Biochemistry | School of Molecular & Cellular Biology

Biochemists investigate the processes in living systems from a molecular perspective. We lead innovative research programs in chemical biology, nucleic acids biochemistry, molecular virology, membrane biochemistry, genomics, microbial physiology, signal transduction & more. We provide tools to develop the next generation of medicine.

Graduates of our undergraduate and PhD programs have become leaders in medicine, pharmacology, agriculture, nutrition, microbiology, cell biology, food technology, pollution control, and biotechnology.

Biochemistry News

Dr. Susan Martinis to deliver 2025 School of MCB convocation address

The School of Molecular & Cellular Biology is honored to announce that Dr. Susan Martinis will deliver the convocation address at its 2025 ceremony.The School...

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Congratulations to 2024 College of LAS Alumni Award Honoree Dr. Michelle Barton

Dr. Michelle (Shelley) Barton’s remarkable career in cancer research, leadership, and graduate education is a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to scientific advancement. As a researcher, she played a pivotal role in the discovery of TRIM24, a protein found in...

From academia to industry: Dr. Ben Warlick's career journey and advice for students

Dr. Ben Warlick, a biochemistry alumnus from the Class of 2013, has built a well-rounded career in industry. We sat down with Warlick while he was on campus recently to share his advice with the School of MCB community on career development, transitioning from academia to...

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To overcome antibiotic resistance, new research says to let it flow

Some notoriously difficult to treat infections may not be as resistant to antibiotics as has been thought, according to new research using a microfluidic device that more closely duplicates the fluid flow found in the body than standard cultures. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign...

Genome map of yerba mate reveals insights into caffeine biosynthesis, paves way for new varieties

A recent biochemistry PhD graduate was part of the team of researchers to generate the first genome assembly of Yerba mate, a plant species and herbal tea native to South America. The resulting structural data, published in eLife, provides...

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Fellowship recipient Dr. Haneui Bae explores liver dysfunctions in Myotonic Dystrophy

Shaped by a lifelong curiosity about the brain and a drive to make a tangible impact in medicine, Dr. Haneui Bae investigates the mechanisms and implications of liver dysfunctions in myotonic dystrophy. Recently, she received a two-year fellowship from the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation to support...