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Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD)

Earning your PhD in biochemistry and medical genetics is an immersive four-year experience that opens doors to a wide range of thesis projects. Explore exciting areas of research, including cancer biology, epigenetics, and the genetic basis of development and disease. With our support, you’ll engage in meaningful investigations that contribute to scientific knowledge and improve health outcomes. Your journey starts here—join us and be part of a vibrant academic community committed to excellence and innovation in research and education.

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    Faculty

    • Rady Faculty of Health Sciences
    • Faculty of Graduate Studies

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    Degree

    • Doctor of Philosophy

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    Expected duration

    • 4-5 years

Study with us

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Learn from the best

At the heart of your educational journey are our dedicated faculty members, recognized both locally and globally for their excellence in teaching and groundbreaking research. They are not only mentors but also leaders in their fields, committed to empowering you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel. With their guidance, you’ll be equipped to tackle complex challenges and contribute to advancements in healthcare for individuals and families affected by genetic and metabolic disorders. Together, you’ll forge new paths in scientific discovery and innovation.

Discover your path 

Welcome to the exciting realm of biochemistry and medical genetics, where your journey toward making a meaningful impact begins. Our Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics is dedicated to fostering an inspiring educational experience, encouraging you to explore the complexities of life at the molecular level. Whether you’re drawn to cancer research, computational biology, or regenerative medicine, this is the place where your passion can thrive. Join us and unlock your potential as an independent investigator, practitioner, or educator in this dynamic field.

Innovate and collaborate

Our department boasts cutting-edge research facilities designed to support your academic and professional growth. From advanced laboratories to specialized common research support areas, you’ll have access to the tools and resources necessary for groundbreaking research. This enriching environment fosters collaboration among students and faculty, ensuring that you are at the forefront of biochemistry and medical genetics. Dive into hands-on experiences and bring your research ideas to life in a space that inspires creativity and inquiry.

Learn from the best

At the heart of your educational journey are our dedicated faculty members, recognized both locally and globally for their excellence in teaching and groundbreaking research. They are not only mentors but also leaders in their fields, committed to empowering you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel. With their guidance, you’ll be equipped to tackle complex challenges and contribute to advancements in healthcare for individuals and families affected by genetic and metabolic disorders. Together, you’ll forge new paths in scientific discovery and innovation.

Discover your path 

Welcome to the exciting realm of biochemistry and medical genetics, where your journey toward making a meaningful impact begins. Our Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics is dedicated to fostering an inspiring educational experience, encouraging you to explore the complexities of life at the molecular level. Whether you’re drawn to cancer research, computational biology, or regenerative medicine, this is the place where your passion can thrive. Join us and unlock your potential as an independent investigator, practitioner, or educator in this dynamic field.

Group shot of faculty.
Mitosis.
Student working in a lab.
Group shot of faculty.
Mitosis.

Program details

The Faculty of Graduate Studies and the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences offer a four to five-year program of study leading to a Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD).

Expected duration: 4-5 years

Tuition and fees: Tuition fees are charged for terms one and two and terms four and five. A continuing fee is paid for term three, term six and each subsequent term. (Refer to Graduate tuition and fees.)

In addition to the minimum course requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies found in the Graduate Studies Regulations Section, students must meet the following requirements depending on their method of entry.

Students entering with a thesis-based MSc must:

  • Complete a minimum of 9 credit hours of coursework
  • Complete and successfully defend a doctoral thesis

Students transferring from the Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (MSc) must:

  • Complete 6 credit hours in addition to the 10 credit hours required in fulfillment of the MSc program
  • Complete and successfully defend a doctoral thesis

Sample course offerings

Here are some examples of the courses offered for this program:

  • BGEN 7020: Proteins
  • BGEN 7070: Special Topics in Human Genetics
  • BGEN 7090: Principles and Practice of Human Genetics
  • BGEN 7130: Genetic Epidemiology of Human Populations
  • BGEN 7180: Clinical and Molecular Cytogenetics
  • BGEN 7200: Topics in Biochemistry
  • BGEN 7250: Gene Expression and Epigenetics
  • IMED 7120: Medical Biochemistry
  • IMED 7170: Medical Genetics
  • IMED 7200: Cancer Biology

For a full list of courses and descriptions of each, please visit the Academic Calendar.

Admission requirements

The following are minimum requirements to be considered for entry into the Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD) program. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

  • To be considered for admission to the biochemistry and medical genetics (PhD) program, you need to meet the following criteria:

    • Educational background: A thesis-based master’s degree (at least two years long) or an equivalent degree in biochemistry, genetics, or a closely related field.
    • Academic performance: A cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.5 scale (or an equivalent), with no grades lower than C+ in your master's courses.

    In some situations, master’s students who have excelled in their first year may be eligible to transfer to the PhD program. For more details, please check the Faculty of Graduate Studies supplementary regulations.

    Additionally, all applicants must also meet the minimum admission and English language proficiency requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

How to apply

The Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (PhD) program accepts applications for Fall, Winter, and Summer entry. To apply, you need to complete an online application that includes the following components:

Required components

  • Application fee: This is a non-refundable fee. You can find more information here.
  • Unofficial transcripts: Include copies of your transcripts and degree certificates.
  • Supervisor support: Confirm support from a potential supervisor before applying.
  • Statement of intent: Write a clear statement outlining your goals and interests.
  • CV/resumé: Provide an up-to-date CV or resumé.
  • Letters of recommendation: Request two letters of recommendation within the application.
  • Proof of English language proficiency: Submit proof if required. More details can be found here.

Interview requirement

You must interview (by email or virtually) with a potential supervisor before applying. Obtain confirmation that the supervisor will accept you if you are approved and offered admission by the Faculty of Graduate Studies. This potential supervisor must be a faculty member in the University of Manitoba's Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics.

NOTE: Before starting your application, please read the Faculty of Graduate Studies online application instructions.

Application deadlines

Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.

Canadian and US applicants
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) June 1
Winter (January) October 1
Summer (May) February 1

International applicants
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) March 1
Winter (January) July 1
Summer (May) November 1

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.

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Contact us

Admission and application inquiries

Faculty of Graduate Studies
Room 500 UMSU University Centre
65 Chancellors Circle
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

graduate.admissions@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-474-9377

Monday to Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program inquiries

The Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics
Room 336 Basic Medical Sciences Building
745 Bannatyne Avenue
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9 Canada

bmgadmin@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-789-3593
Fax: 204-789-3900