Dartmouth College

What you'll study

This PhD is built around intensive laboratory research combined with structured coursework and mentored training. Early-stage students typically complete core courses in molecular and cellular biology, advanced immunology, microbial pathogenesis, genetics, and quantitative methods such as biostatistics and bioinformatics. Practical training includes laboratory rotations with different faculty supervisors to identify a thesis laboratory, hands-on courses in techniques such as flow cytometry, advanced microscopy, next-generation sequencing workflows and microbial culture methods, and formal instruction in experimental design and reproducibility.

As you progress you will focus on an independent research project that culminates in a dissertation. Regular activities include departmental seminars, journal clubs, grant-writing workshops and opportunities to present at internal and external meetings. Training in teaching, science communication and research ethics is integrated into the programme to prepare students for diverse careers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a closely related discipline; many successful candidates also hold a master’s degree or have substantial laboratory research experience. Typical preparation includes coursework in general and organic chemistry, cell and molecular biology, genetics, and mathematics or statistics, together with demonstrable wet-lab research experience.

Standard application materials include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining research interests and goals, and three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can evaluate research potential. International applicants should provide evidence of English language proficiency if required. Requirements such as standardised tests and specific prerequisites can change, so applicants should consult the programme website for current admissions policies.

Career prospects

Graduates from this field pursue careers across academia, industry and public service. Common paths include postdoctoral research leading to tenure-track academic positions, research scientist roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and positions in translational research or clinical laboratory science. Other career outcomes include roles in regulatory affairs, scientific project management, science policy, patent law (with further training), and science communication or education.

The programme’s emphasis on experimental design, data analysis and communication equips graduates to lead research projects, participate in interdisciplinary teams and translate basic science into applications such as vaccines, microbial therapeutics and diagnostic tools.

Why study at Dartmouth College

Dartmouth offers a supportive, close-knit research environment that emphasises one-to-one mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from access to the resources of the medical school and affiliated research centres, including core facilities for genomics, microscopy and flow cytometry, and clinical research partnerships with regional health systems.

The College promotes professional development through grant-writing support, career workshops and networking opportunities with faculty and alumni across academia and industry. The relatively small cohort sizes foster strong peer networks and frequent interaction with faculty, helping students progress efficiently from foundational training to independent research and publication.

Prospective applicants should review the programme’s webpages and contact potential faculty mentors to learn about current research themes and laboratory openings prior to applying.