Here at the Department of Biochemistry, scientific breakthroughs happen every day. Established in the 1920s, this department is a cornerstone of Oxford University’s Medical Sciences Division. It is known as one of the largest biochemistry departments in Europe.
The Department of Biochemistry started as a section within the Physiology Department. It gained its own building in 1927 thanks to a donation from the Rockefeller Foundation. Key figures like Benjamin Moore and Rudolph Peters shaped its early years. Later, Hans Krebs’s arrival in 1954 brought even greater prominence to the department. His research on cell metabolism significantly boosted its reputation.
The department expanded, incorporating genetics and molecular biophysics. Names like Rodney Porter, Walter Bodmer, and David Phillips became synonymous with its success. In 2006, older buildings like the Walter Bodmer and Rudolph Peters buildings were demolished. This demolition paved the way for the New Biochemistry Building. The Hans Krebs Tower followed in 2014.
Today, Francis Barr leads the Department of Biochemistry. He replaced Mark Sansom in 2019. The department now operates primarily from the Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin building. The Rex Richards building houses the NMR facility. Research here spans diverse areas like cell biology, genetics, and structural biology.
The department has around 400 research staff. They lead research groups that vary in size. The Biochemistry Department is dedicated to high-quality teaching and biomedical research. Several researchers have received international recognition. The department has been home to Nobel and Breakthrough Prize winners.
The New Biochemistry Building promotes collaboration. Its design encourages interaction among researchers. Transparent elevations showcase research spaces. Laminated glass fins enrich the facades. These fins reflect the colors of surrounding buildings. An informal atrium with sculptural staircases encourages chance encounters. Informal meeting areas link open-plan workspaces.
The Salt Bridges art program connects artists and researchers. Site-specific works explore the relationship between art and science. This program enhances the building’s architecture. Placing the new building’s picture on the Biochemistry website increased applicant numbers by 50%.
The Department of Biochemistry is committed to equality and diversity. It values the different backgrounds of its staff and students. The department strives to create an inclusive culture. It holds a Silver Award from the Athena SWAN Charter. This award recognizes its efforts to promote gender equality. As you explore the Department of Biochemistry, remember its history, its commitment to research, and its dedication to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. The Department of Biochemistry continues to advance our understanding of life’s fundamental processes.