Department of Biological Chemistry
Decoding the Molecular Mechanisms of Life and Health for Over a Century

Join the ranks of leading scientific researchers in a diverse quest to understand biological phenomena in molecular detail.

Biological Chemistry Hds Lab Area. Girl uses dropper to put liquid into small test tube
United on a Journey of Discovery

The Department of Biological Chemistry is dedicated to advancing the molecular understanding of biological processes. We do that through cutting-edge research, in tandem with teaching and training undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, and medical students. 

We want our whole community to have every opportunity to thrive. That means a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in all of our ranks. Because the most innovative and impactful discoveries are born from all of our unique perspectives, tackling challenges together. 

Contact Us
Department of Biological Chemistry
5301 MSRB III
1150 W. Medical Center Dr.
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0600
Phone: 734-647-6180
About Us

Read about our department’s history pioneering the study of life, health, and disease at a molecular level.

Education

Learn more about our PhD and Master's programs, and about opportunities for postdoctoral fellows and undergraduates.

Research

Explore our interdisciplinary research projects addressing important biomedical questions.

People

Access our directory of faculty, students, and postdoctoral fellows.

Biochemistry students look at a research poster at an event Read Our Recent Newsletters

Stay informed about our department’s achievements and the progress we’re making in our mission.

  • Department Newsletters
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    Spotlight On
    Faculty positions available in Biological Chemistry

    Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with a deadline of October 21, 2024, for full consideration.

    These are challenging times, but the potential and need for progress in fundamental science have never been greater.

    Department of Biological Chemistry Chair
    Chair Phyllis Hanson seated and smiling in a laboratory
    Upcoming Events View all events
    Dr. Dan Dickinson, University of Texas at Austin
    Join the Department of Biological Chemistry for a seminar presented by Dr. Dan Dickinson from the University of Texas at Austin.
    711 Seminar - Kierra Pendill
    The Department of Biological Chemistry hosts the 711 Graduate Seminar Paper Analysis presented by Kierra Pendill.
    Dr. Sujatha Jagannathan, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
    Join the Department of Biological Chemistry for a seminar presented by Dr. Sujatha Jagannathan from University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.
    Dr. Sergej Djuranovic, Washington University in St. Louis
    Join the Department of Biological Chemistry for a seminar presented by Dr. Sergej Djuranovic from Washington University in St. Louis.
    Dr. Mike Henne, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
    Join the Department of Biological Chemistry for a seminar presented by Dr. Mike Henne from University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
    Biological Chemistry News & STORIES See all news Headshot of Dr. James Morrissey alongside photo of his 2024 award from UM Cardiovascular Research Network
    Department News
    Congratulations to James Morrissey, PhD, and his research team for recent achievements
    Recent achievements from the Morrissey lab in the Department of Biological Chemistry at UM Medical School.
    Four smiling people at mentorship forum
    Department News
    Michael Uhler, PhD, recognized for exceptional mentorship
    UM Biological Chemistry Professor Emeritus Michael Uhler receives MICHR Distinguished Mentor Award.
    headshot Michael Rankin
    Department News
    Congratulations to Michael Rankin, PhD
    Biological Chemistry PhD student Michael Rankin of the Smith lab defends his doctoral dissertation.
    Logo for V Foundation for Cancer Research
    Department News
    John Prensner, MD, PhD, receives funding from the V Foundation for Cancer Research
    Assistant Professor John Prensner of the Departments of Pediatrics and Biological Chemistry at U-M Medical School is the recipient of a V Scholar Award.
    headshot of Cara Loomis
    Department News
    Congratulations to Cara Loomis, PhD
    Biological Chemistry PhD student Cara Loomis of the Scott lab defends her doctoral dissertation.
    Headshots of six 2024 trainee award winners
    Department News
    Winners of the 2024 Biological Chemistry Trainee Awards
    Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Trainee Awards!
    Giving back to BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY

    Every dollar donated helps us to continue making breakthroughs as a national leader in biochemical research. There are so many ways your financial gifts help to support our work, from bringing world-class lectures to campus to enabling graduate student innovation and providing resources that take our faculty research programs to the next level. Donated funds are an essential foundation of our mission and community.

    Make a difference
    LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

    The University of Michigan is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe people. In 1817, the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Bodewadmi Nations made the largest single land transfer to the University of Michigan, offered ceremonially through the Treaty at the Foot of the Rapids, with the intent that their children might be educated. We acknowledge their contemporary and ancestral ties to the land and this integral contribution to the University.