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What is Cell and Molecular Biology?

Get a Master's in Cell and Molecular Biology

The Cell and Molecular Biology M.S.

Deepen your expertise and research skills to excel in your career or pursue further graduate study.

In the cell and molecular biology M.S. program, you’ll explore the molecular mechanisms behind cellular functions, advancing knowledge in life sciences and disease.

Gain hands-on expertise in DNA and protein purification, recombinant DNA technology, genomics, bioinformatics and biotechnology—essential skills for breakthroughs in medicine and biopharmaceuticals.

Tailored coursework and research prepare you for doctoral study or careers in biomedical research, biotechnology and beyond.

Top 15%
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Tier 1
Best National University
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Top 5.8%
World University Ranking
The Center for World University Rankings

Why Choose Florida Tech for Cell and Molecular Biology?

At Florida Tech, our focused cell and molecular biology master's degree program offers personalized mentorship and opportunities for hands-on learning. Alongside faculty you'll engage in cutting-edge research, gaining the skills and experience needed to advance discoveries in life sciences.

In the M.S. in cell and molecular biology, students delve into the molecular mechanisms that drive life, advancing our understanding of health and disease.

Through coursework, hands-on research and cutting-edge techniques, students stay at the forefront of scientific discovery, preparing to contribute to breakthroughs in medicine, biotechnology and related fields. 

At the core of this dynamic program is our distinguished faculty.

Faculty conduct research across a wide range of topics, including microbial genetics, protein biochemistry, neurodegeneration, vascular biology and plant molecular interactions. Their work advances understanding of chromosome replication, proteasome regulation, amyloid fiber formation and molecular pathways in disease and plant-biotic interactions, driving innovations in medicine and sustainable agriculture.

Guided by our experienced faculty, students gain the knowledge, mentorship and research opportunities needed to excel in cell and molecular biology.

At Florida Tech, you’ll have access to facilities designed to inspire innovation and discovery.

The F.W. Olin Life Sciences Building is equipped for advanced work in cellular and molecular biology. Complementing this is the new Gordon L. Nelson Health Sciences building, which offers over 20,000 square feet of modern classrooms and state-of-the-art research laboratories.

These facilities boast advanced instrumentation for gene sequencing, recombinant DNA technology and tissue culture. Additionally, the Center for High-Resolution Microscopy and Imaging provides the capability to prepare and analyze almost any type of sample, enabling detailed imaging of surfaces and cross-sections.

Our cell and molecular biology program prepares graduates for impactful careers by combining the latest advancements in the field with excellent research opportunities. Students are empowered to conduct cutting-edge research using the university’s exceptional facilities and resources.

Your thesis is an opportunity to conduct original research of publishable quality, allowing you to dive deep into a topic that sparks your curiosity and contribute new insights to cell and molecular biology. Through this process, you'll develop specialized expertise, stand out in careers that value advanced knowledge, and lay the groundwork for future doctoral studies.

Thesis research is conducted under the direction of an advisor and an advisory committee. Working closely with faculty mentors offers personalized guidance and networking opportunities. You’ll present a departmental thesis seminar before graduation, and the Florida Tech Scholarship Repository ensures permanent open access to your research.

Florida Tech’s location in a high-tech corridor makes it ideal for your cell and molecular biology master’s degree.

Our area has one of the largest high-tech workforces in the country, and that means numerous internship and employment opportunities for our students. Our 130-acre campus is in the heart of the Space Coast; NASA-Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral is just north of us.

When it’s time to unwind, you’ll enjoy easy access to 72 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches and the Indian River Lagoon, North America’s most biodiverse estuary. Plus, the Florida Keys and Orlando’s world-famous theme parks are just a short drive away, giving you a perfect balance of career-building and recreation.

At Florida Tech, our campus is a hub of global connections, where students from the U.S. and around the world come together to create a rich, dynamic environment. This sense of community fosters mutual understanding and collaboration, reflecting the increasingly interconnected world we all share.

Whether you're a U.S. student seeking to broaden your horizons through interacting with peers from other countries or an international student exploring new opportunities in the U.S., Florida Tech offers an opportunity for learning, sharing and growing in a truly global setting.

Prospective students are encouraged to get in touch with the department. Connecting with faculty members can help applicants identify potential advisors aligned with their research interests.

For full application information, please see our graduate admission requirements, or start your application now!

Careers in Cell and Molecular Biology

A master’s in cell and molecular biology from Florida Tech prepares graduates for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical research, genetic engineering and more.

With opportunities in business, industry and government, graduates may work in research, process development or quality control across fields such as healthcare, agriculture and biomanufacturing. Many also pursue doctoral studies.

Among employers that have hired our graduates are the American Museum of Natural History, EPCOT, Genetics Associates, Inc., Moffitt Cancer Center and Biogen.

Cell and molecular biology careers include:

  • Assay development scientist
  • Biocomputational biologist
  • Biomanufacturing or bioprocessing scientist
  • Biomedical scientist
  • Biopharmaceutical scientist
  • Biotechnology researcher
  • Cell culture specialist
  • Clinical research associate
  • Computational biologist
  • Genomics scientist
  • Medical and clinical laboratory scientist
  • Molecular biologist
  • Regulatory affairs specialist
  • Research associate
  • Toxicologist

Florida Tech Career Services assists students, alumni and employers in their search for careers and employee candidates. We help students develop career plans and job-search skills. Explore our Career Toolbox to learn more about our services and access additional resources.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), provides job information including median annual pay, working conditions and job outlook, among other things. Check the handbook for information on the outlook for cell and molecular biology careers.

Advanced Degree Options

After receiving a master’s in cell and molecular biology, many graduates enter a doctoral program. Along with the opportunity to further their scientific research, a doctorate can increase an individual’s earning potential and position them as a subject-matter expert.

Qualified students who are planning to pursue the Ph.D. in cell and molecular biology may also consider applying directly to the doctoral program upon completion of their undergraduate degree.

Cell and Molecular Biology, Ph.D.

Explore the Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S., Curriculum

The Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S., Curriculum

The cell and molecular biology master’s program is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in the function and interactions of cellular and molecular components.

You’ll work with your advisor to plan a program of study customized to your interests and goals. Explore topics such as:

  • Cell signaling in health and disease, focusing on cellular responses and therapeutic targets.
  • Bioinformatics, genomics and proteomics, providing computational tools for DNA, RNA and protein analysis.
  • Microbial reproduction, gene expression regulation and cell division mechanisms.
  • Cancer biology, emphasizing oncogenes and oncogenic viruses.
  • Molecular genetics, exploring experimental approaches to disease mapping.

Your research and study will culminate in preparation and oral defense of a thesis, and presentation of a graduate thesis seminar.

Check the catalog for a description of all courses.

Download the Cell and Molecular Biology, M.S., Curriculum now!

Dr. Nunes and student working with a centrifuge

Research in Cell and Molecular Biology

Graduate student using an atomic force microscope

Cell and molecular biology graduate students contribute to faculty-led research that advances our understanding of cellular processes and disease mechanisms. Areas of research focus include:

Molecular Mechanisms of Disease & Therapeutics
Investigating proteasome regulation, neurodegeneration and vascular function to identify novel drug targets and therapeutic strategies.

Microbial & Protein Biochemistry
Studying bacterial chromosome replication to develop new antimicrobials and examining amyloid fiber formation associated with disease.

Cell Signaling & Regulation
Exploring how the ubiquitin-proteasome system, autophagy and proteasome trafficking influence cellular health, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology
Uncovering plant-biotic interactions to enhance crop resilience, improve disease resistance and advance sustainable agriculture.

Through hands-on research and close faculty mentorship, students gain expertise in molecular biology techniques while contributing to discoveries that advance medicine, biotechnology and agriculture.

Learn more about Cell and Molecular Biology at Florida Tech on the website.

Hands-On Experience With High-Tech Tools

Our cell and molecular biology program prepares students for rewarding careers by blending emerging advances in the field with exceptional research opportunities.

Graduate students conduct cutting-edge investigations using the university’s advanced laboratory resources. Whether mapping molecules at the nanoscale or sequencing genetic material in real time, students don’t just learn about breakthrough technologies—they put them into practice.

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