BIOCHEMISTRY

Professor Gail Steehler, Coordinator; Assistant Professor Addington

Biochemistry is one of the most important interdisciplinary fields in science today. Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes of living organisms, including the molecular structures of biomolecules, their reactions (e.g. metabolism, genetic expression), and regulation of those reactions. The biochemistry curriculum at Roanoke includes substantial curricular components from both the biology and chemistry departments. Opportunities for Biochemistry graduates include graduate study in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry, employment in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries, or pursuit of a professional degree in a medical field. Biochemistry is one of the courses of study available to students interested in medical school, veterinary school, dental school, and other health professions.

The Biochemistry Major

Students earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree by completing 12 units. The courses are:

CHEM 110 or 111 & General Chemistry 112

BIOL 120 & 215

Introductory Biology: "Principles of Biology" and "Components of Life"

CHEM 221 & 222

Organic Chemistry I and II

CHEM 341 & 342

Biochemistry I and II

BIOL 390 & 400

Advanced Biology: "Advanced Cell Biology" and "Molecular Biology"

CHEM 331

Physical Chemistry

CHEM 280 & 480

Sophomore Seminar & Senior Seminar (each 1/2 unit)


Math 121 and 122 and two units of general physics are prerequisites for CHEM 331, which is required for all biochemistry majors.

Biochemistry majors are strongly encouraged to do research. Faculty with currant biochemistry research interests includes Dr. Addington, Dr. Booth, Dr. Gardner, Dr. Jorgensen, Dr. Oetgen, Dr. Pysh, Dr. Ramesh and Dr. J. Steehler. Students planning graduate work are encouraged to strengthen their programs of study by including a second semester pf physical chemistry, a semester of analytical chemistry, and additional courses in cell or molecular biology.