The Undergraduate Program in Molecular Biology is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to explore the central questions of 21st-century biology. Undergraduates declare their major at the end of their sophomore year, and 60 to 70 students choose Molecular Biology. A majority of undergraduates plan to attend medical school after graduation, while others pursue advanced academic or professional study, and others proceed directly to employment. 

The undergraduate program in Molecular Biology is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to explore the central questions of 21st century biology. Our distinguished faculty are fully engaged in teaching and cutting-edge research on topics ranging from molecules to genomes. A cohesive core curriculum and a diversity of elective courses deliver a strong foundation in modern experimental biology. The capstone of a Princeton education is the senior thesis, when students consolidate their learning in a piece of original scholarship. In the Department of Molecular Biology, the senior thesis is a remarkable opportunity for students to work with world famous scientists, conducting independent research at the frontiers of modern science. Princeton's collegial and interactive environment also makes it easy for Molecular Biology students to pursue interdisciplinary interests, taking courses and working with faculty in chemistry, computer science, EEB, engineering, neuroscience, physics, and the School of Public and International Affairs. Upon graduation, Molecular Biology majors are poised to pursue a wide range of careers, including biomedical research, medicine, global health and policy, industry, education, and science writing.

The Molecular Biology Undergraduate web pages are designed to provide information to prospective students and current majors about the curriculum and degree requirementsresearch opportunities and independent workresources, and career activities. Use the links to learn more about these and other facets of the program.

Contacts

Undergraduate Teaching Mission

Students concentrating in Molecular Biology will attain both breadth and depth in Molecular Biology and associated areas of science.

Molecular Biology Major

The Molecular Biology major is one of the larger concentrations at Princeton, with 60 to 70 sophomores joining the department each spring. 

Molecular Biology Research

Molecular Biology majors can conduct original research in the laboratories of world-class scientists.

Junior Independent Work

The undergraduate research program starts in junior year with the MOL 350 course and junior tutorials.

Undergraduate Community

The Department of Molecular Biology and Princeton University offer a wide range of resources to help you become an engaged member of the larger scientific community.

Career Resources

Resources for students pursuing a career, including guidance on job searching, resume building, interview preparation, and professional development opportunities.

Enthusiastic student surrounded by colleagues on Declaration Day.

Helpful Links

Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP)

Intensive laboratory research for current Princeton MOL rising seniors (doing lab theses) and Princeton rising sophomores and juniors working with LSI faculty.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Calendar of dates and deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year.