The Molecular Biosciences Graduate Program at the University of Nevada, Reno hosts both MS and PhD track programs. It is a true interdisciplinary effort that pulls expertise from many areas around campus. More than 75 participating faculty members are drawn from nine different departments.
The program provides a supportive environment for about 80 graduate students with excellent opportunities in a broad range of biological and biomedical research areas. Students pursue a rigorous training program with research opportunities using state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Participating faculty in this graduate program have over $65 million in current research funding.
In the first year, lab rotations introduce students to the molecular biosciences research community. From there, students select laboratories with specialties in Cell and Molecular Biology, Pharmacology and Physiology or Biochemistry. The program prepares students for a competitive career in research, teaching or outreach. Students develop skills in experimental design and execution, data analysis, statistics, literature research, grant writing, manuscript preparation, oral presentations and laboratory management. The program of study includes lecture courses, laboratory rotations, journal club presentations and discussion groups (year one to two), a qualifying written and oral examination (year three), along with dissertation research. View the full course list.
Students in the program benefit from interactions with faculty members from the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources (CABNR), College of Science, College of Engineering, the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Nevada State Public Health Laboratory, and the Desert Research Institute. Research areas include:
- Biochemistry and biophysics
- Bioinformatics
- Developmental biology
- Microbiology and immunology
- Insect and viral vectors
- Disease diagnostics
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular biology
- Smooth muscle and gastrointestinal physiology
- Plant biology
A federally supported center for excellence in Molecular and Cellular Signal Transduction in the Cardiovascular System provides multiple training opportunities and state of the art core facilities.
Students admitted to the Molecular Biosciences PhD programs are supported by research or teaching assistantship positions throughout their program, and additional significant scholarships during the first year. The assistantship currently carries a stipend of $2,200 per month, and students are covered by the university health insurance plan. PhD graduate assistants also receive a tuition waiver. Additional internal scholarships are also available.
Come work and play in and around Reno, Nevada. Listed as one of the “15 Happiest Places to Live in the U.S” by Outside Magazine, Reno is located at the intersection of the Great Basin Desert and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, less than an hour away from majestic Lake Tahoe. Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities are available year-round, complemented by numerous city festivals and entertainment opportunities. Climate, air and water quality are excellent. The city is one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S., yet average commute time is 25 minutes.
Program web site and contact information can be found on the University of Nevada, Reno's website.
Quick Program Facts
Degree Programs: PhD and master's degrees in Biochemistry or Cellular and Molecular Biology. PhD degree in Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology
Total Number of Graduate Students: 87 (Fall 2024)
Application Deadlines: December 1
GRE Scores: not required