Biochemistry

Education objectives

Biochemistry is a fundamental discipline at the interface between biology, chemistry and biotechnology. It is dedicated to the study of chemical reactions that occur in living organisms, with an emphasis on metabolic processes, the structure and function of biomolecules, and cell signalling pathways.

In addition to a wide range of Biochemistry applied to Biomedicine, Biotechnology, the Environment and Biomaterials, this master''s degree offers specialised training in Molecular Biophysics, Structural Biology and Analytical Biochemistry.

Therefore, this master''s degree strengthens skills in the analysis, characterisation and development of new biochemical technologies and their application in health, the food industry and environmental biotechnology.

The Master''s in Biochemistry is a response to the growing need to train qualified human resources, driven by the recent development of companies in the Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences areas, both in Portugal and in Europe.

Why this Master''s?

• Training in emerging areas of modern biochemistry;
• Multi- and interdisciplinary training, versatile, in tune with the needs of the employer market, in line with a career in scientific research;
• Strong laboratory component with cutting-edge hands-on experience, applying modern techniques, supported by excellent research;
• Hard-skills and transferable-skills: in-depth knowledge in all broad areas of biochemistry, oral presentations, group work and entrepreneurship training;
• Teaching centred on small groups, promoting more personalised learning;
• Integration into research teams to carry out short-term projects;
• The scientific dissertation (1 year) can take place in an academic or business environment.

Career opportunities

• Research and development (R&D) in biochemistry and related areas;
• Clinical, biochemical, microbiological, genetic and environmental analysis laboratories;
• Public health laboratories and medical research institutes;
• Forensic (Bio)Chemistry Laboratories;
• Food, agri-food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries;
• Science management;
• Regulatory bodies and commissions, quality control;
• Auditing, scientific and technological innovation consultancy and design companies;
• Teaching.