GRADUATE PROGRAM IN MOLECULAR SCIENCE

INTRODUCTION TO THE GRADUATE PROGRAM IN MOLECULAR SCIENCE (PPGCM)

The Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) at Goiás State University (UEG) offers a unique environment for academic and professional development in molecular sciences. Located in the heart of Brazil, the program integrates research, teaching, and innovation to address contemporary challenges in chemistry, biology, and materials science.

PPGCM fosters a collaborative atmosphere where students work closely with faculty members on interdisciplinary research projects. Its curriculum emphasizes both theoretical and practical knowledge, ensuring graduates are well-resourced to contribute to diverse scientific and industrial fields. The program also values partnerships with national and international institutions, creating opportunities for academic exchange and cooperative research.

With well-equipped laboratories and a strong commitment to advancing molecular science, PPGCM provides an enriching academic journey that prepares students for impactful careers in research, industry, and beyond.

Strategic Importance

The Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) is based in Anápolis, a thriving city in central Brazil recognized as a national logistics hub. Situated strategically between Brasília and Goiânia, Anápolis benefits from excellent connectivity through major highways, railways, and the Anápolis Airport.

Anápolis is home to the Distrito Agroindustrial de Anápolis (DAIA), one of Brazil's most significant industrial districts. DAIA hosts a dynamic mix of industries, including pharmaceuticals, automotive, and agribusiness, making it a center for innovation and economic activity. This proximity to DAIA provides PPGCM with unique opportunities to collaborate with industries, bridging academic research with technological applications.

Location of the Graduate Program in Molecular Science

The Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) is housed at the Centro de Ciências Exatas e Tecnológicas Henrique Santillo (CCET), the main campus of Goiás State University (UEG) in Anápolis. The CCET campus is strategically located along the BR-153 highway, providing easy access for students from different parts of the city.

The address of the campus is:
Rodovia BR-153, Quadra Área, km 99, Bloco IV, 1st Floor, Anápolis, GO, Brazil, CEP 75132-903.

Students can easily reach the campus by bus, car, or bicycle, with public transportation routes serving the surrounding neighborhoods.

 Scholarships Availability

The Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) offers annual scholarships funded by state and federal agencies. These scholarships are valued at approximately R$2,100.00 (around $350 USD) per month and are awarded to students who rank highest in the admission process and commit to full-time dedication to the program.

Scholarships are distributed based on the final rankings from the admission process, prioritizing candidates with exceptional academic performance and a clear commitment to their research and coursework. Recipients of these scholarships must adhere to the program's guidelines, including exclusive dedication to their studies and research activities.

While not guaranteed for all students, this financial support helps top-performing candidates focus entirely on their academic and scientific development.

 

RESEARCH AREAS

The Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) focuses on interdisciplinary research across strategic scientific fields. The main research areas include:

  • Structural Analysis of Chemical Compounds and Drugs

Investigating the molecular structure and properties of chemical substances, including pharmaceutical compounds, using advanced analytical techniques.

  • Molecular Modeling

Applying computational methods to model and predict molecular behavior, enabling insights into reaction mechanisms and the development of novel materials.

  • Environmental Chemistry

Exploring chemical processes in the environment, with a focus on understanding and mitigating the impact of pollutants and developing sustainable solutions.

  • Chemistry of Materials and Polymers

Researching the synthesis, characterization, and applications of materials, including polymers and nanostructured systems, for technological advancement.

  • Synthesis of Chemical Compounds and Biological Evaluation

Developing new chemical compounds with potential biological applications and evaluating their activity and safety.

  • Artificial Intelligence in Chemical Processes

Leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence to optimize chemical reactions, predict material properties, and model complex systems.

  

FACULTY MEMBER

  1. Ademir João Camargo
    • Molecular Modeling
  2. Antonio Carlos Silva Costa Teixeira
    • Environmental Chemistry
  3. Brenno Amaro da Silveira Neto
    • Synthesis of Chemical Compounds and Biological Evaluation
  4. Clodoaldo Valverde
    • Structural Analysis of Chemical Compounds and Drugs
    • Molecular Modeling
  5. Flavio Olímpio Sanches Neto
    • Artificial Intelligence in Chemical Processes
    • Molecular Modeling
  6. Gilberto Lúcio Benedito de Aquino
    • Synthesis of Chemical Compounds and Biological Evaluation
  7. Giuliana Muniz Vila Verde
    • Natural Products Chemistry
  8. Hamilton Barbosa Napolitano
    • Structural Analysis of Chemical Compounds and Drugs
    • Natural Products Chemistry
  9. José Divino dos Santos
    • Molecular Modeling
  10. Luciana Machado Ramos
    • Synthesis of Chemical Compounds and Biological Evaluation
  11. Luciano Ribeiro
    • Structural Analysis of Chemical Compounds and Drugs
    • Molecular Modeling
  12. Maísa Borges Costa
    • Natural Products Chemistry
    • Synthesis of Chemical Compounds and Biological Evaluation
  13. Olacir Alves Araújo
    • Materials and Polymers Chemistry
  14. Renato Rosseto
    • Environmental Chemistry
    • Materials and Polymers Chemistry
  15. Roberta Signini
    • Environmental Chemistry
    • Materials and Polymers Chemistry
    • Synthesis of Chemical Compounds and Biological Evaluation
  16. Solemar Silva Oliveira
    • Molecular Modeling
  17. Valter Henrique Carvalho Silva
    • Molecular Modeling
    • Artificial Intelligence in Chemical Processes

  

ADMISSION PROCESS

The admission process for the Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) at Goiás State University is detailed in a public call and consists of the following steps:

  • Application Period

Applications are submitted online during the designated period. Candidates must provide all required documents in PDF format, compacted into a single file named after the applicant (e.g., Maria_José.zip).

  • Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in chemistry, physics, biology, pharmacy, engineering, or related fields. Foreign candidates must present equivalent documentation recognized by competent authorities.

  • Required Documents

The application must include:

    • Completed application form (available online)
    • Curriculum Vitae in Lattes format
    • Verified academic documents: undergraduate diploma, academic transcript
    • Proof of identity (e.g., passport for foreign applicants)
    • Supporting documents for curriculum evaluation (e.g., publications, awards)
  • Selection Stages

The selection process is divided into four stages:

    • Curriculum Analysis: Candidates are evaluated based on academic achievements, research experience, and professional activities.
    • English Proficiency Exam: A written test assessing reading and translation skills in English, graded on a scale from 0 to 10.
    • Written Test in Chemistry: Covers general chemistry knowledge through objective questions. A score below 3.0 results in elimination.
    • Interview: Conducted online, focusing on the candidate’s academic background, research interests, and motivation for pursuing the program.
  • Evaluation Criteria

The final score (MF) is calculated using the formula:
MF = 0.30 (Curriculum Analysis) + 0.50 (Chemistry Test) + 0.10 (English Test) + 0.10 (Interview)

Candidates must achieve a satisfactory score in all stages to remain in the selection process.

  • Vacancies and Advisor Selection

Each faculty member offers a limited number of vacancies for new students. Candidates indicate their preferred advisor during the application process. If a vacancy remains unfilled, it may be reallocated with program approval.

  • Key Dates

The process includes specific deadlines for applications, tests, interviews, and final results. The academic year begins with enrollment and orientation, as indicated in the program’s calendar.

  • Additional Requirements for International Students

Foreign applicants must present a temporary visa and demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese (CELPE-Bras certification) within six months of enrollment.

  

CRITERIA TO COMPLETE THE MASTER'S DEGREE IN MOLECULAR SCIENCES

To successfully complete the Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) at Goiás State University, students must fulfill the following requirements:

  1. Duration
    • The program must be completed within a minimum of 18 months and a maximum of 24 months. Extensions may be granted in exceptional cases, provided all coursework is completed.
  2. Credit Requirements
    • Students must complete at least 14 credits in courses and activities.
    • Credits are earned through compulsory courses (e.g., seminars and core courses in the student’s research area) and elective courses.
    • Teaching internship (mandatory for CAPES-funded students) adds 2 credits, consisting of 30 hours of supervised teaching activities.
  3. Qualifying Examination
    • Students must pass a qualifying examination within 18 months of starting the program.
    • The exam involves presenting a manuscript that demonstrates mastery of theoretical and methodological concepts, partial results, and future work plans.
    • A second attempt is allowed if the student fails the first examination.
  4. English Proficiency
    • TOEFL IBT (score ≥ 74.2)
    • TOEFL ITP (score ≥ 500)
    • TOEIC (score ≥ 500)
    • IELTS (score ≥ 6.0).
    • Students must demonstrate reading proficiency in English through an exam or present a valid certificate such as:
  5. Final Dissertation
    • A written dissertation
    • A submitted article (minimum Qualis B5 rating in the program’s area)
    • A patent application.
    • The dissertation must be an original contribution to the field and can include:
    • The dissertation defense is conducted publicly before a panel of at least three examiners, including one external member. Approval is contingent on unanimous agreement.
  6. Publication or Patent Submission
    • Students must submit proof of an article submission (or publication) or a patent application to obtain their degree.
  7. Final Document Submission
    • Students must submit corrected copies of their dissertation in print and electronic format within 90 days of defense approval.
  8. Academic Performance
    • Students must maintain a passing grade (A, B, or C) in all courses. A grade of D or three grades of C leads to dismissal from the program.
    • A minimum attendance of 75% is required for all classes and activities.
  9. Administrative Requirements
    • Fulfill all administrative obligations, including clearing outstanding library accounts.
    • Provide necessary documentation for diploma issuance.

  

LIST OF COURSES IN THE GRADUATE PROGRAM IN MOLECULAR SCIENCE

Compulsory Courses

  1. MOL 503-01: Seminars
    • 2 credits (30 hours)
  2. MOL 504-01: Advanced Chemical Thermodynamics
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  3. MOL 507-01: Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  4. MOL 502-01: Advanced Quantum Chemistry
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  5. MOL 625-01: Advanced Organic Chemistry
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  6. MOL 501-01: Reaction Mechanisms in Organic Chemistry
    • 4 credits (60 hours)

Elective Courses

  1. MOL 603-01: Crystallography of Small Molecules
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  2. MOL 604-01: Spectroscopy
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  3. MOL 606-01: Introduction to Polymer Science
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  4. MOL 607-01: Introduction to Structural Crystallography
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  5. MOL 608-01: Introduction to Nanotechnology
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  6. MOL 609-01: Methods of Molecular Dynamics
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  7. MOL 610-01: Methods in Quantum Molecular Mechanics
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  8. MOL 611-01: Programming in Molecular Sciences
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  9. MOL 623-01: Chemical and Biological Prospecting of Cerrado Plants
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  10. MOL 612-01: Advanced Computational Chemistry
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  11. MOL 613-01: Medicinal Chemistry
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  12. MOL 615-01: Seminars II
    • 2 credits (30 hours)
  13. MOL 616-01: Advanced Techniques for Water Treatment
    • 4 credits (60 hours)
  14. MOL 618-01: Topics in Statistical Mechanics
    • 4 credits (60 hours)

  

LIVING IN ANÁPOLIS: A GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

When moving to Anápolis to join the Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM) at Goiás State University, international students will find a vibrant city offering a high quality of life and an excellent environment for academic and personal growth.

  

Quality of Life

Anápolis is a medium-sized city known for its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and friendly atmosphere. It boasts a well-developed healthcare system, public and private schools, and a variety of leisure options, including parks, shopping centers, and cultural venues. The city’s climate is pleasant, with warm temperatures year-round, making outdoor activities enjoyable.

Housing Options

International students have a variety of housing options in Anápolis, particularly in neighborhoods close to the CCET/UEG campus. The most popular areas include:

  • Jundiaí: Known as one of the most upscale neighborhoods in Anápolis, Jundiaí offers modern apartments and houses, proximity to parks, restaurants, and shopping centers, as well as a peaceful environment. Rental prices here range from $150 to $250 USD per month.
  • Cidade Jardim: This neighborhood is a favorite among students due to its cost-benefit. It offers a mix of apartments and shared housing options, with rentals typically between $120 and $200 USD per month.
  • Nearby Neighborhoods (e.g., Maracanã and JK Nova Capital): These areas also provide excellent housing options at moderate prices, with rental costs varying from $100 to $220 USD per month.

These neighborhoods are conveniently located near amenities such as supermarkets, pharmacies, and bus stops, making daily life easier for students. With various price points, they accommodate different budgets while ensuring proximity to the campus and essential services.

Transportation

Anápolis offers a well-organized public transportation system centered around the Central Bus Station, located in the downtown area. This hub connects buses from all neighborhoods to the UEG CCET campus, ensuring reliable and straightforward travel for students.

The two main bus lines connecting the Central Bus Station to the CCET campus are:

  • 3120 - UEG via Jundiaí: This route passes through the Jundiaí neighborhood, making it an ideal choice for students living in this area.
  • 3125 - DAIA Trevo Final via Jundiaí: This line also serves the Jundiaí neighborhood and provides convenient access to both the campus and nearby industrial areas.

Bus fares in Anápolis are around $1.00 USD per trip, with monthly passes available for frequent travelers.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Anápolis is affordable compared to larger cities in Brazil. Approximate monthly expenses for a student include:

  • Rent: $ 100–300 USD
  • Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $ 50–85 USD
  • Groceries: $ 100–135 USD
  • Transportation: $ 50–60 USD

Overall, students can expect to spend around $ 335–500 USD per month, depending on their lifestyle.

   

CONTACT INFORMATION

For inquiries about the Graduate Program in Molecular Science (PPGCM), please use the following contact details: 

  • Program Director: Prof. Dr. Valter Henrique Carvalho Silva
  • Email: ppgq@ueg.br
  • Instagram: @cienciasmoleculares

 Feel free to reach out for more information about the program, admission processes, or research opportunities!