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department of Biochemistry

Graduate Program

 

PhD Program in Biochemistry

 

The Department of Biochemistry offers a program of study leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree. The graduate program is designed to provide training in biochemistry and molecular biology relevant to careers in academia or industry. The program is aimed at broad training of students across a range of topics in biochemistry and molecular biology, with in-depth training in one area of specialization. Students acquire skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific writing through a combination of coursework and mentored experimental research culminating in a written dissertation of original research. The target time for completion of the PhD program is 5 years.

 

 

MS Program in Biochemistry

 

The program of study leading to the Master of Science degree in Biochemistry involves coursework similar to that required for the PhD degree. Students are required to perform a mentored research project culminating in a brief written thesis. The target time for completion of the MS program is 2 years.

 

The typical series of courses, which are completed by the end of Year 2 in the Biochemistry graduate program, might look as follows:

 

Year 1:

Fall semester:
Fundamentals of Biochemistry - 4 credits
Introduction to Biostatistics - 2 credits
Scientific Communication - 1 credit
Scientific Integrity and Bioethics - 1 credit
Laboratory Rotation - 1 credit

 

Spring semester:
Structure and Function of Macromolecules - 4 credits
Molecular Biology of Signal Transduction - 3 credits
Student Seminar - 1 credit
Laboratory Rotation - 1 credit

Summer:
Laboratory Research

Year 2:


Fall semester:
Fundamentals of Molecular and Cellular Biology - 4 credits
Special Topics in Biophysical Chemistry - 2 credits
Laboratory Research - 3 credits

 

Spring semester:
Proteins and Enzymes - 4 credits
Signaling, Stress and Development - 3 credits
Laboratory Research - 1 credit
First Research Seminar - 1 credit

 

Summer:
Laboratory Research
Outside Research Proposal (for advancement to PhD candidacy)