The purpose of the oral examination is not to evaluate the proposal per se, but to decide the student's readiness to begin research training by testing knowledge of relevant scientific topics and pertinent literature. Topics include biochemistry, including structure and metabolism of major classes of molecules of biological occurrence, enzymology, and molecular biology. Topics include structure and function of biological membranes, membrane transport, cellular organelles, protein transport and processing, nuclear structure, the cytoskeleton, and mechanisms of cellular transformation. Topics include the history of molecular biology with emphasis on major contributions, including DNA structure and replication, transcription, translation, bacterial genetics, eukaryotic genetics, recombinant DNA techniques, and viral replication. The literature-based format uses research done in many model systems and highlights where the work influences on human disease, and, in particular, cancer.
Students synthesize an appropriate hypothesis based on current research in the field.
Advanced course for graduate students majoring in molecular biology and genetics. These laboratory experiences provide students with knowledge of research techniques in molecular and cell biology and help students select research advisers and concentration areas before the third semester. A permission slip from the program director or instructor is necessary to enroll in this course.