The Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics Department’s goal is to instill a thorough knowledge of modern biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and biophysics, while at the same time awakening the student’s imagination to the diverse and exciting research areas represented by our faculty. The academic and research activities, as well as the many opportunities for interaction among students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty, help to shape an outstanding and cooperative research and training experience.

The department plays a major role in the teaching of the following modules of the Integrated Clinical Sciences for 1st year Medical Students: Foundations of Medicine; Cells, Blood & Cancer; and Gastrointestinal. Several MD, Ph.D. students conduct research in departmental laboratories. The department also welcomes MD students to conduct research during the summer or during term under the direction of selected mentors.

Each year 10-20 undergraduates from the University of Virginia join laboratories in the department to carry out primary research, often resulting in undergraduate thesis. Research is carried out both in the summer and during term.