About Us

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology investigates the relationships of chemical structure to the function of biological compounds. To achieve these goals, biochemistry uses a specific approach that combines basic principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics to dissect complex biological processes. Over the past 50 years the biochemical approach has been spectacularly successful in providing fundamental explanations for biological events. Technologies based on biochemistry are used in all areas of biological and biomedical science. investigating simple life forms has helped us to understand similar processes in complex organisms, and has resulted in the emergence of common themes in metabolism and in the structure and function of biologically important molecules. This knowledge allows biochemists and biomedical scientists to develop or improve pharmaceutical, industrial, bio-technological and food products and to monitor biological processes. It assists biomedical scientists and physicians to define the normal state, to describe the biochemical and molecular basis of disease and to improve diagnosis and therapy.

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is in the Faculty of Medicine but offers BSc programmes through the Faculty of Science as well as MSc and PhD programmes through the Faculty of Graduate Studies. The Department offers 4-year Advanced Major and Honours BSc programmes that specialize in biochemistry. Co-op option which includes four work placements and takes an extra half year to complete.

Biochemistry requires a good foundation in chemistry, biology and related subjects. In the first year students study chemistry, biology, mathematics and physics. This is expanded in the second year with classes in organic, physical and analytical chemistry, cell biology, genetics and microbiology as well as introductory biochemistry. In subsequent years, advanced level classes focus on different aspects of biochemistry such as molecular biology, protein chemistry, hormone action, metabolism and intracellular communication. In addition, relevant classes in related subjects are available (for example neurobiology, pathology, pharmacology, physiology, immunology, microbiology, and more advanced chemistry).

Career Opportunities

These degrees open the door to a variety of careers. Many biochemistry graduates find employment in government and industrial laboratories. Government laboratories are concerned with monitoring policies and research in agriculture, fisheries and forestry. The RCMP employs biochemists in forensic science laboratories. There are also opportunities in clinical diagnostic medicine in hospitals and in the numerous companies now providing diagnostic procedures. The pharmaceutical, brewing and food processing industries employ biochemists. Monitoring and control of pollution are also expanding fields for biochemists. Recent advances in molecular biology and genetics has given biochemistry a major role in the biotechnology industry. The creation of many jobs at the BSc level is expected as the biotechnology industry moves from a research base to a manufacturing base. Biochemistry will continue to be a very good preparation for the professions of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy. Opportunities exist in Universities and Research Institutes for biochemists with post graduate degrees.