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Faculty of Arts & ScienceBiochemistry

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?

What do you love?

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 living 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, infections, crystallography, bioinformatics and molecular modeling, 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 biochemistry for the 40-course Bachelor of Science (BSc).

Biochemistry Courses. Course selections for the program will vary, but may include:

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 of interest. 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

Our Faculty & Their ResearchFaculty 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:

Our Community InvolvementFaculty 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. Moreover, the department hosts the highly successful high school and collegiate teams participating in the international Genetically Engineered Machines (iGEM) competitions.

Finally, the department established 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.

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• Organic Chemistry• Intro to Physics or Biophysics

• 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

Biochemistry at uLethbridge

“I chose uLethbridge for the smaller class sizes and the

opportunity to carry out research as an undergraduate

student. I’ve also learned that with more education comes

more opportunities.”- Shey, BSc ‘10

• Laboratory Scientist• Laboratory Technician• Research Assistant• Agricultural Chemistry• Soil Science• Food Technology• Biotechnology

• Bioenergy• Forensic Science• Drug Development• Toxicology• Pathology• Commercial Research• Academia

Ignite your passion in Biochemistry.

Your Future ProspectsSkills 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 an in-depth knowledge of scientific issues.

Related Fields. Biochemists are employed in virtually all areas of the life sci-ences 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:

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.

Discover uLethbridge and apply today, visit

ulethbridge.ca/future-student

University of Lethbridge4401 University DriveLethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 403 329 2301biochemistry@uleth.caulethbridge.ca/biochemistry

Academic AdvisingSU060Students’ Union Building403 329 5106artsci.advising@uleth.caulethbridge.ca/artsci/advising

*This brochure should be used in conjunction with the University of Lethbridge calendar, which is the final authority regarding program requirements and academic regulations.

ulethbridge.ca/future-student

Applied StudiesApplied Studies is a special opportunity offered to all uLethbridge students as a way to 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 on Applied Studies, visit:ulethbridge.ca/appliedstudies

Co-op Education & InternshipsThe Faculty of Arts & Science is proud to offer you the chance to participate in our co-op program — the only one of its kind in Alberta to offer co-op to all majors in arts and science. 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 kick-start to your career the minute you graduate.

For more information on Co-operative Education & Internships, visit: ulethbridge.ca/coop/artsci

Research & Independent StudiesIn addition to your regular courses, you have the opportunity to participate in Independent Studies. You’re able to contribute to departmental activities by volunteering on research projects or through 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. There are field school opportunities available in some disciplines, as well as many opportunities to study abroad.

For current research or independent studies opportunities, contact the department directly.

Put Your Knowledge to WorkWhether 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 programs 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.

Academic AdvisingYour 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