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• McIntyre Medical Building, 9th Floor
• 3655 Promenade Sir-William-Osler
• Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6

• Christine Laberge, Student Affairs Officer
• Telephone: 514-398-2423
• Email: christine.laberge [at] mcgill.ca
• Website: www.mcgill.ca/biochemistry

Biochemistry is the application of chemical, genetic, and biophysical approaches to the study of biological processes at the cellular and molecular level. We are interested in, for example, mechanisms of brain function; cellular differentiation; energy utilization by animals and microorganisms; and in the molecular basis of inheritance and disease. The researcher seeks to determine how specific molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, vitamins, and hormones function in various cellular processes. Particular emphasis is placed on the regulation of reactions in living cells. The knowledge and methods developed by researchers are applied in all fields of medicine, in agriculture, and in many chemical and health-related industries. Biochemistry is unique in providing basic theoretical training, as well as basic practical laboratory training and research in both enzymology and genetic engineering, which are the two basic components in the rapidly expanding field of Biotechnology.

There are three programs offered by the Department of Biochemistry: Major, Honours, and Liberal. The Major and Honours programs provide a sound background for students who wish to have a professional career in biochemistry, and can lead to postgraduate studies and research careers in hospital, university, or industrial laboratories. The Liberal program is less specialized, offering students opportunities to select courses in other fields of interest.

During the first year, each program provides basic training in organic, physical, and analytical chemistry, as well as in biology and physiology. The Honours and Major programs become more specialized in biochemistry during the following two years, with additional work in chemistry and biology.

Students interested in pursuing an ad hoc Joint Major or Joint Honours degree between Biochemistry and a second discipline may consult with our Chief Academic Adviser, Dr. Albert Berghuis (albert.berghuis [at] mcgill.ca).

The increasing involvement of complex technology in modern society requires personnel trained in both chemistry and biology. With the advent of biotechnology, the combination of chemistry, molecular biology, enzymology, and genetic engineering found in the biochemistry program provides the essential background and training. The researcher is in an advantageous position to fulfil this role and assume a wide variety of positions in industry and the health field. These positions include: research and development in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries; testing and research in government and hospital laboratories; and management. Many graduates pursue higher degrees in research and attain academic positions in universities and colleges.

New students interested in Biochemistry should refer to our website for information regarding orientation and program advising: www.mcgill.ca/biochemistry/undergraduates/advising.

Returning students must schedule an advising appointment directly with the academic adviser assigned to them in their first year in Biochemistry.