Program Overview
The PhD in Biochemistry program prepares students for careers in academia and industry, in both research and positions in which a strong background in research is important. The emphasis of the doctoral program is on research, culminating in the completion of an original independent doctoral thesis under the guidance of a faculty member in the Biochemistry program. Students' research is aimed at understanding the structures and functions of proteins and other biological macromolecules, such as RNA in biological systems. There is also a strong focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of complex diseases, such as cancer and infectious diseases, that can lead to new therapies. Many research projects involve collaborations with scientists at CWRU and at institutions around the world.
Students begin with an integrated curriculum in cell and molecular biology and then take courses in Biochemistry and other subjects to provide a strong knowledge base in biomedical research. They also participate in formal and informal seminars as well as discussions of current literature.
Admissions
Students are admitted to this PhD program through the Biomedical Sciences Training Program (BSTP) or the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP).
Biomedical Sciences Training Program (BSTP)
The BSTP offers a common entry point to most of the School of Medicine's biomedical PhD programs. BSTP students can choose among research mentors in many different PhD programs in the School of Medicine.
Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)
Students in the MSTP earn the dual MD/PhD degree. MSTP students also have the choice of mentors in many different PhD programs. The admission requirements of those programs can be viewed on their pages in the Bulletin. Program requirements for the dual can be found on the Medical Scientist Training Program, PhD/Medicine, MD program page.
PhD Policies
For PhD policies and procedures, please review the School of Graduate Studies section of the General Bulletin.
Program Requirements
Students enter the program through the Biomedical Sciences Training Program (BSTP) or the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP). Students perform research rotations with faculty members while they are in those programs and then select a faculty research advisor and join the Biochemistry PhD program after the first semester (BSTP) or second year (MSTP).
The Biochemistry PhD requires coursework, a qualifying exam, and completion of the thesis. Throughout the doctoral training, students participate in seminars, journal clubs, and research meetings with their lab group and the Biochemistry Department.
Coursework
Coursework taken while students are in the BSTP or MSTP provide a solid basis of fundamental knowledge. Once students join the Biochemistry PhD program, they take courses in Biochemistry and other departments that provide them with a comprehensive understanding of biochemistry and other subjects, with a focus on acquiring the knowledge required to complete the thesis research as described in the Program of Study. Students who have completed relevant coursework elsewhere, (for example, with an MS) may petition to complete alternative courses. The PhD degree requires 36 credit hours of coursework (24 credits hours of which are graded).
Qualifying Exam
Each PhD student must complete a qualifying examination on their research topic in the form of a grant proposal with oral defense on their thesis topic for advancement to candidacy. The qualifying examination is usually completed during the second year.
Dissertation
The thesis research is the most important element of the degree. Students complete an independent body of research with mentoring from their thesis advisor, and extensive interactions with faculty members, students, and other researchers. Publication of results in scientific journals is a degree requirement. During the dissertation period, students meet regularly with their thesis committees, present seminars in the department, attend scientific meetings, and fulfill journal publication requirements. During the thesis research, students complete 18 credit hours of BIOC 701.
