Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Prepare for Careers in Medicine, Pharmacy, and Biotech
Program Overview
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is an interdisciplinary field that explores life at the molecular level, where chemistry explains biological processes and biology drives scientific discovery. You will examine how cells function, how disease develops, and how molecular insights lead to medical and technological innovation.
Why study Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Bellarmine?
At Bellarmine, you begin engaging with biochemistry in your first year through a seminar built around disease-based case studies, an experience often reserved for upper-level students at other institutions. This early immersion strengthens critical thinking, laboratory skills, and scientific confidence from the start.
The curriculum builds on a rigorous foundation in chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics before advancing into upper-level biochemistry and molecular biology coursework. Electives in both biology and chemistry allow you to tailor your degree toward careers in medicine, pharmacy, biotechnology, research, or graduate study.
Research Starts in Your First Year
Engage in hands-on laboratory and faculty-guided research experiences that prepare you for competitive graduate programs and careers in the biomedical sciences.
Mentorship that Advances Your Goals
Work closely with experienced faculty mentors who support your path toward medical, pharmacy, public health, research, and other professional programs.
"I think that Bellarmine is a really good place to do really hard things, particularly our Biochemistry department. There was no time throughout my Bellarmine career that I felt like I'd been thrown into the deep end with nothing."
Joy Lefevers '26, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
“The faculty in the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology department became some of the most influential mentors in my career. Without their encouragement, I would not have pursued a Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Public Health or advanced pharmacy residency training. Bellarmine allowed me to reach heights I never dreamed possible, and it can do the same for you.”
Kevin Mercer ’13, Emergency Medicine Clinical Pharmacist
12:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
50+
Study Abroad Destinations
8–10
Weeks of Summer Research Opportunities
- Careers in the chemical and biomedical industries
- Graduate study in biochemistry, molecular biology, and biomedical sciences
- Professional programs in medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and other health sciences
- Research and academic pathways in the life sciences
What courses are required?
Core coursework includes biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and advanced biochemistry classes. Detailed requirements are available in the academic catalog.
Where can I view all degree requirements?
Do students complete internships?
Yes. Bellarmine guarantees every student the opportunity to complete an internship and develop a professional network.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. Visit the financial aid website for complete details.
Students conduct research in the Norton Health Science Center and participate in undergraduate summer research programs across the U.S., typically lasting 8–10 weeks.
The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Club hosts speakers, service projects, and supports student research presentations at professional meetings.
| Name | Title | |
|---|---|---|
| M. Saleem, Ph.D. | Associate Professor of Physics, Co-Chair of Division of Natural and Physical Sciences | msaleem@bellarmine.edu |
| Savita Chaurasia, Ph.D. | Professor of Chemistry | schaurasia@bellarmine.edu |
| Amanda Krzysiak, Ph.D. | Associate Professor of Chemistry | akrzysiak@bellarmine.edu |
| Mary Huff, Ph.D. | Professor of Biology | mhuff@bellarmine.edu |
| Patrick Holt, Ph.D. | Emeritus Professor | pholt@bellarmine.edu |
| Dave Robinson, Ph.D. | Emeritus Professor | drobinson2@bellarmine.edu |
Contact
M. Saleem, Ph.D.
Program Director
msaleem@bellarmine.edu
(502) 272-8436
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