Ph.D. Program

BME Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Program

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. 

Graduate Student Experience at Cornell

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.

Research Areas

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. 

Opportunities for Training in Education and Outreach

In addition to a world-class research environment, the BME department at Cornell has opportunities for you to learn to become a better educator and to teach students at various levels, from middle school through high school to undergraduates, about science and engineering. We encourage students to participate in public engagement and service to the broader community, including work with patient support groups, science policy, and advocacy.