Biochemistry

The Biochemistry graduate program gives students the molecular fundamentals of life processes and appropriate investigative training at the MSc and PhD level.
Students can perform research in a variety of subjects, such as the analysis of detailed aspects of molecular structures and the study of the integration of metabolism in whole animal systems.
Graduate students are also actively involved in laboratory bench work, course work, and oral and poster presentations at national and international. They acquire autonomy in conducting research and in preparing publications.
This broad, basic science background prepares students for career in a number of different work environments: teaching and research in an academic setting; research and administration in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry; or health related disciplines in the public or private sector.
Program Highlights
- University of Ottawa’s biochemistry program is the second largest in Ontario.
- Possibility for students to work in many research institutes affiliated with the university within the nation’s capital (OHRI, Heart Institute, CHEO)
- Multiple University-wide research core facilities including state-of-the-art LCMS/MS for proteomics and lipidomics studies, genomics, structural biology (x-ray crystallography), cell imaging and flow cytometry.
- CIHR Training Program in neurogenerative lipidomics and participates in the NSERC-CREATE Training program in Quantitative Biomedicine at the University of Ottawa.
Collaborative programs
Quick Info
- Candidate support page (FAQ)
- Application process
- How to find a thesis supervisor
- How to finance your studies
- Samples of thesis projects
- New MSc with research project
Contacts:
Program director
Dr. John Baenziger
(613-562-5800 ext. 8222)
Assistant Director
Dr. Katey Rayner (613-696-7350)
Facilities, Research Centres and Institutes
- Centre for Neural Dynamics
- University of Ottawa Centre for Neuromuscular Disease
- Centre for Research in Biopharmaceuticals and Biotechnology
- Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery
- Kidney Research Centre
- University of Ottawa Skills and Simulation Centre
- Medical Devices Innovation Institute
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute
Programs Offered in this Discipline
MSc in Biochemistry with Thesis
The programs prepare candidates for a variety of careers in teaching and research both within and outside of academia.
Graduate students are actively involved in laboratory research, course work, and presentation of research seminars. Thus, they acquire autonomy in conducting research and in preparing publications.
The programs create a stimulating and challenging environment which will allow students to achieve excellence in research. Graduates of the programs must demonstrate research skills and credibility as professionals in their area of research.
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 6 full-time terms; 24 consecutive months
- Year 1: Courses, thesis proposal, research
- Year 2: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
Fast-track from the MSc to the PhD
Outstanding students enrolled in the MSc program may be allowed to transfer to the PhD program without being required to write a master's thesis.
MSc in Biochemistry with Research Project
The MSc in biochemistry with research project is a one-year program designed to prepare candidates for careers in the biomedical sciences by enhancing competency in biomedical research, including the technology and techniques, specialized knowledge, critical thinking skills, communication skills, and professional skills through course work and participation in biomedical research in a laboratory setting.
Students must successfully complete 15 units of courses, a professionalism and professional skills course and an 8-month research project in order to meet the requirements of the program. Student must identify a supervisor prior enrolling.
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 3 full-time terms; 12 consecutive months (Fall, Winter, Spring/summer)
- Term 1: Completion of the following courses:
6 units of 5000- or 8000-level courses from the MSc in biochemistry
6 units at the 5000- or 8000-level from any program at the Faculty of Medicine
MED 8166 Professionalism and Professional Skills
MED 5301 Seminars - Term 2: MED 5900 Research Project
- Term 3: Completion of MED 5900 Research Project
Admission requirements
To be eligible for admission, candidates must:
- Have a bachelor of sciences (BSc) degree with a specialization or major (or equivalent) in one of the following areas: biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, physiology, human kinetics (kinesiology), biopharmaceutical or biomedical sciences with a minimum average of 75% (B+).
Note: International candidates must check the admission equivalencies for the diploma they received in their country of origin.
- Demonstrate a good academic performance in previous studies as shown by official transcripts, research reports, abstracts or any other documents demonstrating research skills.
- Identify at least one professor who is willing to supervise your research project.
Language Requirements
- Applicants must be able to understand and fluently speak the language of instruction (French or English) in the program to which they are applying. Proof of linguistic proficiency may be required. Most of the courses in this program are offered in English.
- Applicants whose first language is neither French nor English must provide proof of proficiency in the language of instruction.
Note: Candidates are responsible for any fees associated with the language tests.
Notes
- The admission requirements listed above are minimum requirements and do not guarantee admission to the program.
- Admissions are governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies.
Transfer to/from the MSc with thesis from/to the MSc with research project
Transfer from the MSc with research project to the MSc with thesis is permitted if academic standing in the program is good and permission from the research supervisor is obtained. Transfer from the MSc with thesis to the MSc with research project is not permitted except under exceptional circumstances.
- Term 1: Completion of the following courses:
MSc in Biochemistry Specialization in Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is an emerging and increasingly important scientific discipline dedicated to the pursuit of fundamental questions about the structure, function and evolution of biological entities through the design and application of computational approaches.
Fundamental research in these areas is expected to increase our understanding of human health and disease which translates into innovation in industry. Bioinformaticians today must be able to appreciate significant research in other fields and therefore require an understanding of the basic principles of other disciplines.
The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates "specialization in Bioinformatics."
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 6 full-time terms; 24 consecutive months
- Year 1: Courses, thesis proposal, research
- Year 2: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
Fast-track from the MSc to the PhD
Outstanding students enrolled in the MSc program may be allowed to transfer to the PhD program without being required to write a master's thesis.
MSc in Biochemistry Specialization in Human and Molecular Genetics
The Faculty of Medicine offers a collaborative program in Human and Molecular Genetics at the master's and doctoral levels. The primary graduate programs in Biochemistry (BCH), Cellular and Molecular Medicine (CMM) and Neuroscience (NSC) collaborate in offering the specialization. The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates "specialization in Human and Molecular Genetics."
Members of the program include scientists with interest and expertise in the following areas: developmental genetics, neuromuscular disease, microbial genetics, host resistance, cancer biology, aging, development of novel molecular therapeutics, gene therapy, growth and development, auto-immune diseases, molecular biology of viruses, bacteria and parasites, genetic epidemiology, retinal development and disease, animal models of human disease, molecular aspects of signal transduction.
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 6 full-time terms; 24 consecutive months
- Year 1: Courses, thesis proposal, research
- Year 2: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
Fast-track from the MSc to the PhD
Outstanding students enrolled in the MSc program may be allowed to transfer to the PhD program without being required to write a master's thesis.
MSc in Biochemistry Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine
The objective of the Pathology and Experimental Medicine collaborative program is to provide graduate students with the knowledge and skills to examine the basic mechanisms of disease pathology, and to develop new strategies for prevention and treatment. The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates “Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine.”
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 6 full-time terms; 24 consecutive months
- Year 1: Courses, thesis proposal, research
- Year 2: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
Fast-track from the MSc to the PhD
Outstanding students enrolled in the MSc program may be allowed to transfer to the PhD program without being required to write a master's thesis.
PhD in Biochemistry
The programs prepare candidates for a variety of careers in teaching and research both within and outside of academia.
Graduate students are actively involved in laboratory research, course work, and presentation of research seminars. Thus, they acquire autonomy in conducting research and in preparing publications.
The programs create a stimulating and challenging environment which will allow students to achieve excellence in research. Graduates of the programs must demonstrate research skills and credibility as professionals in their area of research.
The doctoral program participates in the Combined MD / PhD Program, which allows students to graduate with both a PhD in Biochemistry and an MD.
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 16 full-time terms; 64 consecutive months
- Year 1 and 2: Courses, thesis proposal, comprehensive exam, research
- Year 3 and 4: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
PhD in Biochemistry Specialization in Human and Molecular Genetics
The Faculty of Medicine offers a collaborative program in Human and Molecular Genetics at the master's and doctoral levels. The primary graduate programs in Biochemistry (BCH), Cellular and Molecular Medicine (CMM) and Neuroscience (NSC) collaborate in offering the specialization.
The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates "specialization in Human and Molecular Genetics."
The doctoral program participates in the Combined MD / PhD Program, which allows students to graduate with both a PhD in Biochemistry and an MD.
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 16 full-time terms; 64 consecutive months
- Year 1 and 2: Courses, thesis proposal, comprehensive exam, research
- Year 3 and 4: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
PhD in Biochemistry Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine
The objective of the Pathology and Experimental Medicine collaborative program is to provide graduate students with the knowledge and skills to examine the basic mechanisms of disease pathology, and to develop new strategies for prevention and treatment.
The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates “Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine.”
The doctoral program participates in the Combined MD / PhD Program, which allows students to graduate with both a PhD in Biochemistry and an MD.
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 16 full-time terms; 64 consecutive months
- Year 1 and 2: Courses, thesis proposal, comprehensive exam, research
- Year 3 and 4: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
PhD in Biochemistry Specialization in Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is an emerging and increasingly important scientific discipline dedicated to the pursuit of fundamental questions about the structure, function and evolution of biological entities through the design and application of computational approaches.
Fundamental research in these areas is expected to increase our understanding of human health and disease which translates into innovation in industry. Bioinformaticians today must be able to appreciate significant research in other fields and therefore require an understanding of the basic principles of other disciplines.
The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates "specialization in Bioinformatics."
The doctoral program participates in the Combined MD / PhD Program, which allows students to graduate with both a PhD in Biochemistry and an MD.
Program structure
Expected duration of the program: 16 full-time terms; 64 consecutive months
- Year 1 and 2: Courses, thesis proposal, comprehensive exam, research
- Year 3 and 4: Research, thesis writing and oral defence
Admission requirements
Please read the admission requirements to find out if you are eligible for this program.
Admission
Application Deadlines
Candidates | Fall term | Winter term | Spring-summer term |
---|---|---|---|
Canadian candidates | August 1 | December 1 | April 1 |
International candidates | March 1 | August 1 | January 1 |
Admission Requirements
- MSc in biochemistry with thesis
- MSc in biochemistry with research project (please see tab above for the admission requirements)
- MSc in biochemistry specialization in bioinformatics
- MSc in biochemistry specialization in human and molecular genetics
- MSc in biochemistry specialization in pathology and experimental medicine
- PhD in biochemistry
- PhD in biochemistry specialization in bioinformatics
- PhD in biochemistry specialization in human and molecular genetics
- PhD in biochemistry specialization in pathology and experimental medicine
Biochemistry Graduate Studies Committee
Drs. J. Baenziger (Director), K. Rayner (Assistant Director), D. Picketts, I. Lorimer, M. Fullerton, M. Pelchat, T. Lagace, A. Blais.