Our research-oriented Ph.D. program provides high-level command of concepts and an unsurpassed research experience that turns students into world-class researchers with specialization in their chosen area of research.
Biomedical engineering at Cornell University focuses on interdisciplinary research to achieve a quantitative understanding of human biology at all spatial and temporal scales, from molecules and cells to tissues and organs, with the goal of improving human health. Our mission is to educate students to understand the human body as an integrated system and the mechanisms of disease through quantitative engineering analysis, and to use that understanding to design better therapeutic strategies, devices, and diagnostics.
The application requirements and deadline for the Ph.D. programs are listed on the Graduate School's website. Starting academic year 2019-2020, Cornell's graduate field of biomedical engineering will no longer require GRE scores from applicants, and will review all applications blinded for GRE scores.
Graduate education at Cornell is focused on individualized programs tailored to the background, needs, and interests of each student. Cornell combines an Ivy League tradition with many features of a land grant university to provide outstanding programs of teaching and research in all areas of human inquiry. Students shape their course of study working within an academic framework developed with a Special Committee of faculty advisors chosen by the student. Doctoral programs are typically completed in five to six years.
While a list of our research areas cannot fully capture the integrated nature of Biomedical Engineering at Cornell, it does provide helpful information to understand the breadth of research available in the department.
In addition to a world-class research environment, the BME department at Cornell has opportunities for you to learn to become a better educator, communicator, and science advocate. Cornell BME students have opportunities to teach students at various levels, from middle school through high school to undergraduates, educating them about science and engineering.
I was amazed at how inclusive and family-oriented the BME faculty, staff, and students were. Many things assured me that I would be in a supportive and collaborative environment which is exactly what I wanted and needed.
"During my Ph.D., I grew not only as a scientist, but as a person. Cornell helped me to think critically in my Ph.D. project and other situations." Read more about Nizeet Aguilar, Ph.D. '16
Tan's Ph.D. research led to breakthroughs in nanofabricated single molecule/single cell chips for new biomedical applications such as cancer studies. Her solid foundation in interdisciplinary thinking from a world-class education well positioned Tan to take on key leadership roles in industry. Read more about Alumni Spotlight: Christine Tan, Ph.D. 2011
Ramkumar co-founded Abram Scientific, Inc., a medical diagnostic device company with a vision to develop a low cost diagnostic platform for hemostasis monitoring in cardiovascular disease management. Read more about Alumni Spotlight: Abhishek Ramkumar, Ph.D. 2010
