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Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Biology
Take part in an enriching scholarly adventure in plant biology, where education transcends boundaries. Our Ph.D. program invites you to chare your unique course, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to unlocking the mysteries of plant biology. From Inquiry to revelation, this is where your academic odyssey commences.
As you pursue your Ph.D., you’ll find a comprehensive program tailored to your ambitions. Since the first Ph.D. was awarded in 1965, our department has evolved to encompass all dimensions of plant biology, adapting to everchanging environments.
Our devoted faculty and staff are prepared to guide you through every faced of your scholarly pursuits, ensuring your success within the dynamic Plant Biology community. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with our faculty to design a personalized program aligning with your research and career goals. You will pursue independent and impactful learning showcased through a final dissertation, setting the stage for your academic distinction.
Our program also includes valuable teaching experiences in undergraduate courses, providing a holistic approach to scholarly growth and offering you the chance to shape the minds of future Plant Biologists.
Degree Requirements
Our Plant Biology Ph.D. program to dive into cutting-edge scientific research. Starting with the 'Introduction to Research' seminar in your first Fall Semester, you'll be guided by an Advisory Committee through a curriculum that includes departmental seminars and discipline-specific seminars annually. The program requires at least 20 semester hours at the 400 and 500 levels in Plant Biology or related fields, allowing you to customize your academic path. You can also choose a minor specialization, adding a personalized touch to your major studies. Core courses cover essential topics like general plant biology, systematics, physiology, and ecology, with additional recommended courses in plant anatomy and genetics for those aspiring to careers in teaching or research.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Biology can be earned by fulfilling the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree.
Concentration
The Ecology Node of the Ph.D. Program in Plant Biology at Southern Illinois University offers a blend of theory and practical application in ecological research and education. This dynamic program focuses on comprehensive ecological theory through hands-on learning, encompassing everything from individual organisms to the biosphere. Students will explore ecological succession, nutrient cycles, and ecosystem dynamics, while gaining practical experience with current methodologies and analytical tools. The program covers diverse habitats and encourages the integration of ecology with other plant biology disciplines, preparing students to apply ecological principles in real-world environmental sustainability challenges.
Research
Elevate your academic experience – explore, learn, and lead. Immerse yourself in the heart of our program with the essential element of research. Beyond traditional coursework, each term mandates a hands-on training assignment tailored to your unique needs, professional ambitions, and skill set.
Whether through impactful research projects or dynamic teaching experiences, these assignments evolve in responsibility as you advance. Engage in approximately 10 to 20 hours of services per week. This provides you with a holistic and enriching educational journey.
Awards
Research Assistantships and fellowships: Explore individual faculty opportunities funded by external grants for assistantships and fellowships. Inquire with the Department Chair or preferred faculty members for details. Qualified graduate students are eligible for stipends and full tuition waivers. Refer to the graduate School Cost and Financial Assistance page for more
Teaching Assistantships: Departmental Teaching Assistantships are available. For a availability details, contact the Chair or Director of Graduate Studies.
Graduate School Fellowships and Awards: Competitive fellowships for Doctoral degree is offered through the SIU Graduate School. To apply, submit a completed application by the specified deadlines. The Graduate School website provides a comprehensive list of internal funding opportunities, including Fellowships and scholarships.
Tools
In the Ph.D. program, you’ll showcase your proficiency by mastering two approved research tools selected by your advisory committee. Tools encompass diverse areas such as lab techniques, technology, language proficiency, and communication skills vital for research pursuits.
Your advisory committee will define specific tool requirements.
Not that courses fulfilling tool requirements won’t count toward the total credit hours needed for the degree. For language proficiency, achieve a grad of be or higher in a relevant 400- level course (Latin, French, German, Spanish or Russian) or pass an ETS examination.
Statistical tool requirements are met with a B or better in designated graduate-level statistics courses or approved alternatives. Expand your skillset – choose from a range of approved courses to fulfill tool requirements and broaden your horizons.
Contact Information
Matt Geisler
Director of Graduate Studies
Life Science II 403
1125 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-3212
mgeisler@plant.siu.edu