Department of
Biochemistry and Biophysics
9+ Research Areas
Our department is at the forefront of cutting-edge research, delving into the intricate molecular mechanisms that underpin life itself. Our scientists explore diverse scientific problems across the fields of biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, molecular biology, and genomics.
38+ Research-Active Faculty
Our research-active faculty engage in investigating practical applications to address real-world issues, simultaneously striving to push the boundaries of interdisciplinary paradigms and mentor the next generation of biochemical and biophysical scientists.
600+ Enrolled Students
Our undergraduate and graduate students learn both in the classroom and through hands-on research experiences, developing unique skillsets required for success in academia, professional school, or a career in scientific industry.
Recent Publications
- Cytotoxicity of Amyloid 1-42 Fibrils to Brain Immune Cells.
- Spatial propagation of temperate phages within and among biofilms.
- Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Related Compounds Induce Nuclear Receptor 4A1 (NR4A1)-Dependent Carcinogenesis.
- External Validation of Raman Spectroscopy for Lyme Disease Diagnostics.
Department Updates
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Congratulations to Omkar Shinde on being awarded the John Mack Prescott Award
Pictured is Dr. Michael Polymenis Associate Head of Graduate Programs and Graduate Student Omkar Shinde. Congratulation again on your success.
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Congratulations to Joonyoung Shin on being awarded the Paul Barry Gayle TA Laboratory Award
Pictured is Joonyoung Shin. Way to go, on this wonderful accomplishment.
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Congratulations to Rachel Stanfield on being awarded the Paul Barry Gayle TA Lecture Award
Pictured is Dr. Michael Polymenis Associate Head of Graduate Programs, and Graduate Student Rachel Stanfield. Way to go Rachel!
Biochemistry and Biophysics News
Celebrating Dorothy Shippen’s curiosity-driven research career
Like many pivotal discussions in science, Dorothy Shippen’s career-defining moment took place not in the lab, but while socializing after a research conference when her colleague Tom McKnight, Ph.D., asked if she had ever thought about plant telomeres. Shippen will soon be retiring from her position, concluding a celebrated career marked by curiosity, bravery and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists.
How fear fuels fight or flight
Odds are you either love or hate the jittery, stomach-drop feeling of a good scare. And whether you’re one to fight or flee, your body is ready to give you the energy you’ll need. Vishal Gohil, Ph.D., professor in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, said fear triggers the adrenal gland to release adrenaline, a hormone that targets specific organs to help you react quickly.
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