About the Molecular Biology Graduate Program
As a molecular biology graduate student, you’ll receive an advanced education in molecular biology as well as interdisciplinary training in cutting-edge lab techniques and computational tools.
Our faculty regularly publish in leading high-impact journals and complete research funded by federal agencies. You will conduct specialized research alongside our faculty members as part of your degree.
Outside the classroom, students are exposed to a variety of biological topics, thanks to weekly seminars and visiting speakers.
The master's program in molecular biology includes advanced coursework in molecular sciences with a focus on a research component, which prepares student for a doctorate program, research, employment or other postgraduate programs.
Like the master's program, the Ph.D. program in molecular biology is research-intensive with advanced courses and giving student the opportunity to conduct an extensive laboratory research project in molecular and cellular biology or microbiological research areas.
Full Curriculum & Course Lists
Admission to the master’s or Ph.D. in molecular biology requires support from at least one molecular biology faculty member who is willing to serve as the student’s advisor. Once you are accepted into the faculty member’s lab, you may apply to the program.
An application to the Ph.D. in molecular biology must include a CV, a 2-page statement of research interests and career plans, contact information for three references, prior transcripts and GRE scores. Those with an M.S. degree may be exempt from the GRE score requirement.
What can you do with a molecular biology degree?
A Ph.D. or master’s degree in molecular biology prepares you for a high-impact career, regardless of the industry you choose. Many of our graduates conduct postdoctoral fellowships at leading research institutes, while others complete medical training. In addition to these paths, many of our alumni pursue research positions at biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.
Our alumni pursue additional education, as well as research and teaching positions, at a number of top universities. These institutions include:
- University of Alberta
- MIT
- Yale University
- University of California, Berkeley
- Harvard University
- University of California San Diego
- Rice University
- University of Utah
- Chromatin dynamics and transcription through the nucleosomes
- Complex macromolecular structures
- Gene regulatory networks
- Targeted genome editing
- Molecular cloning
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
- Optical and electron microscopy
- Plant breeding
- Genome sequence analysis
Molecular Biology Research Happening At UW
At the University of Wyoming, researchers Silvia Sanchez-Martinez and Thomas Boothby are studying unique proteins from tardigrades, which are tiny, nearly indestructible organisms known as "water bears." These proteins help tardigrades survive extreme conditions by forming protective gels inside their cells. The Boothby Lab is working to apply this discovery to preserve blood and organs without refrigeration and protect astronauts’ health in space.
