PhD in Biomedical Engineering
Our PhD in Biomedical Engineering program
UMass Amherst’s PhD in Biomedical Engineering prepares researchers to address fundamental and translational problems in human health. PhD students benefit from direct access to the Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS), a campus-wide research hub that bridges discovery and applied innovation. They work closely with collaborators at UMass Chan Medical School and other New England hospitals.
Research labs in BME span these broad areas:
- Biomedical imaging & artificial intelligence
- Biomedical devices, biosensors, & bioinstrumentation
- Biomaterials & therapeutic delivery
- Biomechanics & multiscale physiology
- Tissue engineering & regenerative medicine
Research Advisor and Funding: Before applying to the PhD program, applicants must identify and connect with a faculty research advisor from the BME core or adjunct faculty and discuss:
- Research fit based on: (i) shared research interests and (ii) applicant’s prior technical skills
- Advisor’s current funding availability
Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in BME or a related field may apply directly to the PhD program.
Visit the Graduate School’s How to Apply page for more information. For questions, email bme-admissions [at] umass [dot] edu (bme-admissions[at]umass[dot]edu).
Benefits list
Research Directions and Faculty Expertise
BME faculty pursue research in biomedical imaging, biomedical devices, biomaterials, biomechanics, and tissue engineering. Faculty are funded by NIH, NSF, and foundation grants, and pursue research spanning fundamental inquiry to translational applications in human health.
Clinical Research at UMass Chan Medical School
BME faculty lab spaces at UMass Chan Medical School give PhD students access to patient data, clinician guidance, and translational opportunities bridging engineering and medicine. A shuttle facilitates inter-campus travel. Joint funding mechanisms support collaborative research.
On-Campus Research Infrastructure at IALS
IALS operates 30 unique core facilities, providing BME doctoral students on-campus access to advanced instrumentation. PhD students benefit from translational training programs including I-Corps and pursue translational research assistantships that bridge discovery and product development.
Application information & deadlines
Applications to the BME PhD program are open for Fall and Spring. Applying by the deadline ensures full consideration for fellowships and sufficient time for visa processing, if applicable.
Spring 2027 application due
Fall 2027 application due
Biomedical Engineering
From bench to bedside, across imaging, materials, and devices, biomedical engineers close the distance between an idea and a cure. Come build with us.