Undergraduate - Area of study Biochemistry

Biochemistry deals with the chemical components and genetic material of living cells in order to understand the molecular events that underlie all biological processes. These are important in human and animal biology, medicine, agriculture, forensic science and biotechnology. Biochemistry opens up our understanding of the causes of disease and provides the basis of the development of effective treatments.

Learning outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

• demonstrate broad knowledge of the biomolecules, machinery and information flow within living cells, and an appreciation of how these underpin all biological processes, in both normal and diseased states
• demonstrate knowledge of key facets of modern biochemistry including: proteins and structural biology, bioinformatics, advanced molecular biology, cell organisation, signal transduction and its role in diseases such as cancer; and the identification of drug targets
• demonstrate proficiency in core biochemical laboratory techniques, understanding both the principles and applications of these methods within the molecular biosciences
• demonstrate familiarity with the risk assessment process, and use this information to operate safely in the laboratory environment
• collect, organise, analyse, evaluate and interpret biochemical data using appropriate quantitative, technological and critical thinking skills
• critically evaluate relevant scientific data and literature and comprehend the nature and scope of the scientific literature in biochemistry and related areas
• communicate biochemical principles and information effectively to diverse audiences, using a variety of formats
• work and learn effectively, both independently and collaboratively, in a manner that respects the needs and views of others.