doing phd in biochemistry

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Offered By: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Onsite | Full-Time | 5 – 6 years

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About the PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program

In the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology PhD program, faculty, and students work together to increase knowledge of the biochemical and molecular bases of normal and abnormal cellular processes. Our program trains students to be successful independent scientists and gives them the knowledge, research training, and leadership skills to continue to provide new insights into the biomedical issues that have a profound impact on public health.

Students engage in a rigorous course curriculum and a range of structured and informal activities outside the classroom and lab to build their skills. They will pursue their thesis research in the lab of one of our over forty training faculty across the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Visit our dedicated PhD program website to learn more about the diverse research training opportunities of the program.

PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program Highlights

Our position within the School of Public Health provides a unique setting in which students learn how biochemistry, molecular biology, physical chemistry, cell biology, and genetics can be used to solve significant problems in public health and medicine. Our program offers:

• Training faculty from across the School of Public Health and the School of Medicine
• A strong grounding in the science of biomedical and public health research through a core curriculum that includes courses taught by leading experts from the Schools of Public Health and Medicine
• Training outside the lab and classroom in key skills such as communications and leadership
• Opportunities to build strong communications skills through a range of speaking venues including journal club, research colloquium, department retreats, and national meetings
• Access to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Professional Development and Career Office , offering excellent career services and professional development,  including the BMB-required OPTIONS program, a guided process of career exploration for paths from medicine to biotech to academia and beyond for careers paths from medicine to biotech to academia and beyond
• Opportunities to participate in community service and outreach, with a focus on our East Baltimore neighborhoods, through the Johns Hopkins University community engagement and service-learning center, SOURCE

Training faculty across the School of Public Health and the School of Medicine

Schools that students can take courses in: Public Health, Arts & Sciences, Medicine, and Engineering

Two-month rotations in the first year prior to selecting thesis lab

Average number of incoming students in the BMB PhD degree program each year

What Can You Do With a PhD In Biochemistry And Molecular Biology?

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology PhD program prepares students for a range of biomedical and health sciences careers, including in academia, industry, policy, and beyond.

Sample Careers

• Research Scientist
• Science Policy Adviser
• Biotech Executive
• Senior Scientist
• Patent Lawyer
• Science Policy Analyst/Advocate
• Science Writer/Journalist
• Biological Sciences Teacher

Topic Areas

The BMB PhD program faculty conduct research to gain new insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying normal and abnormal cellular processes, and their relevance as targets for improving health and treating disease. Our training program places particular emphasis on mechanistic approaches to research problems.

Common topic areas within our faculty's diverse research interests include:

• Biophysics and Structural Biology
• Cancer Biology
• Chemical Biology and Proteomics
• Cell Biology
• Cellular Stress and Cell Signaling
• Genetics, Genomics, and Gene Regulation
• Immunology and Infectious Diseases
• Translational Research

Curriculum for the PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The BMB PhD offers students a rigorous course curriculum, including a set of common core classes from the Schools of Public Health and Medicine. A rich array of seminar programs and journal clubs are also available to all students.

Browse an overview of the requirements for this PhD program in the JHU  Academic Catalogue  and explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School  Course Directory .

Courses in core curriculum

Minimum elective credits

Seminars on current research presented by experts from across Johns Hopkins and other biomedical research institutions

Courses available across Johns Hopkins Schools of Public Health, Medicine, and Arts and Sciences

Admissions Requirements

For the general admissions requirements see our How to Apply page. The specific program also requires:

Prior Work Experience

Laboratory research experience (from academia, industry, etc.) is required

Prior Coursework

Strong background in the sciences, particularly in chemistry, biochemistry, or biology

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores (GRE) are optional for this program. The admissions committee will make no assumptions if a standardized test score is omitted from an application, but will require evidence of quantitative/analytical ability through other application components such as academic transcripts and/or supplemental questions.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all application components.

Program Faculty Spotlight

Ashani T. Weeraratna

Ashi Weeraratna, PhD, studies how cancer cells move to distant sites and how changes in the normal cells around a tumor contribute to their movement, especially as we age.

Michael J. Matunis

Michael Matunis, PhD, studies how protein modification by SUMO—the small ubiquitin-related modifier—drives changes in key cellular pathways from stress response to DNA repair.

Jennifer M. Kavran

Jennifer Kavran, PhD, MS, MPhil, is a biophysicist who investigates how cells communicate with each other and their environment.

Danfeng Cai

Danfeng Cai, PhD, combines advanced microscopy, genomics, and proteomics to tease out the functions of protein condensates in cells, with a focus on cancer.

Vivien Thomas PhD Scholars

The  Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI)  is an endowed fellowship program at Johns Hopkins for PhD students in STEM fields. It provides full tuition, stipend, and benefits while also providing targeted mentoring, networking, community, and professional development opportunities. Students who have attended a historically Black college and university (HBCU) or other minority serving institution (MSI) for undergraduate study are eligible to apply. To be considered for the VTSI, you will need to submit a SOPHAS application, VTSI supplementary materials, and all supporting documents (letters, transcripts, and test scores) by December 1 , 202 3 . VTSI applicants are eligible for an application fee waiver , but the fee waiver must be requested by November 15, 202 3 and prior to submission of the SOPHAS application.

All full-time PhD students receive the following support for all years of the program: full tuition and fees, individual health insurance, University Health Services fee, vision insurance, dental insurance, and a stipend for living expenses for students who remain in good academic standing. PhD students are required to serve as a teaching assistant for at least one term, in either their 2nd or 3rd year.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who  are admitted to PhD programs at JHU starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a $1500 need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU.   These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need.  View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help.

Mike Matunis, PhD PhD Program Director

Roza Selimyan , PhD BMB Executive Director for Academic Affairs and Education Programs

Erika Vaitekunas Administrative Specialist

[email protected]

Compare Programs

• Check out similar programs at the Bloomberg School to find the best fit.
• Master of Science (ScM), Offered by BMB
• Master of Health Science (MHS), Offered by BMB
• Master of Health Science (MHS), Offered by MMI
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Offered by MMI
• Master of Health Science (MHS) in Environmental Health
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Health

• Doing a PhD in Biochemistry

A PhD in biochemistry aims to train students in the fundamentals of biochemical research and equip them with skills that will help them analyse data and develop new research ideas.

The basics of a PhD in Biochemistry

Biochemistry involves the study of the chemical processes and structures that occur in living organisms, from bacteria to humans. Biochemical methods are often used in medical research to better understand the causes of diseases such as cancer, AIDS and heart disease, and in related areas such as pharmacology, drug discovery and toxicology, research into the effects of toxins.

A doctorate in biochemistry is an advanced qualification designed to train students in their chosen subject. It involves carrying out original research on a specific topic under the supervision of an academic supervisor.

Daily activities of a Biochemistry doctorate student

As a PhD student in biochemistry, your typical daily activities will vary depending on the stage of the program you are in, but can include attending laboratory seminars, meeting with supervisors to discuss the progress of your research project or thesis, designing and conducting experiments in the laboratory, analysing biochemical data using specialist software packages, and creating scientific journals.

Lines of Research

Biochemistry is one of the most diverse scientific disciplines, but there are many areas in which you can specialise to develop more specific knowledge. Possible research topics include:

• Biochemistry of single-celled organisms
• Biochemistry of prokaryotes
• Biochemistry of eukaryotes
• Bioinformatics and computer biology
• Molecular structural biology
• Bioactive molecules
• Genomics and systems biology
• Systems medicine and human health
• Synthetic biology, synthetic therapeutics, clinically relevant therapeutic design
• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Due to the broad range of topics within the discipline, your research project may see you performing research on the structure of proteins, investigating cell metabolism, bioenergetics, cellular stress and biochemical factors within the nervous system. You may perform research in functional genomics, viral biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, or better understanding the immune processes.

Browse PhDs in Biochemistry

In-situ disposal of cementitious wastes at uk nuclear sites, capturing vibration to drive chemical change, development of fluorescent organic molecules for application in super-resolution imaging techniques, atomic layer deposition of novel nanolayer materials for solar cells, coventry university postgraduate research studentships, research proposal.

Besides pre-defined projects, your doctoral supervisor may recommend that you propose your own specific topic that comes closest to your personal interests, or they may simply suggest a broad topic as a starting point, such as Alzheimer’s, bioinformatics, proteins or human diseases. In both cases, you will need to produce a research proposal to explain your proposed research objectives and ensure that it is scientifically sound.

How long does it take to get a PhD in Biochemistry?

In the UK, a full-time doctoral student will usually take 3 years to complete their PhD in Biochemistry. Part-time PhD students should expect to take closer to 6 years to complete their research project.

Most Biochemistry PhD students will first register as MPhil students, typically completing an upgrade viva after 18 months, before officially becoming registered as a PhD student. Whilst your supervisor will provide mentorship, it’s ultimately the responsibility of postgraduate students to ensure their project and studies run on time and that they meet the deadlines expected of them.

What are the typical entry requirements for a Biochemistry PhD Programme?

In terms of applications, most UK universities require at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree or the equivalent grade from a university outside of the UK. Further, your degree will need to be in a field relevant to Biochemistry.

If English is not your first language, you will have to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as part of your application. Usually, this is a minimum IELTS test score of 6.5 for research programmes however this may be higher from one university to another, and from one programme of study to another.

How much does a Biochemistry PhD cost?

UK based postgraduate research students will pay annual tuition fees of around £4,500/year. Part-time students should expect to pay lower fees, with some variability between institutions about how this is calculated.

For international students (including now EU students), the annual tuition fee is approximately £23,500/year, equating to £70,500 over 3 years.

As with every PhD degree, potential students will need to consider additional costs such as living costs and any bench fees that may be expected by their particular project or graduate school. It’s a good idea to discuss these, along with any potential scholarships or funding opportunities, with your potential supervisors before starting your postgraduate degree.

Career options for Biochemistry PhD graduates

Upon completing a PhD in biochemistry, you may be wondering what comes next? Well, there is a wide range of choices because a doctorate in biochemistry allows you to work in many fields, including pharmaceutical and agricultural research, academia as a university lecturer, industry as a senior scientist, researcher or manager, as well as in research or at government institutes.

A PhD in biochemistry can open the door to many career opportunities in the academic world, such as lecturing and researching at universities. An academic career need not be limited to teaching – if you want to continue your research in a university environment, a PostDoctoral Research Fellowship (PDF) is ideal. It allows you to work on a research project in your field of interest, secure a salary and build on your research skills and experience.

This is perhaps the most popular area for PhD biochemists. The industry is constantly looking for people who can contribute their knowledge of biochemistry in combination with laboratory science. Companies looking for biochemists include pharmaceutical companies, agricultural research organisations, animal testing laboratories and analytical laboratories.

Government and research institutes

Government and health institutes, such as the Food Standards Agency (FSA) or the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC), often require people with a PhD in biochemistry. As a biochemist in a government agency, you can test food samples for contamination or monitor and test new vaccines and drugs. Alternatively, you could be the perfect candidate for working in a forensic laboratory because of your ability to analyse chemical reactions.

Research charities

Charities are one of the primary employers of PhD biochemists. They provide much-needed information about biological research, which is not always available. Charities such as Cancer Research UK (CRUK), Diabetes UK and Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK) attach great importance to a PhD and consider it an invaluable asset to their research teams.

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Biochemistry, PhD

The PhD program in biochemistry through the School of Molecular Sciences provides students with the training they need to solve biological problems at the molecular scale and to be successful, independent scientists who can contribute to current challenging societal issues. Students earning a doctoral degree in biochemistry are fully trained in all fundamental aspects of the discipline. Most also choose to join transdisciplinary teams that work on larger, mission-based contemporary problems in areas such as biogeochemistry, energy and sustainability, fundamental chemical biology, materials and nanoscience, medicine and health, and structure function and dynamics.

students funded

Annual research funding, research groups, admission information, how to apply.

Applications open September 1 for admission in Fall of the following year. The application deadline is January 1. Applications received prior to the deadline will receive priority consideration, but applications received after the deadline may still receive consideration, pending available space. Applicants will receive final notice of decision by March 15.

All applicants must apply through the Graduate Admissions office. All application materials must be submitted through the application or to Graduate Admissions  directly . Please do not mail any documents to the School of Molecular Sciences. 

The School of Molecular Sciences utilizes a two-part application process and both parts are required. The first part is the General Application through the ASU Graduate Admissions office. The second part is a supplemental application to the School of Molecular Sciences through SlideRoom. 

Step 1:General Application

The first step is to submit the General Application through Graduate Admission Services.

Step 2: Supplemental Application

The supplemental application can be completed immediately following submission of the General Application. You will need your Application Reference number in order to submit, but can begin the application without it. The Supplemental Application will close on the application deadline and no new applications will be allowed. Applications started by the deadline will be granted a 7-day grace period to complete the application.

Access the Supplemental Application

***GRE NOT required ***

Requirements

Minimum Requirements required for admission:

• GPA of at least 3.0
• Applicants from Indian institutions (3-yr BSc) must have completed a Master's degree.
• International Applicants must satisfy university minimum requirements for  English Proficiency  (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE)

While all applications meeting the minimum requirements will be reviewed, competitive candidates generally meet the following benchmarks:

• Research experience and a letter of recommendation from a faculty research supervisor
• A TOEFL score of 100 with a speaking section score of 23 or better (IELTS 7/7, equivalencies for other tests will be determined as needed). Additional English requirements are required by ASU for employment as a TA for speaking section less than 26.

Application

All applicants are required to pay the application fee ($70 – domestic / $115 – international). The application fee will be refunded to all students who are accepted into and agree to join our program.

You will need the following information to complete the general application:

• Beginning/ending dates and location(s) of your academic degree(s);
• Grade point average (GPA) - Information on calculating overall, junior-senior undergraduate and graduate GPA can found on the  Graduate Admission website .
• TOEFL scores (unofficial scores can be used in your initial application)
• Arizona Residency information if you are a resident in the state of Arizona (general tax and employment history)
• Submitting unofficial transcripts could expedite admission and not require submission of official transcripts in order to receive a formal offer

You will need the following information to complete the supplemental application:

• Areas of research and faculty member interest
• A brief Personal Statement that includes a narrative concerning your motivations for graduate study in chemistry or biochemistry, your long-term career goals, further information on research experience, potential ASU faculty interests and a list of all honors, awards and scholarships. It is particularly important to describe your research experience and list any publications.
• Contact information (email address) for three (3) faculty members who will write letters of recommendation for you, and can comment on your suitability for advanced scholarly work. One of these must be your current research supervisor. If you are employed full-time, only one of these letters can be from your employer. Faculty member letters are much more important than letters from employers.
• Electronic copies of your unofficial transcripts. (individual PDF file for each transcript)

Acceptance decisions may be extended on the basis of the unofficial information submitted as part of the application, although an official offer cannot be extended until the all official transcripts and test scores have been received and added to the official graduate admissions application.

Domestic students who apply by the deadline and are extended an offer of admission will be invited to visit campus during our Visitation Weekend in mid-February.

International

The School of Molecular Sciences values a diverse student population and welcomes applications from international students. The University sets  English proficiency requirements  for admission for international students whose native language is not English, or for whom the official language of the country of origin is not English. The University will also require international students employed as a teaching assistants to demonstrate additional proficiency in spoken English. The School of Molecular Sciences prefers applicants who demonstrate English proficiency beyond the University required minimums as follows:

• A TOEFL score of 100 with a speaking section score of 23 or better (additional English requirements are required for employment as a TA)
• An IELTS overall band score of 7.0 with speaking score of 7.0 or better
• Equivalencies for other exams will be determined as needed.  

The test of English proficiency must have been taken within two years of starting the program (i.e. for fall 2022 admission, the test must have been taken after August 1, 2020.) You will need to retake the test if your results are more than two years old. Official scores should be sent by the Education Testing Service (ETS) as soon as possible. When ordering a score report from ETS, use institution code 4007 (a department code is not needed). Applications will not be considered without valid evidence of English proficiency.

Applicants who satisfy one of the following criteria through attendance at a regionally accredited college or university in the US are exempt from the English proficiency admission requirements:

• Applicants who are U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents.
• Applicants who have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S.
• Applicants who have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher from an international institution that is officially recognized by that country, and the country is on the ASU English Speaking Country and Territory List.
• Applicants who have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher from an international institution that is officially recognized by that country, and the country is on the  ASU English Speaking Country and Territory List .
• Applicants who have completed at least nine semester hours of graduate coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher at a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S or from an international institution that is officially recognized in that country and is on the  ASU English Speaking Country and Territory List .
• Applicants who have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher from an international institution that is officially recognized by that country, and the sole medium of instruction for the program was in English. Student should email  [email protected]  to request exemption and include a letter from the institution on letterhead indicating language of instruction or provide information on the institution website to verify language of instruction.
• Applicants who have completed at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) or higher at a regionally accredited college or university in the U.S.
• Four years of high school in the U.S. with four years of English.

NOTE: Exemption can only be obtained by providing proof through submission of official documentation, i.e. official graduate transcript. The requirement will remain on your account until the verification has been completed by the Graduate Admissions office.

All international academic records must be submitted in the original language accompanied by an official English translation. Translations must be literal and complete versions of original records, and the documents must be translated by a university, a government official, or an official translation service. Students who are applying from Indian institutions must send both their Certificate and Mark Sheets.

The university sets an additional requirement for spoken English proficiency for students to be hired as Teaching Assistants. Students who do not meet the threshold for spoken English proficiency (iBT speaking score of 24/IELTS speaking band score of 7.5) are brought in early and provided assistance to prepare for and take the test of spoken English that is administered by the university.

For additional information, please visit the Graduate Admission Services page dedicated to  International Students .

All students accepted in the PhD Chemistry/Biochemistry programs are guaranteed financial support by means of a Graduate Assistant (Teaching/Research Assistant) position for five years. Students are typically appointed as Teaching Assistants for at least the first year. Research assistantships come from faculty grants and are awarded based on the availability of funds. There are some departmental, college, or university fellowships that are awarded on a competitive basis. Highly qualified applicants are encouraged to apply for a graduate fellowship from the  National Science Foundation  (NSF-GRFP),  National Institutes of Health  (NIH-F31) as well as other national fellowship programs, i.e. DOE, EPA, NASA, etc.

The standard stipend for all students on TA/RA is $12,293 per semester for fall and spring ($24,586) and full summer funding is $8,195 for TA or RA. Total annual stipend is $32,781.

Tuition and Health Insurance benefits are provided for all students with Graduate Teaching/Research Assistantship positions with at least a full-time (.50 FTE) appointment (20 hours per week). Tuition - Tuition waivers cover the full cost of tuition for resident and non-resident students with a TA/RA appointment. Information on the cost of tuition and the value of this benefit can be found in the  Academic Catalog . Health Benefits - The university covers the cost of individual health insurance premiums for all TAs and RAs with full-time appointments (.50 FTE). More information on this plan can be found at  ASU Health Services  website (Billing and Insurance > Health Coverage Options).

Additional information about the specific policies of the RA/TA position at ASU can be found in the Graduate College  TA/RA Handbook .

Students seeking to transfer from another graduate program are accepted only under exceptional circumstances. If you are currently, or have been in another graduate program in chemistry or biochemistry in the United States, you must supply three letters of recommendation from your current institution (i.e. the one that you are transferring from, or the one you previously attended). Do not have letters sent from earlier (undergraduate) institutions. Specifically, we will need a letter from your current research advisor (or prior graduate research advisor) stating explicitly why you want to transfer to ASU. Without a letter from your research advisor, we will NOT be able to review your application.

Application Fee Waiver Request

The School of Molecular Sciences has earmarked a small amount of money to provide application fee waivers to assist students with a demonstrated financial need. To apply for fee waiver, please complete the application below:

SMS Application Fee Waiver Request Form - Fall 2024

SMS Application Fee Waiver Request form

You will be asked to provide the following information:

• To obtain the Application Number, you will need to start the Graduate Application and complete it up to the payment page. Do not submit payment information. Save and exit the application. You will receive your Application Number via email within about 24 hours. (If you submit payment, it cannot be undone and you will not be reimbursed, except as noted below as part of the standard admission/reimbursement process.)
• Brief essay (about 150 words) detailing your financial hardship
• Brief essay (similar to your personal statement for graduate school) describing why you are interested in earning a PhD in chemistry or biochemistry at ASU
• Names of three faculty members you would be interested in having as a possible research advisor and why you are interested in them
• Copies of unofficial transcripts, combined into one PDF document. (file name: Last name, First name – transcripts )
• Copy of TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo score report (International applicants only). (f ile name: Last Name, First Name: English Proficiency )
• Additional supporting documents (combined into one pdf). ( file name: Last Name, First Name: supporting documentation )

Fee waiver requests will be considered until all funds have been exhausted, but must be submitted by December 1. Requests will be evaluated upon receipt in the order received and students will be informed of the decision within about two weeks. Receipt of an application fee waiver does not guarantee admission to a PhD program. If you do not receive a fee waiver, but are admitted to the chemistry or biochemistry PhD program and join the program, the application fee will be reimbursed at the beginning of the first semester.

This fee waiver request is only available to applicants of the Chemistry or Biochemistry PhD programs. Applicants for MS degrees are not eligible.

Is the GRE required?

No, the GRE is not required. The committee will not factor in GRE scores sent to ASU.

Do I have to pay the application fee?

Yes. The application fee is paid with the general graduate application. The fee is $70 for domestic students and $115 for international students. The application fee will be refunded to all students who are admitted and choose to join our program. This fee is set by the University and is out of our control.

If I send my application information in an email, can I receive a pre-evaluation to see if I am eligible to apply?

We receive many inquiries and applications; therefore, we are not able to preview your scores to determine your eligibility to apply or make suggestions on your credentials.

I missed the deadline for application. Can I still apply?

Applications received after the Jan. 1 deadline may be reviewed and considered for admission if space permits; however, the applicant may not be eligible for special scholarships or fellowships and domestic students may miss an opportunity to attend our Visitation Weekend. International students must consider important dates for the issuance of immigration documents. Applications are only accepted for the fall semester. We do not admit students to begin study in the spring semester.

Do all supporting documents need to be submitted by the deadline date?

Supporting documents may be submitted after the deadline; however, preference is given to applicants whose files are complete by the application due date. Submission of documents after the deadline may exclude your application from eligibility for special scholarships or fellowships and domestic students may miss an opportunity to attend our Visitation Weekend.

Is a master's degree required for applying to the PhD program?

Students applying to the PhD programs must have completed a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related discipline by the semester in which they want to begin their graduate program. A Master’s degree is not required, with one exception. Due to differences in the educational system in India, applicants who have received their degree from an institution in India must have also completed a Master's degree. (4-year degrees, usually Biotechnology degrees, from India are considered equivalent to a 4-year BS degree and do not require an accompanying Master’s degree.)

Why can't I access the departmental supplemental application page?

You will need an ASURITE ID from Graduate Admission Services before you can access this page. Graduate Admission Services will not send your ASURITE ID until you have completed and submitted the general application, i.e. you must click the "submit" button at the end of their application. Please also make sure that the email containing your ASURITE ID has not been caught in your SPAM filter.

If you have received your ASURITE ID and you still cannot access the application, please wait 1-2 days to allow for our supplemental application database to sync with the Graduate Admission Services database (due to the schedule, this can take up to 48 hours). If after 48 hours you still cannot access the application, please check your MyASU to confirm that you have an application on file. If when accessing the application you encounter a page requesting that you log out, please follow the log out instructions, close your internet browser, and then try the link again. You may also need to log out of MyASU directly, since many browsers allow for MyASU to remain logged in, which can cause an authentication time-out error for the supplemental application. After logging out of MyASU, close your browser and then attempt to access the supplemental application again.

How many students will you admit this year?

Our recent incoming classes have ranged from 30-40 students, selected from ca. 450 applicants. The class size for any given year will be determined by faculty demand for new students.

Do I need to send official transcripts to both graduate college and the department?

Applicants are asked to submit an electronic copy of their unofficial transcripts as part of the Supplemental Application to the School of Molecular Sciences. SMS will use the unofficial transcripts for their review. Official transcripts must be sent to Graduate Admission Services for evaluation for you to be eligible for admission. Please do not mail your official transcript or any documents to the School of Molecular Sciences.

I am an international student, when should I submit the financial guarantee form?

The Financial Guarantee form should be submitted only if you are accepted to a graduate program. Graduate Admission Services will send information on completing this form with their official admissions notification. Information on how to complete this form will also be included with the official offer letter.

When will a decision be made on my application?

The School of Molecular Sciences Admissions Committee will begin their review of applications close to the deadline. The number of applications received in the past few years has averaged over 450 per year; therefore, it may take up to 6 weeks before notices are sent. The Admissions Committee appreciates your patience while they carefully review each applicant's qualification for our graduate programs. Every effort will be made to provide final decisions by March 15.

Information on the Graduate Admission Services application can be found on their website or you can contact them by email or by calling 480-965-6113. Additional information can be found on their Contact page.

How can I check the status of my application?

Your application status can be checked in two places:

For your general application, please check your MyASU portal, specifically your Priority Tasks panel for any required items that need to be submitted. If your application status is “In Review” your official application is complete and nothing further is required for the official application.

For the Supplemental Application, please log in and click the "Check Documents Status" bar at the top of the application. All information that has been submitted is live and can be seen by the committee, there is no final submit button.

Where do I send official documents?

If sending by U.S. Mail, use this address:

Admission Services Applicant Processing Arizona State University PO Box 871004 Tempe AZ 85287-1004

If sending by FedEx, DHL or UPS, use this address:

Arizona State University Admission Services Applicant Processing 1150 East University Drive Building C, Room 226 Tempe, AZ 85281

Do not mail any documents, including official transcripts or copies of test scores to the School of Molecular Sciences.

Is there a special form to complete for financial support via a graduate assistantship?

There is no additional paperwork to complete for a Graduate Assistantship.

What kind of financial support is available through the department?

All students accepted into the PhD Chemistry/Biochemistry programs are offered financial support by means of a Graduate Assistant position.

Students are welcome and encouraged to apply for fellowships available through the Graduate College or federal agencies (i.e. NSF, NIH, DOE, etc.) to supplement or substitute for the standard funding, which can often allow for additional focus on research and a reduction in the time required to complete the degree.

Which professors are actively recruiting students? Should I contact individual professors about their research group?

Professors' group requirements change constantly and we are not able to provide a list of actively recruiting faculty. However, all students, whichever professor they eventually work for, must first apply to and be accepted into the program. Individual professors do not make decisions regarding admissions and should not be contacted with admission inquiries. Professors will often discuss research projects by email with enthusiastic applicants.

Where can I find the form for recommendation letters?

There is no form for recommendation letters; they are submitted electronically. Within the Supplemental Application you will provide email addresses for your recommendation writers and an email will be sent to each recommender with instructions on how to submit a letter in support of your application. We can only accept letters of recommendation that are submitted electronically using our system.

Where can I find information about the graduate admission services application and how do I contact them if I have a question?

Learn more about Degree Requirements and Courses and electives

Ph.D. in Biochemistry

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 31
• Students: 55
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part time study available: No
• Application Terms: Fall

Application Deadline: November 30

Meta Kuehn Director of Graduate Studies Department of Biochemistry Box 3711 Duke University Medical Center Durham, NC 27710

Phone: (919) 681-8770

Email: [email protected]

Website:  http://www.biochem.duke.edu

Program Description

Graduate students in the Duke Biochemistry Department engage in faculty-mentored research and graduate coursework that develops an understanding of fundamental concepts in biochemistry, physical biochemistry, as well as the critical analysis of published research. Students choose thesis topics from a wide range of research projects under current study by primary and secondary faculty in the department, which include: enzyme mechanisms, signal transduction, cell cycle control, cytoskeleton structure, prokaryotic and eukaryotic transcription, genetic diseases, glycoproteins, DNA partitioning/segregation, plasma membrane receptors, cellular differentiation, gene regulation, mechanisms of DNA repair and DNA repair defects in tumor biology, processing of DNA, RNA modification, mRNA decay and translational control, multidrug resistance and tolerance, membrane vesicle biogenesis, microbial toxin activity, endocytosis, insertion of proteins into membranes, ion channel structure and function, metalloproteins, post translational modification, drug design, analysis and design of protein and RNA structure, and X-ray crystallography and NMR studies on macromolecular structure and folding. The department is located in a large, research-oriented medical center, which is immediately adjacent to the arts and sciences campus, fostering a productive and collaborative scientific community.

• Biochemistry: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Biochemistry: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Biochemistry: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Biochemistry: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE General: Optional
• GRE Subject tests (Biology, Chemistry): Optional This program does not require applicants to provide GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or other graduate entrance exam scores, but does allow you to upload scores if you feel they enhance your application. If you choose to submit test scores, you may enter them on the Test Scores page. If you choose to enter self-reported test scores, official test scores will become a required component of your application.
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Department-Specific Application Requirements (submitted through online application)

Statement of Purpose Guidelines The mission of the Duke University Biochemistry Graduate program is to educate and mentor students from diverse background in the fundamentals of biochemical principles and practice though courses and research by (1) guiding students in their thesis research project, and (2) preparing them for a career in research, education, or other disciplines. The program promotes a commitment to excellence in research scholarship and fosters a spirit of creativity, service, and respect, within an environment that is ethical, inclusive, and diverse.

Writing Sample None required

Additional Components Optional Video Essay: How would a Duke PhD training experience help you achieve your academic and professional goals? Max video length 2 minutes; record externally and provide URL in application.

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

The application deadline for Fall 2023 is November 30, 2023.  Please apply here . Please sign up to receive information about our biochemistry program and follow us on Twitter . 

  Study Among the Best

With 2 Nobel Laureates, research recognized by membership in the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and 6 faculty in the National Academy of Sciences, Duke’s  Department of Biochemistry  is one of the pre-eminent programs in the country. We offer a wide range of research options and close collaboration with our  faculty —training you to become a skilled scientist who’s ready for academia, industry, or government.

Biochemistry PhD graduate students learn the fundamental concepts in biochemistry and physical biochemistry and the critical analysis of published research through:

• Faculty mentored research
• Graduate coursework
• An environment that leverages knowledge from in and outside the university

You will work with primary and/or multi-disciplinary  faculty  to choose a thesis topic from a wide range of current research projects including:

• Analysis and design of protein and RNA structure
• Biogenesis of membrane proteins
• Cytoskeleton structure
• Drug design
• Enzyme mechanisms
• Glycoproteins
• Ion channel structure and function
• Membrane receptors and signal transduction
• Membrane vesicle production and function
• Mechanisms of DNA repair and DNA repair defects in tumor biology
• Mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis, drug resistance, and tolerance
• Metalloproteins
• Prokaryotic and eukaryotic transcription and gene regulation
• RNA modification
• X-ray crystallography and NMR studies on macromolecular structure and folding

Broaden Your Horizon. Focus Your Career Plan

We provide  resources  that start you on your career trajectory with leadership instruction, professional development, and teacher training workshops. In a testament to our career development, our graduates have taken positions in academia, industry, and government agencies.  See where they're working .

Our Location Fosters Collaboration

The  Department of Biochemistry  is an integral part of the world-renowned  Duke Medical Center  and sits adjacent to the Arts and Sciences Campus—placing our faculty and students in the center of a highly productive and collaborative scientific community

"Duke  is very committed to taking care of its students—there is always someone who is ready to help and support you. The biochemistry department especially feels like home! "  —Grace Hooks, 2019 Matriculant

We’re Here to Help   

You’ll have access to multiple  resources  that will help you transition to your PhD in Biochemistry and make your graduate experience just a little bit easier.

The Duke Graduate School The Graduate School  fulfills the academic, financial, social, personal, and cultural needs of all graduate students by promoting diversity, encouraging faculty/student communication, and advocating for your primary student role—immersion in your research.

The Department of Biochemistry Within the department, there are the Faculty Advisory Committee ,  Research Mentors ,  Curriculum Advisors ,  and the  Biochemistry Graduate Student Office  that works for your success and helps you plan for your future. 

The Biochemistry Graduate Student Council (BGSC) This  BGSC  is composed of five, annually elected members who represent the graduate student body. Three members serve as core BGSC representatives; the fourth member coordinates volunteer and outreach opportunities; while the fifth member is the department's Graduate and Professional Student Government (GPSG) representative. The BGSC helps identify and solve graduate student life issues by working with the department and the Graduate School.  And at monthly meetings, the council and interested students discuss upcoming BGSC hosted events.

Biochemistry Mission Statement

The mission of the Duke University Biochemistry Graduate program is to educate and mentor students from diverse backgrounds in the fundamentals of biochemical principles and practice through courses and research by (1) guiding students in their thesis research project, and (2) preparing them for a career in research, education, or other disciplines. The program promotes a commitment to excellence in research scholarship and fosters a spirit of creativity, service, and respect, within an environment that is ethical, inclusive, and diverse.

Graduates from our program will have the necessary knowledge, research skills, and career guidance in the field of biochemistry to succeed in a research and/or scientific career . Specific program aims are:

• Coursework: Graduates will be trained in a broad understanding of cellular structure and function at a molecular level; with deep knowledge in specific disciplines such as nucleic acid biochemistry, molecular genetics, biophysical methods, mechanistic enzymology, glycobiology, and membrane biogenesis, dynamics, transport, and receptor biology; and critical scientific thinking skills.
• Research: Develop student skills a) in the laboratory and/or with computational research in order to reveal new biological principles; b) to perform in-depth analysis, interpretation, and presentation of research results; and c) to conduct ethical and responsible research.
• Career Development: Prepare graduates for careers in interdisciplinary biochemical fields through training in scientific research, responsibility and ethics, teaching, and science communication.

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Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, PhD

The Graduate Group in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics (BMB) is devoted to the education and training of doctoral students in quantitative, mechanistic and molecular frontiers of biochemistry and biophysics, broadly conceived. The goal is to produce the next generation of scientists, scholars, educators and leaders in biomedical sciences.

To achieve this goal, BMB starts with a strong relationship with the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, combined with a world class, diverse faculty of over 90 members from four institutions, the University of Pennsylvania, the Wistar Institute, and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Within the University of Pennsylvania, BMB draws on faculty from the schools of Medicine, Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Dental Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine.

BMB offers interdisciplinary training based on a rigorous core curriculum, combined with laboratory rotations, independent studies, and candidacy exam preparation that provides immersive training in laboratory and research skills to equip the students for their independent dissertation research.

For more information: https://www.med.upenn.edu/bmbgrad/

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs .

Required Courses 

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

Sample Plan of Study

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The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology doctorate degree program at IU School of Medicine typically takes five years to complete. The program includes two years of course work and three years of conducting original research full-time, culminating in a PhD thesis. This program prepares graduates for careers in academic research and teaching or in the business and industry side of bioscience.

Program Requirements

• A minimum of 30 credit hours of didactic coursework
• A minimum of 45 credit hours of research (B855)
• A minimum of 90 credit hours consisting of required and elective courses
• A scholarly thesis based on approved original research with oversight from a faculty mentor. Potential research topics include structural biology, signal transduction, drug development, regulation of gene expression, cancer biology and metabolic disorders.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA and a B- or better in all PhD coursework

Biochemistry PhD students must take at least two (of the available eight) two-credit Biochemistry core courses (BIOC-B811, GRDM-G805, G807, G817, G848, G852, G825, G826), which are offered among spring electives for the Indiana Biomedical Gateway Program (IBGP) or in the fall. These may be taken in year one or later years.

• GRDM-G715 Biomed I – Biomedical Science I – Biochemical Basis of Biological Processes*: 2 credits
• GRDM-G716 Biomed II – Biomedical Science II – Molecular Biology and Genetics*: 2 credits
• GRDM-G717 Biomed III – Biomedical Science III – Cellular Basis of Systems Biology*: 2 credits
• GRDM-G505 Responsible Conduct of Research*: 1 credit
• GRDM-G700 Translating Foundational Science to Contemporary Knowledge*: 1 credit
• GRDM-G702 Entering Biomedical Science Research*: 1 credit
• GRDM-G718 Research in Biomedical Science (first rotation): 2 credits

Biochemistry Core Electives

• GRDM-G805 Diabetes and Obesity: 2 credits
• GRDM-G825 Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology: 2 credits
• GRDM-G826 Synthetic Biology and Biologics: 2 credits

Research Communication (one of the following)

• COMM-C534 Distilling Your Message*: 1 credit
• COMM-C533 Improvisation for Scientists*: 1 credit
• ENG-W533 Science Writing for Public Readers*: 1 credit
• GRDM-G507 Reagent Validation as a Means for Enhanced Research Reproducibility*: 1 credit
• GRDM-G718 Research in Biomedical Science Rotations 2 and 3: 4 credits
• Indiana Biomedical Gateway Program open enrollment electives
• GRDM-G817 Molecular basis of cell structure and function: 2 credits
• GRDM-G852 Concepts of cancer biology: 2 credits
• GRDM-G807 Structural and chemical biology: 2 credits
• GRDM-G848 Bioinformatics applications to proteomics and genomics: 2 credits

Biochemistry Course Descriptions

Fall- Total of 10 credit hours

• GRDM-G855 Experimental Design and Research Biostatistics*: 1 credit
• BIOC- B890 Seminar: 1 credit
• Major course requirements: variable
• Minor course requirements: variable
• BIOC-B855 Research: variable

Spring- Total of 10 credit hours

• BIOC-B803 Advanced Biochemistry: 1 credit

During years 3 through 5, the student will take didactic courses if needed to fulfill either requirements for the biochemistry major or their chosen minor. In year 3, the student will typically register for a total of 10 cr. hours each fall and spring, including 1 cr. hour of BIOC-B890. 4 credit hours of B890 are required before advancing to candidacy.   The student will advance to candidacy upon completion of both major and minor coursework and having reached a total of 30 or more didactic hours of coursework as well as successful defense of their thesis proposal which serves as the students qualifying examination.

Work will continue in the field of the candidate’s thesis. Emphasis will be on the ability to pursue research with relative independence and responsibility.

MD/PhD students are not required to take GRDM-G715-717 but are expected to perform lab rotations during summer breaks from medical school classes. MD/PhD students must take two or more of the two-credit Biochemistry core courses (GRDM-G805, G807, G817, G852, G825, G826, G848) along with other courses required of IBMG and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology PhD students (GRDM-G505, G655, G855, BIOC-B803 and B890 [4x]).

• Financial Aid  PhD students with eligibility to work in the U.S. receive a competitive annual stipend without a Teaching Assistant requirement ($29,000 for the 2020-2021 academic year) as well as tuition scholarships and health and dental insurance. Find additional financial aid information from the IUPUI Office of Student Financial Services .

PhD Program

Be part of innovative research and mentored by leading experts in the field.

Every student must publish at least one first author research paper prior to graduation

Our department offers a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology. The program is designed for students interested in molecular mechanisms, proteomics, and biophysics. The department accepts up to five PhD students each year.

What You’ll Learn

Your training as a doctoral candidate in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology at GUMC will be multifaceted. Our program has developed a solid educational platform designed not only to challenge the candidate, but also to provide supportive mentorship in order to aid the candidate as they develop their own skillsets and become a scientific leader.

Thesis mentors are available from a variety of backgrounds spanning stem cell biology and human tissue engineering to traditional biochemical analytics, with an optional focus on informatics- or systems-based medicine. Each faculty mentor represents a diverse component of the biomedical scientific enterprise and each has dedicated their career to enhancing biomedical science through independent research and doctoral candidate training.

Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in academia, industry, medicine, law, and finance. Contact the program if you would like more information.

Learn about the application process.

Browse our required courses.

Course Schedule

Find an example course schedule.

Student Resources

Many resources are available for current students.

Career Services

Prepare for the next step in your career.

Questions about the program or application process? Email us!

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences

School of Molecular & Cellular Biology

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Department of Biochemistry

Pursue a PhD in Biochemistry

Request information    Degree requirements   Apply Core courses   Advanced Electives

We train graduate students to become skilled and creative biochemists and molecular biologists. We have outstanding resources in our internationally recognized faculty, graduate students, and research facilities. Our graduate program not only allows our research students to learn the latest techniques, but also fosters their development as independent scientists. With a PhD in Biochemistry from UIUC, you will be well-prepared to launch a career in academia or industry. Our alumni are leaders in industrial laboratories, research institutes, and government agencies, as well as in teaching, research, and administration in colleges and universities.

As a PhD student in the Department of Biochemistry, you will pursue research alongside brilliant faculty and graduate students while advancing the frontiers of this exciting field. Our labs encompass a variety of areas, including biological chemistry and molecular biology: physical approaches to the structure and function of proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates, including structural biology (Cryo-Em, x-ray crystallography, etc.); genomics, enzymology; membrane biochemistry and protein-lipid interactions; protein-nucleic acid interactions; molecular biological approaches to gene organization and expression; immunology; microbial physiology, and signal transduction. We collaborate with peers at units across campus and around the world.

At the U of I we boast world-class facilities, equipment, and technology . The department is a close-knit community which holds numerous events throughout the year, such as an annual research conference and graduate research seminar series.

Title Meet Yiquan

When he's not studying SARS-CoV-2 or influenza, Yiquan Wang, a biochemistry PhD student and member of Nicholas Wu's lab, can be found creating works of art. Yiquan shares how he's bridging his love for art and biochemistry to help people better understand virology. 

Title State-of-the-art facilities

The Department of Biochemistry contains all of the equipment appropriate for modern biochemical research. Specialized facilities available within the department include equipment for large scale growth and processing of animal cells as well as state-of-the-art S-ray diffraction equipment. Other supporting facilities include specialized labs for recording infrared, ultraviolet, fluorescence, electron spin resonance, mass, nuclear magnetic resonance, and optical rotatory dispersion spectra. Electronic, machine, photographic, and glass-blowing shops are also available.

The campus also provides many state-of-the-art core facilities, from the Beckman Institute to the Woese Institute for Genomic Biology .

Research collaborations   Research facilities & resources 

The Department of Biochemistry is part of the School of Molecular & Cellular Biology. Prospective Biochemistry PhD students should apply directly to the MCB PhD Program .

During your first semester, you will rotate through three laboratories to learn experimental techniques and the information you need to choose a research project. You will then select a research adviser and formally join the graduate program by the spring semester of your first year.

Financial support

All students accepted into the PhD program receive year-round financial support through fellowships, traineeships, or graduate assistantships, which provide a generous stipend as well as a full tuition and partial fee waiver. The department guarantees financial support to all students as long as they make satisfactory progress toward their PhD. Students are also encouraged to apply for extramural pre-doctoral fellowships for which they may be eligible, such as the National Science Foundation, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ford Foundation, and other fellowships.

MCB PhD Programs

Shawna M. Smith, MCB Graduate Program Coordinator Lori Raetzman, Associate Director of MCB Graduate Program [email protected] ; 217-333-1737

Graduate student affairs: [email protected]

Satish Nair, Department Head and Gregorio Weber Chair [email protected] ; 217-333-3945

Kai Zhang, Associate Professor of Biochemistry and Director of Graduate Studies; Associate Head, Department of Biochemistry [email protected]

Graduate Programs

• Biochem & MolBiophysics PhD

Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics PhD

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics PhD Program ranks in the top 10 nationally and represents a traditional strength in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at UCSD. The goal of the program is to prepare students for careers in the biochemical sciences as researchers and educators by expanding their knowledge of structural biology, protein, RNA, and lipid biochemistry, experimental and computational biophysics, and systems biology while developing their ability for critical analysis, creativity, and independent study. A high graduation rate in an average of just over five years can be attributed to the quality of applicants admitted, the flexibility of our program of study, the opportunity for students to begin research in the first year, and the affordability of education made possible by our generous financial support policies.

Program Overview

Programs of study are tailored to the needs of individual students, based on their prior training and research interests. However, progress to degree is generally similar for all students. During the first year, students take courses, begin their teaching apprenticeships, choose research advisors, and embark on their thesis research; students whose native language is not English must pass an English proficiency examination. Beginning the first summer, the emphasis is on research, although courses of special interest may be taken throughout a student's residency. At the end of their first year, students choose the departmental members of their thesis committee and begin to prepare a written research proposal. During their second year, they complete their research proposal and defend it orally. In the third year, students advance to candidacy for the doctorate by defending the topic, preliminary findings, and future research plans for their dissertation. Subsequent years focus on thesis research and writing the dissertation. Most students graduate during their fifth year.

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities for graduate students are comprehensive and interdisciplinary, spanning biochemistry; biophysics; structural biology, protein, RNA, and lipid biochemistry, experimental and computational biophysics, and systems biology. Please refer to the faculty pages for full descriptions of the on-going research of faculty in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics PhD Program. State-of-the-art facilities and laboratories support these research programs.

UCSD is a thriving community that stretches across campus with opportunities for research and collaborations among a large number of faculty in the Division of Biology, the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the School of Medicine, the La Jolla Institute of Immunology, the Salk Institute, and many others.

Special Training Programs

Interdisciplinary research and collaboration at UCSD is enhanced through a variety of training grants. These programs provide financial support for exceptional graduate and postdoctoral scholars and also unite researchers from across campus and throughout the La Jolla research community in special seminars, retreats, and courses. Doctoral students usually apply for training grants in their second year.

• Molecular Biophysics Training Grant
• Contemporary Approaches to Cancer Cell Signaling and Communication
• Interfaces Graduate Training Program
• Molecular Pharmacology Training Program

Teaching apprenticeships are a vital and integral part of graduate student training, and four quarters of teaching are normally required. See the Teaching Assistants page to apply. Students can gain experience teaching both discussion and laboratory sections. Excellence in teaching is stressed, and the department provides a thorough training program covering both fundamentals and special techniques for effective instruction. Further training is provided by the Teaching and Learning Commons on campus. Performance is evaluated every quarter, and awards are bestowed quarterly for outstanding teaching performance.

Financial Support

Students in good academic standing receive a 12-month stipend; fees and tuition are also provided. Support packages come from a variety of sources, including teaching and research assistantships, training grants, fellowships, and awards. Special fellowships are awarded to outstanding students based on their admission files. See Ph.D. Program Support Policy for more information.

Health and Dental Plan

A primary health care program, major medical plan, and dental plan are among the benefits provided by the University's registration fee (see Graduate Student Health Insurance Program, GSHIP) . Minor illnesses and injuries can usually be treated at the Student Health Center . Counseling is provided free of charge through Counseling and Psychological Services .

Creative, bright, and motivated students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We admit for Fall quarter entrance only. The application deadline is in mid-December. The Admissions Committee reviews files individually and in comparison to others, and offers are made beginning mid-January. Admitted applicants are invited to visit the campus. Application information is available here . See UCSD Ph.D. Admissions FAQ page for general information.

PostGraduate Placement

Graduates typically obtain jobs in academia or in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry. La Jolla is home to the third largest Biotech/Pharmaceutical industry mecca. Many of our alumni stay in San Diego and obtain positions in one of the over 300 companies that are located near UCSD. During their PhD, students can take advantage of the many internships that are available at these companies. A large proportion of our graduates attain postdoctoral research positions in leading academic institutions. The Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics Program provides career advising throughout the PhD. UCSD's Career Services Center and the Physical Sciences Student Success Center provides many resources for students, including the chance to videotape yourself in a mock interview!

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PhD in Biochemistry

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Students are based in a research group and undertake a research project agreed with the principal investigator (supervisor). Each student also has additional mentorship support from an advisor and a Postgraduate Thesis Panel.  Although there is no formal, examined coursework, the student's progress is assessed at various stages. The most important of these is the First-Year Assessment which comprises the submission of a thesis report and an oral examination, assessed by two examiners. Registration for a PhD is only possible following a satisfactory outcome from the First-Year Assessment. In their second year, students present their research work in poster form. In the third year, students present their work in a talk given to the whole Department.

The PhD degree in Biochemistry is designed to train students to be effective research scientists.  In addition to developing deep knowledge of a subject area and a broader understanding of the relevant field, students will develop skills in:

• identifying experimentally answerable scientific questions and assessing the value of these questions to both science and society
• designing and executing experiments that test these scientific questions
• analysing and interpreting experimental data
• presenting the aims and outcomes of scientific research in both written and oral form
• sourcing, assessing and critically evaluating scientific literature
• time, data and resource management
• collaborative and interpersonal professional behaviour

Many of these skills will be acquired within the student’s research group. Other skills will be developed outside their research group: at the beginning of their first year, students attend an in-house training course of lectures and workshops, and can subsequently continue their training in many areas, choosing from the wide range of courses available within the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences and the University.  Students will also belong to a Peer Research Group, composed of other postgraduate students, within which workshops, student research projects, and scientific literature are presented and discussed.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of biochemistry, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024, easter 2025, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

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PhD in Biochemistry

Application information.

Students enter the Biochemistry PhD program by applying to the Biomedical Sciences Training Program (BSTP) .  Ideal candidates will possess strong grades and have completed undergraduate courses in biology, mathematics, physics, and chemistry.

To apply students should submit

• a completed application form,
• three letters of recommendation,
• official undergraduate transcript(s), and
• when applicable, official TOEFL scores.

If you wish to apply only to the Biochemistry PhD program, select Biochemistry in the "Preferred Program of Interest (PPI)" menu. Please read about PPIs in  the BSTP's FAQ page .

Online applications are submitted through the site for the School of Graduate Studies. Please select Biomedical Sciences Training Program in the "Academic Program" menu once you  start the application .

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• Biochemistry, Ph.D.

Biochemistry is the study of biological molecules, their roles in the cell, and the chemistry of their reactions in living systems. The Integrated Program in Biochemistry (IPiB) is the merged graduate program between the Department of Biochemistry (in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences) and the Department of Biomolecular Chemistry (in the School of Medicine and Public Health). The program trains the next generation of biochemists and prepares them for 21st Century challenges in science. IPiB offers a Ph.D. degree with a major in biochemistry. Although an M.S. degree is officially offered, students are not admitted for a terminal master's degree.

From atoms and cells to plants and animals, biochemistry research in IPiB is at the forefront of modern science. We are home to around 100 graduate students and 57 world-class faculty pursuing cutting-edge research in all areas of biochemistry, including: cell and developmental biology, chemical biology, endocrinology, enzymology, immunology, metabolism, molecular genetics, molecular medicine, physical biochemistry and biophysics, quantitative biology, structural biology, systems and synthetic biology, and virology. The program teaches critical thinking skills, applicable to a wide range of professional fields that students pursue after graduation.

The size and breadth of IPiB provide unique opportunities for graduate students who want to pursue a degree in one of the top biochemistry graduate programs in the nation. Our modern facilities are filled with labs carrying out groundbreaking research in a collaborative, friendly, and inspirational atmosphere. Welcome to IPiB and we hope that you can share our enthusiasm for the biochemical sciences!

Dual Degrees

The program participates with the School of Medicine and Public Health in offering a dual degree program for students wishing to complete both the M.D. and Ph.D. degrees. For the prerequisites and degree requirements for the M.D. degree, as well as the online application form, see Medical Scientist Training Program .

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online .

To qualify for admission to the program, an applicant must complete a bachelor's degree at a recognized, accredited college or university. The basic background for graduate study in biochemistry ordinarily would be provided by an undergraduate degree in biochemistry, chemistry, physics, or in one of the biological or medical sciences. The Admission Committee assesses a candidate’s potential for success in the program by taking all aspects of their application into consideration. Most successful applicants have completed a rigorous undergraduate curriculum that includes courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math. Most have also had a substantive laboratory experience that demonstrates commitment and talent for research. The applicant's undergraduate grade point average must be at least 3.0 (4.0 scale). For more information, please visit the Prospective Students tab on the program's website.

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid.  Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Program Resources

IPiB students receive a full stipend  as well as tuition remission and comprehensive health insurance. The stipends take the form of traineeships, research assistantships, or fellowships, and are guaranteed for all IPiB Ph.D. candidates in good academic standing and making satisfactory research progress. IPiB also assists its graduate students with outstanding academic records in competing for University or national awards.

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

Major requirements.

Review the Graduate School minimum academic progress and degree requirements , in addition to the program requirements listed below.

MODE OF INSTRUCTION

Mode of instruction definitions.

Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.

Evening/Weekend: ​Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules.  Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.

Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.

Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats.  Contact the program for more specific information.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online.  Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS

Required courses, graduate school policies.

The  Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures  provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.

Major-Specific Policies

Prior coursework, graduate work from other institutions.

For well-prepared advanced students, the program may accept up to 12 credits of prior graduate coursework from an uncompleted degree from other institutions towards the minimum graduate degree credit and minimum graduate coursework (50%) requirement. The minimum graduate residence credit requirement can be satisfied only with courses taken as a graduate student at UW–Madison.

UW–Madison Undergraduate

No credits from a UW–Madison undergraduate degree are allowed to count toward the graduate degree.

UW–Madison University Special

No credits taken as a University Special student are allowed to count toward the graduate degree.

This program follows the Graduate School's Probation policy.

ADVISOR / COMMITTEE

Every graduate student must have a faculty thesis advisor in the program. The thesis advisor advises the student about coursework, supervises the student's research, and acts as a mentor to the student through the student’s graduate career. The thesis advisor must approve the student's coursework before registration for a given semester and must also approve any subsequent changes to it.

A Ph.D. thesis committee is composed of at least four graduate University faculty members, including the thesis advisor. The thesis committee is empowered by the program to advise the student about certification, administer the preliminary examination, oversee annual progress reports, approve thesis composition, and conduct the final Ph.D. examination.

CREDITS PER TERM ALLOWED

A maximum of 12 credits in Fall and Spring semesters and 2 credits in Summer semesters is permitted for non-dissertators; 3 credits in Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters for dissertators.

Time limits

This program follows the Graduate School's Time Limits policy.

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These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:

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College of Agricultural and Life Sciences: Grievance Policy  

In the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), any student who feels unfairly treated by a member of the CALS faculty or staff has the right to complain about the treatment and to receive a prompt hearing. Some complaints may arise from misunderstandings or communication breakdowns and be easily resolved; others may require formal action. Complaints may concern any matter of perceived unfairness.

To ensure a prompt and fair hearing of any complaint, and to protect the rights of both the person complaining and the person at whom the complaint is directed, the following procedures are used in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Any student, undergraduate or graduate, may use these procedures, except employees whose complaints are covered under other campus policies.

• The student should first talk with the person at whom the complaint is directed. Most issues can be settled at this level. Others may be resolved by established departmental procedures.
• If the complaint involves an academic department in CALS the student should proceed in accordance with item 3 below.
• If the grievance involves a unit in CALS that is not an academic department, the student should proceed in accordance with item 4 below.
• If informal mediation fails, the student can submit the grievance in writing to the grievance advisor within 10 working days of the date the student is informed of the failure of the mediation attempt by the grievance advisor. The grievance advisor will provide a copy to the person at whom the grievance is directed.
• The grievance advisor will refer the complaint to a department committee that will obtain a written response from the person at whom the complaint is directed, providing a copy to the student. Either party may request a hearing before the committee. The grievance advisor will provide both parties a written decision within 20 working days from the date of receipt of the written complaint.
• If the grievance involves the department chairperson, the grievance advisor or a member of the grievance committee, these persons may not participate in the review.
• If not satisfied with departmental action, either party has 10 working days from the date of notification of the departmental committee action to file a written appeal to the CALS Equity and Diversity Committee. A subcommittee of this committee will make a preliminary judgement as to whether the case merits further investigation and review. If the subcommittee unanimously determines that the case does not merit further investigation and review, its decision is final. If one or more members of the subcommittee determine that the case does merit further investigation and review, the subcommittee will investigate and seek to resolve the dispute through mediation. If this mediation attempt fails, the subcommittee will bring the case to the full committee. The committee may seek additional information from the parties or hold a hearing. The committee will present a written recommendation to the dean who will provide a final decision within 20 working days of receipt of the committee recommendation.
• If the alleged unfair treatment occurs in a CALS unit that is not an academic department, the student should, within 120 calendar days of the alleged incident, take his/her grievance directly to the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. The dean will attempt to resolve the problem informally within 10 working days of receiving the complaint. If this mediation attempt does not succeed the student may file a written complaint with the dean who will refer it to the CALS Equity and Diversity Committee. The committee will seek a written response from the person at whom the complaint is directed, subsequently following other steps delineated in item 3d above.

All students, both US and international, receive an annual stipend and tuition remission for the duration of their studies, provided satisfactory progress is made toward their degree. Comprehensive medical coverage is also offered. In addition, some students are supported on fellowships or training grants. Students are chosen based on criteria specified by the different training grants.

Students may matriculate only in the fall semester.

Take advantage of the Graduate School's  professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

• Gain a broad understanding of the biochemical principles that underlie all biological processes.
• Become aware of the current limitations of the state of understanding of this discipline and the strategies that are required to advance the field.
• Formulate and design new approaches that extend and apply biochemical principles beyond their current boundaries.
• Conduct independent research using a diverse breadth of biochemical processes.
• Think critically to address research challenges using a broad range of the theories, research methods, and approaches to scientific inquiry.
• Collaborate with investigators within the program, university, and beyond since current and future advances in the biomolecular sciences demand interdisciplinary skills.
• Foster professional and ethical conduct in the sciences, including but not limited to: exposition of the scientific method; ethical design of experimental protocols; reproducibility in science; professional behavior in industrial, government, and academic settings; documentation of scientific results; communication to other scientists and the public; peer review; and confidentiality.
• Develop communications skills that enable the articulation of research to fellow scientists and non-scientists.
• Explore career development opportunities in industry, government and academia to realize professional goals and paths.
• Develop teaching and mentoring skills in both lecture and laboratory settings.

Faculty: Professors B. Fox (Chair, Department of Biochemistry), Kiley (Chair, Department of Biomolecular Chemistry), Amasino, Attie, Audhya, Bednarek, Brow, Buller, Butcher, Campbell, Cantor, Cavagnero, Chaudhari, Coon, Cox, Coyle, Craciun, Craig, Denu, Engin, Fan, C. Fox, Friesen, Galmozzi, Gellman, Grant, Harrison, Henzler-Wildman, Hess, Holden, Hoskins, Hull, Keck, Kimble, Kirchdoerfer, Landick, Lewis, Lim, Merrins, Mosher, Neugebauer, Ntambi, Putnam, Ralph, Raman, Rayment, Rienstra, Romero, Senes, Sheets, Simcox, Sussman, Venturelli, Wang, Weeks, Wright

• Requirements
• Professional Development
• Learning Outcomes

Contact Information

Biochemistry, Biomolecular Chemistry College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health Integrated Program in Biochemistry http://www.ipib.wisc.edu/

For prospective students [email protected]

Kate Ryan, for current and former students, Graduate Program Manager [email protected] 608-265-2281 1142F HF DeLuca Biochemistry Building, 420 Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706-1532

David A. Brow, Director of Graduate Study [email protected] 608-262-1475 4204b Biochemical Sciences Building 440 Henry Mall, Madison, WI 53706-1544

Graduate Program Handbook View Here

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• MD/PhD in Biochemistry

For contact information, please visit the Graduate Medical Sciences website .

General Program Information

MD/PhD candidates must fulfill the requirements for both the MD and the PhD degrees. Please consult with the BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine Admissions office  for information on how to apply to the MD/PhD program, as well as the curriculum for the MD component.

For the PhD component of the dual degree program, our PhD program is part of a program called the Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS) . This interdisciplinary “umbrella” program incorporates didactic coursework and biomedical research to prepare our graduates for career advancement. In addition to the didactic coursework, students rotate in a number of research laboratories, enabling the selection of a dissertation research laboratory. Students join the program/department with which the mentor is affiliated and continue advanced studies toward candidacy.

The didactic coursework includes our Foundations in Biomedical Sciences core classes, which incorporate principles of biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics. Accommodations are made for courses in the medical school curriculum that overlap with the content of courses in the PhD curriculum. Additional coursework includes laboratory techniques, statistics, and advanced electives.

In addition to the biomedical science coursework mentioned above, we offer professional development workshops, panel discussions, site visits, and internships to enable students to consider and prepare for a variety of career paths. Please see BU’s BEST  and PhD Professional Development Opportunities  for more information.

MD/PhD candidates participate in our research that relies on cutting-edge technologies and experimental systems to address the cellular and molecular mechanisms of biological processes, particularly those that relate broadly to human disease. Our research  encompasses the areas of  cell biology , development , genomics/genetics , neuroscience , metabolism , and proteomics & glycomics .

Qualifying Examinations

Candidates for the MD/PhD degrees must pass both a written qualifying examination and an oral qualifying examination.

Dissertation Advisory Committee and Dissertation Defense

MD/PhD candidates present a research proposal to a five-member Dissertation Advisory Committee. The committee is assembled at least once every nine months to discuss the progress of the accepted proposal. Once the committee determines that the research work is complete, the student writes and defends the dissertation.

Please go to our Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology website  or contact Dr. Barbara Schreiber , Director of Graduate Studies, for additional information.

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PhD in Chemistry and Biochemistry

• How to Apply

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers a Ph.D. degree program in Chemistry and Biochemistry. Students in the program take coursework and participate in mentored research to develop a fundamental understanding of the chemical and biochemical principles that direct the discovery, design and development of new approaches to address fundamental challenges related to health, education, environment, and energy. Several areas of research emphasis are open to students in the program, including Bioanalytical, Biophysical, Inorganic and Bioinorganic Chemistry, Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Natural Products, Integrative Medicine and Chemical Education Research. In addition, opportunities to take part in Internships with local companies are available as part of the training.  For more information about the Chemistry and Biochemistry program, please see our Frequently Asked Questions page , or contact individual faculty members about research opportunities.

For general questions about the Chemistry and Biochemistry Ph.D. program, please contact:

Dr. Nicholas Oberlies Director of Graduate Studies [email protected] 336-334-5474

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry The University of North Carolina at Greensboro Patricia A. Sullivan Science Building PO Box 26170 | Greensboro, NC 27402-6170 Phone: 336.334.5714 | Fax: 336.334.5402 Copyright © 2022. The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. All rights reserved