Our mission is to advance scientific knowledge and to provide science-based information to improve the sustainability of food
and fiber production, protection of natural resources and the lives of all the people in Tennessee and across the world.
Overview
EPP students have the opportunities to study a range of topics related to plant pathology, entomology and bioinformatics. Our students conduct basic and applied research at every level, from molecules and genes, to individuals and populations, to species and communities.
We offer an M.S. degree with thesis and non-thesis options, and concentrations in Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Bioinformatics and Genomics. Our M.S. program provides students with the principles and research background for a career in the life sciences or for admission to Ph.D. programs.
We offer a Ph.D. degree with concentrations in Bioinformatics, Genomics, and Molecular Interactions; Organismal Biology, Ecology and Systematics; and Sustainable Disease and Integrated Pest Management Systems. Our graduates are competitive for positions at academic institutions, government agencies, agricultural industries and other private sector entities.
Entomology and Plant Pathology
Options include:
Applications for admission to the M.S. and Ph.D. programs in Entomology & Plant Pathology (EPP) are accepted once a year. The deadline for receipt of all application materials is February 1st for enrollment in the upcoming fall semester. Exceptions to this deadline for U.S. residents are considered on a case by case basis. Funding often is limited for those who wish to begin their studies in spring or summer semesters.
Students accepted into the EPP graduate program are not guaranteed funding and must identify an advisor before final acceptance. We do not have laboratory rotations. Interested students should contact advisors directly before applying.
Knoxville, Tennessee is a growing, vibrant community of more than 200,000 people with a variety of recreational and cultural activities to offer.
The Entomology and Plant Pathology Department is fully committed to a diverse, welcoming, and inclusive environment. We welcome students, postdoctoral research associates, visiting scholars and others regardless of age, appearance, disability status, gender, gender identity, geographic background, marital/partnered status, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation and all other characteristics that make each of us unique. We continually work to create an inclusive environment that reflects the diversity of society in general. We aim to cultivate an environment built on mentorship, encouragement, tolerance, and mutual respect. We believe diversity brings together a wide range of abilities, experiences, perspectives and worldviews that are crucial to enriching experiences and addressing challenging research questions.
Dr. Kevin Moulton
Director of Undergraduate Studies
2505 E.J. Chapman Drive
130 Plant Biotechnology Building
Knoxville, TN 37996
Phone: 865-974-8411
Email: jmoulton@utk.edu
E-mail generally will get a faster response.
Dr. Bonnie Ownley
Director of Graduate Studies
2505 E.J. Chapman Drive
370 Plant Biotechnology Building
Knoxville, TN 37996
Phone: 865-974-0219
Email: eppgrad1@utk.edu
