Mission Statement
The overall mission of the Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics,
and Molecular Biology (BBMB) is to investigate and understand the molecular
mechanisms underlying biological processes as explained by the principles
of chemistry and physics. Synergistic programs in teaching and research
accomplish this mission. Undergraduate and graduate instruction emphasizes
the fundamental relationships among the chemical, physical, and biological
sciences. Basic research is the hallmark of the departmental mission,
providing the knowledge that is essential for continual progress in
the applied agricultural- and biomedical sciences. These two aspects
of the mission are merged by involvement of students at all levels in
primary research activities, and by a teaching approach that strives
to promote rigorous and critical thought.
Research Mission
The research mission of the Department is focused in related areas that
encompass biochemistry, biophysics, molecular and structural biology.
The Department of BBMB produces novel discoveries that are highly significant
to the worldwide biomedical and agricultural research efforts. The faculty
are funded by the major federal competitive funding agencies and publish
in journals with the highest international impact. The Department also
seeks to integrate its basic experimental research activities directly
with State of Iowa industries.
Teaching Mission
Student learning is of paramount importance
in the Department’s program design. The teaching mission includes broad
contribution to the physical- and life sciences training programs at
Iowa State University. BBMB faculty teach graduate and undergraduate
courses in biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, and interdisciplinary
programs, emphasizing the ways that biological mechanisms are founded
on chemical and physical principles. Students are prepared to pursue
professional careers in a variety of academic and industry environments,
and to serve society as broadly educated individuals. Undergraduates
are also engaged in discovery-based learning by participating directly
in the primary research activities of the Department.
Outreach Mission
The Department has a significant outreach
mission in frequent and open communication with the public of Iowa.
Basic research contributes significantly to this mission by providing
the knowledge on which society can draw in the future to meet challenges
dictated by limited global resources. Additionally the Department’s
outreach mission includes direct efforts to stimulate economic development
within the State of Iowa, by bringing basic research results to bear
on applied research and development.
