MSc in Chemistry and Chemical Biology - Biophysical in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

The Master of Science program requires completing 30 credit hours of coursework. While some students may finish within one academic year, most typically take longer. Given the varied academic backgrounds and career objectives of each candidate, we expect considerable diversity in study plans and avoid imposing strict course prerequisites. However, we generally expect most credits to be earned through advanced chemistry and related disciplines. Your personalized curriculum will be tailored to your interests through discussions with the M.S. Graduate Program Director, potentially incorporating courses from across Cornell University.

This program caters to individuals seeking advanced training in the chemical sciences, aiming to cultivate skills in critical analysis, independent research, and teaching. Research-focused students must demonstrate initiative by designing and pursuing their own projects, with the M.S. degree granted upon completing a research project documented in an archival thesis submitted to both the student's committee and the Graduate School. First-year students typically enroll in Chem 5110 during fall semester, which introduces diverse chemical research methodologies available within our department and university-wide.

Biophysical chemistry examines biological molecules using physics and physical chemistry principles. Cornell researchers employ experimental and computational approaches to investigate biological macromolecules and complexes, studying structure, dynamics, interactions, and functionality. This includes exploring protein folding, dynamics, and binding through theoretical and experimental methods. Structural analysis of bioactive compounds like anti-cancer drugs and protein complexes is conducted via X-ray crystallography. Techniques such as fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy analyze cell surface receptors and lipids involved in immune responses and cancer development. Additional methods include laser photolysis for studying electron transfer and nerve cell receptors, along with electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy for membrane dynamics and protein-lipid interaction research.