The University of Medicine and Dentistry / Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine offers the opportunity to donate one's body for the advancement of medical education and research.   Those considering participation in the UMDNJ Body Donor Program are encouraged to read fully the program description below and to discuss your wishes with your loved ones.

Donating for Medical Education and Research
A gift of body donation to the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey can be arranged prior to death, or by a guardian or next-of-kin following death.

Making Your Wishes Known
The decision to donate begins with the completion and signing a Donor Consent Form.  This form is separate from donor registries or organ/tissue donor cards. It is strongly encouraged that you make your decision known to family, friends and caregivers and/or document your decision through an advanced directive, living will, or through the individual with power of attorney for your medical decisions.

UMDNJ's Role
UMDNJ takes full financial responsibility for all aspects of the Gift of Body process. Upon notification of death, UMDNJ arranges for transport to the University, completes and files the death certificate, and arranges for cremation following completion of our studies.

How Will My Body be Used?
Bodies donated to UMDNJ Body Donor Program are used primarily for medical and dental training and research. The time involved can vary from one month to two years, with typical completion of studies between 18 - 24 months. Bodies are cremated following completion of studies.

How Do I Enroll?
Contact the Body Donor Program at 973-972-4648.

Can My Cremated Remains be Returned to My Family?
You may designate someone to receive your cremated remains. The next-of-kin or executor may claim the cremated remains, or they can be sent by UMDNJ to a designated recipient.

Will My Family Receive a Report of Your Findings?
No record of findings is produced for bodies used for medical and dental education and research purposes.

What Should My Family Do About a Funeral Service?
It is not possible for your family to have a funeral service with your body present. Families often choose to hold a memorial service without the body present.

What Happens If I Enroll in the Program and I Am Not Accepted?
We seldom decline to accept the body of an enrolled donor. However, it is always wise to prepare an alternate plan, such as cremation or traditional burial.

Conditions That Preclude Acceptance of a Deceased Body:

Can I Sell My Body to Science?
No. The sale of bodies or body parts is prohibited by law.

Procedure To Follow at the Time of Death
At the time of death, the family or hospital / hospice / nursing personnel should immediately notify The UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School Donor Program at  973-972-4648.  

For Additional Information Contact:
Ms. Essie Feldman
Donor Program Coordinator
New Jersey Medical School / UMDNJ
185 South Orange Avenue (MSB-G609)
Newark, NJ 07101-1709

(T) 973-972-4646
(E-mail) feldmaem@umdnj.edu