2027
The University of New Mexico Biochemistry Undergraduate Student Handbook
Key Resources & Contacts
{{page}}
{{page}} | Biochemistry Undergraduate Student Handbook 2026
Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Undergraduate Program UNM Catalog Pathfinder Student Handbook Undergraduate Advising Honors Research Program Advisor: Dr. Curt Hines Director of the Biochemistry Undergraduate Program Dr. Laura de Lorenzo
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
Welcome from Chair & Undergraduate Program Director
4
Mission, Values, Values, & Commitment to Diversity
6
Why UNM Biochemistry?
7
Undergraduate Degree Programs in Biochemistry
8
Departmental Honors in Biochemistry
14
Advising, Mentoring, and Career Development
15
Student Organizations & Engagement
16
Academic Policies & Expectations
18
Succeeding as a Biochemistry Major
Visual Advising Roadmap: First Year to Graduation
19
Career Outcomes & Alumni Pathways
Welcome to the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Message from the Chair Karlett J. Parra, Ph.D., M.B.A Chair and Professor Welcome to the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the School of Medicine at the University of New Mexico. Our department is dedicated to advancing knowledge at the molecular level of life through innovative research, rigorous education, and meaningful service. Our faculty’s research provides a strong scientific foundation that enriches undergraduate education, spanning areas such as metabolism, disease mechanisms, genomics, metabolomics, and cellular regulation. This work advances our understanding of conditions including cancer, aging, obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, and emerging health concerns such as those linked to microplastics. Undergraduate students in our department benefit from research-informed teaching that emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving. We believe that science education is most powerful when students actively engage with the questions, tools, and ethical responsibilities that define modern biochemistry. We are equally committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive academic environment. Diversity of background and perspective strengthens scientific discovery and learning, and we strive to ensure that all students feel valued and supported. We are pleased to welcome you to our department and look forward to your growth as a scientist and scholar. Established in 1984, our Undergraduate Biochemistry Program awards an average of 70 bachelor’s degrees each year, preparing graduates to pursue a wide range of successful career pathways. The program is highly regarded according to national metrics and has been fully accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) since 2015. This accreditation reflects a rigorous, outcomes-based evaluation process that recognizes excellence in B.S. and B.A. degree programs in biochemistry, molecular biology, and related disciplines. Message from the Undergraduate Biochemistry Program Director Laura de Lorenzo, Ph.D. Director, Undergraduate Biochemistry Program & Senior Lecturer III Welcome to the UNM Undergraduate Biochemistry Program. As Program Director, my primary goal is to support your academic success and professional development from your first biochemistry course through graduation and beyond. Our program emphasizes mentoring, advising, and experiential learning. Students are encouraged to engage in research, participate in course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), seek faculty mentorship, and explore career pathways in science, healthcare, industry, and education. We recognize that each student’s journey is unique, and we are committed to helping you design a path that aligns with your goals and interests. This Undergraduate Student Handbook serves as a roadmap and reference throughout your time in the program. I encourage you to use it actively and to reach out to advisors, mentors, or program leadership whenever questions arise. We are excited to work with you and support your success!
Mission, Vision, Values, and Commitment to Diversity
Core Values
UNM Indigenous People's Land and Territory Acknowledgment
Choosing a major is an important decision. The Biochemistry Program at the University of New Mexico offers a distinctive undergraduate experience that combines rigorous scientific training with personalized mentoring and real-world impact. The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (BMB) integrates foundational biochemical principles with cutting-edge biochemistry, cellular, molecular and genomic approaches to prepare students for diverse scientific and professional careers. As a Carnegie R1 research university, UNM provides undergraduates with early and meaningful exposure to scientific discovery. Biochemistry students learn from faculty who are active researchers and have opportunities to engage in both course-based and independent research. The UNM Biochemistry Porgram is accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) ensuring that graduates are well prepared for graduate school, professional programs, and scientific careers. Mentoring is a defining feature of the program. Through dedicated advising, structured mentoring courses, faculty research mentorship, and peer support, students receive individualized guidance throughout their academic journey. UNM Biochemistry graduates pursue careers in medicine, research, biotechnology, education, and beyond. Emphasis on professional skills—communication, critical thinking, and ethical practice—prepares students to succeed in a wide range of fields. UNM’s mission as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and leader in serving diverse populations is reflected in the Biochemistry Program’s inclusive culture and strong support systems. Students from all backgrounds are encouraged and empowered to thrive.
Vision
Values Academic Excellence Inclusion & Equity Integrity Innovation Community
Founded in 1889, the University of New Mexico sits on the traditional homelands of the Pueblo of Sandia. The original peoples of New Mexico — Pueblo, Navajo, and Apache — since time immemorial, have deep connections to the land and have made significant contributions to the broader community statewide. We honor the land itself and those who remain stewards of this land throughout the generations and also acknowledge our committed relationship to Indigenous peoples. We gratefully recognize our history.
The mission of the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology is to advance understanding of the biochemical and molecular basis of life and disease through excellence in education, research, and training. The department is committed to undergraduate, graduate, medical, and postgraduate education; interdisciplinary and translational research; and the preparation of future scientists and educators.
Description Commitment to high-quality teaching, learning, and scholarship A welcoming and supportive environment for all Ethical conduct in science and education Evidence-based and research-driven pedagogy Collaboration among students, faculty, and staff
The vision of the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology is to be a nationally recognized, innovative, and inclusive department that makes a meaningful impact through education, research, and community engagement.
Mission
Why Choose UNM Biochemistry?
Third Year
The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Program provides a strong foundation in chemistry, biology, mathematics, and physics, followed by advanced coursework in biochemistry and molecular biology. The program offers Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees in Biochemistry. The program Program Goals Graduates of the Biochemistry Program will: Demonstrate mastery of core biochemical concepts. Apply critical thinking and hypothesis-driven scientific inquiry. Communicate scientific information effectively in written and oral formats. Understand and uphold ethical standards in science. Engage in self-reflection and lifelong learning. Student Learning Outcomes Upon completion of the program, students will be able to: Apply knowledge of metabolism, structure–function relationships, information flow, homeostasis, and evolution. Design experiments, analyze data, and interpret results. Communicate biochemical concepts to diverse audiences. Demonstrate integrity and objectivity in scientific practice. Develop academic and career plans with mentor guidance.
**Students may substitute CHEM 2310C with STAT 345 or MATH 1350 (3-credits) and take it in addition to one of the following Biochemistry courses: BIOC 2110, BIOC 499, or BIOC 400 (1-credit courses). For detailed course descriptions, see the section below.
Semester 1- Fall
Credits
Semester 2- Spring
MATH 1430 (Applications of Calculus I OR MATH 1512 (Calculus I)
3 OR 4
MATH 1440 (Applications of Calculus II OR MATH 1522 (Calculus II)
CHEM 1215 (General Chemistry I for STEM majors)
CHEM 1225 (General Chemistry II for STEM majors
CHEM 1215L (General Chemistry I for STEM majors- Laboratory)
1
CHEM 1225L (General Chemistry II for STEM majors- Laboratory)
Semester 3- Fall
Semester 4- Spring
CHEM 301 (Organic Chemistry I)
CHEM 302 (Organic Chemistry II)
CHEM 303L (Organic Chemistry I Laboratory
CHEM 304L (Organic Chemistry II Laboratory)
BIOL 301C (Molecular and Cell Biology, Lecture & Laboratory)
BIOL 302C (Genes to Genomes, Lecture & Laboratory)
PHYS 1230 (Algebra-based Physics I) OR PHYS 1310 (Calculus-based Physics I)
PHYS 1240 (Algebra-based Physics II) OR PHYS 1320 (Calculus-based Physics II)
PHYS 1230L (Algebra-based Physics I Laboratory) OR PHYS 1310L (Calculus-based Physics Laboratory)
PHYS 1240L (Algebra-based Physics II Laboratory OR PHYS1320L (Calculus-based Physics Laboratory)
MATH 2531 (Calculus III) Calculus- based physics and physical chemistry track only
CHEM 2310C (Quantitative Analysis Lecture & Laboratory)**
Degree Structure Total credits required for the B.S. degree: 120 Core Coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics, and biochemistry Two curricular tracks: Algebra-based or Calculus-based physics/chemistry Upper-division biochemistry electives and laboratory training
Undergraduate Degree Program in Biochemistry
Semester 5- Fall
Semester 6- Spring
BIOC 445 (Intensive Introductory Biochemistry I
BIOC 446 (Intensive Introductory Biochemistry II)
CHEM 315 (Introductory Physical Chemistry) OR CHEM 311 (Physical Chemistry I)
CHEM 312 (Physical Chemistry II) Calculus- based physics and physical chemistry track only
First Year
Second Year
The list below represents the suggested sequence of courses required for the Biochemistry major and for completion of the Bachelor of Science degree in 4 years. (Students may take courses in an altered order.)
Undergraduate Degree Requirements
Courses required for the B.S. in Biochemistry degree in each track (“algebra-based” and “calculus-based”) _____________________________________________________________________________________ UNM’s required biochemistry curriculum includes courses in math, physics, and physical chemistry, although students can choose from two tracks, the “algebra-based” track or the “calculus-based” track. While both tracks require two semesters of calculus, the calculus-based track involves a calculus-rich physics sequence and two semesters of physical chemistry, which requires an additional, third semester of calculus (see below). We encourage students interested in chemistry, biochemical engineering, or biophysics careers to consider the calculus-based track.
Mandatory Courses for the B.S. in Biochemistry Degree _____________________________________________________________________________________ The following courses are mandatory for the B.S. in Biochemistry (including all science and math courses required for the Biochemistry degree). For a visual course map, see Appendix I at the end of this student handbook.
*Please note that by NM state law, lower division courses must comply with statewide numbering conventions to allow for easier course transfer between institutions. Therefore, 100- and 200-level courses usually contain 4 digits. In contrast, 300- and 400-level courses follow UNM-specific conventions and contain only 3 digits. We’ve listed our courses by their starting numeral, with lower division courses starting with “1” listed first. **Indicates courses offered for our Biochemistry Program.
Semester 7 (or 8)- Fall
Semester 8 (or 7)- Spring
BIOC 448L (Biochemical Methods
Biochemistry upper division elective, i.e. BIOC 495-02 (electives listed below)
Biochemistry Upper Division Elective, i.e. BIOC 495-01 or BIOC 463 (electives listed below)
Biochemistry upper division elective, i.e. BIOC 495-03 or BIOC 464 (electives listed below)
BIOC 497 (Senior Honors Research) Only for students pursuing Biochemistry Departmental Honors Research
BIOC 498 (Senior Honors Research) Only for students pursuing Biochemistry Departmental Honors Research
{{page}} | TITLE HERE
Algebra track(required courses)
Course number and course title
PHYS 1230: Algebra-Based Physics I- Algebra-based treatment of Newtonian mechanics. Topics include kinematics & dynamics in one & two dimensions, conservation of energy & momentum, rotational motion, equilibrium, and fluids.
PHYS 1230L: Algebra-Based Physics I Lab- Series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 1230.
PHYS 1240: Algebra-Based Physics II- Second half of a two-semester algebra-based introduction to physics. This course covers electricity, magnetism, and optics.
PHYS 1240L: Algebra-Based Physics II Lab- Series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 1240.
MATH 1430: Applications of Calculus I- An algebraic and graphical study of derivatives and integrals, with an emphasis on applications to business, social science, economics, and the sciences.
MATH 1440: Applications of Calculus II- Topics in this course include functions of several variables, techniques of integration, an introduction to basic differential equations, and other applications.
CHEM 315: Introductory Physical Chemistry- Fundamentals of physical chemistry with primary emphasis upon biological and biochemical applications.
CHEM 303L: Organic Chemistry I Lab- Teaches basic organic chemistry lab techniques, including separations, thin-layer chromatography, gas chromatography, and organic synthesis apparatus set up.
CHEM 304L: Organic Chemistry II Lab- Teaches synthesis of organic compounds using reactions learned in CHEM 302 and spectroscopic characterization of the products.
BIOC 445: Introductory Biochemistry I**- Intensive introduction to the physical and chemical properties of proteins and enzymes, enzyme catalysis, signal transduction, and the structure, synthesis, and processing of nucleic acids.
BIOC 446: Introductory Biochemistry II**- Intensive introduction to intermediary metabolism and hormonal control of catabolic and anabolic pathways.
BIOC 448L: Biochemical Methods**- Laboratory course uses a semester-long research project to introduce biochemical and molecular biology techniques, including cloning, PCR, purification & analysis of nucleic acids & proteins, bioinformatics, and enzyme kinetics. Students generate hypotheses, gather & analyze data, and present their results. Only for B.S. Can use as internal elective for B.A.
CHEM 1215: General Chemistry I- Introduction to general chemistry for students enrolled in science, engineering, and certain pre-professional programs. Concepts include mole, concentration, heat, atomic and molecular structure, periodicity, bonding, physical states, stoichiometry, and reactions.
CHEM 1215L: General Chemistry I Lab- Laboratory course designed to complement the theory and concepts presented in lecture. Introduces students to techniques for obtaining and analyzing experimental observations pertaining to chemistry.
CHEM 1225: General Chemistry II- Continuation of general chemistry for students enrolled in science, engineering, and certain pre-professional programs. Concepts include theoretical and quantitative coverage of solutions, kinetics, chemical equilibria, acids/bases, entropy and free energy, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry.
CHEM 1225L: General Chemistry II Lab- Laboratory course designed to complement the theory and concepts presented in lectures. Experiments will illustrate the fundamental principles and techniques of chemistry.
BIOL 301C: Molecular and Cell Biology, Lecture & Laboratory- This ourse focuses on the principles of structure and function of living things at he molecular, cellular, and organismic levels. Major topics include the scientific process, chemistry & organization of cells, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, cell division, DNA replication, transcription, and translation.
CHEM 2310C: Quantitative Analysis w/Lab- Introduces chemical characterization & data interpretation with an emphasis on solution equilibria & electrochemistry. Students will obtain reproducible quantitative lab data using classical & simple instrumental methods as well as analyze & interpret lab data using statistical & validation approaches.
BIOL 302C: Genes to Genomes, Lecture & Laboratory- Mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian genetics, chromosomes and inheritance, molecular basis of inheritance, genes to proteins, genetic models (viruses and bacteria), eukaryotic genomes, genetics basis of development, and overview of genomes.
CHEM 301: Organic Chemistry I- Chemistry of the compounds of carbon.
CHEM 302: Organic Chemistry II- Continuation of CHEM 301
Fourth Year
Summary of the Biochemistry Core Courses ____________________________________________________________________________________ The table below summarizes the BMB courses and indicates the total number of credit hours, the course schedule, and the course directors in the Biochemistry Program. All Biochemistry courses and electives are offered on a fall and/or spring semester (16 weeks or 12 weeks- where noted) schedule.
Calculus track(required courses)
PHYS 1310: Calculus-Based Physics I- Calculus-level treatment of classical mechanics and waves, which is concerned with the physical motion concepts, forces, energy concepts, momentum, rotational motion, angular momentum, gravity, and static equilibrium.
PHYS 1310L: Calculus-Based Physics I Lab- Series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in PHYS 1310.
PHYS 1320: Calculus-Based Physics II- Calculus-level treatment of classical electricity and magnetism.
*Biochemical Methods (BIOC 448L) is required for the B.S. degree in Biochemistry and optional for the B.A. degree. BIOC courses include a total of 24-39 credit hours with a maximum of 42 credits. The minimum number of credit hours required for a B.S. degree in Biochemistry in 120.
Our biochemistry students must also complete at least three upper division biochemistry electives as a requirement of the major. Of these three electives, at least two must come from our internal Biochemistry curriculum, listed below. Note that none of these BIOC electives contain a laboratory component. Students may choose to use an external, non-BIOC course to fill one of their upper division elective slots, provided it contains an appropriate level of biochemistry and/or molecular biology content, as determined by a review of the course syllabus. A list of approved external electives can be found in our website BIOC 451: Physical Biochemistry- Quantitative physical chemical approach to analyzing macromolecular structure and function. Topics discussed include electrophoretic and hydrodynamic methods, mass spectrometry, optical and vibrational spectroscopic methods, NMR, diffraction methods, and computational techniques. BIOC 463: Biochemistry of Disease I- Course is broken into multiple week-long modules, each designed to advance understanding of biochemistry and cell & molecular biology in the context of human health and disease. BIOC 464: Biochemistry of Disease II- Course is broken into multiple week-long modules, each designed to advance understanding of biochemistry and cell & molecular biology in the context of human health and disease. BIOC 495-001: Topics in Biochemistry (Proteins Evolution & Metabolites Discovering)- This course expands upon knowledge of enzymes and their structure-function relationships in biochemistry. It investigates the evolution of complex organisms starting at accretion and the necessary steps to go from abiotic to biotic life, as well as the importance of secondary metabolic pathways as selective factors and in healthcare. BIOC 495-002: Topics in Biochemistry (Omics)- This course covers state-of-the-art high-throughput established and novel approaches used in genome sequencing, and transcriptomics to obtain, integrate, analyze, and interpret biological data (bioinformatics). BIOC 495-003: Topics in Biochemistry (Vaccines)- This course instructs students in the application of biomolecular engineering principles to the design and assembly of vaccines and other immune engineering applications. It covers an overview of historical vaccine development, process technologies, immunology, & literature assessments. Students will also discuss economics, ethics, & medical impact of vaccines and emerging immunotherapies on global human health.
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Course
Credit Hours
Schedule
Course Director
Discovering the Biochemistry Major (BIOC 2110)- 12 weeks
1 credit (for freshmen & sophomores)
Fall
Dr. Curt Hines
Mentoring for Biochemistry and Biomedical Careers (BIOC 400)- 12 weeks
1 credit (for juniors & seniors)
Dr. Laura de Lorenzo
Introductory Biochemistry I (BIOC 445)
4 credits (for juniors)
Dr. Tyrel Bryan
Introductory Biochemistry II (BIOC 446)
Spring
Biochemical Methods (BIOC 448L)*
3 credits (for seniors)
Fall & Spring
Physical Biochemistry (BIOC 451)
Dr. Olga Ponomarova
Biochemistry of Disease I (BIOC 463)
Dr. Xiang Xue
Biochemistry of Disease II (BIOC 464)
Dr. Mark McCormick
Topics (Proteins, Evolution & Secondary Metabolism) (BIOC 495-001)
Topics (Omics) (BIOC 495-002)
Topics (Vaccines) (BIOC 495-003)
Dr. Brett Manifold-Wheeler
Senior Honors Research (BIOC 497)
3 credits (for juniors & seniors)
Senior Honors Research (BIOC 498)
Undergraduate Research (BIOC 499)
Up to 6 credits (for freshmen, sophomores, juniors & seniors)
Internal Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Electives
How to Get Started
Advising and career development are essential components of the Biochemistry undergraduate experience. Our program is designed to provide students with the guidance, resources, and skills needed to succeed academically and professionally. Through personalized advising, structured mentoring, and targeted career preparation, students are empowered to make informed decisions about their education and future pathways.
Apply
Plan Ahead: Ideally, begin honors work as a junior to allow sufficient time for research and thesis preparation Identify a Faculty Mentor: Select a faculty member who will supervise your honors research project Enroll in BIOC 497: This is the first course in the honors sequence, followed by BIOC 498 Contact the Honors Program Advisor: For guidance on requirements, timelines, and mentor selection
Mentorship is a key component of our students' success. One of the primary ways we provide mentoring to Biochemistry Majors is through the course “Mentoring for Biochemistry and Biomedical Careers” (BIOC 400). This course is designed as a structured opportunity for students to receive guidance from faculty and peers. Through BIOC 400, students engage in professional development activities, career planning discussions, and networking experiences that help them transition from classroom learning to research, graduate programs, and health professional careers. The Program offers: Peer Mentoring: Support from advanced students to help navigate coursework and campus resources Career Mentoring Initiatives: Connections with alumni and professionals for networking and career advice Informal Faculty Mentoring: Personalized guidance from faculty on academics, research, and graduate school preparation
The Biochemistry Program prepares students for diverse career paths, including: Graduate and PhD Programs Medical, Dental, Pharmacy, Physician Assistant Schools, and Allied Health Biotechnology and Industry Education and Science Communication Careers Students develop skills in scientific writing, presentations, CV preparation, and interviewing
Academic Advising
Eligibility Requirements
Departmental Honors Research in Biochemistry
Conduct Independent Research: Under faculty supervision, throughout BIOC 497 and BIOC 498 Submit a Senior Research Thesis: Based on your honors research project. The thesis must be submitted at least four weeks before the end of the semester in which you are enrolled in BIOC 498 Deliver an Oral Presentation: Present your research during the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Department Research Day, typically scheduled three weeks before the semester ends Meet Time Commitment: Approximately 9 hours/week of research work (3 hours per credit hour) Earn a Letter Grade: Based on laboratory performance, time commitment, thesis quality, and oral presentation
Enroll & complete BIOC 497 & BIOC 498
Biochemistry students receive discipline-specific advising to support: Course Planning: Guidance on selecting courses to meet degree requirements and align with career goals Career Exploration: Identifying opportunities in research, healthcare, industry, and other fields Graduation Readiness: Ensuring timely progress toward degree completion Advisors also help students understand prerequisites, research opportunities, and elective choices tailored to individual interests
Review the eligibility requirements below Begin identifying a research mentor among any STEM faculty at UNM Contact the Biochemistry Honors Program advisor for guidance (Dr. Curt Hines) Join the Biochemistry Honors Research Discord channel
Present & Submit Your Thesis
Advising, Mentoring, & Career Development
Conduct Independent research
Career Development & Professional Preparation
Declare Biochemistry as a major Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20 Complete six (6) credits of Honors Research by enrolling in both BIOC 497 and BIOC 498, conducting faculty-mentored independent research throughout Ideally, students begin their research work enrolling in the undergraduate BIOC 499 course, but it is not a requirement
The Departmental Honors Program provides motivated students with the opportunity to conduct original, faculty-mentored research. Honors students complete a two-semester research sequence and produce a written thesis and oral presentation.
Mentoring
Program Completion
The ASBMB@UNM Chapter is a student organization supported by the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Department and the UNM Student Activities Center. Its mission is to foster academic success, professional development, and community engagement for students interested in biochemistry and molecular biology. Membership Benefits Professional Networking: Connect with peers, faculty, and national ASBMB members Discounts & Resources: Reduced rates for ASBMB conferences, journal publications, & access to career development tools Leadership Opportunities: Participate in chapter governance and national ASBMB leadership programs Travel Awards Eligible members can apply for Student Chapters Travel Awards, providing up to $500 for presenting research at the ASBMB Annual Meeting (Awards are based on chapter size and member activity; applicants must submit abstracts as primary authors by the national deadline.) STEM Outreach Engage in K–12 STEM outreach through science fairs, workshops, and classroom activities Opportunities to design and lead outreach programs supported by ASBMB grants promoting scientific literacy in local communities Additional Opportunities Skill Development: Abstract writing, presentation practice, resume building, and interview preparation Academic Support: Peer-led review sessions and study nights for biochemistry and related courses Advocacy: Participate in initiatives promoting research funding and science policy awareness
Delegation
Leadership
Running Meetings
Budgeting
Joining ASBMB@UNM is an excellent way to enhance your academic experience, build your professional network, and contribute to the scientific community. Contact us at asbmb@unm.edu or follow us on Instagram. Visit the ASBMB site for more information.
Getting involved outside the classroom is one of the best ways to enrich your college experience and prepare for your future career. At UNM, there are over 300 student organizations looking for students just like you! You can participate as much or as little as you want. Start small by attending meetings or campus events (just 1–2 hours a week). Involvement helps you meet new people, discover opportunities, and develop essential skills that employers value, such as: Invest in your future by making yourself a well-rounded individual. Explore how easy it is to get involved—contact a group today! For more information and a complete list of organizations, visit the Student Activities Center and click on Student Orgs.
The American Society for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Student Organizations and Engagement
American Chemical Society- UNM Chapter
Neuropsyched
American Medical Student Association – PreMedicine
Nutrition Club
HOSA – Future Health Professionals
College of Pharmacy Student Pharmacist Council
Public Health Student Association
American Pharmacists Association - Academy of Student Pharmacists
Students Exploring Careers in Healthcare
Clinical Dietetics Club
Global Health Interest Group
Physician Assistant Student Society
Biology Undergraduate Society
Women’s Health Interest Group
Related Organizations at UNM
UNM offers a wide variety of student organizations focused on health, research, and science. An updated list is maintained by the UNM Student Activities Center. The table below highlights 14 organizations (with linked contact info) that are particularly relevant for Biochemistry majors interested in health or research.
Communication
Time Management
Students are responsible for understanding and following all UNM academic policies including: Academic integrity Attendance and participation, requirements Course withdrawal and progression policies Accessibility and accommodations Official policies are published in the UNM Catalog and Pathfinder Student Handbook
Utilize your campus resources
Engage Inside & outside the classroom
Success as a Biochemistry major at the University of New Mexico is built through intentional planning, active engagement, and effective use of available resources. The most successful students share common habits and strategies: 1. Plan Early and Meet with Advisors Regularly Meet with your Biochemistry advisor every semester—starting in your first year—to review degree progress, sequencing of prerequisites, and alignment with career goals. Early planning is essential due to course sequencing in biochemistry 2. Build a Strong Scientific Foundation Prioritize mastery of general chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus, and biology. These courses form the backbone of upper-division biochemistry and success in BIOC 445 and BIOC 446 3. Engage in Research Early Students who participate in undergraduate research gain critical thinking skills, confidence, and competitive advantages for graduate or professional school. Consider enrolling in BIOC 499 and seeking research opportunities as early as your sophomore year 4. Use Mentoring as a Resource Take advantage of structured mentoring opportunities such as BIOC 400 and informal faculty mentoring. Ask questions, seek feedback, and discuss career plans openly 5. Develop Professional Skills Strong communication skills matter. Practice scientific writing, oral presentations, and poster presentations whenever possible. Attend workshops on CV building and interviewing 6. Get Involved Beyond the Classroom Join student organizations such as ASBMB@UNM, participate in outreach, and attend seminars. Leadership and service experiences strengthen applications and professional identity 7. Maintain Balance and Well-Being Academic success is tied to personal well-being. Use campus resources for tutoring, wellness, accessibility services, and time management support
Plan by Meeting with advisors/Mentors
First Year (Exploration & Foundations) Complete General Chemistry I & II with labs Begin calculus sequence Explore biochemistry as a major (BIOC 2110 if applicable) Meet with academic advisor at least once per semester Second Year (Preparation & Skill Building) Complete Organic Chemistry I & II with labs Complete core biology courses Complete physics sequence (algebra- or calculus-based) Begin exploring undergraduate research opportunities Third Year (Engagement & Integration) Enroll in BIOC 445 and BIOC 446 Begin or continue undergraduate research (BIOC 499) Take physical chemistry course(s) Attend career and graduate school information sessions (BIOC 400 if applicable) Fourth Year (Synthesis & Transition) Complete BIOC 448L (Biochemical Methods) Complete upper-division biochemistry electives Apply to graduate/professional programs or jobs Complete honors research (BIOC 497/498), if applicable
Graduates of the UNM Biochemistry Program pursue a wide range of successful career pathways. The program’s strong foundation in scientific knowledge, research experience, and professional skill development prepares students for diverse futures. Graduate and Professional Education Ph.D. programs in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences Medical (MD, DO), Dental, Pharmacy, and Physician Assistant programs Public Health and Genetic Counseling programs Industry and Biotechnology Research associate and scientist positions Quality control and regulatory affairs Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies Healthcare and Clinical Careers Clinical laboratory sciences Healthcare consulting and diagnostics Allied health professions Education, Policy, and Communication Science education and outreach Science policy and advocacy Technical writing and science communication Alumni Pathways UNM Biochemistry alumni have progressed to faculty positions and leadership positions in industry, medicine, and other healthcare professions, and research-intensive graduate programs. Alumni frequently return as mentors, speakers, and collaborators, strengthening the program’s professional network.