About Biochemistry with Cell Biology, BA (Hons) - at Trinity College Dublin
What is biochemistry with cell biology?Cells form the smallest organizational unit of life, while biochemistry is the study of the chemical basis of life. Consequently, biochemistry with cell biology focuses on the study of the chemical basis of the living cell. This subject area is also an integral part of medicine, as it helps us to understand the mechanics of how disease and disorders occur. It is also an essential component ofbiotechnology, where processes for the production of foods and fuels, and enzymes or other proteins are developed.
What will you study?The courses in the Junior Sophister (third) year provide a broad knowlege and understanding of the fundamentals of biochemistry and cell biology - from the behaviour of simple cells to the complex development and organization of the human being. Topics include:
- Bioenergetics
- Membrane function
- Cellular Regulation
- Immunology
- Protein chemistry
- Enzyme catalysis
- Photosynthesis
- Eukaryotic gene structure.
A research project project in the area of either biochemistry or cell biology forms an essential part of the Senior Sophister (fourth) year. Examples of research areas from which topics may be chosen include the cell cycle & cell division, cytoskeleton, developmental biology, cancer, neurobiology, molecular and cellular parasitology, viral evasion mechanisms, cell signaling, metabolism, the immune system and control of cell death.
Career opportunitiesThis course equips you to work in all major aspects of biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology. You may decide to continue your studies at the postgraduate level and subsequently take up a career in industrial, medical or academic research. Alternatively, you will be qualified to work in hospitals and commercial laboratories dealing with biotechnology, food science, pharmaceuticals or diagnostics. Recent graduates have also opted for careers in teaching, information systems, communications and management, and have even crossed over into areas such as accountancy, law and merchant banking, where there is a demand for the skills developed in the biological and chemical sciences.
