Biochemistry
Unlock discoveries at the intersection of biology and chemistry
Are you curious about what makes life tick, all the way down to the molecular level? As a Biochemistry major at Simmons, you’ll explore life’s processes through biology and chemistry. You’ll apply theories and techniques from both fields to understand how living systems function.
Join a field that drives advances in medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and nutrition. Our program emphasizes one-on-one mentorship with professors, who guide you throughout your academic journey. You’ll work in a faculty research laboratory and gain hands-on experience uncommon at the undergraduate level.
Our bachelor of science degree is built on a strong foundation of materials science, sustainability, and green principles. We instill these ethics throughout our curriculum and research. As a women-centered program, we are committed to advancing women and gender equity. We'll give you the space and opportunity to reach your potential as a scientist and researcher.
A Biochemistry degree also can lead to careers in healthcare and medicine. See where a bachelor's degree can take you through our Pre-Health Professions Track program.
Why study Biochemistry at Simmons?
Simmons offers an integrated, rigorous program that includes foundational course work in chemistry, biology, and physics.
Topics you’ll explore include:
- Life sciences
- Microbiology
- Organic chemistry
- Molecular biology
- Thermodynamics and kinetics
- Quantitative analysis
You'll engage in advanced coursework and activities outside the classroom. These include opportunities to conduct individual research projects or join a research team. To enhance your skills, we also offer in-depth instrument or technique training.
Your advisor will help you tailor a program that fits your interests and career goals. This might include a dual major, an accelerated program, or a complementary minor.
What can you do with a BS in Biochemistry?
Simmons University's Biochemistry degree combines chemistry and biology to prepare you for careers and advanced study in science and technology.
Our graduates thrive in careers in environmental science, medical research labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare. Many pursue graduate and doctoral programs in fields like medicine, genetics, and molecular biology.
What Our Students Say
I wanted to be able to build relationships with teachers and peers, and have a sense of community. Simmons really stood out to me. The professors genuinely care about their students.
- Maryona Vicente '25
I’ve always been interested in science and the way things work. One-on-one time with professors and smaller classes, that’s the best learning environment for me.”
- Aseya Mahamed ’27
Almost every semester I took research courses (CHEM 150 or 250), which can be done for credit or not for credit. It’s amazing to be able to work in a lab under the supervision of one of our STEM professors.
- Reagan Cleversey ’26, Biochemistry major
Spotlight on Biochemistry, Chemistry, & Biology Students and Alums
3+2 Engineering Student Researches Ultrasound Technology
Maya McCabe ’27 is a biochemistry major and physics minor in the dual degree (3+2) engineering program. She spoke with us about her research funded by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation and the hands-on STEM training she is receiving at Simmons.
Six Students Selected for the 2026 Senior Scholar Award
Six graduating seniors have been selected for the prestigious Senior Scholar Award at Simmons University. Sponsored by the Provost’s Office and the Office of Research and Fellowships, the Senior Scholar Award recognizes outstanding scholarly research and creative works across a variety of disciplinary fields.
Meet Our 2025–26 Bonner Community Leaders
The Bonner Community Leaders Program is a unique opportunity for students who want to combine a strong commitment to service with personal growth, teamwork, leadership development, and scholarship. This academic year, Simmons announced a new cohort of Bonner Leaders including Ammy A. Cardenes Santana ’29, Gulsah Cayan ’29, Lily-Rose O’Brien ’29, and Mackenzie Oprea ’29.
Pre-Dentistry Students Doing Ultrasound Research at Simmons
Biochemistry majors and pre-dental students Aseya Mahamed ’27 and Kamryn Sanborn ’28 are researching the use of high-intensity ultrasound for the non-invasive treatment of endodontic infections at the Biomedical Ultrasound Lab.
Dix Scholar Studies Parkinson’s Disease
Dix Scholar and biology major Ann Paim ’26 came back to school to cultivate her love of science. We spoke with her about her research on Parkinson’s Disease and the faculty support she receives at Simmons.
Celebrating the 2025-26 Passionate Leaders Scholars
Six undergraduate scholars from different disciplines have been selected for a $3,000 grant that supports student-driven initiatives focused on advancing scientific research and improving communities, and represents unique voices through the arts and humanities.
Exploring Internships, Locally and Abroad
Maryona Vicente '25, a biochemistry major on the pre-med track with minors in business and health care management, engaged in unique internship opportunities while at Simmons, locally and abroad.
Congratulations to the 2025 SURPASs Scholars
Eight undergraduate scholars from disciplines across Simmons have been selected to join the Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Simmons (SURPASs). SURPASs students receive the necessary funding and mentorship to execute an independent research project of their own design.
Our Faculty
Rich Gurney
Professor and Chair of the Chemistry and Physics Department
Jennifer Roecklein-Canfield
Professor
Arpita Saha
Professor
Cherie Ramirez
Associate Teaching Professor
Joe Elias
Assistant Professor
Meghan Johnston
Associate Teaching Professor and Lab Instrument Manager
Shreya Bhattacharyya
Associate Teaching Professor, STEMM Education Program Director, and Clare Boothe Luce Professor
Michael Paul
Associate Teaching Professor