Chemistry and Biochemistry

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About the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department

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Chemistry is a fundamental part of life. Everything around us is made from chemical compounds, and an understanding of chemistry is a foundation for understanding how our world works. The demand for chemical scientists is unwavering, and the career opportunities are diverse, including product research and development, health care and public health, environmental protection, quality assurance and manufacturing.

NJCU’s Chemistry and Biochemistry Department provides an inclusive and equitable education and study environment to prepare students for success in a fast-growing, competitive, and challenging chemical and molecular life sciences career. The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department offers students comprehensive educational programs linking foundation concepts and hands-on activities to real-world chemical and biochemical research and applied fields. The department also prepares students for continuing study in graduate and professional schools.

The Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at NJCU is committed to pursuing excellence and equity in teaching, learning, and research in emerging areas of chemistry. The curriculum has expanded to cover highly interdisciplinary fields such as molecular life sciences, biomedical chemistry, and forensic chemistry. Hands-on laboratory courses provide students with technical skills in using modern instrumentation for spectroscopy, chromatography, materials science, and biochemical techniques that are essential in these cutting-edge areas of research. Additionally, the Experiential Education Program enables students to gain professional experience applying their expertise in molecular engineering, pharmaceutical chemistry, DNA-based technology, and other high-demand specializations. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in impactful research projects investigating topics such as drug development, genetic and molecular engineering, and DNA profiling under the guidance of faculty mentors. Through this blend of classroom study, lab work, real-world experience, and faculty-led research in new directions in chemistry and biochemistry, NJCU develops students into leaders prepared for 21st century careers in molecular life sciences, biomedical research, forensic analysis, material sciences, and other emerging fields.

The NJCU Chemistry and Biochemistry Department is an affiliate of the American Chemical Society and American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Students can participate in the activities of the Chemistry Club and ASBMB Student Chapter. 

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Robert Noyce Scholarships for STEM Teachers

NSF scholarships and stipends will be awarded to NJCU STEM majors who are obtaining teaching certifications in their fields. Funds will be available to undergraduates for their junior and/or senior years, and post-baccalaureate STEM majors may receive one-year stipends to complete their teacher certification requirements.

Contact Us

Dr. Yufeng Wei, Chair
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Science 550J
Email: ywei@njcu.edu