EducationHome

 
 

Scope and Objectives

 

The Biological Chemistry graduate program prepares students for careers as independent research scientists and scholars. Laboratory research is the central element. Biological chemistry has grown to include studies of cellular, molecular, and developmental biology, molecular genetics and genetic engineering, and many aspects of the health sciences. The research activities of the department include these areas as well as the "classic" topics of metabolism, enzymology, and biomolecular structure. Courses and seminar programs are designed to provide students with the necessary background and approach to encourage their continuing growth in these rapidly changing areas of science.

Interaction with other graduate programs provides access to scientists in a variety of related disciplines. Through its primary affiliation with the School of Medicine, the department is also involved in the basic education of students who will be physicians, dentists, and other health professionals. Many of these students become involved in laboratory research in the department. In part because of this breadth of experience students find careers in many aspects of basic and applied scientific research and education. The department emphasizes study for the Ph.D., but candidates for the M.S. degree may be accepted under special circumstances.

Help