Major
Biochemistry is the study of how living organisms work at the molecular level. It is an interdisciplinary major, incorporating principles of chemistry, biology and physics. It looks at the structure, function and interactions of biological molecules, the nature of genetic material and control of its expression, and leads to an understanding of the molecular structure of living things. One of the most stimulating and positive aspects of biochemistry is its increasing interaction with medicine. Pursuing a career as a biochemist could see you working on the biochemistry of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, cystic fibrosis and AIDS, to enable definitive diagnosis and development of cures.
About this major
FIRST YEAR
Students undertake required junior units of study in chemistry, mathematics and molecular biology and genetics, and also normally undertake units of study in biology, physics, or computer science.
SECOND YEAR
Intermediate study includes the structure and function of proteins and enzymes, protein synthesis, the breakdown of energy-rich fuel molecules to provide energy, the synthesis of biological molecules and the storage of fuels, and the response of fuel breakdown and storage pathways to different physiological situations.
THIRD YEAR
Laboratory classes offer students the experience of real experimental science and training in practical skills for senior study in molecular biology, immunology, the structural biochemistry of macromolecules, aspects of metabolic biochemistry, functional genomics and proteomics.
EXAMPLE UNITS
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry - Genes
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry - Proteins
Human Molecular Cell Biology
Medical and Metabolic Biochemistry
Proteomics and Functional Genomics
Graduate opportunities
Biochemists work at the forefront of scientific research in organisations which include the food manufacturing industries, biotechnology companies, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, universities, schools, the pharmaceutical industry, agriculture and research institutes.
Career pathways
Courses that offer this major
Units of study in this major
The course information on this website applies only to future students. Current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.
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