University of Bristol
Biochemistry is a fascinating discipline which allows you to explore the molecular basis of biological systems.
The knowledge gained from this programme will help equip you for modern medical diagnosis and therapeutics which has an increasingly strong molecular basis. Topics of study include the latest gene editing technologies for gene therapy, synthetic biology and personalised medicine.
The course combines lectures, workshops, small-group tutorials, reading of primary literature and research projects. You will be supported throughout by a personal tutor. You will have opportunities to improve communication skills through oral and written presentations, and to critically evaluate experimental data and the conclusions drawn from them – skills invaluable to your career as a clinician or clinician scientist.
What will I study?
Advanced Cell Biology covers topics such as: cell migration during wound healing and cancer; the mechanisms by which molecules are moved within and between cells; and techniques for imaging these behaviours.
Cellular Information covers topics such as damage and repair of DNA; regulation of gene expression; and the role of signalling pathways in cancer and diabetes.
The Dynamic Proteome examines how proteins are built, folded into intricate 3D shapes and assembled with other components to form molecular machinery that conducts the chemistry of life.
Advanced Options in Biochemistry may include options in neurobiochemistry, cancer, molecular basis of disease, synthetic biology, DNA-protein interactions, and protein science in therapy and technology.
Research projects
A highlight of the year is your practical project, during which you will conduct original research in one of our world-class research laboratories. In addition to a wide range of wet lab-based projects, we also offer computer-based projects for students who wish to gain experience in analysing the large bodies of genetic and proteomic data that are generated by modern high-throughput biological techniques.
Examples of student projects include:
insulin-like growth factors and cancer;
Red blood cells as drug delivery agents;
the VPS35 (L774M) mutation in Parkinson’s Disease;
Bioprospecting marine sponges for new antibiotics and novel enzymes
You will also write a literature review on a selected specialist topic.
Entry requirements
You can study a BSc after two or more years of study on your professional programme. Please refer to the admissions statement on our intercalation website for full guidance on how your application will be assessed.
Closing date
The closing date for applications will be advised on the University of Bristol Intercalated degrees website.