation of normal and malignant blood cell development
• Marco Gallio*, PhD (IBiS) The processing of temperature stimuli in the brain
• Jamie Garcia-Anoveros*, PhD (DGP)  Sensory and Developmental Neurobiology
• Geoff Kansas*, PhD (DGP) Transcriptional control of Fut7 in hematopoeitic cells
• Carole LaBonne*, PhD (IBiS) Formation, migration and differentiation of neural crest cells
• Vijay Sarthy*, PhD (DGP) Gene regulation, development and functional organization of the vertebrate retina
• Beatriz Sosa-Pineda*, PhD (DGP) Role of homeodomain-containing transcription factors in pancreas and liver organogenesis
• Alex Stegh*, MD, PhD (DGP) Defining and targeting the oncogenome of glioblastoma
• Eric Weiss*, PhD (IBiS) Signaling Pathways in the Control of Cell Architecture
• Jane Wu*, MD, PhD (DGP) Molecular mechanisms regulating gene expression and their involvement in the pathogenesis of age-related disease

3. Animal Models for Human Genetic Disease.

• Greg Beitel*, PhD (IBiS) Molecular Genetics of Organ Morphogenesis
• Thomas Bozza*, PhD (IBiS) Molecular Genetics and Physiology of Olfaction
• Richard Carthew*, PhD (IBiS) RNAi and Gene Regulation
• Gemma Carvill*, PhD (DGP) Genetic causes and pathogenic mechanisms that underlie epilepsy
• Jaehyuk Choi*, MD, PhD (DGP) Genetic basis of inherited and acquired immunological disorders and skin diseases
• John Crispino*, PhD (DGP) Mechanisms of normal and malignant blood cell growth
• Christine DiDonato*, PhD (DGP) Molecular basis of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
• Yuanyi Feng*, PhD (DGP) Cellular and molecular mechanisms of cerebral cortex development
• Alfred George, Jr.*, MD (DGP) Structure, function, pharmacology and molecular genetics of ion channels and channelopathies
• Richard Green*, MD (DGP) Genetics and molecular biology of cholestatic liver diseases and fatty liver disorders
• Robert Holmgren*, PhD (IBiS) Cell-fate specification during development
• Jennifer Kearney*, PhD (DGP) Genetic basis of epilepsy
• Dimitri Krainc*, MD, PhD (DGP) Mechanisms of neuronal dysfunction in neurodegenerative disorders
• Nikia Laurie*, PhD (DGP) Molecular mechanisms of retinoblastoma progression
• Yong-Chao Ma*, PhD (DGP) Regulation of motor neuron and dopaminergic neuron function in development and disease
• Puneet Opal*, MD, PhD (DGP) Cellular basis of neurodegeneration
• P. Hande Ozdinler*, PhD (DGP) Cortical component of motor neuron circuitry degeneration in ALS and related disorders
• Teepu Siddique*, MD (DGP) Causes, mechanisms, and modeling of neurodegenerative disorders
• Fred Turek*, PhD (IBiS) Sleep and Circadian Rhythms
• Xiaozhong (Alec) Wang*, PhD (IBiS) Genetic Analysis of Protocadherin Diversity in the Central Nervous System

4. Novel Genetic Technologies and Bioinformatics.

• Rosemary Braun*, PhD, MPH (IBiS) Analyzing high-throughput genomic data in the context of biological systems
• Elizabeth McNally*, MD, PhD (DGP) Genetic mechanisms responsible for inherited human disease
• Minoli Perera*, PharmD, PhD (DGP) Pharmacogenomics research in minority patient populations
• Ishwar Radhakrishnan*, PhD (IBiS) Structure, function, dynamics and informatics of macromolecular complexes
• Jonathan Silverberg*, MD, PhD, MPH (DGP) Dermatoepidemiology
• Matthew Schipma, PhD, Technical Director NGS Core Facility
• Justin Starren*, MD, PhD (DGP) Health care computing
• Ji-Ping Wang, PhD Bioinformatics and genomics
• Deborah Winter*, PhD (DGP) Computational immunology

5. Genetics of Complex disease.

• Grant Barish*, MD (DGP) BCL6 in gluconeogenesis, diet-induced obesity, and insulin resistance
• Han-Xiang Deng, MD, PhD
• M Geoffrey Hayes*, PhD (DGP) Evolutionary population genetics and genetic epidemiology
• Peter Kopp*, MD (DGP) Molecular genetics of thyroid and other endocrine disorders
• William Lowe*, MD (DGP) IGF-1 Gene Expression and Genetics of Diabetes
• Elizabeth McNally*, MD, PhD (DGP)  Genes and Modifiers for Heart and Muscle Disease
• Teepu Siddique*, MD (DGP) Molecular basis of neurodegeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Margrit Urbanek*, PhD (DGP) Susceptibility genes for complex diseases
• Lawrence Jennings, MD, PhD Novel molecular assays
• Suzanne O’Neill, MS, PhD, CGC Quantitative genetics
• Maureen Smith, MS, CGC Genome-wide Studies
• Cathy Wicklund, MS, CGC Genetic Counseling
• Laurie Zoloth, PhD Bioethics

Driskill Graduate Program (DGP) 303 East Chicago Avenue Morton 1-670 Chicago, IL 60611-3008 Phone: 312- 503-1889 Fax: 312-908-5253 Website URL: DGP Email: [email protected]

Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences (IBiS) 2205 Tech Drive Hogan 2-100 Evanston, IL 60208 Phone: 847-491-4301 Fax: 847-467-1380 Website URL: IBiS Email: [email protected]

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Department of Biomedical Engineering

Biomolecular/Genetic Engineering

Major advances in molecular biology, biochemistry and DNA technologies have made it possible to analyze, design, manipulate and control the fundamental molecular processes and genetic blueprints of life. This convergence of molecular biology with engineering promises to address some of the most pressing problems of the 21st century, including precision medicine and environmental sustainability.

The Biomolecular, Genetic and Cellular Engineering research thrust aims to focus UCI’s multidisciplinary strength in molecular life sciences toward designing and engineering bio-based solutions for society’s needs, and training the next generation of scientists and leaders.

Participating Faculty

• Michelle Digman
• Fangyuan Ding
• Timothy Downing

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PhD in Genetics

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Modern genetics research seeks to provide a systems-level understanding of biology by relating genome sequence to function and phenotype. The research in the Department of Genetics covers a wide spectrum of biological problems, united by the application of genetics tools and approaches. Research themes range from understanding basic mechanisms in cell biology relating to the mechanics of division, migration and communication, through the large-scale analysis of genome regulation and epigenetic control, to aspects of population biology focused on issues of ecological, evolutionary and human health significance.

Genetics has evolved beyond its traditional boundaries to become a fundamental part of biology and medicine. The Department reflects this pervasiveness with research interests encompassing several high-impact themes, including functional genomics and systems biology, developmental genetics, epigenetic inheritance, evolution and population genetics, microbial genetics, and cell biology.

The Department of Genetics hosts between 50 and 65 postgraduate students across 25 research groups, researching a wide range of biological problems, from population genetics and ecology to the detailed analysis of genome sequence. The Department is based in a historic building on the Downing Site but has research groups located in the Gurdon Institute and Sainsbury Labs as well as an impressive range of local, national and international collaborations.

It is mandatory for applicants to contact prospective supervisors to discuss potential projects before making a formal application; applicants who have not done this may not receive full consideration. Prospective students must then indicate their potential supervisor(s) on their application form. Supervisors and their research areas are listed on the Department of Genetics website on the  Research Groups  and  Group Leaders pages .

Most candidates taking this option start in October, to take advantage of Departmental and University induction programmes, but admission in January or April is also possible.

Please note: part-time study may not always be viable and will be considered on a case-by-case basis, so please discuss this option with your proposed supervisor before making an application for this mode of study. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their own research;
• demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies;
• demonstrated self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research;
• independence in designing and conducting a substantial body of original research, and preparing that data in a format suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of genetics, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024, easter 2025, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

Similar Courses

• Biological Sciences at the Department of Veterinary Medicine PhD
• Network of Life (Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarship Programme) PhD
• Veterinary Science MPhil
• Veterinary Medicine MV
• Clinical Biochemistry PhD

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The majority of graduate programs are NOT impacted by recent government announcements about tuition increases. PhD students from the rest of Canada will continue to pay Quebec fees. International PhD fees will see the same 3% increase as Quebec fees.

Human Genetics (PhD)

Program description.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Human Genetics offered by the Department of Human Genetics in the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences is a research-intensive program that emphasizes engaging and challenging learning opportunities. The program's objective is to equip students with skills in literature synthesis, critical thinking, and academic writing to pursue professional opportunities in academia or industry.

Keywords: Genomics, epigenetics, bioinformatics, computational biology, precision medicine, genetic engineering, immunology, evolution, epidemiology, embryology, developmental, biochemical, behavioural, modeling human diseases, therapies, cancer, neurogenetics, health policy, health inequalities, law, bioethics.

Unique Program Features

• Departmental research interests include cancer genetics, cytogenetics, reproductive biology, neurogenetics, genomic and genetic basis of human diseases;
• Admitted students are guaranteed financial support;
• Many Faculty members in the Department are located in McGill affiliated teaching hospitals, reflecting the medically learned knowledge at the core of human genetic studies;
• Department Faculty members typically hold cross-appointments in various departments at McGill which enables numerous opportunities for interdisciplinary research and collaboration. The McGill departments within the Faculties of Science and Medicine include Biochemistry, Biology, Cardiology, Medicine, Microbiology, Immunology, Neurology, Pathology, Pediatrics, Pharmacology, and Psychiatry;
• The Department conducts research on all sites of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, the McGill Life Sciences Complex, the McGill University & Genome Quebec Innovation Centre, the Biomedical Ethics Unit, and the Centre for Genomics and Policy.

University-Level Admission Requirements

• An eligible Bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA out of a possible 4.0 GPA
• English-language proficiency

Each program has specific admission requirements including required application documents. Please visit the program website for more details.

Visit our Educational credentials and grade equivalencies and English language proficiency webpages for additional information.

Program Website

PhD in Human Genetics website

Department Contact

Graduate Program dept.humangenetics [at] mcgill.ca (subject: PhD%20in%20Human%20Genetics) (email)

Available Intakes

Application deadlines.

Note : Application deadlines are subject to change without notice. Please check the application portal for the most up-to-date information.

Application Resources

• Application Steps webpage
• Submit Your Application webpage
• Connecting with a supervisor webpage
• Graduate Funding webpage

Application Workshops

Consult our full list of our virtual application-focused workshops on the Events webpage .

Department and University Information

Graduate and postdoctoral studies.

Best Global Universities for Engineering in Russia

These are the top universities in Russia for engineering, based on their reputation and research in the field. Read the methodology »

To unlock more data and access tools to help you get into your dream school, sign up for the  U.S. News College Compass !

Here are the best global universities for engineering in Russia

Itmo university, tomsk state university, tomsk polytechnic university, lomonosov moscow state university, novosibirsk state university, saint petersburg state university, peter the great st. petersburg polytechnic university, moscow institute of physics & technology, national research nuclear university mephi (moscow engineering physics institute).

See the full rankings

• Clear Filters
• # 307 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 696 in Best Global Universities  (tie)
• # 364 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 587 in Best Global Universities  (tie)
• # 396 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 879 in Best Global Universities  (tie)
• # 632 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
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• # 915 in Best Universities for Engineering  (tie)
• # 483 in Best Global Universities  (tie)

• OU Homepage
• The University of Oklahoma

Nine Sooners Receive NSF Graduate Research Fellowships

NORMAN, OKLA. – Five current students at the University of Oklahoma, four from the Gallogly College of Engineering and one from the Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy, as well as four OU alumni, have been named 2024 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellows. This five-year fellowship awards students with a three-year annual stipend, allowance for tuition and fees and access to opportunities for NSF professional development.

Brigid Bernier earned an undergraduate degree in geosciences from the University of Connecticut and is currently pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Oklahoma.

Isaiah Gilley earned undergraduate degrees in chemistry and mathematics from the University of Oklahoma and is currently pursuing a graduate degree at Northwestern University.

Derek Madden will earn an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Oklahoma.

Maria Muñoz earned an undergraduate degree in ecology from the University of Oklahoma and is pursuing a graduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Daniel Pfaff earned an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Oklahoma and is pursuing a graduate degree from the University of California-Santa Cruz.

Alexander Pham earned an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from the University of Oklahoma.

Sayre Tillery will earn an undergraduate degree in bioengineering and biomedical engineering from the University of Oklahoma in May 2024.

Tristan Timog will earn an undergraduate degree in bioengineering and biomedical engineering from the University of Oklahoma in May 2024.

Hamilton Young will earn an undergraduate degree in bioengineering and biomedical engineering from the University of Oklahoma in May 2024.

The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program is the country’s oldest fellowship program that directly supports graduate students in various STEM fields. Since 1952, NSF has funded over 70,000 Graduate Research Fellowships out of more than 500,000 applicants. Currently, 42 Fellows have gone on to become Nobel laureates, and more than 450 have become members of the National Academy of Sciences.

About the University of Oklahoma

Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. OU was named the state’s highest-ranking university in  U.S. News & World Report’s  most recent Best Colleges list .  For more information about the university, visit  ou.edu .

Recent News

No more pain: study evaluates no-pain exercise to help peripheral artery disease patients.

A researcher with the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine recently received funding from the National Institutes of Health National Institute on Aging — more than $2.4 million over five years — to study the efficacy of a new painless exercise protocol to treat the symptoms of PAD and ultimately increase patients overall physical activity. The research effort is led by Andrew Gardner, Ph.D., a professor in the cardiovascular section of the OU College of Medicine.

Two OU Researchers Named Fellows of Esteemed Science Association

Two researchers from the University of Oklahoma have been named Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Bonnie Pitblado, Ph.D., and Jeffrey Kelly, Ph.D., are part of the 2023 class of fellows to the world’s largest scientific society.

OU Announces Campus Award Recipients for Spring 2024

More than 100 University of Oklahoma students have been selected as Spring 2024 Campus Awards recipients. The students were acknowledged for their exceptional achievements in scholarship, honors, awards, leadership and service in and outside the classroom. Recipients were honored by fellow students, parents, family, special guests, the Board of Regents and OU President Joseph Harroz Jr.

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30 Best universities for Mechanical Engineering in Moscow, Russia

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in Moscow ranked based on their research performance in Mechanical Engineering. A graph of 269K citations received by 45.8K academic papers made by 30 universities in Moscow was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Moscow State University

For Mechanical Engineering

2. Bauman Moscow State Technical University

3. National Research University Higher School of Economics

4. Moscow Aviation Institute

5. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

6. National Research Nuclear University MEPI

7. National University of Science and Technology "MISIS"

8. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology

9. Moscow State Technological University "Stankin"

10. RUDN University

11. Moscow Polytech

12. Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

13. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

14. Moscow Medical Academy

15. Russian State University of Oil and Gas

16. mendeleev university of chemical technology of russia.

17. Russian National Research Medical University

18. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

19. National Research University of Electronic Technology

20. Moscow State Pedagogical University

21. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

22. State University of Management

23. Moscow State Institute of International Relations

24. Russian State Geological Prospecting University

25. russian state agricultural university.

26. New Economic School

27. Moscow State Technical University of Civil Aviation

28. Russian State University for the Humanities

29. Russian State Social University

30. Moscow State Linguistic University

Universities for Mechanical Engineering near Moscow

Engineering subfields in moscow.