Ph.D. in Natural Sciences: Cell Biology and Biophysics
Program Overview
The Natural Sciences Ph.D. program’s cell biology and biophysics discipline provides training in the fundamental principles of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry, and provides the opportunity to develop independent research skills for a successful career as a research scientist. Students gain valuable insight from our industry partners and have gone on to pursue careers in postdoctoral programs, universities and corporate settings.
Program Structure
Format
In-person
Typical program length
5 years
Typical course load
3 courses per semester the first year, 3-5 courses per semester the second year, dissertation research after year 2
Program Details
Program requirements
The program is comprised of at least 48 credit hours, including:
- 23 credit hours in the cell biology and biophysics primary discipline
- 10 hours outside the primary discipline
- 15 dissertation hours
Complete course listing on Academic Catalog
Program Benchmarks
- Pass a qualifying exam at the end of the second year.
- Successfully defend your dissertation.
- It's expected that your dissertation will lead to publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Costs, Aid and Funding Opportunities
Cost is a major consideration when deciding whether to continue your education. Please contact the program coordinator about assistantships that may be available. We also encourage you to learn more about costs and financial aid and external funding opportunities that can make earning your degree more affordable.
- Our Ph.D. students are given tuition remission and a $26,000 stipend ($27,000 after they pass their qualifying exam).
- Students are encouraged to apply for NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) awards and NIH F31 awards.
- There are numerous travel and research awards sponsored by UMKC.
Why UMKC?
Diverse training areas
Study a diverse blend of topics covered in required and elective courses that enhance your interdisciplinary insights, adaptability and problem-solving techniques.
Lab-based research
Match you career research interests and goals by choosing the right lab fit for your dissertation work after you complete your fist year.
Faculty mentorship
Gain extensive advisement throughout your degree program, starting with the graduate discipline coordinator, followed by your dissertation mentor and Ph.D. committee.
Application Details
Application Procedures and Requirements
- Prepare the required documentation, including:
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Statement of purpose outlining your interests and career goals
- Three letters of recommendation
- Complete the online application and please be sure to pay applicable domestic or international program fees. Potential students need to choose either Cell Biology and Biophysics or Molecular Biology and Biochemistry as their discipline. Applicants to both disciplines will be evaluated as a group.
- Make sure you meet discipline-specific requirements, which are listed in the Academic Catalog.
Application Deadlines
- The application deadline for this program is December 15 for fullest consideration.
- Applications submitted after the deadline will only be reviewed on a space-available basis.
- It is strongly recommended that applicants reach out to the program coordinator prior to applying.
- Applications received by the December 15 deadline will receive final admission decisions by February 15.
Still Have Questions?
Email our program coordinator for more information.
Karyn Turla Teaching Professor Phone: 816-235-6404 Email: turlak@umkc.edu
Natural Sciences Ph.D. Coordinator: Cell Biology and Biophysics, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry