Program Overview

Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) Program

The Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) concentration emphasizes the intersection of modern cellular biology research with medicine and society. It is rooted in the investigation of biological processes based on the study of molecules and their interactions in the context of cells and tissues, and how the genome orchestrates cell behavior. MCB is therefore ideally suited to students who wish to study molecular and cellular processes at the heart of both normal physiology and disease.

Program Description

Through coursework and hands-on research, students will have the opportunity to investigate many of the questions central to modern biology and medicine. The MCB faculty is dedicated to supporting undergraduate research, and students are encouraged to join the laboratory of an MCB faculty member or a laboratory in one of the Harvard-affiliated centers. The senior thesis is considered the capstone academic experience, and the concentration provides extensive support to seniors to make thesis writing an enriching experience.

Program Features

• MCB students are assigned a Tutor from the Board of Tutors in Biomedical Sciences to provide both intellectual support and professional mentorship.
• An MCB student typically meets with their assigned Tutor regularly throughout the semester, either individually or in small groups, to read and discuss primary literature or relevant texts tailored to the student’s interests.
• MCB graduates will be informed citizens who can understand and evaluate the impact of new research discoveries in the life sciences as they unfold at a breathtaking and accelerating pace.
• Graduates will stand poised to pursue a broad range of careers in biological and medical research, public and global health, science policy, law and intellectual property, business, education, and science writing.

Research Areas

• Genomics
• Systems biology
• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Cancer biology
• The microbiome
• Global health
• Infectious disease

Program Outcomes

MCB graduates will be well-prepared to pursue a variety of careers, including:

• Biological and medical research
• Public and global health
• Science policy
• Law and intellectual property
• Business
• Education
• Science writing