Graduate Studies

Welcome to graduate studies in Molecular Biosciences. The School of Molecular Biosciences (SMB) offers outstanding opportunities for graduate students to pursue research projects in the life sciences using state of the art equipment in a modern research building. SMB faculty are at the forefront of their fields and are conducting research in a diverse and exciting range of topics including reproductive and developmental biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and cell biology.

The graduate program also is a participant in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s umbrella Integrated Program in Biomedical Sciences (iPBS). All students who enter the Molecular Biosciences PhD program take the SMB graduate curriculum and participate in the interdisciplinary training offered by iPBS. This program also offers a professional development track throughout the duration of your training.

Please use the links on the left to find out more information regarding the application process, program specifics, faculty research programs and facilities.

Student Learning Outcomes of Molecular Biosciences Graduate Program

Objectives for Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Trainees will gain research expertise that is interdisciplinary, spanning the areas of cellular, molecular and structural biology, and receive focused training in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics or microbiology. This outcome will be demonstrated by their ability to:
   1. Develop the skills to critically read and evaluate molecular biosciences literature and place new findings in the context of the previous and current research in their general discipline and specific field of expertise.
   2. Develop testable hypotheses based on an in-depth understanding of previous and current research, and design experimental approaches to successfully test the hypothesis. Evaluate experimental results critically, including quantitative analyses, and formulate a defensible conclusion. Demonstrate technical competency in appropriate methodologies from the disciplines of biochemistry, genetics and microbiology.
2. Trainees will have opportunities to master various professional skills, particularly in the areas of communication, mentoring and leadership. Success in this outcome will be demonstrated by students’ ability to:
   1. Communicate their research results and its importance to experts in their field as well as general lay audiences, effectively in both written and oral form.
   2. Understand and follow norms of scientific ethics, including concepts of publication ethics and responsible conduct in research.
   3. Exhibit proficiency in mentoring and teaching, including development of leadership skills.