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The field of genetics has to be one of the most exciting and dynamic frontiers in science today. While genes have existed for more than a century , the application of genetics to applied sciences and medicine is still fairly new. For example, while forensic DNA analysis is a mainstay in contemporary crime investigation, the first conviction based on DNA evidence didn’t happen in the United States until the late 80s, with the trial of Tommy Lee Andrews .

Today, geneticists work on various subjects, from DNA analysis in forensics to one of the many companies that now offers individual genetic testing to determine someone’s heritage and help them find members of their extended family. Genetics is broadly applied in the medical field, where patients’ genetic profiles can lead to better outcomes based on more individualized treatments. Genetic counselors focus entirely on advising patients and their caregivers on treatment options best suited to their genetic makeup.

The job outlook for careers in genetics looks promising, reflecting the rapid growth area of medicine and research. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), opportunities for genetic counselors are expected to swell 18 percent nationally between 2021 and 2031—a rate that the BLS terms “much higher than average.”

However, genetic counselors are only one part of the complex equation that makes up this field. Researchers, instructors, and lab technicians may all be associated with studying genetic material. They should be expected to profit from the immense interest in this area of expertise, both on the side of the sciences and on the part of the industry and the financial sector.

But what careers exist in genetics, and maybe more importantly, how does an individual pursue one of the interesting paths that this field offers? This guide is intended to help orient individuals interested in genetics by exploring a few of the most popular career paths in genetics today. In addition, it offers a few selected educational programs that can lead to a specific profession within this exciting scientific frontier.

Please note that all career outlooks and salaries are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics—the latest figures available as of July 2023.

Become a Genetic Counselor

According to the Centers for Disease Control , genetic counselors are responsible for informing individuals about how genetic diseases and conditions may affect them and their families. Professionals in this field are trained in recognizing hereditary genetic traits that can result in specific defects or illnesses and give patients in their care insights into how this may affect their health and well-being.

Jobs and Pay

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2022) reports that the average annual salary is this field is $93,120, putting individuals at the higher end of the income bracket. With the mentioned 18 percent growth in this particular field, jobs for genetic counselors should be in good supply in the foreseeable future.

For genetic counselors to practice their profession in the US, they must be certified. Currently, the only path to certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling is to complete a master’s program accredited by this organization. Below are two selected programs that fit this bill.

University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina offers a fully accredited master’s program in genetic counseling in Columbia, SC. The university boasts an 84 percent first-time passing rate for board certification for its graduates and is fully accredited by the ABGC. For students looking for a hybrid learning experience, it also allows them to take some required courses remotely.

• Location: Columbia, SC
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion: 36 months
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($34,477); non-resident ($70,520)

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI doesn’t just boast a prominent arts scene, but the storied University of Wisconsin. Prospective genetic counselors can earn their fully accredited master’s here as well. UW’s program is broken into a science and a counseling curriculum, allowing students to gain a foothold in the associated genetic science that informs their profession and the techniques and philosophy that informs the counseling process.

• Location: Madison, WI
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HI)
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($1091,98 per semester); non-resident ($3.821,66 per semester)

Become a DNA Analyst or Forensic Scientist

Forensic scientists may well be one of the most visible and talked-about professions in genetics. Because of the role that they play in modern crime scene investigations—and their portrayals in movies and television shows—forensic scientists may have the most star cachet out of all the professions listed here. Responsible for collecting, analyzing, and archiving evidence from crime scenes and accidents, these individuals are now an important part of investigations in which biological or other evidence material is collected and analyzed.

Forensic science technicians are listed in a category of their own by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, where they can expect a very healthy 11 percent growth rate in their profession (2021 to 2031). According to the BLS, the average pay is $69,260 annually. However, forensic science technicians have quite a bit of room for advancement into supervisory roles and academics, making this a great starting point for a career in forensic science.

An entry into the field can be provided with a bachelor’s program, and numerous colleges and universities across the country now offer some form of degree plan for prospective forensic scientists. A selection of them can be found below.

St. Mary’s University

St. Mary’s University is located in San Antonio, Texas. It offers three different tracks for prospective students interested in forensic science: a bachelor’s of science with a biology option, a bachelor’s of science with a chemistry option, or a bachelor’s of arts with an emphasis on criminology. This three-tracked system is fairly unique and allows students to set an emphasis during their BA or BS.

• Location: San Antonio, Texas
• Estimated Tuition: $17,077 per semester

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University is located in the town of the same name in North Carolina, and offers a bachelor of science in forensic science through its College of Health, Science, and Technology.

FSU boasts of an instructor-to-student ratio of one-to-ten, and emphasizes the individualized learning environment that the university offers through its promotional materials. According to its website, Fayetteville State University’s forensic science program can help prepare its students for the following careers:

• DNA Analyst
• Toxicologist
• Drug Analyst
• Trace Evidence Analyst
• Fingerprint Examiner
• Researcher in Biology, Biotechnology, or the Pharmaceutical Industry
• Food and Drug Inspector

Compared to many other programs, FSU’s forensic science program can be considered quite affordable, even for students not entering with a North Carolina residency.

• Location: Fayetteville, North Carolina
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($1953,50 per semester); non-resident ($3953,50 per semester)

Become a Genetic Engineer

Genetic engineers represent one of the most future-facing aspects of the world of genetics, and it is arguably within this field that much of the technical and medical innovations develop. Genetic engineers study and work with all genetic material, not necessarily human. For example, genetic engineering is now a significant part of the agricultural sector, where it is used to select for favorable aspects in vegetables or animals.

Genetic engineering is a highly skilled profession whose practitioners are well-educated, making this a high-paying career for most individuals. According to the BLS, “bioengineers and biomedical engineers,” the category that most neatly fits genetic engineers, can expect a mean yearly salary of $108,060. Also, the BLS anticipates job openings will increase by 10 percent between 2021 and 2031.

The entryway into genetic engineering is undoubtedly using a bachelor’s degree. Still, most prospective practitioners are encouraged to pursue graduate degrees and postgraduate education to help them gain the best possible foothold in the field and maximize their earning potential. The following PhD programs in the U.S. are uniquely suited to prospective genetic engineers:

Stanford University

Stanford University is undoubtedly one of the most well-regarded institutions for higher learning in the U.S., if not the entire world. Stanford offers a PhD program in genetics uniquely suited to applicants hoping to maximize their options in the job market.

While Stanford is a private university with high tuition, it offers a stipend of nearly $50,000 a year to its PhD students. It provides ample opportunities to connect them with other sources of grants, scholarships, and funding.

• Location: Palo Alto, CA
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Expected Time to Completion: Varies
• Estimated Tuition: $51,882 to $97,353 per year, minus stipend and additional funding

Boston University

Boston University offers a PhD in genetics and genomics through its Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. BU focuses on biomedical research and training the next generation of scholars and researchers and hosts its own Genome Science Institute. The storied Massachusetts school is a great fit for prospective genetic engineers and researchers looking to qualify themselves for a medical career in genetics.

• Location: Boston, Massachusetts
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Estimated Tuition: $51,882 to $97,353 per year

Become a Research Assistant

Research assistants represent a halfway point for many individuals in genetics. Genetic research assistants can be found in thousands of institutions and facilities around the country, working on subjects as diverse as human genomic information as that of animals or plant life. With private and public interests alike taking such a big interest in the field, genetic research assistants should have few issues in finding employment in the foreseeable future.

As research assistants with a background in genetics are spread across multiple fields and industries, hard numbers are difficult to come by. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the 2022 average salary for medical scientists as $110,670 per year. Further, the BLS expects positions to swell 17 percent nationally between 2021 and 2031—much faster than average.

While some positions require a master’s degree, many employers who employ research assistants are open to applications from individuals with bachelor’s degrees. Additionally, depending on the field and depth of expertise required, many research assistant positions may be open to undergraduate and graduate students, allowing them to build a resume while completing their studies. Listed below are several bachelor’s programs in genetics across the United States that can provide a fruitful starting point for prospective research assistants.

Arizona State University (Online)

Arizona State University is well-known for its extensive offering of online courses and certificate programs. For students hoping to attain a bachelor of science degree without needing to attend in-person classes, the program offered by ASU may be a great fit. Graduates of the Arizona State online program are awarded a bachelor of science in genetics, cell, and developmental biology

• Location: Tempe, Arizona
• Accreditation: the Higher Learning Commission
• Expected Time to Completion: 36+ months
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($18,136 per year); non-resident ($14.822 per year)

Clemson University

Clemson University is a public institution in Clemson, South Carolina. Its bachelor of science in genetics bills itself as a perfect entry point for students looking to attend pharmacy, veterinary or medical school after completing their undergraduate requirements. On its website, Clemson boasts many tie-in programs and a strong alumni network that may be especially interesting for individuals looking to build their careers in the country’s southeast.

• Location: Clemson, South Carolina
• Estimated Tuition: Resident ($15,558 per year); non-resident ($38,550 per year)

Other Careers in Genetics

The examples of professions and career paths listed above are just a sampling of the number of specializations available to individuals interested in genetics and genomics. Here are a few other jobs that are attainable with a bachelor’s or higher degree in this field:

• Epidemiologist
• Pharmacological researcher
• Genetic counselor assistant
• Clinical pharmacologist

Johannes Stitz is a freelance writer and researcher based in the Southwest. He’s written about various topics in medical technology careers. Before turning to freelance writing, he spent nearly a decade in the arts as a booker and event manager.

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Ph.D. Program

Graduate studies.

The Genetics Ph.D. program provides opportunities for graduate study in all major areas of modern genetics, including identification and analysis of human disease genes, molecular evolution, gene therapy, statistical genetics, application of model organisms to problems in biology and medicine, and computational and experimental approaches to genome biology.

An underlying theme in our Department is that genetics is not merely a set of tools but a coherent and fruitful way of thinking about biology and medicine. To this end, we emphasize a spectrum of approaches based on molecules, organisms, populations, and genomes.

We provide training through laboratory rotations, dissertation research, seminar series, didactic and interactive coursework, and an annual three-day retreat.

Students receive a competitive stipend ($51,600) for the 2023-24 Academic Year), tuition, health insurance, and a dental care stipend for a full four years. We also encourage students to seek additional fellowships, including but not limited to: NSF GRFP , NIH F31 , NDSEG , Stanford Bio-X fellowship , Stanford DARE , and Stanford CEHG Fellowship .

Lab Rotations

Students rotate through 3 laboratories during their first year in the Genetics Graduate Program. While most students start in Fall Quarter, students are encouraged to consider participating in the  Advance Summer Institute  for a smoother early transition into graduate school. There is a nomination & selection process. The department nominates, so if you are interested please let the department student services officer know. The program is not meant to be a source of summer bridge funding or simply an early rotation opportunity. There are many components to the program that require commitment of time and effort and the funding, reflects both the expectation of full participation and belief that participants should be compensated for these efforts. Office of Graduate Education does the selection for ADVANCE. There is no guarantee that if you are nominated that you will be of admitted into ADVANCE.

Rotations typically last one quarter each, but can be less and are contingent upon the faculty member agreeing to the rotation request. All Genetics students must rotate with at least 1 Genetics faculty member (primary or secondary appointment). Other rotations may be done with any Bioscience faculty.

While students may select a thesis laboratory after completing their third rotation, you can do more Selection of the dissertation research laboratory must be done with the faculty member's approval. Prior to committing to a dissertation laboratory, students are invited to discuss their selection with the Graduate Program Director. Students are welcome to join labs outside of the Genetics Department; if so, they will discuss with the Graduate Program Director whether transferring into that department would be beneficial.

Dissertation Research

Once a student selects a permanent laboratory, they begin their dissertation research that will last for approximately four years. All students are expected to publish at least one first-author paper about their research during this time period, and the work culminates with a thesis defense presentation and written dissertation. See the Genetics Student Handbook for more information.

Coursework, Qualifying Exams, and other Requirements

Students in the Genetics Graduate Program take the Qualifying Examination in the Fall Quarter of their second year of study. There are two parts to the exam, a written research proposal and an oral examination.

Ami Bhatt, Dylan Maghini, and collaborators from the University of the Witwatersrand visit with researchers and staff at the MRC/Wits Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit in Agincourt, South Africa.

Ami Bhatt, Dylan Maghini, and collaborators tour the MRC/Wits Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit labs and biobank facility in Agincourt, South Africa.

Service Requirement

Service and outreach are a critical component of a student’s development as a scientist, and offer unique opportunities to learn by interacting with individuals outside the Department. Students are expected to participate in a minimum of 60 hours of service and/or outreach work prior to defending their dissertation.

Supplementary Educational Activities

In addition to your courses, qualifying exams, and dissertation, the Genetics Department has arranged additional educational activities for students. These regularly occurring meetings are:

Current Issues in Genetics (CIG) Two people from the Genetics Department give 20-25 minute presentations about their current work at this weekly Friday meeting. Students in their third year and above are expected to present their work annually. This series gives students the chance to learn about the range of science going on in the department and provides a great opportunity to give formal presentations to peers and colleagues. 

Graduate Student Journal Club This weekly journal club is organized completely by graduate students from the Genetics and Developmental Biology Departments. At each meeting, one or two graduate students lead 30 minute discussions on their choice of a recent journal article. For the first three years of the Ph.D. program, each student presents once per academic year.

Refreshments are provided by the graduate students and reimbursed up to the current year limit. Reimbursement requires an original receipt to the Student Services Coordinator.

Frontiers in Biology  Every week, the Departments of Genetics, Developmental Biology, and Biochemistry host an external speaker through the “Frontiers in Biology” seminar series. First year students also take a course related to this seminar (GENE 215), where they discuss a relevant paper the day before and meet the speaker after the presentation. 

Frontiers is held most Wednesdays at 4pm in Clark Auditorium.

Other Seminar Series There are many other regular seminar series on campus that students choose to attend. Some of the most popular include:

Center of Law and the Biosciences lunchtime talks. See CLB events calendar or subscribe to the listserv

Evolgenome (organized by CEHG). See CEHG website or subscribe to the listserv

Teaching and Mentoring Academy Events. See TMA website or subscribe to the listserv

Discussing Developmental Data (3D). See events schedule

Biomedical Seminars. See events schedule or subscribe to the listserv

Requirements

Important forms.

Service Requirement Form Click Here

Other Important Info

Please examine the research interests and laboratory descriptions available from the Department Faculty page.

The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs maintains a list of open postdoctoral positions. This site also provides useful information to those considering postdoctoral positions at Stanford.

Geneticist salary

The average salary for a geneticist in the United States is around $82,530 per year.

Geneticists earn an average yearly salary of $ 82,530 . Wages typically start from $ 48,260 and go up to $ 133,830 .

33 % above national average ● Updated in 2021

Geneticist earnings by seniority

Approximate values based on highest and lowest earning segments.

Geneticist salary by state

How do geneticist salaries compare to similar careers.

Geneticists earn about the same as related careers in the United States. On average, they make less than operations research analysts but more than microbiologists.

Source: CareerExplorer (Aggregated)

Clinical Geneticist Salary

How much does a Clinical Geneticist make? The average Clinical Geneticist salary is $86,301 as of April 24, 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $78,040 and $96,136 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

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How to Become a Geneticist or a Genetic Counselor

The field of genetics focuses on the inborn qualities that are passed down from parent to child.

What It Takes to Work in Genetics

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Because of increasing demand for medicine that is tailored to individuals based on their DNA, demand for geneticists and genetic counselors is on the rise.

The essential qualities that people are born with – such as their natural appearance, emotional temperament and body constitution – are heavily influenced by their DNA.

Unfortunately, some individuals wind up with genes that either cause illness or make them more susceptible to becoming sick. This is what is known as a genetic disorder.

People who are interested in combating dangerous inheritable illnesses such as cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia may want to pursue a career as a genetic counselor or a geneticist. Both professions require education and training in genetics. However, one important distinction is that although a master's degree is usually sufficient for a career as a genetic counselor, a doctorate is typical among geneticists, with some opting for a medical degree and others choosing to obtain a Ph.D. degree in a genetics-related scientific discipline.

Geneticists and genetic counselors frequently collaborate in order to help people who have genetic health conditions such as a predisposition toward cancer or an intellectual disability, and they sometimes provide guidance to potential parents with a genetic disease who are wary of passing it along to the next generation. Below is a guide on how to become a geneticist or a genetic counselor, along with an explanation of the field of genetics.

What Geneticists and Genetic Counselors Do and How They Differ

A geneticist is someone who has a medical degree or a Ph.D. degree in science and received several years of specialized training in genetics via a postdoctoral program in the field. Some geneticists are physicians while others are not. Geneticists with medical training often see patients face-to-face and sometimes provide personalized therapies, whereas geneticists with a Ph.D. degree frequently work in diagnostic genetic testing laboratories.

In contrast, genetic counselors focus on helping people cope with the hardship of being at risk for or diagnosed with an inheritable health condition. "Genetic counseling is the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease," the National Society of Genetic Counselors explains on its website.

What Genetics Is All About

Geneticists and genetic counselors say that although genetics is related to biology and chemistry , it differs from both because of its greater focus on the clinical applications of scientific knowledge rather than so-called "knowledge for the sake of knowledge."

Marjan Champine, manager of genetic counseling at the Ancestry genealogy company, describes genetics as "the study of inheritance" and "the passing down of traits from generation to generation."

The genetic makeup of one person often has implications for that individual's entire family, Champine emphasizes.

Miriam G. Blitzer, a Ph.D.-trained geneticist and CEO of the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics – an organization that certifies genetics professionals and accredits genetics training programs – notes that genetics professionals have the potential to prevent newborns with phenylketonuria – a genetic condition known as PKU – from becoming gravely ill if the congenital health condition is identified early and treated effectively.

Blitzer, a professor within the genetics division at the University of Maryland School of Medicine , notes that the field of genetics is evolving extremely quickly due to rapid scientific advancement, which makes working in this discipline challenging and fulfilling.

"A perk is the excitement of a field that is changing all the time," she says.

Coursework in this field varies depending on the level of education and the type of genetics career desired. Although aspiring genetic counselors and geneticists can expect to take some classes on genetic science, future genetic counselors should expect to take courses where they learn about the art and science of counseling people. Postdoctoral programs for aspiring geneticists will include in-depth lessons about the particular career path that they are concentrating on, whether it is medically focused or laboratory-based.

Job Prospects for Geneticists and Genetic Counselors

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the number of genetic counselors employed in the U.S. will increase by 21% between 2019 and 2029 and reports that their median annual salary as of May 2019 was $81,880.

Geneticists say that there is growing demand for their skill set. According to a proprietary salary survey conducted in 2017 by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics – commonly known as ACMG – the median total compensation among physician geneticists who participated in the survey that year was $210,000. The median among responding nonphysician geneticists was $173,000.

Dr. Anthony Gregg, the president of ACMG – a professional organization that represents both geneticists and genetic counselors – notes that some regions of the U.S. have extreme shortages of geneticists and says the nation needs more people to enter the profession. The ACMG offers an abundance of online resources for students training for genetics professions, including a digital guide to careers in medical genetics.

Reasons to Pursue a Genetics Career

One of the wonderful aspects of working as either a geneticist or a genetic counselor, according to people with these jobs, is that the roles offer opportunities to help people in difficult circumstances.

Gregg, who is both an obstetrician-gynecologist and a medical geneticist, says that an excellent geneticist has both the technical expertise and the emotional intelligence to sensitively advise parents of children with birth defects. Talented geneticists can also tailor a patient's drug therapy to his or her unique genetic profile so that a drug that would be toxic to that patient won't be prescribed, Gregg says.

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Graduate Program

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Additional responsibilities, md/phd studies, admission & financial aid.

The program of study leading to the PhD degree emphasizes a broad approach to the fundamental principles of genetics, development and molecular biology combined with extensive research training. The program is designed to permit close interaction between graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty, while also encouraging full participation in the larger community of biological scientists at Yale.

The PhD program in Genetics is designed to provide the student with a broad background in general genetics and the opportunity to conduct original research in a specific area of genetics. The Genetics student is expected to acquire a broad understanding of genetics, spanning knowledge of at least three basic areas of genetics, which include molecular, cellular, organismal, and population genetics. Normally this requirement is accomplished through the satisfactory completion of formal courses, many of which cover more than one of these areas. Students are required to pass at least six graduate level courses.

Students enter the Genetic Graduate Program following the completion of their first year of studies within the BBS Program. Normally students entering the Genetics Graduate Program have selected a faculty thesis advisor with an appointment in the Department of Genetics. Advanced graduate study becomes increasingly focused on the successful completion of original research and the preparation of a written dissertation under the direct supervision of a faculty advisor along with the guidance of a thesis committee.

A qualifying examination is given during the second year of study. This examination consists of a period of directed reading with the faculty followed by the submission of two written proposals and an oral examination. Following the completion of course work and the qualifying examination, the student submits a dissertation prospectus (by the end of the sixth term) and is admitted to candidacy for the PhD degree. There is no language requirement.

The completed research is presented in the form of a written dissertation and a formal seminar. Typically four to six years are required in total to complete work for the PhD degree.

An important aspect of graduate training in genetics is the acquisition of communication and teaching skills. Students participate in presentation seminars and are asked to serve as teaching assistants during two terms (or the equivalent). Teaching duties normally involve assisting in discussion sections, seminar groups or laboratories, and grading, and do not require more than 10 hours per week. Teaching activities are drawn from a diverse menu of lecture, laboratory, and seminar courses given at the undergraduate, graduate, and medical school level. Students are not expected to teach during their first year.

Exchange of information with colleagues is an essential component of scientific life. The Genetics Department hosts a Genetics Journal Club as well as a weekly seminar series. Advanced graduate students present the results of their research to members of the Department in a Research in Progress series each year.

The annual departmental retreat consists of a weekend program of informal research talks, poster sessions, and discussions. This provides an outstanding opportunity to keep up-to-date with the diverse research underway in the department and to participate in vigorous scientific discussions. In addition to these intradepartmental activities, there are many additional seminar programs in which outside speakers from the U.S. and abroad present their work to the Yale scientific community. Students have the opportunity to meet with these guests as well as to select and host seminar speakers. Students are also encouraged to travel to scientific meetings and to present their research.

The breadth of the Program, the flexible nature of its graduate studies, and the increasing recognition of the importance of genetics and development in medicine make this Program ideal for MD/PhD students who wish to pursue a career combining basic and clinical research. Interested students should contact:

Kayla McKay, Registrar, MD/PhD Program Yale School of Medicine 367 Cedar St. New Haven, CT 06510-8046 Tel. 203.785.4403

All the resources for genetic and molecular biology research are available at the University. Major items include the Biomedical Computing Unit, nucleotide and peptide synthesis and sequencing, high throughput microarray technology for functional genomic and proteomic analysis, and facilities for electron microscopy, laser scanning, confocal microscopy, and transgenic mouse and hybridoma construction.

Research laboratories are located throughout the Yale University campus. The Departments of Cell Biology, Genetics, Immunobiology, Microbial Pathogenesis, Neurobiology, Pathology and a portion of Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry are located in the School of Medicine, while the Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology Department, Computational Biology & Bioinformatics, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and the balance of Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry are in the Science Hill area of Yale College.

Research in the biological and biomedical sciences has become increasingly integrated between Yale’s campuses and departments. Research laboratories are located both in the School of Medicine and in the Science Hill area of Yale College. The Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry Department, as well as interdepartmental programs in Neurobiology and Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, have branches in both campuses. The School of Medicine and Science Hill are within walking and bicycling-distance, and a free shuttle bus operates daily to provide transportation between these sites.

Three newly constructed buildings and renovated spaces have added state-of-the-art facilities to the Yale campus. The Boyer Center for Molecular Medicine at the School of Medicine helps bring together both basic and clinical scientists in areas such as molecular genetics, molecular oncology and development, and molecular neurobiology. The new Anlyan Center for Medical Research and Education houses laboratory space, the new Magnetic Resonance Research Center, the Section of Bioimaging sciences, modern teaching facilities and new animal care facilities. The Nancy Lee and Perry R. Bass Center for Molecular and Structural Biology provides a state-of-the-art teaching and research facility that brings together researchers from throughout the University to study gene expression and protein structure. This four-story structure on Science Hill is linked via bridges to the Sterling Chemistry Laboratory and the Josiah Willard Gibbs Research Laboratory. The Yale Center for Genome Analysis (YCGA) is a state-of-the-art DNA Sequencing Center Launched in 2010 on Yale's West Campus to provide a centralized facility for services, equipment and expertise required for carrying out large-scale sequence analysis studies. Yale has allocated entire building to YCGA with over 7000 sq. ft. of custom-designed laboratory and office space equipped with all modern amenities.

Admission to the Department of Genetics graduate program is through an interest-based track, usually the Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics & Development Track (MCGD) in the Combined Program in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS) . Appropriate preparation for graduate study in Genetics includes a bachelor’s degree in the natural sciences including course work in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Almost all successful applicants have undergraduate or postgraduate research experience and have completed courses in genetics, biochemistry, or molecular and cell biology.

Approximately 25 new students enter the Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics and Development Track (MCGD) Track each year. Admission is competitive and is based on evaluation by an admissions committee of academic performance, potential, and letters of recommendation. The top applicants are invited to New Haven at the program's expense for a day of introduction and interviews to assist in the admissions decision.

Students accepted into our graduate program receive a full tuition scholarship including health coverage and a yearly allotment for travel to scientific meetings. All students also receive a stipend for living expenses for the duration of their graduate studies. In most cases, tuition and stipend funds are from predoctoral training grants awarded to Yale by the National Institutes of Health.

Financial aid from international students is extremely competitive and is arranged on an individual basis. International applicants are strongly urged to apply for scholarships or funding from their government or other agencies. Prospective students should submit a completed application form (download application forms), transcripts, graduate records exam scores, and letters of recommendation to the Office of Graduate Admissions by that date. International applicants are also required to submit scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Applications and further information may be obtained by contacting the following office:

Office of Graduate Admissions Yale University PO Box 208323 New Haven, CT 06520-8323 USA

Important Documents

• Graduate Student Handbook
• Genetics PhD Milestones & Deadlines
• Individual Career Development Plan Form
• Qualifying Committee Form
• 1st Thesis Committee Meeting Form
• 2nd+ Thesis Committee Mtg Form
• Genetics Advising Guidelines

Human Genetics and Genomics, PhD

School of medicine, ph.d. program.

The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics Training Program provides a training in all aspects of human genetics and genomics relevant to human biology, health and disease. 

Advances in human genetics and genomics continue at an astounding rate and increasingly they are being integrated into medical practice. The Human Genetics Program aims to educate highly motivated and capable students with the knowledge and experimental tools that will enable them to answer important questions at the interface between genetics and medicine. Ultimately, our trainees will be the leaders in delivering the promise of genetics to human health.

The overall objective of the Human Genetics program is to provide our students with a strong foundation in basic science by exposure to a rigorous graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and biostatistics as well as a core of medically-related courses selected to provide knowledge of human biology in health and disease. 

This program is also offered as training for medical students in the combined M.D./Ph.D. program.  Students apply to the combined program at the time of application to the M.D. program. (See section entitled Medical Scientist Training Program).

Research Facilities

Research laboratories are well equipped to carry out sophisticated research in all areas of genetics. The proximity to renown clinical facilities of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, including the Department of Genetic Medicine, and Oncology Center provides faculty and students with access to a wealth of material for study. Computer and library facilities are excellent. Laboratories involved in the Human Genetics Program span Johns Hopkins University; consequently supporting facilities are extensive.

Financial Aid

The program is supported by a training grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. These fellowships, which are restricted to United States citizens and permanent United States residents, cover tuition, health care insurance and a stipend during year one.  Once a student has joined a thesis lab, all financial responsibilities belong to the mentor.   Students are encouraged, however, to apply for fellowships from outside sources (e.g., the National Science Foundation, Fulbright Scholars Program, Howard Hughes Medical Institute) before entering the program.

Applicants for admission should show a strong academic foundation with coursework in biology, chemistry and quantitative analysis.   Applicants are encouraged to have exposure to lab research or to data science.  A bachelor's degree from a qualified college or university will be required for matriculation.  GREs are no longer required.

The Human Genetics site has up-to-date information on “ How to Apply .” For questions not addressed on these pages, please access the contact imformation listed on the program page: Human Genetics and Genomics Training Program | Johns Hopkins Department of Genetic Medicine (hopkinsmedicine.org) .

Program Requirements

The program includes the following required core courses: Advanced Topics in Human Genetics, Evolving Concept of the Gene, Molecular Biology and Genomics, Cell Structure and Dynamics, Computational Bootcamp,  Pathways and Regulation, Genomic Technologies, Rigor and Reproducibility in Research, and Systems, Genes and Mechanisms of Disease. Numerous elective courses are available and are listed under sponsoring departments.

Our trainees must take a minimum of four electives, one of which must provide computational/statistical training.

The HG program requires the “OPTIONS” Career Curriculum offered by the Professional Development and Career Office.  OPTIONS is designed to provide trainees with the skills for career building and the opportunity for career exploration as well as professional development training

Human Genetics trainees also take a two-week course in July at the Jackson Labs in Bar Harbor, Maine entitled "Human and Mammalian Genetics and Genomics: The McKusick Short Course" which covers the waterfront from basic principles to the latest developments in mammalian genetics. The faculty numbers about 50 and consists roughly in thirds of JAX faculty, Hopkins faculty and “guest” faculty comprising outstanding mammalian geneticists from other US universities and around the world.

The courses offered by the faculty of the program are listed below. All courses are open to graduate students from any university program as well as selected undergraduates with permission of the course director.

Trainees must complete three research rotations before deciding on their thesis lab.  They must also participate in the Responsible Conduct of Research sessions offered by the Biomedical Program; starting at year 3, students must attend at least two Research Integrity Colloquium lectures per year. 

Our trainees participate in weekly journal clubs, department seminars, monthly Science & Pizza presentations as well as workshops given twice a year on diversity, identity and culture.

At the end of the second year, trainees take their Doctoral Board Oral Examination.  Annual thesis committee meetings must be held following successful completion of this exam.

Average time for completion is 5.3 years.

Graduates from the Human Genetics program pursue careers in academia, medicine, industry, teaching, government, law, as well the private sector.  Our trainees are encouraged to explore the full spectrum of professional venues in which their training my provide a strong foundation. Driven by curiosity and a desire for excellence, our trainees stand out as leaders in the chosen arenas of professional life. They are supported in the development of their career plans by a program faculty and administration who are dedicated to their success, and by a myriad of support networks across the Johns Hopkins University, many of which are provided by the Professional Development Career Office of the School of Medicine.

• Graduate School
• Prospective Students
• Graduate Degree Programs

Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Genetics (PhD)

Canadian immigration updates.

Applicants to Master’s and Doctoral degrees are not affected by the recently announced cap on study permits. Review more details

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The UBC Department of Medical Genetics is an inspiring and productive community of scholars of genetics and genomics. It is an outstanding provider of knowledge, technical expertise, and compassionate care for our patients. Faculty members in the Department of Medical Genetics are at the forefront of their fields using cutting edge genetic, epigenetic, genomic, and bioinformatic methodologies to gain insight into diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative and neurological disorders, and other genetic diseases. Research is highly interactive and often involves local, national, and international collaborations which further enrich the research experience.

Individual labs conduct clinical and/or translational research and basic experimental research engaging a wide variety of approaches including the use of model organisms such as mice, flies (D. melanogaster), worms (C. elegans), and yeast (S. cerevisiae).

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

What makes the program unique?

The Mission of the UBC Department of Medical Genetics is to pursue basic and clinical research for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of genetic disease. Our goal is to be a world leader in the research, clinical practice, and teaching of Genetic Medicine. The Department is a respected source of information and advice to society. While focusing on key areas of genetic medicine, we view diversity of approach and techniques to be an essential strength of our Department.

The Medical Genetics program has a large interdisciplinary faculty spread across multiple institutes in Vancouver that perform research from basic science to translational clinical studies. The department is very collaborative and the ability to learn from such a diverse group was appealing to me.

Samantha Dziurdzik

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, program instructions.

Grade Point Average (GPA) – Canadian applicants:

• GPA calculation of Canadian degrees is based on all upper-level courses taken in the most recent, full time degree.

Grade Point Average (GPA) – international degrees:

• Check your COUNTRY of education for minimum GPA and length of degree program to determine if your credentials meet UBC admission requirements. GPA calculation is based on the final, overall standing (grade) achieved in the last completed degree. Final standing is determined from your school's grading system.

1) Check Eligibility

Minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.5

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Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Prior degree requirements.

MSc degree (focused on life sciences, biotechnology, etc.)

Course Requirements

Mandatory advanced-level courses in:

• Genetics and/or genomics

Strongly recommended advanced-level courses in one or more of the following:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Biostatistics (Statistics)
• Bioinformatics

Additional criteria:

• Relevant laboratory research experience
• Excellent references with assessment of research expertise and aptitude

Document Requirements

A complete application includes:

Application form

Letter of interest / intent (1 page)

Curriculum Vitae

References (3)

TOEFL or IELTS test scores – if applicable

Your application will not be reviewed, and therefore be rejected if your OVERALL AND COMPONENT test scores are below the required Medical Genetics minimum scores. There will be no exceptions. 

Official post-secondary transcripts; and degree certificates (international students)

• Unofficial transcripts, web transcripts and poor-quality scans are not acceptable. Do not include high school transcripts.
• Each transcript must be scanned as a single PDF document and MUST include the grading key.

Other Requirements

Successful applicants meet and often exceed the admissions and pre-requisite requirements:

• Typically have relevant, independent, multi-month (wet or dry) laboratory research experience;
• Typically have excellent, detailed reference letters with assessment of applicant's research expertise and aptitude by direct research supervisors, not just from course instructors;
• Often have won awards and/or published journal articles and/or presented posters or platform presentations and/or attended professional meetings and/or volunteered for science-related events (outreach, etc.)

2) Meet Deadlines

3) prepare application, transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Genetics (PhD)

SEPTEMBER INTAKE - MSc and PhD Applicants:

• Supervisor commitment is not required by the application deadline (i.e. when submitting the online application form)
• Applicants who are deemed admissible will be notified, and then must secure the commitment of a research supervisor to receive an offer of admission to the UBC Medical Genetics Graduate Program.

JANUARY INTAKE – PhD Applicants Only:

• The Medical Genetics Graduate Program Office will open January applications only by request to PhD applicants who meet grade point average (GPA) and TOEFL/IELTS (if applicable) requirements and who have received a written commitment from a Medical Genetics Research Supervisor at the time of application.

Citizenship Verification

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Research Information

Research highlights.

See Medical Genetics website for up-to-date articles featuring faculty research.

Research Focus

Research in the Department of Medical Genetics covers the study of human genetics with areas of focus in mammalian development, regulation of gene expression, genetic diseases due to single gene or complex inheritance, birth defects, reproduction, cancer, immunology, genomics, bioinformatics, ethics and population health.

Research Areas of Expertise:

• Cancer Genetics & Genomics
• Clinical Genetics, Genetic Counselling, Ethics & Policy
• Developmental Genetics & Birth Defects
• DNA Repair & Genome Stability
• Epigenetics, Epigenomics & Gene Regulation
• Genetic Epidemiology & Population Genetics
• Genomics & Bioinformatics
• Immunogenetics
• Neuroscience & Neurodegenerative Disease Genetics
• Pharmacogenomics
• Proteomics Stem Cells & Gene Therapy

Program Components

Medical Genetics Rotation Program: MSc and PhD applicants who have applied for the September-start, and who are highest ranked by the Medical Genetics Admissions Committee, will be offered the opportunity to join the Medical Genetics Rotation Program. The four top-ranked applicants are offered positions will also receive one-year Rotation Program Awards. Rotation Program students rotate through three different laboratories before choosing a final, thesis lab. Rotations are for nine-weeks each, from September to March. The Rotation Program is open to Canadians, Permanent Residents of Canada, and international applicants.

Medical Genetics Graduate Program students are encouraged to volunteer their leadership skills and talents to science-related departmental and community events and projects. There are many volunteer opportunities available through the University, at students’ research facilities, and in the local community. The Departmental student organization, the Medical Genetics Graduate Student Society (MGGSA), plans annual departmental events such as September Welcome and Research Day as well as on-going academic and social events.

Research Facilities

Medical Genetics graduate student training takes place at multiple state-of-the-art facilities, representing a diverse collection of training environments. These include several centres on the UBC Point Grey Campus (e.g. Life Sciences Centre, Brain Research Centre, Michael Smith Laboratories) and off-campus (e.g Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics,Terry Fox Laboratory at the BC Cancer Agency, etc.). Available research services and facilities include: animal modeling, biobanking, bioanalyzer, bioinformatics, DNA sequencing, flow cytometry, genotyping and gene expression, histology and imaging, transgenic facility, support to perform biostatistics, clinical trials, data management and access to health research and evaluation services.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

Stipend Amount and Duration:

The recommended minimum yearly stipend for full-time Medical Genetics thesis-based graduate students (Canadian and international) is:

PhD: $28,000

New and current doctoral students at UBC receive the President's Academic Excellence Inititiative PhD Award (PAEI) tuition award. International doctoral students also receive the International Tuition Award (ITA).The student pays any remaining tuition from their stipend.The stipend may come from an independent studentship award and/or from the Research Supervisor's research grant.

Admission to the Medical Genetics Graduate Program normally includes a commitment from the Supervisor to ensure that each student is supported to the recommended funding level. Exceptions to this policy may be granted under unusual circumstances. Financial support from personal resources is not acceptable as “funding” for incoming students in the Medical Genetics Graduate Program.

The duration of the annual stipend is normally two years for an MSc student and four years for a PhD student. After the two-year MSc and four-year PhD point, continued funding is at the discretion of the Supervisor. The Supervisor should inform their student in writing (with a copy to the Medical Genetics Graduate Program office) at least six months prior to the end-date of the student's stipend.

Funding depends both on satisfactory academic and research progress, as determined by the Student’s Supervisory Committee, and on the Research Supervisor's continued grant support. Termination of funding for other justifiable reasons must be approved by a majority of the Medical Genetics Graduate Advisory Committee.

University and External Awards:

Medical Genetics Graduate Program students receive funding from various sources; not all students will receive the same amount. Students receive a stipend which may come from an independent studentship award and/or from the Research Supervisor's research grant. If a student wins an award, their supervisor will top up their stipend.

Competitive Scholarships: National Science & Engineering Council (NSERC) & Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR); UBC Affiliated Fellowships; Medical Genetics Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF).

Other UBC awards: Students may qualify for building-specific and research-specific awards.

Average Funding

• 9 students received Teaching Assistantships. Average TA funding based on 9 students was $5,309.
• 21 students received Research Assistantships. Average RA funding based on 21 students was $15,833.
• 5 students received Academic Assistantships. Average AA funding based on 5 students was $4,135.
• 26 students received internal awards. Average internal award funding based on 26 students was $11,242.
• 8 students received external awards. Average external award funding based on 8 students was $24,333.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Outcomes

53 students graduated between 2005 and 2013: 1 is in a non-salaried situation; for 4 we have no data (based on research conducted between Feb-May 2016). For the remaining 48 graduates:

Sample Employers in Higher Education

Sample employers outside higher education, sample job titles outside higher education, phd career outcome survey, career options.

The PhD program in Medical Genetics is a research-based, thesis-based program which generally takes five to six years to complete. Graduates find employment in the public and private sector, and also pursue further studies in the field of Medical Genetics. Following is a brief sample of occupations that our graduates are pursuing:

• Assistant Professor / Associate Clinical Professor, etc.
• Principal Investigator
• Canada Research Chair
• Post-doctoral Fellow
• Laboratory Genetics and Genomics Postdoctoral Fellow
• Fellow of the Canadian College of Medical Genetics
• Postdoctoral Clinical Laboratory Fellow
• Diagnostics Laboratory Manager
• Medical Doctor
• Clinical Molecular Geneticist and Cytogeneticist
• Research Program Manager
• Online Marketing Coordinator
• Scientific Sales Representative
• Research and Development Scientist

Alumni on Success

Job Title Scientist

Employer The Hospital for Sick Children

Job Title Teaching Professor/ Affiliate Professor of Teaching

Employer University of Victoria/ University of British Columbia

Steven Maltby

Job Title Research Academic

Employer Hunter Medical Research Institute & The University of Newcastle

Obi Griffith

Job Title Assistant Professor

Employer Washington University School of Medicine

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Genetics (PhD). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion rates & times, upcoming doctoral exams, monday, 17 june 2024 - 9:00am - room 203, friday, 28 june 2024 - 12:30pm - 1312, life sciences institute, 2350 health sciences mall.

• Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

• Arbour, Laura (northern and aboriginal health issues as they pertain to genetics)
• Austin, Jehannine (Clinical genetics (except cancer genetics); genetic counseling; genetics services; mental health)
• Birol, Inanc (bioinformatics, computational biology, genomics, transcriptome analysis, next generation sequencing, cancer, Bioinformatics, sequence assembly, transcriptomics, gene regulation networks, high throughput informatics for big data)
• Brooks-Wilson, Angela (Bioinformatics; Clinical oncology; Genetic medicine; Genomics; cancer families; cancer genetics; genetic susceptibility; human genetics; longevity; Super seniors)
• Brown, Carolyn Janet (Bioinformatics; Clinical oncology; Genetic medicine; Genomics; Health counselling; Applied Genetics; Chromosomes: Structure / Organization; DNA methylation; Epigenetic control of gene expression; Gene Regulation and Expression; Genes escaping X-chromosome inactivation; Long non-coding RNAs; X-chromosome inactivation; XIST RNA)
• Brunham, Liam (Medical, health and life sciences; Lipids; Genetics; Pharmacogenomics; Cardiovascular diseases)
• Carleton, Bruce (Pediatrics, clinical pharmacology, outcomes research, drug policy evaluation, health services research, drug safety and adverse drug reactions)
• Conibear, Elizabeth (Other basic medicine and life sciences; Protein trafficking in cell biology; Molecular genetics; Functional genomics; Membranes; Enzymes and Proteins; Vesicle Trafficking; Molecular Genetics; Neurodegenerative diseases; Protein Palmitoylation; Cell Signaling and Cancer)
• Dennis, Jessica (Bioinformatics; Genetic medicine; Administrative health data; Complex Trait Genetics; Electronic health records; Epidemiology; genetic epidemiology; Genetics of Neurological and Psychiatric Diseases; Machine Learning; Mental Health and Psychopathology in Children and Youth; Precision Health; statistical genetics)
• Elliott, Alison (Other health sciences; rare disease; genomics; Congenital Malformations; Skeletal and limb anomalies; Genetic Counselling; Health services implementation science)
• Evgin, Laura
• Friedman, Jan Marshall (Other clinical medicine; Genetic medicine; Genomics; Health counselling; Application of whole genome sequencing to diagnose genetic disease; Birth defects epidemiology; Clinical genomics; Developmental Genetics; Genetics and Heredity; Neurofibromatosis)
• Gibson, William (Genetic medicine; Genetic Diseases; Chromosomes: Structure / Organization; Epigenetics)
• Hayden, Michael (Genetic medicine; Health counselling; Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Diabetes; Disease progression; Drug development; Gene Therapy; Genetic Diseases; Huntington disease; Neurodegenerative diseases; Neurodegenerative disorders)
• Hieter, Philip (Molecular biology of eukaryotic chromosome transmission )
• Holt, Robert (Immunogenetics, Metagenomics - Infectious agents in Cancer, Cancer Genomes, Neurobiology, DNA Sequencing)
• Hoodless, Pamela (Computational cell biology; Cancer; Genomics; Medical and biomedical engineering; Nucleic acids studies; Developmental Genetics; Embryology; Embryonic Development; Epigenetics; Heart Valve / Valvular Diseases; Heart valve formation; Liver; Liver development; Stem Cells and Organogenesis; transcriptional regulation)
• Huntsman, David (hereditary cancer, molecular pathology, cancer biomarkers, Pancreas centre)
• Jefferies, Wilfred Arthur (Iron transport molecules)
• Jiang, Xiaoyan (Cancer drug development and therapeutics)
• Jones, Steven J (Bioinformatics, genome science, mutations, cancer progression)
• Kobor, Michael (Biochemistry; Bioinformatics; Genetic medicine; Genomics; Chromatin Biology; Epigenetics; molecular biology; Social Epigenetics)
• Langlois, Sylvie (Studies of genotype/phenotype correlations in single gene disorders; Validations of genomic tools for the study of mental retardation and prenatal screening for aneuploidy; Outcome studies related to prenatal genetic screening)
• Lansdorp, Peter (Genetic medicine; Application of single cell Strand-seq in precision medicine; Applied Genetics; cellular aging; Cellular Degeneration; Cellular Division; Complex Trait Genetics; DNA replication, epigenetics and stem cells; Gene Regulation and Expression; Genetic Diseases; Stem Cells and Organogenesis; telomeres; Telomeres, genomic instability, aging and cancer)
• Leavitt, Blair (Genetic medicine; Neurosciences, biological and chemical aspects; Neurosciences, medical and physiological and health aspects; Alzheimer's disease; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis; Ataxia; Dementia; Experimental Therapeutics; Frontotemporal Dementia; Gene regulation; Gene Silencing and Gene Editing; Gene Therapy; Huntington disease; Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells; Medical Genetics; Mouse models of disease; Neurodegenerative diseases; Neurogenetics)

Doctoral Citations

Sample thesis submissions.

• Understanding the outliers : DNA methylation analyses of sex differences, X-chromosome inactivation, and maternal exposures in the human placenta
• Investigating and identifying genetic predictors for cisplatin-induced hearing loss and anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity
• The Caenorhabditis elegans nuclear hormone receptor NHR-49 functions in stress response pathway regulation
• Membrane contact site targeting and functions of Vps13 and related bridging lipid transporters
• Novel approaches for therapeutic modulation of gene expression in Huntington's disease
• Identification and functional analysis of the endosomal VINE complex in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
• Polycomb repressive complex 2 related syndromes : functional studies of human gene variants In Drosophila
• Therapeutic genome editing for the treatment of genetic diseases : testing the safety and effectiveness of CRISPR/Cas9 therapeutic base editing
• Deciphering H2A.Z-mediated transcriptional regulation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
• Discovery of HPV-associated genomic alterations in cervical cancer
• Characterization of the lympho-neutrophil/monocyte restriction process in human cells
• An investigation of the role of pharmacogenetics in the development and prevention of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity
• DNA damage induced SUMOylation regulates intranuclear protein quality control in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
• Detecting DNA methylation using nanopore sequencing : from genome-wide analysis to haplotype-resolved and parent-of-origin phasing
• Investigating the role of transcriptional coactivator MED15 in beta cell maturation

Related Programs

Same specialization.

• Master of Science in Medical Genetics (MSc)

Further Information

Specialization.

Faculty in Medical Genetics are at the forefront of their fields employing cutting edge genetic, epigenetic, genomic and bioinformatic methodologies to gain insight into diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative and neurological disorders, and other genetic diseases.

Areas of research Include:

• Clinical Genetics, Genetic Counselling and Ethics & Policy
• Developmental Genetics
• Neurogenetics & Neurodegenerative Disease Genetics
• Stem Cells & Gene Therapy

UBC Calendar

Program website, faculty overview, academic unit, program identifier, classification, supervisor search.

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

I was looking for professors that were asking questions I was interested in. It so happened that quite a few of them were affiliated with UBC and were part of the vibrant and supportive academic community here. UBC also offers many scholarships and fellowships to help fund your PhD which was very...

Sharri Cyrus

I wanted to ensure, that I would be a highly competitive candidate for future pursuits after my PhD. UBC fulfilled this requirement as being a top university in the world, with a reputation of research excellence. Additionally, I wanted to study in a place that would offer a new experience;...

Khair Mufti

UBC is one of the top universities for research and teaching in Canada and around world. As I wanted to unite my background in pharmacology with my research passion and experience in Genetics to pursue my doctoral research in Pharmacogenomics, I found that UBC provides an excellent opportunity to...

Kevin Jeffers

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Salaries for Medical Geneticist with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent

According to our 100% employer reported salary sources the median salary for a Medical Geneticist with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent is $82,915 - $87,833 . Please try our salary wizard to explore how other factors like location, Years of experience and number of direct reports can impact your base pay and bonus.

How to become a Geneticist: Degree, Requirements, Jobs and Salary

A geneticist is a professional or expert in genetic studies like the inheritance of traits, genes, DNA or chromosomes, who are PhD degree holders and can work in research, academics, healthcare and many other sectors. 

To understand the role of a geneticist, first, we need to learn about genetic science a bit! Genetic science or genetics, studies DNA, genes, chromosomes, mutations and other related things. 

It’s an interdisciplinary branch of science that conducts studies at a molecular level. Their experts usually work in laboratories and perform extensive research on a cell or DNA level. DNA- deoxyribose nucleic acid is a nucleic acid and a building block of life that decides every trait of us. And studying DNA reveals many things related to an organism. 

Genetic tools and techniques like a polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing and DNA microarray are used to study various parameters of a nucleic acid of either human, plant, animal or microorganism. 

Techniques of genetic science also utilized in clinical diagnosis and agriculture. A genetics graduate or doctorate expected to use their skills, expertise and experience to improve present knowledge. The present article is focused on the role of geneticist and what are the requirements to become one of them. 

Read more: PhD in Nursing- Eligibility Criteria, Admission, Process, Salary and Opportunities .

Definitions:

Phd in genetics: , doctorate in genetics: , jobs and opportunities: , salary and income:, subjects and syllabus: , role of a geneticist in forensic science: , role of a geneticist in human genetics: , how to become a geneticist, geneticist near me:, conclusion:, who is a geneticist .

A geneticist is a professional or an expert in genetic science that study the inheritance of traits, DNA and chromosomes. He or she is a specialist of an interdisciplinary part of science- genetics. 

They carry a higher degree in a related field, have experience and worked on techniques relevant to it. They have varied roles in their field depending on their expertise.

In medicine or medical science, a geneticist studies the genetics of a disease, its inheritance pattern and associated health problems practicing their advanced knowledge. Furthermore, they diagnose the conditions, perform genetic tests and interpret results. 

They find mutations related to the disease or congenital condition and try to find the inheritance pattern and likelihood of occurrence in the next generation. 

Geneticist studies epigenetic factors as well to know alterations associated with several common conditions, for example, studying genotypes associated with diabetes and its predispositions in population. 

In microbiology, they study microorganisms, their genetics and pathogenic activities. Scrutinizing microorganism’s evolution, life cycle and role in disease development can also be a part of the geneticist’s duty. 

Environmental geneticist studies gene-environment interactions, how genes turned “on” or “off” under the influence of certain environmental factors.  

Plant geneticist studies plant genetics, the inheritance patterns of various plant genes and plant disorders. Through their research knowledge, they conduct genetic engineering experiments and improves plant quality by altering plant DNA or genome. The objectives of plant research are to produce economically important plants.

Besides, geneticists also conduct genetic engineering experiments to treat disease, eliminate harmful genotypes and produce genetic medicines. 

A genetic counselor, the most important person in medical science helps people to understand various genetic conditions. Their role is to educate people, patients, doctors or researchers on particular genetic conditions. 

A geneticist is an expert in genetics, a doctorate degree holder and has the hands-on experience to study DNA, genes or chromosomes and finds mutations associated with the disease using genetic tools and techniques.

a geneticist is an expert who designs, explains, suggest, performs and interpret the genetic test or DNA test.

Someone who studies genetics (DNA, gene, chromosome or genome) with best of their knowledge is known as geneticist.

[Read more: List of doctorate degrees in Science, Fine arts, Commerce and Computer .]

Education requirements: 

Any science graduate can be a geneticist. However, applicants must have a master’s degree in their relevant field. As it is an interdisciplinary field of science, any biology graduate can apply for a geneticist degree. 

To be a geneticist one must need to have a PhD degree in genetics or a doctorate in the same. Note that some universities only allow genetic degree holders for awarding doctorates.

Besides, the applicant must have an excellent research background- publications, research articles and dissertation. MPhil along with the master’s degree also taken into consideration for awarding the degree. 

As we said any biology or science student can apply for PhD in genetics, although, graduation in cell biology, biotechnology, microbiology or genetics are highly recommended. 

The process of PhD admission in genetics is equivalent to other PhD degrees, the candidate needs to complete the course work after admitting into the degree followed by extensive wet and dry lab research. 

A candidate researches their topic by conducting experiments to check various hypotheses and publish their research in the form of a dissertation or thesis. Prospective candidate needs to defend their thesis at the terminal of the degree. 

The doctorate in genetics is a similar kind of degree much like the PhD in genetics, despite, an expert can get a doctorate in genetics degree. They prepare themself for unlimited research or diagnosis. They either are practitioners or researchers having to work for improving present knowledge. 

The requirements for getting the present degree is same as PhD in genetics, note that research background of applicant and their previous experience should be taken in to account. 

The dissertation or thesis viva aren’t commonly required here. 

Further reads:

• PhD Horizons: Exploring Career Paths Post-Doctorate
• 8 Criteria To Select The Best PhD Coaching
• 20 Amazing Websites and/or Resources For PhD Students
• What is Scientific Writing? + Features + Examples
• Determination is the Motivation– A PhD story of Khushbu Trivedi

There are plenty of various options for a doctor of genetics or geneticist are available in which research and academics are so common. They can start their career by entering into any research organization or academics. 

They also works in various research laboratories, as a professor, tutor, in hospitals and diagnostics. 

In academics, they can work as a lecturer, professor or dean of the institute where they teach students, prapapers researcher and PhD candidates and teach various techniques. 

Meanwhile, they can conduct research projects as well, and strengthen their background, avail grants for the institute and provide knowledge in the science fraternity by publishing their work. 

Medical, healthcare and diagnostic are also some of the options for the medical geneticists. They can work as a scientist, genetic counselor, genetic expert or diagnostic expert. 

They treat and diagnose genetic disorders as well as monitor predispositions and progress of cancer as well. Infectious disorders are also studied by them.

As a scientist, geneticists can work in biotechnology, environmental science, microbiology, ecology, physics, chemistry and computer field. Some most popular positions of geneticist and their roles are explained here: 

Genetic expert: 

Advice a genetic test, tech various techniques and conducts research to improve knowledge in genetics. 

Medical geneticist: 

Study DNA, genes, mutations or chromosomes in order to identify the health conditions or disease associated with it. The medical geneticist also performs diagnostic tests for various disorders. They study the inheritance of traits. 

Plant geneticist/ plant breeders: 

Plant genetic experts experiment on plant genome, alter it, replace genes, insert ploidies to produce various economically important and biotic/abiotic stress-resistant plant species. 

Animal geneticist: 

An animal geneticist is a specialized veterinary scientist that also experiment animal genome to study disease, mutations, genes and to find out their evolutionary relations. 

Clinical scientists: 

Clinical scientist in genomics, immunology, microbiology or endocrinology studies various disorders, disease or problems associated with it and find out their genetic causes, if any. 

Research scientist: 

Research scientist performs works on various research projects of organizations using their skills and techniques. Their goal is to find knowledge and avail grants and financial aids for the organization. 

Amazing article: What is DSc- Doctor of Science?- Process, Requirements, Eligibilities, Duration, Subject & Syllabus, Jobs & Opportunities and Salary .

Genetics is the most specialized field of science, less students choose to go. A geneticist can earn a decent and handsome salary or earn more than a biologist, by getting expertise in a specific technique. 

On average, a geneticist can earn between $34,590 to $1,25,000 in the USA. Here are some of the salary comparisons for various posts.

 Note that the average salary may vary based on the institute, organization, company, research background of a scientist, publication, expertise and experience of the geneticist. 

Where can they work? 

• Genetic expert or geneticist at the hospital 
• Genetic counselor 
• Independent genetic counselor or expert 
• Biotechnology industries
• Plant genetic research 
• Plant breeding 
• Animal husbandry and veterinary 
• Bacteriology 
• Diagnostics 
• Seed technologies 
• Food industries 
• Microbiology laboratories 
• Environmental science 
• Healthcare 
• Biophysics 
• Bioinformatics 
• Biochemistry 
• Immunology 
• Agriculture and horticulture 
• Plant tissue culture 
• Medical research 
• Clinical trial and research 

Common subjects and syllabus for genetics are explained here: 

Geneticists are in demands in recent times, organizations need, plant, animal, microbial, human or clinical geneticist. One can get a job at any organization easily, however, one of the most important roles of a geneticist is in forensic science. 

Forensic scientist/ expert or geneticist performs a genetic test for criminal verification, crime scene investigation, parental and paternity verification and various other purposes. 

DNA is a unique thing for a person, two people don’t have a similar DNA much life their fingerprint, in addition to this, DNA is present in almost all type of cells. 

By taking a sample from the crime scene, criminal or target, the geneticist identifies the suspect. The test, known as the DNA or gene test performed from the sample. 

Samples and suspects’ DNA are matched to get the results or link. The forensic DNA test is one of the most accurate, reliable and trusted DNA tests. 

• Crime scene investigation 
• Criminal verification
• Idenfication of suspect 
• Paternal verification 
• Maternal verification 
• Idenfication of person 
• Testing for child custody 

One of the most growing fields of medical science, in recent trends, is human genetics which focuses on the study of genetics and genomics of human and related disorders. 

The aim of human genetics is to apply the knowledge of genetics to study, investigate and diagnose inherited genetic dirsoders using genetic techniques. 

The human genetic expert screen genetic conditions, postnatal as well as prenatal, diagnose it, finds associated alterations, studies predisposition of genetic disorders or cancer, finds new genetic conditions or treat it using genetic engineering techniques. 

They insert or remove the faulty or mutated DNA or gene and replace it with a healthy one by using various gene transfer techniques. They also find the prevalence of genetic disorders in order to prevent them. 

One geneticist can choose human genetics as their research subject, get an excellent position in research, hospitals or organizations and earn a decent amount of money. 

Now coming to the critical question of the present topic, how to become a geneticist? Let me first tell you that any biology graduate can apply to get a PhD degree in genetics, even, medicine students too.

To be an expert in genetics, first, you need good grades in graduation, a master’s degree and/ or MPhil degree in the related field. Graduates from Biology, botany, zoology, microbiology, plant physiology, biotechnology, environmental science, biostatistics, animal biology, cell biology, molecular biology and other allied science students can appear.

Only a doctorate degree holder is considered as a “geneticist” or “genetic expert” henceforth, in the next step, the candidate needs to get a PhD degree. for that, they need a master’s degree and completion of the entrance exam.

After getting admission in PhD, the candidate needs to complete their PhD or research work as like other PhD’s. They have to complete coursework, write a thesis, publish their research and defend their thesis. After getting a doctorate the candidate becomes a geneticist.

Process of becoming geneticist:

• Step 1: Completing Graduation in biology or related applied science
• Step 2: Completing a master’s degree or master’s dissertation and MPhil
• Step 3: publishing research and making a research background strong
• Step 4: completing a common entrance test for PhD or doctorate
• Step 5: cracking PhD interview
• Step 6: appearing into PhD and completing coursework
• Step 7: writing the doctorate thesis or dissertation
• Step 8: publishing the research or research article
• Step 9: completing PhD or defending the thesis
• Step 10: getting substantial experience in the genetics

More read: PhD Application Process and How to Write a PhD Application .

Genetics is one of the most uncommon and untraditional fields of biology, though very demanding. You need to master some skills and get a doctorate to be a geneticist. Geneticists from some reputed universities can even earn more money, reward and honor worldwide.

Watsons and Crick are two most popular name (who discovered the molecular structure of DNA) contributed tones in genetics after Mendel.

What is a geneticist?

A geneticist is a doctorate degree holder, an expert in genetics and an experienced person who studies the inheritance of traits, DNA, genes and chromosomes. Their role is to research, find new knowledge and provide healthcare. They perform various genetics tests on humans, animals and plants to identify them and find mutations.

What are the job options for geneticist?

A geneticist can get job in academics, research as well as diagnostics. They can work as a professor or lecturer in academics, scientist or researcher in animal husbandry, human diagnostics, healthcare virology, bacteriology, environmental science, plant science and agriculture. They can even work in forensic as forensic genetic experts.

What does a geneticist do? 

A geneticist, who is an expert to study genetics does do DNA tests, gene or chromosome tests to find out alterations in the DNA, gene or chromosomes of an organism. They find mutations associated with the disease and use that data to prevent genetic disorders. They counsel patients to educate patients or students on genetics or disease.

How much does a geneticist earn? 

The average salary of a geneticist is around $34,000 to $1,25,000 per year or 3,00,000 to 8,00,000 INR in India and United States, respectively. Although it may differ based on their experience, expertise and place they work.

Is a geneticist doctor? 

Yes, if they have a PhD or professional doctorate degree in genetics.

What degree required to become a geneticist? 

Any biology or medicine graduates or students or related applied science subjects can be a geneticist. A minimum of master degree and a doctorate degree is required to become a geneticist.

What kind of doctor is a geneticist?

The geneticist a professional doctorate or PhD degree holder or sometimes a doctor of medicine degree holder.

—-End of the article—-

Dr. Tushar Chauhan is a Scientist, Blogger and Scientific-writer. He has completed PhD in Genetics. Dr. Chauhan is a PhD coach and tutor.

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Dr Tushar Chauhan

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Research Geneticist salary

Average research geneticist salary, how much does a research geneticist make.

The average research geneticist salary in the United States is $75,323. Research geneticist salaries typically range between $51,000 and $110,000 yearly. The average hourly rate for research geneticists is $36.21 per hour. Research geneticist salary is impacted by location, education, and experience. Research geneticists earn the highest average salary in California.

Where can a Research Geneticist earn more?

Research geneticist salary estimates from across the web, average research geneticist salary by state.

The highest-paying states for research geneticists are California, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. The lowest average research geneticist salary states are North Dakota, Mississippi, and South Carolina.

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Highest paying states for research geneticists

Highest paying cities for research geneticists.

The highest-paying cities for research geneticists are Hayward, CA, Kailua, HI, and Hendersonville, TN.

Research Geneticist salary details

A research geneticist's salary ranges from $51,000 a year at the 10th percentile to $110,000 at the 90th percentile.

What is a research geneticist's salary?

Highest paying research geneticist jobs.

The highest paying types of research geneticists are medical science liaison, principal scientist, and senior scientist.

Top companies hiring research geneticists now:

• Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Jobs (4)
• Federal Aviation Administration Jobs (2)
• Hubbard Jobs (1)
• US Meat Animal Research Center Jobs (8)
• U.S. Department of Education Jobs (2)

Which companies pay research geneticists the most?

Research geneticist salaries at Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and PIC (Pig Improvement Company) are the highest-paying according to our most recent salary estimates. In addition, the average research geneticist salary at companies like Mendel Biotechnology and US Meat Animal Research Center are highly competitive.

Wage gap by gender, race and education

Research geneticist salary trends.

The average research geneticist salary has risen by $12,659 over the last ten years. In 2014, the average research geneticist earned $62,664 annually, but today, they earn $75,323 a year. That works out to a 14% change in pay for research geneticists over the last decade.

Compare research geneticist salaries for cities or states with the national average over time.

Average research geneticist salary over time

Compare research geneticist salaries for individual cities or states with the national average.

Research Geneticist salary by year

Recently added research geneticist salaries, research geneticist salary faqs, what state pays research geneticists the most, how do i know if i'm being paid fairly as a research geneticist.

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