Biological Chemistry Education
biochemistry students sit at tables and listen at a conference

Partner With Us to Advance Molecular Understanding

We strive to provide trainee-centered educational programs emphasizing mentoring and scientific engagement.

Build a solid foundation for success in Biomedical Science

In teaching, training and research, the U-M Medical School Department of Biological Chemistry is advancing the understanding of biological processes. Cross-campus collaboration between departments and laboratories creates an environment where future scientific leaders learn and grow. Where discoveries translate into real change.

Our studies of biology at the molecular and mechanistic levels span disciplines including biochemistry, structural biology, cell biology, bioinformatics, neurobiology, genetics and more.

Discover how the building blocks of life can serve as the solid foundation for your success.

Training & Education
PhD Program

Our diverse program pairs broad scientific training with highly specialized research.

Postdoctoral Training

Participate in our seminar series, annual research retreat, and year-round social events while advancing your scientific career.

MS Program

Two tracks of learning, research or coursework, build a solid academic foundation.

Undergraduate Students

Explore our courses and research opportunities for undergraduate students.

"Our future is clearly in terrific hands as these young colleagues advance their science while working together to strengthen and diversify our community."

Department of Biological Chemistry Chair
Chair Phyllis Hanson seated and smiling in a laboratory
Biological Chemistry Awards for Trainees

These honors recognize excellence in scholarship, research, and service and connect today's trainees with former departmental leaders and scientists who endowed them.

Learn about our awards
Upcoming Events View all events
Dr. Venkata Mandala, Rockefeller University
Join the Department of Biological Chemistry for a seminar presented by Dr. Venkata Mandala from Rockefeller University.
headshot of Venkata Mandala
MS Program Information Session
Potential applicants to the Biological Chemistry MS program are invited to attend a virtual information session.
711 Seminar - Xander Adams
The Department of Biological Chemistry hosts the 711 Graduate Seminar Paper Analysis presented by Xander Adams.
Dr. Haoxi Wu, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Join the Department of Biological Chemistry for a seminar presented by Dr. Haoxi Wu from MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology.
headshot of Haoxi Wu
711 Seminar - Riley Bigger
The Department of Biological Chemistry hosts the 711 Graduate Seminar Paper Analysis presented by Riley Bigger.
711 Seminar - Thejas Nair
The Department of Biological Chemistry hosts the 711 Graduate Seminar Paper Analysis presented by Thejas Nair.
Dr. Weikai Li, Washington University in St. Louis
Join the Department of Biological Chemistry for a seminar presented by Dr. Weikai Li from Washington University in St. Louis.
headshot of Weikai Li
Dissertation Defense - Yulduz Rakibova
The Department of Biological Chemistry hosts a Dissertation Defense by PhD Candidate Yulduz Rakibova.
711 Seminar - Esme Lowry
The Department of Biological Chemistry hosts the 711 Graduate Seminar Paper Analysis presented by Esme Lowry.
Biological Chemistry News & Stories See all news model for proteins binding viral RNA
Department News
PhD student Zoe Yeoh publishes a research article in PNAS
U-M Biological Chemistry PhD student Zoe Yeoh is the first author of a research article in PNAS.
outdoor photo of Debra Thompson
Department News
Debra Thompson, PhD, retires from active faculty status
Congratulations and best wishes to Debra Thompson, PhD, Professor Emerita of Biological Chemistry and Professor Emerita of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
headshot of Mason Myers
Department News
PhD student Mason Myers receives a predoctoral fellowship from the National Institutes of Health
U-M Biological Chemistry PhD student Mason Myers of the Zhang lab receives a predoctoral fellowship.
CureSearch logo
Department News
John Prensner, MD, PhD, receives a Young Investigator Award from CureSearch for Children's Cancer
Assistant Professor John Prensner of the Departments of Pediatrics and Biological Chemistry at U-M Medical School is the recipient of funding from CureSearch for Children's Cancer.
headshot of Emily Ellinger, PhD
Department News
Congratulations to Emily Ellinger, PhD
Biological Chemistry PhD student Emily Ellinger of the Walter lab defends her doctoral dissertation.
headshots of two fellowship winners
Department News
Andres Herrera Tequia and Leidy Vanegas Cano awarded Rackham International Student Fellowships
Andres Herrera Tequia and Leidy Vanegas Cano in the Department of Biological Chemistry at U-M Medical School have received Rackham International Student Fellowships for 2024–25.