One of the strengths of the Biochemistry major is that all our majors conduct research with world-class faculty engaged in biomedical research in any department in the School of Medicine or local affiliated hospitals. Our students benefit from our innovative approach of active learning in cutting-edge research programs funded by agencies such as the National Science Foundation or the National Institutes of Health, in place of completing traditional class-based lab courses.
Our students have opportunities to carry out research in any of more than 200 biomedical research labs. The BSTP faculty list is one way to identify potential research mentors. Biochemistry majors should check with their advisors for help in choosing a lab. If you have not declared a Biochemistry major, contact Dr. David Samols to check if a lab is a good fit.
New for 2022-2023: freshmen may apply for the Research Honors track in Biochemistry.
Students start volunteering in research labs as early as freshman year, and all students are expected to be engaged in research for credit (BIOC 391) by their junior year. By starting research early, students maximize the opportunities at CWRU, Ohio's top research university, and our affiliated hospitals. Early engagement also increases a student's chance of co-authoring their findings in a scientific publication, which in turn can help with graduate school and medical school admission.
Students who perform research for credit usually sign up for 3 credit hours of Biochemistry Research (BIOC 391) and spend 10 hours per week doing hands-on experimental research. Many students also perform full-time research during the summer between their junior and senior years. Summer students can receive a stipend and have the opportunity to apply for a number of research fellowships, including the Department of Biochemistry's Hanson Summer Research Scholar Program or CWRU's SOURCE program.