Cornell seal
Back

Discover CALS

See how our current work and research is bringing new thinking and new solutions to some of today's biggest challenges.

Graduate Field of Plant Pathology & Plant Microbe Biology

Advancing understanding of pathogens and their control

    The Field of Plant Pathology focuses on all aspects of plant diseases and the biology of plant-microbe interactions at the molecular to ecosystem levels of organization. This Field is also the home for studying the biology, genetics and evolution of fungi and oomycetes.

    Overview

    The Field of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology (PPPMB) focuses on all aspects of plant diseases and the biology of plant-microbe interactions at the molecular to ecosystem levels of organization. This Field is also the home for studying the biology, genetics, and evolution of fungi and oomycetes. Most of the faculty advisors in the Field of PPPMB are affiliated with the Section of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology in the School of Integrative Plant Science.

    Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

    The Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section seeks highly motivated applicants with excellent academic credentials and a well-founded sense of purpose. Previous research experience is not essential but is often beneficial.

    An M.S. degree is not required to enter the Ph.D. degree program. A student in the Ph.D. program may petition to change to the M.S. program at any time. Likewise an M.S. candidate may petition to change to the Ph.D. program.

    Apply
    More about Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology

    Graduate Field Concentrations

    The MS/PhD Graduate Field of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology consists of three concentrations:

    • Plant Pathology
    • Plant-Microbe Biology
    • Fungal and Oomycete Biology
    woman seated beside a microscope

    MPS focus areas related to Plant Pathology

    Close up photo of a plant.

    Controlled Environment Agriculture

    One of the fastest growing areas of agriculture, is an advanced and intensive form of hydroponically-based agriculture. Plants are grown within a controlled environment so that horticultural practices can be optimized. This specialization emphasizes specific skills to understand lighting, hydroponic production, pest control, and horticultural aspects of production will be part of the program.

    Hemp Science

    Focused on the development of specific skills to understand plant breeding and genetics; hydroponic and field crop production; processing; food, fiber and medicinal applications; and product development. Students will also have a broad-based understanding of the industry from seed to sales, exploring the legal and regulatory environment and challenges facing the cannabis industry today and in the future.

    Viticulture

    Viticulture is the science, production and study of grapes. This specialization emphasizes knowledge development and hands-on experience. With Cornell’s ideal location in the Finger Lakes region – home to nearly 10,000 acres of vineyards – students will be exposed to every aspect of grape growing and wine making.

    Geospatial Applications

    Geospatial Applications is the use of modern tools to geographically map and analyze the Earth and human societies. This specialization provides education in the geospatial application, including GIS, to develop data management and decision-making skills for a wide range of geographical data. Students will also become licensed and experienced in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).

    Explore your opportunities

    A CALS education goes beyond the classroom and gives students frequent opportunities to apply what they learn in real-world settings.