American Society for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Awards Full Accreditation to SUNY Potsdam’s Biochemistry Program
SUNY Potsdam graduate Ty Santiago ’17 conducts research on methods to administer chemotherapeutics through gold nanoparticles in Stowell Hall. The alumnus is now a postdoctoral fellow at Yale University.
SUNY Potsdam’s Department of Chemistry is pleased to announce that its Bachelor of Science degree program in biochemistry has been nationally accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB).
SUNY Potsdam’s biochemistry degree is one of only six programs accredited by ASBMB in New York State—including being the first within the SUNY System—and one of only 121 biochemistry programs in the nation to receive this recognition. The accreditation begins immediately following notification, and certification is now available for current students.
Programs that receive ASBMB accreditation undergo an independent evaluation using a national, outcomes-based process that recognizes excellence in B.S. or B.A. degree programs in biochemistry, molecular biology and related disciplines. Programs that are ASBMB accredited are acknowledged for upholding the highest standards of quality and innovation in biochemistry and molecular biology education.
“We are proud to have the ASMBM recognize the quality of our biochemistry program at SUNY Potsdam. They take a thorough look at our curriculum, faculty, student experiential learning opportunities and student post-graduate success. Our students receive hands-on learning experiences and fantastic opportunities for working with our faculty in undergraduate research experiences,” said Associate Professor Dr. David Gingrich, a biochemistry faculty member. “A biochemistry degree is excellent preparation for careers in biomedical and other related areas of research, biotechnology, plus health professions, such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and toxicology.”
Accreditation by the ASBMB requires that a biochemistry curriculum aligns with the foundational concepts and critical reasoning skills, and involves training in communication, teamwork, safety and ethics. It also includes student experiences in independent, mentored undergraduate research or cooperative experiences/internships.
An optional degree certification exam that demonstrates competitiveness against biochemistry peers from across the nation independent of institutional accreditation is offered for students graduating from the program.
“This will be an exciting advancement for our biochemistry program as we prepare students for a future in scientific innovation and leadership,” said Interim Dean of Arts and Sciences Dr. Shiho Imai.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow 15 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 4,000 openings for biochemists and biophysicists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is an organization of 11,000 members that includes researchers and scientist educators who have pioneered new discoveries in the molecular life sciences. These discoveries drive medical advances and therapies for many disorders and diseases, as well as in many other areas ranging from the environment to agriculture. For more information, visit www.asbmb.org.
To learn more about SUNY Potsdam’s biochemistry program, visit www.potsdam.edu/biochemistry.
SUNY Potsdam’s Department of Chemistry provides students with a rigorous education and meaningful research opportunities that prepare them for success in graduate studies and careers in the chemical and biochemical sciences. To find out more, visit www.potsdam.edu/academics/AAS/Chem.
To explore all of SUNY Potsdam’s programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, visit https://www.potsdam.edu/about/our-campus/study-stem.
About SUNY Potsdam:
Founded in 1816, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America’s first 50 colleges—and the oldest institution within SUNY. Now in its third century, SUNY Potsdam is distinguished by a legacy of pioneering programs and educational excellence. The College currently enrolls approximately 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its challenging liberal arts and sciences core, distinction in teacher training and culture of creativity. To learn more, visit www.potsdam.edu.
PHOTO 1: SUNY Potsdam’s Bachelor of Science degree program in biochemistry has been nationally accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
PHOTO 2: The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology has awarded accreditation to SUNY Potsdam’s baccalaureate biochemistry program.