Computation and Engineering in the Life Sciences (CELLS)

Can AI be used to improve medical diagnoses? Is there a way to model how the human brain works? How can we predict how measures designed to fight climate change will impact ecosystems?

The CELLS program connects students to careers in biology where they can harness the power of computer science and analytics to answer these big questions in the life sciences. This early engagement career program is an excellent fit for students who are seeking careers at the intersection of biology and data, including biotech, bioinformatics, neuroscience, pharmacology, and more!

Join us for a two-year highly selective adventure, entirely unique to the University of Chicago, where you’ll gain the professional skills and experience you need to thrive in the field.

All rising first-year students are eligible to apply for CELLS. Prior experience is not required!

COMPREHENSIVE CAREER PREPARATION

Over the course of two years, CELLS participants complete immersive and exploratory career preparation programming that includes professional development workshops, funded internships and research experiences, and invaluable networking opportunities with upper-division student mentors, industry leaders and faculty.

WHAT STUDENTS CAN EXPECT

  • Comprehensive exploration of Computational Biology career pathways

  • Employer-led workshops on Data Science and Coding topics

  • Networking opportunities and expert speaker events

  • Professional development training including public speaking, research talks, and presenting work at conferences

How to Apply

Applications will open for Class of 2028 students on May 16 and will be due by July 8, 2024. Interested students can apply using this form.

QUESTIONS?

For more information about CELLS, please contact Tiana Bowden at tianab@uchicago.edu.

EMPLOYER PARTNERSHIPS

With the support of top tech and business firms, national laboratories, and intrepid entrepreneurs, CELLS facilitates pivotal career and industry exploration opportunities for our students.

Thank you to our current Employer Partners for providing incredible mentorship and career exploration opportunities in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, computational biology, research and development, technological innovation, software development, biotechnology, and data science!

Employers: Get Involved

Career Advancement invites employers to connect with CELLS through a gamut of enriching ways, including internships and research opportunities, career treks, job shadowing, participation as an industry speaker or mentor, and other signature events. To become an Employer Partner with CELLS, please contact Tiana Bowden at tianab@uchicago.edu.

THANK YOU TO OUR COMMITTEE!

Heather Marlow
Assistant Professor of Organismal Biology and Anatomy Committee on Genetics, Genomics and Systems Biology

Dan Nicolae
Professor Departments of Statistics, Human Genetics, Medicine
Faculty Co-Director, Data Science Institute

John Anderson
Associate Professor of Chemistry

Jessica Sweeney
Director of Research Programs and Strategy at the Data Science Institute