Molecular Genetics Major

Program Overview

The Microbiology program offers a unique bridge between the Robert Larner, MD, College of Medicine and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.  Because the major straddles two colleges, students have access to courses and faculty from diverse departments and disciplines including Animal Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, Plant Biology, Medicine, Pathology, Pediatrics, and Pharmacology. The association within Larner College of Medicine offers undergrads lab experience in biomedical research and medical mentorship opportunities.

Curriculum

Molecular Genetics Catalog link

The close-knit MMG program brings students from Molecular Genetics together with students in the Microbiology major for an introductory colloquium and capstone course in their first and last years, respectively. MMG majors are uniquely qualified to explore career options in Bioinformatics, biomedical ethics, patent law, genetic counseling, secondary school science teaching, etc.

Outcomes

• Our graduates have an excellent track record of admittance into top-notch medical and graduate schools
• They often acquire high-paying laboratory research jobs upon graduation.
• The Molecular Genetics major is a great starting place for a career in biomedical sciences or the biopharmaceutical industry.

Graduates of this major will be able to:

• Describe and apply basic molecular genetics information, concepts and experimental techniques
• Explain and evaluate molecular genetics research orally and in writing
• Demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and inclusive excellence in the conduct of science and learning
• Articulate own identity as a member of the scientific community and reflect on how that has developed throughout progression toward career goals

More

Molecular Genetics isn't just about memorizing A, T, C, and G. 

It's about understanding how these simple building blocks create the incredible complexity of living organisms. It's the study of how information is stored, replicated, and expressed at the molecular level, and it's where the most fundamental mysteries of biology are being unraveled.

Here's why Molecular Genetics is a journey into the heart of life that'll leave you awestruck:

• The Blueprint of Life:
  • You'll dive deep into the structure and function of DNA, the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for every living thing. You'll learn how genes are organized, how they're copied, and how they're translated into proteins, the workhorses of the cell.
  • Imagine being able to read and understand the instructions that make you, you! That's the power of molecular genetics.
• Unraveling the Mechanisms of Heredity:
  • Ever wondered why you have your parents' eyes or your grandparents' smile? Molecular genetics explains how traits are passed from one generation to the next.
  • You'll explore the fascinating world of mutations, gene variations, and how they contribute to both diversity and disease.
• The Power of Gene Editing:
  • Technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 have revolutionized molecular genetics, allowing scientists to precisely edit genes. This opens up incredible possibilities for treating genetic diseases, developing new therapies, and even engineering organisms with desired traits.
  • Imagine being able to cure genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis or Huntington's disease. That's the potential of gene editing.
• Understanding the Molecular Basis of Disease:
  • Many diseases, including cancer, are caused by changes in genes or gene expression. Molecular genetics provides the tools to understand the molecular mechanisms of these diseases and develop targeted therapies.
  • You will learn the molecular reasons why a cell becomes cancerous, or how a virus changes the genetic expression of a host.
• The Cutting Edge of Biotechnology:
  • Molecular genetics is the foundation of biotechnology, a field that's transforming medicine, agriculture, and industry.
  • From developing new diagnostic tests to creating genetically modified crops, molecular genetics is driving innovation in countless areas.
• The Excitement of Discovery:
  • Molecular genetics is a rapidly evolving field, with new discoveries being made all the time. You'll have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research and contribute to our understanding of the fundamental processes of life.
  • You will be able to learn how to sequence DNA, and how to analyse the results of that sequencing.
• The Ability to answer fundamental questions:
  • Where did life come from? How did it evolve? Molecular genetics allows us to study the DNA of all living things, and understand the evolutionary relationships between them.

Why UVM stands out!

• Small classes and access to faculty.
• Hands-on classroom laboratory experiences.
• Strong commitment to undergraduate advising.
• A first-year colloquium in which students meet with the faculty to discuss research projects and contemporary issues in the field.
• Undergraduates are encouraged to get involved in cutting-edge research projects in such areas as: DNA repair; infectious diseases; bioinformatics; structural biology; and developmental genetics.
• Internship opportunities outside the UVM campus abound.