biochemistry personal statement template

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Biochemistry Personal Statement Examples

Sample statement.

My interest in science first began as a child watching science fiction television programmes and I was thrilled when I got older to discover that molecules and biochemistry really existed.

I became fascinated with how life works at a molecular level and that something as tiny as a water molecule can make such an impact on our daily lives. I feel that the study of Biochemistry is the key to understanding everything about our life process and how we can ensure the survival of the human race.

At school I worked hard to acquire the skill set I would need to study Biochemistry at university by taking Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. I also spent many hours studying around these subjects outside of lessons to equip myself with as much knowledge as I could.

In particular I find genetics highly interesting and with this in mind I completed a work experience placement in a hospital laboratory where I was able to observe the staff, take part in data collection, and get hands-on experience with laboratory equipment.

When I am not studying I enjoy travelling, dining out, and I am still very interested in science fiction films and television programmes. I also participate in several local sports teams including football, rugby, and cricket.

I find an active lifestyle outside of the classroom helps me to balance my studies and allows me to work more thoroughly when I am in the classroom.

After completing my work experience at the hospital I began working part time in my local Boots store pharmacy department to further my knowledge of diseases, medicines, and treatments.

This role also taught me about teamwork and encouraged me to gain a sense of responsibility and maturity that I feel will help me through my university career.

I look forward to gaining a more in depth understand of Biochemistry during my time with your university and having my analytical and research skills stretched. The new challenges I will face will give me the skill set I need to be successful in my future career as a Biochemist.

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Sample Personal Statement Biochemistry

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to top Ph.D. programs in biochemistry. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at University of Utah and Johns Hopkins. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in biochemistry should look like.

The day I dared to tell my parents, with a transcript in my hands with excellent grades in humanities, that I had decided to study Biology rather than Philosophy… the day I dared to ask my supervisor to change my research focus to fish virology, which had a high risk of failure… the day I dared to stand in front of an audience attending an international zoology congress, barely prepared to present my very first paper … are the moments that made me realize my daring nature and my passion for my domain.

Research captivated me from the beginning of my undergraduate thesis. My newfound fascination blossomed under the aegis of my Biochemistry Professor. My professor was a research enthusiast and an inspirational teacher. He combined knowledge with research in a truly intriguing way that traditional teachers simply could not equal. Therefore, despite growing up in a culture where doctors and engineers are the only scientific community accorded social preeminence, I embraced research as my vocation.

Becoming a dedicated researcher was tough, especially in Canada, where few institutes are committed to producing meaningful research work in Biosciences. Nonetheless, I have persevered, always striving for perfection and never allowing limited resources to hinder my progress. Indeed, the hurdles I have faced have only deepened my passion for research.

In research, more than in any other field, it is often the tortoise who wins the race. Consistency and hard work outstrip ingenuity. Excellence is acquired through unwavering passion rather than God-giftedness. Research demands consistency more than anything. Here, we learn why things sometimes operate differently than we want. Every day, we regather our energies, return to our work, and patiently proceed toward perfection.

Graduate school is the next logical step in a career dedicated to scientific research. For me, research in Biosciences is about responsibility, individuality, and the discovery of new branches of innovation. My experience in a non-traditional research environment will add immense value to the well-structured research-oriented set-up of graduate school.

In the summer of 2021, hoping to experience firsthand the application of the research tools in biochemistry, I began working with stressors that affect the immune system of foals. I was fascinated by the sensitive nature of this system and by the delicate balance in which disturbances cause autoimmune, allergic, and inflammatory responses. I recorded the numerical data and published my research in the Journal of Veterinary Science.

The diversity of nature unfolded further when as a principal investigator, I started working on interferon regulatory proteins in Cyprinus carpio. My research uncovered evidence that the fish body, even under healthy conditions, produced these proteins to counteract the viral attack. Ranging from IRF1 to IRF8, I isolated all transcriptional factors of IFNs proteins expression. I extended my project to gene sequencing by applying BLAST and arranging partial sequences. My work was later authenticated by RCMB (Research Centre in Molecular Biology), and a corresponding research paper was published in the Annual Review of Biochemistry. My future strategy would be to develop IFN vaccines because these vaccines, if successful, will enhance the overall immune system.

Soon afterward, I joined a project on the characterization of an inflammatory cytokine, TNF. I was responsible for training three undergraduate students in molecular biology techniques. Considering my deep curiosity in this domain, my supervisor made me part of two senior Ph.D. student teams. We worked on the characterization of MHC class II (Major Histocompatibility Complex) in Labeo rohita and Cyprinus carpio. Upon contact with foreign prions, toxins, poisons, viruses, and bacteria, these antigenic molecules are expressed naturally by dendritic phagocytes, B cells, and T cells.

While gathering data about Egyptian mummies and reading about curse diseases, I initially dismissed it as a perverse form of fictional beauty. Microorganisms have been close partners of human beings for centuries. However, while reading the paper “Pharaohs and Mummies: Diseases of Ancient Egypt and Modern Approaches,” I appreciated Mycobacterium’s enduring nature and concluded that these particles have been co-evolving with humans.

My childhood fascinations ceased to exist within the boundaries of strategies viruses employ during the “encephalitic” and “paralytic” phases of rabies. Instead, my curiosity embraced the swaths of molecular details of simple queries to complex inter-connected abstractions. How viruses use tricks to escape our defense system, and how HIV rapid mutation potential benefitted the viruses, but most mutations are deleterious to human beings.

All these have become new avenues of research for me. Working in Dr. Wayne Potts and Dr. Saveez Saffarian’s labs is particularly interesting in this scenario.

I look at microbes from a different perspective: they have enormous potential, and if something has potential, there is always a way to turn it to use. Therefore, we must search for a meaningful channel into which it can be diverted. Now, we are standing at a very primitive stage and must proceed with immense care.

After earning my Ph.D., I see myself working as a research scientist cum teacher of Virology and Biochemistry. I want to pass on to future generations of scientists the passion for research with which my teachers inspired me. My faith in mixing teaching and research work has strengthened as a lecturer.

If I were asked to give a single reason to pursue a graduate degree, my answer would be love. I love my subject and can achieve something marvelous in this discipline to help make the world a better place.

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Biochemistry personal statement example 9.

Biochemistry has the power to unlock key mysteries of the physical world with the potential to improve the quality of life, offering to explore the inter-relationship between Chemistry and Biology which I noticed in my first term of biology: as water was said to be a polar compound, I was able to prove this with my knowledge of Chemistry because the difference in electronegativity between the hydrogen and oxygen, causes polarity.

During the course, I set out to try to understand biology with Chemistry leading me to learn more on the correlation between these two subjects. This has helped me improve my biological insight, as I would always seek a way to prove biological findings with my chemical theory, therefore each learning step would help me advance in both the subjects I love.

Eager to comprehend complicated DNA diseases with Chemistry, I started reading 'Junk DNA' by Nessa Carey, which has given me greater knowledge on how slight mutations to DNA through repetition, can cause diseases such as myotonic dystrophy. It creates an unstable chain of repeated codons; my knowledge is limited to only understanding the simple aspects to this disease. However, I want to further understand the cycle at a microscopic level, where the DNA's mutation begins to affect the transcription and translation stages, to where the proteins formed that will cause muscle stiffness and cardiac defects.

The desire to learn more, pushed me to attend lectures at King's College London and UCL, in which I would note down all I could on Oncology, Micro-biology and also Psychology. These subjects drove me to research more about the Chemistry of these subjects and whether I could implement my knowledge of the atoms from the periodic table and their tendencies to make sense of the information on the causes of cancer and the miniscule chemical reactions which result in the defected phenotype. Reading 'Growth of the world's first biolimb,' in the New Scientist has intrigued me, as scientists have now created a rat's forearm within a petri dish. Reading about how scientists keep finding unique and new discoveries to this day, gives me hope that I too will use my research and revolutionise the world of Biochemistry.

After four years of rowing in lower-school and taking part in my school for the second XV in rugby, I appreciate how to balance my work with my free time and recognize the importance of having a sport to help sustain a healthy studious environment. In addition to the physical sports, I needed to vary my normal routine by creating a table-tennis club with my peers after school. This has given me a sense of both leadership and organisational skills whilst still enjoying the sport.

For the past year, I have been attending the Royal Hospital for Neuro-Disability where I help the patients getting from different wards and it also gives me plenty of time to talk with them and doctors to get a greater understanding of the complicated diseases. When I return home, I would sometimes research the diseases of the patients I looked after. The most common disease was Parkinson's and through research, I have more knowledge on how it works to kill the dopamine-generating cells in the substantia nigra and it helps me understand the chain reactions which cause these neurological diseases. Through work at the hospital, I have acquired many skills which range from being organised, being able to collect the right drugs and at the correct volume needed for the patient. It has improved my technique in the labs within both Biology and Chemistry. It has made me understand how vital the accuracy of my research and experiments must be.

The switch from A levels to Biochemistry will include vast amounts of work and be very challenging, however I will use all the experience I have acquired with my capability to learn, the research collected and my fascination with the subject, to overcome the difficulties and meet my desires to succeed in university.

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Biochemistry Personal Statement at Oxford: TOP Tips

Oxford biochemistry personal statement tips: – top 10 dos and don’ts.

The Oxford Personal Statement is a crucial component of your university application as it presents a unique opportunity for you to differentiate yourself from other applicants. In your Biochemistry personal statement, Oxford admissions tutors will be looking for you to be able to articulate your story and explain your interests beyond that of numbers on an admissions test. Furthermore, it gives the interviewer a chance to understand who you are, providing a platform to bounce off questions during your interview. 

They can tailor questions to your personality, interests, and commitment to who you are as a person and your amalgamation of experiences before you. To guide you through the arduous university application process, our Oxbridge application experts have compiled a list of top 10 Biochemistry Personal Statement Oxford tips. This includes dos and don’ts for your personal statement for biochemistry for the 2023/24 application cycle. 

General Advice for the Biochemistry Personal Statement Oxford

Biochemistry is a course that uses molecular procedures to investigate and explain biological processes. The understanding and knowledge of these vital processes that are necessary for life are constantly growing and expanding. Biochemists have designed applications in drug design, environmental monitoring, and forensic sciences, amongst other fields.

Your Biochemistry Oxford personal statement must clearly demonstrate your interest in biological processes and the study of them at a molecular level. Moreover, when planning out your personal statement for biochemistry, make sure you research the University’s achievements in their relevant fields and use it as a guide to illustrate your interest in Biochemistry. 

Top 5 Tips for Oxford Biochemistry Personal Statement

1. explain why you are interested in biochemistry.

Oxford tutors are looking to teach students with genuine interest and passion for their course. Hence, make this the focus of your Oxford personal statement, explaining why you want to study your chosen subject. Using concrete examples that display your interest will go a long way in demonstrating this interest. For example, this could include participating in biology or chemistry competitions. It could also be partaking in research projects, and reading up on the latest innovations published in articles or books. Do not worry if you do not have a specific example or time where your ambition became crystal clear to you. Your decision in choosing to study biochemistry can be illuminated through an amalgamation of your experiences or understanding of yourself and your strengths. Take your time in explaining why you align well with the course!

2. Display a good understanding of the course

Understand the course that you are applying for. Ensure that you do not have a superficial or misguided view of what the course entails. Most people’s perception of a course is shaped by what they see in the media or by their high school subjects. However, this is not always the case and it leads to a one-dimensional view of the course. Try to talk to graduates or people currently working in the field to gain a better understanding of the course and your options post-graduation. You can demonstrate this understanding in your Oxford personal statement by linking similarities in your past experiences to aspects of Biochemistry (if applicable). Or you can elaborate on personal qualities or traits that make you suitable for Biochemistry. For example, Biochemistry is research-heavy, which would make perseverance a good quality for an applicant to have.

3. Read around the subject you’re applying for

Of course, Oxford does not expect you to be an expert in your field of study. You are going to university to study the material after all. However, being well-read in your course and reading ahead is a great way of demonstrating your interest in it. Look at it this way: if we are interested in a movie star, we would want to find out everything about him. Similarly, if you are genuinely interested in your course, you would also naturally want to learn more and explore the topic on your own. Reading does not only include books. This could also include podcasts, magazine articles, or even Netflix documentaries. Listening to a podcast on your ride home from school can be a nice way to ease such material into your lifestyle. You can find some good articles in Nature or Scientific American that publishes the latest innovations in biochemistry. You can also visit Oxford’s recommended reading list for some book inspirations: Oxford Biochemistry  

4. Have a good structure for your Biochemistry personal statement

The points listed above give you a lot of content to write about. However, all of that information can be difficult to get through for the reader if it’s not organised well! Try and follow a fixed overall structure for your Oxford personal statement. Also try and structure it into individual paragraphs to enhance readability. For example, your introduction could be a short 2-3 lines outlining your interest in Biochemistry. You could use one paragraph explaining your interest in academic vigour, and another paragraph explaining how you display perseverance. You can conclude by wrapping up the points mentioned above! For individual paragraphs, start off the paragraph with a point (such as your interest in the research aspect of biochemistry). Next, use concrete examples to support this.

5. Ask your friends and family to proofread your Oxford personal statement

Sometimes we are not able to be objective about our own work, especially when we are telling our own story. Try and approach friends, family, or seniors (especially those already in the same course or university!) to proofread your Biochemistry personal statement Oxford and to provide you with feedback. They can comment on the structure and readability of your Oxford personal statement, which could be really valuable! That being said, don’t share your personal statement for biochemistry in case it gets plagiarised by someone else.

Top 5 things to AVOID for your Biochemistry Oxford Personal Statement

1. writing a list of achievements.

Oxford isn’t necessarily choosing the most decorated candidate that applies– they are looking for students who are genuinely interested in the course, and students who are a good fit for it. This means that you could have started a non-profit and dedicated 10,000 hours to volunteering, but if you don’t show how this is relevant to your studying of biochemistry, the Oxford tutors may not necessarily think you are suited for the programme. When talking about your achievements, always link back to how this is relevant to either your interest or your suitability for biochemistry.

2. Valuing vocabulary over conciseness

Some students feel the need to use bombastic words or flowery language in order to impress Oxford tutors and use it as a way to demonstrate their strong command of the English language. However, this usually works against them– the Biochemistry personal statement (Oxford) comes off as sounding unnatural and difficult to read. Understand that the Biochemistry personal statement is a medium for you to tell your story and your passion. If using a thesaurus is getting in the way of that, opt for simple language. Oxford tutors value a personal statement for biochemistry that they can read with ease and understand! If you’re not familiar with certain words, don’t use them as it might work against you instead!

3. Not showing the link to biochemistry

When writing your Biochemistry personal statement, Oxford tutors are not necessarily looking for good students– they are looking for students who are a good match for the course. Always make sure to draw any personal experiences, quality or trait mentioned to how it is relevant to your passion for biochemistry or how it makes you a good fit for the course.

4. Misunderstanding what the course is about

Make sure you thoroughly research the course– this includes the course syllabus, attending seminars or speaking to seniors who are currently studying biochemistry (preferably at Oxford!) or have graduated from the course. A simple google search and thoroughly reading all university brochure materials is a good start on understanding what you are in for! Try to forget all previous assumptions you have about the course, and make sure you thoroughly understand what you would be studying.

5. Being cliché

When talking about your interest and passion for biochemistry, try to explain it in a genuine and authentic way. You don’t need a movie-like moment, such as your whole life-changing because of applications in biochemistry, to justify your motivation for the course. A simple explanation of how unique aspects of biochemistry intrigues you or draws you in, although seemingly simple and ordinary, would be even more valuable if explained well. Try to be authentic and original, and really understand why YOU would love to study biochemistry.

→ What is the Oxford Biochemistry programme?

The Oxford Biochemistry programme is an undergraduate degree programme offered by the University of Oxford’s Department of Biochemistry. The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the chemical and molecular processes that occur in living organisms, with a focus on the biochemistry of cells, genetics, and molecular biology.

→ What are some tips for writing a strong Oxford Biochemistry personal statement?

Some tips for writing a strong Biochemistry Oxford personal statement include demonstrating a clear understanding of the subject and why it interests the candidate, highlighting relevant academic achievements and extracurricular activities, showcasing research experience and analytical skills, and demonstrating a genuine passion for biochemistry and molecular biology.

→ What should be included in an Oxford Biochemistry personal statement?

A Biochemistry personal statement for Oxford should include information about the candidate’s academic achievements, extracurricular activities, research experience, and personal qualities that are relevant to the program. It should also include specific examples of how the candidate has demonstrated analytical skills, critical thinking, and an understanding of the subject.

→ How long should an Oxford Biochemistry personal statement be?

The Biochemistry personal statement for Oxford should be no more than 4,000 characters or 47 lines, whichever comes first. Candidates should use this space wisely to showcase their strengths and demonstrate their suitability for the programme.

→ Is it important to tailor the personal statement to the Oxford Biochemistry programme specifically?

Yes, it is important to tailor the personal statement to the Oxford Biochemistry programme specifically. This includes researching the program and understanding its unique features and requirements, as well as demonstrating a genuine interest in the subject and a strong motivation to study at the University of Oxford.

→ How important is the personal statement for the Oxford Biochemistry programme?

The personal statement is a crucial part of the Oxford Biochemistry application process as it allows candidates to showcase their passion for the subject and their potential to succeed in the programme. The personal statement also provides the admissions team with insight into a candidate’s motivation, academic background, and personal qualities.

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Biochemistry Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Biochemists
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

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Captivated by the intricate chemistry of life and the molecules that drive biological processes? Eager to unravel the secrets of DNA, proteins, and metabolic pathways?

Pursuing a course in Biochemistry can immerse you in the fascinating world where biology meets chemistry, equipping you with the tools to understand and manipulate the molecular foundations of life itself.

Biochemistry is a fascinating and complex science that combines the principles of biology and chemistry. It is a field of study that focuses on the structure, function, and interactions of molecules within living organisms. Biochemistry is a rapidly growing field and is essential for understanding the complexities of life.

The study of biochemistry requires a strong background in both biology and chemistry. Students must have a solid understanding of the principles of both sciences in order to be successful in the field. In addition, a strong knowledge of mathematics and physics is also beneficial.

When applying to a biochemistry program, it is important to include a personal statement that explains why you are interested in the field and why you would be a good fit for the program. Your personal statement should emphasize your academic achievements, research experience, and any extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to the field.

In addition to a personal statement, applicants must also provide a course overview. This should include a description of the courses you plan to take, the research projects you plan to undertake, and any other relevant information.

Biochemistry is a challenging and rewarding field of study that can lead to a variety of career opportunities. With the right preparation and dedication, you can become a successful biochemist.

👍 When writing a personal statement: Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in biochemistry can open up a variety of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

In the public sector, graduates with a biochemistry degree can pursue a career in research and development, working for government agencies, universities, and research institutes. These roles may involve conducting experiments, analyzing data, and writing reports.

In the private sector, biochemistry graduates can find employment in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries. These roles may involve developing new drugs and treatments, testing new products, and conducting clinical trials.

Biochemistry graduates can also pursue careers in the food and beverage industry, working in product development, quality assurance, and research.

Other potential career paths include teaching and lecturing at universities and colleges, working in the environmental sector, and providing scientific advice to businesses and organizations.

Finally, graduates with a biochemistry degree can also pursue a career in healthcare, working as a medical laboratory technologist, medical scientist, or clinical biochemist. These roles involve conducting laboratory tests and analyzing biological samples to diagnose and treat diseases.

UK Admission Requirements

The entry requirements for a Biochemistry course at a UK university vary depending on the institution and the specific course. Generally, however, the entry requirements for a Biochemistry course include a minimum of two A-Levels in Chemistry, Biology, or a related subject, as well as a minimum of five GCSEs , including Maths and English, with grades of C or higher.

In addition to the academic qualifications, some universities may also require applicants to have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience or a relevant degree.

The grades required for entry into a Biochemistry course are usually higher than those required for other science courses. For example, some universities may require applicants to have A-Levels in Chemistry and Biology with grades of A or higher, or an equivalent qualification.

The entry criteria for a Biochemistry course may also vary depending on the university. For example, some universities may require applicants to have a minimum of two A-Levels in Chemistry, Biology, or a related subject, as well as a minimum of five GCSEs, including Maths and English, with grades of C or higher.

Other universities may require applicants to have a minimum of three A-Levels in Chemistry, Biology, or a related subject, as well as a minimum of five GCSEs, including Maths and English, with grades of C or higher.

UK Earnings Potential For Biochemists

The average earnings for someone with a degree in biochemistry can vary significantly depending on the job and the location. According to the UK Office for National Statistics, the median salary for a biochemist in the UK was £34,845 in 2019. This figure is expected to increase over the next few years as the demand for biochemists with higher qualifications increases.

In terms of trends in the job market, the demand for biochemists is expected to rise as the need for research and development in the field increases. Additionally, biochemists are increasingly being sought after for roles in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, where salaries tend to be higher.

Furthermore, the rise of artificial intelligence and big data is creating more opportunities for biochemists to develop and apply innovative solutions to complex problems.

Overall, the job market for biochemists is expected to remain strong in the coming years, with salaries continuing to increase as demand for qualified professionals grows.

Similar Courses in UK

Other related university courses in the UK related to biochemistry include:

1. Molecular Biology: This course focuses on the study of the structure and function of genes and their products, such as proteins and enzymes. It also covers topics such as gene expression, gene regulation, and genetic engineering. The key difference between biochemistry and molecular biology is that biochemistry focuses more on the chemical processes within cells, while molecular biology focuses more on the genetic and molecular aspects of cells.

2. Microbiology: This course focuses on the study of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. It covers topics such as microbial physiology, genetics, and ecology. The key difference between biochemistry and microbiology is that biochemistry focuses more on the chemical processes within cells, while microbiology focuses more on the study of microorganisms.

3. Biomedical Science: This course focuses on the study of the human body and its diseases. It covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology. The key difference between biochemistry and biomedical science is that biochemistry focuses more on the chemical processes within cells, while biomedical science focuses more on the study of the human body and its diseases.

UK Curriculum

Biochemistry is a subject that covers a wide range of topics, from the molecular basis of life to the biochemical processes that occur in living organisms. In a university course, the topics covered may include:

• Introduction to Biochemistry: This module provides an overview of the fundamentals of biochemistry, including the structure and function of biomolecules, the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions, and the role of metabolism in living organisms.
• Molecular Biology: This module covers the structure and function of DNA, RNA, and proteins, as well as the processes of gene expression and regulation.
• Metabolism: This module explores the biochemical processes that occur in living organisms, including the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
• Enzymology: This module covers the structure and function of enzymes, as well as their role in biochemical reactions.
• Biochemical Techniques: This module covers the techniques used in biochemistry, such as chromatography, electrophoresis, and spectroscopy.
• Cell Biology: This module covers the structure and function of cells, as well as the processes of cell division and differentiation.
• Immunology: This module covers the structure and function of the immune system, as well as the role of antibodies and antigens in the immune response.

In addition to the topics covered in the course, students may also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the course of Biochemistry include Nobel Prize Laureate Professor Peter Doherty, who is a professor at the University of Melbourne and a world-renowned immunologist. He is a leader in his field, having made groundbreaking discoveries in the understanding of the immune system. He is currently working on the development of vaccines and treatments for infectious diseases, as well as researching the effects of climate change on the immune system.

Other notable alumni from the course of Biochemistry include Professor David J. Craik, a professor at the University of Queensland and a leader in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of protein structure and function, and is currently researching the role of proteins in the development of diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s.

The university offers a number of alumni events and networking opportunities for biochemistry alumni. These include the Biochemistry Alumni Network, which is a platform for alumni to connect with each other and share ideas and experiences. The network also hosts a number of events such as seminars, workshops and networking events. The university also offers an annual Biochemistry Alumni Award, which recognizes the achievements of alumni in their field.

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Biochemistry Personal Statement Example

A personal statement for a biochemistry programme should highlight your passion for the field and the unique experiences and qualities that make you a strong candidate. The following example is provided as a guide. See the biochemistry personal statement example below.

Growing up, I was always drawn to the natural world and the intricacies of how living things function. This curiosity led me to pursue a degree in biochemistry, where I have been able to delve deeper into the molecular mechanisms that drive biological processes.

One of the aspects of biochemistry that I find most fascinating is the way in which small changes at the molecular level can have profound effects on an organism’s health. This understanding is crucial for developing new drugs and treatments, and it’s what motivates me to continue exploring the field.

In addition to my passion for biochemistry, I have also gained valuable experience through internships and research opportunities. I have worked in a laboratory setting, conducting experiments and analyzing data, which has helped me develop important skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking.

My strong work ethic and dedication to my studies have also allowed me to excel academically, earning a 3.9 GPA in my major. I am confident that my passion for biochemistry, combined with my experience and strong academic record, make me a competitive candidate for your programme.

I am excited at the prospect of continuing my education and pursuing a career in biochemistry, and I believe that your programme will provide me with the knowledge and training I need to achieve my goals. Thank you for considering my application.

Biochemistry Personal Statement Writing Tips

• Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs the reader’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of your personal statement.
• Discuss your passion for biochemistry and why you are interested in pursuing a degree in the field. What sparked your interest and what do you find most fascinating about biochemistry?
• Highlight your relevant experiences, such as internships, research opportunities, and relevant coursework. This can include hands-on laboratory experience, as well as any leadership or teamwork skills you may have developed.
• Discuss your academic achievements, such as your GPA and any awards or honours you have received. Be sure to include any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your skills and abilities.
• Conclude your personal statement with a strong statement about why you are an ideal candidate for the programme and how you plan to use your degree to achieve your goals.
• Proofread your personal statement carefully to ensure that it is error-free and well-written. This can help to ensure that your personal statement makes a strong impression on the admissions committee.

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What to include in a Personal Statement

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Personal statement example biochemistry c700.

Submitted by Rovena

Biochemistry C700

Working alongside Dr. Sergio Bertazzo at UCL on the 'formation of biominerals' is what sparked my interest in Biochemistry. We used Raman Spectroscopy to gain information on hard material formed in the body due to an underlying pathology. I found it amazing that a technique that was just a concept in the classroom was brought to life and is put to remarkable use on a day-to-day basis. We explored calcium deposits in breast cancer, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and analysed samples from a range of other diseases in order to gain fundamental data on the formation of the biominerals.

Being a STEM ambassador encouraged me to explore the overlap between my A level subjects: Biology and Chemistry. I was particularly fascinated by the chemical mechanisms for the reactions of proteins given that they form the basis of every single metabolic function in the body. From attending 'The Great Ideas Of Biology' lecture at Imperial College London , I realised that one of the most fundamental ideas related to Biology is 'Life as Chemistry'. Chemistry forms the basis for understanding many biological ideas. For me, the revelation that Chemistry is so pertinent, even in the study of Biology, made me further appreciate the overlap between the sciences and the role they have played in our understanding of the world.

Over summer I completed a work placement with the Mayor of London. As part of this experience, I was given the opportunity to write articles for the Mayor, conduct my own research and analyse demographic data. I also had the opportunity to sit in on meetings such as that with MedCity, where the discussion was centred around developmental plans and investment in research. This experience was useful in developing my understanding of the limitations to scientific research due to the financial constraints businesses face. Despite this, my passion for Biochemistry remains undiminished.

When reading an article in The Biochemist titled '3D- printed synthetic tissues', by Michael Booth and Hagan Bayley I was intrigued by the way 3D printing is being used to create synthetic tissues following specified patterns using water droplets. I realised that all scientific projects face many issues before completion, but through perseverance and creative application of knowledge, solutions can be found. In a similar sense, Booth and Bayley creatively discovered that by externally controlling the synthetic tissue, using light and a combined water droplet network with the LA-DNA, light-activated synthetic tissues could be produced.

As Head Girl, I have many responsibilities: I am the main point of contact between my sixth form peers and the senior management team at school; I lead the senior prefects and ensure they are aware of their obligations; and I also communicate with parents on a regular basis in order to address their concerns. These duties have allowed me to develop transferable skills such as teamwork, time management and communicating professionally. In addition, I regularly volunteer with a local homeless shelter, which motivated me to join the NCS Youth Board, where I worked with other young adults to raise awareness on the issues of youth homelessness. Being involved with this project encouraged me to prioritise my time in order to meet my academic deadlines, as well as integrate with people from different walks of life.

To conclude, I feel that much of the work that a biochemist does is to advance human life and the thought of helping people is what drives me to want to study biochemistry. I like the fact that this field is unpredictable. It is constantly developing and to be at the centre of some cutting-edge research and new innovations excites me. This was further summed up for me during a conversation with the Deputy Mayor. He told me that, "we are currently part of the 'transition generation,' where we always need to be open to what is out there that will be beneficial to the development of the world."

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