University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This PhD programme combines advanced coursework, laboratory rotations, seminars and an extended original research project leading to a doctoral dissertation. Students normally take core classes in microbial physiology, molecular microbiology, microbial genetics, and cellular immunology, alongside quantitative and bioinformatics methods relevant to modern microbiology.

Typical components include:

• Advanced coursework in microbial and immunological theory and techniques (molecular methods, genomics, proteomics, microbial ecology).
• Laboratory rotations during early stages to identify a research mentor and lab group.
• Regular research seminars, journal clubs and a departmental seminar series to develop presentation and critical analysis skills.
• Qualifying/competency examinations to confirm readiness for independent research.
• Independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor, culminating in a written dissertation and oral defence.
• Opportunities for teaching assistantships or mentoring undergraduate projects to gain pedagogy experience.

Research topics available in the programme reflect the university's strengths and may include marine and environmental microbiology, microbial biogeochemistry, host–microbe interactions, immunological responses to infection, microbial pathogenesis, and applied microbiology for biotechnology or public health. Students also have access to complementary skills training in bioinformatics, advanced microscopy, flow cytometry and high-throughput sequencing through campus core facilities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a relevant graduate degree (master's) or a strong bachelor's degree with substantial research experience in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology or a closely related discipline. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, and three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant's research potential.

Selection emphasises demonstrated research potential and fit with departmental faculty. Relevant laboratory experience, publications or conference presentations strengthen an application. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with university regulations. Applicants should contact potential faculty supervisors to discuss research alignment prior to application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue diverse careers in academia, government and industry. Common pathways include university faculty positions and postdoctoral research, roles in biomedical and biotechnology companies (research scientist, R&D lead), positions in public health and clinical laboratories, and scientific roles in environmental and marine research agencies. Additional careers include science policy, regulatory affairs, patent science and technical roles in contract research organisations (CROs).

The programme’s emphasis on both fundamental microbiology and immunology, together with training in modern molecular and computational approaches, prepares graduates for research-driven and leadership roles across the life sciences sector.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a distinctive research environment for microbial and immunological sciences, with unique access to tropical and marine ecosystems that support investigations in environmental microbiology, coral and marine microbiomes, and tropical infectious diseases. UH Manoa hosts interdisciplinary research centres and core facilities that support molecular biology, genomics and imaging, and encourages collaborations across departments including medicine, oceanography and ecology.

Because of its location and research networks, the university provides opportunities for field-oriented projects as well as lab-based biomedical research, enabling students to pursue questions that span from basic microbial physiology to applied public health and conservation. Doctoral students benefit from small research groups, close faculty mentorship and opportunities to engage with regional public-health, environmental and marine science organisations.