Metabolism and Nutrient Biology

The Metabolism and Nutrient Biology PhD track 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 

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.   

Track Specific Coursework 

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

1. Molecular and Cell Biology of Nutrients (NUTR4020, 3 points) 
2. Mechanisms of Disease (PATH6004, 3 credits) 
3. Elective (3 credits): Choose from any VP&S graduate course 

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 Review. 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 track-level courses. 

Each student's progress toward these competencies will be tracked and documented 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.