Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry

Participation in the Undergraduate Research Program and earning departmental honors not only equips students with the necessary skills for their future careers but also enhances their applications for graduate and medical schools, as well as industry positions.

Participating in the Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Program equips students with a diverse skill set, preparing them for successful careers in biochemistry and empowering them to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancements that address the complex challenges of our society.

Some benefits include:

Hands-on Experience: Actively participating in research while pursuing an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry offers students the invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in conducting cutting-edge research. By actively participating in research projects, students develop practical laboratory skills, learn experimental techniques, and gain a deeper understanding of biochemistry concepts beyond the classroom.

Skill Development: The Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Program equips students with essential skills to thrive in the modern research landscape, which requires technical expertise and proficiency in complex laboratory protocols and cutting-edge technologies. Through hands-on experience in the laboratory, students engage in critical thinking and planning necessary to investigate and tackle health challenges. 

Under the guidance of experienced researchers, students learn to design experiments, collect and analyze data, interpret results, and draw meaningful conclusions. This practical experience strengthens their ability to effectively apply scientific methodologies, providing a solid foundation for future success. Collaborating with seasoned professionals fosters a culture of mentorship, enabling students to develop effective scientific methodologies and analytical thinking. This mentorship enhances students' growth as researchers, nurturing their critical and independent thought.

Networking Opportunities: The program facilitates collaboration and networking among students, faculty members. Postdoctoral and graduate student researchers and industry professionals. Students work closely with experienced researchers, allowing them to establish meaningful connections within the broader scientific community at UNM Health Science center. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, recommendation letters, and even potential future collaborations and/or job prospects.

Professional Growth: Participating in undergraduate research demonstrates a student's commitment to academic excellence and scientific inquiry, enhancing their resume and strengthening applications for graduate school, medical school, related allied health programs, education, and industry positions. Engaging in research allows students to showcase their independent work, critical thinking skills, and contributions to advancing biomedical knowledge through effective communication of their research findings.

Personal Development: The Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Program offers a transformative experience for students, fostering personal growth and self-confidence. Engaging in original research allows students to explore their interests, develop their own scientific questions, and contribute to the scientific community. It nurtures curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong passion for learning.

Mentorship and Guidance: Students in the program benefit from the mentorship and guidance of experienced faculty members who are passionate about biochemistry and biomedical research. These mentors provide individualized attention, share their expertise, and offer valuable insights into the research process. Their guidance helps students develop research skills, refine their scientific thinking, and overcome challenges they may encounter.

Publication and Presentation Opportunities: Contributing to research projects opens doors for students to publish in scientific journals and present at conferences or meetings. These opportunities not only lend credibility to students' research achievements but also increase their visibility within the scientific community and among School of Medicine faculty.

Contribution to Scientific Knowledge: Participating in undergraduate research provides students with the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to scientific knowledge within the respective fields of their mentor's laboratory. Through their research findings, students may uncover new insights, propose solutions to existing challenges, or contribute to advancements in basic sciences, healthcare, biotechnology, and other relevant domains.

Minimum requirements to begin process:

• Enrollment as a student at UNM: Students must be enrolled at the University of New Mexico (UNM) and can participate in the program at any stage of their undergraduate studies, from freshman to senior year. We strongly recommend starting as early as possible to maximize your research experience.

• Pursuing an Undergraduate Major in Biochemistry: Students must be actively pursuing an undergraduate major in Biochemistry.

• Finding a Mentor/Laboratory: Finding a research mentor is a crucial first step in participating in the program. Dr. Hines and other Biochemistry faculty members are available to assist you in identifying potential mentors and connecting you with suitable research laboratories.

• (optional) Academic Credit for Research Experience: Students have the option to obtain academic credit for their research experience by enrolling in Bioc499, a variable credit Pass/Fail course. The program director, in consultation with your mentor, assigns a grade based on the laboratory work performed in your research mentor's laboratory. There are no additional requirements beyond the research work. If interested, contact Dr. Hines for the necessary paperwork.

• Contact the Program Director: Inform them that you are pursuing research honors. They will add you to an email distribution list that connects you with other biochemistry students and keeps you informed about research-related activities.

Requirements to graduate with departmental honors

• Overall grade point average of 3.20
• Six credit hours of honors research (BIOC 497 and BIOC 498) and preform mentored research
• In your final semester:
  • Submit a senior thesis on your Honors research project
  • Oral presentation (10 – 15 minutes) on your honors research project at BMB Research Day.

1. Contact Dr. Hines ( WCHines@salud.unm.edu ), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Begin by reaching out to Dr. Hines, the Program Director, to express your interest in participating in the Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Program. Dr. Hines will provide guidance and support throughout the process.

2. Identify a mentor: Hines will assist you in identifying a suitable research mentor who aligns with your research interests. Collaborating with a mentor is a vital component of the program, and they will guide you through your research experience during your undergraduate years.

To be in the biochemistry honors program, your mentor and laboratory doesn’t need to be in the biochemistry department. Past students have joined laboratories in Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Cell Biology, Neurosciences, Pathology, Internal Medicine, and more! 

To begin your exploration of exciting research opportunities and view some of the potential mentors available, use the following links.

UNM BSGP Mentor Resource

UNMCCC Research Program

3. Enroll in Bioc 499 or Bioc 497, as needed:Depending on your academic year, you may need to enroll in either Bioc 499 or Bioc 497 to obtain academic credit for your research experience. Dr. Hines can provide guidance on which course is appropriate for your specific situation.

4. Fill out the student/mentor sheet:Once you have contacted Dr. Hines will provide you with a student/mentor sheet to be filled out. This sheet captures important information about your research project and serves as a formal record of your involvement in the program.