Why Study Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Trinity?

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology explores how genes, proteins, and cellular processes shape living organisms. Students learn to connect concepts from biology and chemistry to answer questions about health, disease, biotechnology, and the natural world.

The Trinity Advantage

Trinity combines the resources of a research-active science program with the personal attention of a liberal arts university, giving students opportunities to engage deeply with scientific discovery.

Integrate Biology and Chemistry

Study living systems through coursework that bridges molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and chemistry. Conduct research in biology, chemistry, neuroscience and other departments. Attend regional and national meetings to present your research.

Nationally Recognized Curriculum

As an ASBMB-recognized program, the major aligns with national standards while connecting students to professional resources and scientific communities.

Research-Ready Graduates

Develop the laboratory, analytical, and problem-solving skills needed for graduate study, medicine, biotechnology, and scientific research.

What You'll Study

Build a foundation in biology and chemistry while exploring the molecular processes that regulate living organisms.

Scientific Skills You'll Develop

  • Experimental design and laboratory techniques
  • Data analysis and interpretation
  • Scientific writing and communication
  • Critical evaluation of biological research

Interdisciplinary Curriculum

Students complete courses in biochemistry, molecular biology, and advanced chemistry, with additional study in areas such as genetics, cell biology, physical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. Upper-division coursework emphasizes protein structure and function, metabolism, gene regulation, and laboratory-based investigation, preparing students for advanced research, graduate study, and careers in the life sciences.

View major requirements

Detailed course requirements, sequencing, and policies are outlined in the official Courses of Study Bulletin. 

Meet Your Faculty Mentors

Get to know the faculty in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology who are here to inspire, challenge, and support you every step of the way.

Hunsicker-Wang-Laura.jpg

Laura Hunsicker-Wang, Ph.D.

Professor, Co-Director BCMB

bethany-strunk.jpg

Bethany Strunk, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Co-Director BCMB

Beaudoin-Gerard.jpg

Gerard M. J. Beaudoin, III, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

mia-borden.jpeg

Meredith (Mia) Borden, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Kelvin%20Cheng.jpg

Kwan Cheng, Ph.D.

Williams Endowed Professor in Interdisciplinary Physics

Cooley-Christina.jpg

Christina Cooley, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Marie_El_Arba.jpg

Marie El Arba Chavez, Ph.D.

Lecturer

luis-giavedoni

Luis Giavedoni, Ph.D.

Brackenridge Distinguished Professor

Kyralyssa%20Sanchez.jpg

Kyralyssa Hauger-Sanchez, Ph.D.

Senior Lecturer

Frank%20Healy.jpg

Frank Healy, Ph.D.

Professor

hibbs.jpg

Matthew Hibbs, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Johnson-Michele.jpg

Michele Johnson, Ph.D.

Professor

King-Jonathan.jpg

Jonathan King, Ph.D.

Professor

lyons-kelly.jpg

Kelly Lyons, Ph.D.

Professor

Corina-Maeder.jpg

Corina Maeder, Ph.D.

Associate Professor & Chemistry Chair

murphy.jpg

Troy Murphy, Ph.D.

Professor

graham-piburn.jpg

Graham Piburn, Ph.D.

Lecturer

rebeccarapf.jpeg

Rebecca Rapf, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Ribble-David.jpg

David Ribble, Ph.D.

Dean: D. R. Semmes School of Science, Professor

shearer.jpg

Jason Shearer, Ph.D.

Semmes Distinguished Professor of Chemistry

Trinity University Headshot Placeholder

James (Jim) Shinkle, Ph.D.

Professor

Trinity University Headshot Placeholder

Brian Teague, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Kristy-Trevino--20240815-07

Kristy Trevino, Ph.D.

Lecturer

Adam Urbach-20251103

Adam Urbach, Ph.D.

Semmes School of Science Distinguished Professor of Chemistry

Graduate Careers, Advanced Study

Graduates pursue careers and advanced study across healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, biomedical research, and education, applying their understanding of biological systems and molecular science to complex real-world challenges.

Career Areas

  • Biomedical Research
  • Biotechnology
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Medicine and Health Professions
  • Education
  • Scientific Industry

Notable Companies That Have Hired Trinity Graduates

  • Dow Chemical Company
  • Pfizer
  • Eli Lilly and Company
  • Merck

Graduate Schools or Programs

  • California Institute of Technology
  • Duke University
  • Harvard University
  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Northwestern University
  • Scripps Research Institute
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of Chicago
  • University of Illinois
  • University of Minnesota
Three students sitting in front of a window listen attentively to a presentation while taking notes in their Cognitive Development course.

Advising and Next Steps

Students interested in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major should:

Meet with an academic adviser to see how the major fits your degree plan, explore introductory courses, and review the course catalog for detailed requirements. For advising questions, contact the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.