University of St. Thomas

When asked what one phrase best describes the biochemistry major at St. Thomas, a faculty member replied, “outstanding.”

A real student asks:

 

Is biochemistry really as complicated as it sounds? Is it a combination of chemistry and biology, hence the name?

A biochemistry faculty member responds: Yes, biochemistry is primarily a combination of biology and chemistry, but it also draws on other allied disciplines such as physics, mathematics and even computer science. It is the study of the chemistry of biological organisms; protein, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), carbohydrates and lipids are some of the key players, and understanding the properties of these essential macromolecules and how they interact to allow living things to function is a complex, yet fascinating subject.

What jobs are possible with a Biochemistry major?

What are recent graduates doing now?

Kelly Christopherson ’04, graduate school in molecular and cellular pharmacology, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Brian Limmer ’05, dental school, Harvard University

Brandon Goblirsch ’06, graduate school in biochemistry, University of Minnesota

Angela Osmolak ’07, medical school, University of Minnesota

What opportunities are there to bolster my resume while I'm in the program?

Internships. There are a variety of internships available at various local medical and bio-technology companies, such as R&D Systems, Medtronic, 3M, Boston Scientific, EcoLab and the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The biology and chemistry departments have summer research opportunities that also provide critical experience necessary for admission to top graduate and medical school programs.

Study abroad. Biochemistry students who study abroad typically do so in countries such as Italy, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and England. Students may complete some courses within their major but often will fulfill core area requirements. This affords the students a global perspective to the biochemistry major as well as enhances the liberal arts aspect of their degrees. 

Faculty at work

Both the biology and chemistry faculty have active research programs in which there are numerous student collaborations on research projects each year.