Research in the Department of Biochemistry encompasses very diverse questions and uses a wide variety of approaches, experimental systems, and techniques. Nevertheless, what bonds us is an interest in understanding fundamental biological questions at the level of how molecules act and interact to accomplish highly complex, intra- and intercellular processes.

Our diversity enriches our intellectual environment and provides an incredibly broad spectrum of expertise that benefits all of us, as we tackle a wide variety of important questions. All of us study molecules: we use and advance physical techniques such as spectroscopy, laser light traps and crystallography, cell biological techniques such as light microscopy and cell fractionation, biochemical techniques such as enzyme purification and high throughput cross-linking/mapping, and computational techniques including machine learning, interactive simulation, and crowdsourcing, along with cutting edge molecular biological techniques and genetics. By attacking problems using these complementary approaches, we are best suited to pave the way towards solving the questions at hand. Many of the techniques invented here, including genetic engineering and high-throughput RNA expression analysis, are fueling current advances in biotechnology and medicine.

Two features about our Department are especially noteworthy. First, we share all of our space and major equipment. Thus, students and postdocs from different groups are intermixed. This enhances interactions at all levels and guarantees equality in terms of access to all resources and equipment. Second, we work hard to maintain a collegial, cooperative and supportive environment. All faculty are engaged in the operation and mission of the Department and share and uphold philosophies of operation and community spirit that we hold dear.