The graduate program in Biological Chemistry at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine offers training in cutting-edge biomedical research for outstanding students. The BC faculty offers a wide variety of research topics, that range from detailed studies of the structure and function of single molecules to complex biological processes studied in vivo. Faculty research interests include the molecular mechanisms underlying the sensation of light, heat and pain, the cellular and molecular basis of embryonic development, wound healing, cell differentiation, motility, and adhesion, DNA replication, RNA processing, protein structure and folding, the structure and function of carbohydrate modifications, water channels, ion channels, and diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer.

The curriculum begins with course-work, which includes both formal lecture modules as well as a literature-based discussion course involving the entire BC faculty. Crucial components of the first year are the 2-3 laboratory rotations that introduce the new student to research techniques and approaches in laboratories of his/her choice. At the conclusion of these rotations the student will commit to a particular laboratory and pursue a Ph.D. thesis research project. An oral qualifying examination will be administered after completion of the first-year course curriculum. The objective of this Ph.D. program is to prepare young scientists for independent careers in biomedical research.