Biological Chemistry Ph.D. Program
Students interested in joining the Biological Chemistry Ph.D. program must apply to the Basic Biomedical Sciences umbrella program.
About the Biological Chemistry Program
The Biological Chemistry Graduate Program at UT Southwestern provides state-of-the-art training and educates students to make significant research contributions in biochemistry and molecular biology. Their research focuses on elucidating the mechanisms by which proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules regulate cell and organismal functions. Graduates aim to discover the molecular basis of life processes that may reveal novel strategies for improving human health and well-being. The program places an emphasis on conducting rigorous, discovery-based research.
What to Expect
Students learn theory and techniques related to the molecular mechanisms that control the functions of proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules.
Students benefit from working collaboratively across disciplines to solve complex health challenges – a hallmark of a UT Southwestern education.
Faculty members are actively engaged in research topics such as gene regulation, RNA-mediated processes, enzymology, post-translational modifications, cellular metabolism, cancer biology, and drug discovery.
Going Beyond Lab Research
In addition to offering extensive training in laboratory research, the Biological Chemistry Graduate Program student experience fosters a culture of diversity and collaboration.
- Advanced Coursework
Students can take additional courses on modern methods in protein analysis, the role of enzymes in disease, as well as the drug discovery process in biotech and pharma.
- Journal Clubs
Students participate in faculty-mentored Journal Clubs that cover a broad range of topics in Biochemistry and related fields.
- Works-In-Progress Seminars
Each student presents a short talk on his/her own research annually and is required to attend this seminar series on a weekly basis.
- Annual Symposium
In our yearly symposium, students present their work and learn about exciting research developments from their fellow colleagues. These events bring together members of the BC Program and Organic Chemistry Program to facilitate collaborations and exploration of the interface between chemistry and biology. Our faculty will be actively engaged in these activities and provide valuable feedback to students in guiding their research projects.
Meet the Program Director
“Through a variety of training activities and interactions with fellow colleagues and faculty, students in the Biological Chemistry Graduate Program experience and learn how to do good science.”
Glen Liszczak, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
See Dr. Liszczak’s Full Message
Contact the Graduate School
Arnaldo Diaz Vazquez, Ph.D.
Associate Dean
arnaldo.diazvazquez@utsouthwestern.edu
Phone: 214-648-2527
