Molecular Biology at University of Pittsburgh

Molecular Biology emphasizes the study of molecules that make up an organism and the forces operating among these molecules. Increasingly, molecular biologists can also explore the genetic control of these molecules and thus define the developmental, cellular and subcellular changes that occur during the dynamic processes of life. Virtually every question, whether in biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology, or some other biological discipline, applies molecular biology, often as the prime approach, in its solution. Biochemical and molecular developments have revolutionized biological research, fueling the explosive growth in the biotechnology industry and rapid increase of molecular medicine.

The Molecular Biology major provides a strong background for many science careers, and may be completed along one of two distinct tracks: (a) Biochemistry or (b) Cell and Developmental Biology. Both tracks incorporate the requirements expected for admission to medical, dental, and other health-professional schools, and to graduate schools in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and related disciplines (see our guide for applying to graduate schools for more information). Positions for molecular biologists at the BS, MS, and PhD levels are available in the biotechnology industries as well as in universities, medical schools, hospitals, government laboratories, research institutes, and public health institutions.