The program features courses in various areas of biochemistry and molecular biology as well as weekly seminars and journal clubs, which emphasize rapidly advancing areas of research while offering training in communication skills. Research programs in the department are diverse and include the areas of metabolic regulation, structure-function of macromolecules, RNA processing, regulation of gene expression, molecular endocrinology, cell signaling, connective tissue biology, cholesterol and lipoprotein metabolism, isoprene metabolism, growth factor biology, molecular oncology, molecular immunology, bioenergetics, and metalloenzymes. The curriculum is designed to allow completion of all required core courses in the first two years. Following course work, the student must pass the comprehensive qualifying examination to be admitted to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. The Ph.D. is awarded upon successful completion and oral defense of a dissertation describing original research conducted by the student.
Students usually complete the Ph.D. within four or five years.
Those who enter the program with a master's degree generally finish in less time. The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is housed in the Medical Center complex on the main Tampa campus of the University of South Florida. The Medical Center complex was constructed in 1974 and a new wing was opened in 1998. All of the modern equipment necessary to carry out highly competitive research is available. Facilities and training opportunities are also available in the Shriners Hospital, Moffit Cancer Center, VA Medical Center, Tampa General Hospital, and All Children's Hospital.