
Graduate Training Program in Biomedical Sciences & Engineering
The Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering (PBSE) reflects the interdisciplinary and collaborative nature of biomedical research at UCSC. PBSE predoctoral fellows have the opportunity to study biology at the molecular, cellular, and systems levels, and can take advantage of advanced laboratory facilities, computational tools, and a highly collaborative research environment. First-year students can do research rotations with over sixty faculty members, who come primarily from the Departments of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, Biomolecular Engineering, Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology. Students apply directly to the PBSE, selecting from the four interdisciplinary training tracks below.
PBSE Tracks
Each training track offers a complete set of core courses, electives, seminars and journal clubs that provide rigorous training in each of the four broad areas. Students may switch training tracks, and we encourage students to take advantage of PBSE’s unique opportunities for carrying out interdisciplinary research. A designated emphasis in Stem Cell Research will soon be available for all tracks.
Questions regarding PBSE may be sent to Professor of Biomolecular Engineering Angela Brooks, director of the PBSE program.
Upcoming Events:

PBSE Virtual Open House
November 6, 2025
11am-1pm
Learn about the faculty, research, and opportunities available at UCSC!
Welcome from PBSE Director – Dr. Angela Brooks
PBSE is a unique Ph.D. program at UC Santa Cruz designed to facilitate interdisciplinary graduate training in the biomedical sciences. Our students have access to world-class facilities and collaborate with experts in a variety of fields. They make significant contributions to research and go on to pursue diverse careers in biology, medicine, and engineering. I invite you to explore our web pages and contact us with any questions.
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UCSC’s graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering is supported by training grants from the National Institute of General Medical Science and the National Human Genome Research Institute.