Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, MS
Join our renowned faculty in conducting high impact, fundamental research at the cutting edge of the molecular and cellular biological sciences. Our MS in Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology gives graduate students access to opportunities for collaborations that span multiple disciplines and sets them up for continued success after graduation.
Program Overview
The Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology MS program prepares students to become expert experimental researchers by honing hands-on laboratory skills.
Although our program doesn’t offer formal concentrations, students can focus on research areas such as biophysics or biochemistry, plant biology, genetics and genomics, and so much more. You’ll gain hands-on, practical skills in experimental design, data analysis, and electron microscopy, all while taking courses that emphasize experiential learning through lectures, seminars, and research opportunities.
A critical component of the BCMB graduate program is identifying a research laboratory that aligns with your interests. During their first year, students complete laboratory rotations that allow them to explore multiple research areas before selecting a dissertation advisor and research program.
Our program is ideal for students who want to be at the cutting-edge of tools and technologies in cellular and molecular biology, genomics, and microscopic imaging.
PhD and Concurrent Master’s Degree
Our program currently offers PhD students the opportunity to complete a concurrent master’s degree as part of their coursework. That means you will receive a master’s degree in biochemistry and cellular and molecular biology (BCMB) as progress towards your PhD after completing 30 hours of coursework, an exam, and publishing a manuscript in a major scientific academic journal. This opportunity not only accelerates your academic journey but also sets you apart in the job market and beyond.
Why Study Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology?
A Master of Science in Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville provides exceptional opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research.
BCMB students have access to outstanding research infrastructure and facilities, including the Bioanalytical Resource Facility, Biological and Small Molecular Mass Spectrometry Core, Genomics Core, Next-Generation Sequencing Facility, and the Advanced Microscopy and Imaging Center. Students also benefit from extensive collaborations across the University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
BCMB faculty also participate in a variety of interdisciplinary research centers and partnerships, including the Genome Science and Technology Program, Tennessee Plant Research Center, Neuroscience Network of East Tennessee Research Center (NeuroNET), and the UT/ORNL Center for Molecular Biophysics. These collaborations provide exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary research, advanced training, and access to world-class scientific expertise and facilities.
At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville you’ll learn to advance your own research and teaching skills while preparing for an exceptional career.
What Can You Do with an MS in Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology After Graduation?
The Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology program is a rigorous, advanced program where students learn how to be critical thinkers and versatile experimentalists, whether it be in biochemistry, behavior, systems biology, and more. With various research experiences, opportunities to learn the newest and most advanced computer and imaging methods, and coursework to give you knowledge on tools/approaches to researching the structures and assemblies of organisms, the BCMB program trains students to be high-level researchers and thinkers.
Many of our BCMB alumni now hold positions as faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, industry scientists, science policy fellows, science communicators, and research and academic administrators in universities, government agencies, and the private sector.
The ability to communicate clearly, experience in labs and research, and knowledge in computers and mathematics will prepare you for a successful career in whatever discipline you may be passionate about.
Featured Courses
BCMB 511 Advanced Protein Chemistry and Cellular Biology
This course will focus on cellular structure and function at molecular and supramolecular level in progression: protein structure and function; membrane structure and function; bioenergetics and membrane proteins.
BCMB 515 Experimental Techniques I
This course serves as an introduction to key experimental and computational methodologies and instrumentation in biochemistry, molecular biology and cell biology with a focus on experimental design and data analysis. Students will learn how to choose appropriate experimental and/or analytical approaches to biological problems; design cellular, molecular, biochemical, and genomics experiments with appropriate controls; interpret quantitative results with appropriate visualization and statistical analyses; understand potential pitfalls in experimental design and approaches to troubleshooting.
BCMB 512 Advanced Molecular Biology
Students will learn regulation of nucleic acid expression and protein activity. Topics covered include nucleic acid structure and function; replication and repair of nucleic acids; gene expression; protein synthesis; post-translational protein modification; mitosis and meiosis; cell cycle and cell growth.
BCMB 603 Graduate Research Colloquium
Students will attend seminars and lectures dealing with current advances in fields of biochemical and biophysical methods. Mechanisms of enzyme catalysis, gene expression, membrane structure and function, metabolic regulation, physical biochemistry, molecular genetics, cell biology, neurobiology, and related topics. Topics posted in advance. Required every semester in residence.
Complementary Majors, Minors, and Certificates
Looking to enhance your academic experience and expertise? Considering pursuing one of the following programs in addition to your primary field of study.
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