PhD in Applied Life Sciences

The mission of KGI’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Life Sciences is to endow a select group of students with expertise in research areas relevant to applied bioscience, with the ability to use interdisciplinary tools and approaches to solve problems, and with the motivation to translate knowledge to beneficial applications to advance new horizons in the applied biosciences.

Before entering the PhD program, students must first identify a faculty member and an area of research that matches their skills and interests. Once encouraged by a KGI faculty member to apply, all applicants must have completed a master’s degree focused on applied life science.

Students enrolled in this program will:

  • Learn to draw upon the unique interdisciplinary and applied educational foundation as they continue their studies.
  • Gain competence in the methods of scientific inquiry by conducting and communicating original research for their theses.
  • Become adept in the translation of discoveries in science and engineering into beneficial products and processes through exposure to industry issues and applied problems.

Download the Program Info Sheet

PhD Program Tracks

KGI offers two PhD Program Tracks:

  1. Applied PhD track – The student conducts PhD studies on KGI premises under supervision of Henry E. Riggs School of Applied Life Sciences or School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences faculty. To foster interdisciplinary research, the student may have one or more research advisors. One advisor must be a KGI faculty member; additional advisors may be from collaborating institutions.
  2. Industry – Sponsored PhD track – The student is sponsored by a biotechnology or pharma company. This track involves the student conduct studies at the company site while periodically visiting KGI. In addition to the company research advisor, the student must be supervised by a KGI faculty advisor.

Day in the Life of a KGI PhD Student

Interested in the PhD program?