Current Students

Advising Resources

Graduate students in Plant & Microbial Biology have access to a wide range of advising and support resources throughout their program. Advising is a team effort, with staff and faculty providing guidance on academics, teaching, administrative processes, and professional development. 

The Head Graduate Adviser guides first-semester students through lab rotation selections and placements, partners with graduate advisors on exceptions and student-related issues, and oversees student progress, enrollment, degrees, and committee appointments. 

Graduate Student Affairs Officers (GSAOs) provide advocacy, referrals to campus resources, academic advising to help students navigate course conflicts and program requirements, and consultation on funding packages. 

Equity Advisers support inclusion, equity, and mentoring challenges, while the GSI Adviser provides guidance on teaching and advocates for Graduate Student Instructors. 

Peer Mentors help early-year students navigate challenges, connect with senior peers, and access resources. Together, these services give students the guidance and support they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

Together, these services give students the guidance and support they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. See our Contact page to connect with our team.

Forms & Applications

Students can access commonly used forms, schedules, and guides below:

Applications

• GSI Application (closed)

• Reader Application (open)

• PMB Travel Grant Application

• PMB Annual Academic Progress Report (DCR & APR forms must be submitted here)

Forms 

• Lab Rotations & Modules Schedule

• Lab Rotation Agreement Form

• Lab Placement Form

• PMB Qualifying Exam Guide

• Doctoral Candidacy Review & Annual Thesis Meeting Form

• Graduation Checklist

• CalCentral Log-in

• Submit the QE eForm Application

• Submit the Advancement to Candidacy eForm Application

• Submit a Change of Committee eForm

Campus Resources

UC Berkeley offers a broad range of campus-wide resources designed to complement departmental support and enrich the graduate student experience. The Graduate Division provides guidance on policies, funding opportunities, and professional development. The Career Center supports career exploration within and beyond academia. Wellness resources are available through University Health Services at the Tang Center, which offers medical care, counseling, and mental health services. Programs across campus also promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, ensuring that graduate students have access to networks and support systems that create an inclusive environment. The Berkeley Support Portal is a great hub to explore these services and find what you need.