PhD in Biological Sciences
Become an independent scientist. Lead discovery.
The PhD in Biological Sciences at the University at Buffalo is a research-first doctoral program for students who want to push the boundaries of biological knowledge. Through close mentorship, advanced coursework and original dissertation research, you will develop the skills, confidence and independence needed to lead in academia, industry and beyond.
UB’s doctoral program combines rigorous scientific training with a collaborative, mentor-driven culture. From the start, you will work closely with faculty advisors while contributing to active research programs across modern biology.
Program strengths
- Nationally recognized research environment with engaged faculty mentors
- Interdisciplinary training that spans molecules, organisms and ecosystems
- Strong culture of collaboration and professional growth
- Full financial support through teaching and research assistantships
- Opportunities to build teaching, writing and presentation skills alongside research
The PhD program emphasizes early immersion in research and steady progression toward independent scholarship. Students are supported throughout the program by a primary research advisor and a dissertation committee that provides guidance, feedback and accountability.
Key components
- Foundational graduate coursework during the first two years
- Research rotations to explore faculty labs and refine research interests
- A candidacy exam centered on original research design and core knowledge
- Faculty-mentored dissertation research
- Public presentation and defense of original research
Funding and support
All admitted PhD students receive full financial support through renewable teaching and research assistantships. Support includes:
- Tuition scholarships
- Academic-year stipends
- Opportunities for teaching and professional development
Doctoral research in Biological Sciences at UB spans multiple levels of biological organization. Students commonly engage in research related to:
- Molecular biology and gene expression
- Signal transduction in sensory systems and development
- Evolutionary genomics and population biology
- Ecology and organismal biology
- Cellular and systems neuroscience
This breadth allows students to approach complex biological questions from multiple perspectives while developing deep expertise in a focused area.
Graduates of the PhD program develop both deep disciplinary expertise and transferable skills. Across the program, students will:
- Critically evaluate original scientific literature
- Design hypothesis-driven research projects
- Apply appropriate statistical analyses
- Communicate scientific findings clearly in writing and presentations
- Use modern scientific tools responsibly and effectively
- Demonstrate mastery in a focused area of biological sciences
After completing the candidacy exam, students focus primarily on original dissertation research under faculty supervision. Regular meetings with the advisory committee help refine research questions, troubleshoot challenges and support steady progress.
The program culminates in:
- A written dissertation evaluated by the advisory committee
- A public seminar presenting original research
This process prepares students to communicate their work confidently to both specialized and broad audiences.
Graduates of the PhD in Biological Sciences are prepared for leadership roles across sectors. Alumni pursue careers in:
- Academic research and higher education
- Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
- Government and nonprofit research organizations
- Science policy, communication and consulting
- Advanced roles in health and biomedical fields
The program’s emphasis on research depth, mentorship and professional skills supports adaptable and durable career paths.
If you are driven by curiosity and ready to contribute original research to the biological sciences, UB’s PhD program offers the mentorship, resources and community to support your goals.
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