Molecular/Cellular Biology, PhD
Science, Scientist, animal, approved for STEM-OPT extension, plant, sols
In this flexible program, you'll tailor your experience to meet your specific professional goals. Through a wide range of research and training opportunities led by world-class faculty, you'll come to understand the essential molecular functions at the core of all life.
The PhD program in molecular and cellular biology emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches in fundamental and highly applied molecular and cellular biology to answer basic and translational research questions. Students can tailor the program around their interests while gaining skills in the most innovative approaches and techniques.
Faculty have a diverse range of research interests and training opportunities for doctoral students interested in pursuing a degree that extends beyond the traditional boundaries of biological research. Participating faculty members and researchers are drawn from multiple departments, colleges, centers and institutes across the university including:
- New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport and Energy
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change
- School of Life Sciences
- School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
- School of Molecular Sciences
Participating faculty members are also based at partner institutions in the greater Phoenix area, including:
- Caris Life Sciences
- Mayo Clinic Arizona
- Phoenix Children's Hospital
- Translational Genomics Research Institute
- University of Arizona College of Medicine -- Phoenix
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation
Required Core (6 credit hours) Electives or Research (54 credit hours) Other Requirements (12 credit hours) Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) Additional Curriculum Information
MCB 555 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Sciences (3)
MCB 556 Advanced Molecular and Cellular Biology II (3)
BIO 543 Molecular Genetics and Genomics (3)
BIO 610 Introduction to Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) in Life Sciences (1)
MCB 501 Seminar: Molecular and Cellular Biology Colloquium (8)
MCB 799 Dissertation (12)
Students take MCB 501 eight times for one credit hour. Courses listed as other requirements may be substituted with approval of the academic unit.
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in the biological sciences, biochemistry or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
Applicants must submit the following:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- academic record form
- personal statement
- curriculum vitae or resume
- three letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
Research experience is a desired qualification.
Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:
- Able to review the literature relevant to the research question in molecular and cellular biology that they address in their dissertation.
- Able to execute a research plan of their own design that addresses a significant scientific question about molecular and cellular biology.
- Able to communicate the rationale and results of their research, both orally and in writing.
Graduates hold positions as researchers and leaders in nongovernmental organizations, biotech and pharma, and in federal and state agencies.
Career examples include:
- faculty in universities and colleges
- leaders of nonprofit organizations
- principal investigators and leaders in private, government and industrial labs
School of Life Sciences
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LSA 181
sols.grad@asu.edu
480-965-1768
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
