Program Overview
The Ph.D. in Microbiology program provides a comprehensive curriculum in cutting-edge research areas, including host-microbe interactions, environmental microbiology, and biotechnology. Students conduct independent research projects and complete coursework tailored to their interests, preparing them for leadership roles in academia, industry, and government. The program also emphasizes teaching experience and professional development, equipping graduates for successful careers in research and teaching.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- The Ph.D. in Microbiology program offers a dynamic curriculum in a wide range of areas, combined with interdisciplinary research opportunities at the frontiers of microbiology, host-microbe interactions, and environmental microbiology.
- Graduates are equipped for leadership positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, academic and government research laboratories, and successful careers in teaching and research at the college and university level.
Outline:
- Content: Focuses on cutting-edge research areas in microbiology, including host-microbe interactions, parasitology, immunology, environmental microbiology, signal transduction pathways, molecular microbiology, genomics and bioinformatics, microbial ecology, and evolution, and biotechnology.
- Structure: Students conduct an independent research project in conjunction with a Microbiology graduate program faculty advisor.
- Coursework: Determined in conjunction with the graduate committee, it might include:
- BIOL 804: Plant-Microbe Interactions
- MICR 805: Immunology
- MICR 815: Immunology Laboratory
- GEN 804: Genetics of Prokaryotic Microbes
- GEN 813: Microbial Ecology and Evolution
- GEN 817: Molecular Microbiology
- NR 806: Soil Ecology
- ANFS 933: Design, Analysis, and Interpretation of Experiments
- BCHM 825: Cell Phenotyping and Tissue Engineering Laboratory
- BCHM 853: Cell Culture
- BCHM 854: Molecular Biology Research Methods
- BIOL 811: Experimental Design & Analysis
- BIOL 902: Writing and Publishing Science
- BIOL 950: Scientific Communication
- GEN 812: Programming for Bioinformatics
- GRAD 891: National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Preparation
- GRAD 930: Ethics in Research and Scholarship
- LSA 900: College Teaching
- MATH 835: Statistical Methods for Research
- MCBS 901: Introduction to Research in the Life Sciences
- MCBS 913: Applied Bioinformatics
- MCBS 910: Cell Signaling Networks Across the Kingdoms
- MCBS 997: Seminar
- NR 905: Grant Writing
- NR 909: Analysis of Ecological Communities and Complex Data
Assessment:
- Successful completion of all required coursework
- Passing a written qualifying exam
- Developing and presenting an independent research proposal
- Successful defense of the research proposal
- Completion and defense of a dissertation based on research
Teaching:
- Students are required to complete one semester of teaching as a Graduate Teaching Assistant.
Careers:
- Research scientists in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
- Lab managers in academic research labs and research institutes, state and federal government agencies
- Academic preparation for future teaching and research roles in a college or university environment
University of New Hampshire
Overview:
The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is a public research university located in Durham, New Hampshire. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research. UNH is a top-tier research institution, as classified by the Carnegie Classification, and is consistently ranked among the best value public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
Services Offered:
UNH offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, majors, and career paths.Career Services:
Assists students with career exploration, job searching, and internship opportunities.Financial Aid:
Offers various financial aid options to help students afford their education.Housing & Residential Life:
Provides on-campus housing options and support services for students living in residence halls.Dining:
Offers a variety of dining options on campus, including meal plans and catering services.Student Support:
Provides resources and support services for students facing academic, personal, or financial challenges.Fitness & Recreation:
Offers a variety of fitness and recreational activities, including intramural sports, sport clubs, and fitness classes.Health & Wellness:
Provides health and wellness services to students, including medical care, counseling, and health education.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNH offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including:
Clubs & Organizations:
Over 300 student clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests.New Student Programs:
Provides orientation and support services for incoming students.Student Union:
Offers a variety of events, programs, and services for students.Athletics:
UNH is home to the Wildcats, a Division I athletic program with a strong tradition of success.Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Tier Research Institution:
UNH is a leading research university with a strong focus on innovation and discovery.Excellent Academic Programs:
UNH offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.Vibrant Campus Life:
UNH provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience with a wide range of activities and opportunities.Strong Alumni Network:
UNH has a large and active alumni network that provides support and mentorship to students.Beautiful Campus:
UNH is located on a beautiful and spacious campus with a variety of amenities and facilities.Academic Programs:
UNH offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
UNH offers over 100 undergraduate majors across various colleges and schools, including the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics.Graduate Programs:
UNH offers over 70 graduate programs, including master's degrees, doctoral degrees, and professional degrees.Other:
UNH has two additional campuses: UNH Manchester and UNH Law. UNH Manchester offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, while UNH Law is a nationally recognized law school.
Entry Requirements:
Completion of foundational courses in biology, chemistry (including organic chemistry), physics, genetics, and mathematics. Otherwise, well-qualified applicants can correct academic deficiencies by enrolling in appropriate courses or independent study during the first year of graduate studies. Applicants from non-English speaking countries must provide Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. Three letters of recommendation. Personal statement, including research interests and names of two or three potential Microbiology faculty thesis advisors.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Applicants from non-English speaking countries must provide Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores.