Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of how living organisms work at the molecular level. It lies at the interface of many disciplines, incorporating principles of chemistry, biology and physics.

School of Molecular Bioscience website

What do biochemists do?

Biochemists are highly sought after in a wide variety of national and international research laboratories, in hospitals and industry. They work in organisations which include medical and agricultural research institutes; biotechnology companies; hospitals; diagnostic laboratories; universities; schools; the pharmaceutical industry; the biotechnology industries and the food manufacturing industries.

Biochemists are interested in the molecular changes which occur within organisms: the conversion of food to cellular components; the provision of energy to drive bodily processes; the chemical nature of genes and the way in which these define and control biological processes.

One of the most stimulating and positive aspects of biochemistry and molecular biology is the increasing interaction with medicine. Biochemists and molecular biologists study the molecular basis of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, cystic fibrosis and AIDS, leading to definitive diagnosis and towards the development of cures.

Studies in biochemistry form an ideal base for graduate research in molecular biology and genetics, nutrition or professional graduate entry programs, such as the university’s medical and dentistry programs.

What will you study?

In your first year, as a foundation, you will study chemistry, molecular biology and genetics and biology. In later years the focus moves towards biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics, and nutrition units.

Some example units include:
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry–Genes; Molecular Biology and Biochemistry–Proteins; Nutrition and Metabolism; Human Molecular Cell Biology; Medical and Metabolic Biochemistry; Proteomics and Functional Genomics

Honours

An honours year comprises a project within one of the research laboratories within the school, a small coursework module and participation in the school seminar program.

Advanced units

All units are available at advanced level to selected students. The advanced programs offer the opportunity to explore particular topics in greater depth within a small-group environment.

Further studies

If you wish you pursue a career in biomedical research, you may choose to continue to postgraduate studies within the school in the PhD by research program.