Biochemistry

Biochemistry explores the molecular mechanisms that underlie life, examining how proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates are structured and how they carry out the chemical reactions that sustain biological function. It is an interdisciplinary science that combines chemistry and biology at the molecular level, and its insights drive the development of new medicines, diagnostic tools, agricultural improvements and biotechnological applications. Understanding biochemistry is central to understanding health, disease and the potential to intervene therapeutically.

At the University of Exeter this three-year programme develops your scientific knowledge and practical skills in a research-active environment with strong connections to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and biomedical sectors. You will study protein structure and function, enzyme catalysis, molecular genetics, cell signalling, metabolism and the experimental techniques that underpin modern biochemical research. A sandwich year gives you a substantial period of professional experience in a biochemistry, pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting, and work placements and a year abroad are also built in, giving you multiple opportunities for professional development and international scientific experience.

Exeter's approach to biochemistry education combines rigorous science with an emphasis on developing the research skills that both industry and academia look for.

Graduates of biochemistry work in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in drug discovery, development, quality assurance and regulatory affairs. Academic and government research institutes, clinical biochemistry in the NHS and diagnostic companies are further employers. The strong foundation in chemistry and biology also opens paths into food science, environmental science and science communication.

Many graduates go on to postgraduate study or doctoral research in biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology or a related life science, while others pursue professional programmes in medicine, veterinary medicine or dentistry where the scientific training provides a strong foundation.