PhD in Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology

This doctorate trains a new kind of scientist, one able to model complex biological processes and make sense of the huge amounts of biological data produced by projects like the Human Genome Project. The program is genuinely interdisciplinary, building competence in mathematics, biology and computer science. Students work with faculty researchers to create and use the tools and algorithms needed to predict and prevent disease, find cures, and address pressing environmental problems. Each student plans a course of study and research with a faculty advisor, tailored to prior background and interests. Core courses establish a firm base in the three fields. Further coursework reaches advanced subjects such as biovisualization, biomedical database mining, biological simulation and statistical methods for genetics and bioinformatics. Career preparation is built in. A teaching and mentoring component and a professional skills seminar are required, and an internship with an industry partner is optional. Available concentrations include biology and biotechnology, and the program page covers admissions, application requirements and logistics.