PhD in Medicinal Chemistry
Where research shapes medicinal chemists
UB’s PhD in Medicinal Chemistry is a research-intensive degree focused on developing independent thinkers and skilled researchers. Students combine rigorous coursework with sustained research to address complex problems in drug discovery and design, as well as chemical biology, molecular biology and pharmacology.
On this page:
- Interdisciplinary exposure: Core coursework emphasizes medicinal chemistry alongside traditional chemistry areas
- Strong research focus: Majority of the program devoted to original and creative research in medicinal chemistry
- Supportive environment: State of the art facilities, modern instrumentation and encouraging faculty
- Designed for students seeking advanced research training in medicinal chemistry
- Emphasizes independence, creativity and critical thinking through research
- Access to advanced research instrumentation
- Clear progression through coursework, proficiency requirements and research milestones
- Strong ties to the medical school and Buffalo’s medical research corridor
- Advanced medicinal chemistry and organic chemistry principles applied to drug design
- Design, plan and conduct independent experiments in a specialized research area
- Critically analyze chemical and biomedical literature
- Communicate research clearly through proposals, presentations and dissertation defense
Fall
- Take three graduate-level core courses, including required medicinal chemistry coursework
- Demonstrate early proficiency through coursework or ACS placement exams
- Meet faculty and select a research advisor
Spring
- Take three graduate-level elective courses chosen with your research advisor
- Begin research activities
Fall
- Complete any remaining coursework
- Demonstrate proficiency in medicinal chemistry and three traditional areas of chemistry through coursework or ACS exams
Fall
- Prepare a written research synopsis outlining progress and future research plans
- Write and orally defend an independent research proposal
Fall or spring
- Present a public research lecture to share progress and receive feedback from the PhD committee
Fall or spring
- Complete original research
- Write and orally defend a doctoral dissertation before the PhD committee and the department
Common fields for PhD Medicinal Chemistry graduates:
- Academic research and teaching careers
- Scientific research roles in industry or government laboratories
- Leadership roles in research driven organizations
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With questions about the graduate chemistry programs, please contact chemgrad@buffalo.edu.
