Chemistry for the Biosciences introduces the essential concepts of chemistry central to understanding biological systems. With an emphasis on straightforward explanations, it features biological examples that illustrate how integral chemistry is to the biosciences, and includes learning features to help students master the essentials.
Engineering is the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes. Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties, and how it interacts and changes. Biosciences encompass the study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental laws of the universe.
This can vary depending on location and current market demand, but generally engineering has the most job opportunities due to its wide range of applications in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and technology.
Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills are essential for all of these fields. In engineering, technical skills such as computer-aided design (CAD) and project management are also important. Chemistry requires strong analytical and laboratory skills, while biosciences require knowledge of biology and research techniques. Physics relies heavily on mathematical and computational skills.
Again, this can vary depending on location and industry, but in general, engineering and physics have higher earning potential compared to chemistry and biosciences. This is due to the demand for highly skilled professionals in these fields and their applications in industries such as aerospace, energy, and technology.
While it is possible to switch between these fields, it may require additional education or training depending on the specific career path. For example, switching from engineering to chemistry may require further coursework in chemistry or obtaining a degree in chemistry. However, there is often overlap between these fields, so it is possible to transition with some additional effort and dedication.
A degree in quantitative biosciences and engineering will explore the interface between biology and mathematics, computer sciences, physics and chemistry. These studies will proved the necessary background needed for careers in bioenergy, biomaterials, bioengineering, biomechanics, biomedical, bioenvironmental and biophysical engineering. The QBE program will prepare a new generation of researchers for quantitative challenges, new discoveries and fulfilling careers at the interface of the physical, mathematical, computational, chemical and biological sciences.
As an emerging, interdisciplinary field, students have an array of professional career paths upon graduation. While some students may choose to obtain a position in quantitative biosciences in business or government positions, many may also choose to continue their education and pursue graduate school.
Rounding out our core curriculum, our QBE undergraduate program includes diverse electives designed to support and encourage student interests in particular fields of biology. These may include pre-med, systems, ecology and more.
Dr. John Spear, a professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering, teaches courses in our QBE program and the McBride Honors Program. With decades of research experience, Dr. Spear currently focuses on the study of microbes and the emerging field of Geobiology.
Dr. Spear is an advocate for including both undergraduate and graduate students in his research and provides his students with hands-on research opportunities. A distinguished professor and researcher, Dr. Spear has received numerous honors and awards, including the Martin Luther King Award for Diversity and Inclusion and multiple Faculty of the Year awards for CEE from the Senior Class.
The minor in Biochemistry and Cell Biology is intended for those with an interest in the life sciences but who may be majoring in other areas. This minor incorporates many of the life science core courses required for the health professions.
Lecture courses are noted in Rice's Course Catalog with a course type of "lecture". These courses do not include courses listed with a course type of "lecture/laboratory". For further details on course types, please see course descriptions.
Rice University policies are governed primarily by the General Announcements; students are encouraged to look there first for academic policies. Advising information specific to the Department of BioSciences can be found by clicking on the Undergraduate Program tab on the department website.
Research is highly encouraged for all biosciences majors, and there are many opportunities for independent research at Rice. Information about research for credit and research internships specific to the Department of BioSciences can be found by clicking on the Research tab on the department website.
27th May 2024: Abstract submission is now closed. We are reviewing abstracts and will be in touch with delegates shortly. However, there is still time to register to attend the symposium until the 9th of June!
Please join us for our seventeenth annual meeting exploring the chemistry and biology of natural products covering subjects from synthetic chemistry to microbial genetics. The 2024 edition will be held at the University of Warwick on 4-5 July. This meeting is kindly sponsored by UKRILink opens in a new window, the Royal Society of Chemistry Chemical Biology and Bioorganic GroupLink opens in a new window and Alta BioscienceLink opens in a new window.
This year's keynote lectures will be delivered by Dr Lauren MurrayLink opens in a new window (Monash University) and Dr Katherine WilliamsLink opens in a new window (University of the West of England).
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