The Plant Pathology PhD program provides broad training in the microbial sciences through core and elective coursework and in-depth research training opportunities in molecular, genetic, genomic, and ecological aspects of microbes, including free-living and plant-associated fungi, bacteria, and viruses. New PhD students will have the opportunity to rotate through three labs, to gain experience with the scientific questions and techniques employed in each. Following the selection of a permanent lab and a Major Advisor, students deepen their expertise in that lab's research area through participation in all aspects of the research endeavor, including generating novel hypotheses, writing proposals, mentoring undergraduate assistants, developing and executing tests and assays, and participating in lab discussions. With guidance from the Major Advisor, students then develop and execute their own novel research projects and disseminate their results through scientific publications.
Core coursework is minimal and includes cross-training in basic plant science, to ensure a solid foundation in plant responses to microbial interactions. Elective coursework, chosen in consultation with the student's advisors, deepens expertise in areas related to the intended direction within plant microbial research.
The Plant Pathology PhD prepares graduates for research and leadership careers in, for example, federal and state agencies involved in food safety, industry pursuits of crop improvement through microbiome manipulation, academic institutions with foci on basic and applied microbial sciences.