Computational Biology and Bioinformatics (PhD)

The Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology offers a PhD in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics. The PhD in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics is awarded in conformity with the general requirements of the USC Graduate School. Study in the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics PhD program emphasizes original research that culminates in a doctoral dissertation.

A separately published guide, available from the Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, provides additional information on the topics listed below, along with other program policies.

Application deadline: December 15

Course Requirements

Students in the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics PhD program take graduate courses that cover topics from biology, computer science, mathematics, statistics and other disciplines. These courses guarantee a broad foundation in our field, and ensure students have sufficient scientific background and intellectual tools for success in research. A list of required courses can be found at the bottom of this page.

A minimum of 60 units is required.

Screening Procedure

As per Graduate School requirements, all students in the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics PhD program undergo a screening procedure. This procedure consists of written tests taken by each cohort before the end of their first year.

Advisement

Each student in the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics PhD program is assigned an academic adviser from among the Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology's faculty. This person will act as the student's dissertation committee chair. Advisers are determined by the end of the first year based on shared research interests with the student. The primary role of the adviser is to guide the student as they work towards their dissertation.

Qualifying Examination

Students must pass a qualifying examination to advance to candidacy in the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics PhD program. The qualifying exam consists of a written part and an oral part. Both parts are evaluated by a faculty qualifying committee, which is formed separately for each student and is led by the student's dissertation chair.

Dissertation

After advancing to candidacy, each student forms a faculty dissertation committee. Students work toward their dissertation research under the guidance of their adviser and with input from their dissertation committee. The dissertation committee meets annually to ensure appropriate degree progress. The central requirement of the doctorate is a dissertation based on the student's original research that makes a substantial advance to scientific knowledge or technical capability in our field.