Graduate Studies in Biological Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University
Welcome to Graduate Studies in the Department of Biological Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University, where innovation meets interdisciplinary research. Our department fosters a collaborative, research-intensive environment that integrates life sciences with engineering, computational biology, and cutting-edge technology to solve real-world challenges.
Why Choose CMU for Graduate Study?
Our graduate programs are designed to prepare students for impactful careers in academia, industry, and biomedical research. With a strong emphasis on hands-on research, technical training, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, students gain the skills and experience needed to lead in today’s rapidly evolving scientific landscape.
Which Program Should You Take?
GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
Ph.D. in Biological Sciences
Comprehensive training in identifying significant research questions and addressing them by experimental design and data analysis. Students are also trained in scientific communication.
M.S. in Quantitative Biology and Bioinformatics
Focused on computational methods and biological data analysis for careers in bioinformatics and other data analytics careers in biology.
Primary Focus: Bioinformatics, data analysis for biology
Ideal background: Biology or other science. Some Statistics or Computer Science background can be helpful but is not required
Duration: 2-3 semesters
Career Path: Industry or Ph.D., typically in bioinformatics, data analytics
M.S. in Computational Biology
A joint program with CMU’s Computational Biology Department in the School of Computer Science, combining cutting edge computational methods; such as Machine Learning and AI with biology to solve complex problems.
Primary Focus: Computational biology
Ideal background: Most students have strength in at least two of the following and interest in all 4: Biology, Computer Science, Math, or Statistics.
Duration: 3-4 semesters
Career Path: Industry or Ph.D. in Computational Biology or Advanced Algorithmic design in Biotechnology or Pharmaceutical areas.
M.S. in Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering
Offered with the Department of Chemical Engineering, this program prepares students for careers in biotech and pharmaceutical design and manufacturing.
Primary Focus: Biotech & pharma engineering, drug development
Ideal background: Biology, chem, engineering, biomedical
Duration: 3 semesters
Career Path: Industry or Ph.D., typically in Production or Quality Control for Biopharmaceuticals
AFFILIATED DEGREE PROGRAMS
The Department of Biological Sciences partners with various programs and groups at Carnegie Mellon, the University of Pittsburgh, and in the Western Pennsylvania region to expand training opportunities for its students. While these programs have their own admission processes, students in those programs may have the opportunity to conduct research or take courses within CMU’s Department of Biological Sciences. Among the more formalized programs are:
Interinstitutional Program in Cell and Molecular Biology
Medical Scientist Training Program (Ph.D./M.D.)
Joint Carnegie Mellon and University of Pittsburgh Ph.D. Program in Computational Biology
Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology Graduate Program
INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH AREAS
Graduate students engage in diverse research fields, including:
Bioimaging & Imaging Technology • Biomolecular Condensates & Spatial Organization of Cells • Biophysics, Biochemistry, Structural Biology • Cell & Developmental Biology • Cellular-systems Neuroscience • Computational Biology & Bioinformatics • Evolutionary Biology • Functional Omics • Microbial Pathogens & Microbiome • Synthetic & Molecular Biology
Whether you're pursuing a Ph.D. or a Master’s degree, CMU’s Biological Sciences graduate programs offer the cross-disciplinary collaborations and resources to help you on your career path.
CMU RALES FELLOWS
The Carnegie Mellon University Rales Fellows Program is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of STEM leaders and driving innovation by increasing access to a life-changing graduate education. By removing financial barriers to obtaining advanced degrees and providing Fellows with holistic support, the Rales Fellows Program empowers and connects scholars with others who share a passion for progress and innovation.
Join our growing network of prospective students. Complete the form to connect to a program advisor.
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