PhD in Plant Sciences

Research in this field spans molecular and genetic study of basic plant processes, mathematical modelling of plant development, and plant diversity and evolution. Students take a major in plant biology plus two minor subjects. The field sets no language requirement. Equipment includes microscopy, biochemical instruments, growth chambers, greenhouses and field plots, and a herbarium sits beside the plant science building. Candidacy exams come in the spring of the third year. A special committee of faculty guides each student, and progress is tracked through milestones set by the Graduate School and the field. Applicants should look closely at faculty research interests before applying, because the fit between a student's goals and the available mentors shapes the whole experience. Details of the field and its requirements are published in the university catalog.