We pride ourselves in the breadth and depth of training opportunities in both research and teaching in the Plant Biology program. Our faculty includes nationally and internationally recognized experts, and many of our faculty have interdisciplinary research programs that span traditional areas. We welcome students with diverse research interests and support them in designing their individual area of study. Our program includes experts in plant sciences, fungal biology, insect evolutionary biology, bioinformatics, and discipline-based science education, providing our students with a unique breadth of opportunities in their professional training and research. Students interested in the Plant Sciences, Fungal Biology, Firefly Biology, Bioinformatics and/or Discipline-Based Science Education can pursue a Ph.D. program in the UGA Department of Plant Biology by applying to one of two programs: The Integrated Plant Sciences (IPS) program. How to Apply to IPS (with tips). The Integrated Life Sciences (ILS) program. How to Apply to ILS (with tips). Please review the research areas in these programs and talk to potential advisors about their preference on how to route your application. Financial Support for Ph.D. students. Graduate students are guaranteed support and are usually paid through one of three types of assistantships: Laboratory Assistantship (LA), Research Assistantship (RA), and Graduate School Assistantship (GSA). LA awards are given to students who serve as laboratory assistants in courses taught by Plant Biology or Biology faculty. Ph.D. students are required to teach at least two semesters during their graduate training. RA support is paid from a faculty member’s research grant, if available. GSAs are awarded yearly by the Graduate School. Assistantships may be awarded for the 9 month academic year, in which case summer support must be separately obtained, or for 12 months. For more Financial Information from Graduate School please see here. The deadline for applications to be assured full consideration for financial support and on-site recruiting interviews is on the first weekday of December (both programs). If you are considering applying after that date, please contact the graduate coordinator (contact information below) for more information. We are always eager to include highly qualified and motivated students in our program and look forward to reviewing your completed Background and Interest forms and Applications. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Shu-Mei Chang, Graduate Coordinator Email: smchang@uga.edu Phone: 706-583-8026
