Biochemistry
The Northeastern biochemistry program explores how cell structure, chemical bonds and energy transformations impact our understanding of the mechanisms of life and provide a strong foundation for a host of impactful careers in the life sciences.
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Kirsten Fertuck
Kirsten Fertuck completed her undergraduate degree in Toxicology and Environment at the University of Toronto, Canada, and then completed a dual PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with Environmental Toxicology at Michigan State University. After postdoctoral research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, she taught at several schools, most recently at Northeastern University since 2014. Courses […] -
James Monaghan
We aim to understand the cellular and molecular basis of tissue regeneration by studying the highly-regenerative axolotl salamander. -
Otonye Braide-Moncoeur
Otonye Braide-Moncoeur is a Bioanalytical Chemist with an interest in the fundamental chemical and physical characteristics that govern molecular interactions in biomembrane dependent pathways. Her dissertation work provided extensive training in the study of protein-lipid interactions in the lung surfactant; and fueled her continued research efforts while serving as an Assistant Professor at her previous […] -
Yunrong Chai
Bacterial multicellular development and signaling -
Veronica Godoy-Carter
The Godoy lab is interested in investigating the regulation of the bacterial DNA damage responses (DDR) and the mutagenic Y-family DNA polymerases that are part of the DDR. These evolutionarily conserved DNA polymerases are prone to making errors when copying DNA that has been damaged. However, the activity of these DNA polymerases permits cell survival. […] -
Pedro Saavedra
Pedro Saavedra holds a B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Molecular Pathology from the University of Brasília, Brazil. He obtained his Ph.D. in 2018 from the University of Ghent in Belgium, where he studied the impact of inflammasomes and cell death in the context of auto-inflammatory and infectious diseases with Dr. Mohamed Lamkanfi. He then […] -
Penny Beuning
The Beuning laboratory is focused on understanding the structure-function-dynamics relationships of proteins and enzymes, particularly those involved in DNA metabolism and DNA damage responses.
Program Overview
A person has many trillions of cells in their body and at any given time, there are thousands of biochemical reactions taking place within those cells, even when the body is asleep. There are so many important jobs to be done – you are truly never at rest!
Your heart rate speeds up after you hear a loud noise. Your eyes are able to see what’s around you. Your blood sugar level lets you know whether you should break down that fuel and use it now, or whether you should store it in your muscles for later. How do these signals have meaning inside of us? Biochemists study these reactions and many more.
Understanding biochemical processes is a crucial step in problem-solving some of the world’s greatest challenges – disease, hunger, pollution. The success of vaccines to mitigate illnesses like smallpox, influenza, and coronavirus are examples that show how important it is to have a deep understanding of how diseases work and how they can be targeted.
Student Research Opportunities
Biochemistry research is interdisciplinary by nature, and there’s a broad array of laboratory research opportunities to explore here on campus, as well and nationally and internationally. Learn more about your research options for co-op, summer research, and more!
Biochemistry Education
Undergraduate Major
Students in this interdisciplinary program work in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, with opportunities to study neuroscience, bioorganic chemistry, stem cell and regenerative biology, microbial biotechnology, and systems biology and engineering.
Combined Majors
This combined major from the College of Engineering and College of Science serves students who wish to develop both a scientific and an engineering mindset to solve problems in bioengineering and biochemistry.
This intercollege combined major serves students who would like to explore their interest in biochemistry while earning the benefit of a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering
Undergraduate Minor
The biochemistry minor allows students to engage in interdisciplinary study of biochemistry to complement their major plans of study.
Accelerated Programs
Our BS/MS PlusOne programs allow students to pursue advanced degrees in a condensed period of time.
Bioinformatics, MS (PlusOne)
The MS in Bioinformatics program provides cross-disciplinary training in biology, computer science, and informational technology for today’s cutting-edge jobs in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Biotechnology, MS (PlusOne)
This professional science master’s combines advanced interdisciplinary training in biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, and pharmaceutical science with the development of high-value business skills critical to success in today’s dynamic workplace.
Cell and Gene Therapies, MS (PlusOne)
This innovative nonthesis MS degree program prepares students for the evolving field of cell and gene therapy medicines. The industry-aligned curriculum provides the knowledge and experience to advance your biotechnology career.
Chemistry, MS (PlusOne)
This MS degree program offers concentrations in analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, and in interdisciplinary fields such as polymers, materials, and bio-related chemistry.
Pre-Med and Pre-Health Track
Our PreMed and PreHealth Advising program offers personalized expertise to students pursuing health careers. This comprehensive program includes application guidance, workshops and presentations, course mapping and more.
Experiential Learning
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Cooperative Education
With Northeastern situated in the heart of Boston, there is no shortage of co-op opportunities in the fields of biotechnology, biomedical, and healthcare. From penguin tanks at the New England Aquarium to infectious disease research at Massachusetts General Hospital, students have the chance to explore careers paths and gain experiences they never thought possible.
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Global Experiences
Northeastern Biochemistry students have the opportunity to study at the University of Dundee, Scotland — the No. 1 rated Life Sciences university in the UK. This program also provides the opportunity to engage in hands-on research at one of the world’s emerging centers for biomedical research.
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Entrepreneurship
Our Science Connects to Innovation Program empowers undergraduate science students through education, resources, and networks to create entrepreneurial solutions—spanning cleaner energy, eco-friendly pesticides, potential anticancer compounds, sustainable foods, and high-tech assistive devices.
Ready to apply?
Student Stories
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Student Spotlight
Ashlin Owen ‘26, Biochemistry
Ashlin Owen shares how her experience in class, the lab, and on co-op have shaped her perspective and career path. -
Student Spotlight
Student Profile: Margaret Cai, Biochemistry and Chemical Engineering Major
Margaret Cai is a Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry Major. She is graduating in the Class of 2022. Why did you decide to study Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry at Northeastern? “I’ve always been very interested in biology and chemistry. When I was younger, I read books about diseases just because I found them fascinating. I chose […]
Upcoming events
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Jul 23College of Science
STEM Summer Camp In The UK | London International Youth Science Forum CIC
July 23, 2025, 10:00 am -
Jul 25
Biochemistry in the News
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News
Hot, dry weather kills the deer ticks that cause Lyme. But your clothes dryer does an even better job
The black-legged deer ticks that transmit Lyme disease to thousands of Americans every year can survive below-freezing temperatures and go more than a year without a meal. Want to see their superpowers evaporate? Bring on hot, dry weather. One thing deer ticks hate: Hot, dry weather When deer ticks are exposed for too long to […] -
News
How to prevent tick bites: 5 expert tips for summer safety
Worried about ticks this summer? Kim Lewis, professor of biology, has some tips and tricks on how to prevent tick bites! -
Research
How do axolotls regenerate limbs and organs? This researcher has started to uncover the secret
New research by James Monaghan, professor of biology, shows that the key to axolotl limb regeneration is retinoic acid. Could this be the key to human limb regeneration in the future? -
News
These graduates earned degrees 13 years apart but built a business partnership on a shared mission to improve mental health care
Two Northeastern alumni, who graduated 13 years apart, are teaming up to help patients manage their mental health using their biometric data. -
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Spotted in the Windy City: huskies swept away by groundbreaking research
Northeastern University students traveled to Chicago to attend the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology’s annual meeting. -
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The tiny ticks that cause Lyme seem to have superpowers that make them hard to kill. But you can protect yourself by following these steps
Associate biology professor, Constantin Takacks, shares information about deer ticks and some tips on how to stay safe. -
Research
This antibiotic is effective against anthrax, and has no detectable resistance, Northeastern research finds
Kim Lewis and Slava Epstein, Northeastern biology professors, developed an antibiotic over a decade ago that can now be used against anthrax. -
Research
Patagonian ‘living rocks’ trace their origins to the beginning of life on Earth
Veronica Godoy-Carter, professor of Biology and Biochemistry, has sequenced the genome of a “living hill” or bacterial colony found in Patagonia.