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).

Professors

Amasino, Rick
Attie, Alan
Bednarek, Sebastian
Butcher, Sam
Cox, Mike
Craig, Elizabeth
Fox, Brian (Chair)
Friesen, Paul
Holden, Hazel
Kimble, Judith
Landick, Bob
Martin, Tom
Ntambi, James
Palmenberg, Ann
Pike, Wes
Ralph, John
Rayment, Ivan
Record, Tom 
Rienstra, Chad
Senes, Alessandro
Sussman, Mike
Wickens, Marv
Wright, Elizabeth

Associate Professors

Henzler-Wildman, Katie
Hoskins, Aaron

Assistant Professors

Cantor, Jason  
Coyle, Scott 
Grant, Tim
Kirchdoerfer, Robert 
Lim, Ci Ji 
Raman, Vatsan
Romero, Phil
Simcox, Judith 
Venturelli, Ophelia
Weeks, Amy

Associate Faculty

Pennella, Mario
Shu, Erica