Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of how living organisms work. It lies at the interface of many disciplines, incorporating principles of chemistry, biology and physics. One of the most rapidly advancing areas within biochemistry is molecular biology. Biochemists are interested in the molecular changes which occur within organisms; the conversion of food to cellular components, the provision of energy to drive bodily processes, the chemical nature of genes and the way in which these specify and control biological processes. Biochemists study the nature of disease and undertake the design of drugs and production of vaccines and human hormones. One of the most stimulating and positive aspects of biochemistry is its increasing interaction with medicine. Biochemists study the molecular basis of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, cystic fibrosis and AIDS, and this enables definitive diagnosis and development of cures.

www.mmb.usyd.edu.au

What biochemists do?

Biochemists work at the forefront of scientific research. Because of the fundamental nature of biochemistry, biochemists are involved in almost every aspect of biological endeavour. Jobs for biochemists are exciting because the nature of the work is continually changing.

Biochemists work in organisations which include the food manufacturing industries, biotechnology companies, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, universities, schools, the pharmaceutical industry, agriculture and research institutes. You can major in biochemistry in the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Medical Science and Bachelor of Liberal Studies as well as in the Molecular Biology and Genetics program.

What will you study?

FIRST YEAR
Students study first year chemistry and maths and molecular biology and genetics. Most students also choose to study first year biology, physics and/or computer science.

SECOND YEAR
Topics covered include: the structure and function of proteins and enzymes; the structure; replication and expression of genetic material; protein synthesis; the basic chemical constituents of living matter; the breakdown of energy-rich fuel molecules to provide energy; the synthesis of biological molecules and the storage of fuels; and the response of fuel breakdown and storage pathways to different physiological situations.

Biochemistry is taught together with microbiology and genetics in second year.

THIRD YEAR
The laboratory classes offer students the experience of real experimental science and are an excellent training in practical skills. The lectures include more advanced molecular biology, immunology, structural biochemistry of macromolecules, biochemical signal transduction, cancer, cellular organelles, regulation of metabolism, aspects of nutritional biochemistry, functional genomics and proteomics.

FOURTH YEAR
After third year, many students continue to an Honours degree, during which they undertake a research project, working in one of the research laboratories.

Biochemistry at Sydney
Biochemistry at Sydney in the School of Molecular and Microbial Biosciences is popular and attracts many talented students. It is well-equipped and wellfunded for teaching and research. There are five main research areas with several active groups in each including:

• proteomics
• structural and physical biochemistry
• molecular and cellular biology
• metabolic and medical biochemistry
• human nutrition and dietetics