The biochemistry major is designed to equip students with a broad, quantitative understanding of the chemical and molecular principles governing biological processes. The biochemistry concentration provides a foundation for careers in medicine, biotechnology, or research in all branches of the biological sciences.The general aim of the concentration is to ensure that after first obtaining a solid background in physics and chemistry, students use these basics to engage with the molecules underlying all life-processes. The major also offers a variety of courses in more specialized subjects such as molecular genetics, X-ray crystallography, and physical biochemistry. These courses cover a range of subjects that follow the edge of current discovery in the behaviors of proteins, nucleic acids, and bio-membrane assemblies.