Biology & Biotechnology

In the Department of Biology and Biotechnology at WPI, our work goes far beyond the theoretical.

Our faculty members and students are creative problem solvers who are passionate about using biological concepts in innovative, applicable ways. Ranging from cancer biology and infectious disease research to studies of brain plasticity and the health effects of environmental contaminants, student-driven research at WPI is making an impact.

Interdisciplinary collaboration at WPI leads to game-changing breakthroughs.

At our state-of-the-art research facilities, students, faculty, and company researchers collaborate across disciplines. The free exchange of ideas enable critical advances in healthcare, therapeutics, regenerative biology, the environment, and more.

Degree is also offered online.

Area of Study	Bachelor	Minor	Certificate	Master	PhD
Bioinformatics & Computational Biology	bachelor			master	phd
Biology		minor
Biology & Biotechnology	bachelor			master	phd
Biomanufacturing			Online certificate
Bioscience Management				Online master
Biotechnology				master
This degree is also offered Online.
Global Health				master
Global Public Health		minor
Life Sciences Management			Online certificate
Neuroscience				master

Rewarding Career in Biology & Biotechnology

Bioinformatician, wildlife biologist, geneticist, neuroscience researcher—there’s no limit.

Your Return on Investment

Work for Industry Leaders

WPI biology and biotechnology graduates are hired by top companies like AbbVie, Bristol Myers Squibb, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Moderna, Pfizer, and more.

Job Opportunities

Alumni Story

“I learned to work with people. Knowing how to deal with various stakeholders, managing their respective needs and wants, that all came from WPI.”

See Jennifer’s career journey

Lauren Abraham, '24, MS '26

MS in Biotechnology

Lauren enjoys the hands-on project and lab work offered at WPI and appreciates the engaging interactions with knowledgeable faculty. [...]

Sophia Kouznetsov '26

BS in Psychological & Cognitive Sciences and Bioinformatics & Computational Biology

While working on her research and academic goals, Sophia stays active by pursuing her love of dance and other extra-curricular activities.[...]

Sakshi Joglekar '24

BS in Biology & Biotechnology and Psychology

International student Sakshi loves to share her culture with others and leans on the support of the community to help her thrive[...]

Dynamic Innovation

Build Career-Ready Skills Using the Latest Tech

As a student, get unmatched access to real-world technology and applications in our cutting-edge laboratories and facilities, including the Neurotechnology Suite, Biomanufacturing Education and Training Center, PracticePoint, and Cell Engineering Research Equipment Suite. You’ll gain professional experience by assisting WPI researchers and industry partners with study runs, product tests, protocol development, and more.

PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

Solve Real-World Problems & Make an Impact

Take the hypothetical and make it real. With our project-based learning model, you’ll apply biology and biotechnology concepts to concrete problems, playing a meaningful role in improving the health of our planet and its inhabitants. Just as important, these projects will build your confidence, leadership, collaborative, and critical thinking skills. It’s not just what you learn, but how you learn, that will transform your future.

COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH

Work Together on the Next Big Thing

WPI was built for discovery. Our facilities, labs, workshops, and studios all exist to facilitate cross-discipline research. Whether it’s with classmates, faculty, or corporate partners, you’ll benefit from new perspectives and immerse yourself in work you’re passionate about.

Our Mission

To deliver the highest quality Life Science education through including project-based learning, foster research that enriches our understanding of life's principles and impacts health and to build a community that nurtures a sense of collegiality and shared responsibility.

Our Vision

To cultivate scientific literacy and curiosity among students and to generate new knowledge through our research that drives change for the better. OUR VALUES are to foster an environment where everyone: is treated with RESPECT, feels EMPOWERED to do their best work, feels INCLUDED, safe and valued.

Our Community

Includes undergraduates (our best ambassadors, tuition driven institution), Masters' students (work force development), Doctoral students (research), K-12 (pipeline, outreach), alumni, faculty, staff, and parents.

Q&A with Professor Karen Oates

The professor of biology and biotechnology answers questions about the Master of Science in Global Health.

Alumni Success Story

Breaking New Ground for Women's Health

With Opal Therapeutics, Morgan Stanton, PhD ’14, accelerates the development of new treatments for gynecological diseases and disorders.

Donor Profile

Trae and Steve Vassallo ’93

These donors committed a seven-figure philanthropic gift to establish the Dr. Helen G. Vassallo Distinguished Presidential Professorship in memory of Steve’s mother.