News

2022 Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry

This 2022 Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry is coming up on Wednesday Nov 23rd at 1pm. For all the details please click here:Brosnan Lecture

Biochemistry, Nutrition, & Dietetics Career Talk

October 27th, 2022

12pm-1:30pm @ The Landing (UC 3015)

Pizza for lunch!

**All students and alumni are welcome to attend this event!

Science alumni who are working in the industry will present to students about their current careers and how they navigated their job search. This is a great opportunity to learn where a science degree can take you. Since many jobs are not publicly advertised, networking is a major factor for students and graduates in finding jobs and careers!

To learn more about the presenters and to register for event, please visit the link provided:

https://www.mun.ca/.../career-advice-for-science-students/

2024


March

Science Atlantic Nutrition and Food Conference

Science Atlantic is a registered charitable organization for scientists, faculty, and students in Atlantic Canada. Science Atlantic, formerly the Atlantic Provinces Council on the Sciences, was founded in 1962 with the aim of advancing post-secondary science education and research in Atlantic Canada. Memorial University, Newfoundland and Labrador will be hosting the student run 6th conference in-person as well as virtually on April 24-25, 2024. For more information on this event and registration please click here: Science Atlantic Nutrition and Food Conference

Eastern Newfoundland Science and Technology Fair 2024

We are pleased to announce the upcoming Eastern Newfoundland Science and Technology Fair 2024.

This year's fair will take place on Friday March 22nd in the Whale Atrium of Memorial University’s Core Science Facility 45 Arctic Ave. Judging of projects will take place from noon to 5pm. Parking will be available on levels 2 & 3 of Lot 27 (directly across from the CSF).

2023


December

Dr. Mulligan Retiring

As the 2023 comes to a close the department is also saying goodbye to Dr. Martin Mulligan. Please join us in sending him our best wishes for his next adventure!

November

Harlow and Study Abroad information session

NEXT INFORMATION SESSION – Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 4:30 PM in Room CSF-4201 (Core Science Facility)

We are having our next Harlow and Study Abroad Information Session on Thursday, November 9, 2023, from 4:30 – 5:45 PM in the Core Science Facility in Room CSF4201. Come along if you want to hear about our spring semester Harlow Campus Courses and our study abroad partnership with the University of Tromso in Norway. Everyone welcome!

Congratulations Dr. Fereidoon Shahidi

The department is happy to congratulate Dr. Fereidoon Shahidi in being awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of Nicolas Appert, by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)! The award “honors an individual who has demonstrated lifetime contributions to the science of food”.

Here is a link to an interview article with Dr. Shahidi for the IFT Magazine: 

https://www.ift.org/news-and-publications/food-technology-magazine/issues/2023/november/features/a-lifetime-of-discovery

October

Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry 2023

The department of Biochemistry is pleased to present the 2023 Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry. For more details please click here

July

Human Biosciences at Science on the Street

Thank you to our amazing volunteers!

Our Human Biosciences team for Saturday July 15, 2023! Thank you to (L-R) Abby, Claire, Julianna, and Kayla for an amazing job!

Memorial teams win national climate competition

Two Memorial-led projects that tackle plastic waste have topped a national climate competition.

Enactus Memorial’s Project R3D and BioLabMate were two of four winners in the inaugural Ocean Communities Climate Challenge recently held by the Ocean Startup Project.

 

June

Sina Heravi MSc Thesis Seminar

The effects of biological crowders on the structure, diffusion, and conformational dynamics of a-synuclein

Roya Shamsi MSc Thesis Seminar

Sleep Duration and Quality in Children: Interactions with Food Choices, Energy Balance, and Digital Screen-Time

May

Spring science graduates find each other during educational journey

Spring graduate Sydney Hillier was halfway through her undergraduate degree when she was in a car accident in 2018.

The traumatic event sidelined her plan to complete a bachelor of science degree in biochemistry (nutrition) at Memorial University.

Memorial's Rothermere scholar researching biology of bacteria at Cambridge

Liam Gregory has been named Memorial’s latest Rothermere Fellow.

It is one of the university’s most lucrative and prestigious awards.

Mr. Gregory, who is originally from St. John’s, graduated with a B.Sc.(Hons.), majoring in biochemistry, from Memorial in 2019. He completed a master’s degree at the University of British Columbia in 2021 and is currently enrolled in a PhD program at the University of Cambridge.

March

UofT food insecurity expert to give free public lecture

An expert in food insecurity will give a free public lecture on the Memorial St. John’s campus.

Dr. Valerie Tarasuk is a professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto. She will give the annual Faith Elizabeth Winifred (Rusted) Bayley Nutrition Lecture on March 22.

2022


November

Upcoming: 2022 Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry

2022 Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry

Antibiotic Resistance Up Close: A Structural Biologist View on a Global Health Threat

Dr. Albert Berghuis
Distinguished James McGill Professor and Chair
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
McGill University

When: November 23, 1:00pm

Where: Core Science Facility RM: CSF 1302

October

Students, staff and faculty honoured at Faculty of Science awards

The Faculty of Science held its annual Dean’s Awards Ceremony recently, recognizing the top 10 per cent of its students.

In addition, the awards honour the service, scholarship and teaching of faculty and staff.

September

Biochemistry department pilots Harlow Campus nutrition and food course

For a group of Memorial students this past spring, a field studies course took them to one of the biggest cities in the world — and beyond.

The fourth-level pilot course, Field Studies in Nutrition and Food (Biochemistry 4242), included a two-week trip to the U.K. in May, based at Memorial’s Harlow Campus.

Nearly $2 million in federal funding to strengthen Memorial's health-related research capacity

Five research teams are benefitting from a substantial investment to advance projects aimed at finding solutions to health challenges and training the next generation of scientists.

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) recently awarded Memorial a total of $1,921,253 in grants.

The funding will support studies focused on better understanding heart disease, HIV infection, stroke, neonatal nutrition and opioid policy

August

12th Annual Biochemistry Symposium

The 12th Annual Biochemistry Symposium is taking place this Friday, Aug 12, at the Fluvarium


Full details and the program can be found at: Symposium 2022

July

Thinking critically about past, present and future technological innovations

The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences’ (HSS) new certificate in the history and philosophy of science and technology is of broad interest to students of science, engineering, medicine, humanities and social sciences.

The program will challenge students to think critically and analytically about the consequences of past, present and future technological innovations on human existence, and the world we inhabit.

June

Nearly $8 million invested to accelerate diverse research discoveries

Memorial researchers, including those in the Faculty of Science, have secured nearly $8 million in competitive funding for research projects ranging from childhood amnesia to ocean biodiversity to renewable energy systems.

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) announced the results of its 2022 Discovery Research Programs competition on June 23.

In total, NSERC is investing $7,900,226 at Memorial.

Thinking about underrepresented scientists and cultural contributions to science

A creative assignment in a chemistry class got students learning about how scientific concepts are viewed by other cultures, or how scientists from other cultures contribute to scientific knowledge.

Chemistry 1051 students were asked to present a biography of an Indigenous; person of colour; a woman, trans or non-conforming or non-binary scientist; or how a science concept is relevant in their culture or another culture.

April

Atlantic Canadians deserve better cancer treatment options, writes cancer group

Atlantic Canadians have one of the highest risks of dying from cancer in Canada and every year, around 1,600 annual cancer deaths are from Newfoundland and Labrador.

Research is, therefore, critical to address the effects of cancer on this region’s population. Specifically, research that can deliver more personalized and effective treatments with fewer side-effects, as opposed to a one-size fits-all treatment. This is called precision medicine.

A day of family fun and education under the blue whale skeleton

On Saturday, May 14, everyone is invited to an open house event that will take place under and around the blue whale skeleton that hangs in Memorial's new Core Science Facility.

Come learn the story of the whale skeleton and take part in interactive learning opportunities, and have lots of fun along the way.

Faculty of Science holds interdisciplinary research conference

The Faculty of Science held its first interdisciplinary research conference April 8-9.

Scientific Endeavours in Academia (SEA) brought together undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and faculty from across the faculty’s nine departments and five interdisciplinary graduate programs.

March

Physician creates bursaries to honour supporters and to support students

For Dr. Imran Hack (B.Sc.’74, MD’79), giving back to Memorial is a way to repay the kindness he received as a student and a newcomer to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Efforts underway to grow scientific cancer research community

A well-known health researcher is taking on a new leadership role.

Dr. Sherri Christian, associate professor, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, has been named assistant scientific director in Newfoundland and Labrador for the Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute (BHCRI).

President Vianne Timmons honours outstanding employees

After many delays due to COVID-19 restrictions, Dr. Vianne Timmons enthusiastically handed out the 2021 President’s Awards to outstanding employees during a luncheon March 9 at the Signal Hill Campus.

Among those being recognized was Biochemistry's Heather Fifield, who received the President's Award for Exemplary Employees - Champion of Service.

February

More than $345,000 in federal funding for state-of-the-art scientific infrastructure

An investment of more than $345,000 for specialized tools and high-tech equipment will transform cutting-edge projects led by two early-career researchers.

2021


April

Memorial's most cited researcher recognized for 'unsurpassed' contributions

One of Memorial University’s most prolific and best-known researchers is being recognized at home and internationally for his work.

Dr. Fereidoon Shahidi is a University Research Professor with the Department of Biochemistry in the Faculty of Science who specializes in food science, nutrition and agriculture.

In February he was named the 2020 Dean of Science Distinguished Scholar Medal recipient; this month, he received the 2021 Award of Merit from the American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS).

He has also been named the American Chemical Society’s United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service 2021 Sterling Hendricks Memorial Lectureship Award Recipient.

 

February

Biochemistry PhD graduate takes regional 3MT competition

It may have taken him a while to get there, but it was worth the wait for Dr. Olatunji Anthony Akerele.

The recent PhD (biochemistry) graduate won first place in the 2020 Eastern Regional Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition hosted by Saint Mary’s University in Nova Scotia.

Dr. Akerele was also honoured with the People’s Choice award for his presentation, Omega-3 Intake During Pregnancy: Finding the Perfect Maternal Diet for Brain Health.

January

Graduate student receives scholarship for childhood cancer research

A doctoral student in the Department of Biochemistry has received a substantial graduate scholarship from the Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute (BHCRI).

The BHCRI’s Cancer Research Training Program will provide PhD student Modeline Longjohn with $35,750 over two years while she completes her doctorate at Memorial.

 

2020


December

Return to campus update

The initiative to return staff to campus will resume in the new year, based on public health directives and COVID alert levels. 

Delayed winter 2021 semester start

The official start date of winter 2021 classes in most programs at the St. John's campus, Grenfell Campus and Marine Institute will be moved to Monday, Jan. 11, 2021.

November

Safe, thoughtful and engaging research continues on critical studies

If the pandemic has proven anything, it’s the creativity and resilience of our researchers.

Over the last several months, members of our research community have re-envisioned, modified and found ways to (safely) continue their activities and studies, complying with public health and university guidelines.

 

Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry 2020

The Department of Biochemisry welcomes Dr. Amira Klip, to present the 2020 Brosnan lecture in Biochemistry. The abstract and meeting information can be found here and the offical poster for the event can be viewed here.

Course Change Information for Winter 2021

Information regarding undergraduate course changes and delivery can now be found on our undergraduate webpage. You can also find it on this homepage in the left hand side menu under "Course Information 2020-2021". Please feel free to visit our page dedicated to COVID19 related course changes here

Return to campus postponed

Due to rising cases of COVID-19 throughout Newfoundland and Labrador at this time, Memorial University is postponing the return to campus initiative for non-academic staff scheduled for this week.

This applies to all campuses and locations. More information will be shared as it becomes available.

Reminders for employees gradual return to campus

All employees should already have discussed their gradual return to campus plans with their supervisor starting the week of Nov. 23.

Winter fees

Memorial students will not be charged the Distance Education Administration Fee and Recreation Fee for the upcoming semester.

Return to campus

Memorial University is adopting a gradual approach to bringing staff back to campus.

October

Update on international students

Memorial approved to welcome new international students, oversee travel and isolation requirements

Update to employees on Memorial's COVID response

The following message is being sent on behalf of Dr. Mark Abrahams as chair of Vice-Presidents Council.

Earlier this week, Memorial announced the winter 2021 academic semester will remain primarily remote. Many employees who continue to work from home may wonder what it means for you. As well, units may be considering how this announcement impacts operations.

September

Update on winter 2021 semester

Memorial will continue to operate in a primarily remote teaching and learning environment for the winter 2021 semester. This decision was taken in a special meeting of the university Senate today. Read more in the Gazette.

Help limit the spread: Memorial endorses COVID Alert app

Recently the province of Newfoundland and Labrador adopted the new COVID Alert app to help prevent the spread of the virus. The app is designed to let Canadians know whether they may have been exposed to COVID-19. Memorial is endorsing the app and encourages faculty, staff and students to voluntarily download the app for free to help protect yourself and others.

News September 2020

We hope you all had an opportunity to enjoy our wonderful summer weather. We have started a new semester remotely which brings challenges and opportunities for us all. We encourage you all to stay as connected as possible with students, faculty and staff.

Faculty

Welcome to Dr. Shyamchand Mayengbam, our newest Faculty Member. Dr. Mayengbam started with us on July 1st as an Assistant Professor. Welcome Dr. Mayengbam.

 

August

Non-medical face masks mandatory beginning Aug. 24

Since early July, Memorial has strongly encouraged wearing non-medical masks while on campus. Beginning Monday, Aug. 24, 2020 masks must be worn in public indoor spaces in Newfoundland and Labrador as issued in a special measures order by Newfoundland and Labrador’s Chief Medical Officer. Therefore, non-medical masks will be mandatory beginning on Monday for Memorial faculty, staff, students and visitors.

Remote learning technology requirements for fall 2020

Memorial University has developed general technology standards for remote/online learning across Memorial’s campuses in fall 2020.

July

New tools and resources hub for students: MUNUp

Memorial launched MUNUp, a new online tools and resources hub to help students succeed while learning remotely. With transition and orientation programs, services, virtual events and community engagement opportunities, the sky’s the limit.

 

Update on university travel outside of Newfoundland and Labrador during COVID-19

Memorial University continues to actively monitor the evolving situation regarding COVID-19. Requests for university travel within and outside of Canada deemed essential for student academic progression, research purposes, and faculty and staff activities, will be supported with certain key elements in place (e.g. proof of health insurance coverage) in advance of the travel, and travel request approval from the dean or director of a unit.

COVID-19 prevention best practices

The province has been successful at flattening the curve of COVID-19. It’s important to continue to be vigilant and ensure we keep in mind that preventing another outbreak or minimizing impacts will depend on our collective adherence to best practices.

Update on fall semester

On July 14 undergraduate students of Memorial University will begin the course registration process for the fall semester. In preparation for this task, we would like to remind the university community that teaching and learning will take place in a primarily remote and online teaching and learning environment in fall 2020.

Correction: Update on fall semester

Students in designated courses in Engineering will have limited forms of in-person, on-campus lab activities which will be communicated separately from the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science to students. Incorrect information appeared in an earlier Newsline message.

June

Fall fees

Suspension of two student fees to continue in fall semester

Alert Level 2 update: living in our campus communities with COVID-19

As the province moves to alert level 2, Memorial has completed the process to provide faculty access to their individual offices on the St. John’s campus, the libraries are moving to expand services in all six of their branches and the Botanical Garden has opened for the season with health and safety measures in place.

Campus access: remaining buildings on St. John`s Campus

As a follow up regarding building access for faculty on St. John’s campus, beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, June 24, all remaining buildings including Physical Education, St. John’s College, Music, Spencer, Coughlan College and Ocean Sciences Centre will be ready for faculty members to return to their individual offices from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Doors will remain locked and access will be by key or card access, which can be coordinated with your unit's key requester.

Faculty access to additional buildings on St. John’s campus

As a follow up regarding building access for faculty on St. John`s campus, beginning Monday, June 22, buildings for Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Education, Queen’s College, Business, Henrietta Harvey and Biotechnology will be ready for individual faculty members to return from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Doors will remain locked and access will be by key or card access.

Student-led health tech companies win $40,000 seed funding at Mel Woodward Cup

Innovative business ideas focused on health technology and nutrition won the top prizes at the 2020 Mel Woodward Cup (MWC), hosted by the Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship (MCE), yesterday.

Nucliq Biologics Inc. captured the top prize of $25,000 for its plan to develop a gut check analysis kit that provides detailed analysis of gut microbial diversity, particularly of use for people suffering from digestive disorders.

Nucliq is co-founded by Purvikalyan Pallegar, a PhD candidate in biology, and alumna Nikitha Kendyala (PhD (biochemistry),’19). The company incorporated in 2019.

 

Faculty access to Bruneau, Engineering and Earth Sciences buildings starts Thursday

As a follow up to last week’s message regarding building access for faculty on St. John`s campus, beginning Thursday, June 18, Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, Engineering and Earth Sciences buildings will be ready for individual faculty members to return from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Plan for faculty return to campus

As a follow up to last week’s message, we want to provide an update regarding the plan to enable faculty to return to individual offices on a more regular basis.

AUS suspends competition until January 2021

Atlantic University Sport has announced the decision to suspend all conference regular season and postseason competition until January 2021. 

Update: Guiding Principles for Living with COVID-19 in our communities and more

Newfoundland and Labrador continues to operate under Public Health COVID-19 Alert Levels, which outline services, businesses and functions allowed to operate at each alert level. The province is currently scheduled to move to Alert Level 3 on Monday, June 8. Work is ongoing at Memorial to implement a phased resumption of on-campus academic, research and administrative activities, in consideration of government’s five-level approach.

May

Congratulations to the Class of 2020

President Timmons offers her congratulations to the Biochemistry graduating class of 2020! If you missed it during our virutal celebration, you can view the video here.

Memorial's Pension Plan during the COVID-19 pandemic

We are living in unprecedented socio-economic times. As a result, many pension plan members, both retired and still working, may be concerned about their pension and their own long term financial security.

As you might expect, the Memorial University Pension Plan, like many others across the country, has experienced some financial challenges due to the investment market turmoil brought on by the combined effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and world oil prices.

Memorial to offer remote program delivery for fall 2020

Memorial University will welcome new and returning students to a primarily remote teaching and learning environment for the fall semester. Full in-person, on-campus courses will not resume before January 2021.

COVID-19 update to university

As we approach Monday, May 11, and the scheduled move to COVID-19 Alert Level 4 as outlined by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, many of you may wonder what that means for Memorial. At this point, none of the restrictions currently in place at Memorial will change if the Level 4 status is implemented by the province on May 11.

April

Condolences to the Family of Luke Hattie

The Department is shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Luke Hattie. Luke graduated from the department in 2017 with an honours degree, completing his thesis in Dr. Brown's lab. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Luke's family and friends at this very difficult time. RIP Luke.

Update from the Department of Human Resources

Further to previous messaging from the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) regarding the ramping up of remote work, managers should now be engaging with all staff to determine work that can be completed remotely.

Guide to Financial Supports and Programs

Student Life has created a comprehensive Guide to Financial Supports and Employment Programs.

Self-Service Grading Option page extended for 24 hours

As this has been an unprecedented semester and some instructors will not be able to submit Winter 2020 grades until April 25, the Student Self-Service Grading Option page will remain available to students for an additional 24 hours, closing on Sunday, April 26 at 12:00 p.m. (NDT).

Status of fall 2020 semester

Memorial University is actively considering scenarios for innovative program delivery for the fall 2020 semester. We are committed to providing students with full access to our quality academic programs, despite the challenges that may come.

Building update April 16: Further building access controls for all campuses

Message from the President and Provost

Due to the unprecedented emergency situation that has resulted in the declaration of a Public Health Emergency in Newfoundland and Labrador, Memorial University is enacting further measures related to buildings access on all our campuses to enhance social distancing and keep our community safe. By ensuring we are aware of who is on campus, we are better able to protect the health and safety of our faculty, staff and students who must come to campus.

Update on general admissions for 2020-21 academic year

On Tuesday, April 14, Memorial’s Senate waived the undergraduate general admission overall average requirement of 70 per cent for Newfoundland and Labrador high school students in the graduating class of 2020 who apply to attend Memorial University in the 2020-21 academic year (Fall 2020, Winter 2021, or Spring 2021).

Reminder: Personal protective equipment (PPE) collection

As a reminder, Memorial continues to identify and collect personal protective equipment (PPE) which may be held by units throughout the university.

St. John's campus revised building hours

Effective April 9, Memorial is phasing in reduced building access on St. John's campus, beginning with reduced building hours. Buildings will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday and will be locked on weekends and holidays. 

Student emergency funds

Many students are facing a range of stressful disruptions in their lives as a result of the worldwide health pandemic. Cancellation of all in-person classes, a full move to remote learning and having to quickly vacate residences – combined with isolation measures, job loss and travel bans – have created particular hardships for students who lack other supports.

A message from Dr. Vianne Timmons

As we start the week, I wanted to pause for a moment to express a sincere thank you to the hundreds of critical employees who have been working tirelessly and constantly since the start of Memorial’s COVID-19 response.

Update on student fees and PAS/FAL choice

Suspension of two student fees for spring semester and update on PAS/FAL choice

March

Spring registration update

Information on revised start date for Spring registration for graduate and undergraduate students

Bonne Bay Marine Station Public Aquarium postpones opening

To assist with proactively preventing the spread of COVID-19, the seasonal re-opening of the Bonne Bay Marine Station’s Public Aquarium, which was previously scheduled for May 16th, has been postponed until further notice.

Message to the university community from Dr. Gary Kachanoski

This has been a momentous week at Memorial as the first week of remote instruction draws to a close. I want to send a heartfelt thanks to all of our students, faculty and staff for your patience, hard work and perseverance in making this transition happen. It has taken an army of people to get us here, and the job is certainly not over yet. We must continue to work together toward the successful completion of the winter 2020 semester for our students.

Update on Feild Hall residence, research and the Writing Centre

Update on Feild Hall residence; on-campus research and scholarly activities, fieldwork and interaction with research participants; and the Writing Centre

Statement on Feild Hall residence

The health and safety of our students is our primary concern during these unprecedented times. In consultation with Memorial University, The Graduate Students’ Union (GSU) has given notice to Feild Hall residents notice to vacate the building. This decision was made based on health and safety considerations. Memorial has made an offer to relocate students to another residence, MacPherson Hall. The university is providing each of the residents a room at a discounted rate so that they will pay no additional rent. As well, the university will provide the students, at a discounted rate, access to the university meal plan.

Direct deposit forms required by March 27

A reminder to employees and pensioners who are currently paid by cheque, you are required to move to direct deposit to ensure pay cheques continue during this uncertain and evolving situation.

Identification and collection of PPE

Memorial’s emergency operations centre (EOC) is identifying personal protective equipment (PPE) which may be held by units throughout the university.

Student Update

Information on counselling services and computer labs

Faculty and staff update on critical functions, remote work and prioritizing work assignments

Thank you for your patience and support as we continue to work together to transition our operations while maintaining our commitment to support students, faculty and staff. Over the past week you’ve likely had questions about what you should be working on from home. The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and your managers have been working to identity what functions are most critical at this time, and how we continue our work during this uncertain time.

Updates on enrolment verification, remote academic advising, bookstore resources

This update includes information about Registrar's Office and School of Graduate Studies processing times, remote academic advising options at all campuses and resources available for students from the bookstore.

Processing and service times for Registrar's Office and School of Graduate Studies

Most of the Registrar’s Office staff and School of Graduate Studies staff are working remotely. As a result, processing and service times for many of our services have increased, including requests for enrolment verification letters, official transcripts, supporting admission documents, etc. As we continue to practice social distancing, we are discouraging students from coming on campus at this time to drop off or pick up documents. Please do not visit our offices at this time.

Health Research Ethics Authority Research Ethics Office

The Health Research Ethics Authority (HREA) Research Ethics Office (REO) has been closely monitoring the developments related to COVID-19. In light of recent restrictions, the REO of the Health Research Ethics Board (HREB) wishes to advise researchers that, effective immediately, their research protocols must be modified or delayed to avoid face-to-face personal interactions with research participants.

UPDATED INFORMATION: Classrooms, teaching labs and study rooms closing on all campuses

Updated opening hours and occupancy limits for computer labs that remain open for students who do not have personal computer access for remote learning.

Update on spring semester, spring convocation and MUNSafe

Memorial’s spring semester, including intersession and summer session, will continue with remote instruction of all courses at all campuses. This means in-person on-campus courses will not resume before September 2020 Additionally, Memorial will will postpone Spring Convocation 2020 ceremonies that were scheduled for May 14 in Corner Brook and May 26-29 in St. John’s.

 

Classrooms, teaching labs and study rooms closing on all campuses

Effective tomorrow, Monday, March 23, instruction at Memorial University officially resumes remotely.

Accessible remote teaching and learning guidelines

The Blundon Centre has developed guidelines to assist faculty and instructors with incorporating accessibility into remote teaching and learning approaches.

Message from the President to the University Community

This has been an unprecedented week for our university and our communities. I hope you are each taking care of yourselves, practicing social distancing and hand washing, and doing your part to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Course Evaluation Questionnaires

Memorial will not administer Course Evaluation Questionnaires (CEQs) for the winter 2020 semester. 

Supporting research activities during COVID-19

As Memorial and the world assess the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Memorial is committed to supporting our researchers in continuing their research activities.

Academic updates

Spring semester registration, waived regulations and more information for students

Update for students, employees and instructors

Information for instructors, remote workers, students and employees.

Update on final exams for Winter 2020 semester

Students are advised that there will be no final exams taking place on campus in April. This includes both on campus and online invigilated exams. A proposal regarding final exams has been approved.

Update from the Office of the Vice-President (Research)

Activities for faculty, staff and students (undergraduate and graduate) in all research laboratories will be suspended from 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, onward.

Update for employees regarding work arrangements

Following the message earlier today regarding suspension of classes, employees should consult with their managers immediately regarding their work arrangement.

Update on suspension of classes and change in library hours - 12:55 p.m.

Based on ongoing consultation with units and a determination of their ability to be responsive, and the evolving public health environment, Memorial University has moved up the timeline for suspension of all classes. As of end of day Tuesday, March 17, all classes (in person and online) on all campuses will be suspended. Unless your individual instructor has advised otherwise, all academic programming, including midterms and evening classes, will go ahead today, March 17. Remote delivery of classes is scheduled to resume on Monday, March 23, as previously announced. Students with questions about their classes should contact their instructor.

Update on COVID-19 response - March 16

This important update includes information for students, faculty and staff. Of particular note: all students who reside on the island of Newfoundland are required to vacate student residences by end of day, Friday, March 20. Childcare Centre is closed immediately until further notice. Memorial is encouraging remote work with the understanding that university priorities are the health and safety of students, faculty and staff; maintaining the academic integrity of the semester; and critical university operations. To allow for social distancing and to help employees manage the current demands, employees are asked to work with their supervisor to facilitate remote work arrangements where operationally feasible. Unless you currently have arrangements with your supervisor, report to work as scheduled.

January

News January 2020

Happy New Year everyone! We hope you all enjoyed the holidays. 

Biochemistry had 39 MUCEP/ISWEP students working in our research labs, student labs, and resource centers during the Fall semester.

2019


December

New Course at Harlow Campus

Would you like to study nutrition at Memorial's Harlow Campus? If so, there is a new course offering Bioc 4242: Field Studies in Food and Nutrition. This course will take place at Harlow Campus in the United Kingdom in the Spring 2020 semester. See more information here

 

November

Biochemistry Student Awarded Killam Fellowship from Fulbright Canada

Amelia Lacey has been awarded a Killam Fellowship from Fulbright Canada. As one of Canada's top 20 students recieving the fellowship this year, she will study at University of Hawai’i at Manoa. Full details can be found here

October

Dr. Ann Colbourne recognized by Mayo Clinic Alumni Association

Congratulations to Biochemistry alumna Dr. Ann Colbourne who has been recognized by the Mayo Clinic Alumni Association as the recipient of the 2019 Doctors Mayo Society Lifetime Achievement Lecturer award. Dr. Colbourne was recognized for her philanthropy as an alumna of Mayo Clinic and achievements in her medical career at the 71st Biennual Meeting in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Colbourne completed bachelor of medical science and bachelor of science in biochemistry degrees at Memorial University, before going on to obtain a master of arts degree in theology and bachelor of arts degree in theology (Rhodes Scholar) from the University of Oxford. In addition she has completed advanced internal medicine and internal medicine fellowships at Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education in Rochester, Minnesota.
"Doctors Mayo Society is a recognition program for physicians, scientists and leaders commited to advancing the mission of Mayo Clinic through philanthropy."
Congratulations Dr. Colbourne!

September

News September 2019

Welcome –

Faculty

Welcome to Dr. Jaeok Park, our newest Faculty Member. Dr. Park started with us on July 1st as an Assistant Professor. Welcome Dr. Park.

Students

We would like to welcome our new graduate students. Six students have started in the Fall 2019 semester:

  • Zack Clancy, Masters student in Dr. Bertolo’s lab
  • Kandeepan Karthigesu, Doctoral student in Dr. Brown and Dr. Bertolo’s labs
  • Marzana Monefa, Masters student in Dr. Brown’s lab
  • Marcus Payne, Masters student in Dr. Harding’s lab
  • Simone Wilkins, Masters student in Dr. Brunton’s lab
  • Spencer Wilkins, Masters student in Dr. Brunton’s lab

June

Employment opportunity

We’re hiring! We are seeking a qualified candidate for our tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Nutritional Sciences. Please click here for more details. Note: the application deadline is September 2, 2019.

9th Annual Biochemistry Summer Symposium

9th Annual Biochemistry Summer Symposium 2019

To view the poster for this event please click here 

If you are planning to present, please register by July 26th, 2019

2019-2020 Calendar Changes to Existing Biochemistry Programs and Course Offerings

There are some changes to existing Biochemistry programs and course offerings in the upcoming academic year that you will need to take into consideration when choosing your courses for both the Fall 2019 and Winter 2020 semesters.

If you have any questions or if any of these changes cause program difficulties when you register please contact us at bcadvice@mun.ca.

Information about the Department of Biochemistry is available on the department web site at http://www.mun.ca/biochem

Program Changes:

  1. Fall 2019 and Winter 2020 we will be introducing two new dedicated laboratory courses: Biochemistry 3906 (Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism Laboratory) and Biochemistry 3907 (Molecular Biology Laboratory). Biochemistry 3907 will be offered in Fall and Biochemistry 3906 will be offered in Winter.

  2. We will be removing the laboratory portion which currently exists in Biochemistry 3107 (Nucleic Acid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology). This will then become a lecture only course and will be renumbered as Biochemistry 3207 (Nucleic Acid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology). (Fall offering only) 

  3.  We will be removing the laboratory portion which currently exists in Biochemistry 3106 (Metabolism). This will then become a lecture only course and will be renumbered as Biochemistry 3206 (Metabolism). (Fall and Winter offerings)

Further Course changes......

Read More

Convocation 2019

On May 29, 2019 we held our Convocation event and said goodbye to 22 B. Sc. (Honours) graduates (5 of whom completed joint honours programmes), 32 B.Sc. graduates, and 16 graduates with Minors in Biochemistry. In addition, O. Chandani Dinesh and Nikitha Kendyala Pallegar received a Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry, Rasanjali Egodage received a Doctor of Philosophy in Food Science, and Gagandeep Kaur, Jenika Marshall, and Shrushti Shah all received a M.Sc. in Biochemistry. Darshana Brahmbhatt also completed a Master of Environmental Science under Dr. Brown’s supervision.

May

News May 2019

Welcome – Students

We would like to welcome some new graduate students. Five students have started in the Spring 2019 semester:

  • David Barnes, Masters student in Dr. Berry’s lab
  • Renan Da Silva Lima, Doctoral student in Dr. Shahidi’s lab
  • Sheyla Montero Vega, Masters student in Dr. Booth’s lab
  • Efe Obade, Doctoral student in Dr. Harding’s lab and
  • Kyla Walsh, Masters student in Dr. Harding’s lab

2018


December

News December 2018

Congratulations and Thank you

We’d like to send a huge thank you to our graduate students who took the time to cook a delicious holiday brunch earlier this month! The variety and amount of food was fantastic and your event is going to be a hard act to follow.

Congratulations to Mahesha Asiriwardhana, a MSc. student in Brunton/Bertolo lab, on the birth of her baby boy born on October 20th, 2018.

New Endowed Lectureship - Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry Announcement

Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry Announcement

After 47 years with the Department of Biochemistry, Dr. Brosnan will be retiring at the end of this month. We cannot thank him enough for his years of service and all that he has contributed to the department. His final contribution is one that will be of benefit to Memorial students for years to come. The Brosnan Lecture in Biochemistry Endowment Fund will enable the Department to invite renowned biochemists to Memorial to deliver one or more lectures on biochemical research and/or on the history of biochemistry. In addition to delivering the lecture(s), the lecturer will also meet and interact with the department’s research students and faculty.

September

News

Farewell and Welcome– Staff / Faculty / Post-Doctoral Fellows

Welcome to Dr. Scott Harding, our newest Faculty Member. Dr. Harding started with us on July 1st as an Assistant Professor. Welcome Dr. Harding.

Since our last news article, three of our long-time permanent departmental staff have retired. Craig Skinner left us in April, Christine Squire in June, and Betty Ann Gaslard in August. All three were at Memorial for over 30 years and are very much missed in the Department. All leave big shoes to fill and take with them their wealth of knowledge and experience. Coffee breaks are not quite ...............

August

Summer Symposium Program Information

The 8th annual Biochemistry Summer Symposium is set to take place Friday, August 10th at the Johnson Geo Centre. To view the program information and detailed schedule please click HERE

July

Employment opportunity

We’re hiring!

We are seeking a qualified candidate for our tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Enzyme/Receptor Biochemistry. Please click here for more details. Note, the application deadline is September 17, 2018.

March

Calendar Changes to Existing Biochemistry Programs and Course Offerings

There are some changes to existing Biochemistry programs and course offerings in the upcoming academic year that you will need to take into consideration when choosing your courses for both the Fall 2018 and Winter 2019 semesters.

Changes:

  1. In Fall 2018 we will be introducing a new dedicated laboratory course, Biochemistry 2901 Biochemistry Laboratory. (Fall offering only) The prerequisites for this course are Chemistry 1051, Science 1807 and the co-requisite will be ....

Read More

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following students who have completed their Programs of Study:

  • Jiaur Rahman completed his MSc in October 2017 (Supervisor - Dr. Shahidi);
  • Viswanathan Swaminathan completed his MSc in October 2017 (Supervisor - Dr. Christian);
  • Maaran Sunthamoorthy completed his PhD in Food Science in October 2017 (formerly supervised by Dr. Hoover until his passing and then under Dr. Brown’s supervision);
  • Scott Bray completed his MSc in December 2017 (Supervisor - Dr. Bertolo); 
  • Welaa Al-Jaroudi completed her MSc in February 2018 (Supervisor - Dr. Bertolo).

Welcome

We would like to welcome some new students. Na T. Ngo and Lanh V. Nguyen are 

Read More

January

News

Lifetime Achievement Award

Congratulations to Dr. Fereidoon Shahidi who was the recipient of the ISNFF Lifetime Achievement Award “As an expression of appreciation and recognition for eminent contributions in the field of nutraceuticals, functional foods, and dietary supplements through original research, leadership, and service.”

2017


October

Summer research internship 'life-changing' for science student

Jevon Marsh would like to see more undergraduate students take advantage of opportunities to study and do research abroad.

He spent 12-weeks completing a student research position in Germany this summer, an experience he says was “life-changing.”

September

September News

Noteworthy events

  • Congratulations to Nikitha Kendyala Pallegar and her husband, Purvi on the arrival of their beautiful baby boy on July 23rd weighing in at 8 lbs.  Nikitha is a PhD student in Dr. Christian’s lab.  We wish your family lots of fun, love and cuddles.

 

June

June News

Summer student hiring is now almost complete.  We currently have 19 students funded from various programs working in our research labs.

Congratulations to Dr. Shahidi who was the recipient of the 2017 MilliporeSigma /Nicholas Pelick-AOCS Research Award ..

 

Tender awarded, construction to resume on Core Science Facilty

Memorial University has awarded the main construction contract for the Core Science Facility to Marco Services Limited.

The contract, known as CP-3R, is for the remaining work on the building. Construction will resume on the project this spring. It is slated to open for the fall semester in 2020.

“The development of our new Core Science Facility at Memorial University is the cornerstone of our infrastructure renewal plan and vital for the continued success of our great university,” said President Gary Kachanoski. “Once complete, the core science facility will enhance our ability to recruit and retain world-class faculty who will provide the best education for undergraduate and graduate students.”

 

May

O'Donel High Students visit the Biochemistry Department

Students from O'Donel High School were hosted by the Department of Biochemistry on Thursday May 18th where they used newly learned skills in protein determination, DNA extraction and DNA interpretation to solve a couple of CSI whodoneit's put together by the Biochemistry  departments student lab staff.  

April

Biochemistry prepares for 50th anniversary reunion

On July 1, 2017, Memorial University will mark a special milestone.

On that date, the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, which first opened on July 1, 1967, will turn 50 years old. To commemorate, the department is hosting a reunion weekend Sept. 8-10 and hopes to reconnect with many former students, staff and faculty.

 

March

News - February 2017

Dr. Phil Davis retired at the end of December after a long and illustrious career.  Dr. Davis first came to Memorial in 1968 and during his time here was an undergraduate student, technician, graduate student, faculty member, researcher, and department head.  We wish him a long, healthy, enjoyable retirement.

Federal funding empowers researchers, brings new equipment

Drs. Robert Brown and Fereidoon Shahidi, Department of Biochemistry, and Dr. Chris Parrish, Department of Ocean Sciences, secured $211,876 for a facility focused on metabolomic analysis. The CFI funding will provide the research team with high-tech equipment, allowing the team to discover new food supplements, screening methods for diseases and new affordable treatments for diseases.

You can read the complete story on the Faculty of Science news page.

January

University Student Summer Internship Program (USSIP)

Undergraduate Students, who meet the eligibility requirements and are interested in carrying out a 13 or 16 week, 35 hours per week, research/development work term, under the supervision of a full-time faculty member or regular term appointee, are invited to submit an application to University Student Summer Internship Program (USSIP).  Students are limited to applying to only one department/academic unit at Memorial.  Research awards resulting from Memorial’s 2017-2018 internal competition must be taken up in the Summer 2017 semester.

Deadline for submission to Research Grant and Contract Services (RGCS):5:00 p.m., February 15, 2017

 

2016


December

NSERC - Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) 2017-18 Competition at Memorial

The deadline for applications for the 2017-18 competition is noon, Thursday January 26, 2017. Printed and signed hardcopies of the application, official transcript and the Approval Form for Release of Student Information must also be delivered to Research Grant and Contract Services (Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation, Room IIC-2015) by the submission deadline.

Board approves senior appointments; VPR search set to begin

At its regular meeting on Dec. 1, Memorial’s Board of Regents approved the appointments of Dr. Mark Abrahams as associate vice-president (research) pro tempore and Dr. Mary Courage as acting dean, Faculty of Science.

Both appointments are effective Jan. 1, 2017.

Dr. Abrahams, who currently serves as dean of science, will replace Dr. Ray Gosine, who was named vice-president (research) pro tempore in October. Dr. Courage, University Research Professor, Department of Psychology, will replace Dr. Abrahams.

 

November

November News

Campus Food Bank Christmas Hamper
This year the Campus Food Bank expects to give out about 90 Christmas hampers and are seeking assistance in filling them. All non-perishable donations are greatly appreciated.  The items required for an average size family are listed by clicking here


Marie Codner has once again placed boxes in the Feltham room and any donation would be appreciated. If you are giving cash and would like a receipt please let Marie know. December 7th is the deadline.

Congratulations and Welcome

Welcome to our new graduate students who have joined us this Fall:

October

Biochemistry Celebration!

Our winners’ prize for the Campus Food Bank’s 12 Days of Giving was a donated coffee break.  We again collected the most food of any department participating, an achievement we’ve reached many times before.  .

 

September

Public lecture to discuss effectiveness of multivitamins

Are multivitamins effective? Are we consuming too many and can they cause harm?

Those are a few of the questions which will be answered at a free public lecture on the Memorial St. John’s Campus on Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m. in room IIC-2001.

 

August

Ratnajothi Hoover, R.I.P.

The Department of Biochemistry mourns the passing of Dr. Ratnajothi Hoover.

 

July

BioMedicine Symposium

The Department of Biochemistry graduate and undergraduate student summer symposium is changing format this year.  We've joined with some other Memorial programs to put off a two-day research event.   See story for details.

June

Course Schedule Changes Fall - Winter 2016-2017

Please note changes to the 2016-2017 course schedule for Biochemistry and Nutrition majors and minors.  Our offerings on the Self-Service registration pages reflect these changes.  We are also reminding students of the requirement for Science 1807.  See story for details.

 

January

June - December 2015 News

Here's a compendium of many of the activities that occured in the Biochemistry Department during the summer and fall of 2015.

NSERC - Undergraduate Student Research Awards

NSERC - Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA)  fund summer jobs in research labs here at Memorial, as well as other universities.  The deadline to submit your application is noon January 22.  See story for further details.

2015


December

Deferred and Supplementary Exams

The Biochemistry General Office along with many other of our departmental services will be closed from 10 am Thursday, December 24th until 9:00 am Tuesday, January 5th.  All deferred and supplementary exam applications should be submitted on Tuesday, January 5th.  Students will be given a minimum of 48 hours notice for writing any such exam.  All exams will be written during the first week of classes, (January 6 – 12, 2016).

 

October

Chemistry 2100, 2210 scheduling changes PLUS Science 1807 news

Chemistry has announced changes to Chemistry 2100 and 2210 scheduling beginning in the 2016-17 academic year.  Science 1807 (or Safety 1000) continues to be a required prerequisite course, affecting Winter 2016 registration .  Please read linked story for further information on these two matters.

September

Science celebrates academic achievement and service

It was a full house for the recent Dean of Science Awards ceremony and reception on Tuesday, Sept. 22.

Over 280 students, who represent the top 10 per cent in the faculty, were admitted to the Dean's List, possibly the largest number at one time.

 

Memorial facilities to participate in national Science Literacy Week

Memorial University’s Faculty of Science, Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Library, the Botanical Garden and Let's Talk Science have joined forces with the Johnson GEO Centre and St. John’s Regional Library to host a series of science themed events during the week of Sept. 21st.

July

New Online Safety Prerequisite - Science 1807

Our MUN lab safety course Safety 1000 has a new academic equivalent, Science 1807.  It is the exact same course, just available with two different numbers.  1807 will appear in the 2016-2017 calendar, but is is in effect now as a requirement for certain Biochemistry courses.  See rest of story for details.

June

February March April May 2015 News

Over the winter months a variety of activities occurred in the department, finishing with the biggest event of the year for us, convocation.  Read our story for more information.

April

Supplementary Exam Information

A student who has clear or conditional standing may write a supplementary examination in a course if the final grade obtained is 45-49F and if his or her term mark is at least 50%.

Deadline to apply for Winter 2015 final exam period is April 29, 2015. 

 

March

Prime Minister's Volunteer Award for Biochemistry Student

Cody O’Brien, a biochemistry major and avid Let’s Talk Science volunteer, has been named Community Leader (Atlantic) in the 2015 Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards.

February

January 2015 News

As the Winter semester started we were happy to welcome some new people to the department. See our story for details.

October - November - December 2014 News

Fall 2014 was a busy time in the Biochemistry Department and we have much to report.  See our story for details.

January

Graduate student awarded an American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Travel Award

Congratulations to Emily Courage, an M.Sc. student under the supervision of Dr. Brown , who was awarded an American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Graduate/Postdoctoral Travel Award for her submitted abstract to the Experimental Biology 2015 conference in Boston, MA in early Spring.

Graduate Student receives the J. Beryl Truscott Graduate Scholarship

Congratulations to Kayode Balogun, a PhD candidate in Dr. Cheema’s lab, on receiving the J. Beryl Truscott Graduate Scholarship for the second consecutive time.

2014


December

Deferred and Supplementary Exams

The Biochemistry General Office along with many other of our departmental services will be closed from 10 am Wednesday, December 24th until 9:00 am Monday, January 5th.  All deferred and supplementary exam applications should be submitted on Monday, January 5th.  Students will be given a minimum of 48 hours notice for writing any such exam.  All exams will be written during the first week of classes, (January 5 – 9, 2015).

 

October

June - July - August - September 2014 News

A busy summer in the department has lead to an even busier fall with a new head, new students, new scholarship, and a distinguished service award winner to top it all off!  See our story for full details.

August

2014 Biochemistry Summer Symposium - Keynote Speaker

Dr. Alain Nepveu from McGill University's Biochemistry Department will be the keynote speaker for the 2014 Biochemistry Summer Symposium. Dr. Nepveu's talk will be Wednesday August 13th, 2014 from 12:30-1:30pm at the Suncor Fluvarium.

June

Concept design phase of core sciences building nearing completion

The concept design phase of the new 425,000 sq. ft. core science facility is expected to wrap up in July.

On June 25th, three concepts will be presented in a Town Hall session to the Memorial community, with the goal of establishing a preferred scheme based on the strengths of each design.

May

Canadian Nutrition Society to meet in St. John's

The Canadian Nutrition Society/Societe Canadienne de Nutrition is holding its 2014 Annual Meeting in St. John's June 5 - 7. 

May 2014 News

The department celebrated the May 2014 Convocation by inviting graduates and their families in for a light lunch.  Some departmental awards were given at the event.  See related story for more details, as well as more May news.

News for February, March, and April 2014

The winter semester was a time of much activity in the Biochemistry Department.  See our story for work, social, and scholarship news.

February

January 2014 News

January started off slowly as the provincial power outages saw a deferred opening at Memorial.  See story for that and other January news.

December 2013 News

The department finished a year full of hard work with a well-deserved Christmas break.  See our story for what we did in December before we closed down our labs until January .

2013


December

Deferred and Supplementary Exams

The Biochemistry General Office along with many other of our departmental services will be closed from 10 am Tuesday, December 24th until 9:00 am Friday, January 3rd.  All deferred and supplementary exam applications should be submitted by 5pm Friday, January 3rd.  Students will be given a minimum of 48 hours notice for writing any such exam.  All exams will be written during the first week of classes, (January 6 – 10, 2014).

See link at "read more" for details.

 

November 2013 News

November saw the appointment of a new department head, Dr. Mark Berry, effective July 1, 2014.  See story for all our November news.

October 2013 News

October saw generosity in action in the department.  See story for details.

October

September 2013 News

September was a a very busy month in the department.  See our news story for details.

September

August 2013 News

Our 3rd Summer Student Symposium was a great success.  See our story for news on speakers and prize winners.  Other August news items are also included.

July 2013 News

We've two special prizes to highlight this month, see the news story for details

July

June 2013 News

This month we celebrate individual and group accomplishments.

June

May 2013 news

The highlight for the month of May was Spring convocation.  Read about that as well as our other events in the May news article.

May

April 2013 News

April 2013 saw the winding down of the term as exams were written and students looked forward to summer jobs.  See more news here.

April

Search for a New Head of Biochemistry

The search for a new Department Head has commenced anew.  Details and a copy of the job ad for distribution are available upon reading more...

March 2013 News

March was a quiet month in Biochemistry as the term wound down and exams approached.  Read about our happenings in the March news article.

March

February 2013 News

Preliminary meetings about space planning in the new Core Sciences Building occurred in February.  This is the beginning of a process that will take some years before we move into our new home.  Read about this and other departmental events in our February news article.

January

Christine's Birthday!!!
Today is Christine's Birthday, drop by and wish her well!!
January 2013 News

The start of a new year is a busy time as we welcome back in-progress students, and welcome aboard new ones. See item for a review of our January events.

December 2012 News
As the year 2012 ends we reflect on our activities for December. Reports for other months of the year are in our news archive.

2012


December

Notice for students who are considering applying for a deferred or supplementary exam
If you are considering applying for a deferred or supplementary exam, you should come by the Biochemistry Office (SN4006) and do so as soon as possible, and no later than Friday, January 4, 2013.
November 2012 News
November saw Fall semester classes end and students preparing for exams, just some of our activities this month.

November

October 2012 News
Our October news round-up lets you know about the busy month we've had here in the department.

October

September 2012 News
September is always a busy month as we start a new academic year. Please see our article to see the events of the month.

September

August 2012 News
Roofing, reunion, rehiring, registration, research, we've got R news and more for August.

August

Biochemistry Summer Symposium
The Biochemistry Summer Symposium will be held August 17, 2012. This event gives graduate students an opportunity to present their work by giving a short talk. Summer students including honours students may display posters on their lab projects. The guest speaker for the event is Dr. George van der Merwe of the University of Guelph. See the schedule linked here.
July 2012 News
Summer is a busy time in the Biochemistry Department and we've plenty of items to report on for July.
Havin' a Time Reunion
Schedule of events for the Department of Biochemistry section of the Memorial University of Newfoundland Reunion 2012 - Havin' a Time

July

Biochemistry seeks a new Head of Department
The search for a new Head of Biochemistry has begun. Applications for the position are now invited and should be submitted by August 1, 2012. The appointment is expected to take effect on January 1, 2013, or as soon thereafter as is mutually agreeable. Please read the full article for details.
June 2012 News
June brought a variety of events to us, happy and sad. See the full article for details.

June

May 2012 News
May is one of our busiest months as we celebrate convocation, welcome new graduate students starting in the Spring Semester, and hire summer students in research labs. See our full report for details.

April

April 2012 News
Our April 2012 news page includes our NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award results for this year, as well as other items of interest from the department.
New course offering for Spring 2012: Biochemistry 4230 / Biochemistry 6000
This course is a joint undergraduate and graduate course, titled “Advanced Topics in Lipids and Lipoprotein Metabolism”.
March 2012 News
Our March News page highlights a mix of beginnings and endings in the department; such is the life of an academic unit.

February

February 2012 Biochemistry happenings
A number of events occurred in the Biochemistry Department over the month of February. A new face, a returning face, and 40 years of service are all noted in the linked report.
Presentation of Original Thesis
Joyce O'Doherty presenting a copy of her deceased Husband's M.Sc. thesis to the department. The late Dr. O'Doherty was one of the first graduate students in the department.

January

Awards for two Biochemistry graduates
Two graduates of Biochemistry have recently received research awards. Danny Wadden, currently an M.Sc. student in the Faculty of Medicine, has received a Janeway Foundation award to study the roles of appetite and hormones in childhood obesity. Dr. René Jacobs, currently Assistant Professor at the University of Alberta, has received one of this year's Future Leader Awards from the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI).
Happy New Year!
The Department of Biochemistry welcomes everyone back from the Holidays and extends wishes to all for a productive and prosperous 2012. Students wishing to apply to write deferred or supplementary exams must do so by the end of business hours on Thursday January 5th.

2011


December

Closed for the Holidays
The Department of Biochemistry will be closed from early the morning of Friday, December 23rd and will reopen on Wednesday, January 4th 2012. All deferred and supplementary exam applications should be made as soon as possible after we reopen on January 4th and no later than Thursday January 5th. Happy Holidays, everyone!
Biochemistry Christmas Events & Holiday Information
To mark the season, two holiday events - a Christmas Coffee/Carol Sing-along hosted by the department’s General Office, and the department’s annual Christmas Social (including the second annual Graduate Student Society White Elephant gift exchange) will take place this week. The department will close early on the morning of Friday, December 23rd and will re-open on Wednesday, January 4th 2012.
November News in Review
November started with a Hallowe'en photo scavenger hunt and ended with three mo-sketeers raising funds for prostate cancer research. It was also the month which saw the passing of former Department Head, Dr. Sailen Mookerjea.

November

Sailen Mookerjea (1930-2011)
The Department of Biochemistry is saddened to announce that our colleague and former Head of Department, Sailen Mookerjea, passed away on 18 November 2011. (Updated)
Kindness October
Biochemistry department members participated in charitable giving in October.

October

A Nobel prize for dendritic cells
Immunologist honored for life's work on discovering dendritic cells and investigating how they work
Dr. Valerie Booth re-appointed to CRC Chair in Membrane Proteins
Dr. Valerie Booth's re-appointment as CRC (Tier II) Chair in Membrane Proteins has been announced by the Minister of State (Science and Technology).
Faculty of Science Awards
Biochemistry students were among those recognised at the annual Faculty of Science Awards ceremony held on Oct 05, 2011.

September

Gene transfer agents
On Oct 5th, Dr. Andrew Lang will present our next seminar on the subject of gene transfer agents in Rhodobacter.
ScienceM@tters and you...
ScienceM@tters is a program for science undergrads seeking career guidance and preparation. The deadline for applications is Thursday Sept 22.
Dr. Sue Ghazala on CBC Radio Noon
Dr. Sue Ghazala answered questions from listeners on the topic of processed foods on CBC Radio Noon CrossTalk this week.
New Website
Biochemistry has joined other departments in the Faculty of Science in unveiling a new look website.
Summer Symposium 2011
Nine excellent talks from graduate students and 5 posters from undergraduate summer students were presented at the first Biochemistry Summer Symposium held on 18 August 2011 at the Fluvarium. Timothy Hynes and Luke MacMillan received awards for their posters; and, James Pius and Nicole Smith received awards for their presentations.