To The Biochemistry Program HomePage at A joint program of the Departments of Biology and Chemistry . Biochemistry is the study of the structures and chemical reactions found in living systems. Early attempts to explain observations that allowed processes occurring in living systems to be distinguished from those that occurred in systems that were not alive required invocation of mystical vital forces. Current attempts recognize that the laws of chemistry and physics remain inviolate and new technologies exploiting those laws have produced powerful methods for studying the regulation of enzyme systems and cellular processes. Furthermore, the linking of the laws with the new methods has created a family of tools that have opened up experimental approaches that could not have been dreamed of only yesterday.
Biochemistry is now in an explosive growth phase.
The biochemistry program consists of basic courses in calculus, biology, chemistry and physics along with advanced courses in all of these disciplines and speciality biochemistry courses offered jointly in the Biology and Chemistry Departments. Ample opportunity is provided for a research program with individual faculty members both in biology and chemistry whose interests lie in the discipline. Research Opportunities and Honors in the Major. Junior and Senior Biochemistry majors in good standing are encouraged to participate in ongoing research in the laboratory of any of the biochemistry faculty. Formal registration is required and written permission of the faculty member and a biochemistry advisor necessary.