This course will learn about the molecular basis of life, and gain valuable laboratory and research skills. You will learn how chemicals combine to create living organisms, and how all life forms function. The University of Reading specialises in the biochemistry of disease, and you will discover how it affects the body at a molecular level, as well as the details of how drugs and other treatments work. You will also have the chance to carry out a year-long industrial placement or a paid vacation studentship in order to gain valuable work and research experience. Through practical work you will learn a wide range of scientific techniques, including DNA manipulation, isolation of bio molecules and live cell microscopy. During your final year you will have the chance to spend 11 weeks working in a lab on a biochemical research project. Past projects have included coronary heart disease, computer analysis of gene clusters, and the structure of transmembrane proteins. Additionally, you will have the chance to develop your skills through our optional biomedical field courses. These normally last around two weeks and take place in locations such as Florida, Iceland and Colombia. You will have the opportunity to carry out a year-long industrial placement between your third and final year. Students in previous years have worked at Diamond Light Source (the UK’s national synchrotron), Public Health England, GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca and Covance. You can also choose to spend a year abroad, typically carrying out research in an academic laboratory. You will have the opportunity to undertake paid vacation studentships funded by organisations such as the Welcome Trust and the Biochemical Society. These can take place over six weeks during the summer break, or be carried out part-time over a longer period. During studentships you will normally work on a set project and benefit from valuable training in techniques, experimental design and the interpretation of data. This course will prepare you for a range of science-related careers, including research, laboratory work, science sales and management, science communication and patenting.