University Bulletin (2024-2025)

• Minor
• Major (BA/BS)
• Combined BA/MA
• Master of Arts
• Master of Science
• Doctor of Philosophy

Undergraduate Major

The chemistry major offers broad training in modern chemistry, covering the major subfields—biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical—and at the same time allows students to pursue their special interest(s). Chemistry is the central science and the chemistry major provides a solid preparation for professional work in chemistry and allied fields; for study at the graduate level in chemistry and in other related fields (biochemistry, environmental science, pharmacology, polymer science, etc.); for professional schools (e.g., medicine, dentistry); and for developing an understanding of the technological and scientific issues challenging our society today—useful professionally in law and business, as well as in everyday life. Chemistry majors are given the opportunity to develop extensive, practical experience through laboratory courses using macro- and microscale techniques. Chemistry majors are encouraged to participate in independent research, which is an important part of a scientific education.

Graduate Program in Chemistry

The graduate program in chemistry, leading to the MA, MS, and PhD degrees, includes course work, seminar participation, research, and teaching, and is designed to lead to a broad understanding of the subject. Entering students may be admitted to either the master’s or the doctoral program. All students will be required to demonstrate knowledge in advanced areas of chemistry. The doctoral program is designed to be flexible so that individual programs of study may be devised to satisfy the particular interests and needs of each student. In each case, this program will be decided by joint consultation between the student, the graduate studies committee, and the thesis supervisor, when selected. The doctoral program will normally include advanced courses in the student’s own area of interest, to be supplemented by suitable courses in other areas of chemistry and, where appropriate, biochemistry, biology, computer science, mathematics, and physics.

Undergraduate Major

Chemistry, often referred to as the “Central Science”, examines the world at the molecular level, allowing us to understand how we interact with plants, animals and humans through agriculture, biology and medicine, and with the physical world through electronics, new materials and new sources of energy. In gaining an understanding of natural phenomena at the molecular level, chemists develop methods to command these phenomena, connecting chemistry with many disciplines including physics, mathematics, earth and environmental sciences, biology, and medicine. Put concisely, the Central Science impacts our planet by protecting and preserving our health, ecology, culture, and heritage.

Chemistry majors develop extensive practical experience through laboratory courses, using both macro- and microscale techniques. Honors students participate in independent research, and virtually all majors take advantage of research opportunities, a critical part of a scientific education. Well-trained BA or BS graduates may continue their education at the highest-ranking graduate and professional schools, and/or enter traditional positions in industry (pharmaceutical, biotech) or academia; some might even pursue less traditional positions in areas as diverse as project management, science journalism, and law.

Students may enroll as BA or BS majors in the Chemistry or Chemical Biology programs or may elect to complete a four-year BA-MA program. Upon successful completion of the chemistry major, graduates will be able to use their molecular-level understanding of phenomena to:

1. Master a broad set of fundamental chemical knowledge in the basic areas of the curriculum (organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry), with further emphasis on selected areas of specialization (chemical biology, materials chemistry or analytical chemistry).
2. Explain experimental observations and data collected from course-related and independent research.
3. Interpret literature data and results using fundamental chemical principles.
4. Use fundamental chemical principles to explain the qualitative and quantitative bases for common laboratory techniques.
5. Select safe and appropriate laboratory techniques and perform the qualitative and quantitative procedures necessary to accomplish research goals.
6. Adapt literature information and procedures to achieve specific research goals.
7. Evaluate conclusions drawn by scholars in the field of chemistry and recognize current limitations in the field.
8. Think critically and creatively about possible approaches to a problem and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches.
9. Collect, interpret, and evaluate disseminated information about scientific problems and current events.
10. Articulate scientific ideas and explain data and conclusions to the scholarly as well as to the lay community.

In addition, graduates participating in research projects will be able to:

1. Design and conduct both literature and safe laboratory research aimed at addressing both broad and specific scientific questions.
2. Pursue an original chemical research project, formulate a thesis, and present results in both written and oral form.

Graduate Program in Chemistry

PhD graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an advanced undergraduate-level understanding of inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry and an in-depth graduate-level knowledge of one or more subareas of chemistry.
2. Search and read the literature of their subarea of chemistry in a thorough and critical fashion.
3. Formulate an original research hypothesis based on the relevant literature and propose a research plan to address the hypothesis.
4. Communicate fundamental knowledge of their field of research, as well as details of their own research, in both written and oral form, to expert and non-expert audiences.
5. Teach chemistry effectively, for those interested in teaching careers.
6. Attain research expertise and complete a significant body of original research that advances a specific field of chemistry.
7. Recognize and practice ethical behavior in the sciences.
8. Be competitive for appropriate positions in industry and academia (e.g., research scientist and postdoctoral fellow).

MS graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an advanced undergraduate-level understanding of inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry and a graduate-level understanding of one or more subareas of chemistry.
2. Search and read the literature of their subarea of chemistry.
3. Communicate scientific results in both written and oral form.
4. Perform research using technical and problem solving skills to contribute to their field.
5. Recognize and practice ethical behavior in the sciences.
6. Be competitive for appropriate positions in industry and high school education.

MA graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an advanced undergraduate-level understanding of inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry and a graduate-level understanding of one or more subareas of chemistry.
2. Search and read the literature of their subarea of chemistry.
3. Recognize and practice ethical behavior in the sciences.
4. Be competitive for appropriate positions in industry and high school education.

The most important qualification for becoming a chemistry major is interest in and enjoyment of chemistry. In chemistry, as in other sciences, courses build on each other; therefore, it is important to begin early. Most students (but not all) take general chemistry and calculus in their first year. Depending upon the track chosen, the chemistry major requires PHYS 10a,b, 11a,b or PHYS 15a,b (Basic Physics I,II), which is a prerequisite for physical chemistry and advanced experimental chemistry. Completing the PHYS requirement by the end of the sophomore year is strongly recommended, as it will allow students to take physical chemistry during their junior year. During the fall term, interested students meet with chemistry faculty and majors at a "meet the majors" gathering called to discuss the major in chemistry. Students should consult with their faculty advisers to develop a program of courses that addresses their needs and interests. To apply for the honors program, a student must select a research adviser and submit a proposed research plan to the department by September 15 of their senior year.

The general requirements for admission to the Graduate School, given in an earlier section of this Bulletin, apply to candidates for admission to the graduate program in chemistry. In addition, the undergraduate curriculum of applicants should include courses in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. Additional details can be found at https://www.brandeis.edu/gsas/programs/chemistry.html.

Thomas Pochapsky, Department Chair
Biological redox enzymes structure and mechanism. Transient interactions in solution by NMR. Biomimetic energy conversion.

Milos Dolnik, Undergraduate Advisor for minors and transfer students
Pattern formation in reaction-diffusion systems. Mathematical modeling of complex chemical reactions and gene networks. Deterministic chaos.

Irving Epstein
Nonlinear chemical dynamics. Spatial pattern formation, oscillations, and chaos in reaction-diffusion systems. Mathematical modeling of biochemical kinetics and neural networks.

Rebecca Gieseking
Development of computational models of electron transfer in complex systems for energy applications. Dynamics of photoinduced electron transfer involving metal nanoclusters. Electrochemical electron transfer for fuel generation and battery recharging.

Grace Han, Chair of the Graduate Admissions Committee
Organic materials for energy applications. Light-responsive molecule synthesis for solar energy harvesting. Phase-change chemistry and materials for low-grade thermal energy storage and release.

Liz Hedstrom
Enzyme structure-function, antimicrobial drug discovery, small molecule induced protein degradation.

Jo-Ann Jee, Undergraduate Advising Head
Organic chemistry, flow chemistry, and chemistry education.

Isaac Krauss
Study of organic synthesis, including its interface with other areas of chemical science, including organometallics and chemical biology.

Stephanie Murray, Undergraduate Advising Head
Chemistry education research. Organic synthesis and reaction development. Enantioselective catalysis.

Claudia Novack
Chemical education.

Klaus Schmidt-Rohr, Chair of the Graduate Studies Committee
Solid-state NMR and structure determination of complex organic materials, including polymers, carbon materials, biomass, and nanocomposites. NMR technique development. Chemical energy and bioenergetics, focused on the high energy of O₂.

Katherine Shulenberger
Development of optical microscopy techniques to understand fundamental nanocrystal properties in device relevant environments.

Chi Ting (on leave, fall 2024)
Total synthesis of natural products. Chemoselective functionalization of peptides. Genome mining and natural product biosynthesis.

Bing Xu (on leave, spring 2025)
Molecular biomaterials. Soft materials for biomedical applications. Biofunctional magnetic nanoparticles for manipulation of cells and proteins.

Hao Xu
Non-precious metal catalysis directed towards organic synthesis. Translational synthetic chemistry. Discovery of new disease targets and therapeutic probes in human biology.

The minor in chemistry consists of:

1. One year of general chemistry and one year of organic chemistry:
   • CHEM 11a and 11b (or CHEM 15a and 15b)
   • CHEM 18a and 18b (or CHEM 19a and 19b)
   • CHEM 25a and 29a
   • CHEM 25b and 29b
2. Two additional four-credit CHEM or CBIO courses that meet the major requirements; BCHM 100a, 101a, 103b, or 104b may be substituted for one of these courses.

Bachelor of Arts

A. Two semesters of general chemistry lectures (CHEM 11a,b or CHEM 15a,b) with laboratory (CHEM 18a,b or CHEM 19a,b) and two semesters of organic chemistry lectures (CHEM 25a,b) with laboratory (CHEM 29a,b).

B. Three semester four-credit lecture courses, at least two of them in CHEM or CBIO, chosen from courses in CHEM numbered 30 or higher or BCHM numbered 100 or higher (including BIOL 105b and NBIO 148b). Courses must include at least one in each of the following two groups: inorganic chemistry (CHEM 121a, 122b), and physical chemistry (CHEM 141a, 142a).

C. Two laboratory courses chosen from CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, or 69a.

D. MATH 10a,b and PHYS 10a,b, 11a,b or 15a,b, which are prerequisites for physical chemistry. Students are urged to complete PHYS 10a,b, 11a,b or 15a,b by the end of their sophomore year. Students with AP credit for MATH 10a,b are advised to take at least one additional MATH course at Brandeis, as is generally expected by professional schools. A recently taken math course may also strengthen preparation for physical chemistry. MATH 15a or MATH 20a is suitable for either the medical school requirements or preparation for physical chemistry. PHYS 11a,b or 15a,b is recommended for students planning to attend graduate school in chemistry. For further information students should discuss their proposed program with the undergraduate advising head.

E. Additional requirements for degree with departmental honors: two semesters of CHEM 99d (Senior Research); a GPA of 3.00 or higher in all courses taken to meet the major requirements, including laboratories. Students must petition the department by September 15 of their senior year to enter the senior honors program. A thesis describing the research must be submitted and accepted by the department for honors to be awarded.

F. Foundational Literacies: As part of completing the Chemistry major, students must:

• Fulfill the writing intensive requirement by successfully completing one of the following: CHEM 39b, CHEM 49a, CHEM 59b, or CHEM 69a.
• Fulfill the oral communication requirement by successfully completing one of the following: CHEM 79a, CHEM 88a, CHEM 94a, CHEM 99d, or CBIO 101a.
• Fulfill the digital literacy requirement by successfully completing one of the following: CHEM 17a, CHEM 18a, CHEM 18b, CHEM 19a, CHEM 19b, or CHEM 29a.

G. Students planning to pursue graduate studies in chemistry should be sure that their program of study includes at least two semesters each of organic chemistry lectures (CHEM 25a,b) and laboratory (CHEM 29a,b), physical chemistry lectures (CHEM 141a, 142a) as well as BCHM 100a. Physics laboratory (PHYS 19a,b) is also advisable.

H. All transfer students must pass satisfactorily a minimum of three chemistry or biochemistry courses at Brandeis at a level of CHEM 25 or higher, with one of the three being CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, or 69a.

I. A student may graduate with a double major in biology and chemistry if the major requirements in each department are fully met.

J. A student may graduate with a double major in chemistry and biochemistry if the major requirements in each department are fully met.

Bachelor of Science

A. Two semesters of general chemistry lectures (CHEM 11a,b or 15a,b) with laboratory (CHEM18a,b or 19a,b).

B. Two semesters of organic chemistry lectures (CHEM 25a,b) with laboratory (29a,b).

C. Two semesters of physical chemistry lectures (CHEM 141a, 142a).

D. One semester of inorganic chemistry lectures (CHEM 121a, 122b).

E. Three four-credit laboratory courses chosen from CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, 69a, 79a, or one arranged with a laboratory instructor.

F. Two additional 100-level CHEM or CBIO courses. (Either CHEM 33a or a 100-level BCHM course may be substituted for one of the two 100-level CHEM courses.)

G. MATH 10a,b and PHYS 11a,b or 15a,b, which are prerequisites for physical chemistry. Students are urged to complete PHYS 11a,b or 15a,b by the end of their sophomore year. Students with AP credit for MATH 10a,b are advised to take at least one additional MATH course at Brandeis, as is generally expected by professional schools. A recently taken math course may also strengthen preparation for physical chemistry. MATH 15a or 20a is suitable for either the medical school requirements or preparation for physical chemistry.

Students with strong interests in synthetic or biological chemistry may petition the department undergraduate studies committee to substitute PHYS 10a,b for the PHYS 11a,b/15a,b requirement.  For further information students should discuss their proposed program with the undergraduate advising head.

H. Foundational Literacies: As part of completing the Chemistry major, students must:

• Fulfill the writing intensive requirement by successfully completing one of the following: CHEM 39b, CHEM 49a, CHEM 59b, or CHEM 69a.
• Fulfill the oral communication requirement by successfully completing one of the following: CHEM 79a, CHEM 88a, CHEM 94a, CHEM 99d, or CBIO 101a.
• Fulfill the digital literacy requirement by successfully completing one of the following: CHEM 18a, CHEM 18b, CHEM 19a, CHEM 19b, or CHEM 29a.

I. Additional requirements for degree with departmental honors: Two semesters of CHEM 99d (Senior Research) and a GPA of 3.00 or higher in all courses taken to meet the major requirements, including laboratories. Students must petition the department by September 15 of their senior year to enter the senior honors program. A thesis describing the research must be submitted and accepted by the department for honors to be awarded. Students who complete a bachelor of science in chemistry with departmental honors and have taken CHEM 39b and 59b usually will have fulfilled the requirements for an American Chemical Society certified degree.

J. For students planning to pursue graduate study in chemistry, BCHM 100a and physics laboratory (PHYS 19a,b) are also advisable.

K. All transfer students must pass satisfactorily a minimum of three chemistry or biochemistry courses at Brandeis at a level of CHEM 25 or higher with one of the three being CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, or 69a.

L. Provisions I and J of the BA requirements also apply to BS degrees.

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science with Specialization in Chemical Biology

Core courses required of all candidates: One year of general chemistry (CHEM 11a,b or CHEM 15a,b) and laboratory (CHEM 18a,b or CHEM 19a,b); one year of calculus (MATH 10a,b; students with AP credit for MATH 10a,b are advised to take at least one additional MATH course at Brandeis); one year of organic chemistry (CHEM 25a,b) and laboratory (CHEM 29a,b); one year of biology (BIOL 14a and BIOL 15b) and laboratory (BIOL 12a and BIOL 12b or BIOL 18a and BIOL 18b); one year of physics (PHYS 10a,b or PHYS 11a,b or PHYS 15a,b); one semester of advanced introductory biochemistry (BCHM 100a). Students will usually complete the required chemistry, biology and math courses by the end of their sophomore year and take physics as a junior.

Foundational Literacies: As part of completing the Chemistry major with specialization in Chemical Biology, students must:

• Fulfill the writing intensive requirement by successfully completing one of the following: BIOL 18a, CHEM 39b, CHEM 49a, CHEM 59b or CHEM 69a.
• Fulfill the oral communication requirement by successfully completing one of the following: BIOL 18b or CBIO 101a. 
• Fulfill the digital literacy requirement by successfully completing one of the following: CHEM 18a, CHEM 18b, CHEM 19a, CHEM 19b, or CHEM 29a.

Bachelor of Arts

A. Three additional one semester four-credit lecture courses in addition to the core courses; one course may be an advanced laboratory course. At least two courses must be in CHEM or CBIO, chosen from courses numbered 39 or higher. One course may be chosen from any 100-level or higher course in BIOL, BCHM, or NBIO.

B. Additional requirements for degree with departmental honors: two semesters of CHEM 99d (Senior Research); a GPA of 3.00 or higher in all courses taken to meet the major requirements, including laboratories. Students must petition the department by September 15 of their senior year to enter the senior honors program. A thesis describing the research must be submitted and accepted by the department for honors to be awarded.

C. All transfer students must pass satisfactorily a minimum of three chemistry or biochemistry courses at Brandeis at a level of CHEM 25 or higher.

D. Students planning to pursue graduate study in chemistry should make sure that their program of study includes two semesters of physical chemistry lectures (CHEM 141a and 142a).

E. Students planning to enter medical or dental school should make sure that their program of study includes two semesters of physics laboratory (PHYS 18a,b or PHYS 19a,b).

Bachelor of Science

A. Five additional one-semester lecture courses and two laboratory courses in addition to the core courses.

B. One of the lecture courses must be CHEM 141a.

C. One of the lecture courses must be in molecular biology, chosen from BIOL 101a or BIOL 105b.

D. At least two of the three additional lecture courses must be chosen from 100-level courses in CHEM or CBIO. A laboratory course (CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, 69a,or 79a) not used to fulfill requirement E may be substituted for one of the lecture courses. The third additional lecture course may be chosen from any 100-level or higher course in CHEM, CBIO, BIOL, BCHM, or NBIO.

E. At least one laboratory course must be chosen from CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, 69a,or 79a. The other laboratory course may be a Life Sciences project laboratory chosen from BIOL 151a, BIOL 156a, or BIOL 159a.

F. Additional requirements for degree with departmental honors: two semesters of CHEM 99d (Senior Research); a GPA of 3.00 or higher in all courses taken to meet the major requirements, including laboratories. Students must petition the department by September 15 of their senior year to enter the senior honors program. A thesis describing the research must be submitted and accepted by the department for honors to be awarded.

G. All transfer students must pass satisfactorily a minimum of three chemistry or biochemistry courses at Brandeis at a level of CHEM 25 or higher.

H. Students planning to pursue graduate study in chemistry should make sure that their program of study includes two semesters of physical chemistry lectures (i.e., CHEM 142a in addition to 141a).

I. Students planning to enter medical or dental school should make sure that their program of study includes two semesters of physics laboratory (PHYS 18a,b or PHYS 19a,b).

Candidates for departmental honors may be admitted to a special four-year BA/MA program upon recommendation of the department. Application must be made by May 1 preceding the senior year. A total of 152 credits are required, of which 30 must be at the graduate level (numbered 100 and higher). Students must complete requirements A-D as described in the requirements for the BA.

Additionally, the following requirements must also be completed:

1. Two semesters of CHEM 199d (BA/MA Research); a GPA of 3.00 or higher in all courses taken to meet the major requirements, including laboratories. A thesis describing the research must be submitted and accepted by the department.
2. One 130-level organic chemistry course.
3. One 140-level physical chemistry course. The overall BA/MA course selection must include CHEM 141a and 142a.
4. One 100-level chemistry course OR one of CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, 69a, or 79a.
5. Two other 100-level courses from the School of Science.
6. Candidates for the BA/MA degree should take PHYS 11a,b or 15a,b. However, students with strong interests in synthetic or biological chemistry may petition the department undergraduate studies committee to substitute PHYS 10a,b for the PHYS 11a,b/15a,b requirement. For further information students should discuss their proposed program with the undergraduate advising head.

The five courses in sections B-E may not also be counted toward the BA requirements. Grades of B- or higher are required in the 100-level science courses. Candidates should carefully read the section “Dual Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree Programs” under the heading “Special Academic Opportunities,” which appears earlier in this Bulletin. Most notable are the three-year residence requirement and the required total of thirty-eight courses, only four of which may come from AP/IB credits, consistent with university regulations.

Combined BA with Specialization in Chemical Biology/MA Program

Candidates for departmental honors may be admitted to a special four-year BA with specialization in chemical biology/MA program upon recommendation of the department and the Graduate School. Application must be made by May 1 preceding the senior year. A total of 152 credits are required of which 30 must be at the graduate level (numbered 100 and higher).

1. Seven additional one semester lecture courses and two laboratory courses in addition to the core courses required of all candidates for degrees with specialization in chemical biology.
2. One course must be CHEM 141a.
3. One course must be in molecular biology, chosen from BIOL 101a or BIOL 105b.
4. At least four additional lecture courses in CHEM or CBIO, chosen from courses numbered 100 or higher. One elective may be chosen from any 100-level or higher course in BIOL, BCHM, or NBIO.
5. At least one laboratory course must be chosen from CHEM 39b, 49a, 59b, 69a,or 79a. The other laboratory course may be a Life Sciences project laboratory chosen from BIOL 155a, BIOL 156a, or BCHM 155b.
6. Two semesters of CHEM 199d (BA/MA Research); a GPA of 3.00 or higher in all courses taken to meet the major requirements, including laboratories. A thesis describing the research must be submitted and accepted by the department.
7. All transfer students must pass satisfactorily a minimum of three chemistry or biochemistry courses at Brandeis at a level of CHEM 25 or higher.
8. Students planning to pursue graduate study in chemistry should make sure that their program of study includes two semesters of physical chemistry lectures (i.e., CHEM 142a in addition to 141a).
9. Students planning to enter medical or dental school should make sure that their program of study includes two semesters of physics laboratory (PHYS 18a,b or PHYS 19a,b).

Grades of B- or higher are required in the 100-level science courses. Candidates should carefully read the section “Dual Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree Programs” under the heading “Special Academic Opportunities,” which appears earlier in this Bulletin. Most notable are the three-year residence requirement and the required total of thirty-eight courses, only four of which may come from AP/IB credits, consistent with university regulations.

For Majors and Minors in Chemistry: No course offered for major or minor requirements may be taken pass/fail. A course used to satisfy the requirements for the major or minor must be passed with a grade of C- or higher. A maximum of 2 course credits may be taken as CHEM 95a, 95b and/or 99d.

For Prospective Medical School Applicants: Either CHEM 11a,b lecture and CHEM 18a,b laboratory or CHEM 15a,b lecture and CHEM 19a,b laboratory will satisfy the general chemistry requirements of most medical schools. The organic chemistry requirements of most medical schools will be satisfied by CHEM 25a,b lecture and CHEM 29a,b laboratory.

Lecture Course Corequisites for Laboratory Courses: Laboratory courses CHEM 18a, 18b, 19a, 19b, 29a and 29b have a lecture course corequisite. If the corequisite is not taken concurrently, it must have been completed with a satisfactory grade (C- or better).

Program of Study

Each candidate is required to successfully complete one year of course work at the graduate level in chemistry, or, with prior permission of the graduate studies committee, in related fields. The program will include:

1. Six lecture courses at the graduate level, with grades of B- or better and a GPA of 3.0 or better, from at least two of the following five areas: inorganic, materials, organic, and physical chemistry and chemical biology
2. Two semesters of colloquium
3. One semester of a specialty seminar 

The detailed program of study will be chosen jointly by the candidate and the graduate studies committee. In order to earn the Master of Arts degree, the student must complete a minimum of 30 credits unless otherwise specified by the graduate studies committee.

Library Training Requirement

All graduate students are required to complete a designated library training program in their first year.

Placement Exams

Each student is expected to demonstrate a satisfactory knowledge of undergraduate chemistry in placement examinations in physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry. These examinations occur twice a year, before the start of each term. The results of these examinations will determine the student's initial program of course work and will be considered by the graduate studies committee in evaluating the student's progress. If a student fails to pass a placement examination after two attempts, a graduate course must be passed in that area of chemistry. A list of courses appropriate for this purpose is available upon request.

Residence Requirement

The minimum in-person residence requirement for the MA degree is one year.

Program of Study

Each candidate is required to successfully complete one year of course work followed by one year of research culminating in a master’s thesis. 

The first year will include:

1. Six lecture courses at the graduate level in chemistry (or, with prior permission of the graduate studies committee, in related fields), with grades of B- or better and a GPA of 3.0 or better, from at least two of the following five areas: inorganic, materials, organic, and physical chemistry and chemical biology. 
2. Two semesters of colloquium 
3. One semester of a specialty seminar

The detailed program of study will be chosen jointly by the candidate and the graduate studies committee. In order to earn the Master of Science degree, the student must complete a minimum of 54 credits unless otherwise specified by the graduate studies committee.

Library Training Requirement

All graduate students are required to complete a designated library training program in their first year.

Placement Exams

Each student is expected to demonstrate a satisfactory knowledge of undergraduate chemistry in placement examinations in physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry. These examinations occur twice a year, before the start of each term. The results of these examinations will determine the student's initial program of course work and will be considered by the graduate studies committee in evaluating the student's progress. If a student fails to pass a placement exam, the requirement can be fulfilled by passing a graduate course in that area of chemistry. A list of courses appropriate for this purpose is available on request.

Evaluation of Progress

To continue for the Master of Science degree, students must pass all their courses and find a research advisor by the end of their second semester at Brandeis.

Residence Requirement

The minimum in-person residence requirement for the MS degree is two years.

Colloquium and Seminar

Each student in residence is required to attend and participate in the departmental colloquium every semester and the seminar in their chosen specialty every semester in which it is offered. Each student is expected to present one seminar during their residence.

Master's Thesis

A thesis is required that describes the results of an original investigation and demonstrates the competence of the candidate in independent investigation, critical ability, and effectiveness of expression. The thesis must be approved by the research adviser and a second reader appointed by the graduate studies committee.  Students must electronically deposit their master’s thesis to ProQuest ETD. For instructions on how to do this, visit the Thesis and Dissertation Guide.

Students wishing to obtain the specialization in Quantitative Biology (QB) must first gain approval of the Chemistry representative for the QB program (listed online on the Brandeis QB website). This should be done as early as possible in the program. In order to receive the MA or MS in Chemistry with specialization in QB, candidates must complete (a) the requirements for the MA or MS. described above and (b) the course requirements for the QB specialization described in the QB section of this Bulletin.

Any alteration to the QB course requirements must be approved by both the Chemistry Program Chair and the QB Program Chair.

For students in the PhD. program, the MA degree is awarded as a first step toward the PhD. The MS degree is designed for advanced students who do not wish to complete the PhD degree.

Students may normally hold only one master's degree in the department. For example, a student who has received an MA degree may not apply for the MS degree.

Applicants to the master's program will initially be admitted only to the MA program, with transfer into the second year of the MS program contingent on their first year performance.

Program of Study

A balanced program of study will be prepared by the student and the graduate studies committee. 

1. In general, students will be required to take a minimum of six graduate-level lecture courses, with grades of B- or better and a GPA of 3.0 or better, from at least two of the following five areas: inorganic, materials, organic, and physical chemistry and chemical biology
2. In addition, all students are required to participate regularly in both colloquium and seminar, and take CONT 300b (Responsible Conduct of Science) or the comparable Division of Science Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) workshop normally during their first year.

For students entering with a master's degree or the equivalent, credit for up to four of the six required lecture courses may be transferred if equivalent courses are offered at Brandeis and other program guidelines are met. Please see the GSAS section on transfer credit in this Bulletin.

It is expected that students will choose a research adviser during the first year.

Placement Exams

Each student is expected to demonstrate a satisfactory knowledge of undergraduate chemistry in placement examinations in physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry. These examinations are set twice a year, before the start of each term. The results of these examinations will determine the student's initial program of course work and will be considered by the graduate studies committee in evaluating the student's progress. If a student fails to pass a placement examination, the requirement can be fulfilled by passing a graduate course in that area of chemistry. A list of courses appropriate for this purpose is available upon request.

Annual Academic Performance Review and Progress to the Degree

Every student, whether or not currently in residence, must register at the beginning of each term. All graduate students will be evaluated by the graduate studies committee each spring. At this evaluation the records of all graduate students will be carefully reviewed with reference to the timely completion of coursework and non-course degree requirements, the quality of the work and research in progress and the student’s overall academic performance in the program. Starting in the third year of study, each student must meet with their Thesis Advisory Committee at least once each academic year to discuss progress towards completing thesis research and writing the dissertation. The meetings must be documented with a form completed and signed by the thesis committee members and delivered to the Division of Science Graduate Affairs Office by the student.

Qualifying Examinations

The graduate student must demonstrate proficiency in their area of interest by successfully preparing and orally defending either (i) a research proposal for their own research, with preliminary data obtained by the student; it is expected that this exam will be passed by the middle of the fourth semester of graduate work; or (ii) a literature analysis and a literature-based research proposal; it is expected that both parts of this exam will be passed during the third semester of graduate work.

Residence Requirement

The minimum in-person residence requirement for the PhD degree is three years.

Colloquium and Seminar

Each student in residence is required to attend and participate in the departmental colloquium every semester and the seminar in their chosen specialty every semester in which it is offered. Each student is expected to present two seminars during their residence.

Teaching Requirement

It is required that all PhD students participate in undergraduate teaching during the course of their studies. Every graduate teaching assistant (TA) is supervised by a member of the faculty, who serves as a mentor to improve the quality of the TA's teaching. Please see the GSAS section on Teaching Requirements and the program handbook for more details.

Library Training Requirement

All graduate students are required to complete a designated library training program in their first year.

Summer Registration

PhD students in the Chemistry program are required to be on campus or at a related lab for the full year while engaged in taking classes and/or doing research related to their field of study and will be enrolled in CONT 250b by the Registrar's office. Registration for Graduate Summer Term does not count toward the residency requirement. The summer registration fee will be waived.

Dissertation and Defense

A dissertation is required that describes the results of an original investigation and demonstrates the competence of the candidate in independent investigation, critical ability, and effectiveness of expression. The student must successfully defend the dissertation in a final oral examination.

Program of Study

Students wishing to obtain the specialization must first gain approval of the graduate studies committee. This should be done as early as possible; ideally, during the first year of graduate studies. In order to receive the PhD in chemistry with additional specialization in quantitative biology, candidates must:

1. Complete the requirements for the PhD described above.
2. Complete the course requirements of the quantitative biology specialization as outlined in that section of this Bulletin.

Any alteration to the quantitative biology course requirements must be approved by the graduate studies committee and by the quantitative biology program faculty advisory committee.

CHEM 11a General Chemistry I
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This course may not be taken for credit by students who have passed CHEM 15a in previous years. Four class hours and one sixty-minute structured study group session per week. The corresponding lab is CHEM 18a.

Covers a wide array of topics, embracing aspects of descriptive, as well as quantitative, chemistry. No prior study of chemistry is assumed, as the course begins by looking at the atomic foundation of matter, the elements, and the organization of the periodic table, working its way up to studying how atoms are bonded together to form larger units of matter. Students who complete this course will have an understanding of the three major phases of matter--solids, liquids, and gasses--and how they behave, as well as a knowledge of the major types of chemical reactions and how to represent them. A strong focus is put on learning methods of creative problem-solving, using the material as a way to develop creative approaches to solving unfamiliar problems--a skill that carries students far beyond the confines of the classroom. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 11b General Chemistry II
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 11a or an approved equivalent. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have passed CHEM 15b in previous years. Four class hours and one sixty-minute structured study group session per week. The corresponding lab is CHEM 18b.

Picks up where Chemistry 11a left off, advancing students' understanding of bonding models and molecular structure and exploring the basics of coordination chemistry. Three major quantitative topics are covered in the second half of General Chemistry'chemical equilibrium (including acid-base chemistry, solubility, and complex-ion formation), chemical kinetics, and thermodynamics. Other topics explored are electrochemistry and nuclear chemistry. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 15a Honors General Chemistry I
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This course may not be taken for credit by students who have passed CHEM 11a in previous years. Three class hours and one recitation per week. The corresponding laboratory is CHEM 19a.

An advanced version of general chemistry for students with good preparation in math and chemistry in high school. Topics include chemical stoichiometry, chemical bonding from a classical and quantum mechanical perspective, gasses, thermochemistry, solutions, states of matter, atomic structure and periodic properties. Real world examples are used to demonstrate the concepts. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 15b Honors General Chemistry II
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 15a or the equivalent. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have passed CHEM 11b in previous years. Three class hours and one recitation per week. The corresponding laboratory is CHEM 19b.

A continuation of CHEM 15a. Topics include an introduction to thermodynamics, chemical equilibria, including acid-base and solubility equilibria, electrochemistry, chemical kinetics, nuclear chemistry, and special topics. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 18a General Chemistry Laboratory I
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Corequisite: CHEM 11a. Dropping CHEM 11a necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with this course. Two semester-hour credits; yields half-course credit. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have passed CHEM 19a in previous years.

Introduction to basic laboratory methods and methods of qualitative and quantitative analyses. Included in the analytical methods are gas chromatography and infrared measurements. A synthesis project that includes analyzing the product by titration. Calorimetric experiment using probes interfaced with computers. Identification of unknowns based on physical and chemical properties. Analysis of the metal content of substances by atomic absorption. One laboratory lecture per week. One afternoon of laboratory per week. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 18b General Chemistry Laboratory II
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Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 18a and CHEM 11a. Corequisite: CHEM 11b. Dropping CHEM 11b necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with this course. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester-hour credits. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have passed CHEM 19b in previous years.

The second semester of the general chemistry laboratory program. Continued use of probes interfaced with computers to monitor pH and electrical conductivity changes in titrating weak monoprotic and polyprotic amino acids, to monitor pressure changes as part of a kinetics study, and to monitor voltage changes of electrochemical cells with temperature so as to establish thermodynamic parameters for redox reactions. Also included is identification of unknowns based on selective precipitation. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 19a Honors General Chemistry Laboratory I
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Corequisite: CHEM 15a. Dropping CHEM 15a necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with this course. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester-hour credits. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 18a in previous years.

An advanced version of CHEM 18a. One afternoon of laboratory per week. One laboratory lecture per week. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 19b Honors General Chemistry Laboratory II
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 15a and CHEM 19a. Corequisite: CHEM 15b. Dropping CHEM 15b necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with this course. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester-hour credits. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 18b in previous years.

Continuation of CHEM 19a. An advanced version of CHEM 18b. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 25a Organic Chemistry I
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 11b or 15b or the equivalent. CHEM 25a honors option involves a separate recitation and permission of the instructor to enroll. Students in the honors section will receive a note on their transcript designating the class "Honors Organic Chemistry." Three class hours and one ninety-minute recitation per week.

Structure, reactions, preparations, and uses of the compounds of carbon. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 25b Organic Chemistry II
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 25a or its equivalent. CHEM 25b honors option involves a separate recitation and permission of the instructor to enroll. Students in the honors section will receive a note on their transcript designating the class "Honors Organic Chemistry." Three class hours and one ninety-minute recitation per week.

A continuation of CHEM 25a. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 29a Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 18b or 19b or the equivalent. Corequisite: CHEM 25a. Dropping CHEM 25a necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with this course. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester-hour credits.

Gives experience in the important techniques of organic chemical laboratory practice of isolation and purification of organic compounds by crystallization, distillation, and chromatography, and their characterization using analytical and instrumental methods. One afternoon of laboratory per week. One ninety-minute laboratory lecture per week. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 29b Organic Chemistry Laboratory II

Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 25a and CHEM 29a or the equivalent. Corequisite: CHEM 25b. Dropping CHEM 25b necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with this course. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester-hour credits.

A continuation of CHEM 29a with an emphasis on the synthesis of typical organic compounds. One afternoon of laboratory per week. One ninety-minute laboratory lecture per week. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 33a Environmental Chemistry
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or higher) in CHEM 11b or 15b or the equivalent.

The course surveys the important chemical principles and reactions that determine the balance of the molecular species in the environment and how human activity affects this balance. The class evaluates current issues of environmental concern such as ozone depletion, global warming, sustainable energy, toxic chemicals, water pollution, and green chemistry. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 49a Advanced Laboratory: Organic Chemistry
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Prerequisites: C- or higher in CHEM 25a and b, and CHEM 29a and b, or the equivalent. Four semester-hour credits.

Compounds will be synthesized, purified and then characterized by NMR, IR and mass spectroscopy. Multi-week projects will be completed with a lab report in the style of a journal article with full experimental supporting information. The lectures cover the necessary background and experimental techniques for each project. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 59b Advanced Laboratory: Physical Chemistry
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Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or higher in CHEM 18b or equivalent; CHEM 141a or 142a (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent. One one-hour lecture and one afternoon of lab per week.

This course introduces the student to a number of topics of current interest in physical and analytical chemistry and provides experimental verification of physico-chemical principles in thermodynamics, kinetics, macromolecules, organic chemistry, semiconductors, nanochemistry, photochemistry, magnetic resonance imaging and electrochemistry. The properties, reactions, and structure of compounds are understood by evaluating their physicochemical responses to changes in experimental conditions. The experiments use synthesis, spectroscopy, chromatography, electrochemical and other instrumental methods employed in the modern chemical laboratory. The program includes the methodology of quantitative measurement, statistical data analysis, and report writing. One one-hour lecture and one afternoon of laboratory per week. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 69a Advanced Laboratory: Materials Chemistry
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Prerequisites: C- or higher in CHEM 25a and b, and CHEM 29a and b, or the equivalent. Four semester-hour credits.

Introduces the student to selected topics in materials chemistry and provides hands-on experience for making materials that find applications in the real world or are being intensively explored for a wide range of applications. By focusing on the design, control, and characterization of the atomic and molecular structures, macroscopic properties, and applications of materials, we will introduce materials chemistry as a frontier of science that aims to address important societal problems, such as energy and health. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 88a Communication and Career Skills in Chemistry
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Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 25b and 29b, or the equivalent. Does not count as one of the lecture or lab courses for the chemistry major.

A course focused on honing skills for effective scientific communication and career development in chemistry. Students will practice presenting chemical information, learn about various career paths in chemistry, and gain insight into standard safety and ethical protocols in science. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 91g Introduction to Research Practice

Prerequisite: Students must complete online safety training relevant to their research group. Offered exclusively on a credit/no-credit basis. Yields quarter-course credit. May be repeated for credit.

Students engage in Chemistry research by working in the laboratory of a faculty member for a minimum of 3 hours per week for one semester. Students who have declared a Chemistry major must receive permission from the Chemistry Undergraduate Advising Head as well as the faculty sponsor to enroll in CHEM 91g. Students who have not yet declared a major must receive permission from their academic advisor as well as the faculty sponsor. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 94a Peer Assistantship in Chemistry

Offered exclusively on a credit/no-credit basis.

Usually offered every year.

CHEM 95a Directed Studies in Chemistry

Prerequisites: CHEM 25a and 29a or equivalent or permission of the Undergraduate Advising Head. Does not meet the major requirements in chemistry. May not be repeated for credit. A designated library training component must be completed as soon as it is offered.

Readings and/or independent laboratory work. Periodic conferences with advisor and a final written report. CHEM 95a and 95b may be taken individually as one-semester courses or together as a year-long sequence. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 95b Directed Studies in Chemistry

See CHEM 95a for course description. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 99d Senior Research

Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and Undergraduate Advising Head; open only to senior honors candidates. Does not meet the major requirements in chemistry. A designated library training component must be completed as soon as it is offered. At the end of the first semester, the introduction to the research thesis with extensive bibliography is due.

A year-long course focused on a research project with a member of the department. Successful completion of the course involves writing a detailed report on the project. Usually offered every year.

CHSC 2a From Molecules to Million Dollar Medicines: The Science and Business of the Pharmaceutical Industry
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Does not meet the requirements for the major in chemistry.

Provides a basic understanding of how drugs and medicines are developed from the laboratory to the commercialization. Students will gain an appreciation for basic chemical principles, the value of clinical studies, and the considerations made when a drug is brought to market. Usually offered every second year.

CHSC 7b Culinary Chemistry
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Does not meet the requirements for the major or minor in Chemistry. Open to students who have not taken CHEM 11a or b.

Provides a basic understanding of chemical principles as they relate to food, cooking, baking, and other culinary transformations. Students will gain an appreciation for basic chemical principles, experimental design, data analysis, and science communication through hands-on experimentation. Usually offered every second year.

CBIO 101a Chemical Biology
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Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in BIOL 14a, BIOL 15b, and CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalent.

Explores how scientific work in chemistry led to fundamental understanding of and ability to manipulate biological processes. Emphasis is placed on chemical design and synthesis as well as biological evaluation and utility. Content based on scientific literature readings. Usually offered every second year.

CBIO 102a Chemical Innovation Feeding Biological Discovery
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in BIOL 14a, BIOL 15b, and CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalents.

Cover exciting instances in which chemical innovation has been used to fuel biological discovery that is not possible with standard biological techniques. Topics will vary but include a basic introduction to carbohydrate, peptide and bioorthogonal (i.e., 'click') reactions, incorporation of unnatural amino acids into proteins, chemically defined vaccines, and the use of directed evolution to produce biological macromolecules with desired recognition or catalytic functions. Readings drawn from textbooks and the original scientific literature. Usually offered every second year.

CBIO 103b Synthetic Molecules and Human Medicine
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Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in BIOL 14a, BIOL 15b, and CHEM 25a and b, or equivalent.

This course will discuss the remarkable achievements in human medicine facilitated by synthetic molecules (small molecules as well as biologics). It will introduce key concepts and practices in drug discovery, including drug targets, drug design, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. It will also analyze recent discoveries of therapeutic molecules for a variety of diseases as case studies, including diabetes, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, osteoporosis, glaucoma, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases (including COVID-19), cancers, as well as neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. There is a strong organic chemistry component in this course and selected examples of industrial manufacture processes of medicines will be discussed. Readings drawn from textbooks and the original scientific literature. Usually offered every second year.

CBIO 106b Chemical Biology: Medicinal Enzymology
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Prerequisites: Satisfactory grade in BIOL 14a, BIOL 15b, CHEM 25a and 25b, and BCHM 100a or the equivalent.

Introduces students to the conceptual framework and experimental methods in medicinal chemistry. Topics include mechanisms of drug-target interactions, strategies for lead optimization and issues in metabolism, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Readings drawn from textbooks and the original scientific literature. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 121a Inorganic Chemistry I, Lectures
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b and CHEM 29a and b.

Simple bonding theory. Symmetry, structure, and bonding in inorganic compounds. Solid-state chemistry; ionic and electronic conductors. Applications of group theory and bonding theory to main group compounds and transition metal complexes. Coordination chemistry: isomerism, structure, and reactions. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 130a Advanced Organic Chemistry: Structure
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalent.

Chemical bonding and structure, stereochemical principles and conformational analysis, organic reaction mechanisms, structures and activities of reactive intermediates, and pericyclic reactions. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 132b Advanced Organic Chemistry: Spectroscopy
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalent.

Application of spectroscopy to the elucidation of structure and stereochemistry of organic compounds, with emphasis on modern NMR and MS methods. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 134b Advanced Organic Chemistry: Synthesis
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalent.

Modern synthetic methods are covered, with an emphasis on mechanism and stereochemical control. Discusses the formation of carbon-carbon single and double bonds and carbocycles and procedures for oxidation, reduction, and functional group interchange. Examines selected total syntheses. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 135a Advanced Organic Chemistry: Modern Catalytic Reactions in Organic Synthesis
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalent.

Examines the application of modern catalytic and asymmetric methods in organic synthesis is illustrated. Hydrogenation, hydride addition, epoxidation, dihydroxylation, olefin metathesis, C-H activation, and C-C bond forming reactions are discussed, together with recent applications of these reactions to natural product synthesis. Catalysis by metal complexes and organic molecules is discussed with emphasis on the interplay between mechanistic insight and catalyst design. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 137b The Chemistry of Organic Natural Products
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Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalent.

Natural products chemistry is surveyed within a biosynthetic framework. Occurrence, isolation, structure elucidation, biosynthesis, and biomimetic synthesis are covered with an emphasis on modern methods of establishing biosynthesis and biomimetic syntheses. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 141a Chemical Thermodynamics
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Prerequisites: Satisfactory grade in CHEM 11a, 15a and CHEM 11b, 15b or the equivalent; MATH 10b or the equivalent; PHYS 10a,b, 11a,b or 15a,b or the equivalent. Organic chemistry is also recommended.

Thermodynamic principles, tools, and applications in chemistry and biology. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 142a Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy
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Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 11b or 15b or the equivalent; MATH 10b or the equivalent; PHYS 10b, 11b, or 15b or the equivalent. Organic chemistry is also recommended.

Solutions to the Schrodinger equation of relevance to molecular structure, reactivity and spectroscopy; introduction to quantum mechanical calculations and computational methods. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 160a Materials Chemistry: Molecular Foundation for Nanobiotechnology
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Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 11B, 15B or the equivalent or permission of instructor.

Focuses on the elucidation and design of nanomaterials at the molecular scale, with emphasis on nanomaterials to be used in biotechnology and biomedicine. It aims to provide students with multidisciplinary knowledge at the intersection of physical, biological, and materials science. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 161a Polymer and Inorganic Materials Chemistry
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Prerequisite: CHEM 25b or the equivalent.

Covers molecular, structural, and chemical origins of the electronic, thermal, and optical and other physical properties of materials; synthetic methods for the preparation of polymers with diverse structures and properties; principles of emerging technologies and devices that incorporate novel materials. Usually offered every second year.

CHEM 199d BA/MA Research
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Prerequisites: Permission of instructor and Undergraduate Advising Head; open only to BA/MA candidates. Does not meet the major requirements in chemistry. A designated library training component must be completed as soon as it is offered. At the end of the first semester, the introduction to the research thesis with extensive bibliography is due.

A year-long course focused on a research project with a member of the department. Successful completion of the course involves writing a detailed report on the project. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 200a Advanced Chemistry Laboratory I

Usually offered every year.

CHEM 200b Advanced Chemistry Laboratory II

Usually offered every year.

CHEM 230b Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology Seminar

Yields half-course credit.

Required of graduate students in organic chemistry whenever offered. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 240b Physical Chemistry and Materials Seminar

Yields half-course credit.

Required of graduate students in physical chemistry whenever offered. Usually offered every year.

CHEM 298a Independent Study

Usually offered every year.

CHEM 300c Chemistry Colloquium

Yields half-course credit per semester.

Required of graduate students in Chemistry. Usually offered every semester.

CHEM 401d Dissertation Research

Independent research for graduate dissertation. Specific sections for individual faculty members as requested.

BCHM 100a Advanced Introductory Biochemistry
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Prerequisite: One year of organic chemistry with laboratory.

Topics include protein and nucleic acid structure; chemical basis of enzyme-catalyzed reaction mechanisms and enzyme kinetics; the chemical logic of metabolic pathways, including glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation; and regulation of enzymatic pathways through allosteric control. Usually offered every year in multiple sections.

BCHM 101a Advanced Biochemistry: Enzyme Mechanisms
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Prerequisites: One year of organic chemistry with laboratory and BCHM 100a or equivalents.

Describes the principles of biological catalysts and the chemical logic of metabolic pathways. Discusses representative enzymes from each reaction class, with an emphasis on understanding how mechanisms are derived from experimental evidence. Topics include serine proteases, phosphatases, isomerases, carboxylases, and dehydrogenases. Usually offered every year.

BCHM 102a Quantitative Approaches to Biochemical Systems
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Prerequisite: BCHM 100a or equivalent and Math 10a and b or equivalent.

Introduces quantitative approaches to analyzing macromolecular structure and function. Emphasizes the use of basic thermodynamics and single-molecule and ensemble kinetics to elucidate biochemical reaction mechanisms. Also discusses the physical bases of spectroscopic and diffraction methods commonly used in the study of proteins and nucleic acids. Usually offered every year.

BCHM 103b Advanced Biochemistry: Cellular Information Transfer Mechanisms
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Prerequisites: One year of organic chemistry with laboratory and BCHM 100a or equivalents. BIOL 14a or the equivalent is recommended.

Molecular mechanisms of information transfer in biological systems. Topics include nucleic acid biochemistry, processing of genetic information, and signal transduction. Each section will focus on the chemistry and regulation of a selected example from these fundamental processes. Lectures will be complemented by reading assignments and student presentations on articles from the original research literature. Usually offered every year.

BCHM 104b Physical Chemistry of Macromolecules II
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Prerequisites: BCHM 100a, and one of the following: BCHM 104a, CHEM 141a, or Phys 40a, and Math 10a and b or equivalent.

Illustrates the basic principles on which biological macromolecules are constructed and by which they function. Describes overall structures of proteins, nucleic acids, and membranes in terms of the underlying molecular forces: electrostatics, hydrophobic interactions, and H-bonding. The energetics of macromolecular folding and of the linkage between ligand binding and conformational changes will also be discussed. Recitation optional. Usually offered every year.

NBIO 136b Computational Neuroscience
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Prerequisites: MATH 10a or higher and one of the following: NBIO 140b/240b, PHYS 10b/11b/15b, BIOL 107a, or any COSI course.

An introduction to concepts and methods in computer modeling and analysis of neural systems. Topics include single and multicompartmental models of neurons, information representation and processing by populations of neurons, synaptic plasticity and models of learning, working memory, decision making and neural oscillations. The course will be based on in-class computer tutorials, assuming limited prior coding experience, with reading assignments and preparation as homework. Usually offered every second year.

QBIO 110a Numerical Modeling of Biological Systems
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Prerequisite: MATH 10a and b or equivalent.

Modern scientific computation applied to problems in molecular and cell biology. Covers techniques such as numerical integration of differential equations, molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations. Applications range from enzymes and molecular motors to cells. Usually offered every second year.

QBIO 120b Quantitative Biology Instrumentation Laboratory
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Focuses on optical and other instruments commonly used in biomedical laboratories to make quantitative measurements in vivo and in vitro. Students disassemble and reconfigure modular instruments in laboratory exercises that critically evaluate instrument reliability and usability and investigate the origins of noise and systematic error in measurements. Usually offered every year.