Biochemistry
About Biochemistry
Biochemistry is the field of chemistry that deals with the chemical compounds and processes that occur in plants, animals, and microorganisms. Specifically it involves the analysis of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, which comprise the basic constituents of cells. The work of biochemists goes towards, for example, mass-producing chemicals that are usually found in the body in very tiny amounts. Such chemicals have been helping diabetics and heart attack victims for years. They also work to discover the full genetic code of humans (the Human Genome Project), and create genetically engineered crops that are supposed to be more resistant to adverse weather conditions, spoilage, disease, and pests.
Program Details
Biochemistry can also be studied as an elective in programs in biology, chemistry, microbiology and immunology, and physiology. UBC's Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program is housed in the Faculty of Medicine and focuses on the biochemistry of the human body.
Skills
- Analytical method development or validation
- Advanced quantitative and qualitative analytical skills
- Logical and systematic critical thinking Integration of appropriate theories with laboratory tools or procedures
- Drawing connections across complex processes
- Collaboration with laboratory teams across disciplines
- Technical skills in ELISA, PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, western blots, southern transfers, DNA hybridization, protein assays, and enzyme digests
- Usage of specialized instruments like pH meter, IR, and UV/VIS spectrophotometers
Programs offered
- Major or Honours, Biochemistry
- Co-op
Resources
Career Options
With an undergraduate degree
- Clinical research assistant
- Forensic laboratory analyst
- Lab assistant/technician
- Medical and clinical lab technologist
- Pharmaceutical sales representative
- Science journalist
With additional study
- Analytical chemist
- Bacteriologist
- Biochemist
- Biomedical engineer
- Cytotechnologist
- Doctor
- Dentist
- Epidemiologist
- Food scientist
- Forensic scientist
- Genetics counselor
- Health officer
- Medical geneticist
- Patent attorney
- Pharmacist
- Teacher
- Toxicologist
- Veterinarian
UBC Science Biochemistry Graduates Work As
- PhD Candidate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia
- Associate Attorney, Sullivan & Cromwell LLP
- Dentist, Baker Hill Dental Clinic
- Medical Student, University of British Columbia
- PhD Candidate in Membrane Biology, University of Alberta
- Graduate Student in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota