Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
What is Biochemistry and Molecular Biology?
The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major is a partnership between the Biology and Chemistry Departments. Beginning coursework combines basic classes in chemistry and biology. In the third and fourth years you get to choose courses that best match your interests and career plans. If you want to pursue a career in biotechnology, biochemistry, or healthcare, this is the field for you.
Courses of Study
We offer a major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Related Programs
Course Highlights
BIOL B216 Genomics
An introduction to the study of genomes and genomic data. This course will examine the history of this exciting field, the types of biological questions that can be answered using large biological data sets and complete genome sequences as well as the techniques and technologies that make such studies possible. Topics include genome organization and evolution, comparative genomics, and analysis of transcriptomes, with a focus on animal genomics and humans in particular.
CHEM B242 Biological Chemistry
The structure, chemistry and function of amino acids, proteins, lipids, polysaccharides and nucleic acids; enzyme kinetics; metabolic relationships of carbohydrates, lipids and amino acids, and the control of various pathways.
CHEM B515 Modern Medicinal Chemistry
A survey of topics related to drug discovery including lead discovery, target interactions, structural optimization, drug metabolism and drug synthesis. The course will engage in an advanced treatment of these topics with particular attention to an understanding of drug design and development on the molecular level. Case studies will be used to illustrate the application of these principles. Discussions may include OxyContin and related opiate analgesics; aspirin and related NSAIDs; penicillin and other antibacterial agents; Tamiflu and related anti-virals; Alzheimer's disease drugs; and anti-depressants.
Lia Wong-Fodor '26
Faculty Spotlight
Tamara Davis
Eleanor A. Bliss Professor of Biology and Director of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Professor Davis' work focuses on how genes are inherited and expressed in mammals. She works with her undergraduate research assistants to understand more about how and why epigenetic changes happen.
A Bright Future
How biochemistry and molecular biology grads are lighting their paths
Suli Kamholtz-Roberts '26"Dr. Plummer believes in all of us so deeply. She makes you think you can do anything."
Opportunities in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Research
Our professors in the biochemistry and molecular biology program are always working with student researchers to better understand our world in ways that affect real change. Once you've declared, you can reach out to find out more about research assistant and summer science research positions.
Internships
Many biochemistry and molecular biology students work on research on campus with professors, but that isn't the only opportunity available. As a major, you can also take on internships with other organizations. Recent majors have interned with cancer centers and children's health institutes.
Study Abroad
If you're feeling some wanderlust, you can still major in biochemistry and molecular biology. With careful planning and permission from your advisor, you can spend a semester in your junior year studying abroad.
Facilities
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology FAQ
Do you have questions about biochemistry and molecular biology? Here are some answers.
Biochemistry and molecular biology is a major that combines both biology and chemistry. Our program is taught by both chemistry and biology professors. The chair of the program, Tamara Davis, is from the Biology Department and the major advisor, Lisa Watkins, is from the Chemistry Department.
No, that would be redundant, as the courses overlap.
You can, but you should talk to your professors from both departments about your goals before doing so. A biochemistry and molecular biology major is likely your best option.
No. Biochemistry and molecular biology requires several introductory courses in both chemistry and biology before you can begin studying the subject in earnest. By the time you have your foundation in both topics, you would have taken too many courses for a minor. Therefore, biochemistry and molecular biology is only offered as a major.
Yes, you can, assuming that you started taking your introductory classes as a first year. Talk to your advisor about your study abroad semester early so that you can make a plan to complete your major on time.
STEM News
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology are part of a rich community of STEM research at Bryn Mawr College. Here's what's going on:
Contact Us
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Park Science Building
Bryn Mawr College
101 N. Merion Avenue
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Phone: 610-526-7392
Fax: 610-526-5086
agallaghe1@brynmawr.edu