Molecular Biology
Overview
Molecular biology represents the interface between biology and chemistry
where increasing numbers of scientists are professionally active. Research
in this area requires skills and knowledge of chemistry and biology, and
of related areas of physics and mathematics. This interdisciplinary
concentration combines courses from the Biology and Chemistry Departments
to offer students a broad background in the molecular biosciences. We
recommend this as preparation for graduate study in biochemistry and
molecular biology, for medical school with an emphasis in molecular
medicine, or for a career in biotechnology. We encourage students
concentrating in Molecular Biology to participate in undergraduate
research with faculty, in the summer and during the academic year.
Requirements for the Concentration
A concentration in molecular biology requires a major in Chemistry or
Biology and the following courses: Chemistry 371, 373,
379, 385; Biology 233, 364;
Biology 241 or 372. Chemistry 379 may count as one course towards a
Biology major.
Faculty
The faculty of interdisciplinary programs are drawn from a variety of
departments. See faculty listing under department for individual degree
information.
Lauri Sammartano (Coordinator)
Assistant Professor of Biology, 1993-
Molecular biology
Beth R.J. Abdella
Assistant Professor of Chemistry, 1986-
Bio-organic chemistry
Eric Cole
Assistant Professor of Biology, 1993-
Developmental Biology
John Giannini
Associate Professor of Biology, 1988-
Cell biology, plant biochemistry
Anne Walter
Associate Professor of Biology, 1995-
Molecular biophysics, biomembranes