About the Department of Biochemistry

The Department of Biochemistry is committed to cutting-edge research and to offering an outstanding biochemistry curriculum compliant with international standards. Our laboratories are located at the Irchel Campus in Zurich.

Our Motto

Dedicated to Biomolecular Structure and Mechanism

Our Mission

• to excel in structural biology, biochemistry, and biophysics
• to advance our understanding of fundamental biological processes and mechanisms at the molecular level
• to provide excellent teaching
• to educate and train the next generation of leaders in the field
• to encourage translational research and collaborations with clinical researchers and industry for biomedical applications

Our Research

Our research is focused on the functional investigation of biomolecular mechanisms using biophysical, biochemical, and structural approaches. Currently, the Department hosts eight research groups and houses excellent infrastructure for biomolecular research. Thanks to the development of new technologies and the subsequent acquisition of patents relevant for biomedical applications, several spin-off companies have evolved from the Department.

Our Teaching

Our Department provides education in biochemistry for science and medical students, as well as for Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows. Our training ranges from lectures and seminars to practical courses and individual research project coaching. Our aim is to prepare our students for successful academic or other professional careers.

Department Members

• between 160 and 170
• about 50% are Postdocs and Ph.D. students
• more than 60% are from abroad

Finance

• more than 60% of our funding is based on external grants
• major sources of funding are the Swiss National Science Foundation, the European Research Commission, private and public foundations, and companies
• total expenses in 2023: > 15 Mio. CHF