 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Curriculum
Coursework: Our first goal is to familiarize students with structure/function relationships of a wide variety of macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. The fundamentals are taught in core courses covering genetics, biochemistry cell & molecular biology. Structural biology training commences with two required courses, "Principles of Structural Biology", followed by "Advanced Techniques in Structural Biology". Elective courses include "Cryoelectron Microscopy", "Molecular Modeling, "Bioinformatics and Drug Design" and NMR. In later years, one-on-one tutorials are available to provide an opportunity for in-depth investigation of selected topics.Research rotations: Students are introduced to laboratory research by completing three 12-week research rotations during the first year. These rotations hands-on experience with several different methodologies and provides a basis for selecting a laboratory for thesis research.
Presentation skills: The ability to communicate effectively is essential to a successful scientific career. This training starts with class presentations and attendance at some of the frequent research seminars hosted by faculty at NYU. Our graduate program organizes a series entitled "Research-in-Progress", in which students and postdocs present their own research to their peers. Students are encouraged to participate in poster sessions at NYU, at departmental retreats, and at local events such as the New York Structural Biology Discussion Group.
Mentoring: A variety of faculty members provide supervision and guidance to students throughout their tenure in the program. During the first year, each student chooses a Faculty Mentor who offers advice about courses, research rotations, and life as a graduate student. A laboratory is chosen for thesis research at the end of the first year and an Advisory Committee with four faculty members is assembled in consultation with the thesis advisor and Program Directors. This committee initially examines the student's proposal for thesis research at the end of the second year and, thereafter, meets yearly to supervise the progress of the thesis research.