university of toronto phd biotechnology

Molecular Microbiology and Infectious Disease

MoGen's research in molecular microbiology and infectious disease tackles fundamental questions as to the molecular mechanisms that bacteria, fungi, and viruses employ to achieve their biotic process.

Read our Field Spotlight for more information on faculty in this area!

MoGen's research in Molecular Microbiology and Infectious Disease tackles fundamental questions about the molecular mechanisms that bacteria, fungi, and viruses employ to achieve their biotic prowess. We aim to understand how pathogens manipulate the host to replicate and cause disease and how the host recognizes, captures, and destroys invading pathogens. We also study basic cellular processes such as genome replication, regulation of gene expression, and responses to stress and environmental cues. This understanding will be critical in enabling us to address global challenges, including developing new strategies to cripple HIV, prevent and treat tuberculosis, halt the spread of sexually transmitted disease, and conquer Legionnaire’s Disease, invasive fungal infections, and microbial drug resistance.

Research in microbiology and infectious disease has been undergoing a renaissance over the past decade. Microbes exist in overwhelming numbers and unparalleled diversity, and we now appreciate their profound impact on the planet and human health and disease. The human body contains over ten times more microbial cells than human cells, with members of the human microbiome implicated in many conditions, including obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and cancer. Some microbes are pathogens and can cause life-threatening infectious diseases. These pathogens pose one of the greatest threats to human health worldwide, at least partly because they rapidly evolve resistance to the drugs we use to kill them. We are now in jeopardy of entering a post-antibiotic era, in which common infections that were once treatable will become lethal due to widespread multi-drug resistance. 

Our diverse labs form an innovative, interdisciplinary, and collaborative community at the forefront of science in Canada and internationally. We integrate various disciplines such as biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, and evolutionary biology, using state-of-the-art genomic and proteomic approaches coupled with advanced imaging technologies. We benefit significantly from extensive collaborative interactions with the five other MoGen research fields, including Cellular and Molecular Structure and Function, Computational and Systems Biology, Functional Genomics and Proteomics, Genetic Models of Development and Disease, and Molecular Medicine and Human Genetics.

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School of Graduate Studies

Program overview.

The Department of Immunology offers graduate programs leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in a wide range of immunological disciplines. These disciplines include molecular mechanisms of lymphocyte development and selection, T-cell and B-cell receptors, cell interactions, growth factor receptors, cytokine networks, antigen processing and presentation, signal transduction in lymphocytes, V(D)J recombination, anergy, apoptosis, transgenic and knock-out models, immuno-targe​ting and vaccine design, autoimmunity, AIDS, diabetes, and transplantation.​

The department provides a common forum for investigators in many areas of U of T and an interdisciplinary research experience in immunology. Members and students in the department are located at the Medical Sciences Building, at the Ontario Cancer Institute, and at the Research Institutes of Mt. Sinai Hospital, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, The Hospital for Sick Children, and Sunnybrook Hospital.​

The purpose of the MSc in the field of Applied Immunology is to provide advanced training in designing, implementing, and evaluating immunological techniques that measure immune responses. To qualify for the degree, each student must complete specified coursework and a Major Research Project. Performed in a host laboratory, the Major Research Project will comprise original research that will be summarized in a proposal document, a report document,​ and an oral presentation.

Students may also be interested in the combined degree program in Medicine, Doctor of / Doctor of Philosophy (MD/PhD) .​

Quick Facts

Master of science, program description.

The MSc program is offered in two fields:

The non-thesis Applied Immunology field provides advanced training in designing, implementing, and evaluating immunological techniques that measure immune responses.

The thesis-based Fundamental Immunology field provides advanced training in an area of specialization, with a particular emphasis on the acquisition of experience in the strategies and experimental methods of modern, original, scientific research.

Students in the Applied Immunology field (including the advanced-standing option) are not eligible to participate in collaborative specializations.

Field: Applied Immunology

Minimum admission requirements.

Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Immunology's additional admission requirements stated below.

An appropriate BSc, or its equivalent, normally with at least a B+ average and a strong background in molecular and cellular biology. Applicants lacking adequate training in immunology or biological or natural sciences may be advised to do extra coursework necessary for their research.

Applicants whose primary language is not English and who graduated from a university where the language of instruction and examination was not English must demonstrate proficiency in English. See General Regulations section 4.3 for requirements. Applicants educated outside Canada are required to provide Graduate Record Examination (GRE) (general) scores with their application.

Before starting the program, applicants may be required to complete SCS 3128 (at the discretion of the Department of Immunology).

Please note that the Applied Immunology field is unable to accept international students at this time.

Program Requirements

Students must complete any courses conditional of acceptance.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 7.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

2.0 FCEs: IMM1450Y, IMM1550Y

1.0 FCE selected from IMM1428H, IMM1429H, IMM1430H, IMM1431H

0.5 FCE: IMM1436H

1.0 FCE: IMM1050H 0 , IMM1075H 0

1.0 FCE: IMM1650Y

0.5 FCE: IMM1651H

1.0 FCE selected from the elective course list below.

Students are required to participate full-time until the program requirements of research and coursework have been completed.

Required Courses

0 Course that may continue over a program. Credit is given when the course is completed.

Elective Courses

Students may take any graduate-level course available to fulfil the elective portion of their degree requirements from Immunology, Biochemistry , Biomedical Engineering , Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology , Medical Biophysics , Medical Science , Molecular Genetics , Physiology , and Pharmacology and Toxicology .

Students may take a course offered outside the above listed departments towards the elective portion of their degree requirements, but will require the approval of the Associate Chair, Graduate Studies.

Program Length

6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: (F/W/S/F/W/S)

3 years full-time

Field: Applied Immunology (Advanced-Standing Option)

Applicants with an Immunology specialist or major undergraduate degree from the University of Toronto, may be eligible for advanced standing.

An appropriate BSc from the University of Toronto (including those with an Immunology specialist or major undergraduate degree), normally with at least a B+ average and a strong background in molecular and cellular biology. Applicants lacking adequate training in immunology or biological or natural sciences may be advised to do extra coursework necessary for their research.

Applicants must have completed the following University of Toronto undergraduate course or its equivalent: IMM450H1.

Applicants must have completed the following University of Toronto undergraduate courses: two of IMM428H1, IMM429H1, IMM430H1, IMM431H1, MIJ485H1.

Applicants must already have a graduate research supervisor who is a graduate faculty member in the Department of Immunology.

Please note that the Applied Immunology field (advanced-standing option) is unable to accept international students at this time.

Coursework. Successful completion of 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

1.0 FCE: IMM1550Y, completed in the first Summer session

2.0 FCEs: IMM1050H 0 , IMM1075H 0 , IMM1436H, IMM1651H

0 Course that may continue over a program. Credit is given when course is completed.

4 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: S/F/W/S)

Field: Fundamental Immunology

An appropriate BSc, or its equivalent, normally with at least a B+ average and a strong background in molecular and cellular biology. Applicants lacking adequate training in biological or natural sciences may be advised to do extra coursework necessary for their research.

Coursework. Successful completion of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) :

IMM1000Y Recent Advances in Immunology (1.0 FCE)

IMM1200H + Scientific Skills for Immunologists (0.5 FCE)

IMM1025H 0 Student Seminar Series (I) (Credit/No Credit; 0.5 FCE)

IMM1050H 0 Easton Seminar Series (I) (Credit/No Credit; 0.5 FCE)

IMM1075H 0 Special Topics in Immunology (I) (Credit/No Credit; 0.5 FCE).

A satisfactory thesis embodying the student’s research.

Upon of completion of the thesis, pass an oral examination .

6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: F/W/S/F/W/S)

+ Extended course. For academic reasons, coursework is extended into session following academic session in which course is offered.

Students may take any graduate-level course available to fulfil the elective portion of their degree requirements from Immunology * , Biochemistry , Biomedical Engineering , Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology , Medical Biophysics , Medical Science , Molecular Genetics , Physiology , and Pharmacology and Toxicology .

* Note: students in the MSc field in Fundamental Immunology cannot use IMM1428H, IMM1429H, IMM1430H, IMM1431H, IMM1436H, IMM1450Y, IMM1550H, IMM1650Y, or IMM1651H towards their degree requirements.

Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD degree is an advanced research degree intended to reflect a level of training consistent with the ability of the candidate to function as an independent research scientist.

Applicants may enter the PhD program via one of three routes: 1) following completion of an MSc degree; 2) transfer from the MSc in Immunology program, Fundamental Immunology field; or 3) direct entry following completion of a BSc degree.

PhD Program

Applicants who have completed an MSc degree must have at least a B+ average in that degree.

Applicants may be accepted for direct entry with a BSc degree, with at least an A– average in the final two years.

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 4.5 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

IMM1200H + Scientific Skills for Immunologists (0.5 FCE); in the event the student has taken this course to complete the MSc in Immunology, Fundamental Immunology field, a substitute course will be taken with approval of the Graduate Coordinator

IMM2000H PhD Proposal in Immunology (0.5 FCE)

IMM2025H 0 Student Seminar Series (II) (Credit/No Credit; 0.5 FCE)

IMM2050H 0 Easton Seminar Series (II) (Credit/No Credit; 0.5 FCE)

IMM2075H 0 Special Topics in Immunology (II) (Credit/No Credit; 0.5 FCE)

1.0 elective FCE at the graduate level from either Immunology or outside the department as relevant to their thesis topic (examples are provided in the elective course list).

Students must complete a qualifying exam (DEX5555Y, Credit/No Credit; 0.0 FCE) within 24 months of starting the PhD program, Fundamental Immunology field.

Candidates must submit a thesis and defend it at a Doctoral Final Oral Examination conducted by the School of Graduate Studies.

0 Course that may continue over a program. The course is graded or credit is given when completed.

* Note: students in the PhD field in Fundamental Immunology cannot use IMM1428H, IMM1429H, IMM1430H, IMM1431H, IMM1436H, IMM1450Y, IMM1550H, IMM1650Y, or IMM1651H towards their degree requirements.

PhD Program (Transfer)

Transfer requirements.

Transfer applicants must be enrolled in the MSc Immunology program, Fundamental Immunology field.

Applicants must pass a reclassification (transfer) exam (DEX5555Y, Credit/No Credit; 0.0 FCE) within 24 months of initial registration in the MSc Immunology program, Fundamental Immunology field.

Successful completion of IMM1200H + and IMM1000Y with at least a B+ overall average, prior to taking the reclassification exam (DEX5555Y).

Completion of, or concurrent registration in, IMM1025H 0 , IMM1050H 0 , and IMM1075H 0 .

Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 6.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) as follows:

IMM1075H 0 Special Topics in Immunology I (Credit/No Credit; 0.5 FCE)

Students must successfully complete the reclassification transfer exam (DEX5555Y, Credit/No Credit; 0.0 FCE) within 24 months of starting the MSc Immunology program, Fundamental Immunology field.

* Note: students in the PhD field in Fundamental Immunology cannot use IMM1428H, IMM1429H, IMM1430H, IMM1431H, IMM1436H, IMM1450Y, IMM1550H, IMM1650Y, IMM1651H towards their degree requirements.

PhD Program (Direct-Entry)

Direct entry is available for highly qualified BSc graduates who completed the undergraduate Immunology specialist program or an appropriate undergraduate program in the life sciences from a recognized university, with a minimum A– average in the final two years and relevant research experience.

Applicants are selected by the departmental admissions committee on the basis of academic and research excellence. Admission to the program is finalized when a graduate faculty member agrees to supervise the student's research and guarantees a full stipend for the student.

“The array of knowledge and expertise available to the graduate student is staggering.”

Genetics, Genomics and Proteomics 

From the identification of genetic mutations underlying disease, to the development of prognostic technologies that impact health care delivery, this area of research is critical to the pursuit of personalized and translational medicine.

Our researchers uncover how relationships between genes and/or proteins are set and integrated within large molecular networks. These networks ultimately determine the fate of cells and organisms.

Our laboratories encompass a wide array of biological and clinical settings related to the understanding of diverse health and disease states. 

These laboratories investigate processes such as:

• molecular evolution
• chromatin structure and function
• epigenetics
• structural analysis of nucleic acids and proteins
• repetitive DNA
• genome stability
• copy number variation

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PhD in Fundamental Immunology

The PhD degree is an advanced research degree intended to reflect a level of training consistent with the ability of the candidate to function as an independent research scientist. This involves successful completion of course work reflecting a knowledge of modern immunology, as well as a demonstrated ability to carry out research of publishable quality. To qualify for the degree each candidate must successfully achieve candidacy, submit a satisfactory thesis based on his/her original research, and successfully defend it in a Final Oral Examination. The PhD thesis should contain a body of original research roughly corresponding in quantity to that which would be appropriate for two or three publications in a recognized refereed journal. Normally, at least one of these manuscripts should have been accepted for publication at the time of the exam. 

There are 2 routes to entering the PhD program. 

• Direct entry from the BSc Students with outstanding undergraduate records are encouraged to apply to the PhD program directly. Students entering via this route undergo a qualifying exam during the 2nd year of their program. Students admitted to the direct-entry PhD may choose to graduate with an MSc after two years of study if extenuating circumstances prevent them from continuing with the PhD. This change requires approval from the Supervisor, the Department, and the School of Graduate Studies.  
• Entry after completion of an M.Sc. degree Students who have completed or are in the process of completing an MSc degree from another department/University are encouraged apply to the PhD program. All students entering the PhD program with an MSc degree must undergo a qualifying exam during the 2nd year of their program. 

Students doing a thesis-based PhD in Fundamental Immunology will receive a guaranteed stipend .

In our Department, students typically spend about 5 years in the PhD degree program.

Course Requirements

For students who started their program in september 2021 or later :.

The Department requires students to complete

• IMM1000Y Recent Advances in Immunology
• IMM1025/2025H Student Seminar Series I / II*
• IMM1050/2050H Easton Seminar Series I / II*
• IMM1075/2075H Special Topics in Immunology I / II*
• IMM1200H Scientific Skills for Immunologists
• IMM2000H PhD Proposal in Immunology
• 1.0 FCE electives, approved by the Associate Chair, Graduate Studies
• Successfully pass the Qualifying Exam (DEX5555Y)

*Continuous courses taken throughout the student's PhD program until completed.

For students who started their program in September 2020 :

• Successfully pass the Qualifying Exam (DEX5555Y)

For students who started their program before September 2020 :

• 0.5 FCE elective, approved by the Associate Chair, Graduate Studies
• Successfully pass the Qualifying Exam

More information on required and elective courses

Biotechnology

About the Program

Biotechnology in modern society is the "application of scientific and technical advances in life science to develop commercial products”. This program combines biological sciences (genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology) with other science disciplines (chemistry, engineering, information technology, robotics, etc.).

Honours Bachelor of Science

After completing your first year, you'll be asked to confirm what program(s) you wish to study – your Programs of Study. They can be integrated in unique ways to obtain your U of T degree, but must be one of the following three combinations: one Specialist; or two Majors; or one Major and two Minors. You don't need to worry about that now, but if you'd like to learn more about this process, watch our handy video (7 min).

Admission Requirements

You apply to an admission category , which is a collection of similar programs. Once you've accepted an offer of admission to our campus, we go into greater detail about specific program and course selection options.

At the end of your first year, you will choose your program(s) , which means that your first year is an excellent opportunity to explore the full breadth of offerings.

Regardless of what you study, remember that you will receive a prestigious University of Toronto degree when you graduate that tells everyone that you are ranked among the best in the world!

The admission average is calculated with English (ENG4U) plus the next best five Grade 12 U or M courses. Meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee you admission to the University. Admission is subject to space availability and competition.

The content in this section is based on requirements in the Ontario curriculum.

Find requirements to other common curricula:

• Canadian High School
• International Baccalaureate
• U.S.-Patterned Education
• British-Patterned Education
• French Baccalaureate
• Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE)

Please visit the Admissions section of our site for full requirements.

Discover Your Potential

In recent decades there have been some big advances in developing new cancer medicines, such as Herceptin, the targeted drug to treat women diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer. Despite these successes, cancer remains the second leading cause of death after heart disease and nearly 90 per cent of all cancer drugs entering clinical trial testing fail.

Pandemic. Famine. Solar storms and time travel. Those aren’t the elements of a new Netflix series, but rather an innovative orientation exercise designed to help incoming students get acquainted at U of T Mississauga.

What role could data play in containing future pandemics? U of T Mississauga biotechnology expert Jayson Parker looks ahead, with predictions about how everyday technology could give us a wider and more realistic picture of global health.

Student Experience

Courses you would love.

This course takes students from hypothesis testing to the application of testing means, chi-square tests, regression analysis and analysis of variance in Biology.

This course reviews a full range of discoveries from medical biotechnology, which includes drugs, smart phone apps, and medical devices.

Stereochemistry and conformational analysis; mechanisms of important types of organic reaction.

• Erindale Biology Society
• UTM Science Careers Committee
• UTM Stem Fellowship - Student Chapter
• Women in Science and Computing

Planning Ahead

Whether you want to land your dream job, conduct groundbreaking research, or start your own business, we can get you there. Here are resources to help you explore your career options.

Career Options

Created by our Career Centre, the Careers by Major database identifies some potential career fields, how to gain related skills and experience, and useful resources and job samples. But always remember, your program of study doesn't have to determine your career!

Program Plans

Program Plans are quick and accessible overviews of the many academic and co-curricular opportunities available to help you get the most out of your UTM experience.

The Career Centre offers dozens of tip sheets with helpful information about topics related to searching for work, planning your career, and pursuing further education.

View to the U: An eye on UTM research

View to the U is a podcast that features U of T Mississauga faculty members from a range of disciplines who will illuminate some of the inner-workings of the science labs and enlighten the social sciences and humanities hubs at UTM.

Jodie Jenkinson: A Virtual Tour of Biomedical Communications Research

On this edition of the podcast, Professor Jodie Jenkinson, takes us on a virtual tour of her work in the Biomedical Communications department, examining her current research program, how she ended up in this area after starting out her career as an animator, what kinds of developments she’s seen over her time at UTM, and what she sees on the horizon for her field.

Learn More About this Program

Other Programs to Consider

Molecular Biology

Molecular Biology is an interdisciplinary science that draws its major themes from biochemistry, cell biology, and genetics. Its emphasis is on the structure, chemistry, and functions of nucleic acids and focuses on the biochemical basis of cellular genetics.

Biomedical Communications

Our program in Biomedical Communications explores the visualization of bioscience knowledge for diverse audiences. The minor in Biomedical Communications is for students interested in interdisciplinary studies in health, science and visual communication.

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Core Faculty

Maydianne Andrade

Ina Anreiter

Aarthi Ashok

Rudy Boonstra

Jason Brown

Shelley Brunt

Marc Cadotte

Guillaume Filion

Mark J. Fitzpatrick

Kathlyn Gan

Sonia Gazzarrini

Eliana Gonzales-Vigil

Eyal Gruntman

Christina Guzzo

Rene E. Harrison

Clare Hasenkampf

Minoru Koyama

Nathan Lovejoy

Nicholas Mandrak

Andrew Mason

Patrick McGowan

Scott MacIvor

Péter Molnár

Joanne Nash

Cosima Porteus

Satyaki Rajavasireddy

Stephen G. Reid

Ivana Stehlik

Rachel Sturge

Mauricio Terebiznik

Tod R. Thiele

Bebhinn Treanor

Kenneth Welch

Rongmin Zhao

Cross appointed faculty.

Maithe Arruda-Carvalho

Ito Rutsuko

Emeriti faculty, ron dengler, michael filosa, czesia nalewajko, julie silver, greg c. vanlerberghe, dudley williams, john youson.

McFarlane Lab

Plant cell biology @ university of toronto.

Welcome to the McFarlane Lab!  We study plant cell biology in the Department of Cell and Systems Biology at the University of Toronto , where we:

ask and answer questions about plant growth and development

foster the next generation of Canadian-trained scientists

spark public interest in plant biology and biotechnology

Latest news from the mcfarlane lab.

• Heather visiting RUB in Germany May 9, 2023
• Welcome new students! May 8, 2023
• Yu passes his PhD proposal exam May 1, 2023
• Eskandar wins summer research awards April 19, 2023
• CSB Undergraduate Research Day March 31, 2023
• New paper in Journal of Experimental Botany March 24, 2023
• Heather visiting Queen’s U January 24, 2023
• Editorial on values-driven lab leadership published in JXB December 19, 2022
• Carlo passes his PhD proposal exam December 14, 2022
• Jenny wins a prize for her CSPB talk! December 3, 2022

Latest Tweets from Heather

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U of T welcomes federal budget's investments in research and innovation

 (photo by Matthew Dochstader/Paradox Images)

Published: April 16, 2024

By Rahul Kalvapalle

The University of Toronto is welcoming measures in Tuesday’s federal budget that boost research programs and support a new generation of talent across Canada, strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem and knowledge economy.

The spring 2024 budget , announced by  Chrystia Freeland , Canada’s deputy prime minister and finance minister, allocates more than $3 billion in investments in Canada’s research ecosystem over the next five years. 

This includes increases to the tri-council funding agency budgets, additional support for master’s and PhD students and post-doctoral fellows, and more money for major research infrastructure projects – a clear recognition that universities are drivers of economic growth and can find solutions to the challenges facing Canada and the world. 

“Today’s budget is a very significant and welcome recognition of the critical role the research ecosystem plays in driving Canada’s productivity and prosperity,” said U of T President  Meric Gertler .

“It builds on this government’s earlier investments in research and innovation, and helps secure Canada’s global competitiveness for future generations.”

The budget’s key elements for the post-secondary sector include an increase of 30 per cent, across five years, in Canada’s three research funding agencies: the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).

The budget also invests $825 million in support of master’s and PhD students and post-doctoral fellows, boosting the value of these scholarships and fellowships significantly, and adding a further 1,720 students or fellows each year. 

“In the knowledge economy, the global market for ... ideas is highly competitive and we need to make sure talented people have the right incentives to do their groundbreaking research here in Canada,” the budget document states.

In addition, the budget lays out a plan for the creation of an advisory Council on Science and Innovation, which will be tasked with setting priorities and boosting the impact of federal investments in science and innovation. And it proposes the creation of a new capstone research funding organization to optimize the impact of the federally funded research councils.

The budget also earmarks $2.4 billion,  previously announced , to consolidate Canada’s competitive edge in AI – a field where U of T researchers are playing a leading role.

The measures come as post-secondary institutions in Ontario grapple with a challenging financial environment  and follows growing calls across Canada for reinvestment in research and innovation.

U of T is a member of the Coalition for Canadian Research , which has urged the federal government to increase support for research to enhance Canada’s competitiveness as a destination for top talent and accelerate Canadian researchers’ efforts in tackling pressing national and global challenges.

“Canada has many strengths in this new strategic race, including unparalleled access to talent, an increasingly successful commercialization pipeline from researchers to business, and a federal government focused on developing the industries of tomorrow,”  Leah Cowen , U of T’s vice-president, research and innovation, and strategic initiatives, noted in a May 2023 column for The Hill Times . 

In October, the coalition – whose members include post-secondary institutions as well as research hospitals, life sciences companies, charities, students and early-career researchers – released  an open letter  calling for “ambitious reinvestment” to support Canada’s research and innovation ecosystem amid an increasingly competitive global landscape and rising societal and economic challenges.

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Apr 16, 2024

Huck trainees recognized at graduate school awards

Four huck graduate students were recognized with distinctions at the recent 2023-24 graduate student awards, hosted by the graduate school at penn state..

Grace Buddle , Allison Carothers , Ana Leon-Apodaca , and Sarah Richards were lauded for their excellence in teaching and research.

Buddle, who is pursuing a Masters degree in Biotechnology , was awarded the 2023-24 Professional Master’s Excellence Award. As part of the capstone requirement for the Biotechnology master's program, Buddle completed a co-op centered around neurodegenerative pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease.

“My culminating project was the development of a method for high-resolution three-dimensional whole-brain analysis of Alzheimer’s pathology in mouse models,” said Buddle. “The development of this methodology will advance our understanding of the pathology and progression of Alzheimer’s, allowing for the development of novel methods for studying, diagnosing, and treating neurodegenerative diseases. My masters program has allowed me to discover and fall in love with new areas of research and really cemented my future as a scientist."

Buddle attributes a large portion of her success in the program to chair Natasha Tirko, whom she recognizes as an avid supporter and advocate of her studies throughout the past two years, alongside mentorship from her co-op managers, Sean Liu and Jonathan Sugam, whom she says were instrumental to her success in her co-op and capstone research.

Allison Carothers, doctoral student in Integrative and Biomedical Physiology , was recognized as a Harold F. Martin Graduate Assistant Outstanding Teaching Award recipient. Carothers, a fifth-year PhD candidate under Fransisco Diaz, studies the role of hyperandrogenism and zinc in the ovary, and is working towards establishing a better animal model to study polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). She has served as a teaching assistant in three different classes.

“We as instructors must do the work to empathize with the students we have been entrusted to help succeed,” Carothers said. “It is my responsibility to believe in my student's ability to achieve and [to] figure out what tools I need to provide them with to help foster that success, which can only come from striving to understand the diverse demographics in my classroom.”

Ana Leon-Apodaca, recipient of the Intercollege Graduate Student Outreach Achievement Award, is a doctoral student in Bioinformatics and Genomics . She's interested in understanding how demographic history, endogamy, and consanguinity affect the distribution of genetic variation, genome-wide homozygosity, and their relationship with complex traits. Leon-Apodaca co-leads DNA Day at PSU, a science outreach program at Penn State which aims to break down barriers between science and the public.

“The COVID-19 pandemic made me realize [the] disconnection between science and our society,” said Leon-Apodaca. “An essential part of being a scientist is communicating our research to a wider audience. As a Hispanic/Latina pursuing a STEM graduate degree in the United States, I’m even more cognizant of the language barriers faced by non-native English speakers within STEM fields.”

To celebrate National DNA Day, Leon-Apodaca and her co-lead place Penn State graduate students in high school classrooms across Pennsylvania to teach interactive lessons on DNA, new discoveries in genomic research, and potential careers in science.

“We have made it a priority to focus on schools where the majority of students come from underserved communities, as they often lack the infrastructure, educational resources, and exposure to the latest advances in technology," she said. “Beyond empowering the next generation, this science outreach program has reminded me of the transformative power of education and the importance of fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities for all members of our society.”

Sarah Richards, a doctoral student in Ecology with a dual title in International Agricultural and Development (INTAD), was given the Graduate Student International Research Award. Richards is conducting a research project in collaboration with the University of Costa Rica to investigate the impact of native cover crops and pesticide inputs on active soil microbes in a coffee production system.

“The INTAD program serves as a platform for me to translate my research findings into practical knowledge that is accessible to a broad base of farmers,” said Richards. “There are studies affirming that the value in bringing diverse minds together is that more can be achieved together, than the sum of what each individual can do alone,” she said. “This is what I sought in my graduate degree: a chance to exchange knowledge about sustainable agriculture, and to interact with diverse collaborators to expand the positive impact of our work together.”

Richards, who began her international agricultural research as a study abroad student while an undergrad, has since conducted research in Italy, Peru, and Uganda as well as her project in Costa Rica. “A universal lesson in all my international experiences has been that collaboration is a medium, but empowering people is the goal, and it has made me a better collaborator throughout my work in Costa Rica." To learn more about the master's and doctoral graduate options offered by the Huck, visit their web pages .

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Master of Biotechnology

Equip yourself with advanced scientific skills and the business, legal and regulatory understanding needed to translate discoveries from the laboratory to real life.

The Master of Biotechnology program is designed for scientists who want to update their technical skills in core areas such as molecular biology, protein technology or bioinformatics, or acquire research laboratory experience. The program also suits legal or business professionals with some scientific background who want to learn about the latest technological developments.

You'll select from more than 30 courses, allowing you to tailor your studies to suit your interests and career goals.

Specialise in Agricultural Biotechnology to discover how to meet environmental and food security challenges with gene editing, genomics, proteomics, recombinant DNA technology, bioinformatics and disease diagnostics. Alternatively, you can choose electives in molecular genetics, food microbiology, entrepreneurship and strategy, intellectual property, drug discovery and development, immunology and infectious diseases, and more.

You'll also have the opportunity to put your learning into practice through internships, placements and international study options that focus on research and development, commercialisation, marketing and the business of science.

With more than 400 biotechnology companies and some 600 medical device companies in Australia alone, graduates are highly sought after for roles in health, agriculture, diagnostics, the environment, forestry, law and commerce.

Program highlights

• Gain an internationally recognised qualification through UQ's Masters of Biotechnology Program, accredited by the US Council of Graduate Schools (Washington DC) as a Professional Science Master's program.
• Learn from entrepreneurial scientists who have successfully commercialised their scientific discoveries.
• Take advantage of a large suite of electives in science that underpin new biotechnologies.

1 in Australia for biotechnology

Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2023

10 in the world for biotechnology

Fields of study

Tailor your studies to suit your goals. This program offers these options:

• Animal Agricultural Biotechnology
• Medical Biotechnology
• Plant Agricultural Biotechnology
• Synthetic Biology and Industrial Biotechnology

See all fields of study

How you'll learn

Your learning experiences are designed to best suit the learning outcomes of the courses you choose.

• Work placements
• Research experience
• Laboratory work

What you'll study

At UQ, degrees are called 'programs' and subjects are called 'courses'.

See courses and program structure

Career possibilities

Postgraduate study can take you anywhere. Depending on which field you choose, here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

• Nanotechnology and biosensor application specialist
• Diagnostic test developer
• Business plan analyst
• Pharmaceutical producer
• University researcher
• Venture capital consultant
• Plant breeding, engineering, cropping or horticulture specialist
• Plant and animal geneticist
• Agricultural advisory board member

Graduate salary

Science and mathematics (postgraduate)

compared.edu.au

UQ’s excellent reputation as a leader in the field of biotechnology means it is well-connected to research institutes as well as biotech industries, so you can easily choose the preferred direction for your career.

I highly recommend that anyone aspiring to be a scientist studies at UQ, where you can learn all the essential skills, develop your critical thinking and establish valuable networks for your future career.

UQ offers so many opportunities to help students gain vital hands-on experience in their prospective industry outside of the classroom.

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Entry requirements

It's possible to complete this degree in 2 years, 1.5 years or 1 year depending on your qualifications and experience.

You can apply for any duration as long as you meet the entry requirements. You may also be eligible to apply for credit or exemptions to shorten your degree further. You'll graduate with the same qualification no matter how long you take to complete the degree.

2-year degree (32 units of study)

To be eligible to complete the degree in 2 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) full-time (only available as full-time study) , you'll need:

• a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline, or
• a graduate certificate or graduate diploma (or equivalent) in biotechnology, or
• to have successfully completed 3 years of study towards an approved qualification at an overseas partner institution, with a formal pathway to the Master of Biotechnology.

You must have a grade point average (GPA) of 5.0 on a 7-point scale in your previous qualification.

1.5-year degree (24 units of study)

If you have relevant prior learning or experience, you can reduce the number of courses you need to complete and graduate in less time.

To be eligible to complete the degree in 1.5 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) full-time (only available as full-time study) , you'll need:

• a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in biomedical science, biotechnology, science, bioinformatics, pharmacy or engineering.

1-year degree (16 units of study)

To be eligible to complete the degree in 1 year full-time (or part-time equivalent) full-time (only available as full-time study) , you'll need:

• a bachelor honours degree (or equivalent) in biomedical science, biotechnology, science, bioinformatics, pharmacy or engineering, including a minimum of one semester of full-time research (or equivalent).

GPA equivalent

Select where you studied and your qualification to see the GPA equivalent you need to be considered for this program.

Use the GPA equivalent as a guide. When you apply, we’ll calculate your GPA using the UQ grading scale. Any failing grades will be included. Entry requirements are subject to change.

Equivalent subjects

Related programs.

Depending on your previous qualifications and current goals, you might want to consider one of these related programs:

Master of Biotechnology Research Extensive

• Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology
• Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology

English language requirements

IELTS overall 6.5; reading 6; writing 6; speaking 6; listening 6. For other English Language Proficiency Tests and Scores approved for UQ

TOEFL iBT (including Paper Edition) - Overall 87, listening 19, reading 19, writing 21 and speaking 19.

PTE Academic - Overall Score of 64 and 60 in all sub bands.

BE - A minimum overall grade of 4 plus a minimum grade of C in all macro skills.

CES - Overall 176 and 169 in all sub bands.

OET is not accepted.

There are other ways to meet the English language requirements. For some programs, additional conditions apply.

Learn how to meet the English language requirements

Student visas

International students who are accepted into full-time study in the Master of Biotechnology are eligible to apply for an Australian student visa (subclass 500).

There are a number of requirements you must satisfy before a visa is granted, including the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.

Learn more about student visas

You’ll gain knowledge and skills in animal and molecular biology, genetic engineering, animal reproductive biotechnology, animal vaccines, disease diagnostic equipment, and more.

You’ll develop multidisciplinary research and business skills needed to translate discoveries from the laboratory to real life.

As a graduate you’ll find research and development opportunities with animal breeding consultancies and companies, livestock industries, private or government veterinary animal diagnostic facilities, livestock biotechnology companies, and animal health companies, among others.

This field of study will allow you to be at the forefront of modern medicine. Learn about advanced biopharmaceuticals, cell labelling and tracking, stem cells, immunology, diagnostic devices, gene therapy, artificial organs and other aspects of innovative health solutions.

You will develop multidisciplinary research and business skills needed to translate discoveries from the laboratory to real life.

In this field of study, you’ll gain knowledge and skills in plant molecular biology, genetic engineering, nucleic acid sequencing, disease diagnostics, and much more.

As a graduate you’ll find research and development opportunities with plant breeding and seed companies, government research labs and advisory bodies, agricultural diagnostic facilities, and more.

Learn how to create and re-engineer biological processes in living organisms. Develop cleaner sources of agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, designer materials and other innovative products across agriculture, health, energy production and environmental management.

Fees and Scholarships

Indicative annual fee.

Approximate yearly cost of tuition (16 units). Your fees will vary according to your selected courses and study load. Fees are reviewed each year and may increase.

Fee information for 2025 is not yet available. Fee information displayed is for 2024.

Learn more about postgraduate fees

Approximate yearly cost of full-time tuition (16 units). Your fees will vary according to your study load. Fees are reviewed each year and may increase.

AUD $53,760

Government assistance, financial aid.

As an international student, you might be eligible for financial aid – either from your home country, or from the Australian Government.

Learn more about financial aid

Domestic places in the Master of Biotechnology are Commonwealth Supported. This means the cost of your education is shared between you and the Australian Government.

Instead of tuition fees, Commonwealth Supported students pay what are called student contribution amounts.

HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme to assist eligible students with the cost of their student contribution amounts.

Learn more about HECS-HELP

Centrelink support

The Australian Government offers a number of income-support payments to eligible Australian university students.

Learn about Centrelink payments for students

Scholarships

You may be eligible for more than 100 scholarships, including:

Applying online

All international applications should be submitted to UQ. If you prefer, you can use an  approved UQ agent in your country .

The program code for the Master of Biotechnology is  5599 .

This program is available in multiple durations. You can apply for any duration as long as you meet the entry requirements.

When you apply, select your preferred duration. If you don't meet the requirements for your first preference, we'll automatically consider you for entry into a longer duration.

Find out more about applying for postgraduate coursework study

All domestic applications should be submitted to UQ.

The program code for the Master of Biotechnology is 5599 .

When you apply, select your preferred duration. You can also ask us to consider you for a longer duration if you don't meet the entry requirements for your first preference.

Important dates

The closing date for this program is:

• To commence study in semester 2 - May 31 of the year of commencement.
• To commence study in semester 1 - November 30 of the previous year.

To learn more about UQ dates, including semester start dates, view the Academic Calendar .

• To commence study in Semester 1 - January 31 of the year of commencement.
• To commence study in Semester 2 - June 30 of the year of commencement.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants

For support with applying – or if you have any questions about university life – get in touch with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit.

Contact the ATSIS Unit

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