Overview
Embark on an exciting academic journey with the program in Genetics and Genomics – the main interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in the Natural Sciences at Texas A&M University. Immerse yourself in a world of cutting-edge research opportunities spanning a diverse array of specialties, including Bioinformatics and Genomics, Conservation and Population Genetics, Medical Genetics, Microbial Genetics, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Genetics, and Plant Genetics
At the heart of our mission is the commitment to offering aspiring scientists enriching research opportunities, fostering creativity and resourcefulness. We strive to support their growth in acquiring transferable skills, opening doors to diverse career paths in academia, national laboratories, industry, science policy, entrepreneurship, and beyond.
Our legacy traces back to 1914 when Texas A&M University proudly conferred its first graduate degree in Genetics. Since then, we have awarded over 300 Ph.D. and 200 M.S. degrees in Genetics, solidifying our dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders in this field. Join us on a journey that blends tradition with innovation, where your academic pursuits can flourish and contribute to the continued success of our program.
Admissions
Acceptance to the Genetics Program is based on a holistic evaluation by our Admissions Committee. We assess your undergraduate record, including coursework, laboratory experience, and grades, along with letters of recommendation, resume, and a compelling statement of purpose. For international applicants, demonstrating proficiency in English through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is essential.
The committee goes beyond mere academic achievements, considering the depth and relevance of your coursework, laboratory research experience, scholarly outputs, awards, leadership, faculty references, and overall scientific maturity.
We encourage applicants with unique experiences or circumstances to showcase them, as we are dedicated to fostering a community of exceptional students
Curriculum and Graduation Timeline
In the fall of the first year, the students perform laboratory rotations and start their graduate courses. The laboratory rotations provide an opportunity to evaluate suitable laboratory environments for their graduate research. It is anticipated that most students have decided on a research laboratory by the start of the second semester. During the second and third semesters, students provide teaching assistance to Undergraduates in Genetics to gain teaching skills. However, the main focus is on getting a research project started, with the assistance of the thesis advisor and three additional faculty, who form the thesis committee.
This period is also the time when students will prepare for their preliminary examination, to be taken by fall of the third year. The third, fourth and fifth year are dedicated to continuing and completing the thesis project, presenting data at conferences and publish the work, followed by the thesis defense. The Ph.D. degree is awarded principally on demonstrated ability to conduct significant and original scientific research.
Our students are expected to present their research at national and international conferences and publish in established, high-impact peer-reviewed journals, and their teaching experience provides an additional valuable asset for future job opportunities. Our PhD graduates have been successful in obtaining faculty positions in top research universities, teaching colleges, as well as companies in the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and agriculture.
Career Preparation
We prepare our Ph.D. students for success in the interdisciplinary workforce by providing a comprehensive education on modern scientific career opportunities in genetics. Beyond a strong scientific curriculum, students can diversify their expertise through graduate certificate programs in teaching, business, science law, and public policy. External internships are also available for hands-on experience in industry or science policy. Graduates are well-equipped for diverse career paths, including academia, industry, government, and the private sector.
Certificate of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
The Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Certificate is an excellent opportunity for Ph.D. students with a background in life sciences, emphasizing the acquisition of both biological and computational expertise.The program enhances student experiences with essential training in scripting, DNA/RNA sequencing data analysis, and high-performance computing, applying these skills to diverse areas of biological research.
