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About the Program

Students interested in biochemistry may complete programs leading to an interdisciplinary major in biochemistry, a chemistry major with an emphasis in biochemistry, or a minor in biochemistry, all of which draw from offerings in the departments of biology and chemistry. Consult the course listings for these departments for further information.

The interdisciplinary major in biochemistry and molecular biology investigates biological phenomena at the molecular and chemical levels. The intersection of biology and chemistry provides an integrative focus for understanding the molecular processes of life, and students engage the material using contemporary methods of biochemical analysis and molecular biology. The curriculum consists of required courses which provide a strong background for further study in both fields and electives which allow students to pursue their interests in either biology, chemistry, or both. Although not required, students are encouraged both to take PHYS 150  & PHYS 160  (rather than PHYS 111  & PHYS 112 ) and to pursue a second semester of research.

Students graduating with an interdisciplinary major in biochemistry have a strong foundation for entering graduate and medical schools or industrial positions. However, please note that due to the breadth of the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology, no single curriculum can prepare students for all graduate school programs and industrial positions available in these areas. Therefore, students are strongly encouraged to consult with their advisors when choosing their elective courses so that they will have a background appropriate to pursue their post-graduation goals.

Faculty

• Directors: Adam Cassano, Associate Professor of Chemistry; Stephen Dunaway, Associate Professor of Biology
• RISE Fellows: Arnold Demain, Ronald Doll, Vince Gullo, Barbara Petrack
• Affiliated Faculty: Roger Knowles, Associate Professor of Biology; Joanna Miller, Assistant Professor of Biology; Alan Rosan, Professor of Chemistry

Programs

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Interdisciplinary) Major (BS)

• Biochemistry Minor

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