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
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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 |
Mechanisms of Human Disease |
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Track Course 2 |
Developmental Therapeutics, Instructors: Ken Olive and Serge Cremers |
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Track Course 3 |
Any full-term graduate course at Columbia approved by the DGS |
Works in Progress
Disease & Therpeutics (D&T) WIP (Year 3 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 (Years 1 and 2) |
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Literature Review & Critical Appraisal |
New D&T Journal Club (Year 2) |
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.
