The Institute evolved from the Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Program (MBBP), which was established in 1987 by the University of the Philippines Board of Regents in response to the need for molecular biologists and biotechnologists in both the academe and industry. Today, NIMBB-UPD is the only unit in the country that administers three degree programs: the Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. The Institute houses several research programs in the fields of biomedical research, industrial biotechnology, and genome research.