Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
We provide a rigorous foundation of coursework in physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics, all brought together in the expanding fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. Our major is all about “doing science.”
Why Choose a Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology?
Our interdisciplinary curriculum will prepare you for careers in biochemical and biomedical research, biotechnology, and genetic engineering, and is ideal for those planning to go on to graduate programs in biochemistry or cell/molecular biology as well as medical, dental, or veterinary schools. We help you develop critical-thinking skills, oral and written communication skills, and a deep understanding of science’s most fundamental questions, all of which is necessary for whatever comes after graduating with your bachelor of arts degree.
What You’ll Study
Our interdisciplinary program provides students with rigorous training in biology and chemistry. The curriculum is built around a core series of courses covering structural and metabolic biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and organic chemistry. These courses provide hands-on training in posing hypotheses, designing experiments to test them, and data analysis. A diversity of elective courses are offered—including medicinal organic chemistry, developmental biology, neurobiology, and behavioral genetics—to let students specialize and pursue their individual interests.
Many of our students earn course credit toward their degree while on an overseas program. In addition to general cultural programs that are open to all students, the Berlin program offers an optional chemistry emphasis with an upper-level biochemistry course as part of the curriculum.
Outside the classroom, students are encouraged to participate in research during the academic year with a faculty member through the Independent Study and/or Senior Research classes. Students may also apply to join a research team and get paid through the Rogers Summer Science Program. Our program also hosts a seminar series that brings scientists to campus to discuss their cutting-edge research.
Complement Your Education With One of These Minors
The most popular minors for our biochemistry and molecular biology majors are data science, health studies, and neuroscience.
What Students Are Saying About Lewis & Clark
Jack Waite BA ’23More about JackAs a full-time summer research intern, I am studying the ways in which cells have evolved to selectively turn on and off genes under different conditions. The best part has been learning to conduct scientific research independently.
Mollee Chenoweth BA ’22More about MolleeAll my professors have played an important role in my education, not just academically but also by offering direction and support for life outside academics.
Polly Ren BA ’25More about PollyBCMB is a major that involves many experiments, which I love. It allows me to release my imagination to set up a hypothesis and use my knowledge and effort to solve any difficulties I face.
What Can You Do With a Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology?
Our alumni use their bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology to build careers at companies such as Gilead, Genentech, Transcriptic, FEI, and Impossible Foods. Others use their BA to pursue advanced degrees with the goal of becoming practitioners in the health sciences or researchers in biochemistry, molecular biology, or cell biology. Some receive competitive fellowships from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.
Dedicated Faculty
Our expert professors are your expert mentors. You will learn directly from faculty (no graduate assistants here!) that are nationally recognized in their fields of study and who love to work with and learn from their students. Your professors will inspire you to be a thoughtful and passionate participant in a diverse world. Your small classes will support you as you explore new ideas, find your voice, and speak your truth.
Biochemistry and molecular biology faculty rely on their students to be collaborative researchers in the lab, a rare opportunity for many undergraduates. Students are frequent coauthors on peer-reviewed faculty publications and professional presentations.
Invest in Yourself
A private liberal arts education is often more affordable than you think. Last year, Lewis & Clark distributed over $74 million in assistance from institutional, federal, state, and private sources. Additionally, we’re so confident that our first-year students will graduate with their bachelor of arts degree in four years that if you don’t, we’ll cover the extra semester of tuition.
Find Your People
Students can join a variety of student-run organizations that relate to their biochemistry and molecular biology major, like Math Club, Physics Club, and Pre-Health Club. Don’t see what you’re looking for on the club list? Start something new and build your own community of peers!
Where Lewis & Clark Will Take You
Holly Hale BA ’19More about HollyLewis & Clark prepared me for my career by helping me develop a strong work ethic. I learned to wear many hats and balance responsibilities accordingly. My job is very dynamic, and I am grateful to already have the skill set needed to manage different roles and tasks.
Simran Handa BA ’19More about SimranMy classes in biochemistry and molecular biology provided a great foundation for me to take intellectual ownership of the projects I’m working on. Because I understand the logic behind a lot of the experiments, I’m able to offer creative input, which is awesome for a technician position.
Jackson Thein BA ’18More about JacksonI get to draw on my biochemistry, epidemiology, and public health L&C background pretty significantly in the work that I do with Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley’s office.
Featured News
Q&A with Jean-Philippe (J.P.) Gourdine, Assistant Professor of Biochemistry
Assistant Professor of Biochemistry Jean-Philippe (J.P.) Gourdine’s research in glycomics brings exciting opportunities for students, and allows strong connections to data science and health studies.
