Acquiring a PhD in Bioinformatics allows you to enjoy a smooth career journey in this interdisciplinary field. A PhD makes you stand out as an expert in the field which helps you secure high-paying positions. The best PhDs in Bioinformatics degree programs at top private and public universities can help you become a leading professional in the field.
If you’re wondering how to begin pursuing a bioinformatics PhD, this guide will cover 10 of the best academic programs available, as well as the funding opportunities and admissions process of each. We’ll also explore exciting bioinformatics jobs and the top PhD in Bioinformatics salary opportunities that await graduates.
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What Is a PhD in Bioinformatics?
A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics refers to an interdisciplinary, post-graduate program that integrates the real-world experience of research and applying computer technology to the analysis and management of biological data. PhD in Bioinformatics degrees teach students to organize data from multiple experiment databases, create new algorithms, and use software and mathematical modeling to interpret biological information.
Advanced bioinformatics PhD students gain the knowledge, computational skills, and scientific skills necessary to apply the latest technology to biological data. In addition, they leverage different techniques to find solutions to diseases.
How to Get Into a Bioinformatics PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for a PhD in Bioinformatics program include a 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a current resume, official transcripts, and a master’s degree in a relevant field. Some universities will require GRE exam scores and approval by the department. Certain universities will accept students with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
All international and English as a second language-speaking (ESL) students will need to submit proof of English proficiency in the form of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam scores or an equivalent proficiency exam. Admission processes will vary by school, so you should carefully examine the school’s requirements before submitting your application.
PhD in Bioinformatics Admission Requirements
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Letters of recommendation
- Relevant master’s or bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- GRE exam scores, depending on school
- Updated resume
- TOEFL exam or equivalent for international and ESL students
Bioinformatics PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Bioinformatics?
It can be very hard to get into a PhD program in Bioinformatics because it is a highly specialized field that often requires real-world experience. Depending on the university you apply to, you will encounter different acceptance rates. You can learn how competitive the program is by searching for acceptance or admission rates on the program’s website.
Nevertheless, if you’re an outstanding student who achieved exceptional grades in a relevant master’s or bachelor’s program, you can be sure it will be easy to find an opportunity for acceptance in most universities.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
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Best PhDs in Bioinformatics: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado State University | PhD in Biological Science | No |
| Columbia University | PhD in Biomedical Informatics | No |
| Cornell University | PhD in Computational Biology | No |
| Johns Hopkins University | PhD in Pathobiology | No |
| Northern Arizona University | PhD in Informatics and Computing | No |
| University of Arizona | PhD in Biostatistics | No |
| University of California, LA | PhD in Bioinformatics | No |
| University of Illinois, Chicago | PhD in Bioinformatics | No |
| University of Miami | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| The University of Utah | PhD in Molecular Biology | No |
Best Universities for Bioinformatics PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics
The best universities for bioinformatics PhDs include the University of Utah, John Hopkins University, the University of California, Cornell University, Columbia University, and the University of Miami. If you’re looking for a top university with graduate bioinformatics degree programs, read below for details on each of the best programs available.
Colorado State University is a public academic institution founded in 1870. Located just under two hours from Denver, CSU has eight colleges that provide numerous graduate programs to over 3,500 graduate and doctoral students.
PhD in Biological Science
Students of this biological science program will learn basic and applied biological research and have the choice of specializing in bioinformatics. To complete this 72-credit program, you will need the BZ 779 Dissertation, which has a minimum of 32 credits. Prospective students should contact the department advising faculty to match with an advisor for successful admission.
PhD in Biological Science Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $601.90/credit (in state); $1,475.80/credit (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, Marshall and Rhodes grants, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Graduate Scholarship
PhD in Biological Science Admission Requirements
- Master's or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Updated resume
- Statement of purpose
- Approval by the admission board
Founded in 1754 by King George II, Columbia University was initially known as King's College. It is the oldest higher learning institute in New York and the fifth oldest in the US. The private university offers numerous PhD programs, including programs in art history, astronomy, chemical physics, and biological sciences.
PhD in Biomedical Informatics
Columbia University's bioinformatics PhD program concentrates on courses such as clinical informatics, bioinformatics, public health informatics, and clinical research informatics. The degree requirements include 60 credit units in coursework, two specialization courses, an ethics unit, a research seminar, and two classes of teaching assistant work.
PhD in Biological Science Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: 5 - 7%
- Tuition and Fees: $25,248/semester
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, fellowships, and National Library of Medicine funding
PhD in Biological Science Admission Requirements
- GRE exam scores
- Bachelor's or master’s degree in a relevant field
- Official transcripts
- Writing supplement
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
Cornell University is a private research university founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickinson White. Cornell offers numerous fully-funded PhD degrees, including programs in management, animal science, applied mathematics, molecular and cell biology, and astronomy and space sciences.
PhD in Computational Biology
This PhD in Computational Biology program blends mathematics, technology, and biology to train students to produce computational models of biological and genomic data. Students of this interdisciplinary program are taught and advised by faculty from 16 different fields and explore topics such as neuroscience, protein structure and databases, and biomechanics.
PhD in Computational Biology Overview
- Program Length: 5 - 6 years
- Acceptance Rate: 5 - 10%
- Tuition and Fees: $20,800/year
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships
PhD in Computational Biology Admission Requirements
- Official transcripts
- Master’s degree
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- GRE exam scores (optional but encouraged)
- Application fee
- Statement of purpose
John Hopkins University is a private research university named after its initial benefactor, John Hopkins. Founded in 1876, it was the first research university to be established in the United States. Some of the most renowned and highly-ranked doctoral programs at John Hopkins include medicine, biological sciences, biostatistics, and public health.
PhD in Pathobiology
This PhD in Pathobiology program provides an active learning, evidence-based approach to pathobiology. Enrolled students are fully funded, with average costs of over $98,000 per student covered by the university. At the end of the program, students will be prepared for academic, teaching, research, and biotechnology positions to find solutions to various diseases.
PhD in Pathobiology Overview
- Program Length: 5.5 years
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Tuition and Fees: No fees
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Fully funded by Johns Hopkins with a $34,910 yearly stipend
PhD in Pathobiology Admission Requirements
- Current resume
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree
- Personal statement
- GRE scores (optional)
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
Northern Arizona University is a public research university founded in 1899. NAU offers over 100 doctoral programs and enrolls over 4,500 graduate students. The school is ranked 57th on the list of the most innovative schools in the United States by US News & World Report.
PhD in Informatics and Computing
PhD students enrolled in this program have the choice of specializing in Bioengineering Informatics, Cyber and Software Systems, Ecological and Environmental Informatics, or Health and Bioinformatics. Degree requirements include research, preparing and defending a dissertation, comprehensive exams, and completing 60 to 109 credit units of graduate courses.
PhD in Informatics Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $12,250/year (in state); $28,240/year (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: CEIAS Scholarship, VMWare Scholarship, employee tuition reduction, and graduate assistantships and tuition waivers
PhD in Informatics Admission Requirements
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree
- GRE exam scores
- Current resume
- Personal statement or essay
- Relevant expertise in informatics
- Three letters of recommendation
The University of Arizona is a public research university founded in 1885 by the Arizona Territorial Legislature. It was the first higher learning institution in the state. As a member of the Association of American Universities and the Universities Research Association, UA offers numerous top-quality doctoral degree programs. Top PhD programs include audiology, education, natural sciences, nursing, and musical arts.
PhD in Biostatistics
UA's biostatistics PhD program covers topics such as bioinstrumentation, molecular biophysics, interfacial biosystems engineering, polymeric science and engineering, and neural and neuromuscular prostheses. To get a PhD degree in this specialization, students must complete 74 credits of coursework, a dissertation, and qualifying examinations.
PhD in Biostatistics Overview
- Program Length: 6 to 7 years
- Acceptance Rate: 81.82%
- Tuition: $13,400/year (in state); $33,600/year (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate scholarships and assistantships, Named scholarships, and the Western Regional Graduate Program
PhD in Biostatistics Admission Requirements
- Master’s Degree in Statistics, Biostatistics, or a relevant field
- 3.2 minimum GPA
- Current resume
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose, writing sample, and a mission and values statement
- Documented experience in computer programming (C++, Java, Python, or R programming languages) highly recommended
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) was founded in 1882 as a teacher's college. Today, UCLA provides over 120 graduate programs to 6,000 newly admitted graduate students per year. Numerous graduate programs at UCLA are repeatedly ranked among the top programs in the world.
PhD in Bioinformatics
Students in this program will enjoy research, training, and collaboration opportunities with some of the most expert faculty and professionals in the world of bioinformatics. Students have access to one of the largest computer grids in the US to explore topics like human genome evolution, population genetics, and computational methods to analyze epigenomic data.
PhD in Bioinformatics
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: 28%
- Tuition and Fees: $17,756/year (in state); $32,858/year (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, training grants, GEM Fellowship, UC HBCU Initiative, Dissertation Year Fellowship, and graduate student researcher positions
PhD in Bioinformatics Admission Requirements
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Official transcripts
- Current Resume
- GRE exam scores (optional)
The University of Ilinois at Chicago was established in 1965 and enrolls over 33,000 students. Located on the West Side of Chicago, UIC is Chicago’s only public research university and is recognized for its cultural diversity. UIC’s graduate school departments offer 61 different doctoral programs to students in a wide range of fields.
PhD in Bioinformatics
Core topics of this 108-credit program include machine learning, the principles of bioinformatics, and statistical mechanics in biological systems. Students of this program will complete and defend a dissertation, pass preliminary and qualifying exams, and complete at least two research seminars before graduation to obtain the PhD.
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PhD in Bioinformatics Overview
- Program Length: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $5,935/semester (in state); $12,369/semester (out of state)
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, research assistantships, tuition waivers, and fellowships
PhD in Bioinformatics Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Physics, Mathematics, Science, or a related field
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- GRE exam scores (optional)
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Personal Statement
The University of Miami is a private research university established in South Florida in 1925. The university enrolls over 17,000 students in over 12 schools and colleges. It is known for its extensive undergraduate and doctoral programs in marine science, psychology, education, engineering, and medicine.
PhD in Biomedical Engineering
The University of Miami takes biomedical engineering PhD students through key topics such as neurophysiology, cellular and molecular biology, and anatomy. Students of this 60-credit program are required to complete and defend a dissertation, pass oral qualifying exams, and publish at least two pieces of research. Graduates will be prepared for careers in academic or independent research in biomedical engineering.
PhD in Biomedical Engineering Overview
- Program Length: 5 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: $19,917/semester
- PhD Funding Opportunities: UM Fellowship, Maytag Fellowship, and Dean’s Fellowship
PhD in Biomedical Engineering Admission Requirements
- Master's Degree in Biomedical Engineering or highly qualified candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a related scientific field
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts
- GRE exam scores
The University of Utah was founded in 1850 as the University of Deseret. It now hosts over 8,000 graduate students in more than 100 master’s and doctoral programs. The University of Utah has become a leader in the world of biomedical informatics since its program’s founding in 1964.
PhD in Biomedical Informatics
Students in this program will cover the fundamentals of informatics and explore core coursework topics including translational informatics, grant writing, healthcare informatics, and statistics for biomedicine. The program is fully funded by the university and students will have the option of specializing in an informatics field of choice.
PhD in Biomedical Informatics Overview
- Program Length: 3 to 4 years
- Acceptance Rate: N/A
- Tuition and Fees: No fees
- PhD Funding Opportunities: Program fully funded by the University of Utah with a $29,710 yearly stipend
PhD in Biomedical Informatics Admission Requirements
- 3.0 Minimum GPA
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree
- Statement of purpose
- Official transcripts
- GRE exam scores
- Approval by the department administration standards
Can You Get a PhD in Bioinformatics Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Bioinformatics online. Since the research work is computational, you can obtain your doctoral degree remotely as long as you fulfill all of the graduation requirements. However, you may have to apply to universities or colleges outside of your state to access online bioinformatics PhD programs.
Best Online PhD Programs in Bioinformatics
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Bircham International University | PhD in Bioinformatics | 2 years |
| George Mason University | PhD in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology | N/A |
| Rutgers University | PhD in Health Informatics | 4 years |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics?
Generally, it takes four to six years to complete a PhD in Bioinformatics. However, depending on the university and the specialization you pursue, you can spend three to five years completing the program. Certain programs will take more time than others, and online or part-time programs can often take longer to finish than full-time, on-campus programs.
Is a PhD in Bioinformatics Hard?
Yes, earning a PhD in Bioinformatics is hard. Students pursuing this degree must complete intensive coursework, exams, and other requirements such as a dissertation or thesis. Moreover, some departments will demand prior requirements such as computer programming and mathematical skills, which can be challenging to acquire.
It takes a lot of effort to obtain a PhD in Bioinformatics. Nonetheless, the effort is worth it. With hard work and time, obtaining a bioinformatics PhD is feasible.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics?
The average tuition for a bioinformatics PhD program is $19,315 per year across all higher education institutions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
However, this value varies depending on the university. Some institutions will fund their bioinformatics PhD students completely, while others may ask for higher or lower tuition costs than the stated figures. Attending a private institution is often more expensive than a public institution, and it is best to research the costs and funding opportunities available for both.
How to Pay for a PhD in Bioinformatics: PhD Funding Options
The PhD funding options that students can take advantage of to pay for a PhD in Bioinformatics degree program include scholarships, graduate assistantships, fellowships, and tuition waivers. Some institutions, like the University of Utah and Johns Hopkins University, offer enrolled students fully-funded tuition, a yearly stipend, and health insurance.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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What Is the Difference Between a Bioinformatics Master’s Degree and PhD?
The difference between a bioinformatics master’s degree and a PhD is the content of the curriculum and the number of years required to complete the program. While master’s degree programs typically take around two years, PhDs take an extended period of up to six or seven years.
Bioinformatics master’s degrees will cover foundational concepts, but PhDs focus on advanced knowledge and specialized, applicable skills in the field. Additionally, PhDs offer superior job positions compared to master’s degrees because they are the highest form of educational qualification one can have in a particular field of study.
Master’s vs PhD in Bioinformatics Job Outlook
The employment rate for bioengineers, a profession that typically only requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree, is projected to grow by six percent in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is much lower than the rate of employment growth for bioinformatics scientists, which is expected to increase by 22 percent.
This shows that the demand for PhD degree candidates in the bioinformatics field is higher than that of master’s degree holders. Having a PhD in Bioinformatics makes you the most qualified candidate for most positions and you can be assured of securing numerous lucrative career opportunities.
Difference in Salary for Bioinformatics Master’s vs PhD
A PhD in Bioinformatics graduate earns an average base salary of $116,000 per year, according to PayScale. This does not include the numerous benefits and perks of this position. Moreover, some cities offer higher pay, such as San Francisco, San Diego, and New York.
With a Master’s Degree in Bioinformatics, candidates earn an average annual salary of $83,000. A PhD in Bioinformatics graduate earns almost double the salary of a master’s degree holder.
Related Bioinformatics Degrees
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Why You Should Get a PhD in Bioinformatics
You should get a PhD in Bioinformatics to enjoy the numerous benefits of this qualification. With a PhD, you will become a certified expert in the field. Below are some of top the reasons you should consider pursuing a bioinformatics PhD.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Bioinformatics
- Career development. A PhD in Bioinformatics is essential to secure senior positions in the field. This doctoral degree proves that you have the relevant knowledge and skills to handle top positions in renowned companies, and gives you an edge over the competition in the job market.
- Academic achievement. Aside from securing a dream job, some people feel most accomplished when achieving their academic goals. You can pursue a PhD in Bioinformatics to improve your skills and intensive knowledge in this scientific field.
- Innovative health projects. The best bioinformatics degree programs will equip you with new knowledge and skills in science, computing, and health. You can utilize these skills to work on groundbreaking projects, such as finding a biological solution or cure to a disease.
- Higher earning potential. A PhD automatically increases a degree holder’s earning potential, and can lead to salaries that are double what they would be with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Getting a PhD in Bioinformatics: Bioinformatics PhD Coursework
Getting a PhD in Bioinformatics requires candidates to complete core bioinformatics PhD coursework in mathematics, statistics, computing, and biology. Below are a few of the most common core courses you may see in a bioinformatics PhD program curriculum.
Introduction to Bioinformatics
This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of bioinformatics. It teaches about the different tools and techniques used in the field and how they are applied. It is typically a combination of theory and practical skills and topics for students to gain hands-on experience applying bioinformatics tools and solutions.
Bioinformatics Resources and Databases
This course involves the study of biological databases, data formats, ontologies, and biological resources. This course helps you learn how to obtain and apply different databases to find solutions in the field.
Linux
This course focuses on teaching students how to learn Linux, an operating system that is heavily utilized in the field of bioinformatics. It covers the introduction to Linux, Linux environment, command-line interface, manipulating files and directories, navigating Linux directory structure, and primary Linux commands.
Multiple Sequence Alignment
This course introduces students to multiple sequence alignment theory (MSA), and a protein, DNA, or RNA biological sequence alignment. Students will learn about visualization and assessment of MSA quality, and how to use proper tools for MSA analysis.
Molecular Evolution and Phylogenetics
A course in molecular evolution and phylogenetics focuses on how different species and genes are related. The course will cover introductory and overview methods of molecular evolution and phylogenetic approaches.
Best Master’s Degrees
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How to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics: Doctoral Program Requirements
When undertaking a PhD in Bioinformatics, you’ll have to fulfill all of the doctoral program requirements. Whether you are pursuing a PhD in Informatics and Computing, Information Science, or Pathobiology, below are the typical requirements you’ll need to fulfill to get your degree.
A PhD in Bioinformatics program will state the total credit hours you’ll have to complete to obtain your doctoral degree, as well as any required publication or research work. Programs can have credit requirements from 65 to over 100 credit hours. Many graduate assistantships or fully-funded programs will require students to publish articles in peer-reviewed journals or assist faculty in research.
Like many other degrees, PhD in Bioinformatics programs require multiple comprehension and qualifying exams for students to test whether they've mastered different key concepts in the field. To receive your Doctor of Philosophy degree, you must pass the preliminary and qualifying exams.
As a highly-qualifying program of study, the best universities offering PhD in Bioinformatics degrees usually require a minimum GPA that candidates must maintain. Some programs will not allow candidates to graduate or will suspend funding or assistantships if a certain GPA is not met throughout their studies.
Each bioinformatic PhD program entails certain coursework that students must complete in order to be certified in a specific area. This coursework is typically divided into different units in the curriculum, such as core courses, research and dissertation hours, and elective courses.
Before enrolling in any PhD program, you should research the course curriculum in the school catalog to ensure that the curriculum is a good fit for your interests and career goals.
Perhaps the most vital requirement for a bioinformatics PhD is the thesis or dissertation. A dissertation is a research project where students answer a particular question or solve a problem that is relevant to their field of study.
The dissertation usually has to be orally defended in front of the department, and this allows the faculty to evaluate whether the candidate has acquired the necessary research skills to enable them to find a solution to real-world problems and situations.
Potential Careers With a Bioinformatics Degree
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PhD in Bioinformatics Salary and Job Outlook
A PhD in Bioinformatics degree increases your qualifications for employment and your earning potential significantly. The job outlook for PhD holders in this field is 22 percent more than the national average for all other occupations. Therefore, you can always find a viable career opportunity in the field, from teaching in a university to industry research.
What Can You Do With a PhD in Bioinformatics?
With a PhD in Bioinformatics, you can join leading experts in many different career paths. You can also enjoy top-paying job opportunities with numerous benefits and exclusive perks to boost your productivity, job satisfaction, and career development. Below are some of the best bioinformatics jobs available to graduates.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Bioinformatics
- Computer and Information Research Scientist
- Postsecondary Teacher
- Bioinformatician
- Senior Research Scientist
- Principal Investigator/Clinical Research
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Bioinformatics?
The average PhD in Bioinformatics salary is $116,000 per year, according to PayScale. This value can vary depending on your location and the company you work for. Check out some of the best high-paying bioinformatics jobs below.
Highest-Paying Bioinformatics Jobs for PhD Grads
| Bioinformatics PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | $131,490 |
| Principal Scientist | $125,801 |
| Senior Research Scientist in Biotechnology | $108,465 |
| Bioengineer or Biomedical Engineer | $97,410 |
| Principle Investigator in Clinical Research | $85,000 |
Best Bioinformatics Jobs with a Doctorate
The job opportunities for candidates with a PhD in Bioinformatics are endless. Below you’ll find information regarding job duties, job outlook, and annual salary information for some of the best jobs available in the field of bioinformatics.
Computer and information research scientists use their analytical and statistics skills to identify and improve computing problems in a wide range of industries. Job duties of these professionals can include working with scientists to identify and solve a technological problem and utilizing machine learning and data science concepts to conduct experiments and tests.
- Salary with a Bioinformatics PhD: $131,490
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 33,000
- Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, and Texas
Principal or head scientists often lead teams of qualified research professionals that collect data on different phenomenons, from genetic sequencing to hereditary diseases. Their expertise and dedication to science allow them to properly analyze and predict trends, and they generally focus on advancing the scientific field itself as opposed to the profits of an industry.
- Salary with a Bioinformatics PhD: $125,801
- Job Outlook: 17% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 133,900
- Highest-Paying States: Connecticut, Maine, and Delaware
Senior research scientists in biotechnology engage in biology, mathematics, computer science, and/or chemistry research operations for companies, organizations, or universities. They often focus on academic and industrial projects to create new products or systems and conduct experiments to analyze developments in the field.
- Salary with a Bioinformatics PhD: $108,465
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 33,000
- Highest-Paying States: Oregon, Arizona, and Texas
Bioengineers work with computing and data science, engineering, and human health. These professionals typically work in research to develop new statistical models, software, or even drugs and cures to diseases, or quality assurance to test and inspect computer systems, equipment, and processes to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Salary with a Bioinformatics PhD: $97,410
- Job Outlook: 6% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 19,300
- Highest-Paying States: New Mexico, Arizona, and Minnesota
Principle investigators in clinical research often work in laboratories and lead a team of scientists to conduct clinical research and tests regarding different diseases or medical phenomena. Objectives vary by field, but the principal investigator is in charge of assisting and offering guidance to team members and offering expertise in the research process.
- Salary with a Bioinformatics PhD: $85,000
- Job Outlook: 17% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 133,900
- Highest-Paying States: Connecticut, Maine, and Delaware
Is a PhD in Bioinformatics Worth It?
Yes, a PhD in Bioinformatics is worth it. With this doctoral qualification, you will stand out from other candidates, as a PhD degree proves that you have specialized, expert knowledge and skills to perform any role in bioinformatics exceptionally. With a high-earning potential in a growing field, pursuing a PhD in Bioinformatics will prove to be more than worth it.
Additional Reading About Bioinformatics
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PhD in Bioinformatics FAQ
Yes, you can get a top-quality PhD in Bioinformatics online at schools like Bircham International University, Rutgers University, and George Mason University. These institutions allow you to pursue your Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics remotely and at your own pace.
The most affordable PhD in Bioinformatics programs are those that are fully funded by the university. These programs include the PhD in Pathobiology offered by Johns Hopkins and the PhD in Biomedical Informatics program at the University of Utah. These two universities cover the full tuition amount and even provide students with a yearly stipend to cater to other needs.
No, you typically cannot get an application fee back after you withdraw your application. Most application fees are non-refundable because they facilitate the entire evaluation process and prove to the department that you are serious about attending the program.
No, a Master’s Degree in Bioinformatics is not always a mandatory admission requirement. Many universities will accept candidates for bioinformatics PhD programs as long as they have a master’s degree in a relevant course, and other universities will accept highly qualified candidates with only a bachelor’s degree.
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