Undergraduate Research
We strongly encourage all undergraduate biochemistry majors to take advantage of research opportunities. Performing research allows you to apply principles learned in the classroom to a research problem. Your experience in the lab, working with a faculty mentor and with graduate students and post-docs, will provide you with invaluable experience as a member of a research group. The experience will also enhance your understanding of biochemical principles covered in advanced courses, further preparing you for graduate work or a career. Graduate programs and prospective employers place strong emphasis on undergraduate research experience.
You can receive Biochemistry Specialized Curriculum course credit for research by taking BIOC 199, MCB 290, BIOC 492, or any combination of these. Before enrolling, you must identify a Biochemistry faculty member who will supervise your research. Start by reviewing the research interests of our faculty.
Biochemistry 199
Independent Written Study (not a laboratory experience)
BIOC 199 provides an opportunity to receive credit for a literature survey or library individual study project conducted under the direction of a Biochemistry faculty member.
MCB 290
Independent Laboratory Research
MCB 290 provides Biochemistry majors an opportunity to receive credit for a supervised laboratory research project conducted under the direction of a Biochemistry faculty member.
Biochemistry 492
BIOC 492 is an opportunity to work in a research laboratory during your senior year. The experience is valuable especially if you are considering professional or post-graduate education. Participation in the program is contingent upon completion of the Biochemistry core courses (MCB 354, BIOC 406, and BIOC 455). It is strongly recommended by our faculty that, during either your junior or senior year and before taking BIOC 492, you enroll in Biochemisty 460, our Senior Seminar on Writing in Biochemistry.