Chemistry and Biochemistry

Professor Schlax; Associate Professors Côté, Koviach-Côté (chair), and Laurita; Assistant Professors O’Loughlin and Piedmonte; Visiting Assistant Professors Pazienza and Sommer

Chemistry deals with phenomena of matter and energy that affect nearly every aspect of our lives and environment. A chemistry education explores the theories, laws, applications, and potential of this science. Biochemistry encompasses the study of the form and function of the proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids found in living organisms. Traditionally, biochemistry has been an interdisciplinary field, drawing on techniques and expertise from physics, medicine, biology, and chemistry.

The department offers a major in chemistry, a major in biochemistry, and a minor in chemistry. The chemistry and biochemistry curricula are sufficiently flexible to allow students with career interests in areas such as the health professions, research, law, business, and education to design a suitable major program. Students interested in careers in chemistry or biochemistry will find chemistry electives that provide a background for work in graduate school, industry, or other positions requiring a strong foundation in chemistry.