Molecular and Cellular Biology

Van Andel Institute Graduate School is intended for students seeking a Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology that prepares them for leadership positions in biomedical research.

The program is open to all applicants regardless of race, gender, ethnic or national origin, religion or age. Individuals from demographic groups that are underrepresented among professional scientists are especially encouraged to apply.

The Graduate School welcomes international applicants (those who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents). International applicants admitted to VAIGS will be sponsored in the J-1 student (college and university) visa category; Van Andel Institute is not currently designated to sponsor F-1 visas.

Van Andel Institute began with a vision: to improve human health.

Founded by the Van Andel family in 1996, the Institute is now home to more than 400 scientists, educators and support staff – each one of us deeply connected to the work we do and driven by an urgent desire to make a difference.

Every day, we collaborate at the forefront of fundamental and translational science in pursuit of breakthrough treatment strategies for cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases. Through shared values and an entrepreneurial spirit, we spark innovation to multiply the impact of discovery and answer critical questions for our world.

We believe that hope for tomorrow lives in the students of today. Our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program that develops leaders in molecular and cellular biology. Our inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education help create classrooms where curiosity, creativity and critical thinking thrive.