Ph.D. in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics

Ph.D. Program

Computational Biology and Bioinformatics has been thriving at USC since 1982, when Michael Waterman joined the Departments of Mathematics and Biological Sciences. Since that time the group has grown to include 8 professors and numerous research students and postdoctoral associates.

Our approach to research and training in the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics area has biology as its essential motivation. An important aspect involves problem formulation, an interactive process that involves collaborations between biologists and mathematical scientists. Once a problem is formulated, the solution often involves a blend of statistics and algorithms. This is why the group has had close associations with three departments: Mathematics, Biological Sciences, and Computer Science. Several of the faculties have joint appointments in these departments, as well as in the Keck School of Medicine.

Students wanting a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics or Computer Science with an emphasis in computational biology may enroll directly in the appropriate PhD programs. These students must satisfy the relevant degree requirements of their home department, in addition to a number of additional courses (chosen in consultation with faculty advisors) that ensure appropriate breadth in biology, computer science and mathematics.
In Fall 2003 we started a PhD program in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, based in the Molecular and Computational Biology section of the Department of Biological Sciences.