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Molecular Biology: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the biology and molecular biology major?

The biology major is intended as a well-rounded program that encompasses the full scope of the study of life. The molecular biology major emphasizes a molecular and cellular core, narrows the scope of upper-division biology courses, and adds supporting science courses in college physics, organic chemistry, and biochemistry.

Who is the undergraduate advisor for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry?

The advisor is Dr. Ingrid Northwood. Office: SSB 8142 Phone: 291-3536 Email: inorthwo@sfu.ca
Source: www.sfu.ca
The advisor is Dr. Ingrid Northwood. Office: SSB 8142 Phone: 778-782-3536 Email: inorthwo@sfu.ca
Source: www.sfu.ca

What is Molecular Biology?

Molecular Biology is the study of the molecular basis of life using molecular approaches. More specifically, it is the study of gene (DNA) structure and function. You may choose to enroll in the Honours Biochemistry programme and specialize in the Molecular Biology stream, or to enroll in the Honours Molecular Biology programme administered jointly between the departments of Biology, Biochemistry and Pathology & Molecular Medicine.

How does chemical biology differ from a degree in molecular biology or in molecular and cell biology?

These disciplines have a lot in common. However, molecular biology is almost always taught as a sub-discipline of biology, often at the graduate level. The chemistry training in Lawrence Tech's chemical biology program is more extensive than in traditional molecular biology programs and prepares a student for graduate work in chemistry. For students with a stronger biology bent, Lawrence Tech has established new Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cell Biology. ...
Source: www.ltu.edu
These disciplines have a lot in common. However, molecular biology is almost always taught as a sub-discipline of biology, often at the graduate level. The chemistry training in Lawrence Tech’s chemical biology program is more extensive than in traditional molecular biology programs and prepares a student for graduate work in chemistry and biochemistry as well as in chemical biology. For students with a stronger biology bent, Lawrence Tech has established new Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cell Biology. ...
Source: www.ltu.edu

How does molecular and cell biology differ from a traditional biology degree?

Traditional biology programs cover the broad spectrum of life sciences, from the very smallest scale of the cell and its constituent parts to the collective organization and behavior of large animal and plant populations. Such programs generally include junior and senior level courses in botany, zoology and ecology. While these topics are not neglected in Lawrence Tech's molecular and cell biology program, the focus remains on the microscopic and submicroscopic: the cell, its machinery and its underlying functionality. ...
Source: www.ltu.edu

How do I declare a major in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry?

You must go see the MBB advisor, Dr. Northwood, in person to declare your major. No forms are necessary.
Source: www.sfu.ca
You must go see the MBB advisor, Dr. Northwood, in person to declare your major. No forms are necessary, but please bring your ADVISING transcript.
Source: www.sfu.ca

What are the differences between a BS in chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology?

Students will find that biochemistry and biology have a great deal in common, whereas chemistry requires more math and chemistry but no biology, genetics, or biochemistry.

What is the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (B&MB;) major?

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is an intensive, research-oriented major advised jointly by the Chemistry and Biology departments. It offers excellent preparation for graduate study in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology and related fields. Almost all majors conduct research during two or more summers, first at Sweet Briar and then at major research universities, before continuing to graduate school. B&MB; is recommended only for highly motivated students with very strong high school science backgrounds. ...

Why did you choose to major in molecular and cell biology?

At first, I chose it because it seemed like the right thing for premed preparation. After being there for a couple of years, I've come to love it insanely. I loved science to begin with, but this seemed like a whole new world for me! I love it because everyday I learn things that answer many of my questions about life and the nature of things, and it even makes me go a little further and ask new questions... to which I hope to get answers later. ...

Why does the University of Illinois have two different majors in biology: IB (integrative biology) and MCB (molecular and cellular biology)?

There are two schools of biology in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. Schools are groups of related departments that have joined together to pool their expertise, resources, and teaching. These two schools allow different groups of biologists to focus on different priorities, so that the campus is strong in all areas of biology. Each school offers its own major. Although the emphasis within the two majors is different, each major provides a complete introduction to the study of biology.

What is the difference between a major in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and the Cell Biology stream offered by the Biology department?

There are some similarities in core courses. Both departments require similar first and second year core courses in biology, chemistry, math, physics and biochemistry. - Upper division course requirements differ. MBB emphasizes studies on a cellular and nuclear level, while Biosciences requires both plant and animal biology courses.
Source: www.sfu.ca

What is the difference between the Cell and Molecular Stream in Biological Sciences and the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department (MBB)?

Although some requirements for both programs in the first two years are similar, the upper division requirements are not the same. The Cell and Molecular Stream allows students to focus on the study of cell and molecular biology while having a broad training in all aspects of contemporary biology, from cells through organisms to their ecology. The MBB program focuses on the sub-cellular and nuclear level as well as in biochemistry, without the broad context available to students in Biological Sciences.
Source: fas.sfu.ca
Although some requirements for both programs in the first two years are similar, the upper division requirements are not the same. The Cell and Molecular Stream allows students to focus on the study of cell and molecular biology while having a broad training in all aspects of contemporary biology, from cells through organisms to their ecology. The MBB program focuses on the sub-cellular and nuclear level as well as in biochemistry, without the broad context available to students in Biological Sciences. ...
Source: www.sfu.ca

What can I do with studies in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry?

provides excellent background for Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Medicine - graduates find opportunities in a wide range of postgraduate degree programs in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, biotechnology, microbiology, virology, immunology, pharmaceutical sciences, etc. - graduates may find employment opportunities in pharmaceutical companies and the expanding biotechnology industry - graduates may find employment as research assistants or technicians in clinical and diagnostic laboratories, ... ...
Source: www.sfu.ca

Are there significant employment opportunities for molecular and cell biology graduates in Michigan?

The industry-education consortium, MichBio, has identified over 542 companies in the State of Michigan with substantial presence in the life sciences and biotechnology areas. Recently, this number has been increasing at a rate of 20 per year. About $2 billion are invested annually in these areas in Michigan. The State of Michigan has recently committed considerable funding to further encourage the growth of biotechnology within its borders. ...
Source: www.ltu.edu

Why are journals from the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology being dealt with separately?

The journals in question were purchased by the LMB, and have been stored in the library as part of a long-standing agreement with the MRC. Decisions as to their future are its responsibility, and have been taken following a process of consultation within the LMB.

What are the minimum requirements to apply to the Ph.D. Program in Molecular and Cell Biology?

You must hold (or expect to hold prior to the beginning of classes) a bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution. You must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (B grade) on a 4.0 scale. You must take the General Graduate Record Exam (GRE). The average percentile for those being admitted to our program is ~80%. The GRE Subject Test is is not required but it is strongly recommended. You should have research laboratory experience. ...

How does the Committee on Genetics, Genomics & Systems Biology differ from the Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology?

The GGSB is designed to provide broad, in-depth training in diverse areas of genetics including population genetics, evolution, molecular genetics, genomics, systems biology, transmission genetics, model organism genetics, and human genetics.

What should I know about the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology?

The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and encompasses the Departments of Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology, Microbiology, and Molecular and Integrative Physiology. It is closely affiliated with the Center for Biophysics and Computational Biology and the Neuroscience Program along with other interdisciplinary programs. ...

Is the MSc in Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases the right course for me?

The MSc Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases (MBID) course is aimed at individuals who intend to pursue a career in medical or biological research into infectious diseases, and a majority of entering students intend to pursue a doctorate after completing the course. It does NOT provide appropriate training for those intending to work in a clinical or diagnostic setting - there are other MSc courses at LSHTM that would be much more appropriate for such students.

Do I need any previous molecular biology knowledge to take this course?

This is a question that we are asked frequently. No molecular biology experience is expected or required. The course schedule is designed such that there will be more lecture time in the first three days to bring everyone up to speed on common terms and concepts. These first few days provide a non-intimidating introduction to molecular biology. After that, you'll be amazed how smoothly we progress from basic to advanced topics like quantitative PCR and thermal cycle sequencing. ...

Why do we have to take Engineering Biology, CHE353F if we wish to take Cell and Molecular Biology, CHE354S as a technical elective? Can we use Engineering Physics MIE333F as a substitute?

CHE353F has to be taken because it is a prerequisite. Therefore you cannot take CHE354S without having taken CHE353F. If you wish to take CHE354S as your technical elective in the spring term you will have to take CHE353F in the fall term. CHE353F can be used as a technical elective substitute.

What is the pH of your DEPC-treated Water and Molecular Biology Grade Water?

In general, water has an extremely low buffering capacity. It is not unusual for water to range in pH from 2 to 10 units.

Where can I find more information about potential employers of persons with cell and molecular biology degrees?

The Career Center 715 W. Wright Street Champaign, IL (217) 333-0820 The MCB Advising Program 127 Burrill Hall (217) 333-6774 The Biotechnology Center 103 Observatory 901 S. Mathews, Urbana, IL (217) 333-1695 Note: The Biotechnology Center Placement Office is mainly for use by M.S. and Ph.D students. Their Web site however can provide you with an excellent idea of the types of employers and individuals who use this service. ...

How much Computer Science/Molecular Biology do I have to know for this course?

The course is designed primarily to serve biology majors, but is specifically intended to serve majors in computer science and allied fields as well. Students with a reasonable background in the biological sciences (as indicated in the prerequisites) and reasonable comfort with computers should feel free to enroll in the course.

What kind of skill set or knowledge do I need in molecular biology in order to attend a ProbeTec Training Class?

While there are no specific molecular biology prerequisites for attending a BD ProbeTec™ ET training class, we do recommend that the person attending the training be proficient in routine laboratory techniques and procedures.
Source: www.bd.com

I have a project to develop a new instrument that will be of value in molecular biology research. Which program is most appropriate?

Although projects such as this have excellent scientific merit and commercial opportunity, the Center does not have any programs for the development of new instrumentation.
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