Welcome to the CMB Department
At the heart of our program is a close-knit community of faculty, staff, and students, all driven by a shared passion for exploring life at the molecular level. Through hands-on learning, personalized mentorship, and meaningful research opportunities, our diverse programs—including the B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S. thesis track, Professional Science Master’s (PSM), and the combined B.S./M.S. pathway—prepare students for impactful careers in research, healthcare, and biotechnology.
We unite rigorous scientific training with real-world experience, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and both personal and professional growth.
Cell & Molecular Biology at GVSU
The Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) Department at Grand Valley State University brings together faculty from Biology, Chemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Physics, and related disciplines to explore the molecular foundations of life.
Founded in 2001 and established as a formal department in 2009, CMB was created in response to the rapid growth of biotechnology and life sciences—locally, nationally, and globally. From the beginning, our mission has been to prepare students for success in biotechnology, research, and advanced study.
CMB set a new standard in undergraduate education by requiring every major to complete a hands-on research project as part of our laboratory-intensive core curriculum. This commitment to authentic research experiences has distinguished our graduates and fueled their success in graduate programs, professional schools, and industry careers.
Building on that foundation, the department continues to innovate. In 2014, CMB introduced a combined B.S./M.S. degree program that allows students to earn both degrees in just five years. In 2019, we expanded further with a Bioinformatics and Genomics Certificate offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Our Faculty: Committed to Your Success
