University of San Francisco

What you'll study

The PhD in Cell combines advanced coursework with sustained laboratory research leading to an original dissertation. Early-stage students typically complete core modules in cellular and molecular biology, advanced cell signalling, genetics and genomics, and experimental design and statistics. Laboratory rotations allow students to gain hands-on experience in diverse techniques such as live-cell imaging, confocal and super-resolution microscopy, CRISPR and gene editing, proteomics, single-cell sequencing, and quantitative bioinformatics.

As the programme progresses, students focus on specialised seminars and elective modules that reflect their research interests — for example, stem cell biology, cancer cell biology, neurocellular mechanisms, immunology at the cellular level, or systems cell biology. Training also emphasises professional skills: grant writing, scientific communication, ethics in research, and teaching pedagogy. Milestones include qualifying examinations, a dissertation proposal, and defence of the doctoral thesis.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences or a closely related discipline is normally required; many successful applicants hold a relevant master’s degree. Strong preparation in molecular and cellular biology and in laboratory techniques is expected.
• Research experience: Demonstrated research experience in a laboratory setting is essential. This may include undergraduate or postgraduate research projects, publications, or substantial laboratory employment.
• Application materials: Applicants are typically asked to submit academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, and letters of recommendation (usually two or three). A clear description of research goals and potential faculty mentors strengthens an application.
• English proficiency: International applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency in accordance with university regulations.
• Other considerations: Some applicants may be invited for interviews or to meet potential supervisors. Specific programme policies on test scores (for example, GRE) and minimum grade thresholds are set by the department and should be confirmed with the programme office.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Cell pursue a broad range of careers. Many continue in academic research as postdoctoral fellows and transition to faculty positions in universities and research institutes. Others enter the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries in roles such as project leader, research scientist, or translational scientist. The training also prepares graduates for careers in scientific core facilities, regulatory science, science policy, patent examination and intellectual property, clinical research coordination, and science communication or education.

The programme’s emphasis on quantitative methods, imaging, and genomics is particularly valuable for positions in modern translational research and data-driven biology. USF’s Bay Area location provides proximity to research hospitals, biotech companies and start-ups, which can facilitate internships, collaborations and industry-facing career opportunities.

Why study at University of San Francisco

• Interdisciplinary research environment: The university supports cross-disciplinary collaborations across life sciences, engineering and public health, enabling cellular biologists to work on translational and systems-level questions.
• Faculty mentorship and small cohorts: PhD students receive close mentorship from faculty with active research programmes; smaller cohort sizes promote individualised training and stronger supervisory relationships.
• Access to advanced facilities: Students have access to core facilities for microscopy, genomics and proteomics, as well as computing resources for bioinformatics and image analysis.
• Bay Area advantages: Located in San Francisco, the university provides geographical access to a dense ecosystem of academic medical centres, biotechnology firms and research institutes — valuable for collaborations, seminars and career networking.
• Ethical and community focus: Aligned with the university’s mission, the programme encourages ethical conduct in research, community engagement and training that considers social impacts of biomedical science.