Biochemistry
Bachelor of Science
Advance the understanding of the chemical and molecular interactions that govern living organisms.
Biochemistry, the study of the molecular basis of biological processes in living organisms, seeks to explain how atoms interact to build the biomolecules necessary for life. Your opportunities for experiential learning include undergraduate research (on campus, across the U.S., and abroad), problem-based learning, and internships. Be prepared for careers and graduate studies in research, business, law, education, medicine, pharmaceutical sales, and other health-related professions. Biochemistry makes important contributions to the fields of medicine, agriculture, nutrition, and criminal justice.
Highlights
Conduct research with faculty during your very first year at Nazareth
Gain hands-on experience with research-grade, state-of-the-art instrumentation and cadaver work (rare for undergrads in higher ed)
Naz alumni regularly go on for a free-ride science doctoral degree, earning a stipend
Present research at local, regional, & national American Chemical Society sessions
Career Paths
- Medicine
- Environmental science
- Research
- Biomedicine
- Pharmaceuticals
- Drug manufacture and design
- Agricultural research
Employers and Graduate Schools
- Yale University
- University of Rochester School of Medicine
- University of Connecticut Health Center
- Oregon Institute of Technology
- University of North Carolina
- Syracuse University
- University at Buffalo
900
square-foot general biology lab
Top 20
ranked science labs in the nation by The Princeton Review
ACS
Approved by the American Chemical Society.
Changemaking
Community service opportunities include mentoring young students at the Rochester Museum and Science Center and Lab Day.
Undergraduate Research Topics
- HIV drug therapy
- Cancer research
- Tobacco smoke exposure
- Dopamine receptor research
Program Director
Alumni Spotlight
Molly Kingsley '13, scientist at Gritstone Bio, Cambridge, MA, working on immunology discovery to help design new vaccines for cancers and infectious diseases
“The independent research opportunities make the Naz biochemistry program particularly strong. I jumped into research during my freshman year (how to make biodiesel fuel using Tungsten-based catalysts) and learned how to ask scientific questions and then design experiments to answer them. Asking good questions is one of the most valuable skills a scientist needs. At Naz you will get to drive your project; you won’t be working under (or for) a graduate student. I did 3.5 years of independent research (including two summers), completed a math minor, and was able to spend a semester abroad in Italy. Right from day one, Naz heard my goals and helped me figure out a way to do it all.”