Systems biology seeks to explain the relationships between parts and wholes at multiple scales of complexity through integrated empirical, computational, and theoretical approaches. The Systems, Synthetic and Quantitative Biology PhD Program provides a foundation to tackle this challenge through training that advances our understanding of how evolved systems are organized and leverages this understanding for the intentional synthesis of systems. In pursuit of these goals, the training emphasizes the development and application of formal ideas from mathematics, statistics and computer science as well as the innovation of experimental techniques to acquire new kinds of quantitative data at scale. This field requires a fusion of concepts from many disciplines, including biology, computer science, applied mathematics, physics and engineering. Students with backgrounds in any of these disciplines are encouraged to apply. 

Please note the following: 

Students in this program receive a stipend, and are not responsible for paying tuition. GRE scores are not required for admission. If applying to the program causes financial hardship, you may request an application fee waiver. Please see our Frequently Asked Questions for more information. 

If you are unsure how to apply, current SSQBio students would like to help you! Student volunteers run an Application Assistance Program (AAP).  If you would like to find out more, please submit an interest form. We will match applicants to mentors on a rolling basis until November 1. Additionally, all applicants are encouraged to send questions to current students for general advice about graduate school.