Biochemistry

In the .

In addition to the concentration requirements outlined below, all students must complete the Biological Sciences foundation requirements:

The diversity of biochemistry is illustrated by the breadth of the research interests of the faculty associated with the Biochemistry concentration. These interests range from biophysics and biophysical chemistry through molecular and cellular biology. A biochemist must have an excellent grounding in the physical sciences as well as in biology. Students in this concentration are encouraged to enroll in the more rigorous course sequences in chemistry and physics and to take at least three semesters of mathematics. Courses at the advanced level are open to upper-class students as well as graduate students, and a one-credit seminar course in an area of biochemistry is offered each semester.

Biochemistry is an experimental science and students are encouraged to carry out independent research projects under faculty supervision. By performing research, a student gains a deeper understanding of an area as well as an appreciation of the experimental scientific process. Faculty members pursue a large variety of projects in their laboratories, using many different techniques. Faculty research interests include regulation of gene expression, genetic engineering, properties of transformed cells, membrane structure and transport, structure and function of proteins and the cytoskeleton, photosynthesis and oxidative phosphorylation, and chromosome structure. Viruses, microbes, yeast, animal cells in culture, and higher plants are used in the research programs of faculty members in biochemistry.

A number of the graduates from the Biochemistry concentration will continue their training in graduate school or in medical or veterinary colleges. Holders of a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry are needed in academic, industrial, and government laboratories. Biochemistry is a rapidly evolving discipline that is attracting increasing interest from many industries, including pharmaceutical houses, chemical concerns, and food processors.

Biochemistry Requirements

All requirements must be taken for letter grade unless the course is offered S/U only. Exceptions to the grading option and any course substitutions must be approved via the biological sciences petition. Students are encouraged to discuss exceptions and course substitutions with their faculty advisor prior to submitting petition.
A grade of D- or better must be obtained to count course for concentration.
A minimum of 16 credits of concentration requirements.

Students electing this concentration should be sure to complete - or during their first year. Students concentrating in Biochemistry should not take , Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry. Also note that our concentrators are required to complete an organic chemistry laboratory course (either or ).

General Chemistry:

Organic Chemistry:

Organic Chemistry Lab:

5 credits of Biochemistry:

PCHEM and Cell biology:

Laboratory course in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology:

Biochemistry Concentration Curriculum Learning Outcomes

After completing the concentration in Biochemistry, students will be able to:

Summarize the fundamentals of biochemistry, including the structure and function of macromolecules, the expression of genes, the organization of metabolic pathways, and the mechanisms enzyme action.
Use quantitative reasoning to solve biochemical problems by employing the basic principles of physical and chemical sciences.
Design of experiments that underpin biochemical generalizations, possess basic biochemical laboratory skills, use modern instrumentation and techniques, as well as interpret and analyze data from biochemical experiments.
Communicate the fundamental concepts of biochemistry, both in written and oral forms.
Read and critically evaluate the primary scientific literature in biochemistry.

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