While other branches of biology deal with whole organisms, or even groups of organisms, biochemistry explores things on a much smaller level, the molecular level. Biochemists use chemical knowledge and techniques to help understand and solve biological problems. Through biochemistry, researchers have developed drugs to treat conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia. Biochemists have discovered the mechanisms behind many serious diseases, such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, HIV and Sickle Cell Disease.
At UMHB, I’ve been able to form key relationships and find mentors who have helped throughout my journey as a pre-med student. I know I can contact my professors about anything and they will provide me with the tools necessary to achieve my goals.
Why should I choose Biochemistry?
Since biochemistry is the study of life at the molecular level, it provides the foundations for other scientific disciplines, such as genetics, forensics, microbiology, plant science, and medicine.
What are some courses I will take?
- Organic Chemistry
- Practicum in Clinical Chemistry
- Environmental Chemistry
Dr. Ashli Lawson
Bring It On, Baby!
Dr. Ashli Lawson, a 2011 mathematics and chemistry graduate, helps deliver 15,000 new Texans into the world each year. As an Ob-Gyn in training in Dallas, Ashli says the intimate learning environment UMHB provided gave her the roots she needed to become a medical doctor. “When I was a freshman in a general chemistry class, my professor pulled me aside one day and asked what I wanted to ultimately do academically. She told me if I wanted to be a nurse I could, and if I wanted to be a doctor I could, and if I wanted to be a chemist (you guessed it) I could.”
What are some career options?
With a degree in biochemistry, you can follow many career paths:
- Pharmaceutical consultant
- Forensic scientist
- Cancer researcher
- Product developer in cosmetics industry
- Hospital lab technician
- Government advisor on scientific issues
Who is hiring UMHB students?
UMHB Biochemistry students have found success in many different areas:
- Abbott Pharmaceuticals in Austin
- Alcon Contact Lens Products
- Baylor Scott & White Clinic
Where can I go to grad school?
Many Biochemistry students have continued their education at these schools:
- Baylor University
- University of Notre Dame
- University of Texas at Austin
- Texas A&M Medical School
- U. T. Southwestern Medical School
- Texas Tech Pharmacy School
Why study biochemistry at UMHB?
Internships give majors opportunities to work in interesting settings such as the Baylor Scott & White Clinic Cyto-Genetics Lab and the U.S. Department of Agriculture lab in Temple.
Chemistry labs are fitted with outstanding instrumentation: Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, Colorimetry, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Gas Chromatography, High Performance Liquid Chromatography, Magnetic Susceptibility, Mass Spectroscopy, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, pH meters, Potentiostat, and Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometers give majors opportunities to work with instruments they will encounter in the field after graduation.