Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Overview

There are three different tracks in which students may enter and progress towards award of the PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The first track involves admission through the Program in Biomedical Sciences (PIBS). Alternatively, students may apply and be directly admitted to the PhD program. Finally, the Executive PhD allows students to complete coursework and perform research at their place of work. In all cases, students are assisted in tailoring a program to match his or her interests. In general, students complete courses offered in a variety of formats, e.g., formal lectures, seminars, and workshops. Each BMB graduate program’s curriculum is designed to provide broad knowledge in the various aspects of molecular biology and biochemistry in addition to intensive training in certain specialized areas of research according to the student's interests.

Curriculum Requirements

Ph.D. - PIBS Plan

¹

Students in this program take Journal Club twice for a total of 2 credits.  Please see the Plan of Study for more information.  

²

Students in this program take BMB 701 Journal Club each semester.  Please see the Plan of Study for more information.  

³

Students in this program take BMB 702 Scientific Seminar through the end of their third semester.  Please see the Plan of Study for more information.  

Ph.D. - Direct Admit

Suggested Plans of Study

Ph.D. - PIBS Plan

Please note that the following is only a sample curriculum plan. Current students must discuss their plan with their program director to make adjustments as needed. It is the student's responsibility to contact the program to verify the information.

Ph.D. - Direct Admission Plan

Please note that the following is only a sample curriculum plan. Current students must discuss their plan with their program director to make adjustments as needed. It is the student's responsibility to contact the program to verify the information.

Mission

Our aim is to produce graduates who are thoroughly versed in the field of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and who have a flexibility of approach that will allow them to take full advantage of new developments and techniques in other areas of research in whatever direction their career might lead them.

Goals

To provide students with: 

• Training in discovery research and state-of-the art biomedical technologies by fostering unique and innovative research and collaborative interdisciplinary interactions among scientists of diverse backgrounds; 
• An understanding of fundamental concepts in BMB and training to formulate and conduct original research;
• An ability to communicate research within the broad field of BMB as well as the community
• Training to become independent investigators.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will demonstrate an overall knowledge and understanding of the core concepts in biochemistry and molecular biology, including the essential skills to conduct research in biochemistry and molecular biology.
• Students will demonstrate critical thinking skills, the capability to develop hypotheses, and the ability to evaluate their hypotheses, paying attention to responsible conduct of research as appropriate.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to write effective scientific reports and to present scientific results orally.