The Center for Biotechnology & Interdisciplinary Studies (CBIS) is a uniquely focused on collaborative research at the frontiers of life sciences, physical science, informatics, and engineering. One of the most advanced biotechnology research facilities in the U.S., CBIS is committed to innovative interdisciplinary research. We also offer a comprehensive academic suite of undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral education programs through Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Schools of Science, Engineering, Architecture, Business, and Humanities.
This year marks CBIS’ 10th anniversary. We are proud of the breakthrough work by our world-class faculty and students. Our contributions to date in protein synthesis and manufacturing, regenerative medicine, biomaterials, and bioinformatics point the way to exciting new avenues of exploration. And our new multi-laboratory capabilities in stem cell research provide unique opportunities to combine cell biology, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, and informatics research.
Facilities and Equipment
Our dedicated 218,000 square foot facility, opened in 2004, is home to state-of-the art laboratories and equipment unique in our area. We offer eight Core Facilities that support our own stellar faculty, students, visiting faculty, and postdoctoral fellows to conduct groundbreaking investigations. These facilities are also available to other university researchers and to commercial enterprises.
Industry Resources & Collaborations
This year we are also expanding our outreach to industry with a formalized Industry Partners Program. By offering industry access to our extensive resources in life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering, our industry partners can cost-effectively develop new and innovative commercial solutions. CBIS is also an active participant in the campus-wide technology commercialization partnership with the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai.
Research and Constellations
CBIS is home to groundbreaking research in Biologics, Bioimaging, Biomanufacturing, Biomolecular Science & Engineering, Biophysics & Structural Biology, Microbiomics, Neuroscience, and Stem Cell Bioengineering.
We have four endowed faculty Constellations: Biocatalysis and Metabolic Engineering, Functional Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (PDF), Biocomputation and Bioinformatics, and Integrated Systems Biology.
Education
CBIS is a rich academic and research resource for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows. As an interdisciplinary center, we draw on the skills of faculty in the schools of Engineering, Science, Architecture, Management, and Humanities Arts & Social Sciences. We actively cultivate cross-enterprise collaborations to spur the innovative educational approaches that have established Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute as a world-class technological university with global reach and impact in research and academics.
Interdisciplinary Academic Initiatives
CBIS is at the forefront of campus initiatives to foster collaborative explorations among diverse disciplines. We are proud of the work of faculty, students, scientists, and entrepreneurs to forge combined pathways for art and biotech, for science and business, and for architecture and biotechnology. Learn about current active initiatives.