Ph.D. Program
The Ph.D. program in the Department of Biochemistry at Virginia Tech prepares students for careers as independent researchers in biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, molecular microbiology, biotechnology, and related areas.
Structure of the Ph.D. Program
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in the Department of Biochemistry emphasizes mentored dissertation research toward the goal of training students to become capable, ethical, independent researchers. Coursework is completed within two years, with the remaining time spent engaging in research.
The first year in the program is spent conducting research rotations and engaging in didactic coursework, journal clubs, and seminars. More information on classes can be found here. In the fall, incoming students spend approximately one month in each of three faculty member’s laboratories and choose their dissertation advisor in late November. Students begin their dissertation work in December of the first year. Students must pass a Qualifying Examination at the conclusion of the spring semester of the first year.
The second year in the program is spent conducting research under the mentorship of a faculty advisor and finishing coursework. Students must pass a Preliminary Examination at the conclusion of the spring semester of the second year.
The remaining time in the program is spent attending journal clubs and seminars, and completing their dissertation research.
Graduates of our program are employed in industrial, academic, and government positions.
Requirements for Ph.D. Completion
- Advanced coursework (90 total credits, 30 of which are graded)
- Qualifying exam consisting of a written review article and oral presentation (first year)
- Preliminary exam consisting of a written and oral defense of your dissertation project (second year)
- Two seminar presentations
- Two semesters of serving as a graduate teaching assistant
- Annual committee meetings
- Written dissertation and oral dissertation defense to be awarded a degree