Program in Biomedical Sciences
The Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS) provides rigorous training towards a PhD degree by integrating the foundations of interdisciplinary biomedical research with focused investigation and preparation for career advancement. PiBS offers first-year students the opportunity to explore a variety of research areas over the course of three laboratory rotations along with a core curriculum to help determine the direction of their PhD focus.
The degree granting programs within PiBS are:
Biochemistry & Cell Biology | Biophysics |Genetics & Genomics | Virology, Immunology, & Microbiology | Molecular & Translational Medicine | Nutrition & Metabolism | Orofacial & Skeletal Biology | Pathology | Physiology
In addition, students can participate in the Immunology Training Program, ultimately earning their degrees within either the Microbiology or Pathology program.
Fall 2026 Admissions
Please note: The upcoming deadline for admission is 11:59 PM EST on Monday, December 1.
The Program in Biomedical Sciences is now accepting applications September through December for entry to the Fall 2026 class. Prospective applicants will create an account with the Boston University Centralized Application System (BU-GMS CAS) completing all personal, academic and supporting document sections.
Application deadline: December 1st, 2025
Application requirements:
- Completed all requirements for a baccalaureate degree
- Three letters of recommendation
- An unofficial transcript of each college or university attended (in English) or international credential evaluation (such as WES)
- Structured personal statement (read here)
- (For international applicants) English language examination requirement
- TOEFL: 100 with a minimum of 20 in each section
- IELTS: 7.0 or higher
- See this page regarding waiver eligibility
Visit the PiBS Admissions Page for complete application requirements and answers to frequently asked questions.
PhD Funding
Students receive full tuition coverage, fees, health insurance options, and a $46,350 stipend per year as of September 2025.
Curriculum
In the first year PhD students will participate in the Foundations in Biomedical Sciences (FBS) core curriculum and select elective courses focused on area-specific interests. Additionally, students will experience laboratory rotations and participate in journal clubs and research seminars. Professional development opportunities (see below) round out the curriculum. Students will work closely with a faculty advisor in the development of an individual plan tailored to serve specific research and professional goals. After selection of a laboratory, students will join the program/department with which the mentor is affiliated and continue advanced studies towards candidacy.
Laboratory Rotations
Students will identify one lab rotation in the first semester and two lab rotations in the second semester in consultation with their advisors.
Professional Development
GMS is dedicated to the professional development and mentorship of all our graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. For more information about workshops and career development activities, please visit our Professional Development site. Take note of the host of opportunities available through BU’s BEST (http://www.bu.edu/best/), which is an NIH-funded award dedicated to “Broadening Experiences in Scientific Training”.
Our students also have access to our alumni networking site; enabling them to connect with BU GMS alumni for career advice.
PiBS Student Handbook
Please review the 2025 – 2026 Student Handbook for details on specific policies and procedures regarding academic requirements, lab rotations, qualifying exams, etc.
Contact pibs@bu.edu for more information about the program.