Welcome to the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology

Molecular biology, the biomedical sciences, and biotechnology are amongst the most challenging and exciting scientific fields. These disciplines are at the forefront of our efforts to overcome many of the greatest challenges of the twenty-first century: climate change, world hunger, heart disease, cancer, and AIDS.

The Department of Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Rhode Island offers cutting-edge and internationally recognized programs for undergraduate and graduate training. At its core, the department offers solid foundations in biochemistry, microbiology and molecular genetics. We are committed to preparing students for highly successful careers in these disciplines.

Research interests within the Department are diverse and include the study of the molecular origins of cancer and lyme disease, the roles of microbial consortia in the marine environment and in mammalian guts, the genetic modification of switchgrasses for biofuel production, as well as vaccine development.

The Department of Cell and Molecular Biology is located in the recently constructed Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences building (CBLS). The CBLS building represents the centerpiece of both the University’s and the State of Rhode Island’s efforts to stimulate economic growth and workforce development in the molecular biosciences.

The CBLS building contains state-of-the-art teaching and research labs as well as the URI Genomics and Sequencing Center. Laboratories are linked by informal spaces that foster interaction between faculty, staff, and students. The facility was designed and constructed using sustainable practices and is expected to be certified LEED® Silver later this year.

The Department is also closely affiliated with the URI Biotechnology Center located in downtown Providence. The Center is home to both graduate and undergraduate programs in biotechnology and medical laboratory sciences, as well as the URI Institute for Immunology and Informatics, the biotechnology industry training program, and the K-12 biotechnology training initiative.

We welcome you as a visitor to our department and invite you to explore our undergraduate and graduate programs.