University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, laboratory rotations and an extended research dissertation. Early years focus on core principles in microbial genetics, molecular biology, cellular microbiology, immunology, and quantitative approaches to biological systems. Students normally complete a set of foundational seminars and laboratory rotations that expose them to diverse experimental systems—bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic and immune-cell models—before selecting a thesis laboratory.

• Coursework: graduate-level modules in molecular immunology, microbial pathogenesis, host–microbe interactions, genomics and systems biology, statistics for biologists, and experimental design.
• Seminars and journal clubs: regular departmental and cross-disciplinary seminars, invited speakers, and student-led journal clubs that keep students current with the literature.
• Laboratory rotations: multiple rotations in different labs to develop technical skills and identify a thesis mentor.
• Qualifying requirements: written and/or oral qualifying examinations to assess readiness for independent research, followed by a dissertation proposal and committee approval.
• Thesis research: an extended original research project culminating in a dissertation and public defence, with expectation of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Professional development: training in teaching, grant writing, ethics, communication, and career preparation workshops.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology or a closely related field. Many successful applicants also hold a master’s degree or have substantial laboratory research experience. The programme seeks candidates with demonstrated potential for independent research and critical thinking.

• Academic background: a bachelor’s degree with coursework in genetics, cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry; advanced coursework is advantageous.
• Research experience: prior laboratory experience, internships or publications are important evidence of preparedness for doctoral research.
• Application materials: transcripts, CV, a statement of research interests, and at least three academic or research references.
• English proficiency: international applicants for whom English is not a first language must demonstrate proficiency through an approved English test or equivalent institutional evidence.
• Standardised tests: consult the programme for current policy on tests such as the GRE; requirements may change and some applicants are considered without scores.
• Funding: PhD students are typically offered competitive funding packages that cover tuition and provide a living stipend; details are provided by the programme at offer stage.

Career prospects

Graduates from this field pursue a wide range of careers that draw on deep experimental expertise and analytical skills. Typical paths include academic research and faculty positions, postdoctoral training, and research scientist roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Other common careers are in translational medicine, clinical research, government or public-health laboratories, scientific writing and communication, patent law and intellectual property (often with additional training), and roles in science policy or research management.

• Laboratory-based roles: principal investigators, senior scientists, and R&D scientists in industry.
• Translational and clinical research: positions in translational medicine, clinical trial research coordination and diagnostics development.
• Data-intensive roles: bioinformatics and computational biology roles in academia and industry.
• Non-laboratory careers: science policy, regulatory affairs, medical/scientific communication and entrepreneurship.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary environment within a major research university and medical centre. Students benefit from close interactions with faculty across biological sciences, medicine and quantitative disciplines, and access to well-equipped core facilities for genomics, imaging, flow cytometry and high-throughput screening. The culture emphasises critical thinking, hypothesis-driven research and mentorship.

• Interdisciplinary research: strong collaborative links to clinical departments, computational groups and cross-campus research centres enable translational and systems-level projects.
• Faculty expertise: opportunities to work with faculty whose research spans microbial pathogenesis, immunology, host–microbe ecology and quantitative biology.
• Resources and facilities: access to modern core facilities and institutional support for career development, teaching experience and grant writing.
• Professional development: structured training in communication, leadership and career planning to prepare graduates for diverse career trajectories.