General Information
The Department of Biochemistry offers programs leading to the degrees of Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy. Both require the completion of a research program and the preparation of a thesis.
The Department of Biochemistry strives to train scientists with both a broad knowledge of the disciplines of biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology. It also strives to develop critical and creative scholars who can communicate effectively.
The Department provides a world-class training environment in a broad range of topics.
The Department of Biochemistry is the primary home of the Groups on Membrane Protein Research, Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, and the Signal Transduction Research Group. Many members of the Department are active in the Centre for prion and protein folding diseases, the Cardiovascular Research Centre (CVRC), the Alberta Diabetes Institute, the Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, the Women and Childrens Health Research Institute (WCHRI), and International Research Training Group (IRTG) in Membrane protein diseases.
The Department of Biochemistry is endowed with state-of-the art equipment and support facilities. Access to all major techniques utilized in modern biochemical, biophysical and molecular biological research is available to faculty, postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. The Department is also home to the National High Field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Centre (NANUC).
Entrance Requirements
The Department accepts applicants with a four-year baccalaureate degree, with a grade point average of 3.3 or greater on the 4-point letter grading system, or its equivalent from an academic institution recognized by the University of Alberta.
Applicants with degrees in a language other than English must demonstrate English language proficiency (see English Language Requirement ). The minimum acceptable scores are TOEFL 600 (paper-based) or 100 (internet-based) or IELTS overall band score of 6.5 (with at least 5 on each academic test band).
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance in the form of graduate assistantships is usually available for students that are admitted to the program. Exceptionally qualified applicants may be nominated for University of Alberta entrance scholarships. Students are encouraged to apply for competitive student awards.