<p>Running a research group is so far down the line that it’s practically useless to try to plan for that when we’re talking about someone who is currently in high school. And I’m sure you’ll find exceptions to any rule all over the place, so much so that there is no rule.</p>
<p>Take a look at the chart contained in the following link, it provides the list of baccalaureate origin institute of those who received a PhD is science or engineering on a per capita basis from 1997-2006. The list is dominated by LACs, which is all the more amazing when you consider the fact that LACs enroll such a small portion of the college population.</p>
<p>[nsf.gov</a> - NCSES Baccalaureate Origins of S&E Doctorate Recipients - US National Science Foundation (NSF)](<a href=“http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/infbrief/nsf08311/?govDel=USNSF_178http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/infbrief/nsf08311/?govDel=USNSF_178]nsf.gov”>http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/infbrief/nsf08311/?govDel=USNSF_178http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/infbrief/nsf08311/?govDel=USNSF_178)</p>
<p>If someone has access to more current info or a list of biology related PhDs only, then please post it. Also note that UW is not on the list, although given that it’s a public school, it undoubtedly doesn’t fare well in per capita comparisons - checking it’s absolute numbers, it’s ranked #8. I think per capita numbers are probably more useful for an individual situation.</p>