MCP Admissions

The Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology (MCP) offers a course of study leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. The program of study is designed to prepare students for careers in research and teaching, with a major emphasis on training in research. Students work closely with a dissertation adviser and members of a research group on novel and important biological problems at the cellular and molecular level.  Each student’s program of study is created in consultation with the adviser to best fulfill the student’s unique educational goals.  

We encourage applications from all qualified persons interested in pursuing a career in scientific research.

Please visit  https://biosciences.stanford.edu/ for more information.  

2027 APPLICATION DEADLINE

Tuesday, December 1, 2026

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in any major, or equivalent international degree
• Coursework in: Physiology; Cell and developmental biology; Basic biochemistry and molecular biology; Genetics
• At least one year of university coursework in each of the following: Physics; Differential and integral calculus; Organic and inorganic chemistry
• The department is especially interested in those applicants who have research experience in the biological sciences

APPLICATION PROCESS

Admission of Ph.D. students into Molecular and Cellular Physiology (MCP) occurs through the Biosciences Ph.D. Program. Please review the complete up-to-date- information about the application process here.

• Applications are available online in early September at http://gradadmissions.stanford.edu.
• Submit application, including transcripts and letters of recommendation by the deadline.

The Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology (MCP) recognizes the Supreme Court ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision. MCP welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. The review process is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, prior research experience, and admissions essays to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field and how they might enrich the learning community at Stanford.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

• Students matriculated into the program receive a stipend to help defray normal living expenses
• Stanford tuition costs are paid for the student under terms defined in the MCP Graduate Student Handbook.
• All applicants are urged to compete for non-Stanford fellowships or scholarships, and U.S. citizens should complete an application for a National Science Foundation fellowship.

QUESTIONS

Additional inquiries can be directed to: