FAQ
For prospective students
The IDEAS program is not currently admitting new students, please visit the website at a later time for more information.
If you’re interested in information or admissions on the new IDEAS program contact us and we’ll keep you up to date.
IDEAS is an inter-disciplinary program available to doctoral students at the University of Georgia. IDEAS students focus on solving problems in infectious disease biology that manifest at multiple scales of biological organization. For instance, a complete understanding of Ebola virus epidemics involves understanding molecular biology (the mechanisms whereby the virus evades the immune systems), physiology (immune response), sociology (the demographic and social conditions under which epidemics can occur), zoology (where does the Ebola virus persist when it is not affecting human populations?), and large-scale environmental and social change (why is Ebola virus increasingly spilling over into humans?). Our program believes that students trained in the fundamentals of disease biology, data science, and science communication will be best prepared to meet these challenges and those of other emerging and endemic infectious diseases.
At this time, the area of emphasis and the IDEAS graduate certificate are still in development.
You should have at least a bachelor’s degree (BA or BS) in a relevant major, such as biology, geography, ecology or mathematics. Students with a quantitative background (e.g., computer science, math, or statistics) who wish to cross-train are encouraged to apply and invited to inquire about preparatory coursework that might be suggested.
Required coursework is described on the Curriculum page and Program of Study page. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need clarification.
Yes. IDEAS courses are open to all graduate students at the University of Georgia with the permission of the instructor.
FAQ
For current students
After you have identified a possible faculty member, send them an introductory email. It should include the following information:
- Your academic background and current research interests
- Why you think you would be a good fit for their lab (read up on their current research on their lab page)
- What attracted you to the IDEAS program
Any of the faculty listed on our IDEAS trainers page are potential mentors. Contacting those individuals prior to the submission of your application is strongly encouraged.
Yes. However, we must disclose that non-US citizens are not eligible for training grant funding provided through the NSF; this is in accordance with federal regulations.
Required coursework is described on the Curriculum page and Program of Study page. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need clarification.
The internship component is quite flexible. We have internship partners lined up with positions available immediately, but are also open to new opportunities that might better serve your individual course of study.
At this time, the area of emphasis and the IDEAS graduate certificate are still in development.