Financial support

It is the philosophy of the faculty and the Graduate Studies Committee that all doctoral students actively studying in the MCDB Program should be provided with financial support either by the program or by their research advisor. Students are appointed as Graduate Associates or Fellows and receive a competitive stipend throughout their time in program.

The regular MCDB stipend for academic year 2023-2024 is $2,696 per month ($32,346 annually).  This typically increases by 2-3% each year.  Graduate Associateship and Fellowship awards are accompanied by fee authorizations that cover academic tuition and fees except for city bus fee, a student activity fee, a recreation facility fee, student legal services fee, and a student union fee.  In addition, all students are automatically enrolled in a comprehensive student health insurance plan, with 100% of the premiums paid by the University.

First-year students are supported by the program while they perform laboratory rotations.  After selecting a laboratory, most students are supported by their advisors' research grants as Graduate Research Associates (GRAs), although they may also be supported as Graduate Teaching Associates (GTAs). 

Outstanding incoming students may be eligible for a variety of fellowships from the Graduate School.  To be considered for these fellowships, the applicant must indicate interest by checking the appropriate box on the application form.  Current students with outstanding records may also be eligible for support from additional intramural and extramural Fellowships and Training Programs