Winners announced for 2026 Life Inspiring art, science contest

RNAscope confocal images of mouse brain with watercolor textures photographed and digitally layered into a single composition
The School of Molecular & Cellular Biology is pleased to congratulate the 2026 winners of its “Life Inspiring” art competition, which celebrates the intersection of life sciences and art.Students, staff, and faculty were encouraged to submit original works of art reflecting their scientific...

Meet MCB alumnus and convocation speaker Dr. Guy Padbury

Guy Padbury in a dark suit and red tie
The School of Molecular & Cellular Biology is pleased to announce Dr. Guy Padbury as the guest speaker for its May 2026 convocation. On a recent visit to campus, he spoke about his path to Illinois, his work as a translational scientist, and what inspires him. Dr. Padbury’s career has been...

Creating Connection: How peer mentorship is reshaping graduate life in MCB

graduate students and their peer mentors give thumbs up and peace signs to camera while sitting in an auditorium
When graduate students arrive on campus for the first time, many of them coming from distant states or other countries, their first days can feel isolating as they navigate choosing a lab and research focus, deciding where to live, securing employment, and building new friendships. These challenges...

MCB graduate research shines at annual retreat

retreat organizers stand in two rows with the keynote speaker and school director
Over 240 scholars from across the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology and related units gathered at the I Hotel and Conference Center on Aug. 19, 2025, for the school's annual Graduate Research Retreat. Seventy-two graduate students presented their research as oral or poster presentations....

Congratulating the 2024 student award winners

A large group of people gathered in a conference center.
The School of Molecular & Cellular Biology honored dozens of undergraduate and graduate students at its annual award ceremony, held on May 2. These student awards, fellowships, and scholarships recognize academic achievement, research accomplishments, and excellence in teaching and are made...