The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers graduate programs tailored to
the needs of both full-time students and working professionals. Our MS and PhD degree
programs span a wide range of fields, including analytical, biochemistry, inorganic,
organic, polymer, physical chemistry and chemical physics. With guidance from our
faculty mentors, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct original research and receive
a top-notch education that prepares you for success in your chosen field.
The BS/MS Chemistry dual degree allows you to earn your Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
in four years and your Master of Science in Chemistry with one additional academic
year of coursework. This opportunity provides students with the advanced skills employers
are seeking to meet the growing demand for master’s-level professionals.
Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Chemistry
Earn both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry through an accelerated
five-year pathway. This dual-degree program provides you with advanced skills and
hands-on research experience that set you apart in today’s competitive workforce.
The MS in Chemistry provides advanced training across chemical disciplines with opportunities
for research alongside expert faculty. The program prepares you for career advancement
in industry, government or doctoral study.
The Ph.D. in Chemistry offers rigorous, research-intensive training that prepares
you to make original scientific contributions. You'll work closely with renowned faculty
mentors as you develop the expertise needed for leadership roles in academia, industry
and national laboratories.
These are just some of the research opportunities available to you as a graduate student.
Molecule Synthesis Breakthroughs
Alex Cocolas, Aiden Lane, Ben Musiak, Eric Chartier, Derek Bedillion, and Sarah Hejnosz
have developed an innovative technique for the precise and efficient synthesis of
complex molecules. Their research details a novel method for producing 43 distinct
variants of 7-azanorbornanes. This approach utilizes specialized chemical compounds
known as tertiary amine N-oxides and involves the substitution of alkenes, which are
hydrocarbons with double bonds.
Samuel Lenze and Justin Terhorst's publication,"Creation of Gas-Phase Organo-Uranium
Species by Removal of 'yl' Oxo Ligands from UO₂²⁺ Carboxylate Precursor Ions" focuses
on uranium chemistry, how uranium ions can be manipulated and studied in controlled
environments. By breaking down these ions, they're discovering new insights into uranium's
reactions and properties, contributing to advancements in nuclear science.
Caleb Frye and Caylee Cunningham's publication, "Characterization of the SARS-CoV-2
Genome 3′-Untranslated Region Interactions with Host MicroRNAs" explores how the COVID-19
virus may manipulate our cellular mechanisms to better understand how it causes illness
and how we can develop new treatments to combat it.
Rathna Veeramachaneni, Chelsee Donelan, and Kayce Tomcho developed a method to map
structural linkages in the human α1 glycine receptor (α1 GlyR), a protein essential
for nerve cell communication. Using a reactive site, chemical linkers, and UV light,
their work provides new insights into the protein's structure within cell membranes.
Conduct original research that develops your ability to design, execute and analyze
complex experiments independently, preparing you for advanced careers and scientific
discovery.
To support your research endeavors, you will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory
facilities and research funding opportunities. Collaboration and engagement with the
wider chemistry and biochemistry academic community are encouraged, allowing you to
present your research at prestigious conferences and publish your findings in renowned
scientific journals.
Graduate Student Resources
Duquesne offers graduate students full access to campus resources—from fitness and
wellness services to library study spaces and career development. You can live just
steps from your classes in Brottier Hall (apartment style), Des Places Hall (suite
style), or our newest graduate student apartment building, McGinley Hall.
Achieving Big Goals Together
Undergraduates share how graduate students helped them grow in the lab and beyond.
