Joseph Warren, PhD, Graduate Advisor
Center for BioHealth, Suite 355
Phone: 817-735-5017
E-mail: Joseph.Warren@unthsc.edu
The Molecular Genetics program offers training in analytical techniques and computational methods necessary for studies in the different fields of applied genetics. Acceptance into the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) does not guarantee entry into the Molecular Genetics program. Students may enter the program with a variety of academic backgrounds, provided that they have fulfilled prerequisite courses in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and statistics, or their equivalent. Experience in computer programming and bioinformatics is recommended. Students participate in seminars and receive extensive training in the techniques of contemporary molecular genetics.
Students perform original, publishable research, and present their research findings at scientific meetings. 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. Students may undertake research in areas such as cancer biology, computational genetics, evolutionary genetics, forensic genetics, medical genetics, microbial genetics, and many other interrelated disciplines. In order to be considered for entry into the program, students are expected to complete two laboratory rotations within the first year with two different faculty members. One rotation must be completed with a faculty member of the Molecular Genetics faculty. The student, in consultation with the Graduate Advisor and other faculty, should select additional laboratory rotations to expand laboratory skills and/or data interpretation analysis methods. Acceptance into the Molecular Genetics program is dependent on signing a Designation/Compact between the graduate student and a research advisor within the Molecular Genetics program. Once accepted into the Molecular Genetics program, students are required to register for and complete a seminar course and/or current topics each long semester.
Master of Science
Students following the MS degree track will conduct original research. The MS degree requirements are met upon satisfactory completion of a minimum of 30 semester credit hours (SCH) of coursework and research credits, including the successful completion of a formal public seminar on his/her thesis research, oral final defense of his/her research and approval of a thesis.
Doctor of Philosophy
Doctoral studies in Molecular and Medical Genetics are broadly interdisciplinary. The PhD degree requirements are met upon satisfactory completion of a minimum of 90 semester credit hours (SCH) of core curricula, specialized upper division courses, and research credits, including the successful completion of the requirements for advancement to candidacy and defense of the dissertation research. Students entering the program with a non-terminal MS degree must complete a minimum of 60 SCH beyond that earned in their master’s studies. Prior to the dissertation defense, the doctoral candidates must have one first author manuscript derived from the dissertation research accepted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal; and, an additional manuscript published, in press, or submitted. Students who have advanced to candidacy before the end of the Summer 2014 semester are exempt from this requirement.
General Statement
The policies outlined are applicable to all graduate students in the Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics regardless of the date the student entered the graduate program unless otherwise noted. The policies may change during the student’s tenure at the UNT Health Science Center.