
Biology

Students in the Ph.D. Program in Biology at the CUNY Graduate Center gain fundamental knowledge of current life sciences and mastery of investigative approaches in one of four specialized areas of study.
Request InformationDegree Offered
Ph.D. in Biology
Full-time
4 subprograms
Admissions Deadlines
December 1 - Neuroscience subprogram
January 1 - all other subprograms
Fall enrollment only
The Biology program provides its students with interdisciplinary research and training opportunities in the world-class laboratories of doctoral faculty located at CUNY campuses and affiliated institutions throughout New York City.
The program prepares doctoral candidates to become research professionals equipped to teach in university programs and for leadership positions in biotechnology and research.
Biology Announcements
More Like ThisCongratulations to the Biology Graduating Class of 2021-2022
The Biology program awarded a total of 14 doctoral degrees across our four subprograms in the 2021-2022 academic year. Congratulations to Aishwarya Bhattacharjee, Xueqing Chen, Taylan Baris Morcol, Onyekwere Onwumere, Shoshana Reich, Michael Anthony Tavarez, Sophia Varriano, Michelle K .Naidoo, Jordan Hoffman, Joyce Chan, Jennifer Zhu, Saymon Akther, Lan Truong, Andrew Guarnaccia on completing their Ph.D.s!
- Congratulations/Kudos
Congratulations to Recent Biology Fellowship Winners
The Ph.D. program in Biology congratulates our students who have been awarded dissertation fellowships for the 2022-23 academic year:
Rose Dissertation Fellowship
Nazia Nayeem
Dissertation Year Award
Melenia Giakoumis
Gonzalo Pinilla Buitrago
Catalyst Grants
Lizettee Couto
Gonzalo Pinilla Buitrago
Simon Verlynde
Katerina Yamamoto
- Congratulations/Kudos
Biology Spotlights
Our Sciences Spotlight series profiles students, faculty, and alumni associated with GC Sciences programs. Learn about our community:

The Best of CUNY and NYC
Doctoral biology students have access to exceptional faculty and research facilities at CUNY campuses, including the Advanced Science Research Center at The Graduate Center, Baruch College, Brooklyn College, The City College of New York, College of Staten Island, Hunter College, Lehman College, New York City College of Technology, Queens College, CUNY School of Medicine., and York College. Students also have mentorship and research opportunities at affiliated distinguished NY institutions including the American Museum of Natural History and the New York Botanical Gardens.
Explore resources for students
Physics and Mathematics Meet Biology
Students and faculty conduct specialized research with institutions and initiatives within and outside of The Graduate Center. A collaboration with the Initiative in Theoretical Sciences (ITS) involves faculty who study the phenomena of life using methods grounded in the traditions of theoretical physics and applied mathematics. This initiative will significantly expand research and educational opportunities for Biology Ph.D. students (as well as students from disciplines such as Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science) interested in theory and other aspects of quantitative biology.
Learn more about the Initiative in Theoretical Sciences
Diversity Enhances our program and is a priority
We are proud to be part of the nation’s largest urban university, known for propelling diverse students into rewarding and meaningful careers. The Biology program benefits from attracting students of all backgrounds who hail from throughout New York City and around the world. We are devoted to creating an environment in which diverse students are supported in their work and empowered to excel as scientists and educators.
Student Resources
Biology students should visit our Student Resources page for our handbook and other resources. Additionally, students can report issues here:
Research Activities and Community Highlights
Latest News
Mar 1, 2023
Celebrating Women’s History and History-Makers
Our scholars are shedding light on the histories of women and making history themselves.
- GC Stories
- Alumni News
- Student News
- Faculty News
Mar 1, 2023
It’s True. It’s Getting Harder to Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Neuroscientist Orie Shafer explains why modern living keeps us up at night and how we can get some decent shuteye.
- GC Stories
- Faculty News
- Research News
Jan 26, 2023
Scientists Raise Alarms About the Destruction of the Amazon
Unprecedented clearing of the world’s largest rainforest must be halted, researchers assert.
- GC Stories
- Research News
- Faculty News
Jan 23, 2023
Science Faculty Spotlight: Andrew Wolfe
A biochemist seeks more effective and equitable ways to treat lung, pancreatic, and colon cancers.
- Faculty News
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