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Biochemistry

Undergraduate Major & Minor College of Natural Sciences

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Biochemistry at PLU dives into the molecular foundations of life – where chemistry and biology connect to explain how living things function. You’ll explore how the building blocks of life power everything from metabolism to medicine. This field also drives breakthroughs in forensic science, healthcare, biotechnology, and research – and you’ll learn the foundational skills to be part of that progress.

Through hands-on lab experiences, you’ll use the same advanced tools and techniques that professionals use to solve real-world problems. This degree path offers tailored coursework and research opportunities that prepare you for graduate study, medical or professional schools, and careers in science and industry.

If you’re curious about how life works at its smallest scales – and how that knowledge can make a big impact – biochemistry at PLU is the perfect place to start.

Skills you'll gain from this program:
  • Molecular Lab Techniques — Gain hands-on experience with advanced tools like chromatography and spectrophotometry to analyze biomolecules.
  • Chemical and Biological Integration — Understand how chemistry and biology connect to explain life’s processes — from metabolism to medicine.
  • Experimental Design and Data Analysis — Design experiments, collect data, and interpret results to uncover how molecular systems work.
  • Quantitative and Critical Thinking — Apply chemistry, biology, and math to solve real-world scientific problems.
  • Scientific Communication and Collaboration — Develop the ability to share complex research clearly in writing and presentations while working effectively in team environments.

Graduates from the last 5 years: Their jobs

  • Specimen Processing Specialist, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
  • Laboratory Technician, Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research
  • Teacher, Clover Park School District
  • Postdoctoral Researcher, Stanford University
  • Chemist, Water Management Laboratories
  • Inorganic Laboratory Chemist, Specialty Analytical
  • Compounding Pharmacy Technician, Excel Pharmacy

Graduates from the last last 5 years: Their graduate programs

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Washington State University
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of California - San Diego
  • Medical School, University of Washington
  • Master of Science in Biotechnology, Johns Hopkins University
  • Doctor of Pharmacology, Cornell University
  • Master of Science in Medicinal Chemistry, University of Toledo
  • Master of Science in Chemistry, Texas A&M University
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Everyone is really supportive, especially the biochemistry faculty. I feel like I’m getting a real well-rounded skillset that’s going to help me go into my field.

— Mal R. ’27

Along with the technical experience that I gained, I think that my experience with Dr. Yakelis helped me understand the type of problem-solving that research requires.

— Grady L. ’25

Doing summer research played a vital role in shaping my post-graduation plans, particularly in pursuing a Ph.D. in organic chemistry. It helped me gain practical skills in creating new synthetic methods, deepened my love for organic chemistry, and gave me confidence for the challenges ahead.

— Fani D. ’24

It never ceases to amaze me how my students transform into young scientists through their work in the lab during our summer research program at PLU.

— Neal Yakelis, Professor of Chemistry

Hands-On Research

Biochemistry students can participate in PLU’s Natural Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Program, which involves working with PLU professors on research projects (and getting paid for it!).

Get Involved

A favorite event on campus each year is Mole Day Eve, hosted by PLU Chemistry Club, with hands-on chemistry activities, demos, and a periodic table of brownies!

6
%

Employment of biochemists is projected to grow 6 percent between now and 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. —U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Access to Advanced Instrumentation

Work with the same professional-grade equipment found in industry labs.

Professor of Chemistry Neal Yakelis leads his students in summer research in the Rieke Science Center
Student’s work together in Tina Saxowsky’s CHEM 405 class titled “Biochemistry II
Student solving an equation at the board
Students gather in between Morken and Rieke to tie-dye lab coats and other garments
A student and a professor having a conversation in front of a poster
Student speaking in front a white board
A group of student summer researchers, lead by Assistant Professor of Chemistry Angie Boysen, take water samples on the Puget Sound