Doctor of Philosophy in Genetics

The Graduate Program in Genetics was founded in 1980 as an inter-institutional program, combining the strengths in genetics at Stony Brook University, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and Brookhaven National Laboratory. With nearly 100 faculty, the Genetics Program encompasses expertise that ranges from fundamental studies on classical animal, plant, and microbial model systems to cutting-edge research on behavior, cancer, and other human diseases. Students enjoy superb opportunities for training that reflect the ever-expanding role of genetics in modern biological and biomedical research. For instance, alongside traditional mutagenic screens with model organisms, the rapidly growing discipline of genomics is producing an explosion of information, which in turn is revealing the genetic circuitry of and relationships among all forms of life. Data gathered by both traditional and new methodologies underscore the central importance of genetics in delineating the connection among genes, their biological functions, and the evolutionary processes that shape life on earth. Genetics also gives practical insights into how defects in genes contribute to disease, as well as how gene products and genetic engineering can be used to improve the human condition.

The Graduate Program in Genetics requires the following in addition to the minimum Graduate School admission requirements:

A. Superior undergraduate performance, which should include some formal training in genetics.

B. Three letters of recommendation, ideally from previous research mentors and faculty.

The program does not require, but prefers to see, evidence of research activity as an undergraduate. Whenever possible, prospective students are invited to visit for interviews with program faculty.

C. Acceptance by the Graduate Program in Genetics and by the Graduate School.

English Proficiency

IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no subsection recommended to be below 6; and TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90 for doctoral applicants and 80 for master’s applicants.