Message from the Chair

I am pleased to welcome you to the web site for the Department of Biochemistry at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Our Department is one of the Basic Science Departments on the Piscataway Campus of the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and is committed to advancing the understanding of research, scholarship and teaching.

Our Department is comprised of over 14 faculty with well-funded and active research programs in many diverse areas.   They are distinguished scientists who are international leaders in molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology and biochemistry using the system from bacteria to humans who are dedicated to cutting-edge scientific research.   The Department promotes a strong training program for both graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and many of our graduates have gone on to become leaders in academia, industry and government.   Our graduate education programs are affiliated with other departments at UMDNJ and Rutgers University. Graduate students in our Ph.D. programs, therefore, have a great deal of flexibility to rotate through many different types of research labs.  

The growth and invigoration of our research programs continues, particularly as our newest faculty members build novel laboratories and research programs.   The research of our faculty is well supported by extramural funding for their research programs from NIH, NSF, AHA, DOD, other private organizations and also industry.

Department faculty publish their research in quality refereed journals, are highly visible at national and international conferences, serve as members of many scientific advisory committees and editorial boards and they also play major roles here at our Medical School and Rutgers University in cross department and cross college interdisciplinary activities.

Our weekly seminar series features distinguished lecturers from prominent U.S. and international universities. Our students also have access to a broad range of seminars presented by the various departments of our Medical School and Rutgers University .

I am very enthusiastic about the future of biochemistry at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and the many contributions made by our Department.   I am proud of the numerous accomplishments of our faculty and students.   It is my honor as Chair to have helped nurture and promote this process, but as always, it is the faculty, students and staff that provides the talent and initiative that ensures our success and our future.

This website contains current information that will help you become more familiar with all of the people, programs, and services that allow us to optimize our education and research efforts.   We hope you enjoy learning about our Department and welcome your questions and comments.

Michael Hampsey, Ph.D.
Professor and Interim Chair