Bachelor of Science in Chemical Biology

Chemical biologists are at the forefront of many of the latest advancements in science today. Their work literally touches every aspect of our lives. They have enhanced the flavor of fast-food burgers and microwave popcorn, analyzed DNA traces found during crime scene investigations, created genetically altered corn, cloned animals, and formulated insulin and other life-saving medicines. If Jurassic Park had been a reality and not fiction, a chemical biologist would have made Tyrannosaurus Rex roam the earth once again. There is an increasing need for scientists and technicians who are well versed in both biology and chemistry. This dual knowledge — chemical biology — constitutes an emerging discipline that lies at the very core of the biotechnology industry.

Lawrence Tech’s Bachelor of Science in chemical biology has been developed in response to the growing demand for skilled scientists in the biomedical and biotechnology field.  It is designed to prepare students to enter this field with a strong background in both disciplines and a full appreciation of their interdependence. The state of Michigan is devoting considerable resources to the development of a biotechnology infrastructure in Michigan. MichBio, a consortium of about 100 companies and educational institutions, has been established to facilitate the growth of biotechnology opportunities in Michigan. Lawrence Tech is an integral part of this effort and a member of MichBio.

While specialized training in chemical biology has been available at the graduate level for several decades, the chemical biology undergraduate program at Lawrence Tech is the first in the Midwest and one of only a handful in the United States. With the completion of several genome-sequencing projects, a new era of biology has emerged in which biomedical research and DNA and drug screening is routinely conducted at a scale that is several orders of magnitude larger than before. This trend has dramatically increased the demand for scientists who are well versed in both chemistry and biology. Lawrence Tech’s Bachelor of Science in chemical biology has been created to meet this urgent need.

Questions?

For additional information, contact either Dr. Anthony Sky at 248-204-3603 or Dr. William Madden at 248-204-3606, or send e-mail to nschair@ltu.edu.