119 Morgan Hall
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA 94720-3104
L. Bjeldanes, Chair

Our department administers two Ph.D. programs:

    Molecular & Biochemical Nutrition
    Molecular Toxicology

We also offer two undergraduate majors, one in Nutritional Sciences and the other in Molecular Toxicology.

The Nutritional Sciences major combines a strong foundation in the biological and chemical sciences with specialized advance course work that focuses on nutrient/non-nutrient function and metabolism. The application of this field informs recommendations for dietary patterns to achieve optimum health and the treatment or prevention of disease; food production and safety; and the interaction of industrial chemicals and drugs with the body. This major is ideal preparation for professional health fields like medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, dietetics, and nursing as well as food production and safety, biotechnology, and research. Students pursuing this major select from three tracks:
    Track I: Physiology and Metabolism focuses on the biochemical and physiological study of nutrient utilization as well as the study of food properties and processing of food materials.
    Track II: Dietetics prepares students for a career as a Registered Dietitian (RD). RD's translate the science of nutrition into practical applications for individuals and groups in clinical, food service, or community settings. Graduates of this program must also complete a Dietetic Internship and pass a national examination in order to become a RD.
    Track III: Toxicology focuses on the biochemical and physiological study of the adverse effects of nutrients and non-nutrients in the diet as well as the beneficial effects of dietary phytochemicals.

The Molecular Toxicology major focuses on the hazardous and beneficial effects of natural and man-made toxic agents. From industrially produced environmental contaminants and designer drugs to naturally occurring herbs and food products, this field of study applies molecular and computational methods to better understand how these agents interact with living organisms and what should be done to ensure human health and safety. This major prepares students for careers in many applications of biological or computer sciences, including environmental protection, public health, pharmacology, forensic sciences, medicine, pharmacy, biotechnology, the food industry, and related businesses.