Biological Chemistry Research
A biochemistry researcher examines a specimen in the lab

Asking and Answering Fundamental Questions

We explore biological phenomena at the molecular and mechanistic levels to make discoveries about life and health.

Understanding the Foundations of Life

Scientists in the Department of Biological Chemistry integrate many technologies and approaches to study the molecular processes that are the foundation for life and health. Research projects can be grouped into the four broad areas of Biochemical Signaling, Macromolecular Structure & Mechanism, Protein Processing & Folding and Regulation of Gene Expression.

Close ties and cross-appointments with the Life Sciences Institute, the Center for RNA Biomedicine, the Michigan Neuroscience Institute, the Chemical Biology Program, and the LSA departments of Biology, Biophysics, and Chemistry place Biological Chemistry at the center of the University of Michigan's strong biochemical community. 

Our interdisciplinary research into the molecular mechanisms of life offers a wide variety of investigative opportunities to students, fellows, and scientific collaborators.

Research Areas
man using pipette in laboratory
Biochemical Signaling

Probe how cells respond to changes in their environment.

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Macromolecular Structure & Mechanism

Focus in on how biological macromolecules function at the molecular and atomic level.

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woman in a laboratory is leaned over while operating a microscope
Protein Processing & Folding

Understanding the folding, translocation, and processing of proteins is integral to modern molecular and cell biology.

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Regulation of Gene Expression

Use and develop groundbreaking research techniques to uncover the mechanisms that govern gene expression.

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Biological Chemistry News & Stories See all news CureSearch logo
Department News
John Prensner, MD, PhD, receives a Young Investigator Award from CureSearch for Children's Cancer
Assistant Professor John Prensner of the Departments of Pediatrics and Biological Chemistry at U-M Medical School is the recipient of funding from CureSearch for Children's Cancer.
headshot of Alexi Chabez
Department News
PhD student Alexi Chabez receives a predoctoral fellowship from the National Institutes of Health
U-M Biological Chemistry PhD student Alexi Chabez of the Scott lab receives a predoctoral fellowship.
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.