Help with decision.

[outdoorseytype]

Hello,

I have been accepted to Purdue University Biochemistry and Montana State University Molecular Biosciences. Both provide full funding (Purdue has 1 semester of TA, then RA the rest of the way through with a $22,550 stipend) (Montana offered me a fellowship with a $22,000 stipend). Both waive tuition. I like both places. Montana is beautiful and Purdue seems to have a solid reputation. I just wanted to see if anyone who is familiar with biochemistry programs could provide some input about which school would seem to help with getting a great postdoc upon graduation. I plan to do a postdoc and eventually do research at an academic institution and teach. I know publishing is everything, but am not entirely sure which school would best suit my needs.

Regards

[lil kiwi]

Unfortunately, I can't help you specifically with your question, but I thought I'd add something else you should consider...

You might want to look at not just the reputation and career options afterwards, but also at the 'fit' of the research you might be doing at either place. Are there many members of faculty in the specific field you're interested in? Are their interests well aligned with your own? These are the things I've been considering in my decision making process, and though I've not totally made up my mind, after carefully looking through various faculty's research again, I realised one place was a better "research fit" for me. You mentioned publishing, and I think doing research you are well prepared for, familiar with, and interested in will probably enhance your likelihood of publishing too.

Good luck with your choice!