Microbes play a significant role in the normal development of animal tissues. In this research project we examine the synergistic effects of microgravity and Lunar stressors on the normal developmental interactions between an animal host and a bacterial symbiont. To examine the effects of the space environment on animal-microbe symbioses, we use the model system between the squid Euprymna scolopes and the luminescent bacterium Vibrio fischeri. We use both simulated microgravity and the natural space flight environment to explore how the stress of spaceflight impacts beneficial interactions between microbes and animals.

As space exploration pivots to areas beyond Low Earth Orbit including the Moon and Mars, new technologies are required to enable manned exploration to be more sustainable and self-sufficient. In this project our goal is to develop biological tools to facilitate the biomining of Lunar regolith to increase the production of key organic and inorganic materials needed for mission-relevant biological products. We use lithifying microbial mat communities as a source material, as they contain extensive genetic reservoirs for the resistance, precipitation, and dissolution of metals.

Microbialites are organosedimentary structures that are the direct result of the interactions between microbes and their surrounding environment. Although once dominant on the ancient Earth, today microbialites are rare, found only in unique and sometimes extreme locations around the globe. These complex microbial ecosystems have a propensity for the trapping, binding, and precipitation of organosedimentary structures such as calcium carbonates. Microbialite structures can range from the well-structured, laminated stromatolites to the unlayered, clotted thrombolites. Although once dominant on ancient Earth, today modern analogues of these microbial ecosystems are relegated to a few locations around the globe. By studying these communities, we can gain an understanding of the origins and evolution of life on Earth

Admissions and Application Information

The University of Florida Graduate School requires an undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 to be eligible for admission. Fulfillment of the minimum requirement does not guarantee an applicant’s acceptance into the program. In evaluating each applicant, the department’s Graduate Committee members include in their consideration a thorough review of the transcript, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, area of research interest, etc. Students are encouraged to complete undergraduate coursework in biochemistry and microbiology before they apply.

How to Apply

Admission into the UF Microbiology and Cell Science graduate program requires that an applicant be accepted both by the UF Graduate School and by the Microbiology and Cell Science Department. To complete the application process, apply online via the Graduate School admissions web site and select the “Graduate” option to create an account and begin your application. Visit the UF Graduate School web page for step-by-step instructions on how to apply. Select the “Apply Now” icon below to go directly to the Ph.D. Application.

Students are admitted to the PhD program each fall semester. Applications must be completed by December 15th to be considered for admission the following fall semester.

We are not currently accepting applications for the thesis master’s degree program.

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Required Application Materials

• Application fee of $30.
• Official Transcripts.
• CV or resume.
• Three letters of recommendation (LOR). We suggest that candidates request LOR from professional/academic mentors or colleagues that can comment on their academic/research experiences.
• Personal statement. The personal statement should consist of a brief essay describing your research experience, career goals, and area of research interest (limit 500 words)
• Supplemental information. Use this form to provide additional information that will be reviewed by the admissions committee
• International Applicants must also submit TOEFL scores (a score of 23 or higher on the speaking section is required to be considered for admission).
  • TOEFL Score Codes for UF: Institution Code is 5812, Department Code is 07
  • We do not accept the IELTS

Please contact Jacqueline Lee at jlee9@ufl.edu if you have any questions regarding the application process or deadline.