![[North Central College]](images/nccsmall.gif){kind=small}
Molecular biologists can work on important biological problems in a variety of disciplines--cancer biology, development, immunology, evolution, pharmacology, biology of disease...just to name a few. What distinguishes a molecular biologist is using DNA and protein tools to look at these problems at the level of genes, enzymes and signaling pathways. Most molecular biologists are researchers at universities, biotech companies or pharmaceutical firms. A PhD is usually required if you'd like to run your own lab.
Recommended majors: Biochemistry or BS in Biology
Recommended courses: (not a complete listing of major requirements)
- BCM365 (Biochemistry)
- BCM465 (Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology)
- BIO200 (Cellular Biology)
- BIO242 (Bioinformatics)
- BIO260 (Genetics)
- BIO340 (Microbiology)
- BIO360 (Molecular Biology)
- BIO430 (Developmental biology)
- BIO440 (Virology and Immunology)
- CHM210 (Chemical analysis)
- CHM340 (Thermodynamics)
- CHM341 (Kinetics)
Suggestions to enrich your education:
- Join βββ, the biological honor society
- Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Microbiology (BCM 465) is a great course to explore current research in molecular biology and discuss research ethics, funding, publishing, scientific integrity and other current issues.
- Research experience is essential!
- Summer research is probably the best way to get this experience.
- An off-campus summer research program may broaden your experience.
- PHL215: Bioethics
Life after NCC:
- Take the GRE and apply for graduate school
- Earn a PhD degree, including a thesis reporting your own original research (4-6 years)
- In many fields, post-doctoral research experience in the lab of an experienced mentor is essential (2-3 years)
- If you're not sure graduate school is right for you, a one- or two-year job as a research assistant in a lab at a research university after graduation can give you added experience while helping you make up your mind.