Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Kline Biology Tower, 432.3538
www.biology.yale.edu/
M.S., Ph.D.
Chair
Thomas Pollard
Director of Graduate Studies
Shirleen Roeder (804 KBT, 432.3501, shirleen.roeder@yale.edu)
Professors
Sidney Altman, Kim Bottomly (Immunology), Ronald Breaker, John Carlson, Lynn Cooley (Genetics), Stephen Dellaporta, Xing-Wang Deng, Paul Forscher, Sankar Ghosh (Immunobiology), Mark Hochstrasser (Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry), Vivian Irish, Douglas Kankel, Michael Kashgarian (Pathology), Haig Keshishian, Perry Miller (Anesthesiology), Mark Mooseker, Jon Morrow (Pathology), Timothy Nelson, L. Nicholas Ornston, Thomas Pollard, Shirleen Roeder, Joel Rosenbaum, Alanna Schepartz (Chemistry), Michael Snyder, Robert Wyman
Associate Professors
Craig Crews, Savithramma Dinesh-Kumar, Christine Jacobs-Wagner, Frank Slack, Hugh Taylor (Obstetrics/Gynecology), Weimin Zhong
Assistant Professors
Thierry Emonet, Martín García-Castro, Scott Holley, Elke Stein, David Wells
Fields of Study
Research in genetics and molecular biology encompasses studies of catalytic RNAs, cell cycle regulation, chromosome segregation, genetic recombination, mutation, transposons, and oncogenes. Research topics in cellular and developmental biology include structure of the cell cytoskeleton, molecular motors, chemical biology, cell surface receptors, protein transport, hormone action, mammalian transcription factors, and the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation. Research in neurobiology focuses on sensory signal transduction, animal color vision, growth cone motility, neural differentiation, synaptogenesis, and the formation of topographic maps. A Special Program in Plant Sciences provides research and training in the molecular genetics of flowering, the developmental biology of leaves, the physiology of hormone action, sex determination, and the cellular and molecular biology of photomorphogenesis. Because of the breadth of the department, students are provided with unique opportunities for interdisciplinary studies.
To enter the Ph.D. program, students apply to the Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics, and Development (MCGD) track within the interdepartmental graduate program in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS).
Special Admissions Requirements
Applicants should have obtained training in the structure, development, and physiology of organisms; the structure, biochemistry, and physiology of cells; genetics; elementary calculus; elementary physics; inorganic and organic chemistry; statistics or advanced mathematics. Lack of some prerequisites can be made up in the first year of graduate study. Students having different science training, such as degrees in chemistry, physics, or engineering, are encouraged to apply. In addition to the GRE General test, a Subject Test is recommended, preferably in Biology, or in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology.
Special Requirements for the Ph.D. Degree
Each student is expected to take at least three courses, in addition to MCDB 900/901 (First-Year Introduction to Research). With the help of a faculty committee, each student will plan a specific program that includes appropriate courses, seminars, laboratory rotations, and independent reading fitted to individual needs and career goals. There is no foreign language requirement. Late in the third term of study, the student meets with a faculty committee to decide on a preliminary topic for dissertation work and to define the research areas in which he or she is expected to demonstrate competence. By the end of the second year, each student prepares a dissertation prospectus outlining the research proposed for the Ph.D. The student is admitted to candidacy for the Ph.D. when (1) the prospectus is accepted by a dissertation committee of faculty members, (2) the committee is satisfied that the student has demonstrated competence in the areas necessary to conduct the proposed work, and (3) the other requirements indicated above are fulfilled. The student should complete the requirements for admission to candidacy no later than the end of the second year of study. Following admission to candidacy, each student is required to meet with his/her thesis advisory committee at least once a year.The remaining requirements include completion of the dissertation research, presentation and defense of the dissertation, and submission of acceptable copies of the dissertation to the Graduate School and to the Kline Science Library. All students are required to teach in two one-term courses during their Ph.D. study, but not during the first year of graduate study. Requirements for M.D./Ph.D. students are the same as for Ph.D. students, except that a single term of teaching is required.
Honors Requirement
Students must meet the Graduate School’s Honors requirement by the end of the fourth term of full-time study.
Master’s Degree
M.S. (en route to the Ph.D.). The minimum requirements for award of the Master of Science Degree are: (1) two academic years registered and in residence full time in the graduate program; (2) satisfactory completion of the first two years of study and research leading to the Ph.D.; this requirement may be met either (a) by completing a minimum of five courses with an average grade of High Pass, and at least one Honors grade, in addition to satisfactory performance in MCDB 900/901, or (b) by (i) successfully completing at least three courses with an average grade of High Pass and at least one Honors grade, (ii) satisfactory performance in MCDB 900/901, and (iii) passing the prospectus examination; (3) recommendation by the department for award of the degree, subject to final review and approval by the appropriate degree committee. No courses that were taken prior to matriculation in the graduate program, or in Yale College, or in summer programs may be applied toward these requirements.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the BBS Web site (info.med.yale.edu/bbs), MCGD Track.
Courses
MCDB 500au,Biochemistry. L. Nicholas Ornston, Ronald Breaker, Donald Engelman.
MWF 9.25–10.15
An introduction to the biochemistry of animals, plants, and microorganisms, emphasizing the relations of chemical principles and structure to the evolution and regulation of living systems.
[MCDB 505a, Molecular Genetics of Prokaryotes.]
MCDB 530au,Biology of the Immune System. Sankar Ghosh and staff.
MWF 9.25–10.15
The development of the immune system. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of immune recognition. Effector responses against pathogens; autoimmunity. Also IBIO 530a.
MCDB 550au,Physiological Systems. Mark Saltzman, Emile Boulpaep.
MWF 9.25–10.15
The course develops a foundation in human physiology by examining the homeostasis of vital parameters within the body, and the biophysical properties of cells, tissues, and organs. Basic concepts in cell and membrane physiology are synthesized through exploring the function of skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscle. The physical basis of blood flow, mechanisms of vascular exchange, cardiac performance, and regulation of overall circulatory function are discussed. Respiratory physiology explores the mechanics of ventilation, gas diffusion, and acid-base balance. Renal physiology examines the formation and composition of urine and the regulation of electrolyte, fluid, and acid-base balance. Organs of the digestive system are discussed from the perspective of substrate metabolism and energy balance. Hormonal regulation is applied to metabolic control and to calcium, water, and electrolyte balance. The biology of nerve cells is addressed with emphasis on synaptic transmission and simple neuronal circuits within the central nervous system. The special senses are considered in the framework of sensory transduction. Weekly discussion sections provide a forum for in-depth exploration of topics. Graduate students evaluate research findings through literature review and weekly meetings with the instructor. Also C&MP 550a, ENAS 550au.
MCDB 551au,Experimental Strategies in Molecular Cell Biology. Mark Mooseker.
HTBA
A combination of lectures, in-class paper discussions, and problem-solving sessions that emphasize experimental approaches as they have been applied to major problems in cell biology over the past four decades. Topics include key experimental methods, evaluation of primary literature, and experimental design and strategies.
MCDB 555au,Molecular Basis of Development. Xing-Wang Deng, Martín García-Castro, Scott Holley, Frank Slack, Weimin Zhong.
TTh 2.30–3.45
Current understanding of the molecular mechanism of cell signaling and development in multicellular organisms. Topics include the basics of cell signaling and experimental model organisms, cell proliferation and death, cell specification and determination, cell migration, hormonal regulation, and environmental regulation.
MCDB 560bu,Cellular and Molecular Physiology: Molecular Machines in Human Disease. Emile Boulpaep, Fred Sigworth.
MWF 9.25–10.15
This course focuses on understanding the processes that transfer molecules across membranes at the cellular, molecular, biophysical, and physiologic levels. Students learn about the different classes of molecular machines that mediate membrane transport, generate electrical currents, or perform mechanical displacement. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between the molecular structures of membrane proteins and their individual functions. The interactions among transport proteins in determining the physiologic behaviors of cells and tissues are also stressed. Molecular motors are introduced and their mechanical relationship to cell function is explored. Students read papers from the scientific literature that establish the connections between mutations in genes encoding membrane proteins and a wide variety of human genetic diseases. Also C&MP 560b, ENAS 570bu.
MCDB 570bu,Biotechnology. Michael Snyder, Kenneth Nelson, Joseph Wolenski, Ronald Breaker.
MW 11.35–12.50
The principles and applications of cellular, molecular, and chemical techniques that advance biotechnology. Topics include the most recent tools and strategies used by government agencies, industrial labs, and academic research to adapt biological and chemical compounds as medical treatments, industrial agents, or for the further study of biological systems.
MCDB 600Lb, Advanced Biological Techniques. Michael Snyder, Xing-Wang Deng, Martin Garcia-Castro, Kenneth Nelson, Eugene Davidov, Janie Merkel.
MW 1–5
A laboratory course to familarize graduate students with state-of-the-art technologies in molecular biology, genomics. Students carry out research projects and incorporate their own projects into the lab. The class meets for two afternoons each week and consists of two- to three-week modules covering the following topics: microarray analysis, plant genetic engineering, mouse genetic engineering, imaging/microscopy, ribozyme enzymol/engineering, phage display/chemical biology.
MCDB 602a, Molecular Cell Biology. Sandra Wolin, Thomas Pollard, Peter Novick, Craig Crews, and faculty.
MW 1.45–3
A comprehensive introduction to the molecular and mechanistic aspects of cell biology for graduate students in all programs. Emphasizes fundamental issues of cellular organization, regulation, biogenesis, and function at the molecular level. Also CBIO 602a, MB&B 602a.
MCDB 603a, Seminar in Molecular Cell Biology. Sandra Wolin, Thomas Pollard, Peter Novick, Craig Crews, and faculty.
Th 9–11
A graduate-level seminar course in modern cell biology. The class is devoted to the reading and critical evaluation of classical and current papers. The topics are coordinated with the MCDB 602a lecture schedule. Thus, concurrent or previous enrollment in MCDB 602a is required. Also CBIO 603a.
MCDB 625au,Basic Concepts of Genetic Analysis. Tian Xu, Tae-Hoon Kim, Michael Koelle, Richard Lifton, Valerie Reinke, Shirleen Roeder.
MW 11.35–12.50
The universal principles of genetic analysis in eukaryotes are discussed in lectures. Students also read a small selection of primary papers illustrating the very best of genetic analysis and dissect them in detail in the discussion sections. While other Yale graduate molecular genetics courses emphasize molecular biology, this course focuses on the concepts and logic underlying modern genetic analysis. Also GENE 625a, MB&B 625au.
MCDB 630b, Biochemical and Biophysical Approaches in Molecular and Cellular Biology. Thomas Pollard, Enrique De La Cruz, and staff.
TTh 2.30–3.45
This graduate course introduces the theory and application of biochemical and biophysical methods to study the structure and function of biological macromolecules. The course considers the basic physical chemistry required in cellular and molecular biology but does not require a previous course in physical chemistry. One class per week is a lecture introducing a topic. The second class is a discussion of one or two research papers utilizing those methods. Also MB&B 630b.
MCDB 642a, Roles of Microorganisms in the Living World. L. Nicholas Ornston, Diane McMahon-Pratt, Dieter Söll.
TTh 11.35–12.50
A topical course exploring the biology of microorganisms. Emphasis on mechanisms underlying microbial adaptations and how they influence biological systems. Also EMD 642a, GENE 642a, MBIO 642a.
MCDB 660a, Structure, Function, and Development of Vascular Plants. Graeme Berlyn.
TTh 2.30–3.45
Morphogenesis and adaptation of vascular plants considered from seed formation and germination to maturity. Physiological and developmental processes associated with structural changes in response to environment discussed from both a phylogenetic and an adaptive point of view.
[MCDB 670b, Advanced Seminar in Biochemistry and Genetics.]
MCDB 675b, Advances in Plant Molecular Biology. Vivian Irish.
M 7–8.50 p.m.
Discussion and critical evaluation of selected research papers emphasizing recent advances in plant molecular biology. Topics to be covered include molecular genetic approaches to dissecting signaling events, pattern formation, epigenetic control of plant growth and plant biotechnology, focusing on higher plants and model plant systems.
MCDB 677b, Mechanisms of Development. Valerie Reinke, Lynn Cooley, Xing-Wang Deng, Michael Stern, Zhaoxia Sun.
M 9–10.15, F 2.30–3.45
An advanced course on the mechanisms of animal development focusing on the genetic specification of cell organization and identity during embryogenesis and somatic differentiation. The use of evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways to carry out developmental decisions in a range of animals is highlighted. Course work includes student presentations, critical analysis of primary literature, and a research proposal term paper. Also GENE 777b.
MCDB 720au,Neurobiology. Haig Keshishian, Paul Forscher.
MWF 11.35–12.25
Examination of the excitability of the nerve cell membrane as a starting point for the study of molecular, cellular, and intercellular mechanisms underlying the generation and control of behavior. Also NBIO 720a, NSCI 720a.
MCDB 721Lau,Laboratory for Neurobiology. Haig Keshishian, Robert Wyman.
T or W 1.30–6
Optional laboratory. Introduction to the neurosciences. Projects include the study of neuronal excitability, sensory transduction, CNS function, synaptic physiology, and neuroanatomy.
[MCDB 730bu,Biology of the Neuron.]
MCDB 735bu,Seminar in Brain Development and Plasticity. Weimin Zhong.
MW 2.30–3.45
Weekly seminars and discussion sessions to explore recent advances in our understanding of brain development and plasticity, including neuronal determination, axon guidance, synaptogenesis, and developmental plasticity. Also NSCI 504b.
MCDB 743b, Advanced Eukaryotic Molecular Biology. Mark Hochstrasser, Anthony Koleske, Patrick Sung.
TTh 11.35–12.50
Selected topics in transcriptional control, regulation of chromatin structure, mRNA processing, mRNA stability, RNA interference, translation, protein degradation, DNA replication, DNA repair, site-specific DNA recombination, somatic hypermutation. Prerequisite: biochemistry or permission of the instructor. Also GENE 743b, MB&B 743bu.
MCDB 750a, Core Topics in Biomedical Informatics. Perry Miller and staff.
HTBA
Introduction to common unifying themes that serve as the foundation for different areas of biomedical informatics, including clinical, neuro-, and genome informatics. The course is designed for students with significant computer experience and course work who plan to build computational tools for use in bioscience research. Emphasis is on understanding basic principles underlying informatics approaches to biomedical data modeling, interoperation among biomedical databases and software tools, standardized biomedical vocabularies and ontologies, modeling of biological systems, and other topics of interest. The course involves lectures, class discussions, student presentations, and computer programming assignments. Prerequisite: previous computer programming experience and permission of the instructor. Also CB&B 750a.
MCDB 752bu,Genomics and Bioinformatics. Dieter Söll, Mark Gerstein, Michael Snyder.
MW 1–2.15
Genomics describes the determination of the nucleotide sequence and many further analyses to discover functional and structural information on all the genes of an organism. Topics include the methods and results of functional and structural gene analysis on a genome-wide scale as well as a discussion of the implications of this research. Bioinformatics describes the computational analysis of genomes and macromolecular structures on a large scale. Topics include sequence alignment, biological database design, geometric analysis of protein structure, and macromolecular simulation. Also CB&B 752b, CPSC 752bu,MB&B 752bu.
[MCDB 861bu,Global Problems of Population Growth.]
MCDB 900a, First-Year Introduction to Research. Frank Slack.
Lab rotations, grant writing, and ethics for Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics, and Development track students. Also CBIO 900a, GENE 900a.
MCDB 901b, First-Year Introduction to Research. Faculty.
Lab rotations and ethics for Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics, and Development track students. Also CBIO 901b, GENE 901b.
MCDB 950a and 951b, Second-Year Research.
By arrangement with faculty.
The following courses are required for students in the joint B.S./M.S. program with Yale College:
MCDB 585b, Research in MCDB for B.S./M.S. Candidates.
A two-credit course taken in the third-to-last term (typically the second term of the junior year). At the start of this course, each student forms a committee composed of their adviser and two faculty members that meets to discuss the research project. At the end of this course, students complete a detailed prospectus describing their thesis project and the work completed thus far. The committee evaluates an oral and written presentation of this prospectus; the evaluation determines whether the student may continue in the combined program.
MCDB 595, Intensive Research in MCDB for B.S./M.S. Candidates.
A four-credit, yearlong course (two credits each term) that is similar to MCDB 495 and is taken during the senior year. During this course, students give an oral presentation describing their work. At the end of the course, a student is expected to present his or her work to the department in the form of a poster presentation. In addition, the student is expected to give an oral thesis defense, followed by a comprehensive examination of the thesis conducted by the thesis committee. Upon successful completion of this examination, as well as other requirements, the student is awarded the combined B.S./M.S. degree.
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