John Planz, PhD, Graduate Advisor
Center for BioHealth, Suite 355
Phone: 817-735-2397
Email: John.Planz@unthsc.edu
Website
Genetics is a broad interdisciplinary field that unites biochemistry, microbial and cellular biology, molecular processes, biotechnology, computational biology, biogeography, and human disease to gain an integrated understanding of environmental and clinical observations. The Genetics discipline offers training in analytical techniques and computational methods necessary for studies in the different fields of applied genetics. Our students often expand their skill set through involvement in fellowship programs, in areas such as health disparities research and neurobiology of aging.
Students may enter the program with a variety of academic backgrounds provided that they have fulfilled GSBS foundational courses focused on molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, statistics, and a minimum of one laboratory rotation with a Genetics faculty member. Experience in laboratory methods, computer programming and bioinformatics is recommended. Students receive additional training in the discipline’s advanced courses in Molecular Genetics and Medical Genetics, as well as other discipline electives, special topics courses and seminars. Students undertake research in diverse areas such as cancer biology, Alzheimer’s Disease, computational genetics, evolutionary genetics, forensic genetics, medical genetics, microbial genetics, and many other interrelated disciplines.
Students perform original, publishable research, present their research findings at scientific meetings, and present at the UNT Health Science Center’s Research Appreciation Day annually. Master of Science (MS) students are expected to graduate in 2 to 3 years, whereas Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students will generally graduate in 4 or more years.
Graduates typically gain employment in academia, industry, and governmental/regulatory agencies.