Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, PhD

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

BMB 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.

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.

Required Courses 

Coursework
BIOM 6000Cell Biology
BMB 5080Macromolecular Biophysics: Principles and Methods
BMB 5090Structural and Mechanistic Biochemistry
BMB 5100Data Analysis and Scientific Inference
BMB 7050Candidacy Exam Preparation Course
Select four electives
Research
BMB 6990Laboratory Rotation
BMB 8990Pre-Dissertation Research
BMB 9950Dissertation Research

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.



 

Sample Plan of Study

Year 1
Fall
Cell Biology
Macromolecular Biophysics: Principles and Methods
Laboratory Rotation
Elective
Spring
Structural and Mechanistic Biochemistry
Data Analysis and Scientific Inference
Laboratory Rotation
Elective
Summer
Laboratory Rotation
Year 2
Fall
Pre-Dissertation Research
Elective
Elective
Spring
Pre-Dissertation Research
Candidacy Exam Preparation Course
Year 3 and Beyond
Dissertation Research