Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Ph.D. program allows you to explore advanced research in the molecular life sciences. Using the principles of biochemistry and molecular biology, you’ll work with your faculty advisor on major research projects and engage in scientific inquiry around topics like viral genetics, cell signaling and DNA replication. As a doctoral student, you’ll be introduced to laboratory research in the first year of your PhD program by participating in three research rotations before choosing the lab for your dissertation research.

This doctoral program prepares you for a career in independent research in academia, government or industry, as well as many other fulfilling careers, such as teaching, policy and consulting, scientific writing and editing.

Research Areas

The principles of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology mastered in the doctoral program allow you to perform research in a variety of programs where the techniques of modern molecular and biochemical principles and “omics” are used to study mechanisms ranging from gene expression to protein structure-function relationships to energy production and oxidative stress. Formal academic topics include:

• Protein structure and function
• Enzyme reaction mechanisms
• Regulation of gene expression
• Mechanism of hormone action and cell signaling
• Metabolic pathways defining cellular states
• Enzymology and mechanisms of DNA replication and repair
• Cell cycle regulation
• Control of cell growth
• Molecular biology of the cancer process
• Molecular neurobiology
• Genetics and biochemistry of bacterial and viral pathogens

Biochemistry Careers with a Ph.D.

Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, agriculture and food corporations, as well as government agencies all need biochemists and molecular biologists to conduct research and drive new discoveries. A Ph.D. allows you to pursue senior and leadership positions in all of these settings and lead major research projects that will bring innovation to the discipline. With a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, you’ll also be able to train for independent research and teaching roles in academia.

Program Curriculum

Whether you’re entering through the Integrated Ph.D. program or after completing a GSBMS MS degree (advanced standing), the course requirements are the same. In addition to the core didactic coursework, the main focus of the Ph.D. program is research. You’ll have the opportunity to enroll in up to three lab rotations early in the program, which allows you to discover where your research interests lie.

Early coursework provides a foundation in structural biochemistry, molecular biology and metabolism. You'll learn about the structure of amino acids, how quantitative biochemistry works and the function of DNA, RNA and proteins.

Specific courses thoroughly cover topics like metabolic biochemistry and cell signaling. With experience in the lab and an understanding of current research techniques, particularly around recombinant DNA technology, you'll be prepared to conduct advanced research in your final years in the program. Visit the Biochemistry Curriculum page for detailed descriptions of our courses and lab rotations.

Earning your Ph.D. is a multi-step process that includes a qualifying examination and meetings with your dissertation committee. For a detailed overview of Ph.D. requirements over the length of the program, visit our Ph.D. Program Requirements page.

Admission into the Biochemistry Ph.D. Program

The admissions committee for our Ph.D. program views each application holistically. A master’s degree or GRE is not required to enter the program. Although we consider students from a variety of academic backgrounds, we recommend that Ph.D. applicants have a foundation in the sciences and some prior wet lab research experience. An interview will be conducted before admission into the program. Learn more about Ph.D. admissions requirements.

Biochemistry Department Faculty

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology consists of 15 faculty members, with several research staff, postdocs and graduate students—and is expanding. Our stellar faculty specialize in exciting areas of research like cancer treatment and prevention, neurogenerative disease and the formation of toxins that lead to Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, as well as understanding the molecular mechanism of stress-related disorders. Graduate faculty mentors provide guidance for your original laboratory research, and our 2:1 student-faculty ratio allows for plenty of individual attention in the classroom. Learn more about our knowledgeable and experienced. Learn more about our knowledgeable and experienced biomedical sciences faculty.