Genetics & Genomics Scholars

The Genetics and Genomics Scholars program prepares future scientists for cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research across the life sciences.

The Genetics and Genomics (GG) Scholars umbrella program is built on the philosophy that the exploration of genes and genomes informs all fields of biology. The GG Scholars program is open to any Fall-term incoming PhD students.  Incoming GG Scholars are able to explore a variety of life sciences graduate programs at NC State University during their first year and have the opportunity to expand their training and research capabilities.

The GG Scholars are a strong, cohort-based graduate community representing excellence in education and research. GG Scholars are awarded competitive one-year graduate fellowships covering stipend, tuition, and benefits. After their first year, GG Scholars are supported by research and/or teaching assistantships.

GG Scholars will engage in a one-year innovative, project-based curriculum that integrates foundational conceptual training in genetics and genome-scale techniques with big data analysis and professional development. Beyond the first year, the Genetics & Genomics Academy (GGA) provides GG Scholars with a strong community of scientists conducting a broad range of basic and applied research. Throughout their PhD, GG Scholars have opportunities for professional development, including a world-class GGA Seminar Series, interactions with GGA Research Interest Groups, and a network of partnerships at the University and beyond to support careers in research, education, outreach, policy, and industry. Students who complete the curriculum are also awarded a Graduate Minor in Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Genetics & Genomics (IPGG). This minor is also open to graduate students in the affiliated programs as well.

GG Scholars benefit from:
  • A vibrant cohort-focused graduate community
  • Innovative training and professional development
  • Research mentors from over 150 university faculty spanning 27 departments and 6 colleges
  • State-of-the-art facilities
  • Financial support provided, including tuition and benefits
  • Diverse career support via network of industry partners and programs in education and policy

The GGS curriculum opened my eyes to how interwoven genetics and genomics are to other biological fields. I am also thankful for the diverse knowledge base the program provides, and that I can bounce ideas off my cohort peers, who may not be in my field of study, but can progress my research thanks to their niche insights.

Angie Petrichenko, 2025 GG Scholar (Microbiology)
My favorite part of the GGS program is definitely the community. Everyone is super supportive and respectful of one another, and I love how we value each other’s strengths and perspectives and experiences.
Quiana Mosley, 2022 GG Scholar (Genetics)

Meet the new GG Scholars cohort!

2026 GGS Cohort
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Admissions and Funding

Learn more about the admission process and funding for the GG Scholars program.

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Affiliated Graduate Programs

Learn more about the affiliated NC State PhD programs that GG Scholars are able to pursue.

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GG Scholars Curriculum

Learn more about the Fall & Spring GGS course and training curriculum for the GG Scholars

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Graduate Student Resources

Learn more about professional development and other resources for GG Scholars

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Learn more about the Genetics & Genomics Academy!