In addition to specialized training acquired during their thesis work, graduates also acquire a broad foundation in medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and biochemistry, which is important in the rapidly evolving, multidisciplinary biomedical arena. One major area of interest is the elucidation of protein and small ligand structure and function using computational methods as well as NMR, mass spectroscopy, and other biophysical techniques. Issues of biomedical importance include elucidation of enzyme attributes that modulate drug metabolite profiles, rates of reaction, and susceptibility to inhibition. Further aspects include functional consequences of phenotypic and genotypic diversity in the population and the role of biotransformation processes in toxification and detoxification reactions. The primary mission of the program is to ensure that students possess a firm foundation in medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and biochemistry, and ultimately are able to provide an understanding and rationale at the molecular level for events that occur at the biological level.
Most students proceed directly to the doctoral degree program.
Satisfactory completion of cumulative examinations and at least two quarters of teaching experience are requirements for the doctoral degree. Most students proceed directly to the doctoral degree program. Participation in a cumulative examination process and at least two quarters of teaching experience are additional requirements for the doctoral program. Satisfactory completion of cumulative examination requirements are necessary to work for the Ph.D. degree. Admission Requirements Students who intend to work toward the Doctor of Philosophy degree must apply for admission to the Graduate School and meet the requirements outlined in the Graduate Study section of this catalog.