BIOCHEMISTRY

Biochemistry as a branch of study is gaining added impetus with each passing day. An innumerably large number of students opt for this branch of study considering the fact that there exists vast employment opportunities for those with PhD, MSc and even Degree certificates. These candidates are absorbed in Research institutions and also as faculty in various colleges and Institutions. Adequate opportunity also exists for them to be selected as scientists, research officers, research associates and as chemical examiners.

Biochemistry is the science dealing with the chemical properties of the parts of living organisms. The study of the structure and properties of the enzymes, proteins, Genes, Carbohydrates and fat form the basis of Biochemistry. The scope for study and research in Biochemistry is endless according to Dr. P.R. Sudhakaran, head of the Biochemistry department, Kerala University. As of now Biochemistry has attained the position of an independent discipline.

Courses: Those with high marks in the plus II with Physics chemistry and Biology as optional subjects can opt for the Biochemistry degree course. Recently a large number of colleges have started to offer degree in BSc Biochemistry. Students have the option to choose Biochemistry as the main subject with chemistry, Botany and Zoology as subsidiary subjects. The student can also opt to take Biochemistry as the main subject and industrial Microbiology as the core subject. Those studying for BSc with Botany and Zoology as main subjects can take Biochemistry as a subsidiary subject. Like wise some colleges offer the facility to study Biotechnology as the main subject and Biochemistry as the Subsidiary subject in their BSc degree course.

Scope also exists for MSc, M.phil and PhD studies in Biochemistry. Those scoring high marks in their BSc Biochemistry or those with chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Biophysics, Biotechnology and Microbiology degree examination having high marks can study for their MSc Biochemistry and those scoring above 55% marks in the MSc Biochemistry can further study for MPhil and PhD programmes.

BSc courses in Biochemistry are offered at several colleges within the state. Only those scoring over 85% marks in BSc courses stand a chance to get admission to MSc Biochemistry courses. MPhil and PhD programmes can be completed at a limited number of colleges and Institutes in the state.

Besides the existing colleges in the state, a large number of colleges and Institutes offer ample scope for study of this discipline. All India institute of medical sciences, New Delhi, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Manipal Academy of higher education, School of life Science Chennai and School of Basic Medical Science Chennai are some of the notable Institutes outside the state that offer courses in Biochemistry.