Now Accepting Applications! 2026-2027 CBI Program

Dear Graduate Students,

Applications are now open for the UCLA Chemistry-Biology Interface (CBI) Predoctoral Research Training Program, 2026-2027.

The Chemistry Biology Interface (CBI) Predoctoral Research Training Program at UCLA is an NIH-funded program designed to provide research training in the area of chemical approaches to the solution of biological problems. Students selected to participate in this program are trained in the language and techniques of biological and chemical sciences and gain experience as members of multidisciplinary teams working on frontier research at the chemistry-biology interface. Application deadline is August 01, 2026.

Program Components:

- One-quarter internship complementary to your research area

- Rigor/reproducibility and ethics class

- Introduction to Chemistry of Biology course

- Chemistry of Biology Seminar program (student and outside speaker talks)

- Annual MBI/CBI Retreat and CBI Day symposium

Eligibility:

- PhD students working with a CBI Training Faculty member, at the end of their first year (second-years also considered this cycle, for two years of training)

- U.S. citizens or permanent residents (non-permanent residents may apply as Associates, supported by TA/RA funds)

- Applicants from underrepresented groups particularly encouraged

Awards & Funding:

 Awards will be made for two to three years, provided the trainee continues to participate in all CBI activities. A stipend is provided by the NIH, which must be supplemented by the research advisor to the level of a Research Assistantship in the trainee’s department. The NIH provides funds for tuition and fees, as well as yearly travel stipends to scientific meetings.

Collaborator/Co-Mentor Requirement:
Chemistry-focused applicants must identify a Biology Training Faculty member as Collaborator/Co-Mentor; Biology-focused applicants must identify a Chemistry-Biochemistry one. This person must serve on your committee (no letter required from them).

Selection:

Based on academic progress/record, recommendations from your research advisor and two additional references, and your statement of purpose. The CBI Executive Committee selects and guides trainees.

Required Application Materials:

1. Completed CBI application form

2. Statement of purpose (250 words max): proposed research + tentative internship plan, approved/signed by your research sponsor

3. Undergraduate transcripts

4. Graduate school transcript

5. Three Applicant Evaluation Forms: one from your research sponsor, two from other professional references

Additional details can be found on the official website: http://cbi.chem.ucla.edu  

Submit your completed PDF application to CBI Program Administrator Alex Castaneda: alexcastaneda@ucla.edu by August 01 for consideration.

We encourage all eligible students to apply.

Alex Castaneda

CBI Administrator, Administrative Officer II (Chemistry & Biochemistry Department)

alexcastaneda@ucla.edu