Science - Biochemistry

Chairperson Dr. Mahmoud Khalil

Associate Professors Dr. Jamilah Borjac

Assistant Professors Dr. Ghada Khawaja, Dr. Tarek Houri, Dr. Rana El Hajj, Dr. Nawal El Hakawati

The mission of the biochemistry major is to provide a high quality, rigorous biochemistry curriculum that prepares undergraduate students for various aspects of biochemistry disciplines where knowledge and critical and analytical thinking skills are essential. The biochemistry curriculum also ensures that the students possess scientific skills to be successful in alternative career options in biochemistry and related disciplines.

The biochemistry major curriculum:

1. Provides undergraduate students with knowledge and understanding of biochemical concepts and principles.
2. Prepares students to understand the biochemistry pathways and processes in health, nutrition and agriculture.
3. Includes laboratory work to help students to carry out and interpret laboratory work in biochemistry.
4. Provides students with the latest biochemical techniques used in both basic and applied areas of biochemistry and related disciplines such as molecular biology.
5. Promotes the capacity for life-long learning.
6. Prepares the students for many career options in biochemistry and related disciplines.
7. Requires that the student conduct a research project in biochemistry followed by oral and written presentation of this project.
   

a- Knowledge and Understanding:

1. Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of fundamental biochemical reactions and processes in living organisms (such as human, animals, plants and microorganisms).
2. Understand the mechanisms of diseases incidence and the strategies to treat human diseases at the molecular and cellular levels.
3. Master aspects of the modern disciplines of biochemistry at the molecular, cellular and organism levels.
4. Understand and practice various experimental techniques of biochemistry.
5. Merging knowledge of biochemistry and related disciplines such as molecular biology, biotechnology and biomedical science.
6. Identify and use of biochemical databases and literature sources.

b- Intellectual Abilities:

1. Demonstrate broad knowledge and understanding of various biochemical aspects and pathways.
2. Demonstrate the ability to carry out experiments, analyze the obtained data and draw reasonable conclusions or interpretations.
3. Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate and utilize scientific literature.
4. Demonstrate skills and expertise in biochemistry for various career opportunities.
5. Use critical thinking and principles of logic to evaluate problems in biochemistry disciplines.
6. The ability to pursue further education as an independent life-long professional learning.

c- Professional and Practical Competencies:

1. Obtain the ability to design experimental biochemical and molecular approaches and strategies to solve biochemical problems.
2. Analyze and evaluate experimental results and observations clearly and draw scientific conclusions.
3. Operate and practice basics laboratory instrumentations efficiently.

d- General and Transferable Skills:

1. Communicate scientific information clearly and precisely, both orally and in writing.
2. Work effectively in a professional or laboratory setting.
3. Recognize and respond to the need of life-long learning.
4. Can function effectively independently or as member of a team.
   

To obtain the Bachelor Degree in Biochemistry, students must successfully complete a total of 97 credit hours + IC3, where the standard duration of study is 6 semesters. There is one general semester of study for the students of the Biochemistry Program.

• Post-Graduate studies in biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology, cosmetic science and related life science programs in addition to chemistry program.
• Employment in the fields of forensic science, food science, agricultural research, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
• Technical research positions.
• Clinical laboratory technicians.
• Teaching biology
• Admission to biomedical schools.

5 credits are selected from the University Mandatory courses list.

At least one course from social sciences and one course from humanities should be selected among the university elective courses.

** A total of 6 credits is required as faculty electives.

Students can enroll in any course offered by the Faculty of Science.

The program utilizes a number of well-equipped laboratories for practical work and research. The Laboratories serving the program are:

1. Biology Laboratory
2. Biology Research Laboratory
3. Microbiology Laboratory
4. Biochemistry Laboratory
5. Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Specialized Laboratory
6. Microbiology Specialized Laboratory
7. Tissue Culture Laboratory
8. Animal House Facility (Breeding Room)
9. Animal House Facility (for Post Graduate Students)