Course Offered:

• MBiochem Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular

Current Fellows and Lecturers

Dr Ben Berks (Tutorial Fellow)
Professor Stephen Bell (Professorial Fellow)
Dr David Staunton (Lecturer)

Admissions
On average four students are admitted each year to read Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry at Wadham. It is essential that applicants have a good knowledge and understanding of chemistry as well as some aptitude for mathematics. Applications from people who have studied uncommon combinations of subjects are welcome (but they must include A-Level Chemistry or the equivalent). 

The Course
Details of the scope of the Oxford Biochemistry course and the organisation of university examinations are given on the Department website and in the University Prospectus.

Teaching Structure
Undergraduates participate in one tutorial per week. A tutorial usually consists of discussion of the undergraduate's essay together with development of the set subject. In the fourth year the pattern changes and the tutor discusses the research topic being undertaken for Part II.

The Tutors
The Senior Biochemistry Tutor is Dr Ben Berks whose research interests are protein transport, microbial energy metabolism, bacterial cell biology and membrane protein structure/function.  Additional specialist teaching is provided by Dr David Staunton and experts from outside the College.

Student Profile

Bhavna Gupta

I was initially attracted to Biochemistry at Oxford due to its
academic and research reputation as well as the unique tutorial system.  I attended the departmental open day where I was in awe of the impressive facilities available, and pleasantly surprised at the friendliness of the undergraduate guides.  On application, Wadham sprung to mind as my preferred choice of college due to the relaxed and informal atmosphere during the college open day as well as its proximity to the Biochemistry department!

Before arriving, I expected the course to be challenging but also intellectually stimulating, and I have not been disappointed.  Research at Oxford is flourishing, so being taught by the leaders in the field really keeps our course at the cutting-edge with new discoveries mentioned nearly every day in lectures.  The structure of the course aims to give undergraduates a strong general grounding in all aspects of biochemistry for the first three years, with regular tutorials and lab practicals culminating in final examinations.  The fourth year is intended to increase awareness of life in research, with all undergraduates undertaking a 12 week laboratory project either in Oxford or abroad, followed by an extended essay and two examinations in specialist options.

My experience at Wadham has been unforgettable, and although balancing work and play is sometimes tricky, the college helps by providing a strong student support system and encouraging a thriving social scene!  I have been able to get involved with a number of activities which include a position with the University newspaper, being vice-president of the Wadham Student’s Union and playing college cricket, tennis and even darts!