What are our programs?
The Departments of Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, & Regenerative Medicine (DCBRM) offer both 1-year and 2-year postbaccalaureate research programs designed to provide college graduates with additional research experience to make them competitive for advanced careers in biomedical science. Both programs provide a fully funded research position in labs performing cutting edge research. More information about the programs are below:
Program 1: DCBRM Postbacc Program
- 2 year paid postbaccalaureate research position
Program 2: PREP Postbacc Program
- 1 year paid postbaccalaureate research position
- This program is ideal for students from diverse backgrounds interested in a NIH NIGMS funded R25 Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP)
Both programs are designed to primarily be a research-focused, where the participants will spend most of their time in the laboratory of a selected mentor. However, they will also provide additional training and opportunities for participants to achieve readiness in three main areas: readiness for research, readiness for academics, and readiness for self-presentation. This will be accomplished through a curriculum that provides educational opportunities in addition to training in the laboratory. Among these will be opportunities to attend tailored workshops, seminars, research forums, and graduate-level classes. A major focus will be workshops on preparing a Curriculum Vitae and applying to graduate school. These programs are intended to provide research experience for those individuals intending to pursue research oriented biomedical science degree programs, such as those offering the PhD or MD/PhD degrees. These programs do not provide additional preparation for those seeking to pursue an MD or other health-related degrees.
Who is this program for?
We are looking for college graduates who are interested in pursuing PhD or professional/PhD programs (MD/PhD, DO/PhD, DDS/PhD, etc), but who 1) don’t have sufficient research experience to be competitive for such programs and 2) aren’t sure if a PhD program is right for them and want more time in a research-intensive program to experience what life is like as a graduate student.
Washington University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. We encourage applications of motivated individuals regardless of race, gender, creed, or nationality.
When can I apply, and when does the program start?
Our application cycle starts December 1, 2024. Please apply by March 1, 2025 for full consideration. Interviews will begin after this deadline. Accepted trainees will begin as a cohort on August 28, 2025. The DCBRM program is designed to last for two years, ending in July. The PREP program is designed to last for 1 year, ending in July.
Why should I apply?
Graduate programs are becoming increasingly competitive. Through our postbaccalaureate program, you can gain valuable research experience working in world-class labs on fundamental and translational research projects. In addition, you receive mentoring and guidance on scientific communication and graduate school applications and interviews through our career development curriculum.
How do I apply?
If you are interesting in applying, please visit our application page for more details and instructions. Please also review our eligibility requirements and explore faculty mentors who you would be interested in working with.