Biology and Science, Personal Statement Example

My interest in biology and science dates back to my years in high school.  It was after a brief attendance at College that I entered the Bachelor of Science in General Biology at Pace University, NY in 2009.  I graduate in December 2011.  My degree course has confimed my interest in biological research and the direction I wish to chart for my future career.  I wish to work towards securing a position in the field of biological research and as such improve my educational credentials by the pursuit of a Masters or Doctoral degree program.  It was the death of my grandfather, resulting from a heart attack that influenced me in changing my major from psychology to that of biology.

I have already gained some practical work experience as follows: From 03/09 to date I have been working as a Laboratory Technician in the Biology Department of Pace University in New York.  Prior to this I was an Intern at the Inflammatory Immune Disease Centre at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, New York and a volunteer summer research assistant at the Developmental Biology program, Sloan-Kettering Institute, Rockefeller Research Laboratories, New York.

From the work experience I gained a considerable amount of relevant skill sets that includes items like:  preparation of lab’ material, solutions and microbiological media/cultures, gram staining and inoculating microorganisms, conducting inventories of lab’ supplies and chemicals, operating and maintaining, equipment and instruments, maintaining the lab, autoclaving microbiological cultures, sterilization of instruments and chemicals to name but a few.

When I began my undergraduate career I had the opportunity to become exposed to a range of activities in molecular biology and this intensified my research interests within this area. I am a very process driven person and I enjoy the systematic approach towards study that research presents. During the fall semester of 2011 I will be gaining further research experience by working with a University Professor, in his lab, conducting research in the field of genetics.

From an academic perspective I have gained some teaching experience, having tutored college students in the subject areas of Algebra and Trigonometry. Some of my grades are not indicative of my intellectual ability and I am capable of doing better than the 3.67 grade awarded in the Spring Semester.

I believe that pursuing a Masters and/or Doctoral degree program will help me to develop the important research skills that are required in order for me to achieve my career objectives of obtaining a position in the field of biological research. In addition I need the tuition and mentorship at postgraduate level in order to enhance and develop the depth and breadth of skills required.  I have developed a special interest in the field of molecular biology and I would like to focus my studies within that specific area.

I am looking at both Masters and Doctoral programs but ultimately I see the PhD as an end in itself and a professional stepping stone to the more prestigious research appointments. As such ultimately I would like to complete my studies at the level demanded by a PhD program.

I am fully aware of the excellent reputation that your school has in this area. Conversations with several of your alumni have deepened my interest in pursuing post-graduate studies at your institution.  I realise that in addition to the excellent faculty your computer and scientific facilities are amongst the best in the state. In addition your postgraduate degrees in Biology are highly valued by both the Academic and Scientific research community. In this regard I hope that you will give earnest consideration to my candidature for postgraduate study at your fine institution.