Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics PhD

The MS and PhD programs in Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics (GGB) prepare students to contribute to exciting new research essential to the success of 21st-century medicine, novel treatments and cures. The program is expressly designed to develop innovative and creative scientists, with an emphasis on the “how and why” of GGB research, and its broader significance to science and medicine. The GGB faculty-scientists engage graduate and doctoral students in cutting-edge research across diverse disciplines, directing approximately $20 million in research funding annually.

Curriculum and Requirements

Our PhD requires at least 72 hours of coursework, including hands-on laboratory research throughout the program and a culminating thesis. You are admitted to and spend your first year of study in our interdisciplinary PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences (PPBS).

First Year Curriculum

Your first year emphasizes interdisciplinary study in the biomedical sciences as well as an opportunity to begin exploring genetics, genomics and bioinformatics. You will learn about a variety of fields, gaining a broad base of experience and knowledge.

You also will work in at least three labs, collaborating with renowned research scientists on cutting-edge research.

This combination of a structured, interdisciplinary curriculum and strong support for your individual interests prepares you to pursue your career goals, whether in academia, industry or government.

1st Semester (17 credits)

BMS 509TUT - Igpbs Laboratory Credits: 3 - 5
BMS 510TUT - Igpbs Credits: 3 - 5
BMS 514LEC - Introduction to Scientific Investigation and Responsible Conduct Credits: 2
BMS 515LEC - Fundamentals of Biomedical Research I Credits: 4
BMS 516LEC - Fundamentals of Biomedical Research II Credits: 3

2nd Semester (13-17 credits)

BMS 509TUT - Igpbs Laboratory Credits: 3 - 5
BMS 510TUT - Igpbs Credits: 3 - 5
BMS 511SEM - Fundamentals in Biomedical Sciences-Critiquing Scientific Literature Credits: 1
2 electives from the PPBS curriculum

Additional Required Courses (25-38 credits)

You may fulfill some requirements in the second semester of your first year.

BCH 519LEC - Bioinformatics & Comp Bio Credits: 3
or
GGB 519LEC - Bioinformatics and Comp Biol Credits: 3
GGB 502LEC - Essentials of Genetics & Genomics Credits: 3
GGB 606SEM - Dissertation Proposal Credits: 2
GGB 607SEM - Presentation Seminar Credits: 1 (taken years 2 -4)
GGB 701TUT - Research Credits: 1 - 12
GGB 702TUT - Research Progress Report Credits: 1 (taken years 2 -4)

Select 2 from:

BCH 512SEM - Developmental Genomics and Stem Cell Biology Credits: 3
BIO 550LEC - Human Evolutionary Genomics Credits: 3
GGB 505LEC - Human and Medical Genetics Credits: 3
GGB 611LEC - Advanced Microbial Genetics Credits: 2
MIC 607SEM - Dna Replication & Repair Credits: 2
PHC 509LEC - Pharmacogenetics in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Credits: 2
MIC 506LEC - Composition and Function of the Human Microbiome Credits: 2

Elective and Special Topic Courses (6 credits)

Select 6 credits - at least two 500-600-level courses in science, math or computer science, chosen in consultation with your mentor.

You may also elect other GGB courses or 500-600-level courses in computer science, biostatistics, neuroscience, microbiology and biology, with permission from your adviser and the program.

BCH 507LEC - Protein Structure/Function Credits: 2 - 3
BCH 508SEM - Gene Expression Credits: 2
BCH 607SEM - Dna Replication & Repair Credits: 2
BIO 502LEC - Adv Cell & Dev Biology 1 Credits: 4
BIO 550LEC - Human Evolutionary Genomics Credits: 3
BIO 556LEC - Evolutionary Genetics Credits: 3
CSE 536LEC - Computational Biology Credits: 3
CSE 601LEC - Data Mining and Bioinformatics Credits: 3
MIC 512LEC - Graduate Immunology Credits: 2
MIC 627SEM - Molecular Parasitology Credits: 2
NRS 524SEM - Quantitative Neuroanatomy Credits: 4
PGY 505LEC - Cellular and Molecular Physiology Credits: 4
PGY 607LEC - Cellular Basis of Disease Credits: 3
PMY 527LEC - Modern Approaches to Drug Discovery Credits: 2
PMY 627LEC - Target Organ Toxicity Credits: 2
STA 509LEC - Statistical Genetics Credits: 3
STA 525LEC - Stats for Bioinformatics Credits: 3
STA 545LEC - Statistical Data Mining I Credits: 3

Thesis Research

Our program is designed to prepare you for your PhD research work and for the continual learning process of a career in science. The process of developing into a productive research scientist occurs largely during the research for your dissertation.

By the end of your second semester, you will choose a research advisor or mentor who will guide you through the dissertation process.

During your third semester, you will work with your mentor to develop an original research proposal. This process provides an opportunity to apply and sharpen the skills you acquired throughout the first year of the program.

Your research culminates in a written thesis dissertation-an original contribution to the scientific literature.

You must then successfully defend your thesis orally before your Thesis Committee.

Presentation of Research

Our PhD candidates participate in various professional and career development experiences, including oral presentation of primary research in public settings.

We offer various forums, including Spring Research Day, Journal Club and GGB 607SEM - Presentation Seminar , to assist you in acquiring critical presentation skills. You also may present your thesis research in a formal seminar.

Journal Club

As with your research proposal and dissertation research presentations, the Journal Club places a strong emphasis on learning and presenting the “why” of genetics, genomics and bioinformatics research and its broader significance.

Through this monthly forum, you will choose a recent, topical paper from the primary research literature, preferably in consultation with your adviser and the program. The subject may or may not be related to your own thesis research.

The broader theme of the paper you choose provides the context for your presentation and discussion. The specific subject of the paper therefore provides a paradigm for a broader question in biomedical science; you will learn to paint this broader picture and to teach an audience about it.

Total Credit Hours: 72

3.0 Degree GPA required

Instruction Method

In Person (100 percent of courses offered in person)

Full/Part Time Options

Full Time

Credits Required

72 Hours

Time-To-Degree

5 Years

Application Fee

$85

Admission Test **

GRE

SED Statement

This program is officially registered with the New York State Education Department (SED).

Online programs/courses may require students to come to campus on occasion. Time-to-degree and number of credit hours may vary based on full/part time status, degree, track and/or certification option chosen. Time-to-degree is based on calendar year(s). Contact the department for details.

** At least one of the admissions tests are required for admission. Test and score requirements/exceptions vary by program. Contact the department for details.