Biochemistry

Abstract

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  Biochemistry involves the study of fundamental chemical and physical processes within living organisms. It focuses especially on molecules such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids. The topics studied cover fundamental functional aspects of cells and organisms in the context of human medicine, molecular biology, microbiology, environmental science, industry and biotechnology. Biochemistry encompasses first and foremost the study of enzymes, which are proteins that catalyse chemical reactions. These enzymes form metabolic pathways through which molecular components are synthesised and transformed. The regulation and orchestration of bio-synthetic and bio-degradative pathways, the control of cellular reactions in response to environmental factors, cell division, cellular senescence, and programmed cell death (apoptosis) are all extensively studied topics. Furthermore, since all the information that determines form, growth, as well as distinct biological features, is contained in the DNA of a given species or the respective organisms, the molecular processes that enable duplication, repair, interpretation and modification of genetic material also form an integral part of the theoretical and practical studies in biochemistry.

  It is worth noting that biochemical processes have the enormous advantage of taking place at room temperature and in aqueous solutions. Biochemical methods therefore often allow the production and synthesis of application-oriented molecules in both an elegant and environmentally safe manner. Given the great sensitivity of enzymes, their highly specific role and their power as catalysts, biochemical methods are playing an ever more important role in analytical techniques. The great leaps in progress achieved in pharmacology, medical diagnostics, preventive medicine (vaccination), food technology, agro-chemistry and environmental technology are thus due to a large extent to our understanding of the underlying biochemical processes.

  Modern biology has become a trans-disciplinary science. The corresponding concepts derive from various disciplines, which not only include biochemistry, but also for instance developmental, evolutionary, and behavioral biology. As a result, biochemistry students are obliged to familiarise themselves with a variety of modern practical methods (e.g., optical and electronic microscopy, X-ray diffraction, mass spectrometry, and DNA sequencing) and with concepts of numerous disciplines. Moreover, life sciences benefit from of a flow of continuous technical innovation, which renders analytical tools increasingly sensitive and effective. The latest analytical instruments produce data at such speed and in such quantities that simply storing the information is becoming a problem. Bioinformatics tools provide a means of analysing large data set according to intelligent criteria. Modern biochemists have to familiarise themselves with these bioinformatics tools and learn how to put the large number of databases containing invaluable information to good use. Researchers no longer spend their time simply generating data, but also in analysing and comparing their own data with the ones from their peers.

  Academic and professional openings
  In a century which seems set to become a «century of nano-science and bioscience», trained biochemists face a vast array of career opportunities.

  Ideally followed by a Master of Science in Molecular Life and Health Sciences, option Biochemistry and Cell Biology, this bachelor's degree prepares the future graduates for work in the area of research and technological development focusing on biology, biochemistry or nano-technology primarily within a variety of academic or entrepreneurial, private settings (e.g., agro-chemistry, pharmacology, or biotechnology). This degree therefore opens the doors to a career in either the public or private work environment, be it in in a laboratory, or in an administrative position dealing for instance with patents, environmental protection, health care, or agriculture.

  Biochemists with a master's degree can continue to obtain a science doctorate in a university or specialised research institute. The professional openings for students who have successfully obtained their doctorate are similar, but with a higher degree of responsibility. For example, a Ph.D. followed by a post-doctorate training course is the ideal career path for a post as head of a research unit or as a university professor.

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