Biochemistry and Applied Bioinformatics, MS

Overview

The Biochemistry and Applied Bioinformatics, MS program is a two-year thesis-requiring program designed to improve the academic credentials and scientific research experience of graduates. The program emphasizes student development in six areas: coursework, laboratory skills, bioinformatic analysis, independent thought, presentation skills, and personal growth.

Program Structure

• The program is divided into two years:
  • Year one: Students acquire an academic foundation in biochemistry and bioinformatics.
  • Year two: Students specialize in a sub-field and perform bench or bioinformatic research toward the master’s thesis.

Coursework

• Students take Graduate Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Biostatistics, and Bioinformatics courses with a strong emphasis on research application of biochemical, molecular, and bioinformatic knowledge.
• Bioinformatics training focuses on skills in the application of diverse tools and databases addressing genomics, gene expression, proteomics, metabolism, and protein structure, function, and drug binding.
• Courses are taken along with first-year PhD students at the Tulane School of Medicine.
• Additional courses include:
  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Seminar series
  • Biochemistry Workshop
  • Academic Writing and Critique

Research

• In year two, students perform bench or bioinformatic research toward the master’s thesis under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
• Examples of high-level bioinformatics analysis include:
  • Construction of mutational signatures from genome-sequencing data
  • Tumor pathological staging on the basis of gene expression
  • Immunological epitope mapping by analysis of protein conformational stability
  • In-silico drug-screening for protein binding

Requirements

• Students must take 30 credit hours of coursework by the end of the spring semester in year two.
• Students must complete and defend a master’s thesis by the end of the summer in year two.
• Thesis research may commence at the beginning of year one, upon formation of the advisory committee.
• Students are expected to devote full time to research after the spring semester of year one, and until the thesis defense in the summer of year two.

Course List

• Year 1, Fall:
  • Required Courses:
    • GBCH 6010: Graduate Biochemistry (4 credits)
    • BMSP 6070: Advanced Cell Biology (3 credits)
    • GBCH 6020: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Seminar (1 credit)
    • BMSP 7110: Workshop (1 credit)
    • INTD 6010: Responsible Conduct of Research (0 credits)
    • GBCH 7230: Introduction to Bioinformatics (3 credits)
    • GBCH 7110: Selected Topics (1-4 credits)
• Year 1, Spring:
  • Required Courses:
    • GBCH 7250: Biomedical Statistics and Data Analysis (2 credits)
    • GBCH 7100: Seminar (1 credit)
    • BMSP 7110: Workshop (1 credit)
    • GBCH 7170: Principles of Genetics (4 credits)
    • GBCH 7330: Advanced Bioinformatics (3 credits)
  • Electives:
    • GBCH 7550: Med Biochem Grand Rounds Exter
    • GBCH 6110: Basic Medical Biochemistry
    • GBCH 7120: Special Problems
• Year 2, Fall:
  • Required Courses:
    • GBCH 6020: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Seminar (1 credit)
    • BMSP 7110: Workshop (1 credit)
    • BIMI 6200: Introduction to Data Science for Biomedical Informatics (3 credits)
  • Electives:
    • GBCH 7560: Academic Writing & Critique
    • GBCH 7130: Selected Topics
    • GBCH 7150: Tutorial Topics
• Year 2, Spring:
  • Required Courses:
    • GBCH 6020: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Seminar (1 credit)
    • BMSP 7110: Workshop (1 credit)
  • Electives:
    • GBCH 7120: Special Problems
    • GBCH 7160: Tutorial Topics

Program String and Field of Study

• MDMS_GR, BCAB

Tulane University

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Overview:

Tulane University is a private research university located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to community engagement. Tulane's motto, "non sibi sed suis," translates to "not for oneself, but for one's own," reflecting the university's emphasis on service and contributing to the betterment of society.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Tulane offers a diverse and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, sports, and arts programs. The university also emphasizes community engagement, encouraging students to get involved in local initiatives and contribute to the city of New Orleans.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong academic programs:

Tulane boasts a wide array of majors and minors, providing students with a diverse range of academic options.

Interdisciplinary approach:

The university encourages interdisciplinary learning through its core curriculum and TIDES (Tulane Interdisciplinary Experience Seminar) program.

Vibrant campus life:

Tulane offers a lively campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement and social interaction.

Location in New Orleans:

Students have access to the rich culture, history, and unique experiences of New Orleans, fostering a dynamic and enriching learning environment.

Commitment to community:

Tulane emphasizes community engagement, encouraging students to contribute to the city and its surrounding areas.

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Academic Programs:

Tulane offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Sciences:

Humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and fine arts.

Engineering:

Chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

Business:

Management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

Law:

Juris Doctor (JD) and other legal programs.

Medicine:

MD and other medical programs.

Public Health:

MPH and other public health programs.

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Other:

Tulane University has a significant economic impact on the New Orleans area, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing to local and regional growth. The university also has a strong commitment to research, with a focus on areas such as health and bioinnovation, global studies, and environmental sustainability.