I am interested in medical, dental, pharmacy school, etc. Can I still apply?
These programs are designed for individuals who want to gain research experience and who are exploring bench research as a career trajectory. If you are interested in pursuing research in the future as a clinical provider, these programs may still be a good fit. However, we do not provide clinical shadowing experience or credit-based clinical pre-requisite courses.
I do not have any previous research experience/my degree is non-STEM. Can I still apply?
Yes. As long as you can provide a rationale for why you are interested in these programs and how they align with your future aspirations, you can apply.
Will I get a degree at the end of the program?
No, there is no degree awarded at the end of the program.
Does this program cost money?
No. Because these are not course-based programs, there is no tuition to be covered. There is also no fee to apply. Participants are provided with a salary and benefits for the duration of the program.
Where should my letter writers submit their letters?
Letter writers should submit their letters directly to DBRMpostbacc@email.wustl.edu
Will participants in these programs be considered students?
No, participants in the programs will be classed as full-time, benefits-eligible employees of Washington University, and will receive an annual salary of $35,568, paid on a monthly basis.
I am not a US citizen. Can I apply? Will WUSTL sponsor a work visa for these programs?
Washington University will not sponsor work visas for these programs. For individuals who have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) on an OPT, you may only apply for the DCBRM 2-year program. This is not possible for the PREP 1-year program (only US citizens are eligible).
Is housing included?
No. Participants need to secure their own housing and cover any relocation costs. Depending on needs and desires, there are several housing options available around the WashU School of Medicine Campus.
- The Core Apartment Residences
The Core Apartment Residences offers 160 studio, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments. For more information, please visit their website or email thecore@wustl.edu.
- Off-Campus Living
The Washington University affiliate Quadrangle Housing Co. offers university-owned rental apartments in the neighborhoods immediately surrounding Washington University’s medical and Danforth campuses.
Washington University’s Apartment Referral Services portal connects the WashU community to off-campus housing options.
Check this brief list of neighborhoods in St. Louis City and St. Louis County . Campus shuttle and parking information can be found here.
More information about neighborhoods and relocating to St. Louis can be found here.
Is it possible to start the program earlier or later than August?
Participants are expected to begin the program as a cohort in late August, to be in attendance for the 2-day orientation (August 28th-29th, 2025), and to reside in the St. Louis Metro area for the entirety of the program. Earlier start dates may be possible.
What if I want to work with someone who is not listed on the faculty mentor page?
The people listed on the faculty mentor page are those who have space and funds to support a postbaccalaureate scholar. If your preferred lab is not listed, we suggest reaching out to them directly and inquiring if they would be willing to host a scholar as part of these programs.
Should I contact the mentors I am interested in working with before I apply?
There is no requirement to contact prospective mentors before you apply, but you can if you wish.
How is this different than working as a technician in a lab for 1-2 years?
These programs are designed to enhance readiness for success in research. Specifically, these programs provides opportunities for mentorship, independent research experience, and career development. Successfully completing the program will provide you with the skills needed to enhance your potential for success in applying to graduate school.
Why is the DCBRM program 2 years long?
In order to receive the full benefit of the program, which aims to enhance your potential success in applying to graduate school and improve your readiness in research, it is expected that participants engage for the complete two years. While this is not a contractual agreement, it is a time-limited opportunity lasting up to two years. Continuation in the program is contingent upon satisfactory performance.
If I attend this program, will I be guaranteed admission into a PhD program at Washington University?
We anticipate that the research experience and training that you receive will support your future application to graduate school, including to the programs at Washington University. Should you need extra training and support, there may be circumstances for approval of a short extension to the program as an exception. However, participating in the postbacc program does not guarantee you a spot in any of the other programs at Washington University as they are separate entities.
Have a question that isn’t listed here? Contact us at: DBRMpostbacc@email.wustl.edu