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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

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Massachusetts

United States

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Program Rank

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PhD in Computational and Systems Biology at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with profound insights into the rapidly evolving field of computational biology. This advanced degree emphasizes rigorous research methodologies and innovative applications of computational techniques to biological questions. Students will engage in a curriculum that integrates the principles of mathematics, computer science, and biology, empowering them to tackle complex biological problems with cutting-edge computational tools. The program encourages students to push the boundaries of existing knowledge through research, fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and academic excellence.

At MIT, students benefit from world-class faculty who are leaders in the fields of systems biology, bioinformatics, and computational neuroscience. These experts are dedicated to mentoring the next generation of scientists and researchers, providing valuable insights into both theoretical and practical aspects of computational biology. The faculty members employ a variety of teaching methodologies, including hands-on workshops, in-depth seminars, and collaborative projects, which ensure that students not only acquire knowledge but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in their careers.

The program's curriculum is carefully crafted to cover essential topics such as biostatistics, machine learning in biology, systems modeling, and algorithm design. Students will have the opportunity to engage in specialized courses tailored to their interests and career goals, such as genomic data analysis and protein structure prediction. The interdisciplinary nature of the program allows students to collaborate across various fields, including computer science, biology, and engineering, paving the way for innovative research that crosses traditional boundaries.

Research opportunities abound within the PhD program, with access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources. MIT's commitment to fostering research is evident through its extensive network of partnerships with biotech companies, research institutions, and governmental agencies. Students are encouraged to conduct independent research projects that contribute to significant advancements in the field, and they benefit from the available resources, including cutting-edge computational facilities and access to extensive biological databases.

The program is designed with student success in mind, offering robust industry connections and internship opportunities. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to enter various sectors, including academia, healthcare, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries. The skills acquired through this program position graduates for careers as Research Scientists, Biostatisticians, Bioinformatics Scientists, and Computational Biologists, among others. With a graduation rate of 96% and a median base salary of $63,000, the program boasts a strong track record of equipping students for success in competitive job markets.

Alumni of the PhD in Computational and Systems Biology program have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their respective fields, with many holding prestigious positions in academia and industry. Testimonials from former students highlight the transformative experience at MIT, emphasizing the invaluable mentorship from faculty, the collaborative atmosphere, and the exposure to groundbreaking research. These alumni serve as a testament to the program's effectiveness in shaping future leaders in computational biology.

In summary, pursuing a PhD in Computational and Systems Biology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology provides a unique opportunity to engage in advanced research and learning in a highly esteemed academic environment. The program's commitment to innovation, combined with its strong industry ties and exceptional faculty, makes it an ideal choice for aspiring scientists eager to make meaningful contributions to the field of computational biology.


Why Study PhD in Computational and Systems Biology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  • World-renowned faculty with extensive expertise in computational biology.
  • Robust curriculum covering a wide range of topics, including data analysis, systems modeling, and algorithm development.
  • Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.
  • Strong industry connections and internship opportunities with leading biotech companies.
  • High graduation and job placement rates, ensuring successful career pathways.
  • Opportunity to collaborate on groundbreaking research projects across interdisciplinary teams.
  • A vibrant academic community that fosters creativity, innovation, and professional growth.

To be considered for admission, applicants need to meet certain requirements and prerequisites, including a completed application with a non-refundable fee of $90. Key application components include:

  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • A statement of purpose detailing the applicant's goals and motivations.
  • Updated resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
  • Proof of English language proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL scores, with specific minimum score requirements.

Applications for the program are accepted for the Fall semester, with a standard deadline of December 1st, 2024, ensuring that aspiring students have ample time to prepare their materials for submission. The PhD in Computational and Systems Biology at MIT represents an unparalleled opportunity to advance in this exciting field, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in research and industry applications.

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Duration

66 Months

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Median Salary

$63,000

Ranking

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#2

US World and News Report

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#5

The World University Rankings

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#1

QS World University Rankings

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Intake

Fall ( Sept - Nov )

Class Profile

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Class Size

10

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Average Age

31

Diversity

Black or African American:

12%

Others:

8%

Two or more races:

5%

Asian:

15%

Hispanic or Latino:

12%

White:

48%

Career Outcomes


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Median Earnings After Graduation

$63,000 / year

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Graduation Rate

96%

Prospective Job Roles

Research Scientist

Biostatistician

Biotechnologist

Bioinformatics Scientist

Database Administrator

Computational Biologist

Data Science

Researcher

Clinical Pharmacology Scientist

Top recruiters

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Eligibility Criteria

English Proficiency Tests

  • IELTS

    7

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  • TOEFL

    100

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Application Requirements

Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

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Application Fee: 90

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    Transcript

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    Statement of Purpose

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    Passport

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    Resume

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    IELTS

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    Academic LOR

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    Provisional Certificate

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    Degree Certificate

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    Semester wise Marksheet

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    General LOR

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    General LOR

Application Deadlines

Standard Deadline
FallDec 1, 2024

Fees and Funding

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Overall Cost

$28,884 / year

Funding Options

Department Funding

FAQs

  • All CSB students are fully supported until they complete all the requirements of the PhD program. This support may come from sources such as a NIH T32 Training Grant; federally-sponsored fellowships from the NSF, DOD, DOD NDSEG, and DOE CSGF; and fellowships and awards from international organizations. Please see the CSB website for more information.

  • At MIT Admissions, we understand that there have been many disruptions over the past few years. Some of these may have impacted your grading systems. We want you to know that we accept whatever grades your school can make available to us and consider them in the context of your school, whether that be letter grades, numerical grades, narrative assessments, or something else. In some cases, you may have the ability to choose the type of grades you want to send us. Numerical or letter grades help us get a better understanding of your mastery in a subject. We encourage students to send those types of grades if they have them, because they help us make better decisions. Grades that are pass/fail give us confidence you have the minimum proficiency in a course to successfully pass. Please remember that no matter which type kind of grades you send, they are only one piece of the overall application. We look at other factors such as testing, what your teachers say, etc., in order to understand your academic preparation for MIT. If there is an extenuating circumstance that has impacted your performance in a class, or a decision to take a course pass/fail instead of with a letter grade, you can use the additional information section on the self-reported coursework page to provide additional insight.

  • On the application, there are designated spaces to provide additional context on how the pandemic or other circumstances may have disrupted your coursework, access to testing, and extracurricular activities. If you feel it would be helpful for us to know about your circumstances, you are welcome to use those spaces to share more.

  • At MIT Admissions, we understand that there have been many disruptions over the past few years. Some of these may have impacted your grading systems. We want you to know that we accept whatever grades your school can make available to us and consider them in the context of your school, whether that be letter grades, numerical grades, narrative assessments, or something else. In some cases, you may have the ability to choose the type of grades you want to send us. Numerical or letter grades help us get a better understanding of your mastery in a subject. We encourage students to send those types of grades if they have them, because they help us make better decisions. Grades that are pass/fail give us confidence you have the minimum proficiency in a course to successfully pass. Please remember that no matter which type kind of grades you send, they are only one piece of the overall application. We look at other factors such as testing, what your teachers say, etc., in order to understand your academic preparation for MIT. If there is an extenuating circumstance that has impacted your performance in a class, or a decision to take a course pass/fail instead of with a letter grade, you can use the additional information section on the self-reported coursework page to provide additional insight. Did you find this article helpful?

  • No, it is MIT policy to communicate directly with applicants about their applications, rather than with their family members. If you have a question, please email us from the email address that you used to register for the MIT application portal.

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