PhD in Molecular Biosciences

The PhD in Molecular Biosciences offers graduate training to explore the vast range of life science research in biochemistry, biophysics, cell biology, genetics, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, structural biology, and virology.

Students have the flexibility to design an individualized academic and research program from a diverse and exciting range of topics and expertise.

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Protein Biotechnology Training Program

Open to WSU doctoral graduate students, the program promotes research careers by helping trainees attain essential experiences, skills, and knowledge, particularly in collaborative transdisciplinary protein research and biotechnology commercialization.

I did infectious disease ecology work before coming to WSU and I wanted to do infectious disease work at a molecular level and explore why disease is more severe in some individuals as opposed to others. The labs here in this program let me do that kind of work and master new molecular techniques I wasn’t able to do before.

-Chelsea Osbron, graduate student in Molecular Biosciences

Integrated graduate program

  • Common core curriculum. Graduate students take common courses in biomedical ethics, responsible conduct, experimental design, and deconstruction of research.
  • 8-week lab rotations. Choose at least three labs and work alongside faculty researchers to discover your research interests and choose a mentor.
  • Professional development. Attend ongoing academic and career development training in our Leadership and Professional Series to enhance communication, mentoring, diversity, and leadership skills.

Tuition and financial resources


Graduate stories


About the school

The School of Molecular Biosciences offers undergraduate through postdoctoral education in biochemistry, genetics and cell biology, and microbiology. Beginning their first year, students have the opportunity to work with leading faculty to gain hands-on research experience.

June morning Kamiak butte

Tours & Visits

Pullman is located in the Palouse region of the Inland Northwest, homelands of the Nimíipuu (Nez Perce) Tribe and Palus people. The Palouse has one of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in the world. Rolling hills and wide-open skies give the region its distinctive appeal.

Residents enjoy outdoor activities and the benefits of small town living with the cultural richness of bigger city life.