Vagelos Institute's Biomedical Research Education PhD Programs

About the Vagelos Institute's PhD Programs

The Vagelos Institute's Biomedical Research Education (VIBRE) PhD Programs are transforming biomedical graduate education—integrating deep disciplinary training with an expansive transdisciplinary experience. As part of Columbia’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and housed within the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, VIBRE thrives in a world-class scientific ecosystem. With access to over 350 faculty mentors and cutting-edge research facilities, PhD students engage in an unparalleled environment for discovery, collaboration, and innovation—right in the heart of New York City.

Made possible by a transformative gift from Roy ’54 and Diana Vagelos, VIBRE empowers students to shape the future of biomedical science. Through its innovative curriculum, VIBRE fosters early cross-disciplinary training, enabling students to explore their passions, bridge scientific fields, and drive groundbreaking discoveries. VIBRE goes beyond scientific training and mentorship, offering career development resources and hands-on training in translating discoveries into real-world solutions, preparing students for careers in academia, industry, policy, and beyond.

Our Model for Graduate Training

  • Personalized and Flexible Curriculum: Students can explore multiple fields through rotations and coursework before committing to a program/disciplinary track, ensuring a well-informed and individualized path to specialization.
  • Transdisciplinary Foundations: Core courses reveal unifying scientific principles across disciplines, preparing students to tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives. Professional competencies further equip students with skills essential for success both within and beyond the lab.
  • Mentorship & Networking: A multi-layered mentorship program connects students with faculty, peers, and external experts, providing sustained guidance and support throughout their PhD journey.
  • Translating Science to Impact: Dedicated initiatives help students apply their discoveries to pressing biomedical challenges, working alongside clinical mentors and industry leaders to move science from bench to bedside.
  • Career Development: Tailored programs and workshops expose students to diverse career paths, leveraging New York City and Columbia’s vast professional and alumni networks to prepare students for leadership positions across academia, industry, policy, and beyond.