Genome Science and Technology Concentration
Albrecht von Arnim, Director
The University of Tennessee-Oak Ridge National Laboratory Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology (GST) is a unique and multidisciplinary program for full time graduate study leading to the Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy degree. The program focuses on developments in the biological and computational sciences relating to genome sequences, and the program is designed to take advantage of collaboration between the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Students are trained in emerging areas of genome science, with emphasis on genomics, structural biology, proteomics, computational biology and bioinformatics, and bioanalytical technologies. Scientists from both campuses participate in teaching. Research projects pursued for either the MS or PhD are mentored by a faculty member from either campus. A year-long introductory course in Genome Science and Technology focuses on inquiry conducted on a genome-wide scale. Laboratory rotations during the first year offer students hands-on experience in a variety of focus areas.
Applicants are expected to have a background in the biological, physical, or computational sciences. Requirements for admission are one year of general biology or the equivalent; two years of chemistry, including one year of general chemistry and one year of introductory organic chemistry with laboratory; one year of calculus; one year of physics; at least 8 credit hours in cognate sciences related to the program; a GRE score; three letters of recommendation; and a minimum grade point average of 3.0 out of 4.0. Course work in genetics, cell biology, and computer sciences is advantageous. Superior students, deficient in one or more of the above requirements, may be admitted at the discretion of the program admissions committee. Deficiencies will be made up as a part of the courses taken by the individual student.
Requirements for the PhD are satisfactory completion of the genome science and technology core courses, (LFSC 505 , LFSC 515 , LFSC 520 -LFSC 521 , LFSC 541 ; BCMB 511 , BCMB 512 ; three semesters of GST laboratory, satisfactory completion of formal advanced courses in the areas of the student’s interest, passing both written and oral comprehensive examinations, a dissertation reporting the results of original and significant scientific research (a minimum of 24 credit hours of course LFSC 600 - Doctoral Research and Dissertation is required), a final oral/written examination on the dissertation, and a formal seminar presentation of the dissertation research. Participation in at least one seminar during each semester of residence after the first year is strongly recommended.
Plant Physiology and Genetics Concentration
Barry D. Bruce, Interim Director
This program provides the opportunity for intensive training and research experience in areas transcending the usual boundaries of botany, biochemistry, and agricultural plant sciences. Solutions of problems concerning the interactions of physiology and genetics in applied and fundamental aspects of plant science are the focus.
Admission requirements are a BA with a major in a biological, behavioral, or physical science; GRE (general) score; three letters of recommendation; and course work including a year of calculus (differential and integral), one year of chemistry, and a year of physics. Specific course deficiencies may be corrected during the first year.
Required courses are LFSC 510 ; BCMB 511 , BCMB 512 ; BCMB 522 , BCMB 523 , or EEB 560 ; MICR 410 . The minimum requirements for the doctoral degree include at least 6 credit hours above the 600-level, 24 credit hours of course 600, courses approved by the student’s committee, a comprehensive examination, a doctoral dissertation, and a defense of dissertation.
