Prospective Graduate Students

Students interested in Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology (EEOB) should apply directly to the Biology department.  Our admissions process is primarily driven by faculty interest, so please identify and contact at least one prospective adviser who’s lab you would be interested in joining before applying.

Students interested in Quantitative Biology (QBio) should apply directly to the Biology department. Applicants will only be considered if a faculty member is willing to advise that student. Applicants therefore need to identify prospective advisors prior to submitting an application and indicate this on the application. Please refer to the Quantitative Biology Graduate Track page for more information.

Students interested in Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) must apply through the BBSP (refer to the MCDB page for information). Through the BBSP program, students complete lab rotations during their first year and then at the end join a lab and program.

Students interested in the interface of EEOB and MCDB should contact one or more prospective faculty advisers for guidance on how to apply.

Our Biology graduate programs span the breadth of biological questions and experimental systems — from evolution in viruses to cell and molecular biology in frogs and plants to bioinformatics of the human genome. Advances in genome sequencing and analysis together with rapid growth in interdisciplinary research are making the 21st century an exciting time for Biology.  The University of North Carolina recognizes the importance of investing in Biology research and training and is undertaking key initiatives in the life sciences.  The Biology department’s addition of the Genome Science Building and the recruitment of many new faculty make the department a vibrant place to learn and advance science.  We invite you to join us in these exciting times.

Our  graduate students have the opportunity to become outstanding researchers in their chosen area of specialization.  They learn how to conduct and analyze scientific research, give seminars, publish research papers, and write grants.  Our programs allow flexibility in training for a multitude of futures, from university research and teaching, to biotechnology, to environmental conservation.

Thank you for joining us!