Molecular Biology

Study genetic structures, proteins, and functions within cells as well as other molecular interactions

 

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Insights into life at the micro-level

Unraveling Molecular Mysteries

Molecular Biology students gain a deep understanding of life’s building blocks by conducting research that investigates the structure, function, regulation and evolution of molecules and their interactions with each other.

  • Apply foundational scientific principles
  • Discuss and analyze original scientific research
  • Interpret data and identify experimental samples
  • Create controlled experiments to test hypotheses

Molecular Biology Major Requirements

Program Overview

Experience an interdisciplinary approach to Molecular Biology that blends math, chemistry, and biology.

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Pitzer Major Requirements

Prepare for graduate school, medical school, and a wide variety of professions with a major that incorporates a significant amount of mathematics into a study of biology and the physical sciences.

Scripps Major Requirements

With its research focus, the major is aimed to help students preparing for graduate school (including medical school) along with careers in industries such as biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

Molecular Biology Faculty

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Jennifer Armstrong

Professor of Biology

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Robert Brodman

Visiting Professor of Biology

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Michael Brown

Biology Education Specialist

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Sarah Budischak

Assistant Professor of Biology

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Pete Chandrangsu

Assistant Professor of Biology

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Robert Comito

Visiting Lecturer of Biology

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Elise Ferree

Professorial Lecturer in Biology

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Patrick Ferree

Professor of Biology

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Findley Finseth

Associate Professor of Biology

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Sarah Gilman

Associate Professor of Biology

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Kyle Jay

Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology

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Erin Jones

Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology

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Cory Kohn

Biology Education Specialist

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Donald A. McFarlane

Kenneth S. Pitzer Professor of Biology & Environmental Science

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Jenna Monroy

Associate Professor of Biology

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Marion Preest

Pritzker Family Foundation Professor of Biology

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Benjamin Schlau

Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology

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Aditi Vyas

Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology

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Emily Wiley

Professor of Biology

Student insights

Creating Meaningful Impact

“I hope to combine my research interests with diversity, equity, and inclusion work to combat many of the inequities that BIPOC and low-income communities face in terms of access to healthcare.”

Juan Santos PZ ’23
Molecular Biology and Spanish double major

Read Juan’s Story

 

Molecular Biology Resources

Explore

The Department of Natural Sciences offers various resources to help Molecular Biology majors gain a richer understanding of the field.

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Research Opportunities

As a Molecular Biology major, you’ll be able to explore more than 26 research groups.

 

Faculty Advisors

As a Molecular Biology student, your dedicated faculty advisor will help you meet your goals — every step of the way.

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The Nucleus

Our science facilities offer state-of-the-art resources and labs for Molecular Biology majors.

Molecular Biology FAQs

Learn More

Trying to plan out your professional future? Consider a few questions commonly asked by students interested in Molecular Biology.

Molecular Biology is a great choice for students interested in pursuing careers in research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medicine, forensics, and related fields. It’s also a great fit for pre-med students.

Yes, typically a Biochemistry major focuses on chemical processes, while a Molecular Biology major studies the molecular mechanisms and functions in living organisms.

Some current research areas in the field are exploring gene editing, drug development, cancer research, and understanding the mechanics of infectious diseases.