Molecular and cellular biology is the study of the interactions between molecules, cells, and tissue. It combines the knowledge of biochemistry, genetics, pharmacology, physiology, and other areas to understand how cells form, how they function, and how they interact with each other. Molecular and cellular biology is a field that has advanced tremendously in recent years and is one of the fastest growing research areas in the sciences. Molecules are the building blocks of cellular life. Many cellular processes, from metabolism to reproduction, are regulated by proteins and other molecules. Researchers in molecular and cellular biology seek to uncover the precise interactions between molecules that lead to dramatic life processes. Techniques used include biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. At the cellular level, researchers study the mechanisms by which cells communicate and interact with each other. This is important for understanding normal healthy functioning as well as the causes of disease. Cellular signaling pathways are complex, involving the activity of numerous proteins, including receptors, enzymes, and transcription factors. New technologies are allowing researchers to rapidly examine how these pathways are disrupted in disease states. The study of molecular and cellular biology has direct implications for medical science. Understanding the basic molecular and cellular mechanisms of life can help researchers learn more about how diseases like cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and heart disease develop. This knowledge has already led to potentially life-saving treatments for many diseases. Molecular and cellular biology is a fascinating field that poses intellectual challenges and offers the potential to dramatically impact human health. To learn more, we invite you to explore the exciting opportunities available through our degree programs.