Biochemistry Program

Undergraduate Research
For many Biochem majors, research is the capstone of their undergraduate experience. The research lab is THE ultimate classroom. Working as part of a research team is fun and teaches valuable skills and life lessons. Find out more about student research in Biochemistry.
From STEM Scholars to STEM Educators
UVM Noyce Scholars Follow Their Passion to Teach
Our schools face a shortage of highly qualified science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and computer science teachers. The NSF’s Robert Noyce Scholarship Program aims to address this. At UVM, more than 60 Noyce Scholars have earned their master's degree and licensure to teach in high need school districts across Vermont and nationwide. Read more of Doug Gilman's story.
Lian, Stein, and Cushman Ranked Among Top Scientists in U.S.
A new online ranking of the top female scientists in the United States conducted by Research.com includes three members of the University of Vermont faculty. Mary Cushman, M.D., M.Sc., professor of medicine, was ranked 124th nationally and 193rd in the world. Jane Lian, Ph.D., professor of biochemistry, was ranked 194th nationally and 305th in the world. Janet Stein, Ph.D., professor of biochemistry, was ranked 265th nationally and 430th in the world. Read about their many accomplishments.
by Jennifer Nachbur
The Firestone Medical Research Building
Dedicated during the height of the pandemic, The Firestone Medical Research building represents the university’s and college’s commitment to research excellence, student success, patient care, and community service. UVM President Suresh Garimella underscored how advanced research technology housed in the new building provides an example of this commitment. “The work that happens on this campus every day—in every college and school—directly impacts the quality of life for people near and far,” said Garimella. “The Center for Shared Biomedical Resources is a key example of our institution bringing into being a resource for the entire region, beyond just those directly connected to UVM. Researchers at other institutions and in state government will be able to take advantage of the technology at the center.” Read the full story by Jennifer Nachbur.
LEARNING THE LANGUAGE OF SCIENCE
Nata Dudkina '19, a native of Azerbaijan, has worked in Professor Severin Schneebeli’s lab since her junior year. This research experience was key to her admission into a chemistry Ph.D. program at Yale.
Medicine for Humankind
Ben Teasdale’s path to an M.D. brings him across the disciplines and around the world

Biochemistry is an interdisciplinary field where scientists apply fundamental knowledge in chemistry to understand biological processes.

Biochemists study the molecular interactions that guide many processes involved in living organisms. This involves exploring the underlying chemical and physical properties of these organisms, from metabolism and enzyme kinetics to gene transfection and cellular signaling. A variety of career options await biochemistry majors after graduation. Most recent graduates have moved on to: positions in the biotech industry, graduate school to further their education, or medical school.

By virtue of its interdisciplinary nature, the undergraduate biochemistry program is a collaborative endeavor for three departments: Biochemistry, Chemistry, plus Microbiology and Molecular Genetics. Students can pursue the major as a member of two different colleges: College of Arts and Sciences and College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Foundational Coursework

Your biochemical training will start in both the classroom and laboratory. Biochemistry majors begin with fundamental coursework in: biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. The core of the major is three biochemistry courses that cover the most significant concepts and laboratory techniques in the field: BIOC 3005, BIOC 3006, and BIOC 3007. Finally, a student can personalize their education by selecting from a wide variety of laboratory and lecture electives offered throughout the university.

Research Opportunities

Many biochemistry majors get heavily involved in research at UVM. Students can work with any faculty member in the Biochemistry, Chemistry , or Microbiology & Molecular Genetics departments. They also work with researchers throughout the university engaged in biochemical research.

Find out more about undergraduate research opportunities in biochemistry.

Career Opportunities

In recent years, most biochemistry majors have pursued one of three paths following graduation. Students who wish to immediately enter the workforce have successfully secured jobs in the biotech sector. Students who wish to further their knowledge of biochemistry before pursuing a position in industry or academia have moved on to graduate school. Finally, a number of students pursue professional training in the health sciences via medical or dental school.