About the Department:
The Department of Biochemistry was established in 2000 and PG department was established in 2005 thereby becoming the first ever affiliated college under Kerala University University, Thiruvananthapuram. The Department has well equipped laboratory facilities with sophisticated instruments needed to develop the skill of the students and to support them for conducting project works.
About the subject:
Biochemistry is a branch of science which is a integration of biology and chemistry that explores the chemistry of living organisms and that of their biological processes. Biochemistry deals with the qualitative and quantitative characterization of the various cell components and also the elucidation of the nature and the mechanism of the reactions involving these cell components. Many newer disciplines have been emerged from Biochemistry such of Enzymology (study of enzymes), Endocrinology (study of hormones) Clinical Biochemistry (study of diseases), Molecular Biochemistry (Study of Biomolecules and their functions). Along with these branches certain other specialties have also come up such as Agricultural Biochemistry, Pharmacological Biochemistry etc. The subject provides a complete understanding of the Biomolecules and all the chemical processes associated with living cells at the molecular level. The programme make the students competent Biochemists who can work both in public and private sectors such as drug manufacturing companies, research departments, industrial laboratories, cancer research institutes, blood services, educational institutes, environmental pollution control, public health entities, agriculture and fisheries, forensic science, cosmetic industries, public health laboratories, hospitals, etc
Eligibility:
Degree with not less than 55% marks in Biochemistry/ Chemistry can apply. The total number of seats offered is 37 seats in UG and 16 seats in PG. The admission to the merit seats are carried out on the basis of the Central Allotment System by the Kerala University.
Research Areas:
The Department of Biochemistry is a multidisciplinary program in basic science that encompasses a wide-range of advanced research topics utilizing cutting edge approaches in cellular and molecular biochemistry. The research faculty of the Department of Biochemistry is actively involved in one or more of the following major research areas:
1. Molecular Medicine and Drug Discovery
Biochemistry is the central discipline in the discovery of new medicines. researchers Purify and study biologically active molecules produced by environmental microorganisms. The molecules discovered this way have applications as antibiotics, antifungal and anticancer therapeutics
2.Phytochemical Analysis
Phytochemistry is the study of phytochemicals, which are chemicals derived from plants. Phytochemists strive to describe the structures of the large number of secondary metabolites found in plants, the functions of these compounds in human and plant biology, and the biosynthesis of these compounds. Study phytochemicals by first extracting and isolating compounds from the origin plant, followed by defining their structure or testing in laboratory model systems, such as in vitro studies using cell lines.
3.Clinical pathology
The measurement of chemical constituents of blood and other body fluids (clinical chemistry), analysis of blood cells (hematology), identification of microbes (microbiology/parasitology/mycology), and the collection, preparation and use of blood for transfusion (transfusion medicine). Laboratory examination of a sample of blood used to obtain information about its physical and chemical properties.
4.Microbial Research
The study involves the identification of microorganisms for the diagnosis of infectious diseases and the assessment of likely response to specific therapeutic interventions. Major categories of organisms include bacteria, mycobacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites.
Faculty Expertise:
The strength of the Department of Biochemistry lies in its dedicated and qualified faculty members. The faculty brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the department, ensuring that students receive high-quality education and guidance. The diverse backgrounds and specialisations of the faculty contribute to a well-rounded learning environment. Faculty members are actively involved in research and publications, presenting their work at national and international conferences. Their contributions to academic journals and industry publications reflect the department's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.
Industry Collaboration:
Recognizing the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry, the Department of Biochemistry actively collaborates with Biogenix and NIMS Medicity. These collaborations take the form of internships, industrial visits, and joint research projects. The goal is to expose students to real-world challenges, industry best practices, and emerging technologies, enhancing their employability and industry readiness.
