biochemistry professor

You all worry too much about grades and test scores. Stop thinking like undergrads. We want to see people kick ass in reseach. Now get back to lab. =)

You should talk to your former research advisor about graduate school options. She/he can point you to programs to look more closely at. Also, not all programs require GREs.

I'm on the admissions committee at a state university. I personally don't care that much about grades. Some people aren't good with classes and taking tests but are good with research. If you have made good progress in your research, have the support of your advisor, explain your C's due to family situation, you should be competitive for PhD programs.