Biochemistry is a very broad science that studies the molecules and chemistry of life. Biochemistry focuses on the structure, properties, and interactions of molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, sugars and lipids. Biochemistry’s aim is to understand how these molecules participate in the processes that support the various functions of the living cell. These studies are therefore essential for understanding disease and finding cures, for improving agriculture and the production of food and biofuels, and to produce innovation in biotechnology.
Whereas other biological science majors may focus on cellular, organismal or population level biology, biochemistry focuses on processes that occur at the molecular to cellular levels. Therefore, this major has a greater focus on basic and quantitative sciences, such as math and, particularly, on chemistry.
Biochemistry graduates go on to a variety of careers in science and science-related fields. The major is designed to fit the needs of the student who wishes to achieve bachelor’s-level training as well as those planning to pursue graduate or professional study. The degree serves as an excellent background for medical school or veterinary school admission, as well as for graduate study in biochemistry or other allied fields (biology, bacteriology, genetics, molecular biology, or oncology).
People
Professors
Amasino, Rick
Attie, Alan
Bednarek, Sebastian
Butcher, Sam
Chaudhari, Snehal
Fox, Brian (Chair)
Friesen, Paul
Henzler-Wildman, Katie
Holden, Hazel
Hoskins, Aaron
Kimble, Judith
Landick, Bob
Ntambi, James
Ralph, John
Rayment, Ivan
Rienstra, Chad
Senes, Alessandro
Sussman, Mike
Wright, Elizabeth
Associate Professors
Raman, Vatsan
Assistant Professors
Cantor, Jason
Chaudhari, Snehal
Coyle, Scott
Grant, Tim
Kirchdoerfer, Robert
Lim, Ci Ji
Neugebauer, Monica
Simcox, Judith
Weeks, Amy
Associate Faculty
Pennella, Mario
Shu, Erica
Academic Advisors
Biochemistry & Microbiology Undergraduate Advising Hub
For more information, see the Department of Biochemistry directory.