Culture at MIT Biology
Department Culture
We are really proud of our department culture at MIT Biology.
The department values graduate students. Faculty members treat students like colleagues, and that respect helps to create a really welcoming, comfortable, and productive environment.
Students in our department are primarily spread across three main biology buildings: Building 68, the Koch Institute, and the Whitehead Institute. Some students also work in labs in Picower, McGovern, Ragon, and Broad institutes located in close proximity to MIT campus. Each has a distinct sub-culture, so feel free to ask current students about it!
Lab Culture
The labs available for you to work in as an MIT Biology student are highly diverse in many ways.
In addition to covering a vast range of research topics and experimental approaches, MIT Biology faculty is comprised of brand-new hires just starting their lab to well-established PIs. Lab sizes vary from small (<8 members) to large (around 30), and from highly structured to very relaxed.
One of the goals of rotations is to help you find what kind of lab environment and mentorship style works best for you, and to help match you up with a lab where you’ll feel confident and able to succeed.
MIT Culture
MIT is a tight-knit community with a vibrant, quirky culture.
This culture is built by both the graduate and undergraduate students. Did you know that MIT enrolls 4,500 undergraduates, but over 7,000 graduate students?
Browse around the official MIT website for more information about student organizations and various other aspects of MIT culture. Or, ask us about it!
Student Resources and DEI Groups
Biograds’ Favorite Spots On Campus
The ‘Pit’
This is where first-year Biograds spend most of their time hanging out, studying, and partying! There is a ping-pong table, a pool table, as well as a pantry that comes with kitchen appliances and supplies.
Banana Lounge
Do you know MIT has a Banana Lounge that offers students free bananas during the semester? Check out this article if you’re interested!
Libraries
There are five libraries on campus that are open to students 24/7. Hayden Library has a gorgeous view facing the Charles River. Barker Library has a main reading room that is inside MIT’s famous Great Dome. Check out the MIT Libraries website to learn more!
Gyms
There are two gyms located at the Zesiger Center and the Alumni/Wang Center. They are open to students for free. Grad students also have the option to take sports classes during the semester or summer. Check out the MIT Recreation website to learn more!
What Biograds Do Outside Work
We like to work hard but also play hard! Check out the ‘Life in the City’ page to learn more about what the city has to offer and the various student perks!
Ice skating
Apple picking in the fall
Walks along the Esplanade
Laser tag and escape room
Combat archery
Brunch outing
‘Pit’ party
New England road trips
Ping-pong
Holiday party
Group Halloween costume
Class outside
Biograd Halloween Videos
The biology department organizes a Halloween party every year and biograds tend to get real creative with their biology-themed costumes. Here are some music videos from the past years for you to enjoy!