The Postgraduate College

Basic Medical Sciences / Biochemistry

Overview

Degree awarded:

M.Phil

M.Phil/Ph.D

M.Sc

Ph.D

Programmes:

Master of Science in Biochemistry (Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology)

Master of Science in Biochemistry (Nutritional and Industrial Biochemistry)

Master of Science in Biochemistry (Cancer Research and Molecular Biology)

Master of Science in Biochemistry (Membrane Biochemistry and Biotechnology)

Field of interest:

Cancer Research and Molecular Biology

Membrane Biochemistry and Biotechnology

Molecular Drug Metabolism and Toxicology

Nutritional and Industrial Biochemistry

Entry requirements:

General Regulations Governing Admission to Higher Degree Programmes

Candidates for admission to higher degree programmes shall normally be graduates of the University of Ibadan or other Universities/Institutions recognised by the Senate. Admission shall be made by the Postgraduate College on the recommendation of the appropriate Faculty Postgraduate Committee.
Candidates without any previous higher degrees in the relevant discipline may be admitted only to either the Degree of Master or the Professional Degree of Master.
Candidates with recognised “Research Higher” Degree in the relevant discipline may be admitted to the M.Phil or Ph.D. degree programmes as appropriate, on the recommendation of the appropriate Faculty Postgraduate Committee.
A candidate admitted to the degree of Master of University of Ibadan who obtained a weighted average mark of 55.0 – 59.9%, or a CGPA of between 4.0 and 4.9 may be offered provisional admission to the M.Phil./Ph.D programmes. Such candidates shall be assessed within three semesters of full time and four semesters of part time registration for the M.Phil/Ph.D to Ph.D conversion. This shall also apply to students who graduated from other universities

SPECIAL WAIVER FOR MATURED APPLICANTS

All University of Ibadan graduates should be admitted to Postgraduate programme with the ordinary level criteria existing at the time their first admission. Candidate who did not fulfill the requirements as at the time of their admission are not eligible for consideration.
Special consideration may be given to candidates, who obtained their first degree not less than 20 years from the time of seeking admission to any postgraduate programmes. Such candidates must have been found to possess special skills or abilities and professionally or academically engaged during the period of 20 years.

How to apply:

Apply online

A postgraduate degree program in Biochemistry provides students with an advanced understanding of the biochemical processes that occur within living organisms. It combines principles from biology, chemistry, and molecular biology to explore the structure, function, and regulation of biological molecules and their roles in cellular processes. Here is an overview of the key components typically covered in a postgraduate degree program in Biochemistry:

Advanced Biochemical Principles:

In-depth study of fundamental concepts in biochemistry, including biomolecules, enzymology, metabolism, and cellular processes.
Understanding the principles of protein structure and function, nucleic acid biochemistry, and membrane biology.

Molecular Biology and Genetics:

Exploration of DNA replication, transcription, translation, and regulation of gene expression.
Study of molecular genetics, genomics, and the role of genetic variation in disease.

Protein Structure and Function:

Analysis of protein folding, structure determination techniques, and protein-protein interactions.
Understanding the relationship between protein structure and function, including enzymatic catalysis and signal transduction.

Metabolism and Bioenergetics:

Study of metabolic pathways, energy production, and the regulation of metabolic processes.
Exploration of carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, and the integration of metabolic pathways.

Molecular Techniques in Biochemistry:

Hands-on training in laboratory techniques commonly used in biochemistry research.
Introduction to methods such as DNA cloning, protein purification, enzymatic assays, and spectroscopic techniques.

Biophysical Techniques:

Examination of techniques used to study biomolecular structure and dynamics.
Includes topics such as X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology:

Introduction to computational tools and techniques for analyzing biological data.
Utilization of bioinformatics databases, sequence analysis, molecular modeling, and data mining techniques.

Cell Signaling and Regulation:

Exploration of cellular communication mechanisms, including signal transduction pathways and second messenger systems.
Study of the regulation of gene expression, post-translational modifications, and cell cycle control.

Structural Biology:

In-depth analysis of macromolecular structures using various techniques, including X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy.
Understanding the relationship between structure and function in complex biomolecular systems.

Advanced Topics in Biochemistry:

Specialized study of advanced topics in biochemistry, such as bioinformatics, proteomics, drug discovery, or molecular immunology.
Exploration of current research trends and emerging technologies in the field.

Research Methods and Dissertation:

Training in research methodologies and experimental design.
Conducting independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor and completing a research dissertation.

Few/Some of the Course Content

EMS 727	Basic Statistical Procedures
BIC 708	Molecular Biology
BIC 705	Environmental and Experimental Oncology
BIC 714	Nutrition and Industrial Biochemistry
BIC 709	Seminar
BIC 706	Research Project
BIC 703	Xenobiochemistry
BIC 702	Membrane Biophysics and Biochemistry
BIC 701	General Biochemistry
EMS 727	Basic Statistical Procedures
BIC 708	Molecular Biology
BIC 705	Environmental and Experimental Oncology
BIC 714	Nutrition and Industrial Biochemistry
BIC 709	Seminar
BIC 706	Research Project
BIC 703	Xenobiochemistry
BIC 702	Membrane Biophysics and Biochemistry
BIC 701	General Biochemistry
EMS 727	Basic Statistical Procedures
BIC 708	Molecular Biology
BIC 705	Environmental and Experimental Oncology
BIC 714	Nutrition and Industrial Biochemistry
BIC 709	Seminar

Entry Requirement

General Admission Requirements for Higher Degree

The basic qualification for admission to all Postgraduate Courses and Programmes is a first degree of the University of Ibadan or degree/Higher National Diploma of other recognized Institutions in the relevant discipline. Where qualifications are not strictly in the area of admission, remedial courses, which may lead to additional periods of studentship, may be prescribed.
In addition to individual Departmental requirements, applicants must satisfy the ‘O’ Level first degree matriculation requirements of the University of Ibadan i.e five ‘O’Level credit passes at ONE sitting or 6 ‘O’ level credits at TWO sittings including English Language and subject areas for ALL disciplines and Mathematics for ALL Science-based disciplines, Educational Management and Economics and at least a pass in Mathematics for other Social Science Courses OR Holder of NCE must have credit passes in WASC or credit or merit passes in TC II (obtained between 1967 and 1981) in English Language and four other relevant matriculation subjects.
Candidates for the degree of M.Phil and Ph.D. are admitted in the first instance to the Degree of Master Programme. However, candidates who, in addition to a good first degree, and already holding acceptable postgraduate degrees, may be considered for direct admission to the M.Phil and Ph.D. Programmes.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADMISSION REQUIREMENT

Candidate with recognized first degree or higher degree assessed to be at least equal or equivalent to the degree of Bachelor or Master of the University of Ibadan and as recognized by the University senate may be admitted to the Masters , M.Phil, M.Phil/Ph.D or Ph.D Programme on the recommendation of the appropriate Faculty Postgraduate Committee
All applicants for the Postgraduate Diploma, Degree of Masters and Professional Master are require to take Test of Proficiency in English Language. A. minimum score of 40 percent must be attained before applicants could be eligible to be shortlisted by the admitting Departments, Schools, or Institutes.

Facilities

Career Path

A postgraduate degree in Biochemistry opens up various career opportunities in the field of scientific research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and academia. Graduates can pursue specialized roles that involve conducting research, developing new therapies or drugs, analyzing biological systems, or teaching and mentoring students. Here are some common career paths for postgraduate students in Biochemistry:

Research Scientist:

Conduct research in academic institutions, government laboratories, or private research organizations.
Explore areas such as molecular biology, enzymology, protein structure, genomics, or drug discovery.

Biotechnology Researcher:

Work in biotechnology companies, focusing on the development of new technologies, products, or therapies.
Engage in areas like genetic engineering, gene therapy, bioinformatics, or biomaterials.

Pharmaceutical Scientist:

Contribute to the development and testing of new drugs or therapies in pharmaceutical companies.
Work in areas such as drug discovery, pharmacology, toxicology, or clinical trials.

Quality Control/Assurance Specialist:

Ensure the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products or research processes.
Implement quality control measures, perform testing and analysis, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Clinical Biochemist:

Work in clinical laboratories or hospitals, analyzing patient samples and providing diagnostic support.
Perform biochemical tests, interpret results, and contribute to patient care and treatment decisions.

Medical Researcher:

Conduct research in medical institutions or hospitals, focusing on understanding diseases and developing new treatments.
Collaborate with clinicians and other researchers to advance medical knowledge and therapies.

Forensic Scientist:

Apply biochemical techniques in forensic investigations, analyzing evidence and providing expert testimony.
Work in crime laboratories, law enforcement agencies, or private forensic firms.

Academician/Professor:

Pursue a career in academia, teaching and mentoring students in biochemistry or related disciplines.
Conduct research, publish scholarly papers, and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Science Writer/Communicator:

Translate complex scientific concepts into accessible content for various audiences.
Work as a science journalist, technical writer, or communicate science through multimedia platforms.

Regulatory Affairs Specialist:

Ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
Assist in obtaining regulatory approvals, manage documentation, and communicate with regulatory agencies.

Patent Examiner/Attorney:

Evaluate patent applications related to biochemistry and biotechnology.
Work with intellectual property law firms or patent offices to protect and manage intellectual property.

Environmental Scientist:

Apply biochemical knowledge to assess and solve environmental problems.
Work in areas such as environmental monitoring, pollution control, or conservation.

Food and Beverage Scientist:

Develop and improve food and beverage products using biochemical techniques.
Work in the food industry, focusing on areas like food processing, quality control, or product development.

Entrepreneurship:

Start a biotechnology company or venture, developing innovative products or services.
Apply biochemical knowledge to solve industry challenges or address unmet needs.

These are just a few examples of the career paths available to postgraduate students in Biochemistry. The field of biochemistry offers diverse opportunities, and graduates can specialize further within specific areas based on their interests and expertise. Continuous learning, staying updated with emerging technologies, and building a professional network can enhance career prospects in this field.

Supervisor(s)

Professor E.O. Farombi, Ph.D., FRSC, ATS, FAS, FAAS, FNSBMB, FAMedS
Professor of Biochemistry, Toxicology and Translational Medicine

Ebenezer Olatunde Farombi is a Professor of Biochemistry, University of Ibadan. A Quondam Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, he is a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science. Professor Farombi’s research endeavor has elucidated the molecular mechanisms of action underlying the chemopreventive role of certain phytochemicals in various pathological conditions. Deploying cellular and molecular toxicology tools, his translational research has uniquely promoted the development of novel therapeutic signatures, and opened up new vistas in certain diseased conditions such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. A very effective, innovative researcher, mentor and university teacher of 35 years, he has supervised 255 MSc and 27 PhD students. He is the supervisor of the adjudged best PhD Thesis in Basic Medical Sciences withing the Nigeria University system by NUC in 2009 and has recently supervised the best PhD Thesis in the University of Ibadan (2018). He has authored over 300 peer reviewed articles.

View Profile

Fees

Get estimated fee for this programme using this Link

Apply now

Programme