CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

The programme emphasises interdisciplinary research and advanced coursework in core engineering principles applied to biological and medical problems. Students typically combine formal classes, laboratory rotations, research seminars and independent dissertation work.

• Core topics: biomaterials and tissue engineering, biomechanics and mechanobiology, biomedical imaging, bioinstrumentation and sensors, cellular and molecular bioengineering, and computational methods for biological systems.
• Typical modules and courses: advanced biomaterials, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, biomechanics, medical imaging and image analysis, biosignal processing, micro- and nanotechnology for biomedical applications, systems biology and quantitative modelling, and biostatistics/research design.
• Research training: laboratory rotations (in early stages), weekly research seminars, journal clubs, teaching or mentoring experience, and preparation for the qualifying examination leading to doctoral candidacy.
• Dissertation: an original, publishable research project carried out under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Projects commonly span biomaterials, neural engineering, biosensors, computational biology, drug delivery, and clinical translational studies.

Entry requirements

Admission is selective and based on academic record, research potential and fit with faculty expertise. Typical requirements include:

• An appropriate graduate degree (master’s) in biomedical engineering, engineering, physics, chemistry, biology or a closely related quantitative discipline is preferred; exceptionally well-prepared candidates with a strong bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may also be considered.
• Evidence of research experience, such as publications, conference presentations or detailed descriptions of laboratory or computational projects.
• Academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests outlining potential faculty matches, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and score expectations follow institutional guidance).
• Additional requirements may include a technical interview with potential advisors or faculty and, where applicable, fulfilment of any departmental or university administrative procedures for admission.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme move into a range of research and leadership roles across academia, industry and the public sector. Common career paths include:

• Academic research and faculty positions, often continuing postdoctoral training before securing tenure-track roles.
• Research and development in medical device, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, including roles in product development, regulatory science and translational research.
• Technical leadership in startups, entrepreneurship and technology transfer focused on medtech and bioengineering innovations.
• Clinical translational roles working with hospitals and health systems to move engineering solutions toward patient care, and positions in clinical research organisations.
• Specialist careers in computational biology, imaging and data science, as well as non‑technical roles such as science policy, consulting and intellectual property for candidates who pursue additional qualifications.

Why study at CUNY (The City University of New York)

CUNY offers a PhD environment that combines rigorous graduate training with the practical advantages of being in New York City. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaborations across CUNY campuses, access to clinical and research partners in the metropolitan area, and proximity to a broad ecosystem of hospitals, research institutes and biotech companies.

• Interdisciplinary opportunities: faculty with diverse expertise across engineering, biology and medicine and formal ties with clinical and basic-science centres enable multidisciplinary projects.
• Research infrastructure: access to core facilities, shared laboratories and specialised instrumentation that support experimental and computational research.
• Professional development: seminar series, industry engagement, and support for grant writing, teaching experience and career placement.
• Diversity and cost effectiveness: as a public university system, CUNY attracts a diverse student body and provides a range of funding opportunities, including research assistantships, teaching assistantships and fellowships, which commonly support PhD students.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review faculty research profiles to identify potential advisors and contact them to discuss fit before applying.