ELEMENTS. CHEMICALS. MINERALS. MOLECULAR. PHYSICAL.
Welcome to the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
Chemistry is often called the central science as it deals specifically with the 112 elements that comprise all matter. There are five branches of chemistry: analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry and theoretical chemistry. The primary focus of the program is to provide you with extensive theoretical knowledge in all five branches of chemistry while enhancing your technical and practical skills with hands-on experience and research opportunities.
The Departments of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Biological Sciences jointly offer a multi-disciplinary major in biochemistry for the 40-course Bachelor of Science (BSc). You can also select a general major in the sciences and choose biochemistry courses as options. Biochemistry will help you develop a strong background in the basic sciences and extensive laboratory skills. Thereby, it provides background for a diverse range of careers in the life sciences, including professional programs such as medicine and veterinary medicine.
The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry is home to many advanced instruments which enable cutting-edge research. These tools include nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infra-red, Raman, UVvisible, atomic absorption spectrometers, macromolecular x-ray diffractometer, isothermal titration calorimeter, and a surface plasmon resonance spectrometer.
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Department Highlights
Winner of the RNA Canada ARN Design Contest!
The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Lethbridge is delighted to extend its congratulations to Jessica Semmelrock, a recent M.Sc. graduate, for her outstanding achievement in winning the RNA Canada ARN design contest. Jessica's design will be featured on merchandise available for purchase at the upcoming RNA Canada ARN 2024 conference in Ottawa this fall. She will also be receiving a $100 cash prize for her exceptional work.
Furthermore, Jessica has graciously donated the original framed painting for a silent auction at the RNA Canada ARN 2024 conference, with all proceeds benefiting RNA Canada ARN.
Congratulations great accomplishment, Jessica!
Medal Winner Rajwinder Kaur
Rajwinder Kaur (MSc '17, PhD '24) came to ULethbridge having completed her Bachelor's and Master of Science in Chemistry from India and subsequently started a master’s degree at ULethbridge in 2017 before transferring to a PhD program in 2019. She received a prestigious Alberta Innovates scholarship along with Board of Governors and School of Graduate Studies tuition scholarships. While at ULethbridge, Kaur published six research articles, and presented her work at 23 local, national and international conferences.
Meet Rajwinder | Medals won: Gold Medal of the Governor General (Graduate Studies) and Graduate Studies Medal of Merit (PhD)
Program: PhD | Major: Theoretical & Computational Science
Internationally recognized inorganic chemist, Dr. René Boeré, earns 2024 Speaker Research Award
An internationally recognized inorganic chemist and leader in his field of chemistry, Professor Emeritus Dr. René Boeré has been named the 2024 winner of the University of Lethbridge’s Speaker Research Award.
Boeré has inspired his fellow scientists within the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at ULethbridge since he became a faculty member in 1988. In addition, his work has spawned collaborations with scientists at universities across the globe, all while leading a highly productive research program that has been continuously funded for more than 30 years.
Shining Student Uvindu Abeysekara: A journey of academic excellence, research, and community engagement at ULethbridge
With unwavering determination, creativity, and an outgoing nature, Uvindu Abeysekara's ULethbridge journey serves as an inspiration, urging us to seize opportunities and push beyond our comfort zones for a transformative university experience.
From iGEM to innovating antibiotics: Sydnee Calhoun's inspiring journey at ULethbridge
From her early involvement in the iGEM competition to her research in the field of biochemistry, Sydnee Calhoun (MSc '23 (BSc Co-op '19)) has left an indelible mark on the University and …
Shining Student Ty Dudas
Third-year neuroscience student Ty Dudas embraces ULethbridge’s liberal education philosophy and takes courses outside his major. This discovery led him to organic chemistry and research he hopes will be used to make …
Career Bridge: Centre for Work-Integrated Learning and Career Development
Put Your Knowledge to Work
Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects on campus or by testing your knowledge in a real-life work setting, we can help! The University of Lethbridge is proud to offer you an exceptional opportunity to explore professional development through academic programs and services designed to give you a competitive edge in a fast-changing world.
You have a bright future — experience it via Career Bridge at uLethbridge!