Students in the Rutgers Graduate Programs in Molecular Biosciences have the opportunity to conduct thesis research in laboratories affiliated with multiple departments and institutes at Rutgers University. Upon admission, PhD students receive fellowship support for a full year, during which they take a comprehensive first-year curriculum and conduct research rotations in three laboratories of their choice. Faculty advisors mentor students through the rotation process while the curriculum offers multiple opportunities for students to build community, develop essential skills for success as a scientist and learn to work in interdisciplinary teams. By the end of the spring semester, students identify a laboratory in which to conduct their PhD thesis research and select one of the 5 graduate programs for coursework beyond the first year.
In 2016 Rutgers University celebrated its 250th year: chartered as Queens College in 1766, Rutgers was the eighth institution of higher education founded in colonial America, established before the American Revolution. Recognizing the durability and extraordinary accomplishments of Rutgers, President Barack Obama spoke at the University's 250th commencement on May 15, 2016. In addition to citing the University as "one of the finest research institutions in America", President Obama said of Rutgers: "America converges here". This is an institution that values diversity as well as identity in a state that attracts educated people from all over the world. On these pages, read more about the programs, curriculum, opportunities and support services available to students in the Molecular Biosciences. Our graduates accomplish much while they are here at Rutgers and go on to accomplish even more, equipped with excellent training to tackle emerging questions in scientific research, inform public policy, develop novel therapeutics, educate the next generation or use their skills in other ways.
Financial Support
PhD students admitted to the Graduate Program in Molecular Biosciences receive a fellowship in their first year that includes a stipend, health insurance and tuition. The student stipend beginning September 1, 2024 is $41,854. Students making good progress toward the degree can anticipate full funding until the PhD is awarded.
In addition to this, many students apply for and receive competitive state and national fellowships to support their training.
Participating Programs
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Biochemistry
Faculty research spans a wide variety of topics, including: DNA replication and transcription, virus gene expression, tumor biology, structural biochemistry, signal transduction and molecular targeting, protein chemistry and enzymology. -
Cell and Developmental Biology
The graduate program in Cell and Developmental Biology (CDB) offers both PhD and MS degrees with research that spans the broad fields of molecular biology, cell biology, cancer biology, genetics, neurobiology, and developmental biology. Researchers draw upon diverse experimental systems ranging from tissue culture, invertebrates, and humans. -
Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology
Pharmacology is a science that seeks to improve human health with drugs. Researchers in this program use the tools of molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, physiology, chemistry and biochemistry to define biological pathways that can be manipulated. -
Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
The Graduate Program in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (MMG) offers both PhD and MS degrees with research in the following areas: molecular genetics, microbial physiology, virology, pathogenic microbiology, applied and environmental microbiology, and computers in molecular biology. -
Physiology and Integrative Biology
The graduate program in Physiology and Integrative Biology (PIB) offers both PhD and MS degrees. This program is designed to provide training at the interface of genomics, cell biology and organismal physiology. Specific topics include molecular endocrinology, cardiovascular research, cancer biology, membrane structure and signal transduction, host-microbial interaction and the physiological bases of diseases.
