RESOURCE TEXT
Interested in applying to top PhD programs in computational biology, systems biology, neuroscience, or related fields? Join the fourth session of our PhD Application Series, featuring two speakers currently pursuing PhDs at Stanford University and MIT.
They will share their application strategies, research experiences, school-selection process, interview preparation, and lessons learned throughout the PhD application cycle.
Date & Time
October 4 (Saturday) / October 5 (Sunday)
- Eastern Time (US): October 4, 8:00–9:00 PM
- Pacific Time (US): October 4, 5:00–6:00 PM
- Beijing Time: October 5, 8:00–9:00 AM
Speakers
Eric Liu | Stanford Computational & Systems Immunology
Eric received his undergraduate degree in Bioinformatics from the Zhejiang University–University of Edinburgh Institute. During the Fall 2025 application cycle, he applied directly to PhD programs in computational biology, biology, systems biology, and related fields.
He received interview invitations from 12 programs, including MIT, Stanford, and Caltech, and offers from the Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Computational Biology & Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and The Rockefeller University; the Duke University School of Medicine Genetics and Genomics PhD Program; and Stanford Computational & Systems Immunology, where he ultimately enrolled.
As an undergraduate, Eric conducted research at Zhejiang University, UCLA, and Princeton University. In this session, he will share his experiences navigating PhD applications, interviews, and program selection.
Daiddx | MIT Brain and Cognitive Sciences
Daiddx received his undergraduate degree from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. He participated in a one-month summer research program at the University of Manchester and completed a year-long undergraduate thesis project at NYU.
He is currently a PhD student in the Systems track of the MIT Brain and Cognitive Sciences PhD Program.
His key takeaway from the application process is simple: find a research area you genuinely care about, do your research well, and develop your own scientific insights.
About the Session
The session will include experience sharing followed by an open Q&A.
Topics will include, but are not limited to:
- Academic and research backgrounds
- School selection and application strategy
- Offers and program decision-making
- Personal statement and application materials
- PhD interview preparation and tips
- Developing research interests and scientific insights
Join the Session
Platform: Zoom
Meeting ID: 831 3007 5783
Passcode: 563017