Interdisciplinary Program in the Biomedical and Natural Sciences

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Arthur M. Mickalek, Ph.D., Chair and Dean
Craig R. Johnson, M.S., Director of Graduate Studies

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Program: Natural Sciences, MS

Areas of Study:

Biochemistry
Biophysics
Cancer Genetics/Genomics
Cell/Molecular Biology
Cancer Epidemiology
Experimental Pathology
Microbiology/Immunology
Pharmacology
Physiology

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Description

Interdisciplinary programs leading to the degree of Master of Science in the natural and basic biomedical sciences are offered through the Roswell Park Graduate Division of the University at Buffalo. These programs are designed for characteristically the following students:

• USA/Canadian citizens or permanent residents only.
• Future Ph.D. candidates who have not yet decided on a PhD program for themselves.
• Students who wish to continue their education at a professional school following the MS degree.
• Students who desire a career in research terminating with their master degree.
• Students who seek a teaching career in science.

Programs are designed to give students a research experience along with a broad based science education. Students are given the opportunity to design their own curriculum in consultation with the Chair of the program. Thus, while students are matriculated into the Interdisciplinary Natural Sciences program; some may concentrate in molecular biology, immunology, pharmacology, biophysics, physiology or some other established field. One of the major strengths of this program is the exposure provided to students to the mutli- and inter-disciplinary nature of research. The Natural Sciences faculty is supplemented by faculty from the Institute's other Divisional departments.

Besides selecting courses from the aforementioned list, it is possible for students to elect a specialization in epidemiology. The specialization is intended to provide the basic knowledge necessary to understand research on the etiology of cancer such as carcinogenesis, and to apply it to cancer control. It attempts to achieve this objective by exposing students to the fundamentals of the epidemiological method of investigations along with related statistical techniques. In addition to required course offerings, students may also take coursework in the following areas: biostatistics, demography, medical sociology and others.

Course Work

• Minimum 36 credit hours; required courses "Oncology for Scientists I/II"
• 18 hours, area of concentration in the Biological, Biochemical, or Biophysical sciences
• 6 hours from areas not selected as concentration (two courses)
• 6 hours independent research project
• 2 hours seminars
• 2 hours electives

Examinations

Course work and oral defense of written project in thesis format.

Project

With the guidance of a major investigator from the Institute staff, each student is required to do an independent laboratory research project within the labs and/or clinics of the Institute. Six credit hours are to be assigned to this project.

Upon completion of the project, the research is to be written up in thesis format and orally defended. The oral examination is conducted by the Department Chairman, the research advisor, and a third senior investigator with knowledge of the student's research, who sit as the student's committee. Successful defense of project usually signals completion of the degree.

Retention Standards

Minimum 3.0 (B) Grade Point Average.

Residency Requirement

24 Credit hours from UB/RP departments.

Admission Requirements

Students entering this program must be prepared to take part in a traditional graduate studies experience. The life-style of a full-time graduate student integrates the building of a scientific and collegial relationship in the laboratory, learning to read and utilize the scientific literature, and maintaining strict attendance and active participation in lecture classes. Honor grades (A or B) are expected of graduate students, however, the primary objective is to learn scientific principles and applications, not to be overly concerned about one's grade point average.

Graduates of the program enter doctoral programs in the biomedical and natural sciences, medicine and dentistry among others, or accept research positions. Even though students career goals may differ, the objective of this program is to direct students in scholarship related to a graduate experience in science. Matriculating students must hold a baccalaureate degree in one of the natural or biomedical sciences and have the interest to pursue the field in depth. Undergraduate coursework in biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology including related laboratory courses is strongly recommended. A proven track record of laboratory and/or research experiences is recommended with an honest motivation to do research as a graduate student.

Online applications may be obtained by clicking here.

E-mail: craig.johnson@roswellpark.org

• An official transcript is required
• MCAT scores may be substituted for the GRE
• TOEFL (minimum score of 600 for traditional tests; 250 for computer-based tests)

Submit the Following

• Online Application Form
• A $50.00 application fee, payable by credit card to SUNY at Buffalo on the on-line application form.
• Official Transcripts - minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Letters of recommendation (2)
• Personal Statement / Resume
• Standardized Test Scores (GRE Aptitude or MCAT)

Application Deadlines

Fall Semester - March 1

Other

Offer of admission does not carry with it financial support. Students will make arrangements to support themselves financially.