City University of New York

What you'll study

The PhD curriculum combines advanced coursework, hands-on laboratory or field research, and professional development. Early stages typically include core seminars and advanced modules in molecular and cellular biology, genetics, biochemistry, ecology and evolution, quantitative methods, and bioinformatics. Students often take elective topics reflecting their specialism, such as developmental biology, microbiology, neurobiology, systems biology, conservation biology, or computational genomics.

• Coursework and seminars: advanced topical courses, journal clubs and discipline-specific seminars to build breadth and depth.
• Laboratory rotations or placements: short research rotations (where offered) to identify a thesis laboratory and develop technical skills.
• Qualifying and candidacy milestones: written and/or oral qualifying examinations and the submission of a research proposal to advance to candidacy.
• Doctoral research and dissertation: independent original research conducted under a faculty supervisor, culminating in a written dissertation and oral defence.
• Teaching and professional development: opportunities to gain teaching experience, present at seminars and conferences, and participate in grant-writing and career workshops.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree and, in many cases, a master's degree in biology, biochemistry, or a closely related discipline. Strong academic performance in core science subjects, documented research experience (laboratory or field), and clear potential for research are essential.

• Academic transcripts: undergraduate degree; a master's degree is advantageous but not always required if research experience is extensive.
• Research experience: demonstrable experience such as honours projects, internships, publications, or substantial laboratory/field work.
• References: two or three academic or professional references who can comment on research potential and preparedness for doctoral study.
• Application materials: a personal statement outlining research interests and goals, a CV, and a proposed area of study or potential faculty supervisors.
• Additional assessments: some programmes may request interviews; standardised tests (if required) or language proficiency evidence for applicants whose first language is not English.

Career prospects

Graduates from a biology PhD typically pursue a wide range of careers that capitalise on research, analytic and technical skills. Common trajectories include academic research and faculty positions, postdoctoral training, and roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.

• Research scientist roles in industry, government laboratories and non-profit research institutes.
• Academic careers as postdoctoral researchers and university faculty, including teaching and grant-led research.
• Positions in science policy, regulatory affairs, patent law (with additional training), and science communication.
• Biotech and pharmaceutical product development, quality control, and clinical research.
• Roles in environmental consulting, conservation organisations and public health agencies for those with ecology or population biology expertise.

Why study at City University of New York

City University of New York offers doctoral training within a large public urban university system with access to a broad network of research-active faculty across constituent colleges and research centres. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaborations, extensive laboratory and field resources, and the professional opportunities found in a major metropolitan area.

• Research diversity: a wide range of research specialisms and cross-campus partnerships allow students to tailor projects and access complementary facilities.
• Urban and field opportunities: proximity to varied ecosystems, hospitals and industrial partners in New York City supports both field-based and translational research.
• Training and support: structured mentoring, teaching opportunities, seminars and career development workshops prepare students for diverse career paths.
• Community and collaboration: a collaborative academic environment with opportunities to engage in multidisciplinary teams and public engagement initiatives.