Biochemistry, PhD
Biochemistry, Biofuels, Computational, DNA, Diagnostics, Medical Research, Nanotechnology, Science, Solar, analytical, approved for STEM-OPT extension, biological, biophysics, chemistry, molecular, sustainability
Learn to solve biological problems with molecular tools. Become successful in an increasingly postdisciplinary scientific world through this program's distinct emphasis on structure, properties and synthesis from the molecular perspective in a biological context. You'll be able to tackle complex challenges in and outside the lab.
The Doctor of Philosophy program in biochemistry through the School of Molecular Sciences provides students with the training they need to solve biological problems at the molecular scale and to be successful, independent scientists who can address challenging societal issues.
Students who earn a doctoral degree in biochemistry are fully trained in all fundamental aspects of the discipline. Most also choose to join transdisciplinary teams that work on larger, mission-based contemporary problems in areas such as:
- biogeochemistry
- energy and sustainability
- fundamental chemical biology
- materials and nanoscience
- medicine and health
- structure function and dynamics
Students should visit the prospective student webpage to learn more about this doctoral program and the advanced transdisciplinary research being conducted in the School of Molecular Sciences.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation
six graduate-level courses (12-18 credit hours)
enrollment in a BCH 501/CHM 501 seminar (8 credit hours)
BCH 792 Research (46-52 credit hours)
BCH 799 Dissertation (12 credit hours)
Additional Curriculum Information
The program consists of coursework and seminars selected by the student in consultation with the student's supervisory committee and based on the student's area of research. Qualifying exams consisting of a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam and a prospectus are required to advance to candidacy. Students must successfully defend their dissertation during a public final oral defense. Students must also maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") or higher.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
U.S. applicants | International applicants | English proficiency
Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program.
All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- personal statement
- three letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.
In addition to the admission application, applicants must complete an online supplemental application to the School of Molecular Sciences. The supplemental application is available 24 to 48 hours after submission of the admission application. The personal statement and contact information for the letters of recommendation are submitted as part of the supplemental application. Information about the supplemental application can be found on the department's website. Applications that do not have a supplemental application are not reviewed.
| Session | Modality | Deadline | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session A/C | In Person | 01/01 | Final |
| Session A/C | In Person | 12/15 | Priority |
The doctoral program in biochemistry prepares students for professional careers in industry, government and academia. Professionals with knowledge achieved in pursuit of a graduate degree in biochemistry have opportunities in five general areas:
- academia (high school and higher education)
- entrepreneurship (consulting, startups)
- government (research, policy)
- industry (research and development, quality control)
- nonprofit (policy, public education)
In addition to specialized technical skills, graduates have high-demand skills such as critical thinking, teamwork and collaboration, time management and many others.
Some career examples include:
- drug discovery scientist
- government scientist
- pharmacology scientist
- research and development scientist
- research group leader
- science consultant
- university professor
The American Chemical Society provides helpful resources and a comprehensive list of possible careers on its website at https://www.acs.org/careers/chemical-sciences.html.
School of Molecular Sciences
|
PSD 104
smsgrad@asu.edu
480-965-4664
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
