AMB Lab
The Applied Molecular Biology (AMB) Lab is the flagship graduate teaching laboratory in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Founded in 1981, the AMB Graduate Program is a one-year, intensive, and accelerated master’s program in the biological sciences that provides students with rigorous, skill-based training in molecular biology alongside independent research projects conducted in collaboration with departmental faculty. The program is designed to competitively prepare students for careers in the biotechnology industry as well as for PhD programs, medical school, and related pathways. Each cohort enrolls a maximum of 12 students, selected through a competitive process, with a strong emphasis on hands-on scientific learning and communication. For more information click here.
2025-2026 AMB Lab Team
Courtney De Leon
I am a 2025 graduate of UMBC with a bachelors in Biological Sciences and minor in Emergency Health Services on the pre-med track, with special interests in female reproductive health and research. Affiliate of STEM BUILD, Meyerhoff (M33), U-RISE, and Duke-PRIME Cancer.
Joash Thomas
My name is Joash. I’m pursuing the AMB program with hopes of going into industry soon after. In my free time, I love hanging out with friends, going on walks in nature, and cooking.
Rachel Manning
I am a 2024 graduate of St. Mary's College of Maryland with a bachelors in both Biochemistry and Biology on the pre-PhD track. I have conducted research exploring the kinetic properties of phosphomimetic malate dehydrogenase, and am currently exploring tonB dependent receptors in Cellvibrio japonicus.
Cole Cheng
I am a 2025 UMBC graduate in Biological Sciences with a Chemistry minor and academic interests in cell biology and genetics. Outside of research, I have a background in performing arts and a love for illustration.
Nicky Wroten
I graduted from UMBC in 2025 with a B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and an interest in cancer biology. When I’m not in the lab you can find me either wrapped up in a good book or my latest crochet project.
Hannah Wallace
My name is Hannah, and I graduated from UMBC, in 2025, with a B.S. in Biological Sciences and minors in Environmental Sciences and Dance. I am interested in evolution, ecology, and animal behavior—particularly sexual selection, mating systems, and parental care.
Interested in joining the AMB lab?
Interested students feel free to reach out to AMB Director, Dr. Chugh. We are always on the look out for talented and passionate students who are looking to enhance their scientific research and communication skills in pursuit of their careers.