Department of Biological Sciences
Science and Technology Center (McNulty Hall)
(973) 761-9044
shu.edu/biology/
Faculty: Bitsaktsis; Calianese; Chu (Director of Graduate Studies); Cottrell (Chair); Hill; Klaus; Ko; Martin; Nichols (Director of Health Professions); Varandas; Zhou
Faculty Associates: Baglio, Ranasinghe; Tall
Lecturers: Dias, Pettit
Faculty Retired and Emeritus: Blake; Glenn*; Hsu*; Moldow; Rabacchi
Programs of Study
The Department of Biological Sciences offers graduate programs leading to the following degrees: Master of Molecular Bioscience (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Molecular Bioscience.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Molecular Bioscience and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Molecular Bioscience programs in the Department of Biological Sciences offer a rigorous and up-to-date curriculum in biological sciences. The programs are supported by a diverse and accomplished faculty known for their teaching and scholarly activities.
Both programs combine academic coursework, research opportunities, and professional development to prepare students for careers in science, industry, and academia. The M.S. program offers a degree in Molecular Biosciences, with concentrations available in Neuroscience or Microbiology, and options for either a Research or Library Thesis. The Ph.D. program focuses on molecular and cellular biotechnology applied to living systems, providing students with a strong foundation in research and teaching.
For more details on faculty research interests, please refer to the Department of Biological Sciences Faculty page: https://www.shu.edu/biology/faculty.html.
General Academic Requirements
Academic deficiencies must be made up during the first year of graduate study and before taking graduate courses for which the deficiency areas are prerequisites; these courses will not be credited toward the graduate degree.
Admission as a non-matriculated student (limited to 12 credits) may be granted pending the evaluation of an application submitted before the admission deadline.
General Admission for Biology Graduate Programs
In addition to the general University requirements for admission to graduate studies, the Department of Biological Sciences requires the below:
- A B.S. in a biological science or related science with a GPA of 3.0 or above.
- A minimum of 24 credits in biology, with adequate laboratory time; 16 credits in chemistry, including organic, with adequate laboratory time; 8 credits in physics, with laboratory; 6-8 credits in mathematics beyond pre-calculus.
- Résumé and personal statement describing candidate’s scientific background, including previous laboratory training from coursework or work experience, and career goals are required.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Submission of Graduate Record Examination scores (minimum 50th percentile, general exam) are required for:
- all applicants whose degrees were earned at institutions outside the U.S.
- all Ph.D. program applicants.
- Foreign students must provide proper immigration documents and an evaluation of academic records by the World Education Service (WES). They must score at least 75% of the maximum possible on the TOEFL examination (minimum 80% of maximum possible to be eligible for a Teaching Assistantship) or a minimum overall band score of 7 on IELTS.
General Degree Requirements
Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all coursework completed toward their master’s and doctoral degrees at Seton Hall University. Students must complete all required credits and thesis components specified for their degree. Detailed requirements are outlined in the Master’s and Ph.D. in Molecular Bioscience Guidelines for the department. A copy of these guidelines is available from the Director of Graduate Studies.
Biology
BIOL 6110 Writing in Biological Sciences (3 Credits)
BIOL 6113 Biostatistics (3 Credits)
Elementary statistical methods as applied to experimental biology. Topics include hypotheses testing, probability and chi square, linear regression and correlation, analyses of variance, nonparametric statistics and bioassay. Introduction to use of computers in analysis of biological data.
BIOL 6115 Fundamentals of Neuroscience (3 Credits)
This introductory course provides an overview of the structure and function of the human nervous system. Emphasis is placed on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neural transmission, connectivity, integration of the sensory motor systems, cognitive functions and behavior.
BIOL 6201 Research Methods I (4 Credits)
This laboratory-based course provides training in core molecular biology, microbial, and cell culture techniques commonly employed in biological research laboratories. Students will develop proficiency in sterile technique, culture methods, and basic molecular assays while learning principles of experimental planning, reproducibility, and scientific documentation.
BIOL 6216 Recombinant DNA Technology (3 Credits)
Basic techniques used in recombinant DNA studies. Hands on experience with DNA isolation, hybrid plasmid production, restriction mapping and clone selection and characterization. Lecture will focus on theory and applications of recombinant DNA technology, including: vector design, PCR strategies, bioinformatics and DNA structure. Prerequisite: Genetics, Microbiology, Molecular Biology or Biochemistry. Prerequisite: Genetics, Microbiology or Biochemistry.
BIOL 6231 Molecular Biology (3 Credits)
Study of structure and function of macromolecules. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic genome. Bacterial and bacteriophage genetics, mutation and gene expression. Genetic code, transcription, translation and the regulatory systems. Replication of viruses, genetic programming and biotechnology. Review of research papers and discussion of current topics. Prerequisite: Genetics or Biochemistry.
BIOL 6233 Biochemistry of Metabolism (3 Credits)
Synthesis and degradation of organic molecules in living systems, especially Man. Dietary, medical and genetic aspects of metabolism. Integration and regulation of pathways. Includes metabolic activities restricted to plants and microorganisms; representative antibiotics, toxins and drugs. Lecture only.
BIOL 6242 Immunology (3 Credits)
Principles of recognition, memory and specificity. Structural basis of antigenicity. Development of the immune system. Structure function and genetics of immunoglobulins, gammopathies and monoclonal antibodies. T-cell receptors and MHC antigens. Activation of lymphoid cells, tolerance, autoimmunity and regulation of the immune system. Complement system, aspects of clinical and diagnostic immunology, tissue typing and immunogenetics. A term paper is required.
BIOL 6243 Immunology Laboratory (2 Credits)
Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate the immunological principles of recognition and specificity; in vitro and in vivo antigen-antibody reactions; identification and quantitation of immunoglobulins; tests to illustrate the principles of immunochemistry and immunopathology; cell culture study; hybridoma technique and monoclonal antibodies. Pre- or corequisite: BIOL 6242.
Prerequisites: BIOL 6242 (may be taken concurrently) with a minimum grade of D
BIOL 6323 Neuroendocrinology (3 Credits)
Role of hormones in coordinating homeostasis. Emphasis on neuroendocrinology, including functional neuroanatomy and neuro-chemistry. Study of the mechanism of action of hormones at the cellular and molecular levels. Review and analysis of current literature.
BIOL 6326 Vertebrate Physiology (4 Credits)
A comprehensive coverage of the physiology of cells, organs and organ systems with emphasis on the underlying biophysical and biochemical principles of function. Organ systems including nerve, muscle, cardiovascular, respiratory and renal are examined from the standpoint of their regulation and role in maintenance of homeostasis.
BIOL 6333 Cell Culture Techniques (3 Credits)
Discussion and practical application of the in vitro cultivation of animal cells including both general and specific techniques for obtaining, growing and maintenance of clonal cultures.
BIOL 6334 Developmental Biology (3 Credits)
Examination of the mechanisms involved in the emergence of pattern, form and function during the life cycles of organisms. Topics include differential control of gene expression, nucleocytoplasmic interactions, factors and interactions responsible for determining pattern and cell fate, and cellular behaviors responsible for morphogenesis. Prerequisites: Genetics and Cell Biology; Embryology is recommended.
BIOL 6335 Methods in Neuroscience (3 Credits)
The participants in this course will become acquainted with basic concepts and techniques commonly used in Neuroscience to study the organization of neurons, their signaling pathways, and the mechanisms of synaptic transmission, in order to better understand the workings of the human brain.
BIOL 6353 Principles of Immunotherapy (3 Credits)
BIOL 6369 Cancer Biology (3 Credits)
This course brings together and puts into perspective a large body of knowledge about cancer, cancer research and cancer treatment. Specifically, this course will first explore microevolutionary processes to illustrate the nature of cancer and the natural history of the disease from a cellular standpoint. The molecular genetics of cancer will then be dissected to understand how abnormalities in any of the different intracellular signaling pathways of the system can lead to development of cancer. This course will also include a discussion of various cancer treatment approaches to illustrate how basic research translates to clinical aspects of cancer treatment.
BIOL 6412 Molecular Virology (3 Credits)
Basic principles of the virus-host cell relationship presented by lectures and student discussion of recent publications. Topics include mechanisms of viral replication, viral-mediated genetic transfer, viral-induced host changes, including neoplasia and immunologic procedures fundamental to virology.
BIOL 6421 Microbial Physiology (3 Credits)
The normal life functions of microorganisms. The metabolism of E. coli, anaerobes, sulfur bacteria and photosynthetic bacteria as well as one-celled eukaryotes. Emphasis on general principles of physiology and the diversity of microbial solutions to physiological stresses. Includes lectures, text and reading, and discussion of original literature. Offered in alternate years.
BIOL 6422 Microbial Physio Lab (1 Credit)
Practical exercises, both bench methods and computational biology, addressing current techniques for measuring growth and physiology in a variety of microorganisms; use of molecular databases to probe proteomics, metabolimics and other physiological processes.
BIOL 6431 Microbial Genetics (3 Credits)
Examination of the mechanisms of genetic recombination in microorganisms. Genetic changes in microorganisms and the resulting alterations in their biochemical and physiological features.
BIOL 6512 Advanced Imaging (4 Credits)
Students will gain an understanding of (1) the physical design of the compound light microscope and its relationship to image formation; (2) the physics of image formation; and (3) selected biological microscopic imaging techniques. Students will gain mastery of (1) the hands-on use of the compound light microscope, (2) basic sample preparation, (3) quantitative image analysis, and (4) the production of publication-quality images. Students will gain experience in the use of specific biological imaging techniques including wide-field fluorescence and confocal imaging, time-lapse imaging, and three-dimensional volume reconstruction. Three-hour lecture/lab.
BIOL 7112 Intro to Bioinformatics (3 Credits)
This course provides a foundational introduction to bioinformatics, focusing on computational methods for analyzing biological data. Topics include sequence alignment, genome annotation, structural bioinformatics, phylogenetics, and functional genomics. Students will gain hands-on experience with bioinformatics tools, databases, and programming for biological data analysis. Emphasis will be placed on problem-solving, algorithmic approaches, and the interpretation of results in a biological context. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the essential skills to apply computational techniques to biological research.
BIOL 7226 Signal Transduction (3 Credits)
Course brings together and puts into perspective a large body of knowledge about intracellular and intercellular signaling systems as well as cell-cell communication. Explores the molecular and cellular pathways, the components of these pathways, as well as the regulation of these pathways in cellular homeostasis. Current findings from the scientific literature are emphasized. Prerequisite: Cell Biology or Biochemistry.
BIOL 7227 Ethics in Research (3 Credits)
This course is designed to introduce future scientists to topics in research ethics. Emphasis on foundational principles underlying scientific integrity and their application to a range of issues, including data management, animal and human subjects, collaboration, mentoring, peer review, and the ethical implications in different forms of scientific research.
BIOL 7228 Fundamentals of Toxicology (3 Credits)
Principles of toxicology; testing procedures used in toxicology studies, including carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, teratogenesis and immunotoxicology; studies of individual target organs such as the liver and kidney and systems such as cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous and reproductive; studies of risk assessment of toxic substances, such as food additives and pesticides. Prerequisite: Vertebrate Physiology.
BIOL 7291 Select Topics - Mol Biol (1 Credit)
Individualized study of a specific topic in molecular biology to be arranged between instructor and student. Student will research topic and develop a library research paper analyzing current research on the topic. It is required that an oral presentation of the paper will be given during scheduled seminar (BIOL 8202) the following semester.
BIOL 7292 Select Topics- Immunology (1 Credit)
Individualized study of a specific topic in immunology to be arranged between instructor and student. Student will research topic and develop a library research paper analyzing current research on the topic. It is required that an oral presentation of the paper will be given during scheduled seminar (BIOL 8202) the following semester.
BIOL 7293 Select Topics - Genetics (1 Credit)
Individualized study of a specific topic in genetics to be arranged between instructor and student. Student will research topic and develop a library research paper analyzing current research on the topic. It is required that an oral presentation of the paper will be given during scheduled seminar (BIOL 8202) the following semester.
BIOL 7392 Select Topics- Endocrinology (1 Credit)
Individualized study of a specific topic in endocrinology to be arranged between instructor and student. Student will research topic and develop a library research paper analyzing current research on the topic. It is required that an oral presentation of the paper will be given during scheduled seminar (BIOL 8202) the following semester.
BIOL 7423 Industrial Microbiology (3 Credits)
Selection, genetic engineering and utilization of microorganisms in the production of food and drink, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and in agriculture. Emphasis on current techniques used in industry, and the principles and rationale guiding new developments that may become industrial processes of the future. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisites: Microbiology and Biochemistry or Metabolic Pathways.
BIOL 7491 Select Topics-Microbiology (1 Credit)
Individualized study of a specific topic in microbiology to be arranged between instructor and student. Student will research topic and develop a library research paper analyzing current research on the topic. It is required that an oral presentation of the paper will be given during scheduled seminar (BIOL 8202) the following semester.
BIOL 7493 Select Topics-Neuroscience (1 Credit)
Individualized study of a specific topic in neuroscience to be arranged between instructor and student. Student will research topic and develop a library research paper analyzing current research on the topic. It is required that an oral presentation of the paper will be given during scheduled seminar (BIOL 8202) the following semester.
BIOL 7591 Select Topics-Toxicology (1 Credit)
Individualized study of a specific topic in toxicology to be arranged between instructor and student. Student will research topic and develop a library research paper analyzing current research on the topic. It is required that an oral presentation of the paper will be given during scheduled seminar (BIOL 8202) the following semester.
BIOL 8201 Biology Sem for MS Students I (1 Credit)
Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of two semesters and to present their thesis research during this period. Students register for BIOL 8201 in their first year and for BIOL 8202 in the semester that they intend to present their research. Those pursuing the non-thesis option also register for a Selected Topics course (1 credit) usually in the semester before they intend to present their library thesis.
BIOL 8202 Biol Seminar for MS Student II (1 Credit)
Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of two semesters and to present their thesis research during this period. Students register for BIOL 8201 in their first year and for BIOL 8202 in the semester that they intend to present their research. Those pursuing the non-thesis option also register for a Selected Topics course (1 credit) usually in the semester before they intend to present their library thesis.
BIOL 8601 Research for MS Thesis I (3 Credits)
Credit given at completion of project.
BIOL 8602 Res for Master's Thesis II (3 Credits)
Credit given at completion of project.
BIOL 8603 Res for Master's Thesis III (3 Credits)
Credit given at completion of project.
BIOL 8604 Res for Master's Thesis IV (3 Credits)
Credit given at completion of project.
BIOL 8605 Res in Master's Thesis V (3 Credits)
Credit given at completion of project.
BIOL 9011 Read Molecular Bioscience I (2 Credits)
This weekly seminar course focuses on reading and critiquing current literature in molecular bioscience, with students making presentations based on journal articles. Presentations must incorporate technology, and critiques will involve both faculty and peer feedback. Students will develop skills in analyzing primary literature, presenting information, and engaging with audience questions.
BIOL 9012 Molecular Bioscience Readings-II (2 Credits)
This weekly seminar course focuses on reading and critiquing current literature in molecular bioscience, with students making presentations based on journal articles. Presentations must incorporate technology, and critiques will involve both faculty and peer feedback. Students will develop skills in analyzing primary literature, presenting information, and engaging with audience questions.
BIOL 9013 Read Molecular Bioscience III (2 Credits)
A weekly seminar course that includes the reading of current fields. Students will make a presentation based on the literature in subdisciplines of molecular bioscience. Students will be assigned reading from current leading journals in the fields. Students will make a presentation based on the
assigned article. The use of technology in the presentation is mandatory. Discussions will be led by faculty experts in their respective fields. Critiques of the presentation involve both faculty and student participation. Faculty will rotate in teaching the course.
BIOL 9020 Critical Readings & Ethics (3 Credits)
This course explores bioethics and the critical evaluation of scientific literature and publication practices. Topics include scientific integrity, human subjects research, genetic engineering, artificial intelligence in biology, environmental and public health ethics, and biosecurity. Students engage foundational ethical texts—Nicomachean Ethics, Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals, and Utilitarianism—to analyze contemporary case studies in biological research. Through seminars, discussions, and presentations, students develop skills in critically reading scientific work and articulating well-supported ethical arguments.
BIOL 9091 Spec Topics-Biol Res I (2 Credits)
Subject and hours to be arranged. Credit for this course may be obtained only once.
BIOL 9092 Spec Topics-Biol Res II (2 Credits)
Subject and hours to be arranged. Credit for this course may be obtained only once.
BIOL 9093 Spec Topics-Biol Res III (2 Credits)
Subject and hours to be arranged. Credit for this course may be obtained only once.
BIOL 9201 Biol Seminar PHD Student (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9202 Biol Seminar PHD Student II (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9203 Biol Seminar PHD Student III (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9204 Biology Seminar PHD Student IV (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9205 Biol Seminar for PHD Student V (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9206 Biol Sem for PHD Student VI (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9207 Biol Seminar PhD Student VII (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9208 Biol Seminar PhD Student VIII (1 Credit)
Mandatory for all students. Students are required to attend seminar for a minimum of eight semesters. All students are required to present at least one seminar during this period. Students must register for this course in the semester they present a seminar based on their dissertation research.
BIOL 9601 Research for PHD Dissert I (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9602 Research for PHD Dissert II (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9603 Research PHD Dissert III (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9604 Research PHD Dissert IV (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9605 Research PHD Dissert V (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9606 Research PHD Dissert VI (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9607 Reserach PHD Dissert VII (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9608 Research PHD Dissert VIII (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
BIOL 9609 Research for PHD Dissert IX (3 Credits)
Credits given at completion of dissertation.
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