The Biochemistry (BS) major is an interdisciplinary program with foundational studies in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Mathematics. This major is ideal for students with interest in pursuing graduate studies in biochemistry or related fields such as drug development; pursuing careers or graduate studies in medical, dental, veterinary, or related fields; or pursuing a career in research or laboratory work.
Our alumni include the co-discoverer of vitamin B12 and many successful doctors, physician assistants/associates (PAs), nurses, dentists, physical therapists, veterinarians, pharmacists, researchers, botanists, zoologists, professors, and scientists. Graduates enjoy a high placement rate into graduate school, and many undergraduates get a head start on their research careers through grant-funded faculty-student research programs such as INBRE (IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence) and SWITCH (Southwest Idaho: The Comprehensive Herbaria).
Dr. Anna Himler (Biology) and Dr. Chris Walser (Biology) connect classroom work to real-world experiences in the field by taking College of Idaho students to Baja California, Mexico and introducing them to its natural history and supporting the students own independent research.
Delaney Reed ’23, a chemistry and biology double-major, talks about how her time at the College made her a better person.
In 2023, Kris Komori ’05 became the first Idaho chef to win a James Beard Award (often referred to as the Oscars of the culinary world). “Who in this room thought someone from Idaho would be up here?” Komori asked the audience during his acceptance speech. “I didn’t, that’s for sure.”
B.S. in Biology with minors in Chemistry and History. Co-Owner, KIN, and Idaho’s First James Beard Award Winner (2023).
In my freshman year, Dr. Carolyn Dadabay reached out to me to work in her biochemistry lab and begin my research career. In her lab, I did graduate level research on sagebrush biochemistry for nearly two years, quickly learning what it takes to do research and grow my passion for it. Through faculty mentorship, I was able to receive the Goldwater Scholarship, establishing myself nationally as a student researcher ready for graduate school.
B.A. in Chemistry and Mathematics-Physics with minors in Music and Criminal Justice Studies. The College’s 3rd Goldwater Scholar.
Follow your passions and your curiosity; enjoy the diversity of things you get to learn in this space. You will meet peers that you continue to enjoy knowing as you develop beyond undergrad. All of these pieces will lead you places you didn't know you'd want to go when you first arrived.
B.A. in Psychology with minors in Chemistry & Biochemistry, Scientific Computing and Theatre.
Doing biomedical research concerning a relevant and important danger to youth health, vaping, brought the real-world applications of college to my fingertips. Working for Stanley’s Salmon River Clinic and ambulance service has given me an amazing hands-on experience with rural medicine. And, working as a lead ambassador has allowed me to help other students find this gem of a school.
B.A. in Biomedical Science with minors in Chemistry, Philosophy and Psychology and a specialization in Pre-Med.
In a recent interview, Liz Trenkel ’17 said: “After obtaining my degree in Biology in college, I knew I was interested in helping people in a more behind-the-scenes way than the traditional physician or patient-facing career path…. Knowing that I can help create expanded patient access to medications for people in small, rural communities like the one I grew up in is my favorite part of my job.”
B.S. in Biology with minors in Art & Design, Business and Psychology. Senior Compliance Specialist for RPh Innovations.
Your innovative spirit has propelled you this far. What’s next? That’s for you to dream, make, live and unleash at The College of Idaho. Come see what awaits you here.