PhD in Biochemistry in Seattle United States | University of Washington

Our applicants generally possess excellent academic backgrounds from their undergraduate studies, along with hands-on lab experience and proven experimental abilities. We welcome students from diverse undergraduate disciplines, as contemporary biochemistry requires multidisciplinary expertise. Typically, applicants have taken foundational courses in calculus, physics, organic chemistry, biochemistry, or advanced quantitative sciences like physical chemistry. The graduate program's first year includes structured lectures, three intensive three-month lab rotations, and seminar courses covering current topics from protein studies to cellular biology. These courses foster analytical skills through close faculty interaction. Students can customize their coursework to specialize in areas like macromolecular studies, biochemistry, or cellular and developmental biology. During the first year, students select a thesis advisor, project, and form a guidance committee of three to five faculty members. The second and third years focus primarily on thesis research, with optional supplementary courses. Teaching is a vital component of our program, so all graduate students assist in teaching three different quarter-length courses. Most students complete their thesis research and writing by their fifth year. For comprehensive details about our graduate curriculum, please refer to the Graduate Program Guidelines section.