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Program Highlights

Research Oriented
Many of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) faculty are members of the National Academy of Sciences. Both Biochemistry faculty and former students have won Nobel Prizes. Others have prominent roles in biotech companies. Biochemistry groups are in the same buildings as Medical School and Chemistry groups. 21 current Biochemistry faculty.

Rotation System
Experience three research labs before choosing a research group.

Small Student Group
Recent classes have averaged 12 students

Housing
First year guaranteed in graduate apartments within walking distance

Neighborhood
Lively, safe, near beaches, hiking, walk to upscale shops and entertainment.

 

Financial
Stipend plus all other fees and insurance are paid by the program.

Courses
All students take an entry course based on current research in biochemistry. Limited subsequent requirements with options in the Medical School and in Chemistry.

Affiliations
The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) Program is within the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and associated with the Molecular Biology Institute (MBI).


Research Program:
  • Research is our main focus in the BMB Program
  • Many research projects are done in collaboration with our colleagues in Medical School and Basic Science Departments.
  • Two connected Biochemistry research buildings include faculty in Chemistry and the Medical School.
Small Student Group:
  • Approximately 12 students join our program each year
  • With 21 faculty members it’s easy for students to get into the lab of their choice
  • Small, elite program means students learn from their classmates
  • Strong support services; we are always available for advice
Rotation System:
  • First-year students work in three labs and then choose a permanent lab
  • Students have the opportunity to work with senior researchers in several different labs
  • A paid summer rotation is available to students before their first year
Requirements:
  • Research-based entry course with only your classmates
  • Minimal courses with options for more in other departments such as Medicine or Chemistry
  • Written qualifying exam on research as part of a research writing course
  • Oral qualifying exam in second year (no cumes)
  • Three quarters of teaching biochemistry discussions or labs, minimum
Research Seminar Schedule:
Financial:
  • Guaranteed stipend plus all fees and insurance paid
  • Guaranteed for all years in graduate school
  • Most students attend scientific conferences for free
Housing and Transportation:
  • In at least their first year, students are guaranteed housing in nearby Westwood Village
  • Walk to coffee shops, cafes, 10 movie theatres and all shopping
  • UCLA BruinCard fare discounts for local buses - no car needed
UCLA Neighborhood:
  • Safe, upscale, lively
  • Brentwood and Santa Monica to the west
  • Beverly Hills, and then West Hollywood to the east
  • Bel-Air north and Westwood south
  • Google map of UCLA neighborhood
Westside Life:

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For more information contact Biochemistry Graduate Admissions at (310) 825-2645, BMBgrad@chem.ucla.edu
607 Charles E. Young Drive East, 4006 Young Hall, Los Angeles, CA 90095

University of California © 2009 UC Regents  
Updated September 1, 2009