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 experiential learning experience and making scientific discoveries.
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
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.
Get a Materials Science Degree
Want to help develop the next generation of sustainable materials? Or land a high-demand job in the semiconductor industry? Oregon's first materials science and technology undergrad major offers an interdisciplinary grounding in both the chemistry and physics of materials science.
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.
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.