Program Overview

Introduction to the Molecular Biology and Genetics Program

The Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, also known as life sciences, is a fundamental science that emphasizes practice over other basic disciplines. This program examines the structures and functions of all organisms, their relationships with each other and their environment, with the aim of understanding life.

History of the Program

Molecular Biology and Genetics education at METU began in 1970 as a Modern Biology Graduate Program, led by J. Watson, who discovered the model of DNA and won the Nobel Prize. Following the establishment of research and education laboratories and the gathering of a sufficient number of faculty members, the Department of Biological Sciences has been providing education in the field of Molecular Biology and Genetics as undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs since 1975.

Program Overview

The METU Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, with its 24 faculty members and 35 research assistants, provides dynamic education and research in various fields, including:

• Plant Biology
• Biostatistics
• Biochemistry
• Biotechnology
• Ecology
• Evolution
• Physiology
• Genetics
• Microbiology
• Biodiversity-Conservation Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Structural Biology
• Molecular Genetics
  • Students are given the opportunity to diversify and enrich their education programs with elective and extra-departmental courses.

Research Areas

In the METU Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, current research that supports education continues in the research laboratories, covering areas such as:

• Plant Sciences
• Biochemistry
• Biomaterial
• Ecological Genetics
• Cancer Biology
• Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology
• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Biophysics
• Molecular Genetics
• Neurobiology
• Plant-Animal Systematics
• Conservation Biology
• Drug Development-Drug Metabolism

Education

Modern education is given in all branches of Molecular Biology and Genetics, starting from the molecular level to the ecosystem level. The Department of Biological Sciences offers a range of courses in the Molecular Biology and Genetics Program, providing students with a comprehensive education in the field.