Biochemistry, Biophysics and Chemical Biology, PhD

The Graduate Group in Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Chemical Biology (BBCB) 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, BBCB starts with a strong relationship with the Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Chemical Biology, 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, BBCB draws on faculty from the schools of Medicine, Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Dental Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine.

BBCB 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.

Curriculum

Coursework
BIOM 6000Cell Biology
BBCB 5080Macromolecular Biophysics: Principles and Methods1
BBCB 5090Structural and Mechanistic Biochemistry1
BBCB 5100Data Analysis and Scientific Inference1
BBCB 7050Candidacy Exam Preparation Course0.5
Select four electives
Research
BBCB 6990Laboratory Rotation0-3
BBCB 8990Pre-Dissertation Research0-4
BBCB 9950Dissertation Research0

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.