Are you fascinated by all living systems? Are you curious to know how life works on the molecular level? Do you dream of helping to solve global health issues? Would you like to assist creating alternative food or energy sources? Does a career in medicine or pharmacology interest you?
Biochemistry is the study of all living systems at the molecular level. It looks at the chemical and physical basis of life and how these systems interact with their environments.
It is a demanding field that combines expertise in the biological sciences, chemistry, physics and mathematics. Versatility and intense curiosity are the hallmarks of successful biochemists, as they draw on knowledge from a variety of fields to investigate the molecules that facilitate life.
From the structure, function and dynamics of molecular machines to the complex regulation of metabolic pathways and biological processes, biochemists study the extraordinary molecules that are produced and utilized by living systems. As a consequence, many of the most spectacular advances in the sciences are driven by discoveries in biochemistry.
Biochemistry will help you develop a strong background in the basic sciences and extensive laboratory skills while emphasizing the chemical and physical basis of life. As a biochemistry student, you will gain hands-on experience with the latest tools and technology used in chemistry, physics and biological sciences, such as molecular biology, protein crystallography and advanced biophysics. You will also develop skills in molecular techniques like DNA sequencing, gene cloning and enzymology.
Additionally, you will have access to state-of-the-art science and research facilities. These facilities support the research interests of our award-winning faculty — your instructors — as they investigate diverse areas such as cancer research, toxicology, crystallography, bioinformatics and molecular modelling, as well as applied research in medicine, disease research and food development.
Biochemistry Degree. The Departments of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Biological Sciences jointly offer a multi-disciplinary major in bochemistry for the 40-course Bachelor of Science (BSc).
Biochemistry Courses. Course selections for the program will vary, but may include:
Core Courses
• Introductory Biochemistry
• Bioenergetics & Metabolism
• Cell & Molecular Biology
• Nucleic Acids
• Genetics
• Microbiology
Other Courses (not a complete list)
• Methods in Biochemistry
• Genome Maintenance
• Developmental Biology
• Analytical Chemistry II
• Inorganic Chemistry I & II
• Intro to Physics or Biophysics
Minors. Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Minors are not available in all programs.
Learn more at ulethbridge.ca/artsci/minors
Honours Thesis. If you are a motivated student, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.
Learn more about biochemistry at ULethbridge, visit ulethbridge.ca/biochemistry
Faculty members are happy to involve undergraduate students in their research projects, often collaborating with other departments, community members and employers on research projects. That gives you the opportunity to experience discovery-based research as well as forge contacts with prospective employers.
You may also have the opportunity to participate in external studies or gain employment with local researchers at the Federal and Provincial research agencies or in private industry.
Current Research & Areas of Interest:
• Antibiotics & Bio-Nanomachines
• RNA Structure & Function
• Biochemical Systems
• RNA Processing Enzymes
• Cellular Protein Factories
• Plant Hormones
• Cellular Effects of Ionizing Radiation
• Genetic & Molecular Mechanisms
• DNA Repair & Genome Stability
• Plant Development & Pattern Formation
• Cancer Research Formation
• Carbon Utilization
Faculty members often give lectures and lab tours for visiting student groups. They also serve as judges in science fairs, answer questions from the public and give interviews to local, national or international media.
The department is actively involved in local schools through chemistry shows, and the student-led Let’s Talk Science initiative.
Finally, the department is involved in the annual Chinook Symposium for Chemistry & Biochemistry, which showcases student research projects at the undergraduate and graduate level, with significant prizes awarded to the winners.
Skills Acquired. In addition to developing exceptional communication skills, you will develop critical and analytical problem-solving capabilities, research and information management skills and improve your attention to detail. You will leave the program with a strong ability to summarize research findings, extensive laboratory experience, as well as in-depth knowledge of scientific issues.
Related Fields. Biochemists are employed in virtually all areas of the life sciences as a result of their strong foundation in the basic sciences and extensive laboratory experience. Here are just a few of the career options open to you once you’ve earned your degree:
• Laboratory Scientist
• Laboratory Technician
• Research Assistant
• Agricultural Chemistry
• Soil Science
• Food Technology
• Biotechnology
• Bioenergy
• Forensic Science
• Drug Development
• Toxicology
• Pathology
• Commercial Research
• Academia
Graduate Studies. The University of Lethbridge’s School of Graduate Studies offers graduate programs at the Master and Doctoral levels, spanning over 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at ULethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.
Professional Disciplines. Your undergraduate degree in biochemistry provides an excellent foundation for medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, dentistry and research.
“Studying biochemistry at the University of Lethbridge has allowed me to build my knowledge and skills as a scientist while also giving me the opportunity to contribute and get involved with the university‘s research projects.”
- Tanner, Biochemistry
Ignite your passion in Biochemistry.
University of Lethbridge
4401 University Drive
Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4
403-329-2301
biochemistry@uleth.ca
ulethbridge.ca/biochemistry
Academic Advising
SU060
Students’ Union Building
403-329-5106
artsci.advising@uleth.ca
ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising
Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects or by testing your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the opportunities outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career — whatever direction you decide to go.
Earn course credit for career-related paid, volunteer or community service work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies
ULethbridge is proud to offer you the chance to participate in co-op. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a co-op designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kickstart to your career the minute you graduate.
For more information, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop
In addition to your regular courses, you can contribute to departmental research activities. For example, you can complete an independent study course or gain employment as a research assistant. If your GPA is high enough, you can also enrol in undergraduate thesis-based courses where research is a component of your studies.
Contact your department to learn more!
Your decision to explore a university education is the first step toward a great future — now let us help you navigate your degree options at ULethbridge and set you on the road to success. Do you have questions about what field of study best suits you? Would you like help with program and registration planning and just can’t find the answers? If so, you should speak to an academic advisor today — advisors have the answers to these questions and many more.
To learn more about the support services available to you through our academic advisors, visit: ulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising