Molecular biology is a scientific field that aims to elucidate the mechanisms of life at the molecular level. It is closely related to biochemistry, which explores the structure and function of biological molecules from a chemical perspective, and serves as a vital foundation for advancing other disciplines such as medicine, pharmacology, agriculture, and biotechnology. We now live in an era in which the complete genetic information (genome data) of various organisms\u2014such as the Human Genome and Rice Genome\u2014has been revealed through large-scale projects. In the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, we address post-genomic challenges by conducting research that integrates molecular genetics, biochemistry, and information science. Our efforts include the genetic exploration of novel genes, functional analysis of genes with unknown roles, and comprehensive genome-wide analyses based on plant and bacterial genome information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The department seeks students with a keen interest in understanding how life works and a strong desire to explore its mysteries. For this reason, in addition to the six subjects and eight areas of the Common Test for University Admissions, the school recommendation-based selection and the general entrance examination (first schedule) include interviews to comprehensively assess students\u2019 knowledge, understanding, logical thinking, and communication skills in natural sciences, particularly biology. To advance molecular biology in the post-genomic era, it is essential to possess a solid understanding of biochemistry, biophysics, and bioinformatics\u2014disciplines that are grounded in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. This requires a broad and strong foundation in general natural sciences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology welcomes motivated students and is committed to providing a dynamic and stimulating learning environment where individuals can inspire one another and fully develop their unique talents and abilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information about the admission policy of the Faculty of Science at Saitama University, please refer to the following website:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/www.saitama-u.ac.jp\/sci\/examinee\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Please refer to the open campus website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n School Recommendation-based Selection<\/strong>: Nov 15, 2025 (Includes an interview with oral questions on molecular biology and general natural sciences) Number of Available Seats<\/strong>: For details, please visit Saitama University\u2019s Entrance Examination Information<\/a> page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Master\u2019s Program in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, part of the Life Science Division of the Graduate School of Science and Engineering, is conducted by faculty members from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, along with visiting professors from RIKEN and AIST. After two years of study\u2014including lectures, seminars, and an individual research project\u2014students submit and present a master\u2019s thesis to obtain a Master\u2019s degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the Doctoral Program, faculty members from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology contribute to the Life Science Division as part of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program. After three years of research-focused study, students are required to complete and defend a doctoral dissertation to obtain a Doctoral degree (Doctor of Science or Doctor of Academic Studies).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Individuals with a background in chemistry, physics, mathematics, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genomics, neuroscience, or other biological sciences, who resonate with the rational principles governing life phenomena and the concepts of coexistence and symbiosis necessary for maintaining biological societies and environments, and aim to pursue one of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The information session will be held on May 24, 2025, at 1:30 PM<\/strong> in Classroom 11, 2nd Floor, Building 3, Faculty of Science<\/strong> (Poster<\/a>). University students, working professionals, and those considering enrollment in the doctoral program who are interested in advancing to a graduate school in life sciences are welcome to attend.<\/p>\n\n\n\nEntrance Examination Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
University Information Sessions and Open Campus<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Application Periods
School Recommendation-based Selection:<\/strong> Nov 4 \u2013 Nov 7, 2025
General Entrance Examination<\/strong>: Jan 26 \u2013 Feb 4, 2026<\/h4>\n\n\n\nExamination Dates<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
First Round<\/strong>: Feb 26, 2026 (Interview including oral questions on molecular biology and general natural sciences)
Second Round<\/strong>: Mar 12, 2026 (Written examination in mathematics and one science subject selected from physics, chemistry, or biology)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
School Recommendation-based Selection (5), First Round (25), Second Round (10)<\/p>\n\n\n\nGraduate School Entrance Examination<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Admission Policy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Desired Applicant Profile for the Master\u2019s Program<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Desired Applicant Profile for the Doctoral Program<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Entrance Examination Information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Graduate School Entrance Examination Information Session<\/h4>\n\n\n\n