Application Letter Sample

Biosciences PhD Admissions                                                                  January 12, 2013

University of Wisconsin-Madison
1432 Genetics-Biotechnology Building
1265 Welsh Road, MSOB X2C34
Madison, CA 94305-5421

Dear Sir or Madam:

I, Adam Finberg, am applying to your PhD program in genetics with a specialization in molecular evolution that starts in September, 2013. My career objective is to become a doctor researching T-Cell regulation of antibody responses.

I graduated from Aberdeen High School with biology and physics as my focus. I continued my academic career with the study of “Function of genes homologous to chloroplast ORFs” at Humboldt University, Berlin. In July, 2013, I will graduate with a master’s degree in Bioscience with an expected average score of the GRE general test above 85 percent. At the moment, I rank among the top five students in my university, but my goal is to graduate among the top three.

After my first exposure to genetics, I took the course “Microbiology & Immunology” (MI). I was especially impressed that, in addition to knowing the advances in biology, the information presented gave a deeper understanding of human internal structure. Subsequently, visiting your Open Day, I became acquainted with the fascinating method of T-Cell regulation. That made me convinced that I want to continue my study at your university and focus on T-Cell regulation, as that allows me to match my interests in learning more about applied genetic science within an investigative processes of studying antibody responses.

As my curriculum vitae illustrates, I have had excellent opportunities to be exposed to research at laboratory-based environments throughout my academic years and my career as a laboratory assistant. Through these experiences, I have improved my knowledge in research methods as well as problem-solving and analyzing skills.

I have also had a chance to expand a network with experts in relevant fields. Gaining the understanding of the ethics and rules in different laboratories in addition to the invaluable skills to manage, lead and collaborate effectively with people. These experiences have built my confidence in working independently as a research specialist.

Supplementing my strong academic performance are my advanced skills in leadership and communication. During my studies, I took part in several projects as a team leader responsible for building and leading project teams. According to the program, every team was assigned three key members that had to divide responsibilities between each other. Playing the role as a team leader, I was responsible for not only my area of expertise, but also distributing project responsibilities such as building camaraderie between team members.

The central question in my studies is how T-cells segregate their genome accurately at each cell division. My research is focused on the centrosome, a unique organelle in the middle of the cell that organizes the cytoskeleton and serves as a platform for the integration of cellular signals. I use the tools of cell biology, genetics, and biochemistry in systems ranging from yeast to human cells to understand how the centrosome duplicates once per cell cycle, and how centrosome defects are involved in the genome instability that is observed in many types of cancer. Also, I was fortuned to have an exciting opportunity in performing research as an intern at the London Genetics Laboratory during one semester of my master degree program. That experience gave me understanding how the gene networks that control them have changed in response to recent selection in my research of T-Cell regulation.

My decision to pursue a PhD program at University of Wisconsin-Madison is underscored by your outstanding educational system, focused on gathering relevant work experience, and your excellent facilities. Furthermore, your university’s use of advanced equipment and cooperation with top genetic research centers drives my curiosity further. I am sure that the Laboratory of Genetics with its regarded research contribution to the development of genetics will provide a superb intellectual environment in which I can develop practical knowledge and will gain critical work experience. After speaking with students and professors from your university and other universities, I am confident in my decision. All mentioned positives allow me to improve my research and to pursue my dreams and ambitions.

I am confident that I will bring a high level of energy and enthusiasm to your program. I am sure to exceed your expectations, as both my academic and interpersonal skills as well as the experience gained from my internship will lend a substantial hand to the development of my selected field. I will enrich the program by enabling students and professors to benefit from my ambitious and open nature. Furthermore, my international background and interdisciplinary education will add more diversity to your program.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely yours,
Adam Finberg