Life Inspiring

At the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology

We seek answers to fundamental questions about how organisms work and the many implications for life. Through a rich culture of collaboration, we drive new discoveries in human health and empower students with the critical and analytical skills needed for successful careers.

News from the School of MCB

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RNA binding protein implicated in brain development, fear memory
Researchers from the University of Illinois have identified an RNA binding protein called MOV10 as a critical factor in memory formation and learning. Their findings, published this month in BMC Biology, will...
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American Heart Association awards ‘Fola Adesanya a predoctoral fellowship
Biochemistry PhD candidate ‘Fola Adesanya has been awarded a 2025 predoctoral fellowship from the American Heart Association to support his research into the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of heart defects seen...

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MCB scientists launch new RNA club at University of Illinois
A new club at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign aims to bring together RNA researchers from across campus to share ideas, expertise, and cultivate collaborations. The RNA club is open to all, including faculty, research scientists,...
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College of LAS honors Dr. Stephanie Ceman with teaching award
Dr. Stephanie Ceman, Professor of Cell & Developmental Biology, has been honored with a College of Liberal Arts & Sciences...
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Meet MCB: Undergraduate Johnny Plonsker
Johnny Plonsker, an MCB major and member of Dr. Xin Li's lab, is this year's recipient of the Tom and Cynthia Cycyota Research Fellowship. Communications intern and MCB Honors student Vani Sharma spoke with him for the Cell &...
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New study sheds light on liver maturation, specialization
Researchers from the University of Illinois have identified a key process coordinating liver maturation and polyploidization, a state in which cells carry more than two sets of chromosomes. Their findings, published in Genes and Development,...
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Professor Lori Raetzman on Mentorship, Leadership, & Growth
Dr. Lori Raetzman is a professor of molecular and integrative physiology whose research program focuses on understanding the role of cell-cell signaling during pituitary development. She is also the...
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MCB researchers investigate ways to weaponize bacterial viruses to combat superbugs
Researchers from the University of Illinois have reported complementary discoveries that will improve scientists’ understanding of immune systems in bacteria and equip clinicians with more effective options for treating antibiotic-resistant infections. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria known as...
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Innovative education

Our mission is to empower students. In MCB you will receive a rigorous education and you can tailor a curriculum according to your passions. Our alumni have become physicians, researchers at top-tier institutions, and business leaders. They've launched biotechnology start-ups and founded free healthcare clinics. They are changing the world. You can, too.

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A community of collaborators

Impactful research

We are at the forefront of life-changing biomedical research. Combatting infectious diseases like influenza. Uncovering insights into neurological and metabolic disorders. Developing new treatments for diseases such as breast cancer. New and exciting research programs are being developed in neuroscience, immunology, microbial sciences, developmental biology, mechanobiology, and much more. Faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates are all part of the MCB research community.

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Commitment to diversity, equity & inclusion

Diversity within the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology drives the innovation that keeps our research at the forefront of scientific discovery. However, we recognize that societal, academic, and structural barriers have often kept talented individuals out of our community. We are committed to eliminating these barriers and supporting students and scientists of all backgrounds.

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