Biochemistry

The Department of Biochemistry at Boston University School of Medicine offers degree programs in Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a combined Doctor of Medicine degree with a PhD (MD/PhD). Our PhD program is part of a PhD program called the Program in Biomedical Sciences (or PiBS for short). This interdisciplinary, “umbrella” program incorporates didactic coursework and biomedical research to prepare our graduates for career advancement. Our Foundations in Biomedical Sciences (FiBS) and Professional Development & Mentoring curricula have been integrated into this program. Students applying for acceptance into the PhD program should apply directly to PiBS. More information about the program and the application process can be found on our Department of Biochemistry website.

Students also enter the department through the MD/PhD program. MD/PhD candidates must fulfill the requirements for both the MD and the PhD degrees. Please consult with the Office of Admissions for Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) for information on how to apply to the MD/PhD program, as well as the curriculum for the MD component (medical school curriculum). For the PhD component of the dual degree program, the curriculum mirrors that of the PhD students.

The Department of Biochemistry within Boston University School of Medicine is part of a large medical school/hospital complex that includes state-of-the-art laboratories, mass spectrometry resources, confocal laser scanning microscopy and transgenic animal facilities.

Graduate training combines integrated coursework in biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics and genomics with extensive research training. We use cutting-edge technologies and experimental systems to address the cellular and molecular mechanisms of biological processes, particularly those that relate broadly to human disease. Students may take advantage of the full breadth of training in modern biochemistry offered in the department through their choice of elective courses, medical school-wide seminars, and research. Our research encompasses the areas of cell fate & development, cell biology & cancer, inflammation & extracellular matrix, obesity & metabolism, neuroscience & aging, and proteomics & glycomics.

In addition to the biomedical science coursework mentioned above, our new Professional Development & Mentoring curriculum offers our graduate students opportunities to consider careers in a variety of sectors, including research and non-research careers in academia, biotechnology, government, or wherever they may choose to work after Boston University. Students enjoy a rich curriculum of professional development in areas outside of the traditional basic science classes. In this regard, there are credit-bearing courses as well as workshops, shadowing experiences, and internships, all part of our NIH-funded award called BU’s BEST (Broadening Experiences in Scientific Training).

• PhD in Biochemistry
• MD/PhD in Biochemistry
• Research Laboratories