Graduate Program

The Translational Plant Sciences Center (TPSC) graduate program allows students interested in pursuing a Ph.D degree in related disciplines to work in a wide variety of research areas ranging from plant genomics to disease resistance, metabolic engineering, bioproduction and bioprocessing, and forest biotechnology. Our first year rotations program is unique in that it provides an opportunity for degree candidates to study with up to 4 different laboratories of interest before choosing a home lab. The program of study includes selections from a range of course offerings, tailored to the background and interests of each student. At the end of the first or second semester of enrollment, a permanent advisor is selected in whose laboratory the dissertation research will be conducted.

TPSC Recruitment Event

The Translational Plant Sciences Center's interdisciplinary graduate education program is supported by the Virginia Tech Graduate School and Fralin Life Sciences Institute. To apply, visit the graduate school admissions site here. To meet TPSC faculty and current graduate students virtually, and learn more about the program, attend our Recruitment Event on November 21, 2024. 

For priority consideration candidates are encouraged to complete their application by January 6, 2025. Accepted students will be invited to join Translational Plant Sciences Center affiliated faculty, students, and staff on campus for the annual TPSC Symposium February 21, 2025. 

Completed applications should include:

• Unofficial transcripts (Official paper transcripts required upon admission)
• Three references
• Statement of Interest
• Resume / CV
• TOEFL (International students only; minimum total score 90)
• GRE not required