As of March 2025, the Kanbar College of Design & Engineering is not accepting applications to our PhD in Biologics Process Engineering program for the upcoming term. Please contact Admissions with questions at enroll@jefferson.edu or call 215-951-2800. The content on this page describes the program when it was paused.
If you are seeking a PhD level research program but find that returning from industry to pursue your degree is a challenge, we have created a special Industry Sponsored PhD (IS-PhD) Program to help remove the technical obstacles and financial barriers standing in your way.
The IS-PhD Program in Biologics Process Engineering is devoted to fostering and providing real life experience in process and product development and is focused on translating life science discoveries in emerging therapies into practical outcomes. The IS-PhD Program is delivered by Thomas Jefferson University’s Jefferson Institute for Bioprocessing (JIB).
JIB is a multidisciplinary institute devoted to creating foundations in bioprocess engineering for the large-scale production of biopharmaceuticals and biologics, including for example, PD-1 and PD-L1 based immunotherapies, fusion proteins, bispecific antibodies and Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs). We are also working on resolving several technical process and scale up challenges associated with the commercialization of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) which include cell and gene therapy, as well as genomic vaccines.
Cell and gene therapies and genomic vaccines are exceptionally efficacious. However, these therapies are not currently available in quantities sufficient to treat large patient populations. Our research is focused on addressing relevant scale-up issues and creating the necessary bioprocess engineering solutions.
Automation, process integration, modelling, computational methodologies, big data analytics and artificial intelligence combined with single-use and continuous bioprocessing, promise to revolutionize next generation biomanufacturing operations. Bioprocess engineers and scientists at JIB work seamlessly at the boundaries of life sciences, physics, mathematics and engineering to create innovative solutions to help patients and increase economic prosperity. Our faculty and staff have the depth and breadth of experience that is needed for success and will continue to advance the forefront of knowledge and technology for commercialization of ATMPs.
The PhD in Biologics Process Engineering is a full time 3-year program requiring a minimum of 54 credits to graduate. Candidates are required to complete 6 credits each semester, including the Fall, Spring and Summer terms. Through this Program, the Jefferson Institute for Bioprocessing seeks to promote the attainment of marked ability, scholarship, leadership and research skills within the field. Additionally, JIB will provide candidates with unparalleled access to facilities and support to investigate novel concepts and hypotheses, as well as unmatched opportunities to explore the impact of engineering science research in an industry-based environment.
To be considered for JIB’s IS-PhD program, you must have a master’s degree in a relevant area and a sponsoring company in the biopharma sector. Privately funded options are also available.
PhD in Biologics Process Engineering Program Now STEM Eligible
STEM eligibility allows international students on an F-1 student status to apply for an additional two years of work authorization after an initial 12-month period of Post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States if they meet the required criteria.
For more information about OPT and F-1 student status, please visit the Jefferson Office of International Services website.