Chemistry and Biochemistry 2007/2008
Why study chemistry at the University of Denver? Consider these advantages:
- excellent, research-active faculty
- small classes, personal attention
- first-rate teaching facilities
- modern equipment
At the University of Denver, we offer the training and amenities to energize your graduate experience—and help you develop into a professional scientist.
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers programs leading to MA, MS or PhD degrees in the areas of analytical, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, and biochemistry.
Our faculty members actively involve students in research programs supported with more than $1.5 million in annual funding from federal agencies, state governments and private industries.
In our programs, you will enjoy the benefits of a friendly, personalized learning environment that offers nationally competitive, extremely productive research opportunities.
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry has much to offer the chemistry graduate student: close and frequent student-faculty interaction; an integrated program of courses; and excellent equipment and facilities including 400 MHz NMR, multiple EPR spectrometers, PiStar 180 CD/Stopped flow, ESI and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometers, step-scan FTIR, photon counting lifetime fluorscence, and nano-second laser flash photolysis. Faculty research interests encompass theoretical and experimental work in biophysical, organic, inorganic, and analytical chemistry and biochemistry. The department's relatively small size allows a broader, more interdisciplinary approach than in large departments. Our instructional format merges traditional disciplines into interdisciplinary courses that more closely reflect current trends in chemistry.
ADDENDUM: Updates and Changes to Our Graduate Brochure
PLEASE WELCOME OUR NEW CHAIR!
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is happy to announce the arrival of our new professor and chair, Lawrence J. Berliner. Dr. Berliner has taught chemistry, biochemistry, and biophysics previously at Ohio State University. An introduction to his research interests can be found at the left. For an overview of all of our faculty’s research interests and publications, visit our web pages at: http://www.du.edu/chemistry/
LAWRENCE J. BERLINER
Chair
Biochemistry and Biophysics
PhD 1967, Stanford University
One of our overall research goals is to understand structure/function relationships in proteins and enzymes. Our approaches involve the applications of magnetic resonance (NMR, ESR) and fluorescence techniques, which shed light on the dynamic aspects of biological structure in solution. Another interest is in the detection and characterization of free radicals in biology and medicine. This exemplifies our need for an interdisciplinary team of researchers spanning molecular biology, biochemistry, enzymology, instrumentation development, biological spectroscopy, physiologists, and organic syntheses.
Our current interests fall into two areas: enzymes involved in lactation (lactose synthase) and in vivo ESR imaging. Lactose synthase is an enzyme-protein complex from milk which catalyzes the biosynthesis of lactose. The enzyme component, galactosyl transferase, alone catalyzes the formulation of N-acetyl-lactosamine in the absence of the protein alpha-lactalbumin. We are studying the structure and mechanism of both components of this complex. Our research approaches also involve genetic engineering and bioinorganic chemistry since -lactalbumin is a calcium binding protein which binds several metal cations. The work on free radicals involves the detection, characterization and biology of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide and persistent radical intermediates of drug metabolism.
Chemistry And Biochemistry
F.W. Olin Hall, Room 202
2190 E Iliff Ave.
Denver, Co 80208
303-871-2435
www.du.edu/chemistry
F.W. Olin Hall, Room 202
2190 E Iliff Ave.
Denver, Co 80208
303-871-2435
www.du.edu/chemistry
Application Requirements and Deadlines
| Program | Degrees Offered | Number of Credits | Full Time/Part Time | Tests Required—Min. Scores |
| Chemistry and Biochemistry | MA | 45 | FT | TOEFL — 80/213/550 (IBT/CBT/PBT) |
| MS | 45 | FT | GRE — varies | |
| PhD | 90 | FT |
International Applicants
For complete international applicant information, please visit the Office of International Admission site.
DU offers extensive support for international students seeking to learn English or improve their English language skills. Visit the English Language Center’s Web site for more information.
Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
Applicants must request that Educational Testing Services forward results to the University of Denver, Office of Graduate Admission. The institution code for the University of Denver is R4842. For information concerning GRE registration please visit www.gre.org or contact:
Graduate Record Examination
Educational Testing Service
P. O. Box 6000
Princeton, NJ 08541-6000
609-771-7670
Applicants should take the entrance exam well in advance of their intended application date. Please allow at least 14 business days for your general test scores and six weeks for your subject test scores to be received. Several departments and schools will not process applications until scores have been received. Entrance exam scores older than five years from the date of the application may not be acceptable for admission. Contact the department for specific requirements.
Application fees
A $60 application fee is required. This is a nonrefundable application fee, (bank draft or personal check) drawn on a U.S. bank, that covers the cost of processing application materials. A credit card payment is acceptable for online applications only. Applications will not be processed until this fee is paid. No waivers or deferrals are allowed.
Transcripts
Applicants are required to submit two official transcripts from each postsecondary institution they have attended, or are presently attending, where 2 quarter hours (or 1 semester hour) or more, were completed.
The University is not responsible for obtaining an applicant's transcripts, including any record of work completed at the University of Denver. Applicants must also account for any study undertaken outside the United States.
An official transcript must include the original signature of the registrar and/or the seal of the issuing institution, and must be enclosed in an envelope with the stamp or signature of the registrar across the sealed flap. Proof of a bachelor's, and if applicable, a master's degree is required from a regionally accredited college or university. Requested transcripts should be mailed to the applicant and submitted to the University of Denver with supplemental admission materials. Please do not request transcripts to be mailed directly to the University of Denver from other institutions.
All credentials submitted become property of the University of Denver and cannot be copied or returned to the student or any person(s).
Letters of recommendation
Three (3) letters of recommendation are required. All recommendations are to be included with application materials.
Essay
You should submit a personal statement of at least 300 words. Your essay should include information concerning your life, education, practical experience, special interests and specific purpose in applying to the University of Denver.
Mailing address
Mail all supplemental admission materials, including official transcripts, in one package to:
University of Denver
Office of Graduate Admission
University Hall, Room 216
2197 S. University Blvd.
Denver, CO 80208
Dear prospective student,
Thank you for your inquiry concerning the graduate program in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Denver (DU). There are several ways in which you can obtain information and then apply to the Graduate Program at the University of Denver. The Department's web page (http://www.du.edu/chemistry/) is the suggested starting point. This page contains information about:
- The Graduate Program in Chemistry and Biochemistry including complete descriptions of the MA, MS, and Ph.D. programs, entrance requirements, and all requirements for completion of a graduate degree.
- Course descriptions for all courses offered in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Research interests, teaching commitments, and a list of recent publications for each faculty member in the department. Email addresses are also included. You can apply to the University of Denver's Graduate Program: Download an application using your web browser, fill it out and submit it to the University of Denver Office of Graduate Admissions. To do this, you must have the word processing program "Microsoft Word". The web address for the application is: http://www.du.edu/grad/onlineapp.html. We also request that you send information to the Department as described in this message. There are several web sites that offer in-depth information about the state of Colorado or the city of Denver: http://www.colorado.com http://www.boulevards.com/denver http://www.denver.org
WHAT TO SUBMIT:
Many requests for application materials mention the need for financial assistance. Although some financial assistance is available in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, it is highly competitive. Unfortunately, the Graduate School will not waive the $50 application fee, and applicants will not be considered for acceptance and/or departmental financial assistance until application materials are complete and the application fee has been received. Please notice that we are asking you to send some application materials to the Graduate Admissions Office and some materials directly to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. We have found this system useful since it allows us to begin screening applications as soon as they come into the Department instead of waiting several weeks while the Office of Graduate Admissions processes the applications. However, it is important that Graduate Admissions receives your application, application fee, and the official transcripts directly. So, please have the following sent directly to: Office of Graduate Admissions University of Denver Denver, CO 80208 USA
- Application for Graduate Studies (or submit your application electronically)
- Application Fee ($50)
- Official Transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended (PLEASE NOTE: Translated and untranslated transcripts are required along with proof of degree)
- Official GRE and TOEFL scores
- Three letters of recommendation from people familiar with your potential in the area of Chemistry
Also send the following to
Graduate Admissions
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
University of Denver
2190 E. Iliff Ave.
Denver, CO 80208 USA
- Departmental Information Sheet
- Graduate Applicant Personal Statement:
Tell us about your goals in attending graduate school. What area or areas of chemistry are you most interested in? What do you hope to do after you complete your graduate studies? Why do you enjoy chemistry?
Tell us about any research or teaching experience you have had. Have you been involved in an undergraduate research project during the academic year or in the summer? Have you had a summer job or internship in a commercial lab? Have you had experience in teaching as a grader, a lab teaching assistant or a lab preparatory assistant?
Tell us anything else you think will help us in evaluating your application.
Thank you for your interest in our Department. If we can provide any further information about the Department do not hesitate to email me at: geaton@du.edu
Sincerely,
Gareth Eaton
Professor
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Scholarship and Financial Aid
Chemistry and Biochemistry students are provided financial support as teaching assistants or research assistants. Both positions provide a full tuition waiver and a $22,000 stipend for the 2006-2007 academic year.
Degree Requirements
Joint Research Collaborations
These are currently interdepartmental graduate degrees where the student is admitted into one of the participating departments (chemistry & biochemistry, engineering, biological sciences, physics) but fulfills the PhD or master's degree course requirements of the specialization. Currently the actual degree is through an individual department, but the student receives certification from the graduate school on his/her grade transcript certifying the joint course of study. See the individual Web sites for each department or the biophysics or biomedical engineering (www.chemistry. du.edu/biophysics.html or www.chemistry.du.edu/bioengine.html) Web sites for more specifics.
Degree Requirements
Master of Arts in Chemistry
The MA degree is intended primarily to meet the needs of students working full time in industry or secondary education who are seeking an advanced degree with only a small research component. The primary difference between the MA and the MS is that a research thesis is required for the MS degree.
Credit-Hour Requirements
A minimum of 45 credit hours, of which a minimum of 35 hours must be earned at the University of Denver.
Course Requirements
The graduate core curriculum must be completed with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. If it is appropriate, and approved by the graduate committee, other graduate courses may be substituted for part of the graduate core curriculum.
Independent Study and /or Research
A minimum of 6 credit hours of Independent Study and/or Independent Research approved by the student's advisory committee must be completed.
Courses in Other Departments
A minimum of 35 credit hours must be taken in courses offered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Up to 10 credit hours may be taken in science-related 3000- to 4000-level courses approved by the student's advisory committee.
Seminars
All students in the MA degree program must present a technical seminar.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
Chemical Systems (three-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3110 (Chemical Systems I)
- CHEM 3120 (Chemical Systems II)
- CHEM 3130 (Chemical Systems III)
Molecular Structure and Energetics (two-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3310 (Molecular Structure and Energetics I)
- CHEM 3320 (Molecular Structure and Energetics II)
Biochemistry (two-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3811 (Biochemistry/Proteins)
- CHEM 3812 (Biochemistry/Membranes and Metabolism)
Analytical
- CHEM 3220 (Advanced Analytical Chemistry)
One Advanced Topics Course
- Chem 4400 or 4800 and other advanced topics if preapproved by the graduate committee
Independent Study and/or Independent Research
(Minimum 6 quarter hours — repeats allowed)
- CHEM 4991 (Independent Study) and/or
- (Independent Research) now CHEM 4995
Degree Requirements
Master of Science in Chemistry
The MS degree is intended for students who want an advanced degree in chemistry primarily for the purpose of better preparation to conduct research or to fill higher level industrial chemist positions.
Credit -Hour Requirements
A minimum of 45 credit hours, of which a minimum of 35 hours must be earned at the University of Denver.
Course Requirements
The graduate core curriculum must be completed with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Seminars
All students in the MS program must present one departmental “nonthesis”
seminar in addition to the thesis seminar.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
Chemical Systems (three-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3110 (Chemical Systems I)
- CHEM 3120 (Chemical Systems II)
- CHEM 3130 (Chemical Systems III)
Molecular Structure and Energetics (two-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3310 (Molecular Structure and Energetics I)
- CHEM 3320 (Molecular Structure and Energetics II)
Biochemistry (two-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3811 (Biochemistry/Proteins)
- CHEM 3812 (Biochemistry/Membranes and Metabolism)
Analytical
- CHEM 3220 (Advanced Analytical Chemistry)
One Advanced Topics Course
- Chem 4400 or 4800 and other advanced topics if preapproved by the graduate committee
Independent Study and/or Independent Research (Minimum 6 quarter hours – repeats allowed)
- CHEM 4991 (Independent Study) and/or (Independent Research) now CHEM 4995
Degree Requirements
The PhD is the highest degree awarded and is intended for students seeking a career in scientific research. The ultimate aim of this degree is to train a scientist for a career that involves original research.
Credit-Hour Requirements
A total of 90 quarter hours, of which a minimum of 75 hours must be earned at the University of Denver. Because a PhD in chemistry is primarily a degree in which competence in research is learned and demonstrated, a large percentage of these hours are earned as credit for research (CHEM 5995). The formal or classroom course requirements are the same as those for the MS degree.
Course Requirements
The graduate curriculum must be completed with a grade point average of 3.0 or better.
Qualifying Examinations
All students in the PhD program are required to take a qualifying examination at the end of the spring quarter following their first September in residence. This examination covers the material presented in the core curriculum, with each course contributing 100 points. To qualify for continuance in the program, the student must score at least 500 out of 800 points. The faculty will meet to discuss exam results and decide whether the candidate will continue in the PhD program.
Cumulative Examinations
The PhD candidate must complete the cumulative examination requirement by the seventh quarter in residence. These examinations are prepared from topics appearing in the current literature and fundamental materials found in review articles.
Oral Examination
By the end of the eighth quarter in residence, the student should give an oral presentation of an original research proposal in an area of his/her choice. This proposal will usually focus on the student's chosen subdiscipline and should not be too closely related to any ongoing research in the department. After the public presentation, the student will defend the proposal before a committee of five faculty members (the advisory committee and two additional members).
Dissertation
A dissertation of publishable quality based on the student's original research must be completed. A summary of the dissertation is presented in a public seminar and later defended in a private oral examination. The dissertation examination committee will consist of the three members of the student's advisory committee, one additional member of the chemistry faculty to be selected by the advisory committee, and an outside chair.
Seminars
All students in the PhD program are expected to present a departmental "non-thesis" seminar. This seminar should be presented fairly early in the degree program. In addition, the student must present public seminars as part of the proposition oral exam and final thesis defense.
Degre Requirements:
- 90 graduate-level quarter hours
- Minimum of 70 graduate level quarter hours must be in CHEM
- Maximum of 20 quarter hours may be outside of CHEM, but within Natural Sciences (BIOL, MATH, GEOG, PHYS prefixes)
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
Chemical Systems (three-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3110 (Chemical Systems I)
- CHEM 3120 (Chemical Systems II)
- CHEM 3130 (Chemical Systems III)
Molecular Structure and Energetics (two-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3310 (Molecular Structure and Energetics I)
- CHEM 3320 (Molecular Structure and Energetics II)
Biochemistry (two-quarter sequence)
- CHEM 3811 (Biochemistry/Proteins)
- CHEM 3812 (Biochemistry/Membranes and Metabolism)
Analytical
- CHEM 3220 (Advanced Analytical Chemistry)
One Advanced Topics Course
- Chem 4400 or 4800 and other advanced topics if preapproved by the graduate committee
Independent Study and/or Independent Research
(Minimum 6 quarter hours — repeats allowed)
- CHEM 4991 (Independent Study) and/or
- (Independent Research) CHEM 5995
Course Descriptions
Each graduate student must enroll in one of the following advanced topics courses which are offered in alternate years.
CHEM 4100 Advanced Topics: Inorganic Chemistry
Selected topics, including material from current literature. May be taken for credit more than once.
1–3 qtr. hrs.
CHEM 4200 Advanced Topics: Analytical Chemistry
In-depth coverage of selected topics such as atmospheric chemistry, selected spectroscopic or other techniques. May be taken for credit more than once.
1–3 qtr. hrs.
CHEM 4400 Advanced Topics: Organic Chemistry
Physical organic chemistry; reaction mechanisms, structure reactivity relationships, kinetics, photochemistry, molecular orbital theory, etc.; current literature. May be taken for credit more than once.
1–3 qtr. hrs.
CHEM 4600 Advanced Topics: Physical Chemistry
Spectroscopy, theoretical chemistry, solid state, electrochemistry and catalysis, etc.; current literature. May be taken for credit more than once.
1–3 qtr. hrs.
CHEM 48 00 Advanced Topics in Biochemistry
Current literature in an area of particular interest, e.g., biosynthesis of macromolecules or biochemical genetics; one topic each quarter selected to meet needs of advanced students. May be taken for credit more than once.
1–3 qtr. hrs.
The following are required after core course work is completed.
CHEM 4900 Chemistry Seminar
A weekly presentation of research in progress and of current literature by outside speakers, faculty and graduate students.
1 qtr. hr.
CHEM 491 Independent Study
CHEM 495 Independent Research
Faculty
Lawrence J. Berliner
professor and chair
PhD, Stanford University
Bruce E. Bowler
professor
PhD, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Gareth R. Eaton
professor
PhD, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Sandra S. Eaton
professor
PhD, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Julanna V. Gilbert
associate professor and director of the Center for Teaching & Learning
PhD, University of Colorado
Joseph M. Hornback
professor
PhD, Ohio State University
Andrei G. Kutateladze
associate professor
PhD, Moscow State University
Keith E. Miller
assistant professor
PhD, University of Washington
Balasingam Murugaverl
lecturer/lab coordinator
PhD, University of Denver
Dwight M. Smith
research professor and chancellor emeritus
PhD, Pennsylvania State University
Donald H. Stedman
Phillipson Professor
PhD, University of East Anglia
Todd Wells
assistant professor
PhD, University of Nebraska
Sheldon S. York
associate professor
PhD, Stanford University