Graduate Program
The Department of Biochemistry offers a Ph.D. through the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Students entering into the program generally have a B.S. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Genetics, or related physical or biological science. The program in biochemistry is designed to prepare individuals for careers in research and teaching. Emphasis is focused primarily on laboratory research, where students work closely with faculty.
Graduate students in the doctoral program are currently supported either through departmental teaching assistantships or faculty grants at a level of $18,000 per year. In addition to stipend support, the department will pay tuition and fees for all students as well as provide medical benefits to all students. Together with stipend, medical benefits and tuition and fees, the total level of support is greater than $24,000 per year.
During the first year in residence, students are advised by a
graduate advisory committee and participate in coursework,
teaching, and laboratory rotations.
The core courses include
Macromolecular Structure (BCH701), Macromolecular Synthesis and Regulation (BCH703), Molecular
Biology of the Cell (BCH705), and a two semester seminar course (BCH801). Following the core coursework,
students enroll in two advanced courses,
typically chosen by the student with the advisement of the thesis advisor, and this generally
occurs before the end of the second year. Advanced topics range from biophysical chemistry,
advanced molecular biology, nucleic acids structure and function, or a number of
topics offered through other departments on campus.
In addition, students gain teaching experience by participating as a teaching assistant for two semesters.
Students are
expected to attend weekly
departmental seminars
presented by eminent visiting scientists.
During the first year in residence, students participate in two to three laboratory rotations, each approximately eight weeks in duration, which allow the student to choose a thesis advisor through knowledge of the laboratory environment. Students select laboratories for rotations after discussions with faculty members. At the end of the first year in residence, the student selects a thesis advisor based on meetings with faculty, laboratory rotations, TA experience, and approval of the graduate advisory committee. Following the selection of a thesis advisor, a thesis committee is established, typically during the third semester in residence, which includes three members of the Biochemistry department faculty and one member from outside of the department. The thesis committee will meet with the student at least once per year.
Students are required to pass preliminary exams, generally toward the end of the second year in residence. The preliminary exams are based on an original research proposal written by the student.
After completion of the thesis research, and with the approval of the thesis committee, the student writes a thesis, presents a departmental seminar based on the research, and defends the thesis before the thesis committee. The defense generally occurs at the end of the fifth year in residence.
For more information, consult the graduate student guidelines.