Keele University

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry and Neuroscience

Studying Biochemistry and Neuroscience at Keele enables you to develop knowledge and skills in two exciting and compelling scientific subjects.

From unlocking the secrets of the human body to the individually tailored molecular therapies of the future, biochemistry is the study of biological processes at the cellular and molecular level. This is the foundation for understanding all biological processes, including the development and progression of diverse pathologies, across species. It has become the foundation for understanding all biological processes and can provide explanations for the causes of many diseases in humans, animals and plants.

Neuroscience is a vibrant and constantly evolving discipline that explores the brain, from how it enables us to sense and move through our environment, to degeneration in health and in disease. With over 600 types of neurological conditions currently identified (NHS England), understanding how the brain and nervous system work is integral to the future of human health and well-being.

Biochemistry modules cover five core themes: macromolecular structure-function, metabolism and its control, genetics, cell biology and the applications of chemistry in the study of these. The course will give you a broad and varied grounding in modern biochemistry. You will explore the structure and function of biological molecules and metabolic processes, core chemical concepts and their application to the biological sciences and molecular cell biology.

As you advance on the Biochemistry and Neuroscience BSc, you will also expand your practical and analytical skills in a Practical Skills in Bioscience module, including core molecular biology and immunological techniques, as well as in experimental design through conducting a mini-research project, supporting transition to your final year research projects.

You will explore a mixture of core modules in neuroscience that will provide you with a grounding in basic biological techniques, an introduction to the core concepts of the subject and the practical skills required for a career within the field. You will gain a much deeper understanding of neuroscience as you advance through our Biochemistry and Neuroscience degree. Typical topics of study include how the brain develops, the mechanisms underlying learning and memory, how drugs affect the nervous system, the anatomy of the human and animal nervous systems, and how electrical activity in the brain works to control function. You will also expand your research and analytical skills by exploring the different forms of scientific experimental design that you may encounter in your final year experimental projects.

Your final year will include both core and optional modules in biochemistry and neuroscience plus the opportunity to unleash your creativity in your final year research project. Your choice of optional modules can reflect your career aspirations and interests. Core modules will explore what can go wrong in terms of brain injury and disease, the pathology behind this and the most recent research to explore how we can repair the brain following trauma.