A student uses a pipette

Biology (Ph.D.)

Prepare for a career in research or academia through a combination of extensive research and coursework to earn a Ph.D. in biology at Illinois Tech.

Illinois Tech's Ph.D. program in biology is tailored to fit your background and goals. Programs of study may be designed in any of the three areas of concentration: biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or microbiology. The department has state-of-the-art computer and laboratory equipment in which to conduct research in these areas.

In addition, the department constructs and operates facilities for X-ray scattering and imaging at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory. The department offers graduate programs leading to Ph.D. degrees in biology, concentrating educational and research activities in the areas of biochemistry, bioinformatics, cell and molecular biology, and microbiology. Graduate education in biology is available on either a full- or a part-time basis.

Program Overview

The Ph.D. program is tailored to fit your background and goals. The department has state-of-the-art computer and laboratory equipment in which to conduct research, including X-ray scattering and imaging at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory.

Career Opportunities

A career with a Ph.D. in biology will depend on the concentration of study.

  • Microbiologist
  • Environmental scientist
  • Medical scientist
  • Natural sciences manager
  • Postsecondary biology teacher
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The information provided is sourced from a third party, Lightcast, and is provided here for informational and educational purposes only. Please be advised that the inclusion of the Lightcast resource on this website does not imply endorsement by Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), nor is it a guarantee of the accuracy of this information. Illinois Tech makes no representation, warranty or guarantee, express or implied, that the information presented herein is reflective of the outcomes you can expect if you enroll in or graduate from an Illinois Tech program. Illinois Tech expressly disclaims any liability regarding Lightcast, or in connection with any actual or potential employment opportunity stemming from information on this site and you hereby irrevocably waive any claim(s) against the Illinois Tech for the same. Your use of this web page is an acknowledgement of your understanding and acceptance of the terms and conditions set forth herein. You are encouraged to conduct your own thorough research into job opportunities and outcomes in your field of study.

Completion of an M.S. degree is not normally required for admission to the full-time Ph.D. degree program, but may be required of part-time students.

You must pass the Ph.D. qualifying examination in your respective area of specialization: biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, or microbiology.

  • GRE: 310 (quantitative and verbal), 3.0 (analytical writing)
  • GPA: 3.0/4.0

Informing Agricultural Practices Through Computational Genomics

Biology Ph.D. Candidate Dakota Bunn investigates the habits of the western bean cutworm, a pest to corn and dry beans, using computational genomics.

Learn More