Graduate Field
Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology
Program Description
The graduate program in the field of biochemistry, molecular and cell biology (BMCB) offers a Ph.D. degree only. The goal of our program is to introduce and educate students about the fascination of this scientific area, as well as provide them with the tools necessary to succeed in it. The program offers the opportunity to undertake forefront research with access to the latest technology and equipment. Our program includes both core and flexible coursework that intends to provide a depth and breadth of knowledge in the scientific areas encompassed by the field, develop written communication skills, and inform on research ethics. In addition to coursework, students are required to complete three research rotations in the first year and a one-semester teaching experience in the second year.
Students in the field of BMCB can select the biochemistry Ph.D. or molecular and cell biology Ph.D. degree during the application process. Core curricular requirements are maintained across the BMCB and GGD degree programs. The biochemistry Ph.D. offers coursework and research opportunities that focus on understanding biochemical mechanisms. More details can be found on the BMCB program website. Degree selection during the application process should be informed by an applicant’s current area of research interest. The flexibility of our training program allows students to move between the BMCB and GGD degree programs at the end of the first year if their research interests evolve.
Concentrations
Program Information
- Program Mode of Delivery: In Person
- Program Location: Ithaca, NY
Program Requirements
- Minimum Semesters for Degree: 10
Graduate School Milestones
- Responsible Conduct of Research Training: Required
- Open Researcher and Contributor ID (ORCID): Required
- Student Progress Reviews (SPR) begin: Second Year
- Examination for admission to candidacy (A Exam): Summer of second year
- Defense of Dissertation (B Exam): Spring of fifth year
Field Specific Milestones
- One semester of teaching assistantship is required
Course Requirements
Additional course requirements may be set by the student’s Special Committee. Program specific requirements that apply to all students are included below.
Year 1 (Fall)
Year 1 (Spring)
Year 2 (Fall)
- BIOMG 8375 Scientific Communication: Research Proposal Writing
Year 2 (Spring)
- BIOMG 7510 Ethical Issues and Professional Responsibilities
- BIOMG 6980 Graduate Student Teaching Assistant Experience in Molecular Biology and Genetics
Graduate School Enrollment Requirements
Course Requirements
- Course requirements are determined by the student’s Special Committee.
- Enrollment in a GRAD research course or the equivalent field specific research course is expected of all students each semester through graduation. These courses include:
University Graduation Requirements
Requirements for All Students
In order to receive a Cornell degree, a student must satisfy academic and non-academic requirements.
Academic Requirements
A student’s college determines degree requirements such as residency, number of credits, distribution of credits, and grade averages. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of the specific major, degree, distribution, college, and graduation requirements for completing their chosen program of study. See the individual requirements listed by each college or school or contact the college registrar’s office for more information.
Non-academic Requirements
Conduct Matters. Students must satisfy any outstanding sanctions, penalties or remedies imposed or agreed to under the Student Code of Conduct (Code) or Policy 6.4. Where a formal complaint under the Code or Policy 6.4 is pending, the University will withhold awarding a degree otherwise earned until the adjudication process set forth in those procedures is complete, including the satisfaction of any sanctions, penalties or remedies imposed.
Financial Obligations. Outstanding financial obligations will not impact the awarding of a degree otherwise earned or a student’s ability to access their official transcript. However, the University may withhold issuing a diploma until any outstanding financial obligations owing to the University are satisfied.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of a Ph.D., students will be able to:
- Make an original and substantial contribution to the field.
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of one area of expertise.
- Demonstrate a broad knowledge of theory and research across several subdisciplines in the field.
- Learn and follow ethical guidelines for working in the field.
- Write and speak effectively to professional and lay audiences about issues in the field.
Admissions
Application Requirements and Deadlines
Application Deadlines
Fall, November 16; no spring admission
Requirements Summary
Candidates come from many academic backgrounds; however, matriculating students will have commonly majored in one of the many areas of biology, chemistry, or physics. There are no set standards; rather we are searching for applicants who we believe can flourish in the program. The Admissions Committee considers the potential for each applicant to succeed, and past or ongoing research experience is considered an important indicator for success in the program. A holistic review takes into account not only the applicant's academic background and research experience but also the applicant’s accomplishments, character, and life experiences. The academic record (GPA) and research experience are considered alongside the statement of purpose and letters of recommendation. There is not a grade point average minimum or cutoff. We value diversity in all its forms.
Admissions Contact Information
Email: bmcb@cornell.edu
Campus Address: 107 Biotechnology Building
Website: https://cals.cornell.edu/molecular-biology-genetics/academics/graduate/biochemistry-molecular-and-cell-biology
