personal statement biology phd

How to Write a PhD Personal Statement For Biology

20/02/2023 Emily Watson

If you’re applying to study Biology at PhD level, you may be required to submit a personal statement. Crafting an excellent personal statement is more than simply relaying a list of your qualifications and skills – it involves careful planning and putting thought into your motivations, interests, commitment to the subject area, and more. This guide contains nine tips on how to write a stand-out personal statement for a Biology PhD programme. You’ll also find top tips from The Profs’ expert postgraduate admissions tutors as well as Profs Co-Founder, Dr Leo Evans , who has personally helped students develop successful applications for top universities.

1. Check what is required of you

Before you begin writing your personal statement, make sure you check what is required of you. Some universities do require you to write a personal statement for PhD Biology, while others do not (instead, they may ask for other documents along with a research proposal). Each university that does require a personal statement for PhD Biology specifies slightly different guidelines. For example, Oxford asks for a 500-word personal statement for PhD Biology, while Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) asks for one side of A4. Whether you are required to submit a personal statement, and what you include in that statement, may also depend on whether you are applying for a defined PhD opportunity (e.g. a funded studentship) that is on a topic chosen by the university, or an open PhD programme that asks you to submit a research proposal on a topic of your choice. There may also be some taught elements to your PhD, such as compulsory research methods and research integrity modules – if this is the case, think about how you can prove that you are prepared to develop these advanced research skills and succeed at this element of the programme in your personal statement.

2. Consider what appeals to you specifically about the course

It is important to research the specific PhD programme you’re applying for and discuss exactly why it appeals to you in your personal statement. University-specific research is often the most overlooked part of a postgraduate application and so it is a great way to stand out to universities. Consider why you have chosen to apply for this PhD Biology programme over another – perhaps it is the strong links the university has to your desired industry, or maybe the Biology department specialises in your particular area of interest. Whatever the reasons why your specific course appeals to you, make sure to include them in your personal statement.

3. Think about your motivations for applying

Your chosen university will want to know your motivations for applying for a PhD in Biology. It’s all well and good to be interested in the subject area, but having a more specific purpose or goal in mind will show the university that you are an excellent candidate to study the subject at PhD level. For example, perhaps you have a particular career goal and completing a PhD will help you achieve it. If so, how will it help and what specifically do you hope to gain from the course? Maybe you have been inspired by a particular event related to your chosen course and want to enact real-world change. If so, tell the university how pursuing this course will help you do this. Founder of The Profs and Imperial College London graduate, Dr Leo Evans, also recommends making it clear that you are committed to the subject area for the long haul: “Not only will academics be trying to gauge whether you are suitable for a PhD (i.e. that you are intelligent, qualified, a self-starter, driven and committed), they will also be judging whether you are likely to see it out when the going gets hard. Drop off rates are high in PhDs and it is quite expensive for departments to essentially train people who then leave (i.e. they take up departmental resources by having classes and taking up supervisors’ time, etc.).”

4. Go into detail about your past studies

When applying for PhD Biology, you need to outline exactly why and how you are well-suited to the course based on your previous academic experience. Universities will know what you have studied as it will be outlined in your grade transcript, so don’t be too vague. It’s best to talk about specific modules or topics you covered in your Master’s degree (or undergraduate degree, if you are applying without a Master’s) that have prepared you for studying Biology at PhD level. You should focus on discussing any independent work you have completed, both during your studies (such as a dissertation or independent research project), as well as work that has allowed you to develop the necessary skills for studying Biology at an advanced level (particularly strong technical and problem-solving skills). This will help to demonstrate your academic competence, commitment to the subject, and ability to work independently – a highly important skill at postgraduate level. As an example, if you are proposing to research into the evolution of sex chromosomes in plants, you will ideally need to demonstrate that you have a solid foundation of knowledge and experience in plant biology (botany) from the modules you studied at undergraduate level. If you researched a similar topic in your undergraduate or Master’s dissertation and can cite specific findings and academics, even better.

Top tip: If you have any gaps in your education history, make sure you address these in your PhD personal statement. Your university will be keen to know that your postgraduate degree is not just a ‘back-up’, but that you are serious and committed, and that it is part of your academic or career plan. Similarly, if you are lacking any subject-specific experience (for example, if you studied your undergraduate degree in a subject other than Biology), compensate for this by explaining how you have developed your foundation of relevant knowledge in other ways.

5. Include any relevant work experience

Including any relevant work experience you have completed in your personal statement will help to further demonstrate your genuine interest and real-world understanding of advanced level Biology on an industry-specific level. It is particularly important in a postgraduate personal statement because it shows proactivity and dedication to your future academic or professional career – something that your chosen university will be looking for closely. Relevant work experience for a Biology PhD might include: taking a post as a research assistant, working a placement in the NHS or in a science laboratory, volunteering working with animals in a zoo or veterinary practice, writing for a scientific paper, and more. Rather than simply listing the relevant work experience you have, make sure you show a degree of introspection. Tell your chosen university not only what you did on any work experience placements, but also what you learnt from it and how you intend to apply that experience in order to excel in your PhD.

Top tip: Though it’s important to include it if you have it, you may not be required to have professional work experience to apply for a Biology PhD. Many people who apply for a PhD have been in education their whole adult lives, so if you are missing experience then simply fill the space with further educational experience and skills that prove you are well-suited to studying at PhD level. However, some programmes (particularly those rooted in molecular biology or biomedical sciences) may expect you to have some clinical or lab-based work experience, so always check the entry requirements beforehand.

6. How else have you developed your interest in the topic?

Universities won’t just be looking at your past studies and work experience, but also how you have pursued and developed your interest in your chosen research topic in your own time. For example, maybe you led the Biology society at your previous university, or perhaps you have simply explored your interest in the topic through reading relevant academic papers. Make sure to include examples and name-drop any significant organisations, news, papers, and academics throughout your personal statement to support your claims. Keeping up to date with news in the relevant biological communities (for example, updates about the NHS and health policy if you are studying biomedicine), is also a great way to enhance your personal statement. It will allow you to make relevant references and anecdotes, show your commitment to the subject area, and demonstrate your understanding of the wider context of your research area. Some resources that will help you do that include the New Scientist , the Biology section of The Guardian , The Guardian , Science.org , Smithsonian magazine , and the BMJ .

7. Briefly outline your 5-year plan

Universities will be looking for PhD applicants who are driven and committed to their industry. A strong personal statement should outline your goals for the future and explain how studying a PhD in Biology will help you to achieve your 5-year plan. If you don’t have a 5-year plan, you’re not alone! Start by thinking specifically about what you hope to achieve by the end of your PhD, whether educationally or professionally. If you have professional objectives, explain how this course will help you move towards your career goal.

Top tip: Coming up with a 5-year plan may seem like a daunting task, but remember that plans can always change. The 5-year plan you outline in your personal statement does not have to be set in stone and it is expected that you will inevitably adapt your plans based on your changing circumstances and interests. However, no matter how daunted you are, don’t be tempted to leave this part out – it is invaluable for demonstrating your motivation and commitment to the course.

8. Show that you have the technical skills required

University level Biology requires students to have more than just excellent subject knowledge – it is a highly quantitative subject that requires excellent technical skills. Depending on the research you are proposing, you may need to demonstrate that you are able to use certain software and lab equipment, and have strong data analysis skills. If you studied Biology at Master’s level, you will almost certainly be familiar with many of the technical skills required and will be able to demonstrate this in your personal statement. However, if you studied a slightly different (but related) subject area, you may need to research what skills you will need in order to conduct your research project effectively. This will help to reassure your university that you are prepared to study Biology at PhD level.

9. Consider how your work can contribute to the department, university, and wider society

Our final tip to writing an excellent PhD personal statement for Biology is to consider how your work will contribute – not only to the specific department and university you are applying for, but also to wider society. Universities will want to know that you understand the wider context in which your research will sit and what gap it will fill in the current research. When applying for a PhD (especially a funded PhD), you’re also essentially asking a university to invest in you, so you need to convince them that you are worth that investment. A major way to do this is to explain how you will add value to their department and be an excellent member of the academic community. Biology research can also have real impacts in a range of other disciplines and in wider society. For example, developments in molecular biology underpin clinically relevant subjects including cancer, embryology, movement disorders, arthritis, and more, and allow for new and life-changing treatments to be developed to help patients.

How can we help?

The Profs’ PhD admissions consultants are true experts in helping students prepare for study at PhD level, submit stand-out PhD applications, and get into their first choice universities. Our network contains current researchers, lecturers, and ex-admissions staff who have reviewed hundreds of postgraduate applications, as well as Biology experts, so they know just what universities are looking for in PhD applicants. 95% of students who work with our team secure places at their first or second choice university. These universities often include top 10 institutions like Oxbridge, Imperial, UCL, Manchester, Bristol, and more. For professional, one-to-one guidance on your PhD application, get in touch with our team today.

Further resources

• How to Apply For a PhD
• How to Write a PhD Research Proposal
• How to Prepare For a Postgraduate Interview
• Common Postgraduate Interview Questions

Browse more “ University Applications ” related blogs:

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Sample Personal Statement in Biology (Admitted to JHU)

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

Here is the personal statement of a student who made it to John Hopkins University with a 100% scholarship in the field of cancer biology.

I want to emphasise that you must be honest in writing your personal statements. If you borrow content from other places, refer to them in your personal statement. Admissions officers in the US read many essays each year and can easily detect plagiarism.

Sample Personal Statement in Biology

“Raise your hand if your first memory was at age five,” prompted the professor on the first day of my classes. By the time he reached age two, most hands had lowered, but mine remained high. When I was two, I vividly remember when my aunt hugged her daughter tightly and exclaimed to her, “Someone is really brave and is soon going to become even braver!” 

I must have looked bewildered because then my aunt started to sob uncontrollably. How could I have known then what she meant? A couple of days later, my cousin was on an operating table, screaming and crying, with bright lights and nurses poking at her – she never came out of that operation theatre. 

However, it was not until I was in grade 8 that I learned that she had breast cancer, but I have long considered it a defining characteristic. Now years later, I wonder about the rareness of this disorder, the steadfast will of her parents throughout the hardship, and the failure of medicine to save her. From this experience as an onlooker, my passion for medicine emerged.

During my primary education, I expressly recall interacting with several people in the late stages of cancer. I knew my actions would not cure them at that point, yet I endured and persevered with patience. The immovable barriers of affliction I encountered during my academic years were far too menacing to be left unaddressed; during this time, I learned about the staggering number of deaths due to breast cancer alone. After realizing the cost of inaction, I decided to search for a career involving action against affliction.

Since R&D provides a vehicle for such action, I delved into several research efforts at the Molecular Biology (Human Genetics) Lab under the supervision of Dr Brown. Although I wanted to work in the area of breast cancer since I had taken several courses in cancer biology, due to a lack of research in the area of my interest, I decided to get involved in a similar domain called “hereditary hypotrichosis” or research on hair related diseases; also a genetic disease with research techniques similar to that of cancer biology. These experiences have drawn me to research as I have seen its potential to engage disease. 

But could I pursue research for the rest of my life? This question resonated in my head countless times and is still faintly heard. I am attracted to research by its potential for action but am detracted by its distance from the afflicted and its consequent neglect of presence. Unsatisfied, I looked for a vocation involving both presence and action.

Being born and raised in a remote rural village 130km away from the nearest city, I used to walk 6km every day to a shelter home school when I was in grade 5. Later, at the age of 12, I left my home permanently to study at another rural school 30km away – but these efforts and hardships paid off; as I stood ranked 1st in my enrollment. With the help of the Education Scholarship, I could continue my education. 

During these years, I also focused on teaching and ensuring that my rural village benefited from my expertise. However, what drew me to teaching was the capacity to love with both presence and action. This became evident over the years as I have spent countless hours counselling and mentoring those afflicted with educational concerns, both in my home city and places I have been to for work. 

Beyond teaching at various schools, where I taught about biological disorders, genetics, biochemistry, and nutrition to teachers from an arts background, I have also extended my efforts to community work by disseminating scholarship information to our community. Being associated with a village-based development organization as a community mobilizer, I have won rewards for my role in completely eradicating drug addiction in my area. I have also extended my philosophy to social, economic, and emotional affliction by wholeheartedly working on schemes such as “Water Supply”, “Don’t Let Our Environment Get Contaminated”, “Stitching and Handicraft”, and “Try to Boast Economy” – projects that engage in a struggle against poverty, mortality, and social injustice. As my conception of affliction broadened, I began to see many exciting career paths in various fields. However, thought, prayer, and counsel have revealed that my efforts would be best spent focusing on one form of affliction.

This circuitous path has thus brought me back to medicine. In considering teaching, volunteering, and social work as potential vocations, I have confirmed my desire to become a researcher in the field of breast cancer and to focus on physical affliction. Nonetheless, my experiences in these fields have helped me to forge a new conception of medicine that I can uphold as a future researcher. 

From my study and interactions with cancer patients, I have learned about the capacity to love when facing a terminal illness. In addition, my research pursuits have revealed the importance of action in combination with presence. Finally, my experiences with teaching and social service have stretched my conception of affliction.

A further degree will amalgamate my existing knowledge and experiences with a command of the causes and effects of illness, yielding an acute insight into the field of breast cancer. A multidisciplinary approach that involves collaboration across the fields of basic science, medicine, and public health can tackle the roots of problems with a high rate of breast cancer. I believe I can make a significant difference in the health of our society, and I cannot wait for the opportunity to do so actively.

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Graduate School Statement of Purpose Tips

Not sure what the statement of purpose in the BE PhD application is supposed to look like? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s break it down.

The two most important questions to answer in your personal statement are:

• What have I done during my time as an undergraduate and afterward to prepare myself for being a Biological Engineering PhD Student?
• How do I show I am a good fit for the BE program specifically at MIT?

Let’s start with some tips on addressing the first point – your past experiences and preparation for a PhD program:

• Your personal statement should describe your most important previous research experience(s) in depth. For those who have worked in several labs, discuss only those experiences which were the most relevant to your scientific journey. For those who have only worked in one lab, do not panic, that is completely okay! Either way, just make sure to describe both what you accomplished during your research and what you learned in the process. What you learned in the process should emphasize either transferable technical skills you picked up, such as writing well-organized code, or research “soft skills” that you gained, such as working independently or collaboratively. Frequent approaches to talking about previous research with a compelling narrative include discussing a challenge you overcame and what you took away from it, discussing a moment of failure and how you moved forward, or discussing a moment that brought you joy to be doing research. You can spend multiple paragraphs addressing previous research. Also, feel free to mention if any patents or publications came out of your work (and it’s completely fine if not).
• If your transcript does not include both fundamental biology and quantitative coursework, discuss how you have demonstrated competency in the missing area. It is usually best to leave your coursework to your transcript unless there are one or two advanced courses you feel had a large impact on your research interests. However, if you haven’t had any fundamental biology courses (like biochemistry or cellular biology), describe ways (e.g. online courses, reading, or research) that you have gained an understanding of how biological systems operate. Similarly, if your transcript does not include courses with significant quantitative components (such as ODEs, introductory programming, probability and statistics, or thermodynamics), discuss how you’ve supplemented your coursework with quantitative material.

Okay now for the trickier part. How do you show you are a good fit for Biological Engineering specifically at MIT? Here are some tips:

• Your personal statement should show that your goals align with the MIT BE mission to further knowledge at the interface of biology and engineering. The MIT Biological Engineering graduate admissions committee wishes to know how you plan to fuse an understanding of how biological systems work (especially at the molecular and cellular levels) with engineering approaches (such as mathematical modeling, computation, and/or hands-on design) in order to measure, model, manipulate, make, or quantitatively analyze biological systems in novel ways for societal benefit.
• Your personal statement should describe your research interests moving forward, and should discuss how they tie into the research people in the department currently do. It is recommended you specifically mention at least two (preferably three) professors with whom you would be interested in working. Rather than saying you are “generally interested in biological engineering,” discuss specific examples of subdisciplines (or even sub-subdisciplines) you would like to work in, such as “mammalian synthetic biology,” “cancer immunotherapy,” or “neurological drug delivery.” Make sure to describe why you are interested in these subdisciplines. It is often helpful to give examples of specific scientific questions you would like to answer or engineering challenges you would like to work on. Tying these ideas to work currently being done in the department/program will make them much more impactful. These interests may easily change while you are in the program, but it is still important to show you have identified and reflected upon the research directions you most likely want to pursue. Additionally, not all the faculty members you mention must be doing exactly what you are interested in so long as you can explain how your research interests fit with theirs.

Finally, here are a few miscellaneous tips to polish it off:

• Your personal statement should emphasize how your previous experiences will help you achieve the scientific goals you’ve described. Basically, when you read back over your statement, it should be clear how what you’ve done in the past makes you qualified to do what you want in the future. It’s okay if you still have many skills you need to pick up on the way! That’s expected. It’s also okay if you don’t want to do the same thing in grad school as you did in/after undergrad (that’s extremely common). Just make sure to at some point explain how what you previously worked on makes you a good candidate for researching the kind of things you want in the future. This could include technical skills (e.g. you now want to apply machine learning to immunology rather than neuroscience) or soft skills (e.g. your comfort with independently designing experimental protocols will be helpful for making new methods for performing cellular measurements). Sentences addressing this point can be peppered throughout the narrative, or you can section off a paragraph for it, but make sure it goes in a logical place.
• At the end, your personal statement should very briefly discuss long-term career goals and research visions. There is no right answer, and there are no expectations that you would know now, but best guesses are helpful. This can just be one to two sentences. And you don’t have to say that you want to be a professor unless that is something you think you might want to do!
• Your personal statement should be no more than 2 pages (single-spaced).   Them’s the rules.

Additional Resources:

• Get more tips on personal statements from the BE Comm Lab here .
• Tips for CVs/Resumes and templates .
• Don’t forget to prep for interviews .

Blog post written by BE graduate students Dylan Hirsch, Molly Parsons, and the Graduate Student DEI recruitment working group. 

Posted Sept 2021.

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How to Write a Personal Statement for a PhD Program Application

Personal statement guidelines, general guidelines to keep in mind:.

• One size does not fit all : Tailor your personal statement to each program and department you are applying to. Do your research to learn what is unique about each of your choices and highlight how this particular program stands out.
• Yes, it’s personal : Showcase your unique strengths and accomplishments. Explain what influenced your personal decisions to pursue the program. Ask yourself, could this be applied to your friend or neighbor? If so, you need to be more specific and provide examples. Saying that you are a “good scientist” isn’t enough. Provide examples of your previous research experience, projects you’ve completed, and what technical skills you learned. Explain how you overcame any challenges along the way.
• Set aside enough time :  Although personal statements are generally short in length (approx. 700 words; 1-2 pages), give yourself ample time to write a strong, well-written statement. It takes more time than you think to develop a final draft for submission.
• Focus on your spelling, grammar, and vocabulary :  It’s important to present a well-written statement with good grammar and vocabulary. Write concrete, succinct sentences that flow well. Avoid flowery language. Visit the  Writing Center  for additional review and feedback.
• Proofread one more time:  Check your grammar and spelling again before submitting your final draft. Ask a friend, professor, or advisor to proofread your final draft one more time before sending it in. 

YOUR PERSONAL STATEMENT SHOULD ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

• Why do you want to complete further research in this field?  Write down a list of reasons as to why you are interested in pursuing further study in the field. When did you become interested in the field and what knowledge have you gained so far? Describe how your previous work provided the foundation and for further study.
• Why  have you  chosen to apply to this particular university ? Does the institution have a particular curriculum, special research facilities/equipment, or interesting research that appeal to you?
• What are your strengths ? Demonstrate how you stand out from other candidates. Highlight relevant projects, dissertations thesis or essays that demonstrate your academic skills and creativity. Include IT skills, research techniques, awards, or relevant traveling/ study abroad experience.
• What are your transferable skills?  Be sure to emphasize transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management skills. Give examples of how you have demonstrated each of these with specific examples.
• How does this program align with your career goals?  It’s okay if you don’t know the exact career path you plan to take after completing your PhD. Provide an idea of the direction you would like to take. This demonstrates commitment and dedication to the program.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For examples of successful personal statements, visit the  Online Writing Lab (OWL) .

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Writing an Effective Personal Statement for PhD Graduate Programs

Personal statements should be a reflection of your academic skills, success, and goals.

By Kaela Singleton Doctoral Candidate in Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience

A personal statement is one of the most important components of any doctoral graduate school application. This post will guide you with some general steps to get you started with generating a personal statement that is concise, reflects your academic success, and emphasizes your goals for graduate school. The individual graduate programs will provide writing prompts that detail exactly what you should address in your statement, so be sure you touch on everything that they want you to cover!

Before you start writing

• Update your CV:  Having a complete list of your accomplishments will make it easier to include and exclude information from your personal statement. Your CV can be used as a timeline of your achievements, and therefore an outline to how your past experiences have prepared you for graduate school. For guidance on CV writing, see  7 Tips for Writing a Successful CV.
• Research Graduate Schools of Interest:  Gain insight into the coursework, faculty, and student life for each program you are considering. Using the program website, generate a list of qualities that appeal to you about each school you’re applying to. Emphasize how and why these qualities contribute to your decision to apply to this program. This list should include research and faculty members that interest you as well as any other pros (i.e. location, cohort size, post-graduate jobs etc.)
• Create a team of editors:  Your personal statement will be read by faculty members and graduate students studying different topics within the program. Therefore, your personal statement should be compelling to a broad audience. Ask peers, mentors and advisors from various disciplines well in advance to edit and provide feedback on your statement.

Now start writing

Introduction.

The goal is to engage your reader with a quick synopsis of who you are, what you want out of graduate school, and your qualifications to join this specific program.

• Introduce yourself and identify your academic interests:  Provide a brief introduction of yourself and your academic interests. If you have a personal anecdote that explains how you became interested in science and research, start there. These “narrative hook” anecdotes engage the reader and set up a great platform to describe the motivation behind your experiences. Then go into your academic interests, which can be a couple of sentences broadly stating your research interests.  
• Emphasize your skills and overall goals:  Use both your research on the program and CV to highlight how your skill set will complement and grow from participation in this program. Speak in broad terms, showcasing how your goals align with the overall mission of the program.

THE BODY PARAGRAPHS

The goal is to expand on the points you mentioned within the introduction. Provide concrete examples of how past and present experiences led you to writing this application.

• Explain how you became interested in your particular scientific field:  Highlight key moments that encouraged you to apply to graduate school. This can be the very start of your interests in the field or from skills and knowledge that you gained from internships, research experiences, or coursework and class discussions.
• Describe your prior research experiences and importantly what you learned from each experience:  Provide a past experience where you used and developed a new skill that is pertinent to your ability to conduct research. Be sure to explain how this skill will be useful for your future in graduate school. It is critical to discuss what you learned from experience and to be as specific and concise as possible.  For example: I worked with Dr. A at institution B. My work focused on C. The project entailed D, E and F techniques. From this experience, I learned G. This taught me F about my decision to attend graduate school. 

In the conclusion paragraph, you should discuss what you learned about the graduate school program that you are applying for. Highlight specific faculty members or courses listed that excite you, and re-emphasize your goals.

• Summarize your qualifications and experiences:  Bring everything together here. Emphasize the skills you currently have and how joining this program will aide in continuing your success. 
• Personalize:  In this final paragraph, include specific faculty and program qualities that appeal to you as an applicant. Show that you have researched specific faculty or courses that will aide in your future training. Also be sure to discuss your career goals. 
• Edit:  Proofread and edit. Send your statement out to friends, faculty advisors, and people outside of your discipline. 

Personal statements should tell your story and be compelling across fields. Remember that a PhD program trains you to build and utilize scientific skills to advance research. You won’t want to try to convince the reader that you’ll cure cancer or discover the flu vaccine. Instead, focus on persuading readers that graduate training is right for you, and that the accompanying enrichment of your research skillset will help you reach your academic and professional goals.

More Career Advice

Learn from faculty, staff, postdocs, students and alumni through our Career Catalyst blog.

How to Write a Biology Personal Statement Worthy of Oxbridge!

By U2 Tutor, Holly (Cambridge Biological Natural Sciences graduate and current Graduate Medic at St George’s Hospital Medical School)

Writing a personal statement can be overwhelming - there’s so much pressure to ‘sell yourself’ to the universities in just 4000 characters. In this blog we’ll discuss how to structure your personal statement, as well as tips to simplify the writing process and make your personal statement stand out.

How to Structure your Biology Personal Statement

Paragraph 1: This should be motivation focused i.e. why you want to do Biology above any other course.

Paragraph 2: This should demonstrate your aptitude for the course - explore what you have done so far and the skills you’ve gained from it, in order to show that you’re suited to university learning.

Paragraph 3: This should be a continuation of paragraph 2, ideally discussing some other areas of biology or other skills.

Paragraph 4: Brief discussion of extra-curriculars, but only if they also demonstrate skills which suit you to the course.

Writing the Perfect Biology Personal Statement Introduction

If you take anything from this guide, it’s to avoid clichés! The most important thing you can do is convey your genuine interest in the subject, and saying you’ve wanted to do biology since you were a child isn’t the way to do this (even if it is the case). Equally, try not to exaggerate with your wording, as this can also come across as less authentic. Just try and explain your motivations clearly and honestly, and focus on showing this motivation through your experiences and beyond syllabus knowledge.

Writing the opening sentence can be the hardest part, so is often best left until the end . There’s a misconception that you have to write a captivating, attention-grabbing opening sentence - this isn’t the case, especially not for the sciences! It’s completely fine to start simply, such as with ‘I was first drawn to Biology when I studied x…’ and go from there. Remember you have a character limit, so it’s best to just go straight in!

Forming a First Draft of Your Personal Statement

Don’t put pressure on yourself to write a full draft on your first attempt. There will be lots of redrafting and restructuring and that’s okay! Give yourself plenty of time to allow for this.

The best way to start is to write down everything you want to include in your personal statement - include everything you can think of from an academic and extra-curricular perspective. Try not to include anything beyond the last few years, as this is unlikely to be relevant . For each point, determine what skills you gained from these experiences and what you learnt from them .

Then compare this to the skills/ qualities most sought after for the courses you’re applying to (this is likely to be very similar between universities). Whilst it can seem overwhelming at first, it’s a quick way of narrowing down what is worth including in your personal statement. From there you can work out how to elaborate on these experiences. Try to group them together in themes if possible, so that you can organise your paragraphs accordingly.

Ideas to Show Your Interest

You might be thinking that your list of things to include in your personal statement is going to be rather short - you hopefully have plenty of time to rectify that! If you’ve not yet had a chance, it’s important to explore Biology in more depth - this is to distinguish you from your classmates doing the same subjects. Remember the universities will also see your grades through UCAS, so you’re wasting some of the precious word count by mentioning these. Instead, you need to discuss co-curriculars - evidence that you’ve explored the subject and have a genuine interest. Try and find 2-3 broad areas of Biology that you’re interested in and ideally match with some of the modules offered as part of the courses you’re applying to . There are plenty of ways you can do this…

Books - these have been divided into some broad topics within some of the popular Biology courses:

Biomedical:

Do No Harm - Henry Marsh

Fragile Lives - Stephen Westaby

The Body: A Guide for Occupants - Bill Bryson

The Selfish Gene - Richard Dawkins,

The Epigenetics Revolution - Nessa Carey

Genome - Matt Ridley

Psychology:

Any of Oliver Sacks books, particularly The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat or Awakenings

The Psychopath Test - Jon Ronson

On the Origin of Species - Charles Darwin

Sapiens - Yuval Noah Harari

Epigenetics: The Wisdom of Whores - Elizabeth Pisani

Cognitive sciences: Daniel Kahneman - Thinking, Fast and Slow

Essay competitions

There are yearly competitions hosted by Minds Underground to allow you to explore topics you might not have encountered before.

Many Oxbridge colleges also run their own essay competitions , as well as biological societies e.g. Royal Society of Biology and British Society for Cell Biology . Essay competitions are particularly relevant to Oxbridge applications as supervisions often require you to write similar essays.

Biology Work Experience

It can be useful to get work experience, such as in a lab, but don’t feel like this is an essential - universities understand it can be very difficult to find, especially in the post-covid era. If you do have experience, be careful not to just list what you did during work experience. Focus on the skills you gained, and how you could use these at university e.g. familiarity with different lab-based techniques.

Research Projects (Minds Underground)

Similar to Extended Projects offered by some schools, you could write your own research project exploring a topic of your choice. It can be difficult to decide on a title - it might be easier to use your A-level content as a springboard, and design a project to investigate something you’ve learnt about. For example, you could design a literature review to analyse existing research on a topic, in order to identify gaps in current research and inform future research opportunities. You could also design your own experiment (although there obviously limits to this!) such as investigating conditions needed by different plants.

Minds Underground can guide you through this with a Biology expert… https://www.mindsunderground.com/work-research-experience

Biology Summer School (Minds Underground)

Summer schools can be an exciting way to get a taster of a variety of different university level biology subjects, from genetic engineering and cancer therapies to ecology and behaviour. Minds Underground hosts an amazing Biology summer school run by Oxbridge graduates, allowing you to broaden your knowledge of Biology whilst gaining useful personal statement and interview material.

Talks and podcasts

Online lectures can also give you a taste of university courses - these are widely available from universities and sites such as Ted Talks . Podcasts are increasingly popular, and are an easy way to keep up to date with current development in Biology. We recommend The Infinite Monkey Cage (less Biology specific, but very interesting!) and Radiolab .

Extra-curriculars

In the past there’s been a focus on the ‘all rounder’: someone who is academic, musical and sporty. This is not really the case any more, and so extracurriculars shouldn’t take up a significant proportion of your personal statement. The purpose of mentioning these should be to show what skills you’ve gained, and how you could apply these to your course or university life. For example, your weekly football match could have helped develop your team working skills and communication skills, something which is essential in a lab environment. Equally, it could allow you to switch off for a few hours and maintain your high work ethic - this is just as important, as universities (particularly high achieving ones) increasingly want to see that you can maintain a work-life balance.

Applying to Oxford for Biology? Here’s What You Should Also Do

To craft a standout personal statement for Oxford Biological Sciences specifically, it can be helpful to gear your personal statement to specific qualities and details that the university values. Here are some tips to enhance your Biology personal statement with an application for Oxford in mind:

1. Demonstrate Academic Rigour:

Highlight your passion for biology through academic achievements, relevant coursework, and independent research.

Discuss specific topics or scientific concepts that have captivated your interest and showcase your understanding of advanced material. You could have a look through the 1st year Oxford Biology modules and see if anything you have explored links to material you may cover at the university.

2. Emphasise Independent Thinking:

Discuss instances where you've independently pursued scientific inquiry or engaged in co-curricular activities related to biology.

Oxford values students who can think critically and contribute to discussions, so emphasise your ability to approach problems independently.

3. Reflect on Your Reading:

As detailed above, mention books, articles, or research papers that have influenced your understanding of biology. However, don’t just list them - make sure you give your independent analysis and opinion on everything you have included in your personal statement.

Oxford is known for its tutorial system, and demonstrating that you've engaged with challenging material beyond the standard curriculum can set you apart.

4. Discuss Your Practical Skills:

Describe any laboratory work, experiments, or field studies you've been involved in.

Showcasing hands-on experience is crucial, as it aligns with Oxford's emphasis on practical learning.

5. Showcase Interdisciplinary Interests:

Oxford appreciates interdisciplinary approaches. If your interest in biology connects with other disciplines, explain how and why.

Mention any relevant projects or coursework that spans multiple scientific domains.

6. Make It Personal and Reflective:

Share personal anecdotes or experiences that sparked your interest in biology.

Reflect on how your unique background or experiences contribute to your perspective as a future biologist.

7. Highlight Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:

Illustrate instances where you've had to think critically, solve problems, or overcome challenges.

Oxford seeks students who can navigate complex issues and contribute meaningfully to academic discussions.

8. Address Your Motivation for Oxford:

Clearly articulate why you want to study biology at Oxford specifically, without mentioning the university explicitly as the personal statement also needs to be relevant to your other university choices.

Discuss the aspects of the Oxford programme (again, without mentioning the university explicitly) that appeal to you and how it aligns with your long-term goals.

9. Prepare for Interview Discussion:

Anticipate questions that might arise from your personal statement and be ready to discuss your ideas in-depth.

Consider how your experiences and perspectives can contribute to academic discussions at Oxford.

A standout personal statement for Oxford is not just a list of achievements but a narrative that demonstrates intellectual curiosity, a passion for biology, and the potential to thrive in Oxford's academic environment. View the personal statement as a springboard for engaging discussions during interviews!

Biological Science Personal Statement Example

Siddhartha Mukherjee's "The Gene: An Intimate History" ignited a profound curiosity in the intricate tapestry of genetic inheritance and molecular mechanisms. Mukherjee's narrative skilfully brought to life the historical context and societal impact of genetics, serving as a catalyst that fuelled my exploration into the foundational works of molecular biology. Inspired by Mukherjee's narrative, I expanded my exploration of genetics through literature, delving into Carl Zimmer's "She Has Her Mother's Laugh." This broadened my perspective on the broader implications of genetic inheritance, touching on topics from heredity and evolution to the societal impact of genetic discoveries. Zimmer's adept blend of scientific rigour and accessible storytelling not only deepened my understanding of genetics but also prompted me to critically analyse the ethical implications of manipulating genetic information, shaping my conviction to approach the rapidly advancing field of genetics with a thoughtful consideration of its societal ramifications. In delving into Watson and Crick's seminal paper on the structure of DNA, I also found myself captivated by the meticulous unravelling of the double helix. This exploration propelled me beyond textbook learning into an understanding of the molecular foundations that govern life. This foundational knowledge took on practical significance as I engaged in a genetic engineering project that utilised CRISPR-Cas9 technology to manipulate bacterial DNA. . This hands-on experience not only solidified my laboratory skills but also deepened my appreciation for the practical implications of gene editing, fueling my commitment to ethical scientific practices. I learn about the delicate balance between scientific innovation and responsible ethical practices, shaping my perspective on the potential impacts of cutting-edge technologies in the biological sciences. This awareness was further honed during a summer school class dedicated to the revolutionary CRISPR technology. Here, I explored the nuances of gene editing's potential applications, ethical implications, and the ongoing discourse in the scientific community. This exploration sparked a particular interest in the potential application of CRISPR technology for targeted gene therapy, a revolutionary avenue with transformative implications for treating genetic disorders at the molecular level. This newfound fascination with gene therapy, particularly in the context of CRISPR technology, has propelled my desire to contribute to the evolving landscape of biomedical research and therapeutic interventions, further solidifying my commitment to exploring the intersection of cutting-edge science and ethical considerations. My interest in biology extended beyond the microscopic realm into the intricate interplay of species within ecological systems. I recently watched an online lecture on ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity, which delved into the relationships that shape ecosystems. This exploration found resonance in a podcast episode titled "Ecology in Action," where real-world ecological projects illuminated the practical applications of ecological principles I had studied. I am particularly interested in the study of symbiotic relationships in ecosystems, exploring how mutualistic interactions between species contribute to the resilience and sustainability of ecological communities—a concept that I find particularly fascinating for its broader implications in conservation biology and ecosystem management. Each aspect of my exploration into the world of biology has added a layer to my understanding, creating a solid foundation for further academic pursuits and a future dedicated to advancing the frontiers of biological knowledge.

Looking for a Personal Statement Tutor or Support For Your Wider Biology or Biological Natural Sciences Application?

Biology personal statement support.

U2’s Oxbridge-educated mentors have a close insight into what admissions tutors like to see in a Biology personal statement, and can help students to convey their skills, motivations, and long term goals, in order to stand out from other applicants. The statement should be the candidates own work, but our mentors will provide direction and guide you through the process of content building and writing. We offer offline drafting as well as tuition sessions.

Oxbridge Biology Tuition

We offer Oxbridge Mentoring for students looking for support throughout the application process (book a free consultation to discuss options). We have a large team of Oxford Biology and Cambridge Biological Natural Sciences tutors including 1st Class, Master’s and PhD level graduates.

The Process:

1) We suggest an Oxbridge-educated Biology tutor and send their full CV for review. Our mentors are deeply familiar with the admissions process to study Biology at Oxford and Cambridge Biological Natural Sciences, and are well-placed to guide you through Biology personal statement curation and the interview process. We may suggest a range of application tutors to choose from with slightly differing rates depending on qualifications and level of experience.

2) We typically suggest beginning with a 1.5 hour diagnostic session , where the tutor will informally assess the student’s current performance level for application. Following this, we issue a report with feedback, and structure a plan to best prepare.

3) U2’s approach for regular Biology application sessions: The main focus of tutorial sessions will be to explore material that can be discussed in the personal statement and at interview - this may sometimes stretch from A-Level standard to First Year Undergraduate. Mentors ensure each student refines their interests within Biology, and is exposed to a range of key concepts and topics.

Frequency of sessions can be decided between student and tutor. Students can take either ad hoc sessions, or we structure a full programme for preparation, which may include further co-curricular opportunities such as our research projects , Biology Summer School and Oxbridge mock interview days . Honing the skills necessary to succeed for Oxbridge ideally requires long-term preparation and mentoring presents a wonderful opportunity to learn from some of the very best Oxbridge has produced.

Sessions from £75/h + VAT.

Your Ultimate Guide to the Oxbridge Admissions Process

How to write a biomedical science personal statement.

POMONA COLLEGE

• Application Process
• Common Questions
• Useful Resources

Graduate Application Process

Writing a strong personal statement.

• You should begin a draft of your personal statement the summer before you are applying to graduate school.
• Finalize your draft in September and have your faculty advisor and other close faculty read your essay.
• Spend the rest of September and some of October revising your essay and writing different versions tailored to each school.
• Make your essay sincere but unique by mentioning how you found your own research opportunity, or published a paper when you were an undergraduate, or used a really awesome new technology that inspired you to continue doing research.
• Your most important research projects in brief.  Explain the question(s) you addressed and what you accomplished.  Don’t be afraid to mention that your project didn’t work.  Graduate schools understand the trials and tribulations of research and above all respect honesty.
• Your goals in graduate school and after you receive your doctorate.
• Why you became interested in science and why you want to follow a research career in the immediate future.
• Any professors that you are interested in working with, why you find their research interesting, and possibly a future project based on their current works.
• Explain any discrepancies in your GRE scores, transcript, or disciplinary record.  If you have anything that really stands out, give a simple explanation for what happened.

^Back to Top

• Avoid excessive detail on your personal background or research as well as flowery and verbose writing.  You have limited space; complicated vocabulary or sentence structure will detract from the important points of your statement and won’t impress anyone.
• If you are interested in getting a job in industry after you get your Ph.D., it is not wise to blatantly state that in your essay.  Graduate programs want a significant number of their students to become faculty, so it is safer to mention that you are interested in continuing research post graduate school.
• Don’t write anything that indicates you aren’t sure about graduate school.  If a school knows that you are highly qualified, but feels that you are just applying to have options after college, not because you truly want to attend their program, they will be disinclined to offer you admission. 
• The length of your statement depends on what is specified in each application.  Thus you cannot get away with writing one personal statement and use it for every application.  Typically schools ask you to write a personal statement that is 1000-2000 characters long.
• Make sure to carefully proof read your personal statement.  Typos or grammar mistakes make your essay seem sloppy and easily turn off your reader.  Have friends, faculty, or parents proof read your essay for typos. 
• Look online for sample essays to view examples of strong personal statements.
• Taylor your essay to each program.  You can include the core of your original essay for each school, but add an additional paragraph or two detailing why you want to attend that specific school, why you would thrive there, what professors you are interested in, etc. 
• Most applications have one or two supplemental essays.  For instance, some schools ask you to explain your research in more detail, while others ask you to explain how you think you will fit into their program with respect to the students, faculty, and school community.

In this section:

When should I start writing?

What should I include?

What not to include?

How long should it be?

Supplemental essays

Application Process Links:

Choosing Programs

Application Content

Sample Checklist/Deadline Spreadsheets

Personal Statement

Recommendations

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Personal Statement for PhD in Biological Sciences

• October 18, 2023
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Struggling to create a winning personal statement for PhD in biological sciences? Not getting the right words and formats to express your stories the way you want? Worried that your admission might get affected with the current personal statement you have for PhD in biological sciences?

But worry no more. Our team of experienced writers can help you create original and creative  personal statements for PhD  in biological sciences for your admission. With the right format and structure the statement will add great value to your application.

We have been working in the field for over a decade now. This has helped us learn about the challenges of  writing a personal statement  for PhD in biological sciences and how it needs to be formatted. Hence, we take your unique stories and blend the same with your vision and our creative capabilities so that you can win admission.

• What Is a Biology PhD Personal Statement ?

HOW TO WRITE A PERSONAL STATEMENT FOR PHD IN BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES?

Understanding the purpose of personal statement biology phd, what should i include in my biological sciences personal statement.

• Format of Personal Statement for PhD in Biology Science

How To Choose the Best Writer for Personal Statement for PhD in Biological Science?

• WHY CHOOSE OUR PERSONAL STATEMENTS FOR PHD IN BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES?

What Is a Biology PhD Personal Statement?

A personal statement for PhD in Biology is a document you will submit in order to secure admission to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in biology. Given that it is the most advanced program in the specific domain of biology, a carefully crafted personal statement showing how much you are motivated to choose it needs to be included. In the personal statement, you will touch upon various aspects such as your relevant academic and professional background, achievements or recognition, unique skills, goals, etc. All of these need to align with your choice of PhD in biology.  

One of the most important aspects of writing a personal statement for PhD in biological sciences is getting its focus right. The statement naturally has to explain what makes the student apt for the course and why she/he wants to do that.Once you get this sorted, the rest of the statement is relatively easy to create. You then need to choose the best format as preferred by the university.Having worked with various students looking for the best personal statement for PhD in biological sciences, we know how to do that professionally. We collect unique info about your career, academics, and aspirations to bring the most personalized feel to the statement. This will surely impress the admission committee.

Further, if you wish to learn a few tip to write a statement, here is a few:

• Decide on what you want to include in the statement
• Learn about the requirements of your potential university
• Have all the details you need with you before starting to write
• Choose an optimistic and confident tone of voice with the statement
• Talk about your experiences that drew you closer to biological sciences
• Explain your career goals and aspirations in the biology field

While these tips may not sound too sophisticated, they can help you take care of the most important thing in any statement—the basics. Once you follow these, you will not search online for sample personal statements for PhD in biological sciences.

Is Writing Biological Sciences Personal Statement Worrying You?

Are you worried about writing your biological science personal statement ? Remember that you are not alone in the boat. Almost every candidate struggles with it. But that won’t be a reason anymore for causing rejection of your application. We at SOP Consultants offer expert help in drafting biology personal statement in PhD and many other programs. We help you adhere to the right format, structure, tone and word count, improving your selection chances. 

Why Is Biology PhD Personal Statement So Important in Admission?

It is true that your biology PhD personal statement can either make or break your admission chances. From verifying your application to figuring out your academic goals, a well-written document like the biological sciences personal statement example can aid selection officers in multiple ways. It can also aid you in presenting yourself convincingly.

Role of Personal Statement in PhD Biology Application

A well-crafted personal statement holds significant importance alongside a completed application form when applying for a PhD program. Admission committees consider it a valuable tool to gain insight into your unique qualities and qualifications. A compelling personal statement can potentially expedite the initial review process, increasing your chances of advancing to the next stage of the admission process.

How Does PhD in Biological Science Statement Prove Your Fitness for The Program?

As evident from the biological sciences personal statement example, this document not only speaks about your skills but also provides contextual examples to prove them. This makes it easier for the admission officers to learn about your fitness and aptness for the PhD in biology program.

To make it comprehensive and complete, you must include the following details in your personal statement for Biology PhD.

Your academic background

Briefly talk about your previous academic details such as what you studied, and how it connects to and supports your choice of PhD in Biology.

Your professional history

If you have had any professional stint in a relevant field, include details of the same. Explain what your role was, how you contributed and what you gained.

Your motivation

Solidify your motivation for PhD in biological science. Answer possible questions like when and how you got interested in biology and realized that it was your career path.

Your research interests

Mention what specific research interests you have and how you are going to realize them. Highlight if any specific features of the program align with your interests.

Your career goals

As evident in biology personal statement examples, your career goals are those long-term and short-term goals you strive to achieve after the completion of your PhD. Mention them, explaining how the insights from the course expedite getting closer to them.

Format of Personal statement for phd in biology

Writing a strong statement like the PhD personal statement example biology that our professional writers draft comes with careful planning, in-depth knowledge of format and structure and more.

Decide what to write

Brainstorming is the first step in writing your personal statement. Unless you have clarity about what to write, things can be confusing. Read our biological sciences personal statement examples and then brainstorm for your own points.

Research your intended university's requirements

You must tailor your personal statement as per the institute’s unique requirements, format, guidelines and word count. So, getting to know more about your intended institute and these specific details is important.

Gather relevant and up-to-date details

Do not think that you can write anything that seems okay. It is important to furnish a 100% relevant and up-to-date personal statement. For that, any detail that you are going to add in it needs to be relevant and recent.

Use a positive and confident tone

A winning biology PhD personal statement is one that sounds positive and exudes the confidence level of the writer. A pessimistic personal statement can even cause the reader to doubt your motivation for the program.

Share experiences that led you to biology

Make your motivation sound compelling and convincing by sharing the unique experiences that led you to choose biology. It could be a groundbreaking study in the field of biology that made you become curious about the subject or a lecture or whatever.

Describe your career goals in the field of biology

Explain how you are planning to steer your career in the domain of biology. Do not write unrealistically but rather write in a more practical way. For instance, what you do immediately after the course and how you slowly get closer to your ultimate dream.

If you are looking to get your personal statement written as perfectly as an ideal biological sciences personal statement example, choose a skilled writer. Ensure that your writer has a thorough understanding of the personal statement writing tone, outstanding language proficiency and strong knowledge of biological science. We can pair you with a personal statement writer who embodies all these qualities.

Vasuki Ram, senior writer and the founder of SOP Consultants is a B-tech Graduate who used to work in an MNC. Starting from 2013, she along with her team has assisted more than 10,000 students. Shift in her career was drastic. Read full story here.

We Also offer Personal Statement For

• Master of Education
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• PhD in Computer Science
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• NYU Law School
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Why Choose Our Personal Statements for PhD in Biological Sciences?

Personal statements are extremely important for any PhD application. The case is similar with admission for PhD in biological sciences, as well. While a statement alone cannot win you admission, it can show the admission committee what makes a student ideal for the field and their institution.

But most students have trouble choosing the right service provider, too, when it comes to writing a personal statement for a PhD in biological sciences. Although there are experienced personal statement writers, students have trouble picking the right one.

However, we come with a bevvy of unique service qualities that address the most important expectations of a student regarding personal statements. Here are they:

An Incredibly Talented Team

We are proud of the team that we have. The team has been made after extensive vetting and evaluations of exceptional talents in the industry. The team has skilled and qualified professionals fortified with the right insights, qualifications and commitment to help the students win admission for a PhD in biological sciences.

World-Class Quality Benchmarks

Most of the time, the personal statements that we write for PhD in biological sciences are for international institutions. Hence, they have to compete with the statements written by students from around the world. Our extensive quality benchmarks and review systems help us do that effortlessly.

Our Industry Exposure and Insights

Thanks to our experience in the field for a decade, we have a deeper understanding of the industry and the university requirements. This helps us deliver better personal statements for PhD in biological science as they need it. Further, we also know what and not to include in the statement to make it all the more value-adding.

Tailor-Made Service Offerings

We know that each student has a different dream than others and the statement must reflect that to impress the admission committee. Hence, we provide each of our students with customized services as per their needs. This helps us meet each and every creative and quality expectations of the clients, at all times.

Affordable and Economic Service Support

In order to deliver exceptional value for the time and investments of the students with us, we deliver them economic services. We listen to the needs of the clients first and ascertain the scope of the project. Then we craft a bespoke package that can deliver them optimum value for their time with us.

Excellent Customer Care and Help

We know that students will have numerous questions regarding the format of the personal statement for PhD in biological sciences, its quality, and the structure. In order to solve all of that, we have a dedicated customer care line that can be called any time to get all the help you need as quickly as possible.

Hire Our Personal Statement Writing Help for PhD in Biological Sciences

One can undoubtedly say that a personal statement is an important factor that can decide the fate of a student’s PhD admission. An exceptional and engaging personal statement can bolster your chances of admission. That’s one of the major reasons personal statements are looked at with a degree of trepidation by the students.

With our expertise in the industry for a decade, we can take care of that for you. As you need, we can deliver the best personal statement for PhD admission.

Our team is capable of creating personal statements that are:

• Original and unique
• Creative and inventive
• High-quality and focused
• Written as per student’s vision
• Compliant with university guidelines

Our team of expert writers and editors will work with you to learn about your academic and professional stories. We will then craft these insights into the format preferred by the university with our creative ingenuity. Further, we deliver the personal statement for PhD in biological sciences in both PDF and Doc formats as you need.

If you would like to learn more about our personal statement writing services for PhD in biological science, you can speak to our client help desk.

We would love to hear from you. Contact us, now!

Avoid These Common Mistakes in Your Biology Personal Statement in PhD

A personal statement with the following mistakes has all the chances to unimpressed the selection panel. So, steer clear of them while finalizing your document.

Lack of focus

If your document doesn’t stay focused, it can confuse the reader.

Write each paragraph centred on the theme.

Errors spoil the overall reading experience.

Proofread your document several times to rectify all errors.

General statements or examples can make your statement look uninspiring.

Use fresh thoughts, for instance, anecdotes or past experiences of your own.

Contradictions

Contradictions with data in other documents may cause suspicion.

Verify your personal statement’s agreement with other documents.

Tips For Adding Professionalism to Personal Statement PhD Biology

Here are a few pro tips from our experts to add professionalism and write a perfect biology PhD personal statement.

• Read at least two biological sciences personal statement examples to enhance your perspective.
• Start preparation for your personal statement at least three weeks ahead of the submission deadline.
• Enhance your understanding of the specialization topic in Biology through reading and research.
• Get feedback on your biological sciences personal statement from two to three individuals in a related field.

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Biology Personal Statement Advice

Your Biology personal statement is the pièce de résistance of your UCAS application. Though the rest of the application is obviously important, your Biology personal statement is the real make or break moment for most students. With a Biology personal statement, universities are always looking for students who have a real and vested interest in the subject they’re applying for. Passion and love for the subject will always sell you to universities much better than grades can. Remember, grades are what allow you to apply for the university, the personal statement is what gets you the place! A lot of students can initially feel a little overwhelmed by the task of writing about themselves. Don’t worry, this is a perfectly natural thing for a student to feel. We therefore recommend that before you start writing your Biology personal statement, you start looking through some Biology personal statement examples beforehand. Your statement doesn't need to be War and Peace, it just needs to be a concise and comprehensive collection of information about you and your passions. Talk about your love of Biology and what prompted your interest in the subject. If you're still struggling after looking at some Biology personal statement examples, then we recommend looking to include these three elements in your Biology personal statement: Your passion for Biology. Anything you've done that is related to the subject. Your work or study achievements. Make sure that whatever you're writing links into Biology and your passion for it!

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Cell and molecular biology Ph.D personal statement

• Reading time: 3 minutes
• Price: Free download
• Published: 11th October 2021
• File format: Text

Biology has always been a fascination and more of a miracle to me from my childhood. It is the science of life because it concerns about the microscopic structures of the living organism and how they interact with each other to give raise its properties.  At the school level, I exposed to major concepts of biology such as cell, genes, deoxyribonucleic acid, and protein. I used to read about their important roles in an organism and I never understood how these smallest components affect the most significant components in our body. Moreover, I questioned myself as well how these molecules could control our health & illness and how they could help us in curing numerous diseases. In addition to that, being in the biology lab preparing the tools and the substances for an experiment was the most enjoyable activities during my high school.  All these thoughts and feelings lead me to decide that I should pursue my education in clinical laboratory science.

I successfully got admission into King Saud University where I graduated from the college of applied medical science, clinical laboratory science with first class honor; overall grade 4.98 out of 5. In college, I have been exposed to many fields of study that expounded to me the myths and mysteries of life such as biochemistry, microbiology, environmental microbiology, genetics, immunology, and enzymology. However, these courses introduced me to new questions that made me more curious about the inner life of cells. My insatiable thirst for delving deep into these subjects has inspired me to pursue a graduate career in cell and molecular biology because it will give me the opportunity to study the basic processes that run life’s playbook.

My graduation project was a literature review about “The Correlation between Human Papillomaviruses Infection and Infertility in Male”; manly discusses the significant role of human papillomaviruses in male fertility since it alters the sperms parameters. During this project; I learned the international standards of writing a literature review and referencing. In addition to that, I learned how to work on Endnote program and discussing my thesis in front of my Professors. As a result of perfect academic record, I won the dean’s list award which I considered it as a sign that means I am on the right path. After my graduation, I started my Internship at King Khalid University Hospital where I spent one year in routine and special laboratories. This program gave me a great opportunity to develop my technical and mechanical skills. Simultaneously, I volunteer with CLS club to give sessions through their snapchat account. Subsequently, I participated with a team to write a booklet about medical laboratory tests which is known as “Way to Medical Lab Test World”. This booklet will be published in cooperation with Saudi Ministry of Health.

Apart from my curriculum, I have good leadership skill and good teamwork abilities. I also have the enthusiasm to learn about life and its ambiguities. Life taught me to be a hardworking person to reach my goals and achieve my dreams.

After receiving my Bachelor’s degree, I know I want to be in a research center to help humanity in solving many lethal issues, especially the genetic problems. I also want to publish lots of landmark research in different scientific journals. Also, I would like to work in the academic field after completing my degree because the joy of teaching other is indescribable. My long-term goals are to work for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

My search for the best match of objective, passions, and dreams has ended at King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST) with the best of fundamental research in all avenues of bioscience.  When I visited the university website, I was fascinated with the research works that are carried out by KAUST which match my interest in the same line. Moreover, having a prestigious university like KAUST in the Middle East that allows us to conduct researches that suitable to our area made more excited to apply. KAUST gives me hope and makes me more confident in realizing my goal which trains myself thoroughly through the M.S program and proceeds further to a Ph.D. in cell and molecular biology. I am sure that the M.S/ Ph.D. in KAUST will definitely widen the horizons of my knowledge and help me obtain a milestone in my career.

In conclusion, I request you to consider my application favorably and provide me an opportunity to pursue my higher studies at your esteemed university.

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We welcome applications from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. To qualify for admission, applicants must demonstrate strong enthusiasm and ability for the vigorous pursuit of scientific knowledge. Minimal requirements include a bachelor’s degree and undergraduate preparation in the sciences. Strong consideration is given to letters of recommendation, particularly to comments from individuals who have firsthand knowledge of your research experience. We do not require GRE scores and we do not use numerical cutoffs (e.g., GPA). We conduct in-person interviews as part of our application process and invitations for interviews are usually sent out mid-December. Please contact Danny Gonzalez for all admissions-related questions.  2024 Interview Weekends 1st Interview Weekend January 25 - 28, 2024 Interviews conducted on Friday, January 26 2nd Interview Weekend February 8 - 11, 2024 Interviews conducted on Friday, February 9, 2024 Please contact Anne O'Shea for all Interview Weekend questions.  

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Students apply to a program and once admitted, perform lab rotations during their first year in order to select a dissertation advisor. Students do not need to secure a dissertation advisor prior to applying.

Most applicants apply to one program, and we strongly recommend this targeted approach. While prospective students are encouraged to carefully choose the program that best fits their academic goals, interested applicants may apply to up to three HILS programs and pay only one application fee. If you elect to apply to three programs, only two may be programs in the Department of Medical Sciences. Each application must be unique, containing a tailored statement of purpose and separate recommendations.  *Please note that an individual may submit up to three applications during the course of their academic career to the Harvard Kenneth C Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences of which we are a member. Applications to  HILS affiliated programs  count toward the limit of three. The submission of additional applications may result in the withdrawal of the application.

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A Guide to Writing Biology Master’s Personal Statement Example

Table of Contents

When it comes to writing a personal statement for a Master’s in Biology, you may be wondering where to start. How do you sum up your entire academic career and experience in just a few paragraphs? And most importantly, what should you include to ensure that the admission committee pays attention to your application?

This article outlines a biology master’s personal statement example to get you started on your personal statement and provides tips to make it effective.

What Is a Biology Master’s Personal Statement?

A biology master’s personal statement is a document that students write to accompany their applications for admission into graduate-level programs in the biological sciences. The purpose of a personal statement is to give admissions officers an overview of an applicant’s academic and research experiences. It also conveys a candidate’s motivation for pursuing a particular degree.

In writing a biology master’s personal statement, you must be specific about why you are interested in studying biology. Explain what you hope to gain from earning your master’s degree. You should highlight any relevant coursework or research experience that you have had.

Why Is a Biology Masters Personal Statement Important?

A personal statement is a critical component of an application to a Master’s in Biology program. The statement allows applicants to provide context for their academic and research backgrounds . It also lets candidates share their motivations for pursuing graduate study in biology.

Specifically, the statement allows admission committees to evaluate an applicant’s written communication skills and scientific reasoning ability. A thoughtfully composed personal statement can differentiate a strong application from others. And thus, it increases the chance of being admitted into a competitive graduate program.

Tips to Write a Biology Masters Personal Statement

When writing your personal statement for a biology master’s program, it is essential to keep the following in mind:

• Make sure your statement is clear and error-free in its writing. This document will be one of the first things that reviewers see, so make sure it represents you in the best light possible.
• Be specific about why you are interested in studying biology at the graduate level. What interests you about this field? What makes you desire to pursue this career?
• Show off your academic strengths and accomplishments. Highlight any research projects or publications you have been involved with and any awards or scholarships you may have received.
• Discuss how your experience has prepared you for a career in biology. What skills and knowledge do you possess that would enable you to take on advanced coursework in this field?
• Express your excitement about the opportunity to study biology at the graduate level and why you believe this program is ideal for you!

Biology Master’s Personal Statement Example

Below is an effective biology master’s personal statement example that you can use as inspiration for writing one on your own:

Personal Statement Sample

My interest in biology grew one summer when I volunteered at a research lab. I was working on extracting DNA from strawberries. And it fascinated me that we could study the genetic makeup of an organism by looking at a small piece of its DNA. Since then, I have been determined to pursue a career in biology.

During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to conduct independent research with Dr. X studying the effects of UV-B radiation exposure on Arctic char populations in Canada. This experience helped me develop critical thinking skills and gain laboratory experience, which will be invaluable as I continue my education in molecular sciences.

I have participated in coursework and extracurricular activities, such as Model UN conferences and volunteering with extinction prevention NGOs. And I have developed strong communication and problem-solving skills, which will benefit me as a scientist. In addition, my passion for conservation drives me to work towards creating solutions for environmental problems. It makes me ideally suited for graduate study of Molecular Sciences, where these topics are explored more deeply.

From working with different scientists around the world, conducting original research, and taking numerous challenging courses tailored toward Biology majors. I believe that I am fully prepared to successfully pursue a Master’s degree in Molecular Sciences at the prestigious [University name].

Your personal statement is a lasting reflection of your personality, values, and ambitions . When applying to graduate school, provide the admission committee with an overview of your interest in the program and suitability for the course.

Your personal statement is an opportunity to demonstrate why you’re a good match for the course, and you shouldn’t miss it. This article provides effective tips and an example to help you write a personal statement for a biology Master’s degree.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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