M.Sc.

Intensive and thesis research driven, with a goal of publication in peer-review journals.

Ph.D.

Tailored to maximize student productivity and learning through basic research.

M.D./Ph.D.

An integrated format with specific blocks for activities in full- or part-time studies in either program

WELCOME TO THE BIOCHEMISTRY GRADUATE PROGRAM

Designed with the student in mind – to maximize accomplishments in research and prepare for a rich and fulfilling career.

Graduate education is at the heart of what we do. You can choose a supervisor from more than 50 investigators at the McMaster campus or in area hospitals, and our facilities are second to none.

Most importantly, we have tailored our programs to maximize student success. The most important goals of a student in the Biochemistry Graduate Program are to learn how to formulate, carry out and interpret meaningful experiments that address important questions, to learn how to communicate results to the public and other scientists and to publish those results in relevant journals.

Our M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs reflect these goals. At all stages we try to maximize the time students have to focus on their thesis research. Course work is restricted to the M.Sc. level and is designed to introduce cutting edge ideas and technology.We monitor student progress carefully to ensure the successful and timely completion of rewarding degrees. We feel that the Biochemistry Graduate Program offers an atmosphere that is scientifically stimulating and enriching.

DOLLARS IN SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS AWARDED

PAPERS PUBLISHED PER YEAR IN TOP JOURNALS

GROWTH IN PhD ENROLLMENT OVER PAST 10 YEARS

Biochemistry Graduate Program students bring in over $1 million yearly in external awards and scholarships

WHAT CAN OUR GRADUATE PROGRAM OFFER YOU?

From career-defining opportunities to innovative research support – experience more with the Biochemistry Graduate Program.

Career-Defining Opportunities

Today’s job market is competitive and students need an edge. The Biochemistry graduate program is student-focused, aiming to meet the needs of each and every student. Whether you’re interested in a career in academia, the private sector, or the public sector, we support a branching career pipeline to get you where you want to go. Let us help you land your dream job!

World Class Facilities

To do cutting-edge research you need world-class facilities. Here at McMaster, Biochemistry graduate students have access to state of the art equipment to support a wide range of research activities. Whether you’re interested in high-throughput screening, genome sequencing and functional genomics, or cell and structural biology, we have the equipment and core facilities to tackle your most important research questions. Get in!

Cutting Edge Research

We offer a multidisciplinary, research-intensive environment where students take innovative approaches to tackle pressing biomedical research questions. Students work with world-class scientists in a training environment that emphasizes technical excellence, scientific creativity and research productivity. Our trainees consistently publish in the best journals in science and make a name for themselves through their discoveries. Come make yours!

Quick FAQS

Find out answers to commonly asked questions. Click here to visit our FAQ page for more in depth information.

Quick FAQS

Find out answer to commonly asked questions. Visit our FAQ page for more in depth information.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted

What are the typical times of degree completion in Biochemistry Graduate Program?

The typical completion times

Why should I choose McMaster University?

Founded in 1887, McMaster

What kind of jobs do students get after graduating?

Graduates of the program

How will I know when my application is complete?

Once your application has

What are the Biochemistry Graduate Program admission requirements?

Minimum requirements for admission

WHAT CAREER PATHS DO GRADUATES FOLLOW?

Following your career dreams has never been more exciting.

Our graduates land great jobs in all areas of our innovation-based economy. Past trainees have secured outstanding postdoctoral fellowships in world-class research institutes such as the University of California, MIT, and Stanford, paving the way for advanced science leadership roles. Past graduates have faculty positions in academia, lead teams in the public sector, and manage research portfolios in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries to develop the next generation of products and technologies to advance science and health. The opportunities are endless!

WHAT DO GRADUATES SAY ABOUT THE BIOCHEMISTRY GRADUATE PROGRAM?

They say that hindsight is 20/20. I only began to truly recognize the exemplary training I received in the McMaster Biochemistry Department after I graduated. Admittedly the program was tough; the expectations were set high. Yet there was a balance of comradery and fun. Here I learned that science was more than experiments and literature reviews (although there was a fair amount of that too): science was also about leadership, mentoring, knowledge exchange and seeing the bigger picture. My experiences with trainees from McMaster relative to other institutions have solidified my view that this department was best able to prepare me for not only a career, but also life after graduate school.

Dr. Suzanne Osborne,

PhD in the Coombes lab, Postdoctoral fellow at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto Canada

The Biochemistry graduate program helped me develop and gain several research skills within a multidisciplinary environment. Collaboration within different groups in the department can be easily established and PI's are always available to discuss research projects and provide advice for future plans.

Dr. Ahmad Jomaa,

PhD in the Ortega Lab, Postdoctoral fellow in Nenad Ban Lab at ETH, Zurich

My years in the Biochemistry Graduate Program at McMaster University were a once in a lifetime experience. The industrious and collaborative working environment is a fantastic training opportunity. The teaching philosophies embraced by the department encouraged me to become the best scientist I can be. I am grateful for the transferable skills I have developed from my time at McMaster.

Dr. Monica Pillon,

PhD in the Guarne Lab, Postdoctoral fellow in Robin Stanley Lab at NIEHS, North Carolina