This individualized and immersive Ph.D. sequence trains the student to become an innovative researcher in Molecular and Cellular Biology, a field which integrates numerous methods, topics, and applications including biotechnology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, neurobiology, developmental biology, genomics, bioinformatics, structural biology, and biochemistry. The program's goal is provide a diverse set of students with the tools to become future leaders in molecular sciences, applying their knowledge to solve problems in basic life sciences, health, biotechnology, and related areas. See School of Biological Sciences website for specific topic areas.
A student applying to a doctoral program must:
More information about specific application requirements for international students can be found on the International Admissions website.
Doctoral applicants to the program are expected to have considerable prior research experience. This could be from a master’s degree, comprehensive undergraduate research experience, or equivalent background in other academic or non-academic research.
The first step in the application process is to ask about working in a lab. We do not admit graduate students unless they have at least one faculty member who is willing to have them in their lab.
Contact a member of our faculty who works in your area of interest. Discuss whether they are taking new students, whether your interests sufficiently overlap with theirs, and what research topics are being pursued in their labs.
Submit your vita in the application system. It should include any information that will help assess your potential as a student in our graduate program. Also include:
Write a one-to-two page statement of your academic and professional goals and submit it in the application system.
Your statement should include:
Submit names and email addresses of three references for letters of recommendation within the online system.
GRE scores are not required for your application. However, if you wish to submit them, you may.
Scores do not play a significant part in our decision-making process for admission. GRE scores may help your application if you did not have strong undergraduate grades but have strong GRE scores.
Use institution code 1319 if you want to submit your scores. It will not be held against you if you do not submit GRE scores as part of your application.
International students required to take an English proficiency test must have a TOEFL score of 90 or greater. The IELTS equivalent is approximately 6.5.
Term | Application Deadline |
---|---|
Fall (August) | February 1 |
Spring (January) | Not accepting applications |
Summer | Not accepting applications |
The University provides graduate assistantships as a means of financial support. They are intended as a way to facilitate a student's progress to degree while providing important professional development.
To be eligible for an assistantship a student must, generally,
Graduate assistants receive
Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs) are available for qualified students.
Teaching Assistantships in the Ph.D. program currently receive $ 2,042 per month for nine months plus tuition waivers. Opportunities for up to three months per year of additional support are available.
See Student Accounts for information on tuition and fees. Funding for graduate students is available from several different sources. Students who have been admitted from contiguous states including Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, and Wisconsin will receive in-state tuition.
Name | Office | Phone | Note | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dr. Ben Sadd | Felmley Hall Annex 337 | bmsadd@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2651 | Graduate Coordinator |