In education, the New York State Education Department recently approved proposed changes to two master’s programs: Biomedical Data Science and AI, and Biomedical Science. Our revitalized Biomedical Science program now offers specialized tracks and concentrations developed for diverse career objectives. Notably, we have introduced targeted options for working professionals aspiring to leadership roles in industry, including an accelerated one-year pathway. These programs emphasize flexibility, practical training, and innovation, preparing students to excel as future leaders in biomedical research at the intersection with health care.
Reflecting this commitment to accessibility and opportunity, starting in January 2026, both programs will begin offering a Spring entry point. In addition, the Biomedical Data Science and AI program will expand to offer a fully online degree, enabling students everywhere to join the Graduate School community with greater freedom in how and when they pursue their education.
The past year also marked an exciting milestone with the launch of our new $50 million translational research hub, developed in partnership with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. This facility seamlessly integrates biomedical sciences with engineering disciplines to facilitate groundbreaking collaborative research. Complementing these efforts, we launched a new PhD program in Health Sciences Engineering, further reinforcing our commitment to interdisciplinary innovation.
This year, we proudly recognize the extraordinary achievements of two exemplary graduate training faculty members. Under the visionary leadership of Sarah E. Millar, PhD, Dean for Academic and Scientific Affairs, Director of the Black Family Stem Cell Institute, and Chair of the newly established Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, our stem cell research faculty has expanded significantly, successfully recruiting 13 outstanding scientists in recent years. These esteemed researchers are advancing regenerative medicine, genetic engineering, and translational stem cell therapies, substantially enhancing our scientific capabilities and solidifying our position at the forefront of medical discovery.
We also celebrate Miriam Merad, MD, PhD, Director of the Marc and Jennifer Lipschultz Precision Immunology Institute, Mount Sinai Professor of Immunology, Chair of the Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, and Dean for Translational Research and Therapeutic Innovation. Her Virtual Immunotherapy School has gained international acclaim, notably featured in Nature Reviews Immunology. Dr. Merad was recently honored with the 2025 Sjöberg Prize by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and the Sjöberg Foundation for her groundbreaking research on myeloid cells and their essential role in antitumor immunity.
Our students and alumni continue to excel, benefiting from innovative resources, such as secure and adaptive conversational AI tools, accessible to all registered medical and graduate students. Additionally, we have expanded our learning spaces with dedicated library areas designed to facilitate both collaborative and individual study.
The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences eagerly looks forward to another year filled with discovery, innovation, and continued success.
Featured
Marta Filizola, PhD
Dean of the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, the Sharon & Frederick A. Klingenstein/Nathan G. Kase, MD Professor of Pharmacological Sciences, Professor of Neuroscience, and Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Human Health