Program Overview

Introduction to the Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics graduate option is an interdisciplinary program that seeks to understand the chemistry of life. It is situated at the interface of biology, chemistry, and physics, studying the atomic structure and folding of biopolymers, their interactions with each other and with small molecules, and the roles of particular biopolymers and biopolymer assemblies in cellular physiology.

Program Overview

The program is designed to provide a broad background in biochemistry and biophysics of macromolecules and molecular assemblies, in addition to an appropriate depth of knowledge in the field selected for the Ph.D. thesis research. The goal of the doctoral program is to prepare students to become leading scientists in academia and industry.

Program Requirements

• First Year - Selecting an Advisor and Laboratory Rotations: Students participate in the BMB 202 seminar course and BMB 174, and take five advanced courses for a grade. They choose three laboratories for short research projects, which provide an introduction to different areas of biochemistry.
• Second Year - Candidacy Examination: Students take an oral examination to assess mastery of the field and evaluate research progress. They submit a written research report and an original research proposal in a field outside their chosen field of research.
• Third Year and up to Ph.D. defense - Annual Thesis Advisory Committee Meetings: Students meet annually with their Thesis Advisory Committee to evaluate research progress and get feedback on their experiments and future plans.
• Ph.D. Thesis Defense: All Ph.D. candidates must present their work in a thesis seminar.

Master's Degree

Students are not admitted to work toward the M.S. degree. A terminal M.S. degree may be awarded only in special circumstances, with approval from the Option Representative and a committee of four Caltech faculty.

Seminars

Students attend a wide range of seminars, including weekly informal group seminars and named lectureships. They actively participate in the regularly scheduled BMB seminars by attending BMB202.

Teaching

All students serve as teaching assistants for two quarters, with the first in the first year of residence and the second by the end of the fourth year. This serves an educational purpose and is a component of the stipend.

BMB Handbook

The BMB Handbook is a compilation of information about various aspects of the graduate program, providing more detail than the Institute Catalog. It is intended as a reference source for policies and practices relevant to the program.

Research Areas

The program focuses on understanding the chemistry of life, including the atomic structure and folding of biopolymers, their interactions, and the roles of particular biopolymers and biopolymer assemblies in cellular physiology.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to provide a broad background in biochemistry and biophysics, with an appropriate depth of knowledge in the field selected for the Ph.D. thesis research. Students take advanced courses, participate in laboratory rotations, and engage in original research.

Faculty and Resources

The program is supported by a faculty of renowned experts in biochemistry and molecular biophysics, with access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.

Conclusion

The Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at Caltech offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education, preparing students for careers as leading scientists in academia and industry. With its rigorous curriculum, cutting-edge research opportunities, and distinguished faculty, the program provides an ideal environment for students to explore the chemistry of life and make meaningful contributions to the field.