Department of Biochemistry

Chair's Welcome

Welcome to the Department of Biochemistry at the University of California, Riverside. We are dedicated to performing cutting-edge research in biochemistry and molecular biology, as well as striving toward excellence in undergraduate and graduate education. 

Our faculty pursue research areas spanning structural biology, genomics, stem cell and developmental biology, biophysics, cancer biology, plant biology, and biochemistry education. The department has substantial strength in areas of transcriptional and translational control, epigenetic regulation, RNA biology, chromatin biology, genetic engineering, enzymology, genome stability, metabolomics, and environmental stress responses, providing our graduate students ample opportunities to pursue their research interests. A strong dedication to interdepartmental collaboration and cooperation among faculty also allows our graduate students to join research teams across the College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences, Bourns School of Engineering, and the UCR School of Medicine, and perform research in a highly integrative and interactive setting.

Our Biochemistry undergraduate major attracts a large number of students, who can choose between an emphasis in chemistry, biology, or medical sciences. Our students benefit from having our world-class faculty teach in the classroom, exposing them to both the fundamental principles and the latest research discoveries. In addition, UC Riverside offers various competitive research programs aimed toward economically disadvantaged students. A high percentage of our undergraduates find that they qualify for student aid covering up to their entire tuition—because we believe that financial burdens should not bar anyone from seeking higher education.

I hope that this website will serve as a helpful resource for potential or current students, staff, visiting scholars, and donors. -- Xuan Liu, Biochemistry Chair