Ohio State Biochemistry Program – Doctor of Philosophy

Program Overview

The Ohio State Biochemistry Program (OSBP) is an interdisciplinary graduate program that trains students to investigate the biochemical basis of life and disease. Students earn a PhD in Biochemistry after conducting original research in world-class laboratories. The program is highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their coursework and research experiences to their individual interests. Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in academia, industry, and government.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview:
The Ohio State Biochemistry Program (OSBP) is an interdisciplinary graduate program that trains students to investigate the biochemical basis of life and disease. Students earn a PhD in Biochemistry after conducting original research in world-class laboratories.
• Objectives:
The OSBP aims to provide students with:
• -A comprehensive understanding of the biochemical principles underlying life and disease
• -Expertise in conducting original research in biochemistry
• -Skills in presenting and communicating scientific findings
• -The ability to think critically and solve complex problems
• Description:
The OSBP is highly flexible and allows students to tailor their coursework and research experiences to their individual interests. Students can choose from a wide range of courses in biochemistry, chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. They also have the opportunity to rotate through multiple research laboratories before selecting a permanent advisor.

Outline:

• Content:
The OSBP covers a broad range of topics in biochemistry, including:
• -Chemical biology and enzymology
• -Molecular basis of disease
• -Molecular biology and molecular genetics
• -Molecular biophysics and structural biology
• Structure:
The OSBP is a two-year program that consists of coursework, research, and a dissertation. Students typically take two to three semesters of coursework before beginning their research. The research component of the program is typically completed in three to four years.
• Course Schedule:
The OSBP offers a variety of courses in biochemistry, including:
• -Biochemistry I and II
• -Molecular Biology
• -Cell Biology
• -Protein Structure and Function
• -Enzymology
• -Metabolism
• -Molecular Genetics
• -Bioinformatics

Assessment:

• Methods:
Students in the OSBP are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
• -Written exams
• -Oral presentations
• -Research proposals
• -Dissertation defense
• Criteria:
Students are evaluated on their:
• -Knowledge of biochemistry
• -Research skills
• -Communication skills
• -Critical thinking skills

Teaching:

• Methods:
The OSBP uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
• -Lectures
• -Discussions
• -Laboratory experiments
• -Computer simulations
• Faculty:
The OSBP has a faculty of over 100 preceptors who are experts in a wide range of biochemical disciplines.
• Unique Approaches:
The OSBP offers a number of unique approaches to teaching biochemistry, including:
• -A strong emphasis on research
• -Opportunities for students to rotate through multiple research laboratories
• -A seminar series that brings in world-renowned speakers
• -A dedicated career services office

Careers:

• Paths:
Graduates of the OSBP are prepared for a variety of careers in academia, industry, and government.
• Opportunities:
Graduates may find employment as:
• -Research scientists
• -Professors
• -Science writers
• -Patent attorneys
• -Science policy analysts
• Outcomes:
Graduates of the OSBP have a high success rate in obtaining employment in their chosen field. Many graduates go on to successful careers in academia, industry, and government.