University of San Diego

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with hands-on laboratory experience and an independent research project. Core topics include molecular and cellular biology, protein structure and function, enzymology, gene regulation and expression, and biophysical methods for studying biomolecules. Students also study modern techniques in genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics, and receive training in experimental design, statistics and scientific communication.

Typical modules and activities include:

• Advanced Biochemistry – metabolism, enzyme kinetics, and regulation at the molecular level.
• Molecular Biology – DNA replication, repair, transcriptional and post-transcriptional control mechanisms.
• Biophysics – physical principles underlying macromolecular structure, thermodynamics and spectroscopy approaches.
• Structural Biology and Protein Chemistry – techniques such as X-ray crystallography, NMR and cryo-EM in structural determination.
• Genomics and Proteomics – high-throughput sequencing, mass spectrometry applications and data analysis.
• Research Rotations and Thesis Research – laboratory rotations with faculty groups followed by an extended independent research project culminating in a written thesis and oral defence or seminar.
• Journal Club and Seminar Series – critical reading of primary literature and exposure to current research through departmental seminars.

The programme is typically structured to allow tailored pathways: students may focus more heavily on experimental bench work, quantitative biophysics, or computational and omics approaches depending on research interests and supervisor alignment.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally hold a bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, physics or a closely related discipline. Strong preparation in molecular and cellular biology, general and organic chemistry, calculus and introductory statistics is expected. Prior laboratory experience is highly recommended.

Application materials usually include:

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating solid undergraduate performance.
• A personal statement describing research interests and career goals.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé listing laboratory experience and relevant skills.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can comment on research potential.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.

Admission decisions take into account fit with available faculty research supervisors. Some applicants enter with a specific faculty mentor identified, while others are admitted and complete rotations to identify a research group.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of scientific careers. Common pathways include:

• Progression to doctoral research (PhD) or professional healthcare programmes.
• Research scientist roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, focusing on drug discovery, assay development, or molecular diagnostics.
• Positions in core facilities and technical roles such as proteomics, genomics and microscopy specialists.
• Regulatory science, quality control, and clinical laboratory careers in industry and healthcare settings.
• Science policy, communication and patent or regulatory affairs following additional training.

The practical training in experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication also equips graduates for roles in education, scientific publishing and technical consulting.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers this programme within a small, collaborative research environment that emphasises close mentorship and hands-on training. Students benefit from access to modern laboratory facilities and shared instrumentation commonly used in contemporary molecular research, and from interdisciplinary collaboration across biology, chemistry and physics faculty.

Being located in the San Diego region provides proximity to a large and active life-sciences industry, offering opportunities for internships, industry collaborations and exposure to translational research. The department places a strong emphasis on professional development, networking and preparation for both academic and industry careers.

Faculty-led research spans fundamental molecular mechanisms to applied biomedical projects, allowing students to align training with interests in basic science, translational research or technology development.