Different Research Fields

[Microbio]

I will be applying to Immunology and Microbiology PhD programs. I have taken classes in these areas but my research is in physiology. Its a related area and basic research. I have several publication in this lab, have been there for 2.5 years, and have a given many presentations. 

Does it make me less competitive for my program since my undergrad research is in a slightly different field? If so, how much of a concern is this and would I be better off to do a post bac in a more related field before applying for my PhD. 

[fernandes]

Hi @Microbio, 

I am not in the Biosciences field, but I believe that this should apply to any field. Having publications, in general, is a really good thing if you are applying to a Ph.D. program at any university since it shows that you have had concrete research experience in the past. I don't think that changing your research focus for your Ph.D. would be a problem, but you should provide the university with an explanation of why you want to change your focus area. This can be done when writing your statement of purpose. I believe that all of the skills that you have learned in the other field within biology are somehow transferable to this new field, so it should still have a positive impact in your application.

Hope this helps.