Course Overview

BioC 3022 -- Biochemistry is a college-level course designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of biochemistry, including the structure and function of biological molecules, bioenergetics, enzymology, and metabolic pathways.

Course Logistics

• Section: 001

• Meeting Times: 11:15 am – 12:30 pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays

• Location: 2-650 MHS

• Instructor: Doug Ohlendorf, Professor, Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biophysics

• Textbook: Essential Biochemistry, Pratt & Cornely (other texts may be used)

• iClicker: Required for in-class quizzes (install software on your iPhone)

• Scientific Calculator: Required for class and exams

Contact Information

• Office Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, 118 NHH, Minneapolis campus, or by appointment

• Phone: 612-799-1447

• Email: ohlen001@umn.edu (include “3022” in the subject or body)

• Response Policy: If no response in 24 hours, call the provided phone number

Teaching Assistants

• Sriya Bommidi: bommi008@umn.edu, (612) 757-3545

• Jonathan Grommesh: gromm001@umn.edu, (612) 804-1809

• Katherine Thies: thies155@umn.edu, (952) 463-6302

• Mix of in-person and Zoom support available

Course Website

• Platform: Canvas (http://myu.umn.edu)

• Resources Available:

  • Outlines and lecture slides

  • Recorded lectures

  • Discussion board

  • Practice quizzes

  • Extra credit assignments

  • Links to supplementary material

Course Policies and University Resources

• Consult the syllabus for detailed information on:

  • Course policies

  • Plagiarism

  • University policies

  • Mental health resources

  • Disability resources

  • Harassment policies

  • Topics for each lecture and required readings

  • Important dates for exams and assignments

Grading Criteria

• The course is divided into four sections.

• Exams:

  • Sections 1-3: 100-point exam for each section

  • Section 4: 150-point final exam (100 points on Section 4, 50 points on Sections 1-3)

• Assignments: 50 points total (4 problem sets, 57 points available)

• Extra Credit: 10 points (2 problems)

• Quizzes:

  • Short iClicker quiz in each lecture

  • Maximum quiz points: 50 (approximately 70 points available)

Grade Distribution (Target)

Grades on exams will be curved to conform with these targets.

Tips for Success

• Attend class regularly

• Review lecture outlines and slides before class

• Read textbook material in advance

• Study biochemistry daily

• Work on problems and study in groups

• Utilize online practice quizzes

• Seek help immediately if you have questions