Research falls broadly into three areas based on faculty interests ? Biological Chemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Cellular and Developmental Biology, and Biomedicine. In many cases, faculty research overlaps these interdisciplinary areas.

Most students admitted to the MCB program have obtained a bachelor's degree in basic sciences (biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics or mathematics). Students interested in a career in life-sciences research in various aspects of biomedicine are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants may apply to the Ph.D. program; only students from the Five College consortium are eligible to apply for the fast-track M.S. degree program.