Overview
Molecular and Computational Biology Graduate Program at USC Has Two Tracks Toward a Ph.D.
In order to earn a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or a Ph.D. in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics at the University of Southern California, students must be accepted into the graduate molecular and computational biology program.
The molecular biology Ph.D. program and the computational biology and bioinformatics Ph.D. program are two separate tracks within the molecular and computational biology program, and thus, while they differ in their formal requirements, neither constrains candidates' course selection or research in any way.
Candidates who have a background in experimental biology are, for the most part, admitted into the molecular biology Ph.D. program, while students who have a more robust quantitative background in computer science, statistics, or math are more likely to be admitted as a candidate for a Ph.D. in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics.
The molecular biology Ph.D. program at USC requires candidates to take two fundamental courses during their first year, which give students a deep understanding and view of modern computational and molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics.
As part of their research training, candidates are also required to complete three lab rotations with various advisers. Then, after the completion of the first year, each student selects a permanent adviser who will supervise the student's thesis research.
To obtain a Ph.D. in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics at USC, students study under the supervision and direction of a guidance committee for the first year. Students study appropriate subjects in math and are required to complete the graduate molecular biology course.
Before the first year has ended, candidates must choose a guidance committee that will be comprised of an adviser as well as four other members of the faculty. From that point on, the dissertation committee and this guidance committee direct the candidate's studies and dissertation.
University of Southern California Recognized as Top Research Institution
Among the U.S.'s top research universities, USC falls among the top 25 in national performance rankings. This distinction is due to the diverse and knowledgeable faculty, the quality of the research, and the state-of-the-art research facilities that students and faculty have access to.
The faculty at the University of Southern California is diverse. The molecular and computational biology faculty roster is comprised of over 30 members who hail from all over the globe. Areas of specialty include biological sciences, biochemistry, computer sciences, mathematics, and preventive medicine.
USC also has a world-class list of research facilities to which students have access. These include the Cell and Neurobiology Imaging Facility, Dornsife Cognitive Neuroscience Imaging Center, Image Processing and Informatics Laboratory, Keck Center for Liver Diseases Confocal Microscopy Core, Multi-Photon Microscopy Core, Neuroplasticity and Imaging Laboratory, Norris Center Cell and Tissue Imaging Core, PET Imaging Science Center, Saban Institute Small Animal Imaging Research Center, and the USC Molecular Imaging Center.
Los Angeles Offers Nearly Limitless Cultural, Recreational, Educational, and Business Opportunities for USC Students
The metropolitan city of Los Angeles, California, is among the globe's most exciting and spirited geographic areas. L.A. offers unmatched access to modern commercial activity and nearly limitless cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. Los Angeles is a cultural crossroad that allows students of the University of Southern California innumerable chances to engage with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. USC students use these opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
Housing in Los Angeles is at a premium and can be pricey. Graduate students have the option to live in privately owned apartments or homes, or in university housing. USC has a housing Web site, which provides graduate students with useful resources and information regarding housing options.
Los Angeles is a metropolis of entertainment. USC students have movies, theme parks, museums, art galleries, and theaters galore, right in the neighborhood. Downtown Los Angeles alone has countless opportunities to experience culture and adventure. Students who have a little time on their hands can be found at the downtown Farmer's Market, Historic District on Olvera Street, Griffith Park, or the Los Angeles Zoo.
Only a gas tank away from Los Angeles, students of the University of Southern California have access to surfing, skiing, skate parks, and snowboarding. Keep in mind the vast majority of students have access to an automobile, as it is nearly impossible to live in Los Angeles without one.
