What Is Cell and Molecular Biology?
Cell and molecular biology explores how life works at the molecular level. At Grand Valley, students study biochemistry, genetics, and biophysics while gaining hands-on experience in research and advanced laboratory techniques.
Research and internship opportunities help students apply what they learn and prepare for careers in biotechnology, biomedicine, and research—or for advanced study, including Ph.D. and M.D. programs.
The department offers four programs to support a range of academic and career goals and is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Cell and molecular biology explores how life works at the molecular level. At Grand Valley, students study biochemistry, genetics, and biophysics while gaining hands-on research and laboratory experience. With bachelor’s, master’s, combined B.S./M.S., minor, and certificate options, students can choose a path that fits their goals—from building a foundation in the life sciences to gaining advanced research experience or adding specialized knowledge to another field. These programs prepare students for careers in biotechnology, biomedicine, and research, as well as graduate and professional study.
Choose the path that fits your goals:
B.S. in Cell & Molecular Biology
M.S. in Cell & Molecular Biology – Research
Professional Science Master’s – Biotechnology
Combined B.S./M.S. – Cell & Molecular Biology
Cell & Molecular Biology Minor
Bioinformatics and Genomics Certificate
Homebrewing Beer Badge
Advanced Craft Brewing Badge
Why Choose Cell & Molecular Biology?
Turn your interests into hands-on experience and career-ready preparation.
Cross-Disciplinary Experience Work with 20+ faculty across multiple departments in a variety of research fields.
Structured Flexibility Complete required coursework while choosing from a selection of electives to tailor your learning to your professional goals.
Guided Mentorship Gain hands-on experience through independent research projects or professional internships.
Track Record of Success Join a program known for preparing students for graduate school and careers in the life science
What You’ll Learn
Build knowledge you can put into action.
Research: Design and conduct experiments to answer real-world scientific questions.
Lab Techniques: Gain hands-on expertise in DNA/RNA manipulation, cell culture, and bioprocessing.
Data Analysis: Interpret complex datasets and apply modern analytical tools.
Communication: Present scientific findings clearly to both technical and professional audiences.
Innovation: Apply creative problem-solving to tackle challenges in biotechnology.
Biotechnology: Prepare for careers in biotech, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and related industries.
What's Happening in CMB
Classes, News & Events
Bri Hofman’s Summer Research Experience
CMB Club President and student Bri Hofman spent her summer at Johns Hopkins University exploring cell-penetrating peptides and how they enter cells.
New for Winter 2027 CMB 480/580: Lab Operations & Practices
Considering a career as a Life Science Lab Manager? Learn the skills to manage laboratories, support research, and lead operations in this new course from the Cell & Molecular Biology Department, CMB 480/580 Lab Operations & Practices.
Lola Piper ’27 Named Goldwater Scholar
Cell & Molecular Biology Student Lola Piper Earns Nation’s Top Undergraduate STEM Award, the Barry Goldwater Scholarship.
Outstanding Student Employee Scholarship Recipient
The Student Employment Office recognized Cell & Molecular Biology student Sara Sietsema as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Student Employee Scholarship.
Cell & Molecular Biology Alumni Spotlight
From CMB to Forensic Science
Jeannie Kane graduated in 2024 with an M.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology with a Biotechnology Emphasis. She now works as a Forensic Scientist in the Michigan State Police Latent Print Unit.
From CMB to Cancer Research
Rajasree Tumula graduated in Fall 2025 with an M.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology. She now works as a Research Lab Manager at the University of Michigan, studying blood cell development and blood cancers.
From CMB to Genetic Counseling
Margaret Cubbit graduated in Spring 2025 with a B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology. She is now pursuing a master’s degree in genetic counseling at the University of Michigan.
