Disease and Therapeutics

The Disease and Therapeutics PhD track in the Biomedical Life Sciences Program is one of our new tracks, designed to bridge fundamental biomedical discovery with translational science by training students to dissect the molecular and physiological mechanisms of disease and to develop innovative therapeutic solutions. Combining exposure to cutting-edge technologies—from CRISPR and protein engineering to cell, gene, and stem cell therapies—with opportunities for clinical immersion and entrepreneurial training, the track prepares students to transform scientific advances into real-world interventions that improve human health.

Course Work 

Common Program Course Work 

Each student must complete two required core research courses, three foundations courses, and participate in Research In Progress. At least one course from the Life Sciences Foundations and Computational Foundations series is required as part of the three foundations course requirement.   

Core Research Courses 

Responsible Conduct of Research, Biomedical Research

Life Sciences  

Foundations

Molecules to Life I: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (4 credits) and 

Molecules to Life II: Cell Biology & Genetics (4 credits)

Computational Foundations

Bytes to Biology and Health I: Quantitative methods in biology (4 credits) or 

Bytes to Biology and Health II: Quantitative and information theory in biology (4 credits) 

Research in Progress 

Research in Progress (1 credit per semester for 10 semesters) 

Track Specific Coursework 

Course requirements for students who commit to the Computational Biology Track:

  1. Disease and Therapeutics (NEW, four credits) 
  2. Mechanisms of Disease (PATH6004, 3 credits) 
  3. Elective (3 credits) choose from:
    • Cellular Tissue and Architecture (PATH4001, three credits) 
    • How to Make a Drug (PSLG6003, three credits) 
    • Principles in Systems Pharmacology (PHAR8001, three credits) 
    • Stem Cells, Genome Eng, and Regen Med (BMEN6510, 3 points)

Skills & Competencies 

The VIBRE programs require PhD candidates to demonstrate proficiency in the following key scientific skills: Coding, Statistics, Scientific Writing, Oral Communication, and Literature Revie.w 

These requirements may be met in multiple ways, including:

  • Prior Experience: Students with strong undergraduate or graduate-level experience can meet requirements by demonstrating proficiency (e.g., a high grade in a relevant course). 
  • Coursework: Students may meet requirements through designated Columbia University courses. 
  • Track-based Activities: Communication and literature review skills may be developed through journal clubs, work-in-progress meetings, or specialized trackless students.

Each student's progress toward these competencies will be tracked and dprogram's by their program's Director of Graduate Studies (DGS). 

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.