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The Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Computational Biology & Medicine is a renowned graduate program focused on training the next generation of scientists in computational and systems biology. The program is a partnership between world-class research institutions – Cornell University, Weill Cornell Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and The Rockefeller University. It includes over 80 research labs, spanning a wide range of biomedical research with computational and analytical components.
Our students receive in-depth training in computational biology research beginning with graduate level courses that cover topics in AI, machine learning algorithms, deep learning models in biology, computational genomics, dynamic modeling, foundations in data science and more. These courses cover theoretical concepts as well as their applications to biomedical research.
We invite applications from both U.S. and international candidates with strong foundational knowledge in quantitative fields, from broad range of academic backgrounds, and scientific interests. Each year, we receive hundreds of applications for a limited number of spots. The admission committee reviews every application, assessing the applicant’s suitability based on academic achievements, research experience and, importantly, life experiences that demonstrate scientific curiosity and dedication to research.
While it is difficult to define exact criteria for acceptance applicants are minimally expected to have:
• An undergraduate or master’s degree in computer science, math, physics, engineering, computational biology, or another discipline that includes a strong quantitative component.
• Extensive training in quantitative disciplines, including linear algebra, statistics, computer programming, as well as foundational knowledge in biology.
• A bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited university with minimal science grade point average (GPA) of 3.6. Note: Transcripts from non-U.S. institutions must be transcribed by a certified translation service.
• Substantive research experience in a commercial or academic lab environment.
• Strong letters of reference from faculty or investigators who can speak to the candidate’s research experience and scientific potential.
Other factors, such as a strong background in biomedical sciences and authorship on research papers, are highly valued but not strictly required.
Please note that due to the large number of applications and strict timeline we require all applications to be submitted and completed by end-of-day (midnight EST) December 1, 2025. No late submissions will be accepted. All components of the application are expected by the deadline.
Additional information is available on the FAQ page.