Biochemistry

Biochemists are the locksmiths of life science. They use their imagination, ingenuity and understanding of the basics of living processes to unlock life's mysteries.

By unraveling the complexities of nature, they improve the quality of life.

If you're interested in combining the tools of biology, chemistry and genetics to fight human disease, increase the production and quality of food, and protect the environment, then a career in biochemistry is right for you.

Career Opportunities

A bachelor's of science degree in biochemistry from the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) will provide you with all the skills you'll need to succeed in a wide variety of biochemistry careers.

You can individualize your degree to fit the career field that most interests you. The knowledge you'll acquire will prepare you for any number of careers in many industries, including:

• Medicine. Your biochemistry degree will prepare you well for the rigors of the medical profession. Your training will give you the background you'll need to succeed as a physician, dentist, optometrist or veterinarian.
• Biotechnology. Some of the nation's largest and most respected private biotechnology companies, such as Bayer, Johnson & Johnson, and Pfizer, often employ biochemists in a wide range of specialties, including molecular biology, genetic engineering, pharmaceutical development and microbiology.
• Agriculture. Biochemists find employment with agricultural industry companies such as Cargill, Monsanto and Novartis. They develop new varieties of crops that resist drought and insects, produce pharmaceutical compounds or tolerate herbicide application.
• Government. State and federal agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Energy and the Missouri Department of Agriculture employ biochemists in many fields. They might research biological alternatives for reclaiming sites contaminated with radioactive material or search for ways to protect against food-borne pathogens.

Research/Internship Opportunities

As a biochemistry student, your chances to gain real-world field experience through research and internships are as varied as the genes and proteins you'll study.

Work side-by-side in the laboratory with biochemistry faculty and get hands-on with research in gene function and regulation, photosynthesis, cancer and recombinant DNA.

Opportunities exist for on-campus internships and part-time employment as lab technicians, both of which provide valuable experience, especially if you're interested in pursuing a professional career in biochemistry.

Get Involved on Campus

Want to have fun and develop your leadership skills and professional contacts at the same time? Then join one or more of the College’s student clubs and organizations. There are more than 30 to choose from, and each gives you the opportunity to apply what you’re learning in the classroom while making lifelong friends.

As a biochemistry student, you might consider joining:

Biochemistry Club members participate in social and professional activities that provide opportunities to interact with biochemistry professionals, discuss current topics in the field and learn more about possible career options. The club sponsors speakers, takes field trips and participates in other college activities.

Biochemistry Department
117 Schweitzer Hall, 573-882-4845

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