Biochemistry

In Year 1 you’re provided with an integrated foundation to the subject, including the key elements of biochemistry, which introduces molecular and chemical aspects of life sciences. Weekly academic small-group tutorials are central to our courses and provide you with an opportunity to discuss the subject and develop your scientific understanding.

In Year 2 the focus is on in-depth study of the major areas that underpin modern biochemistry, which covers biological membranes and cell signalling, molecular genetics, theory and application of modern biochemical techniques, and molecular pathologies of human diseases, protein folding and genetic engineering. You will further develop your laboratory skills and take greater responsibility for your experimental design. The degree offers the opportunity to apply for an industrial or study abroad year at the end of Year 2.

In Year 3, you will develop specialist knowledge that will enable you to better understand current research in biochemistry and molecular biology. This is accompanied by lectures based on advanced topics which enable students to study subjects most relevant to their interests. These topics range from molecular basis of innate immunity, oncogenes and tumour suppressors to directed evolution and molecular motors.

You will undertake an independent or group research project, which further develops your analytical skills, and study advanced biochemistry topics that allow you to follow your specialised interests.

Integrated Masters (MBiol)

The first two years of the MBiol course are identical to the BSc degree. In year 3, you will have the chance to study advanced biochemistry topics and a skills module. You will undertake advanced research practical training, which develops tailored biochemistry skills and provides the opportunity to become familiar with the cutting-edge research facilities available at Leeds. In Year 3, you'll begin preparing for your extended research project in Year 4 by undertaking a literature review of the subject.

In Year 4, you’ll undertake an extended research project in the research laboratories under the supervision of one of our academics, alongside studying specialist research topics and a skills module which aims to prepare you for life as a professional scientist.

Find out more about choosing between an integrated Masters and a BSc degree

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Introductory Integrated Biochemistry: the Molecules and Processes of Life 60 credits
• Introductory Biochemistry: Practical Skills 20 credits
• Introductory Biochemistry: Problem Solving and Data Handling 20 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Intermediate Integrated Biochemistry 60 credits
• Intermediate Biochemistry: Practicals 20 credits
• Intermediate Biochemistry: Skills 20 credits

Year 3

Compulsory modules

• Advanced Topics in Biochemistry I 20 credits
• Advanced Topics in Biochemistry 2 20 credits
• Advanced Topics in Biochemistry 3 20 credits
• Advanced Biochemistry: Skills 20 credits
• Research Tools and Applications 20 credits
• Extended Research Project Preparation 20 credits

Year 4

Compulsory modules

• Extended Research Project 90 credits
• Specialised Research Topics and Skills 30 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Biochemistry MBiol, BSc in the course catalogue

For more information on typical modules, read Biochemistry BSc in the course catalogue

Broadening your academic horizons

At Leeds we want you to benefit from the depth and breadth of the University's expertise, to prepare you for success in an ever-changing and challenging world. On this course you broaden your learning through core and/or optional modules. Find out more on the Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

You’ll have access to the very best learning resources and academic support during your studies. We’ve been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2017), demonstrating our commitment to delivering consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.

You’ll experience a wide range of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials and practicals. Your first and second years will focus on these three teaching methods, building your skills, understanding and knowledge in preparation for your final year research project, which will see you take on independent research and learning with the guidance of leading experts.

Across all years, additional workshop and seminar sessions will complement your lectures and lab practicals, and you will also undertake private study.

As a guide, a typical week in your first year includes nine to twelve hours of lectures, three to six hours of practical sessions in the laboratory, tutorials, workshop and seminar sessions, plus private study.

Independent study and research are also crucial to every year of the course. We have excellent library and computing facilities to support your learning, and the University Library offers training to help you make the most of them.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations.