Biological Chemistry Education

audience in a lecture hall

Partner With Us to Advance Molecular Understanding

We strive to provide trainee-centered educational programs emphasizing mentoring and scientific engagement.

Build a solid foundation for success in Biomedical Science

In teaching, training and research, the U-M Medical School Department of Biological Chemistry is advancing the understanding of biological processes. Cross-campus collaboration between departments and laboratories creates an environment where future scientific leaders learn and grow. Where discoveries translate into real change.

Our studies of biology at the molecular and mechanistic levels span disciplines including biochemistry, structural biology, cell biology, bioinformatics, neurobiology, genetics and more.

Discover how the building blocks of life can serve as the solid foundation for your success.

Training & Education

PhD Program

Our diverse program pairs broad scientific training with highly specialized research.

Postdoctoral Training

Participate in our seminar series, annual research retreat, and year-round social events while advancing your scientific career.

MS Program

Two tracks of learning, research or coursework, build a solid academic foundation.

Undergraduate Students

Explore our courses and research opportunities for undergraduate students.

"Our future is clearly in terrific hands as these young colleagues advance their science while working together to strengthen and diversify our community."

Department of Biological Chemistry Chair
Chair Phyllis Hanson seated and smiling in a laboratory
two students receiving awards

Biological Chemistry Awards for Trainees

These honors recognize excellence in scholarship, research, and service and connect today's trainees with former departmental leaders and scientists who endowed them.

Learn about our awards

Upcoming Events

 View all events

Department of Biological Chemistry 2026 Retreat
The annual Department of Biological Chemistry Retreat will be held at W.K. Kellogg Biological Station.
view of trees and lake

Biological Chemistry News & Stories

 See all news headshot of Patrick O'Brien
Department News

Patrick O'Brien, PhD, featured in ASBMB Today

UM Biological Chemistry professor Patrick O'Brien is interviewed by ASBMB Today.
 Computer illustration of the CRISPR complex on DNA
Health Lab

CRISPR acts as commander-in-chief for backup defenses in bacteria

A new study uncovers a previously underrecognized feature of the type I CRISPR-Cas system in the bacteria Neisseria: the presence of additional embedded innate immunity genes.
 headshot of Carmen Castillo
Department News

Congratulations to Carmen Castillo, PhD

U-M Biological Chemistry PhD student Carmen Castillo of the Koutmos lab defends her doctoral dissertation.
 cells floating green black background strings many floating in backdrop
Health Lab

Scientists discover that bacteria use an understudied polymer found in all life to protect cell functions during stress

New study discovers that polyphosphate, a molecule that exists in all lifeforms but has to date been hard to study, could be a fundamental element worth exploring, say Michigan Medicine researchers.
 headshot of Adrian Palumbo
Department News

Adrian Palumbo chosen for a position in the Pharmacological Sciences Training Program

U-M Biological Chemistry PhD student Adrian Palumbo has been awarded a position in the Pharmacological Sciences Training Program.
 headshot of John Larson
Department News

John Larson chosen for a position in the Genetics Training Program

U-M Biological Chemistry PhD student John Larson has been awarded a position in the Genetics Training Program.