Human Genetics and Genetic Diseases

Cellular and Molecular Genetics

It is the study of genetics at the level of the basic building blocks of cells and at the DNA level. Cells are as complex as they are tiny and much is still unknown about the inner workings of these building blocks of life. If you'd like to log hours in a lab and use advanced equipment to help advance the understanding of how cells work, studies in cellular and molecular biology could be for you. Biology is the study of living things, and cellular or molecular biology studies living things on the smallest possible scale. To prepare for a career in cellular or molecular biology, individuals must have a strong understanding of chemistry, statistics and physics. The research of cellular and molecular biologists is integral to things like the development of new medications, the protection of aquatic ecosystems and the improvement of agricultural products. A student pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in cellular and molecular Genetics spends time divided between classroom lectures and practical laboratory instruction. Research is an important part of this field, and students must be comfortable using highly advanced pieces of equipment to conduct experiments. In addition, cellular and molecular biology programs teach students about cellular structures and their functions, how cells make and use things like proteins and enzymes and much more. Courses covered in a molecular or cellular biology degree program may include  microbiology, epidemiology, microscopy and molecular genetics.