PhD in Applied Biology Overview

As a doctoral student in the Applied Biology Ph.D program at UMass Lowell, you will receive rigorous training in research, dedicated mentorship and the skills needed to succeed in a variety of careers. Our faculty research spans the full breadth of biology, providing you with an interdisciplinary approach and a variety of innovative methods. In addition to a dissertation advisor, you will assemble a thesis committee of three additional faculty to develop a broad mentoring network. Our location in the heart of Massachusetts’ biotechnology center provides excellent career opportunities, and Ph.D graduates from our department have secured jobs in a range of fields.

Please note: Admission to the Applied Biology Ph.D. program is contingent on securing a faculty sponsor and obtaining a letter of sponsorship from that faculty member. 

Why Study Applied Biology at UMass Lowell?

Curriculum & Training

As a doctoral student, you'll work with your advisor to design a set of classes to meet your research interests, totaling 30 credits of coursework, including a set of core classes. Taking core courses as a cohort builds community and helps you acquire key skills for success in your Ph.D., preparing you for a wide range of careers.

  • BIOL.6060 Applied Biology I - career planning, time management, mentorship, networking
  • BIOL.6070 Applied Biology II - collaboration,scientific literature review, presentation
  • BIOL.6030 Graduate Colloquium Biology 
  • BIOL.6040 Professional Communication in Science and Technology
  • BIOL.6050 Graduate Proposal Writing Seminar

For more information on the curriculum, including course listings and degree pathways, please visit the Academic Catalog and our Graduate Student Handbook.

Typical Timeline for Applied Biology Ph.D. students

  • First two years: Take core classes and advanced coursework while either serving as a Research Assistant (RA) or Teaching Assistant (TA).
  • End of second year: Assemble your Dissertation committee and take the oral Qualifying Exam.
  • Start of third year: Write and orally defend your Dissertation Proposal, which allows you to advance to Ph.D. candidacy. 
  • Third year and beyond: Continue your dissertation research, participate in colloquium or journal clubs, hold yearly committee meetings and plan for your future career.

Research at UMass Lowell

Biology research female putting liquid in test tube

Our research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, NASA and the Department of Defense, along with various foundations and companies.

Explore All Biology Research  View Biology Faculty

Funding Opportunities

All doctoral students receive a stipend negotiated by the Graduate Employee Organization, affordable health and dental insurance and a full tuition waiver. In addition, research advisors can provide funds for summer stipends, travel to attend conferences or attending scientific courses.

Admissions

Below are some specific aspects of admission to the Applied Biology Ph.D. program. These policies are in addition to all the standard requirements for graduate admission described by the Kennedy College of Sciences Graduate Admission Requirements.

  • Faculty Sponsorship - Admission to the Applied Biology Ph.D. program is contingent on securing a faculty sponsor and obtaining a letter of sponsorship from that faculty member. The applicant is responsible for identifying potential advisors, communicating with them and securing a Letter of Sponsorship from at least one faculty member in the Applied Biology program. Many faculty have their own process for selecting prospective Ph.D. students, so contacting them early in your application process is best.
  • Standardized Exams - The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required for admission but may be requested by a faculty sponsor during the evaluation process. 

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Phone:
800-656-4723 (U.S. Students)
978-934-2390 (International Students)

Email
Graduate_Admissions@uml.edu