Post-Bachelor's Certificate in Synthetic Biology

UNC Greensboro’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Synthetic Biology provides graduate-level training in the design, analysis, and modification of biological systems. Offered through the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN), the 12-credit program brings together concepts from molecular biology, biochemistry, nanoscience, biomaterials, and biotechnology. Students explore how biological molecules, cells, and systems can be understood and engineered for new functions and applications. Coursework can address areas such as systems and synthetic biology, physical biology, molecular biology, immunology, biosensors, biomaterials, and emerging technologies at the intersection of biology and nanoscience. The certificate is designed for students and professionals with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, or related STEM fields who want specialized graduate training in synthetic biology without immediately pursuing a full graduate degree.

Why Choose UNCG for the Synthetic Biology PBC

Synthetic biology sits at the intersection of biology, chemistry, engineering, computation, and nanoscience. At JSNN, students study in an interdisciplinary research environment where these fields come together to investigate and design biological and biologically inspired systems.

Synthetic biology research at JSNN includes areas such as engineered biological systems, nucleic acid-based materials, biosensors, bioengineering, personalized medicine, and emerging connections between biological and semiconductor technologies.

The certificate allows students to build focused expertise through four graduate courses while gaining exposure to scientific concepts and technologies that are increasingly relevant to biotechnology, biomedical research, advanced materials, diagnostics, and other research-driven industries.

The Synthetic Biology PBC Student Experience

Students study synthetic biology within JSNN’s interdisciplinary research environment, where biological sciences intersect with nanoscience, materials science, engineering, and emerging technologies. The flexible 12-credit curriculum allows students to select courses that complement their existing STEM background or build expertise in new areas such as molecular biology, biosensors, biomaterials, immunology, and engineered biological systems. Students may complete the certificate on a full-time or part-time basis, making the program an option for recent STEM graduates as well as professionals seeking specialized graduate training.

• Extensive hands-on research experience
• Access to advanced technology and facilities at JSNN
• Strong faculty mentorship
• Students may complete the certificate full-time or part-time
• Dedicated student and professional organizations for support, collaboration, and networking

“Dr. Wu’s research into a new method for delivering anti-inflammatory medicines to the body could prove transformative.”

– Michelle Bolas, interim CEO, NCInnovation

Read How Dr. Wu’s grant-funded nanoscience research could reshape medical treatment.

Career Opportunities and Outcomes

Graduate training in synthetic biology can strengthen preparation for research and technical work in organizations using biological systems, molecular technologies, biomaterials, and biotechnology.

Relevant career areas can include:

• Biotechnology research and development
• Molecular and cellular biology
• Synthetic biology research
• Biomedical research
• Biosensors and diagnostics
• Biomaterials and bioengineering
• Pharmaceutical and drug-development research
• Agricultural biotechnology
• Laboratory and analytical science
• Emerging biological and nanoscale technologies

The certificate can also provide additional preparation for graduate study in synthetic biology, nanoscience, biotechnology, molecular biology, bioengineering, biomedical science, or related STEM disciplines.