The graduate program in Plant Systems Biology is composed of 16 faculty members that share a fundamental interest in understanding molecular, cellular and developmental processes in plants.

Powerful new methods in molecular genetics, biochemistry, and genomics are applied to analyze nearly every process in plants, such as growth and development, environmental and biotic stresses, photosynthesis, nuclear-organelle interactions, gene expression, DNA repair/recombination, and epigenetic phenomena.

The faculty research interests overlap in these areas and there is much interaction between the various groups. Because of these wide diversity in faculty interests, prospective students are encouraged to pursue the application process regardless of their prior areas of study within the biological sciences.

The program's goal is to provide students with the background and training appropriate for a career in academics, government, or the private sector.

Our graduate curriculum includes two introductory seminars, a set of core courses to be completed within the first year, and initial research training through laboratory rotations. In consultation with faculty advisers, students develop the remainder of their course program and choose a research topic according to their interests and career goals.

Further Information

Graduate Training in Plant Systems Biology

Core Faculty

Associated Faculty