UNCG offers a PHD in Nanoscience that features a Synthetic Biology Concentration designed to prepare students for leadership in cutting-edge research. Graduates develop strong communication skills for proposing research, reporting discoveries, and evaluating others’ work, both orally and in writing. Safe laboratory practices and adherence to protocols are emphasized throughout the program. Graduates will learn to analyze and synthesize complex concepts in nanoscience and nanotechnology, applying these skills to advance research in the field. The Synthetic Biology concentration provides students with a strong foundation in biochemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology.
Why Choose UNCG for PHD in Nanoscience, Synthetic Biology
The Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN) is an academic collaboration between UNCG and the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T). What truly distinguishes this program is its joint-school structure, which unites the resources of two major research universities. This collaboration provides graduate students with access to renowned interdisciplinary faculty, advanced nanotechnology facilities, and a breadth of research opportunities that span numerous scientific and engineering disciplines.
Student Support and Resources
The JSNN Nanoscience PhD program, with a specialization in Synthetic Biology, enables students to conduct research across a wide array of topics, including advanced materials, nanoelectronics, biotechnology, and nanomedicine. Students benefit from a transdisciplinary curriculum that merges concepts from physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, mathematics, and computational science. This broad training prepares them to tackle complex challenges in fields like energy, medicine, electronics, and advanced materials.
- A typical timeframe for completing the Ph.D. degree on a full-time basis is four to five years; however, students may take up to seven academic years to complete all degree requirements.
- Students must gain the equivalent of two semesters of teaching experience. The teaching experience requirement may be met in several ways by working with your advisor.
- Ph.D. applications are processed on a continuing basis, and decisions on admission are made when the application file is complete.
- Acceptance into the degree program is highly competitive, with several options of financial support while you pursue your degree.
“I was relieved to have her by my side. It felt like home again. We have been close to each other always, so going to the same graduate school has been a blessing for us.”
–Dr. Tanjina Islam ’24, Ph.D. in Nanoscience, Synthetic Biology
Career Outcomes and Opportunities
Graduates of this degree program will be equipped to lead and manage advanced research initiatives in Nanotechnology and Nanoscience. These skills will enable them to propose and report on research and critically evaluate peers’ work. Additionally, they will possess the expertise to analyze and synthesize complex concepts, applying this knowledge to drive innovation and further advancements in the field. PhD graduates are in high demand across many high-growth industries, including medical devices, aerospace and defense, electronics and photonics, renewable energy, and academia.
- Senior Research Scientist
- Molecular Biology Scientist
- Gene Therapy Scientist
- Drug Discovery Scientist
- Precision Medicine Scientist
- Director of Research
- Director of Synthetic Biology
Program Details
Degree Type: Doctoral
College/School: Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering
Program Type: Majors & Concentrations
Class Type: In Person
Catalog Name: Nanoscience, Ph.D. Synthetic Biology Concentration