Admission Requirements
We are looking for students with previous research experience who are motivated and devoted to research.
In addition to degree requirements outlined below, the minimum academic requirements to apply to the graduate program are normally an introductory survey courses in biochemistry and molecular biology, two advanced courses in biochemistry/molecular biology topics, and a laboratory course. Independent research experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, computational biology, biophysics and/or computational biology is strongly encouraged. Given recent social distancing measures which may have impacted the ability of students to gain wet lab experience, the admissions committee will at this time consider applicants with limited bench research experience.
Please Note: There are several paths offered through the graduate program. Most applicants with an undergraduate degree will apply to the Masters level and will either complete their MSc or later transfer to the PhD program. Applicants with exceptionally strong undergraduate records may request Direct Entry into the PhD program, and should contact the Graduate Program Administrator, Carrie Harber, prior to applying. Students with a prior completed MSc may apply to the PhD stream and may wish to contact Carrie Harber for further information. See also our Program Overview and FAQ.
Once you have confirmed you meet the minimum requirements, please review Application Deadlines and How to Apply.
Applicants from Canadian Universities
We consider applications from students who have achieved at least a B+ average in their last two years of study in an honours or specialist BSc program in biochemistry, molecular biology, or cell biology, as well as students with strong academic credentials in honours/specialist programs in related disciplines, including physics, chemistry, and computer science. Applications from students with MSc degrees in these areas will also be considered for admission. Applications from outstanding students in other programs or subject areas will also be considered. Applications that do not meet the minimum requirements will not be considered.
Applicants from Universities Outside Canada and International Students
Please note: we are only accepting International students for PhD or Direct-entry PhD. We are unable to accept International students for the MSc program at this time.
Degree Requirements
Applicants educated outside of Canada require a degree equivalent to that of a four-year Canadian Honours/Specialist degree. Please check here for country-specific credential equivalencies. In some cases, this may be an MSc degree. It should be in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, or in a related subject area before being considered for entry into our graduate program.
English Language Proficiency (TOEFL/ IELTS Test)
If the language of instruction at your university is not English, we require an English language test. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application. Please review equivalent English-language facility test for minimal acceptable scores and exemptions.
Faculty Sponsor
International applicants (students who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada) need to find a sponsor before they submit their application. A sponsor is a Faculty member who provides a commitment of placement in the event that you are not able to secure a placement in a different lab after the rotation process.
When reaching out to Faculty members you should include a copy of your CV, Letter of Intent, and Transcripts. Once you have secured a sponsor, please inform the sponsor that they must submit a Sponsorship Form to Carrie Harber.In your letter of intent you are required to include why you are interested in pursuing a PhD in a particular lab.
*Exception - Students who received their BSc degree from U of T*