Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist

The Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) Training Program, offered by the Department of Biological Sciences, is a 12 month program that enables students to obtain a Technologist in Molecular Biology (MB) Certificate from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), as well as a California Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) License issued by the California Department of Public Health. The 52-week-long CGMBS program at SJSU prepares students to perform molecular biology diagnostic tests in various settings, including working in hospital clinical laboratories, commercial reference laboratories, or research and development roles in biotech companies. Their expertise and skills in molecular biology techniques are critical for advancing healthcare and biotechnology. Students spend 35 hours a week training on-site at one of our Bay Area clinical affiliates and 5 hours a week taking part in formal coursework online.

Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent higher degree in a biological or clinical laboratory science, or field related to genetics.

18 semester units of biology including

3 semester units of genetics

3 semester units of molecular biology or cell biology

Additional units can be in basic biology, genetics, cell biology, microbiology or molecular biology

10 semester units of chemistry, including biochemistry

Completion of 10 semester units of upper-division biology or chemistry courses with a grade of B or better

12 semester units of upper-division science coursework at a United States university

A minimum GPA of 2.8 on a 4-point scale

Experience with molecular techniques, either through hands-on work (at least 500 work hours) or through classes (at least 9 semester units of laboratory credits in molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, or genetics-related labs)

Three (3) letters of recommendation

Possession of a Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist Trainee License

Acceptance by the SJSU CGMBS Program admissions committee and a clinical affiliate

Legal right to work in the United States

Meet all the requirements of San Jose State University Admissions Department

Be able to pass basic health screen, drug test, background check

Proof of current immunity to Hep B and other infectious diseases as required by our clinical affiliates