Doctor of Philosophy in Biology

Graduate students in biology come with very diverse undergraduate preparationmajors in physics, chemistry, mathematics, or psychology, as well as in biology and its various branches. The aims of the graduate program are to provide, for each student, individual depth of experience and competence in a particular chosen major specialty, perception of the nature and logic of biology as a whole, sufficient strength in basic science to allow continued self-education after formal training has been completed and thus to keep in the forefront of changing fields, and the motivation to serve his or her field productively through a long career.

In accordance with these aims, the graduate study program in biology includes the following parts: (a) the major program, which is to provide the student with early and intense original research experience in a self-selected subject of biology, supplemented with advanced course work and independent study in this subject, and (b) a program of course work designed to provide well-rounded and integrated training in biology and the appropriate basic sciences, which is adjusted to special interests and needs. An individual program will be recommended to each student in a meeting with the student's advisory committee (see below). The Division of Biology and Biological Engineering does not encourage applications from students who have pursued undergraduate study in biology at the Institute, because the broader perspective to be gained from graduate study in a different setting is considered to be essential for the full development of each student's potential. Exceptions to this policy may be considered by the faculty of the division if there are circumstances that indicate that it would be in the best interests of a student to pursue graduate study at the Institute.

Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree or the equivalent before beginning graduate study.

Applicants whose native language is not English and those who have had no formal instruction in English will be required to take a test to evaluate English proficiency. Please refer to "Required Tests" for a list of the GRE reporting requirements and the English proficiency exams currently accepted. The admissions committee may also consider research papers, publications and other original work.