New accelerated research Ph.D. program
The graduate program in molecular plant sciences is one of several Washington State University graduate programs recently chosen to receive new state-funded RA positions. The 12 new positions given to molecular plant sciences will be used to initiate the new accelerated research Ph.D. program, which is designed to support and reward students who enter directly into a laboratory when they begin their study at WSU.
Who can apply for these positions?
Prospective students who have specific laboratory skills and established interests are encouraged to seek out laboratories where they can put their experience to use immediately upon entering the program.
Students who wish to receive assistantships in the accelerated research program should directly contact potential faculty advisors to discuss their research interests before applying to the graduate program. The program will work with faculty to award accelerated research assistantships to students whose interests and qualifications best fit the research being conducted in faculty laboratories.
What is the advantage of an accelerated research Ph.D. program?
The accelerated research program is designed to allow students to finish their program of study at WSU more quickly and productively.
Traditionally, molecular plant science graduate students have begun their studies with a series of laboratory rotations during their first year. However, some students have sought out or been recruited by faculty members who have brought them directly into their laboratories. These students have a number of advantages, including an opportunity to immediately build relationships within the laboratory, an accelerated research schedule, and more opportunities to directly apply their course work.
Chair David Kramer hopes that the accelerated research Ph.D. program will provide more opportunities for faculty to recruit outstanding students directly into funded research positions, and help students begin their productive research careers as soon as possible after entering the program.
For more information, please contact Paula Gibbs, program coordinator, at molecular-plants@wsu.edu. |
