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 the lens of biology and chemistry. You’ll apply theories and techniques from both fields to understand how living systems function.
Join a field that is a driving force in advancing the fields of medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and nutrition. Our program emphasizes one-on-one mentorship with professors, who will 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’s-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 experiences include opportunities to conduct individual research projects or participate as a member of a research team. To enhance your skills, we also offer opportunities to explore in-depth instrument or technique training.
Your advisor will help you tailor a program of study 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?
Our degree in biochemistry 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.
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
Spotlight on Biochemistry Students and Alums
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.
Six Students Selected for the 2025 Senior Scholar Award
Ginjer Doherty ’25, Aviva Foster ’25, CJ Haggard ’25, Theo Hatfield ’25, Lili Malatinszky ’25, and Grace Walters ’25 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 across different disciplinary fields.
Honoring the National Day of Racial Healing
January 21, 2025 — the day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day — is the ninth annual National Day of Racial Healing (NDORH). Created by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, NDORH "is an opportunity to engage in collective action to create a more just and equitable world."
Simmons Biochemistry Alum’s Nonprofit Celebrates 10-year Milestone
Oksana Hradyska ’12 recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of her successful non-profit, Sitters for Scholars. Hradyska founded the organization as a free babysitting service in 2014, in response to the lack of affordable and reliable childcare for parents attending college. The services were later expanded for low-income, single-parent families.
STEM Student Receives Research Scholarship from American Chemical Society
Biochemistry major and Literature and Writing minor Reagan Cleversey ’26 received the competitive James Flack Norris / Theodore William Richards Summer Research Scholarship from the American Chemical Society. She spoke with us about her passion for medicinal chemistry and the importance of mentorship.
Debora Edouard ’24 and Kadijah McClean ’24 Open Simmons Chapter of the National Society of Black Women in Medicine
Established in 2017, the National Society of Black Women in Medicine is committed to increasing the recruitment and retention of Black women pursuing careers in the medical field. This academic year, Neurobiology major Debora Edouard ’24 and Biochemistry and Public Health minor Kadijah McClean ’24 co-founded the Simmons chapter of the Society.
Congratulations to the 2024 Senior Scholars
The annual Senior Scholar Award is sponsored by the Provost's Office and the Office of Research and Fellowships. The award recognizes six graduating seniors for their outstanding scholarship and contribution to a field of study.