Biological Chemistry

Are you into biology and chemistry? Want to learn more about the chemical processes going on in cells? As a biological chemistry major you’ll dive deep into research through classes, labs, and independent projects to discover answers and even more questions. You’ll examine the structure and function of nucleic acids, lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates and their interactions with cells. You’ll learn research techniques and methods of inquiry specific to the interrelated topics at the heart of biological chemistry with faculty mentors, experts in biology and chemistry, at your side. Whether you’re off to graduate school, medical school, or straight to a career in health sciences, research, or education, you’ll be thoroughly prepared.

INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDY

Ask questions and seek answers in a collaborative program.

Through the study of biological chemistry at Grinnell, you’ll discover a unique, multifaceted, and interdisciplinary program that fosters inquiry and rewards curiosity. You’ll search for answers and discover more questions in courses developed through close collaboration among faculty in biology and chemistry, ensuring your access to a broad range of knowledge.
CAREER PREPARATION

Gain knowledge needed for a wide range of professions or postgraduate study.

You’ll find that majoring in biological chemistry prepares you for your future, whatever you have in mind. Whether you’re off to graduate school or medical school; headed straight to a career in health sciences, research, or education; or exploring other fields, you’ll be thoroughly prepared for success. You’ll join alumni who have successful careers as physicians and researchers, or in law, education, business, biotech, and numerous other fields.
HANDS-ON EDUCATION

Learn science by doing science.

You’ll put classroom knowledge into action as you dive deep into research through classes, labs, and independent projects. You’ll learn research techniques and hone your skills in a significant laboratory component that will put you in the driver’s seat, directing and conducting experiments that you’ve designed.

Collaborating on Research

Ashley Kang ’19 came to Grinnell intending to major in biology, but classes she took in her second year unlocked an interest in chemistry as well. “I figured biological chemistry would give me the best of both worlds,” she says.

Passionate About Bio Chem

Phillip An ’19 loves biological chemistry. “We have this thing called DNA, this chain of instructions made of carbons and nitrogens and hydrogens, that quite frankly, affects nearly every aspect of ourselves. Isn’t that crazy?”

Bio Chem + English = Powerful Double Major

Emily Mesev ’15, molecular biology Ph.D. student at Princeton University, says that when she first visited Grinnell, “it felt like the best place for me.”

Collin Kramer works with younger students

Well Prepared for Med School with Space for Other Interests

Collin Kramer ’15, a third-year medical student at the University of Iowa, came to Grinnell knowing that he wanted to study medicine. Thanks to the small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and abundant research opportunities offered by Grinnell’s biological chemistry program, Kramer graduated feeling well-prepared for medical school.

Motivated by Research Opportunities

Bao Ying Chen ’14, biomedical physics graduate student at UCLA, was drawn to Grinnell by its commitment to diversity, the financial resources offered to students, and the flexibility of its individually advised curriculum. “Without Grinnell’s help, I do not think I would have been able to pursue a higher education degree,” says Chen, a first-generation college student.

Tom Cech ’70

1989 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for the discovery of the catalytic properties of RNA

When Tom Cech ’70 enrolled as a student at Grinnell College, he made discoveries — many of them about himself — that would shape his entire life.

Cech realized that as much as he liked chemistry, his interests did not begin and end there. He also loved exploring the ways that the humanities, social sciences, and sciences converge and intersect.

Learn More About Tom Cech

Three students examine a beam of light being projected through a series of circular lenses.

Grinnell Science Project Means Family

On the thirtieth anniversary of the Grinnell Science Project, the Student Assistants of GSP reflect on community, confidence, and becoming ambassadors to their peers.

A Molecular Powerhouse and Trailblazer: Leslie Gregg-Jolly Enters Senior Faculty Status

After 29 years teaching in the Grinnell biology department, Professor Leslie Gregg-Jolly is preparing to enter senior faculty status. She’s worn many hats in her time at Grinnell, not only teaching and mentoring but serving as the College’s chief diversity officer, associate dean of the College, and as chair of the Departments of Biology and Biological Chemistry.

A student wearing a lab coat, exam gloves and a mask looks through a microscope.

Delving Deeper: Science Faculty Receive Half a Million Dollars from the National Science Foundation to Expand Microscopy Work

Clark Lindgren, Keisuke Hasegawa, Pascal Lafontant, Vida Praitis, Josh Sandquist, and Mark Levandowski were awarded the NSF Major Research Instrumentation grant to purchase a laser scanning confocal microscope, a breakthrough in the research capabilities of faculty and students throughout the sciences at Grinnell.