MCD Biology
Molecular, Cell and Development Biology Program (MCD)
The Molecular, Cell, and Developmental (MCD) track of the ILS is uniquely tailored to those students who want to focus their studies towards understanding the basic mechanisms that control cell structure, function, and differentiation. Using a range of approaches, including genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and developmental biology, MCD students carry out research on a variety of plant, animal, fungal, and microbial organisms. Research opportunities range from stem cell differentiation and human disease treatment to the development of new biofuels.
Participating faculty represent a broad range of research interests and come from the departments of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, Genetics, Infectious Diseases, and Plant Biology. The MCD faculty are very interactive with many cross departmental collaborations possible, not only within these six departments but among colleagues in many other departments as well. Entering the graduate program through the ILS gives students a much broader range of potential research projects and advisors than would direct admission to an individual department.
Students enrolling in the MCD track will receive a stipend of $24,000 during the first year. During years 2-5, the participating academic units hosting the student will provide a stipend of $24,000, or the departmental minimum, whichever is higher.