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Chemistry & Biochemistry

Chemists and biochemists study the fundamental processes that govern the natural world, including atomic structure and how atoms interact to form molecules and materials. They study the mechanisms of chemical processes, including those that underpin living systems such as the transfer of information from DNA to RNA to proteins. They work to develop simplifying models (theories) that permit the correlation and explanation of observations about the behavior of matter. Chemical principles are fundamental to the understanding of subjects ranging from the molecular biology of life to the structure of rocks and minerals.

Learn more on the BYU Chemical Engineering Website

Chemistry and biochemistry provide an essential foundation for the medical sciences, engineering (especially chemical engineering), electronics, energy, environmental sciences, materials science, pharmacy, and virtually all manufacturing processes.

Chemistry and biochemistry are active branches of science that are vital to human existence. Inasmuch as the field embraces all aspects of the material world, it is subdivided into five areas of interest. Examples of these diverse areas include the regulation of protein synthesis, cellular signal transduction at the molecular level and proteometrics (biochemistry), design and synthesis of medicinal compounds (organic chemistry), design and synthesis of new molecular structures and materials (inorganic chemistry), spectroscopic study of energy transfer and molecular structures (physical chemistry), and analysis of medicinal compounds, biological materials, and contaminants or trace elements found in the environment (analytical chemistry).

Chemistry and biochemistry involve far more than test tubes and beakers. They include sophisticated methodologies such as recombinant DNA technology, working with a variety of instruments such as mass spectrometers, calorimeters, chromatographs, ultracentrifuges, lasers, X-ray diffractometers, electron microscopes and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, all of which are used by undergraduate chemistry and biochemistry students at BYU. Computers also play an important role in these disciplines, with applications varying from simulation of molecules to the collection and analysis of data. The chemistry and biochemistry curricula are both rigorous and intellectually rewarding.

Career Services
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Todd Russell Pic
Career Director, Engineering & Technology

todd_russell@byu.edu
(801) 422-7591

Click here for List of Majors
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Derek Jack

Career Director, Education

derek_jack@byu.edu
(801) 422-4780

Click here for List of Majors
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Programs
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Chemistry & Biochemistry Clubs

BYU MMBio Academic Association

January 24, 2022 04:51 PM
To build connections, create research opportunities, and prepare for postgraduate programs and careers.

Relevant Programs: Biology

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American Institute of Chemical Engineers

January 19, 2022 04:41 PM
The objectives of this chapter shall be (1) to promote the professional development of its members by its programs and by its relations with other students chapters and with the parent body, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers; (2) to contribute to the development of chemical engineering at Brigham Young University; and (3) to uphold the standards of Brigham Young University.

Relevant Programs: Chemical Engineering

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Click below to explore Chemistry & Biochemistry research and research opportunities at BYU.

Chemistry & Biochemistry Research