Metabolism and Nutrient Biology
The Metabolism and Nutrient Biology PhD track in the Biomedical Life Sciences Program explores how biochemical processes generate energy, build cellular components, and maintain physiological balance, and how their disruption contributes to obesity, diabetes, cancer, infectious, and autoimmune diseases. Building on Columbia's strengths in metabolic and nutritional sciences, the track trains students to investigate metabolism from organelles to whole organisms—including interactions with the gut microbiome, while linking basic mechanisms to translational opportunities in disease and therapy.
Course Work
Common Program Course Work
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Program Course 1 |
Molecules to Life I (4 credits) |
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Program Course 2 |
Bytes to Biology I (4 credits)
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Program Course 3 |
Molecules to Life II (4 credits) |
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RCR |
Track Specific Coursework
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Track Course 1 |
Molecular and Cell Biology of Nutrients (NUTRG4020) (Spring Semester) |
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Track Course 2 |
Biochemical and Physiological Basis of Nutrition I: Macronutrients (NUTRGR6205) |
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Track Course 3 |
Any full-term graduate course - Mechanisms and Pathophysiology of Metabolic Disease (Spring Semester) recommended |
Works in Progress
MNB WIP (Year 2 start)
Skills & Competencies
VIBRE programs require PhD candidates to demonstrate proficiency in the following key scientific skills: Coding, Statistics, Science Writing, Presentation Skills, and Literature Review & Critical Appraisal. The following will allow competencies to be met:
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Coding |
Orientation-based session + Bytes to Biology I |
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Statistics |
Orientation-based session + Bytes to Biology I |
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Science Writing |
NIH/NSF grantwriting course or other DGS approved course |
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Presentation Skills |
CMBS Seminars I and II (Year 1) |
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Literature Review & Critical Appraisal |
Molecules to Life II, MCB of Nutr, Biochem of Macros, Mech of Metab Disease (all provide 1 credit each and students must accumulate 3 credits) |
Other Curricular Requirements
- Orientation & Boot Camp – These programs offer students a comprehensive introduction to the Columbia University community and the VIBRE PhD Pathway.
- Advising – Students regularly meet with faculty mentors and program advisors to guide their academic and research decisions, address core research skills, and discuss expectations and needs.
- Research Rotations – During their first year, students complete at least three research rotations, each lasting about three months, in the labs of training faculty. Students select rotations based on their interests. These experiences help them explore potential dissertation mentors while expanding both their practical skills and theoretical understanding in different areas of research.
- First-Year Affiliation and Track Specialization – Students are affiliated with a track of interest during their first year, with formal selection of a program track occurring at the end of the year.
