Biochemistry Major
Biochemistry is the study of the chemistry of life. Students in biochemistry will study the chemistry of molecules found in living organisms, particularly proteins, DNA/RNA, lipids and carbohydrates. The biochemistry major emphasizes the integration of chemical principles into biological systems and includes a chemistry based curriculum with a strong biology component that will provide the student with a solid background in both chemistry and biology.
Through theoretical studies and laboratory experience, biochemistry students learn valuable critical thinking skills, analysis and instrumentation, literature search and oral presentation skills. The biochemistry major prepares students for graduate study in biochemistry or related fields, medical, dentistry or veterinary school, or entry level biochemical positions in the academic, government or industrial sector.
Conducting Research with Faculty/Specialized Courses
Juniors and seniors can participate in independent study or conduct research projects with faculty. Corporate internships are also available. Study results have been presented locally and regionally with several leading to publication. The following specialized courses move beyond foundation courses:
Forensic Science: Students will apply theory and applications to analyze chemical, physical, and biological evidence encountered in simulated crime scenes.
Heterocyclic Chemistry: A course not normally found at the undergraduate level, it focuses on compounds of interest to pharmaceutical corporations.
Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory: Students will gain hands-on experience with some modern and advanced biochemical techniques.
Toxicology: Students will learn of the nature, mode of action, and means of counteracting substances that are harmful to biological systems.
Technical Information: This class provides students with a base to conduct searches of the scientific literature. Also discussed and practiced are computer-assisted techniques for rapid retrieval of technical and patent data.
Advanced Laboratory and Research: Exploring unanswered biochemical/chemical questions and learning instrumental techniques.
Expanding Horizons through Internships
Paid internships are strongly encouraged. They can be conducted in the
field during the summer and academic school year in varied academic
settings and with industry. Summer research fellowships at large
universities are also available. Some recent summer internships have been
at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Rockefeller University, University of
Pittsburgh, Wyeth-Ayerst, and Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
Opportunities exist to work within the department as lab assistants where
students will assist professors in preparing solutions and equipment for
lab and will assist in laboratory instruction.
