One of the missions of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is to provide a research experience for majors in Biochemistry. Students are eligible to receive departmental honors at graduation if they complete a research project under the supervision of a faculty member in addition to other requirements.

Upon completion of the honors requirements a student will receive cum laude, magna cum laude, or summa cum laude honors in Biochemistry at graduation depending on the quality of their research work.

Program Requirements

• A GPA of 3.2 at the completion of course work
• Present your research at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Day held at Sevilleta, New Mexico
• Submit your senior honors thesis. 
• Complete 6 hours of research credit (Biochem 497, 498). 

How to begin your honors research

Students usually start their research experience at the end of the second year of course work. However, interested students may begin earlier depending on their interest and the availability of research mentors.  The first step is to make an appointment with the Director of Undergraduate Research for the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology for advisement in selecting a research mentor. 

Director of Undergraduate Research

Students who qualify for honors are eligible to receive one of the Robert B. Loftfield Awards that are presented to senior students for outstanding academic or research performance.  These awards are named for Professor Emeritus Robert B. Loftfield, the first Chair of the Biochemistry Department, and are presented at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology commencement ceremony. 

Loftfield Award Recipients

For more information contact the
Director of Undergraduate Research

B&MB Research Form (Request to register for research credit. Right-click and Save As)