Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the chemistry of life, the science that investigates the molecular processes underlying biological systems. It asks how cells capture and use energy, how genetic information is stored and expressed as proteins, how enzymes catalyse the reactions that sustain life, and how molecular signals control development, immunity, and disease. These questions sit at the foundation of modern medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology, and the insights biochemistry has provided over the past century have transformed our ability to develop drugs, diagnose disease, engineer microorganisms for industrial purposes, and understand the molecular basis of heredity.

At Middlesex University, this three-year programme includes a foundation year that provides the scientific grounding needed to enter the biochemistry degree proper, making the programme accessible to students who may not have the traditional qualifications for direct entry. The programme also includes a sandwich year with work placement, giving you significant professional experience in a research, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology setting before you complete your degree. Through your studies you will cover the molecular biology of the cell, protein structure and function, metabolism, genetics and genomics, and the biochemical basis of disease, alongside laboratory skills that include standard molecular biology techniques, spectroscopy, and data analysis.

Biochemistry graduates move into careers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries in roles focused on drug discovery, analytical chemistry, quality control, and process development. Research positions in academic and clinical laboratories, roles in clinical biochemistry and pathology services within the NHS, and careers in food science, environmental science, and science communication are other common paths. The sandwich placement often leads to a graduate position with the same or a related employer.

Postgraduate study in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a clinical or healthcare science specialism is a natural next step for those aiming at research careers or senior scientific roles.