Master of Science in Plant Pathology - Fungal and Oomycete Biology

Fungi and oomycetes are among the most important eukaryotic microbes on Earth. Fungi play major roles in ecosystem processes, from the degradation of organic matter and nutrient cycling to plant symbioses and as pathogens of plants, animals, and humans. Oomycetes are among the most diverse and widespread group of parasites in terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Parasitic lifestyles occur throughout the oomycete phylogeny, with hosts ranging from plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates to fungi, algae, and other microbes. Fungi and oomycetes are the most destructive pathogens of plants and play a central role in the development of plant pathology as a discipline. The Fungal and Oomycete Biology program serves as the center of eukaryotic microbiology on the Cornell campus. Research and teaching activities are focused on molecular and cellular biology of host associations and development, population biology, ecology and evolution, and epidemiology and management of fungi and oomycetes in natural and agricultural ecosystems.

Interests, experience, and goals: The application requires an Academic Statement of Purpose describing (within 1000 words) the substantive research questions you are interested in pursuing during your graduate studies and why, and explaining how our program would help you achieve your intellectual and professional goals. Additionally, detail your academic background and any training, research, or work experience you have had that you believe has prepared you for our program (see below). Within your statement, please also identify specific faculty members whose research interests align with your own interests (applicants are encouraged to correspond with faculty of interest prior to applying).
Related work and/or research experience: Experience in a work or research environment can be valuable preparation for graduate studies but it is not required.
Prior academic achievements: Applicants should have, or expect to receive soon, a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) with broad training in the biological and physical sciences. Though some deficiencies can be made up through coursework during the program, applicants are best prepared when they have introductory-level knowledge of biochemistry, calculus, chemistry, genetics, microbiology, organic chemistry, physics, plant biology, microbiology, and statistics. Computer programming may also be beneficial. Course work or experience in plant pathology is desirable but is not required. Transcripts of undergraduate and graduate studies (if applicable) should be submitted with the application. If necessary, an unofficial transcript may be submitted with the initial application, however, an official transcript will be required prior to matriculation.
Personal motivation and potential to contribute to the community: The application requires a separate, Personal Statement. In it, please describe how your personal background and experiences influenced your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Additionally, provide insight on your potential to contribute to a community of inclusion, belonging, and respect where scholars representing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn and innovate productively and positively together.
Letters of recommendation: Three letters of recommendation from faculty members or employers who can assess the applicant's academic potential for a graduate program are required.
TOEFL iBT - 77 (Writing 20, Listening 15, Reading 20, Speaking 22)
IELTS - 7.0 or higher