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.
For more information: https://www.med.upenn.edu/bmbgrad/
Curriculum
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | ||
| BIOM 6000 | Cell Biology | 1 |
| BBCB 5080 | Macromolecular Biophysics: Principles and Methods | 1 |
| BBCB 5100 | Data Analysis and Scientific Inference | 1 |
| BBCB 5090 | Structural and Mechanistic Biochemistry | 1 |
| BBCB 7050 | Candidacy Exam Preparation Course | 0.5 |
| Select Four Electives | 4 | |
| Research | 7.5 | |
| Laboratory Rotation | ||
| Pre-Dissertation Research | ||
| Dissertation Research | ||
| Total Course Units | 16 | |
University PhD Benchmarks
In addition to Program requirements, the following milestones must be completed:
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Evaluation | ||
| Candidacy Examination | ||
| Dissertation Defense/Oral Exam | ||
| Dissertation Deposit | ||
For more information view the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2025 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.