Admissions
Students interested in the Biochemistry and Biophysics PhD Program apply through the Biological and Biomedical Sciences Program (BBSP), the umbrella admissions program for 14 biomedical graduate programs at UNC.
During the first year, BBSP students can explore research opportunities, complete laboratory rotations, and take courses across participating programs. BBSP students must complete three lab rotations, each lasting about eleven weeks. Students can choose from over 300 laboratories in any of the 15 participating PhD programs. At the end of the first year, students choose their thesis lab from one of their lab rotations, where they will complete their PhD training. Students interested in a PhD in Biochemistry and Biophysics may begin taking departmental coursework during their first year while also exploring courses offered through other programs and are strongly encouraged to rotate in at least one laboratory of a full or jointly-appointed BCBP faculty member within the department. To view BCBP faculty who are accepting rotating students, please visit the faculty page.
BCBP graduates pursue successful careers in academia, industry, government, science policy, education, and other research-related fields. To learn more about career outcomes for graduates of the Biochemistry and Biophysics Graduate Program, visit the BBSP Alumni Career Outcomes page and select Biochemistry and Biophysics from the program list.
Application Process
Applications to the Biochemistry and Biophysics PhD Program are submitted through BBSP. Please visit the BBSP admissions page for application requirements, deadlines, and instructions.
Admitted students interested in the Molecular and Cellular Biophysics Program certificate must submit a separate application. Learn more here.
Admitted students interested in the Chromatin and Epigenetics Program certificate must submit a separate application. Learn more here.
Financial Support
All BBSP students receive a competitive annual stipend, as well as full tuition, fees, and health insurance coverage. Stipend levels are reviewed annually to remain competitive with peer institutions and aligned with the cost of living in Chapel Hill.
Learn more about funding and financial support on the BBSP Financial Support page.