Graduate Program Overview

The Department Biochemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder is internationally recognized for its research and education. As part of a commitment to continuing this tradition of excellence, the department provides a graduate program that integrates opportunities for cutting-edge research and study. Admission to the graduate program is competitive and successful completion of degree requirements, including preparation of thesis research, results in the award of a Ph.D. in Biochemistry.

Program Details

Highlights

A Focus on Student Success

The Biochemistry Ph.D. program is committed to student success. Ph.D. candidates meet annually with their dissertation committee and aim to complete their degree in 5 years.

Department Retreat

The Department of Biochemistry holds an annual retreat each fall to greet incoming graduate students, present exciting new science from the department, and build a stronger community. Check out photos and details of past retreats!

Seminar Series

The Department of Biochemistry invites professors and scientists from other universities and institutes to present seminars at the University of Colorado Boulder throughout the academic year. These seminars provide an opportunity for faculty and students to learn about exciting current research.

Presentations and Supergroups

Supergroups centered on specific scientific interests or disciplines meet monthly, providing a venue for trainee presentations and discussion.

Excellent Core Facilities

The Biochemistry Department houses a wide array of instruments that are managed and maintained by skilled professionals. In addition, there is a large network of shared instruments and core facilities from across the university that are available to students and provide specialized training.

Interdisciplinary Training Programs

Graduate students in the Department of Biochemistry have the opportunity to participate in a variety of interdisciplinary training programs from across the university. 

Vibrant Research Environment

The department is home to 22 tenure-track and research faculty with well-funded and exciting research programs. In 2022, labs in the department had been awarded over $39 million in external funding.

Flexibility in Thesis Lab

Biochemistry Ph.D. students can perform their dissertation research with investigators from across the University, including those outside of the Biochemistry Department.

Alumni Network

Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Biochemistry join a network of scientists, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and influential faculty.

Need Help?

For questions about the graduate program, contact:

Why Boulder?

Boulder is one of the happiest (National Geographic), healthiest (Gallup), and smartest (Forbes) cities in America. Just ~25 miles from Denver and at the foot of Colorado's picturesque Front Range mountains, the location cannot be beat. Boulder boasts one of the highest densities for high-tech startup companies (Kauffman Foundation), including a vibrant and growing hub for biotech. What makes Boulder so special? Come find out!

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Why Biochemistry?

The Biochemistry Department is focused on training. As a member of our community, Ph.D. students have access to world-class core facilities and a large number of well-funded research labs. We are proud of our campus-wide collaborative research environment. Our graduates go on to succeed in a wide variety of careers and belong to a growing network of successful alumni.

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