For Duke Undergrads
Certificates in Biology and Chemistry
Although Duke does not offer an undergraduate major in Biochemistry, students can earn a Certificate in Biochemistry through either the Biology or Chemistry departments. The inclusion of additional analytical background in chemistry and biochemistry is valuable preparation for students planning graduate studies in biochemistry and molecular biology, as well as professional studies in the health sciences. Interested undergraduates are encouraged to contact faculty within the Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology regarding research projects in their labs. Students fulfilling the Concentration in Biochemistry requirements will receive a note on their official transcript certifying successful completion of the requirements.
Read more about the requirement for a BS in Biology with a Concentration in Biochemistry
Read more about the requirements for a BS in Chemistry with a Concentration in Biochemistry
Dr. Brian Coggins teaches the undergraduate course, Biochem 301. Read how his students leverage small study groups led by undergraduates who previously took his course.
Summer Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Fellowships
Motivated Duke undergraduate students can get hands-on, graduate-level biomedical research experience through a summer Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Fellowship.
Research Fellowship Fast Facts
- You can receive a full-time, paid research position in a Biochemistry-focused laboratory for up to 8 weeks.
- You will be compensated $500/week x 8 weeks (exact dates and fellowship length can be negotiated with your Faculty mentor.) Students may not hold concurrent funding from another source unless approved by Biochemistry DUS. Director of Undergraduate Studies is Lorena Beese.
- You must find a Biochemistry Department faculty mentor (students with ongoing research projects in a biochemistry lab do qualify.)
Who Can Apply
All interested students should apply. Preference will be given to students who have completed BCH301, those who have taken or are currently enrolled in BCH302 or other advanced BCH courses, and those with a Biochem concentration.
How to Apply
Your Application document must include:
- Your Major/Minor/Concentration, and your unofficial transcript
- A statement (1-2 paragraphs) of research goals
- A statement (1-2 paragraphs) of how this experience will impact your future goals
Identify the Biochemistry Dept primary faculty member that you have spoken to about doing summer research, or in whose lab you are currently working.
Information about the the Summer 2027 program is pending - please check back for application details.
Undergraduate Research Funding
Undergraduates can receive research funding from various sources including the Undergraduate Research Support Office.