The Ph.D. Program
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology offers a research-intensive Ph.D. program that is designed to prepare students for careers in biomedical research, biotechnology, and teaching. Research opportunities extend from basic research in cell and molecular biology to applied research in molecular medicine. Research areas include structural biophysics; protein design and engineering; genetics; molecular genetics and gene regulation; developmental biology and molecular embryology; genomics; developmental biology and cellular regulation; neurobiochemistry; molecular immunology; macromolecular assembly and recognition; membrane and lipid biochemistry; neurobiochemistry and signal transduction; cell-cycle regulation; protein chemistry; metabolic regulation; and neurobiology. About fifty students currently pursue the Ph.D. degree in the department. Applicants to the program in biochemistry and molecular biology are a diverse group, and typically have undergraduate majors in biology, biochemistry, or chemistry. Applicants with backgrounds in physics, engineering, or computer science are also appropriate and welcome.
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Advanced computation resources are available to graduate students for
image processing and other biomedical research needs.
Coursework
During the first year, students complete a rigorous series of courses including core curriculum courses in biochemistry, structural biology, cell biology, and genetics. Elective courses are chosen from among those offered by the department and other Ph.D. programs at Baylor. Additionally, students conduct a different laboratory research rotation for three or four terms in their first year, and participate in a weekly graduate student research seminar. Because of the diverse backgrounds and interests of our students, course selections can be tailored to meet individual needs.
Laboratory Rotations
During the first year, students begin the process of selecting an advisor and a research project. This process is facilitated by attending faculty research presentations, and by conducting research in different laboratories selected by the students. Each student is expected to have chosen a research advisor by the end of the first year.
Qualifying Examination
This examination normally takes place at the beginning of year-two, and consists of two parts: the preparation of a written research proposal, and the defense of the proposal before a qualifying examination committee consisting of four faculty members. Upon satisfactory completion of the qualifying examination, completion of 30 hours of didactic course work, and appointment of an advisory committee, the student is formally recommended to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree.
Dissertation Research
The dissertation research is the most important component of the doctoral program, and is carried out under the supervision of a research advisor and a thesis advisory committee. The research project normally takes four years to complete. This work must be of sufficient importance, rigor, and originality to warrant publication in high-quality scientific journals. The completed research serves as the basis for the Ph.D. dissertation.
Continuing Education
Continuing professional enhancement is achieved by participation in lectures, seminar series, and workshops devoted to specific research topics. A weekly graduate student seminar provides an important opportunity for students to improve communication skills and receive important feedback on their research projects.
Research Conference
Each year the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology sponsors a research conference where the research efforts of the faculty are formally presented and discussed. One principal goal of the retreat is to acquaint new students with all the members of the department. The department pays the costs for the first-year graduate students to attend the retreat.
Journal Clubs and Research Meetings
Participation by the graduate students in various research journal clubs is also strongly encouraged. Students are also encouraged to participate in seminars and research forums held weekly within the department.