Program Overview
Arizona State University's Biochemistry PhD program equips students with molecular tools to solve biological problems. Through coursework, seminars, and research, students develop expertise in biochemistry and prepare for careers in academia, industry, government, and non-profit organizations. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research and the application of biochemistry to address societal challenges.
Program Outline
The program trains students to become independent and successful scientists capable of addressing current societal challenges.
Objectives:
- Train students to solve biological problems using molecular tools.
- Prepare students for success in an interdisciplinary scientific world.
- Develop students' competence in research, analysis, and presentation of scientific findings.
- Foster critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills.
Program Description:
This PhD program emphasizes the structure, properties, and synthesis of molecules in a biological context. Students delve into transdisciplinary research alongside faculty and engage in advanced research projects. The program culminates in a dissertation demonstrating the student's ability to conduct independent research and contribute to the field of biochemistry.
Outline:
Coursework:
- 84 credit hours
- Six graduate-level courses (12-18 credits)
- BCH 501/CHM 501 seminar (8 credits)
- 46-52 credits of BCH 792 Research
- 12 credits of BCH 799 Dissertation
Structure:
- Students choose coursework and seminars in consultation with their supervisory committee based on their research interests.
- The program progresses through coursework, seminars, qualifying exams, research, and dissertation defense.
Qualifying Exams:
- Written comprehensive exam
- Oral comprehensive exam
- Prospectus defense
Research:
- Students conduct original research under the guidance of faculty mentors.
- Research areas include biogeochemistry, energy and sustainability, fundamental chemical biology, materials and nanoscience, medicine and health, and structure function and dynamics.
Dissertation:
- Students write and defend a dissertation based on their research findings.
Assessment:
- Students are assessed through coursework, seminars, qualifying exams, research progress reports, and their dissertation defense.
- Evaluation criteria include knowledge of biochemistry principles, research skills, critical thinking, analysis, communication, and innovation.
Teaching:
- The program features a combination of lectures, seminars, and research supervision.
- Faculty members are internationally recognized researchers with expertise in various areas of biochemistry.
- The program emphasizes hands-on research experience and close mentorship by faculty.
Careers:
Career Opportunities:
- Academia (high school and higher education)
- Entrepreneurship (consulting, startups)
- Government (research, policy)
- Industry (research and development, quality control)
- Nonprofit (policy, public education)
Career Examples:
- Chemistry lecturer
- Drug discovery scientist
- Government scientist
- Pharmacology scientist
- Research and development scientist
- Research group leader
- Science consultant
- University professor
Resources:
- American Chemical Society Careers: https://www.acs.org/careers/chemical-sciences.html
Other:
- The program is STEM-OPT eligible, allowing international students to extend their work authorization for up to 36 months.
- Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 to remain in good standing.
