Structural Biology PhD draft

Program Overview

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The Structural Biology PhD program at the University at Buffalo offers a comprehensive education in the structure, function, and dynamics of biological macromolecules. Students gain expertise in various structural biology techniques, including protein production, purification, crystallization, X-ray diffraction crystallography, and computational structural modeling. The program prepares graduates for careers in academic research, industry, or government agencies focused on structural biology.

Program Outline

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Structural Biology PhD at the University at Buffalo

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Degree Overview:

The Structural Biology PhD program at the University at Buffalo (UB) delves into the intricate relationship between biological form and function, focusing on the three-dimensional atomic architecture of biological macromolecules. The program is renowned for its comprehensive approach, covering the principles and hands-on practice of various structural biology techniques like protein production, purification, crystallization, X-ray diffraction crystallography, and computational structural modeling.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with a profound understanding of the structure, function, and dynamics of biological macromolecules at the atomic level.
• Cultivate in-depth expertise in diverse structural biology techniques, encompassing protein production, purification, crystallization, X-ray diffraction crystallography, and computational structural modeling.
• Foster the ability to independently design, execute, and analyze structural biology experiments.
• Develop the capacity to critically evaluate and interpret data generated from structural biology studies.
• Nurture effective communication skills for effectively disseminating research findings through written and oral presentations.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in academic research, industry, or government agencies focused on structural biology.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• The program's curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
• Protein structure and function
• X-ray crystallography
• Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy
• Electron microscopy
• Computational structural biology
• Bioinformatics
• Structural vaccinology
• Biomolecular simulations

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Program Structure:

• The program consists of coursework, laboratory rotations, a qualifying exam, a dissertation proposal defense, and dissertation research.
• Coursework: Students complete 72 credit hours of coursework, including core courses and electives.
• Laboratory Rotations: Students participate in three laboratory rotations, allowing them to experience different research areas and techniques.
• Qualifying Exam: Students take a qualifying exam to assess their understanding of the core concepts in structural biology.
• Dissertation Proposal Defense: Students defend their dissertation proposal, outlining their research project.
• Dissertation Research: Students conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty advisor, culminating in a dissertation.

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Course Schedule:

• The course schedule is available on the UB website.

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Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• Core Courses:
• Structural Biology I and II
• X-ray Crystallography
• NMR Spectroscopy
• Biomolecular Simulations
• Elective Courses:
• Structural vaccinology
• Bioinformatics
• Advanced Topics in Structural Biology

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Assessment:

Assessment methods in the program include:

• Coursework: Students are assessed through exams, assignments, and presentations.
• Qualifying exam: Students must pass a written and oral qualifying exam to advance to candidacy.
• Dissertation research: Students are assessed through their dissertation proposal defense, research progress reports, and dissertation defense.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, laboratory rotations, and research mentorship.
• Lectures: Students attend lectures taught by faculty experts in structural biology.
• Seminars: Students participate in seminars to discuss current research findings and engage in critical analysis.
• Laboratory Rotations: Students gain hands-on experience in research labs under the guidance of faculty mentors.
• Research Mentorship: Students receive individualized mentorship from faculty advisors throughout their dissertation research.

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Faculty:

• The program is led by a team of distinguished faculty with expertise in various areas of structural biology.
• Faculty research areas include:
• Protein structure and function
• X-ray crystallography
• NMR spectroscopy
• Electron microscopy
• Computational structural biology
• Bioinformatics
• Structural vaccinology

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Academic research positions at universities or research institutions
• Research and development positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies
• Government agencies involved in structural biology research

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities, including:
• Postdoctoral research positions
• Faculty positions at universities or research institutions
• Research scientist positions in industry
• Government research scientist positions

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Career Outcomes:

• The program has a strong track record of placing graduates in prestigious positions across academia, industry, and government agencies.
• Recent graduates have secured positions at:
• Harvard Medical School
• Stanford University
• Genentech
• Bristol-Myers Squibb
• National Institutes of Health

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Other:

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Program Highlights:

• The program is housed within the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB, providing access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.
• The program offers a strong emphasis on research, with students actively engaged in cutting-edge research projects.
• The program benefits from a diverse and collaborative faculty, fostering a supportive and stimulating learning environment.

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Program Accreditation:

• The program is accredited by the New York State Education Department (SED).

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International Students:

• International students are welcome to apply to the program.