Biochemistry BSc (Hons) at University of Liverpool

Biochemistry is the study of molecular structures and interactions in living organisms. Biochemists seek to understand living organisms in terms of chemical reactions.

If you have a natural curiosity for science and a proven understanding of biology and chemistry, coupled with a desire to learn how science can be exploited for the benefit of mankind, then you have a fascinating career ahead of you.

Biochemists are in great demand by employers and this degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills that employers want in medical and agricultural research, the pharmaceutical and other biotechnology industries, as well as in education.

Programme in detail

What is the biochemical basis of disease? How does DNA control our development, our metabolism and our personal characteristics? How do enzymes work and how do hormones control biological function? These are just some of the fascinating questions addressed in this programme.

In Year Three you will have the opportunity to complete a project in one of our excellent research laboratories, in Life Sciences, in our Medical, Veterinary and Dental Schools or even in a local hospital. You will become proficient in IT and will use the latest software to retrieve and analyse data. Communication skills, scientific writing and oral presentation, together with a range of other employability skills are also taught, enabling you to present your findings effectively to a range of audiences.

Career prospects

As a Life Sciences graduate from the University of Liverpool, you will have an excellent set of career options ahead of you. For those committed to a career as a professional scientist, higher degrees (MBiolSci, MSc, MRes, MPhil or PhD) at the University of Liverpool or elsewhere provide a flexible set of options for further study.

In the public sector, Life Sciences graduates are in demand in research institutes, government departments, the National Health Service, forensic science and the Environment Agency. Commercial sectors that actively recruit graduates from the Life Sciences include the pharmaceutical, food, biotechnology, water and agriculture industries.

There is also an increasing demand for life scientists to contribute to the public understanding of science as journalists and information/liaison officers, in view of the ethical and environmental issues that arise, for example, by developments in molecular biology and biotechnology.

A number of routes are available for graduates to enter the teaching profession one of which is taking a postgraduate qualification (PGCE). There are significant financial inducements provided to meet the current demand for science teachers. In addition to all of the opportunities for graduates in general, including careers outside of biology (such as management, accountancy and human resources), where the skills you have obtained in our degree programmes will be of considerable benefit. Our degree programmes are also popular routes to postgraduate Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science.

Recent employers

• AstraZeneca
• BBC
• Blue Planet Aquarium
• Chester Zoo
• Crown Prosecution Service
• Eli-Lilly
• Glaxo SmithKline
• Home Affairs, Security and
• International Development
• United Utilities
• RSPCA
• NHS
• Ministry of Defence
• Unilever
• Vodafone
• Public Health England
• Red X Pharma
• Royal Society of Biology
• The Environment Agency.