Quick Facts

Biochemistry

Developing a molecular understanding of how cells and organisms develop and function is the core agenda of modern biology and has fueled its explosive growth. Because scientific questions are increasingly posed and answered at the molecular level, biochemistry has emerged as the core discipline of the biological sciences. Thus, biochemical research at Montana State University is a rich and diverse enterprise. The Division of Biochemistry serves as the nucleus of interactions both within and outside the department. Research strengths include structural biology, biochemical cell biology, bioorganic chemistry,
and proteomics.

Organic and Inorganic

Organic and inorganic chemistry are exciting scientific disciplines that provide the basis and medium for cutting-edge research in areas ranging from molecular recognition in chemistry and biology to macromolecular materials science. The division of organic and inorganic chemistry at MSU comprises a versatile program that offers a broad variety of research opportunities in synthetic, bioorganic, bioinorganic, organometallic, structural and mechanistic chemistry. Synthesis is a particular strength and serves as a cornerstone for the design and construction of molecular systems having applications in many important areas such as carbohydrate binding domains, custom pharmaceuticals, polymer chemistry, catalysis and biofilm regulation. In addition, numerous collaborative research opportunities exist between the various science departments, as well as the NSF Center for Biofilm engineering at MSU and the Optical Technology Center.

Physical / Analytical

The divisions of physical and analytical chemistry at MSU are closely related disciplines that focus on a fundamental understanding of a variety of systems and phenomena, including the development of instruments and methods. Major areas of interest include trace analysis of environmentally important organic compounds in the atmosphere and their related ion-molecule reactions, optical and EPR spectroscopy and computations on protein structure/dynamics, molecular beam scattering from surfaces, temporally and spatially resolved spectroscopy of laser materials, laser-induced desorption ionization and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry of biopolymers, and development of computer-based instrumentation for local and remote data acquisition.

Interdisciplinary Programs

Facilities

A truly world class collection of instruments aids students and faculty in their research endeavors:

• 600, 500, 300, and 250 MHz NMR Spectrometers
• Raman, FTIR, Fluorescence, and CD/MCD Spectrometers
• Mass Spectrometers capable of all modern techniques including MALDI, Electrospray, MS/MS, EI, CI, ToF-SIMS.
• High throughput proteomics lab including DIGE 2D systems and nanospray mass spectrometers.
• Ultrafast, femtosecond laser system and 3 tunable high resolution Nd: YAG pumped pulsed dye laser systems
• High-frequency CW and pulsed EPR equipment
• SGI Supercomputer and 12 SGI workstations
• Macromolecular Crystallography
• Dynamic Light Scattering
• Isothermal Titration Microcalorimeter
• XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectrometer)
• Confocal Microscopy
• Transmission Electron Microscope
• Scanning Electron Microscope
• Atomic Force Microscope

Living in Bozeman

Bozeman is widely regarded as one of America's most attractive small cities with numerous shops, restaurants, theaters, and art galleries. Located in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, opportunities for skiing, hiking, mountaineering, backpacking, fishing, rafting, and hunting are simply unparalleled.

Stipends

Throughout their graduate careers, students receive competitive stipends. Current stipends begin at $22,000 per year.

Return to regular view	Text-only	Updated: 11/6/09