Program Overview
The Biology (Biology and Society) PhD program at ASU emphasizes interdisciplinary research and critical thinking, equipping students with advanced knowledge in biology and its social dimensions. The program offers four specialized tracks and provides opportunities for hands-on research, workshops, and seminars. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, government, industry, or NGOs, with a focus on ethical, policy, and environmental issues surrounding biosciences and biomedicine.
Program Outline
It emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from life sciences, social sciences, humanities, and ethics. The program provides a strong foundation in life sciences while fostering critical and independent thinking skills.
- Objectives:
- Equip students with advanced knowledge and research skills in biology and society.
- Develop students' critical thinking and interdisciplinary research skills.
- Prepare students for careers in academia, research, government, industry, or NGOs.
- Program Description: The program offers four specialized tracks:
- Bioethics, policy and law: Focuses on ethical, policy, and legal issues surrounding biosciences and biomedicine.
- History and philosophy of science: Explores conceptual foundations of science, epistemology, and methodology.
- Ecology, economics, and ethics of the environment: Addresses sustainable and equitable solutions for environmental challenges.
- Biology education research: Uses educational research to improve undergraduate biology education.
Outline
- Required Core: Choose either BIO 514 Statistical Models for Biology (4 credits) or BIO 620 Research Prospectus Writing (3 credits).
- Individual program plans are designed in consultation with advisors and committees.
- The program offers opportunities for students to participate in research projects, workshops, and seminars.
Assessment
- Written comprehensive exam
- Oral comprehensive exam
- Dissertation proposal and defense
- Coursework performance
- Research progress and achievements
Teaching
- Teaching methods:
- Interactive lectures
- Seminars
- Research-based learning
- Collaborative projects
- Interdisciplinary approaches
- Faculty:
- Renowned researchers and scholars in various fields related to biology and society.
- Expertise in bioethics, history and philosophy of science, environmental ethics, biology education, and more.
- Unique approaches:
- Emphasis on interdisciplinary perspectives and critical thinking.
- Opportunities for students to engage in hands-on research and real-world projects.
- Strong connections with NGOs, government agencies, and industry partners.
Careers
- Potential career paths:
- Academic positions (professors, researchers) in colleges and universities
- Policy analysts and advisors in government agencies
- Research scientists in industry or NGOs
- Science educators and communicators
- Bioethicists
- Environmental consultants
- Career opportunities:
- The program prepares graduates for a wide range of professional opportunities across various sectors.
- Graduates are equipped with strong communication, research, and analytical skills, making them highly competitive in different career paths.
Other
- The program is eligible for STEM-OPT extensions for international students on F-1 visas.
