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B-SC in Biochemistry at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University)
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Biochemistry at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University) Chengalpattu?
This B.Sc Biochemistry program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on the chemical processes within living organisms, bridging biology and chemistry. It delves into the molecular basis of life, disease, and health. In India, with its rapidly expanding pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and healthcare sectors, the demand for skilled biochemists is consistently high, contributing significantly to research and development across various industries.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics who are keen to explore the intricacies of biological systems at a molecular level. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in healthcare diagnostics, pharmaceutical research, food science, or environmental analysis, providing a robust scientific base for advanced studies or immediate entry into diverse Indian industries.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in sectors like pharmaceuticals, clinical research, diagnostics, food processing, and environmental agencies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, growing significantly with experience to 6-10 LPA and beyond. The program prepares students for roles as research assistants, lab technicians, medical coders, or quality control analysts in leading Indian and multinational companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Chemistry and Biology Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus rigorously on understanding core concepts in General Chemistry, General Biochemistry, and Cell Biology. Utilize online resources like Khan Academy, NPTEL videos, and textbook problems to solidify basic principles, especially pH, thermodynamics, and biomolecule structures. Participate actively in labs to master basic analytical techniques and data interpretation, building a robust scientific base.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry, Voet & Voet Biochemistry, Standard Organic/Inorganic Chemistry textbooks
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for excelling in advanced subjects like Metabolism, Molecular Biology, and Clinical Biochemistry, which are directly relevant to R&D, diagnostics, and pharmaceutical careers in India.
Develop Effective Study Habits and Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, solve problems collaboratively, and prepare for continuous assessment tests. Practice active recall and spaced repetition techniques. Maintain detailed lab notebooks and seek clarification from professors during office hours for any doubts, fostering a deeper understanding of the curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Professor office hours, Library resources, Online flashcard tools (e.g., Anki)
Career Connection
Collaborative learning hones teamwork and communication skills, essential for research environments, while effective study habits ensure strong academic performance, which is often a key criterion for internships and placements in India.
Engage in Early Skill Building & Soft Skills Enhancement- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in the Project-Based Learning modules to develop problem-solving and presentation skills. Focus on the LSRW Skills and English for Professional Communication courses to improve language proficiency and communication abilities. Attend workshops on scientific writing and basic data analysis tools, preparing for professional interactions.
Tools & Resources
Project mentors, Language labs, Communication workshops, Basic MS Office suite
Career Connection
Strong communication and presentation skills are vital for conveying scientific findings, securing internships, and performing well in job interviews within the Indian job market, setting a strong professional tone early.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Theoretical Knowledge through Advanced Labs- (Semester 3-5)
Emphasize hands-on learning in Metabolism II Lab, Molecular Biology Lab, and Immunology Lab. Strive to understand the ''''why'''' behind each experimental procedure, troubleshoot issues, and interpret results critically. Seek opportunities to work on small independent projects within the lab under faculty guidance, building practical expertise.
Tools & Resources
Advanced lab equipment, Research papers and journals, Lab manuals, Faculty guidance
Career Connection
Proficiency in advanced lab techniques (PCR, ELISA, chromatography) is highly valued by diagnostic labs, biotech companies, and pharmaceutical research institutions in India, leading to specialized job roles.
Gain Industry Exposure and Network Actively- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek out and complete internships or in-plant training experiences mentioned in the curriculum. Attend industry seminars, guest lectures, and career fairs organized by the institution or external bodies. Connect with alumni and professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to understand industry trends and job roles, expanding your professional circle.
Tools & Resources
Institution''''s placement cell, LinkedIn, Industry conferences and webinars, Company websites
Career Connection
Internships provide real-world experience and networking opportunities, significantly improving placement chances in the competitive Indian job market. Building a professional network opens doors to mentorship and future career prospects.
Specialize through Electives and Competition Participation- (Semester 5)
Thoughtfully choose electives in areas like Bioinformatics, Genetic Engineering, or Food Biochemistry based on individual career interests. Participate in inter-college biochemical quizzes, poster presentations, or scientific paper competitions to showcase knowledge and analytical skills. Start preparing for competitive exams relevant to higher education (e.g., GATE Biotechnology, JAM).
Tools & Resources
Elective course materials, Scientific journals, Competitive exam preparation guides, Online coding platforms for bioinformatics
Career Connection
Specialization through electives makes you a more attractive candidate for specific industry roles or for pursuing higher studies in a focused area. Competition exposure builds confidence and demonstrates initiative, valuable traits for employers.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Quality Project Work/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant effort to the final year project work or dissertation. Choose a topic that aligns with your career aspirations, conduct a thorough literature review, meticulously design and execute experiments, and present findings clearly in a scientific report and oral defense, demonstrating independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Research labs and faculty mentors, Library databases (PubMed, Scopus), Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS), Presentation tools
Career Connection
A well-executed project is a strong credential for academic and industry roles, demonstrating research aptitude, critical thinking, and independent work skills, which are highly sought after by Indian R&D sectors and for postgraduate studies.
Master Advanced Instrumentation & Data Analysis- (Semester 6)
Pay close attention to advanced courses like Biotechnology and Research Methodology & Biostatistics. Aim to gain hands-on proficiency with sophisticated biochemical instruments and master statistical software for data analysis. Practice interpreting complex data sets and drawing sound conclusions, preparing for data-driven scientific roles.
Tools & Resources
Advanced lab instruments (e.g., HPLC, GC-MS, Flow Cytometer), Statistical software (R, SPSS, Python libraries), Data analysis workshops, Online tutorials for instrumental techniques
Career Connection
Expertise in advanced instrumentation and biostatistics is crucial for roles in quality control, analytical chemistry, clinical research, and data science within the Indian healthcare, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries.
Focus on Career Planning and Placement Preparation- (Semester 6)
Actively engage with the college''''s placement cell. Prepare a professional resume and cover letter tailored to biochemistry roles. Practice mock interviews, group discussions, and aptitude tests to build confidence and refine responses. Explore diverse career paths including higher studies (M.Sc, PhD), industrial research, diagnostics, or teaching, and plan your next steps.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Career counselors, Online aptitude test platforms, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Thorough preparation for placements significantly increases the likelihood of securing desirable job offers from top companies in India, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to the professional world and setting a clear career trajectory.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in H.Sc. (10+2) or equivalent examination with a minimum aggregate of 50% in Biology/Botany and Zoology, Physics and Chemistry or equivalent examination.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BSCH101J | GENERAL CHEMISTRY I | Core | 3 | Atomic structure and periodicity, Chemical bonding principles, s-block and p-block elements, Basic concepts of solutions, Colloidal chemistry |
| 22BSCH102L | GENERAL CHEMISTRY I LAB | Lab | 2 | Volumetric analysis (acid-base, redox), Inorganic qualitative analysis, Titration techniques, Basic laboratory safety, Preparation of standard solutions |
| 22BSCB101J | GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY | Core | 3 | Water, pH, and biological buffers, Structure and function of amino acids and proteins, Carbohydrates classification and properties, Lipid types and their roles, Nucleic acids structure and function |
| 22BSCB102L | GENERAL BIOCHEMISTRY LAB | Lab | 2 | Qualitative tests for biomolecules, Quantitative estimation of carbohydrates, Quantitative estimation of proteins, Spectrophotometric methods, Preparation of biochemical reagents |
| 22BSCB103T | ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and biodiversity, Natural resources management, Environmental pollution (air, water, soil), Waste management principles, Environmental ethics and policies |
| 22BSCB104L | ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE LAB | Lab | 1 | Water quality parameters analysis, Soil analysis techniques, Air pollution monitoring methods, Microbial analysis in environment, Environmental sampling |
| 22LASC101L | LSRW SKILLS | Soft Skill | 2 | Listening comprehension strategies, Effective speaking and pronunciation, Reading comprehension and critical analysis, Basic writing skills and grammar, Communication barriers and overcoming them |
| 22VBSC101T | VALUE EDUCATION | Value Added | 2 | Human values and ethics, Social responsibility, Spiritual and moral development, Professional integrity, Personal values and self-development |
| 22BSCB105P | PROJECT-BASED LEARNING | Project | 3 | Problem identification and definition, Literature review techniques, Experimental design principles, Data collection and basic analysis, Scientific report writing and presentation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BSCH201J | GENERAL CHEMISTRY II | Core | 3 | Chemical kinetics and reaction rates, Thermodynamics principles, Electrochemistry concepts, Coordination compounds, Organic reaction mechanisms |
| 22BSCH202L | GENERAL CHEMISTRY II LAB | Lab | 2 | Organic qualitative analysis, Synthesis of organic compounds, Physical chemistry experiments (e.g., kinetics), Spectroscopic identification of compounds, Chromatographic techniques |
| 22BSCB201J | METABOLISM I | Core | 3 | Glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, Tricarboxylic Acid (TCA) cycle, Electron transport chain, Oxidative phosphorylation, Glycogen metabolism |
| 22BSCB202L | METABOLISM I LAB | Lab | 2 | Enzyme kinetics determination, Estimation of enzyme activity, Paper and thin-layer chromatography, Separation of biomolecules, Metabolic pathway intermediates detection |
| 22BSCB203T | CELL BIOLOGY | Core | 3 | Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure, Functions of cellular organelles, Cell cycle and its regulation, Mitosis and meiosis processes, Cell signaling pathways |
| 22BSCB204L | CELL BIOLOGY LAB | Lab | 1 | Microscopic techniques and cell observation, Cell staining methods, Cell counting and viability assays, Isolation of cellular organelles, Microbial culturing techniques |
| 22LASC201L | ENGLISH FOR PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION | Soft Skill | 2 | Business correspondence and email etiquette, Presentation skills and public speaking, Technical report writing, Resume building and interview skills, Group discussion strategies |
| 22VBSC201T | GENDER SENSITIVITY | Value Added | 2 | Understanding gender roles and stereotypes, Gender equality and equity, Feminism and women''''s empowerment, Gender-based violence and harassment, Inclusivity and diversity in society |
| 22BSCB205P | INTERNSHIP/IN-PLANT TRAINING | Project | 2 | Industry exposure and practical application, Skill development in a professional setting, Observation of industrial processes, Report writing on internship experience, Presentation of learning outcomes |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BSCB301J | METABOLISM II | Core | 3 | Lipid metabolism (synthesis and breakdown), Amino acid metabolism and urea cycle, Nucleic acid metabolism (purine, pyrimidine), Integration of metabolic pathways, Regulation of major metabolic pathways |
| 22BSCB302L | METABOLISM II LAB | Lab | 2 | Estimation of lipids (e.g., cholesterol), Estimation of amino acids, Estimation of nucleic acids, Enzyme assays related to metabolism, Electrophoretic separation of proteins |
| 22BSCB303J | MOLECULAR BIOLOGY | Core | 3 | DNA replication mechanisms, Transcription: RNA synthesis, Translation: Protein synthesis, Regulation of gene expression, Genetic code and mutations |
| 22BSCB304L | MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LAB | Lab | 2 | DNA extraction and quantification, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Agarose gel electrophoresis, Restriction digestion of DNA, Basic molecular cloning principles |
| 22BSCB305J | IMMUNOLOGY | Core | 3 | Components of the immune system, Antigens and antibodies, Humoral and cell-mediated immunity, Hypersensitivity reactions, Autoimmunity and immunodeficiency |
| 22BSCB306L | IMMUNOLOGY LAB | Lab | 1 | Blood grouping techniques, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Immunoelectrophoresis, Agglutination and precipitation tests, Isolation of immune cells |
| 22BSCB307T | BIOMOLECULAR TECHNIQUES | Core | 3 | Spectroscopic methods (UV-Vis, Fluorescence), Chromatographic separation techniques, Electrophoretic principles, Centrifugation methods, Microscopy in biological studies |
| 22BSCB308L | BIOMOLECULAR TECHNIQUES LAB | Lab | 2 | Spectrophotometer operation, Column and paper chromatography, SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, Centrifugation of biological samples, Fluorescence microscopy techniques |
| 22HSSC01J | CONSTITUTION OF INDIA | Humanities | 1 | Preamble and fundamental rights, Directive principles of state policy, Structure of Union and State Government, Amendments to the constitution, Role of judiciary |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BSCB401J | MICROBIOLOGY | Core | 3 | Microbial diversity and classification, Bacterial growth and nutrition, Microbial genetics and recombination, Pathogenic microorganisms, Antimicrobial agents and resistance |
| 22BSCB402L | MICROBIOLOGY LAB | Lab | 2 | Sterilization and disinfection techniques, Bacterial culture and isolation, Gram staining and other staining methods, Antibiotic sensitivity testing, Microbial enumeration |
| 22BSCB403J | PHYSIOLOGY | Core | 3 | Digestive and respiratory systems, Circulatory and excretory systems, Nervous and endocrine systems, Homeostasis and body fluid regulation, Muscle physiology |
| 22BSCB404L | PHYSIOLOGY LAB | Lab | 2 | Haematology experiments (blood cell counts), Urine analysis and kidney function, Physiological measurements (BP, pulse rate), Respiratory volume measurement, Experimental animal handling principles |
| 22BSCB405J | GENETICS | Core | 3 | Mendelian principles of inheritance, Gene interactions and epistasis, Human genetics and pedigree analysis, Population genetics, Chromosomal aberrations and genetic disorders |
| 22BSCB406L | GENETICS LAB | Lab | 1 | Karyotyping techniques, Pedigree chart construction and analysis, Genetic problem solving, DNA fingerprinting principles, Microscopic observation of chromosomes |
| 22BSCB407J | INSTRUMENTATION IN BIOCHEMISTRY | Core | 3 | Advanced spectrophotometry (HPLC, GC), Mass spectrometry principles, Flow cytometry and cell sorting, Radioisotope techniques, Biosensors and their applications |
| 22BSCB408L | INSTRUMENTATION IN BIOCHEMISTRY LAB | Lab | 2 | Operation of advanced spectrophotometers, Chromatographic system operation, Electrophoresis techniques (2D-PAGE), Basic principles of mass spectrometry operation, Data analysis from instrumental outputs |
| 22FRES02J | ETHICS & VALUES | AEC | 1 | Ethical theories and moral principles, Professional ethics in science, Bioethics and medical ethics, Environmental ethics, Values in research and innovation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BSCB501J | CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY | Core | 4 | Liver and kidney function tests, Cardiac markers and diagnostic enzymology, Diabetes mellitus diagnosis and management, Thyroid function assessment, Fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance |
| 22BSCB502L | CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY LAB | Lab | 2 | Estimation of blood glucose, Liver enzyme assays (ALT, AST), Kidney function tests (creatinine, urea), Lipid profile estimation, Electrolyte analysis |
| 22BSCB503J | PHARMACOLOGY | Core | 4 | Principles of drug action, Pharmacokinetics (ADME), Pharmacodynamics and drug receptors, Classification of drugs, Toxicology and drug adverse effects |
| 22BSCB504L | PHARMACOLOGY LAB | Lab | 2 | Drug dosage calculations, Drug interaction studies, Principles of animal handling in pharmacology, Biochemical effects of common drugs, Drug solubility and dissolution tests |
| 22BSCB505E1 | FOOD BIOCHEMISTRY (Elective I - Option 1) | Elective | 3 | Composition of various foods, Food additives and their functions, Biochemical changes during food processing, Food spoilage and preservation techniques, Nutritional biochemistry of food components |
| 22BSCB505E2 | PLANT BIOCHEMISTRY (Elective I - Option 2) | Elective | 3 | Photosynthesis and carbon fixation, Plant secondary metabolites, Plant hormones and their roles, Plant stress physiology, Principles of plant tissue culture |
| 22BSCB506E1 | BIOINFORMATICS (Elective II - Option 1) | Elective | 3 | Biological databases (NCBI, UniProt), Sequence alignment algorithms, Phylogenetic analysis, Drug discovery and design using bioinformatics, Proteomics and functional genomics |
| 22BSCB506E2 | GENETIC ENGINEERING (Elective II - Option 2) | Elective | 3 | Recombinant DNA technology, Gene cloning techniques, Gene therapy applications, CRISPR-Cas9 technology, Ethical considerations in genetic engineering |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BSCB601J | BIOTECHNOLOGY | Core | 4 | Microbial biotechnology applications, Plant biotechnology techniques, Animal biotechnology and genetic modification, Environmental biotechnology for remediation, Industrial biotechnology and bioproducts |
| 22BSCB602L | BIOTECHNOLOGY LAB | Lab | 2 | Fermentation techniques, Mammalian cell culture methods, Analysis of microbial products, Recombinant protein expression, Biofuel production methods |
| 22BSCB603T | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY & BIOSTATISTICS | Core | 3 | Principles of research design, Data collection methods and sampling, Hypothesis testing and p-values, Statistical tests (t-test, ANOVA), Scientific writing and publication ethics |
| 22BSCB604P | PROJECT WORK / DISSERTATION | Project | 6 | Extensive literature review, Detailed experimental design, Advanced data analysis and interpretation, Scientific report writing, Oral presentation and defense |
| 22BSCB605E1 | INDUSTRIAL BIOCHEMISTRY (Elective III - Option 1) | Elective | 3 | Fermentation technology and bioprocesses, Enzyme technology in industry, Bioprocess engineering principles, Waste management and bioremediation, Quality control in biochemical industries |
| 22BSCB605E2 | NUTRITIONAL BIOCHEMISTRY (Elective III - Option 2) | Elective | 3 | Macronutrients and their metabolism, Micronutrients, vitamins, and minerals, Dietary guidelines and balanced nutrition, Malnutrition and nutritional disorders, Principles of dietetics |
| 22BSCB606E1 | CANCER BIOLOGY (Elective IV - Option 1) | Elective | 3 | Molecular basis of carcinogenesis, Oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, Cancer diagnostics and biomarkers, Cancer therapies (chemo, radio, immuno), Epidemiology of cancer |
| 22BSCB606E2 | NEUROBIOCHEMISTRY (Elective IV - Option 2) | Elective | 3 | Neurotransmitters and synaptic transmission, Biochemistry of neurodegenerative diseases, Neuropharmacology and drug targets, Brain metabolism and energy, Neural signaling pathways |
