PhD Program
D. Fernando Estrada, PhD, left, provides mentorship to doctoral students such as Christopher S. Campomizzi.
As a PhD candidate, you will research in our highly collaborative environment, present your findings on multiple occasions and acquire the skills of a well-rounded, independent research scientist.
Practical Preparation for Your Future
Our school’s lab rotation system gives you a broad-based foundation in the biomedical sciences while you collaborate with renowned research scientists on cutting-edge research. The combination of a structured, interdisciplinary curriculum and strong support for your individual interests prepares you to pursue your career goals, whether in academia, industry or government.
During your first year, you will write a mock funding proposal for research you wish to carry out in a particular mentor’s lab. This proposal constitutes your preliminary exam for the program. Once completed, you submit your proposal to a funding agency, establishing your research’s trajectory.
Support for Your Professional Development
Our department is dedicated to fostering the professional growth of our PhD candidates in the lab and beyond. Many of our students attend and present at national meetings. We host weekly guest lectures featuring renowned research scientists. In the Student Journal Club you can bounce research ideas off your peers, present your data and practice your thesis defense.
During the spring you will present your research at the Biochemistry Research Day. First-year students present their work in poster form. In subsequent years, doctoral students make oral presentations to our department’s faculty, students and staff.
Contact Us
Director of Graduate Studies
955 Main St., Rm 4222 Department of Biochemistry Buffalo, NY 14203
Phone: 716-829-2767; Fax: 716-829-2725
Email: dfestrad@buffalo.edu
Administrator, Graduate and Undergraduate Programs
Beth O’Brocta
Assistant to the Chair
Department of Biochemistry