About The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Utah State University’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry brings together teaching and research in the chemical sciences. The department offers undergraduate and graduate programs in chemistry and biochemistry, covering core areas like organic, analytical, physical, and biochemistry. Students receive a strong foundation in both theory and lab skills, with opportunities to learn directly from faculty who are active in research.
Alongside classroom instruction, the department places a strong emphasis on research experience. Students often work in faculty labs on projects ranging from molecular biology and materials chemistry to environmental and biomedical research. This combination of coursework and hands-on work helps students develop practical scientific skills and prepares them for careers in industry, healthcare, education, or further graduate study.
One area of active research comes from Professor Ryan Jackson and his students. Their work focuses on lesser-known CRISPR systems, including Cas12a2 and Cas12a3, which differ from more familiar CRISPR tools because they target RNA instead of DNA. By investigating how these systems are built and how they function, the lab contributes to a deeper understanding of CRISPR biology and its potential applications in science and medicine.
This type of research also connects directly to real-world impact. Jackson’s group, working with students and international collaborators, has helped uncover new insights published in leading scientific journals. Their findings may support the development of faster and more accurate diagnostic tools for diseases such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, while also giving students valuable experience working on cutting-edge biochemical research.
