Convocation

School of MCB Convocation, Spring 2026

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The School of MCB May 2026 convocation is at 9 a.m. Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. 

Questions about the School of MCB convocation can be sent to convocation@mcb.illinois.edu or by calling 217-333-6774. 

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Eligibility for 2026 Convocation Participation
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Students who have completed degree requirements in August 2025 or December 2025, or will complete degree requirements in May 2026 or August 2026 are eligible to participate in the May 17, 2026 ceremony.

Register

Undergraduate Degree

  • Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
  • Bachelor of Science in LAS with major in MCB Honors Concentration
  • Bachelor of Science in LAS with major in MCB
  • Bachelor of Science in LAS with major in Neuroscience

Master's Degree

  • Master of Science from one of the following departments: Biochemistry, Cell & Developmental Biology, Microbiology, Molecular & Integrative Physiology
  • Master of Science from one of the following programs: Biophysics & Quantitative Biology or Neuroscience
  • Master of Science from the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology

Doctor of Philosophy

  • Doctor of Philosophy from one of the following departments: Biochemistry, Cell & Developmental Biology, Microbiology, Molecular & Integrative Physiology
  • Doctor of Philosophy from one of the following programs: Biophysics & Quantitative Biology or Neuroscience
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Ceremony Photographs
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GradImages has been contracted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology to take photos of graduates during the ceremonies. Graduates can order photos by calling the GradImages' Customer Service Department at (800) 261-2576, visiting www.gradimages.com, or emailing ecc.giservice@gradimages.net.

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Dr. Guy Padbury

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2025 MCB Convocation Speaker

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Dr. Padbury has more than 35 years of scientific expertise and leadership in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. He is currently Senior Vice President of Clinical Pharmacology and Translational Sciences for Pfizer’s Oncology Division, where he leads global strategy and operations across pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, biomarkers, and companion diagnostics. Guy joined Pfizer through its 2023 acquisition of Seagen, where he was SVP of Translational Science. Prior to Seagen, he was Chief Development Officer at Scorpion Therapeutics and held senior executive roles including SVP of Preclinical Development at Merck Research Laboratories. Earlier, he led global functions in pharmacokinetics, bioanalytical sciences, and drug metabolism at both Pfizer (2006–08) and Amgen (2008–15). His career also spans influential scientific and managerial positions at Dow Chemical, Upjohn, Pharmacia & Upjohn, Pharmacia, and a previous tenure at Pfizer. Across his career, Guy has contributed to more than 50 successful global drug registrations—from small molecules to biotherapeutics—impacting most major therapeutic areas worldwide. In addition to his corporate leadership, Guy is deeply engaged in advancing science and innovation through board and advisory roles. He currently serves on the Board of Advisors for the University of Illinois, Illinois Ventures, LLC, and the Advisory Board for Illini Angels. He has also served on the NIH General Medical Sciences Advisory Council, the University of Washington School of Pharmacy Corporate Advisory Board, and the Board of Trustees for the Franklin Institute. Guy holds a PhD and MS in Biochemistry from the University of Illinois and a BS in Chemistry from Butler University.

University-Wide Ceremonies

Past MCB Convocations

2025 Convocation

Video of May 2025 convocation

2024

Congratulations to our 2024 graduates!

School of MCB May 2024 Convocation video

The ceremony photographer was GradImages. Graduates can order photos by calling the GradImages' Customer Service Department at 800-261-2576, visiting www.gradimages.com, or emailing ecc.giservice@gradimages.net.

2023

Congratulations to our 2023 graduates!

School of MCB May 2023 Convocation video

 

 

2022

May 2022 Convocation Video

2021

2020

Contact

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If you have any further questions regarding convocation, including accessibility concerns, please contact SMCB Convocation Coordinator at convocation@mcb.illinois.edu or call (217) 333-6774.