
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 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

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
May 9, 2022
Science Student Spotlight: Matthew Cleere
Matthew Michael Cleere is a doctoral student in the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental (MCD) subprogram of the Ph.D. in Biology. He graduated cum laude with...
- Student News
Apr 20, 2022
Celebrate Earth Day with Our Scholars
Join Graduate Center scholars to protect the environment, advocate for positive change, and learn about the natural world.
- Faculty News
- Student News
- Alumni News
- Research News
- GC Stories
Mar 31, 2022
$250,000 Prize Supports a Professor’s Work to Treat ALS
The award supports the development of a potential noninvasive ALS treatment by Neuroscience Professor Zaghloul Ahmed and his collaborator at PathMaker Neurosystems Inc.
- Faculty News
- GC Stories
Mar 30, 2022
NIH Fellowship Supports a Student’s Research on Medicinal Plants in Haitian Women’s Health
Ella Vardeman is the fifth Biology Ph.D. student to earn the prestigious fellowship, which funds her study of an important public health issue for Caribbean women in New York City.
- Student News
- GC Stories
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