Chemistry and Biochemistry

Welcome! The UO Chemistry and Biochemistry program prioritizes high quality, supportive student classroom and research experiences that launch careers. Our collaborative and state-of-the-art research programs tackle real-world problems in topics ranging from life sciences to environmentally sustainable materials.

We prepare students for jobs in biotechnology, semiconductors, and many other areas in academic, industrial, and national laboratory settings. Undergraduates have exceptional opportunities to participate in research laboratories, gaining hands-on experience and making scientific discoveries.

Chemistry and Biochemistry Commencement Ceremony

Sunday, June 16, 2024      
4:00–6:00 p.m.      
Willamette Hall Paul Olum Atrium

More Commencement information


Chemistry and Biochemistry News

March 7, 2024
CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY - An assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Matthias Agne and his lab are using fundamental science—based on thermodynamics and microscopic physics—to improve solid-state battery developments. And his lab provides a space for students to tackle diverse technical and humanitarian problems.
February 9, 2024
CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY - Artwork depicting research being conducted in the Marina Guenza lab was selected for the cover of the Feb. 8 issue of The Journal of Physical Chemistry B.
February 9, 2024
CHEMISTRY AND BIOCHEMISTRY - University of Oregon researchers have developed a way to make iron metal for steel production without burning fossil fuels. This process could help decarbonize one of the largest and most emissions-intensive industries worldwide. The researchers reported their findings in a paper published Feb. 5 in the journal Joule.

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Chemistry and Biochemistry Events

Physical Chemistry Seminar Series
Mar21
Physical Chemistry Seminar Series Mar 21 Willamette Hall
Health Grad & Career Expo
Apr24
Health Grad & Career Expo Apr 24 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Chemistry and Biochemistry Commencement Ceremony - CAS
Jun16
Chemistry and Biochemistry Commencement Ceremony - CAS Jun 16 Willamette Hall

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What You Can Do with a Degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry

Studying chemistry and biochemistry develops skills in critical thinking, collaborative problem solving, and completing hands-on research. The interdisciplinary nature of our department opens opportunities for students post-graduation. Our alumni have secured careers in the following fields:

  • Atmospheric science
  • Environmental science
  • Forensic science
  • Geological science
  • Medicine and medicinal chemistry
  • Pharmacy and pharmacology
  • Neuroscience
  • Organic and inorganic industry
  • Private research labs and organizations
38
Research AND INSTRUCTIONAL FACULTY
298
CH AND BIC UNDERGRADUATE MAJORS
313
PHD AND MA STUDENTS
Biochemistry major Muhammad Khalifa

How Biochemistry Enhances Your Career

“When you get to a place like the University of Oregon, there is so much happening. It’s a large school where there is research going on. It doesn’t really matter what your discipline is. You don’t have to be interested in being a hard-science student who wants to be a doctor to start doing what you want to do now. You can get involved in research in just about every department at the UO.”

Muhammad Khalifa, Biochemistry major, '14

Our Degree Programs

We offer majors and minors in both chemistry and biochemistry. Both majors complete course work in chemistry and biochemistry along with course work in related fields. Undergraduate majors benefit from taking graduate courses in synthetic modeling, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, computational chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, and modern instrumental techniques. We also offer master's and PhD programs with rich opportunities for research.

Cathy Wong Laser Lab

Learn from Experts in the Field

Research at UO is organized around broad-based interdisciplinary and interdepartmental research institutes and centers. Students work with experts at institutes devoted to materials science, molecular biology, optics, and theoretical science.

Our faculty support students in furthering these advances taking place at the boundaries between traditionally-defined disciplines.

Students in a lab looking at bottle

Get Real-World Experience

UO research institutes, fellowships, internships, symposiums, and summer research programs all offer chemistry and biochemistry students many opportunities to put learning into action. Students can also earn credits while studying internationally.

Scholarships and Funding

The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department has a wide range of scholarships and fellowships available for undergraduates.

In the graduate program, most students are offered financial assistance through teaching fellowships. Doctoral students receive support in teaching and research assistantships.

Undergraduate Scholarships Graduate Funding

 

Academic Support

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers extensive academic support services for students. In addition to Tykeson Hall, there are peer advisors, a tutor list, TAs, and a dedicated librarian to support students with scientific research and writing.

Faculty advisors are available to help undergraduate and graduate students navigate their degree requirements and educational explorations.

Undergraduate Advising 
Support for Graduate Students


College of Arts and Sciences Events

Let's Talk Drop-In - Wednesdays 2-4PM @ BCC
Mar20
Let's Talk Drop-In - Wednesdays 2-4PM @ BCC Mar 20 Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center
Special Collections Research Fellows Speaker Series: Tp Coughlin, 2023 Le Guin Feminist Science Fiction Fellow
Mar21
Special Collections Research Fellows Speaker Series: Tp Coughlin, 2023 Le Guin Feminist Science Fiction Fellow Mar 21
¡Juntos! Latinx Support Group
Mar21
¡Juntos! Latinx Support Group Mar 21 Carson Hall, Ramey Room
Physical Chemistry Seminar Series
Mar21
Physical Chemistry Seminar Series Mar 21 Willamette Hall
Let's Talk Drop-In - Fridays 1-3PM @ CMAE/Zoom
Mar22
Let's Talk Drop-In - Fridays 1-3PM @ CMAE/Zoom Mar 22
International & Economic Development Careers - Millennium Challenge Corporation
Apr4
International & Economic Development Careers - Millennium Challenge Corporation Apr 4 440 Lill
EXTRA! EXTRA! DON'T KILL THE MESSENGER
Apr4
EXTRA! EXTRA! DON'T KILL THE MESSENGER Apr 4 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
"'Surplus' White Nationalism and GOP Climate Obstruction"
Apr4
"'Surplus' White Nationalism and GOP Climate Obstruction" Apr 4 Knight Library
Reading by Victor Lavalle
Apr4
Reading by Victor Lavalle Apr 4 Knight Library
EXTRA! EXTRA! DON'T KILL THE MESSENGER
Apr5
EXTRA! EXTRA! DON'T KILL THE MESSENGER Apr 5 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)

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