Program Overview

Graduate Certificate in Chemical Biology

The Certificate Program in Chemical Biology focuses on developing molecular tools necessary to probe cellular systems and explore new questions. This program is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the key concepts and methods of the interdisciplinary field of Chemical Biology.

About the Program

At the heart of the Certificate Program in Chemical Biology is an integrated academic curriculum that provides participating students with a working knowledge of the key concepts and methods of the interdisciplinary field of Chemical Biology. Students with strong chemical or biological backgrounds will reap the benefits of collaborative exposure to modern techniques and theories in disciplines across the chemical biology interface.

• Follow a defined course sequence designed to provide a working knowledge across the chemical biology interface.
  • The curriculum includes a flagship course defining the principles and practice of chemical biology.
  • A fundamental part of the curriculum is the seminar course entitled "Careers in the Biomedical Sciences," which highlights opportunities for doctoral graduates inside and outside academia and industry.
• Organize and participate in the annual Biomedical Sciences Symposium.
  • This symposium includes oral presentations by the students on their research and a lecture by an internationally recognized keynote speaker in a research area at the chemistry/biology interface.
  • The students also lead an afternoon interdisciplinary poster session that is open to all students.

Admission to Graduate Studies

Admission Requirements

• All applicants must meet the requirements outlined in the Admission to Graduate Study policy.
• Bachelor’s degree: A copy of official transcripts showing proof of a bachelor's degree (and any post-bachelor’s coursework or degrees) from a regionally accredited institution, or a foreign university with equivalent bachelor's degree requirements is required.
• English proficiency: Proof of English proficiency for non-native or non-native-like English speakers is required.

The Certificate Program is open to all graduate students at KU. Underrepresented minority students and students with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Certificate Requirements

Course requirements: Students must complete 5 courses for a total of 14-17 graduate credit hours.

• One introductory course:
  • BIOL 807: Graduate Molecular Biosciences
  • CHEM 720: Fundamentals and Methods of Analytical Chemistry
  • CHEM 760: Introduction to Chemistry in Biology
  • MDCM 710: Chemistry of Drug Action I
  • PHCH 862: Physical Chemistry of Solutions, Solids and Surfaces
• One Topics Survey Course:
  • BIOL/CHEM/MDCM/PHCH 860: Principles and Practice of Chemical Biology
• 1 hour, seminar; taken 2 semesters:
  • BIOL/CHEM/PHCH 816: Careers in the Biomedical Sciences
• One elective in chemical biology:
  • Course must be outside the student's home department and support dissertation research or career development.
  • The elective course should be approved by the program directors.
• Ethics and Safety Training:
  • BIOL/CHEM/MDCM/PHCH 817: Rigor, Reproducibility and Responsible Conduct in Research

At the completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Understand fundamental principles in biology and chemistry at a graduate level.
• Understand the role of scientists in the responsible conduct of research.
• Develop an individual career plan and assessment of possible career paths.