Push the boundaries of knowledge
The department of Chemistry and Biochemistry provides a personal, attentive environment where students can develop and pursue a flexible program of study designed to fulfill individual interests and needs. We are a community of faculty, staff, students and alumni dedicated to excellence in chemical education. Through cutting-edge education, research and community-impact, you will attain a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge and laboratory skills necessary for careers in industry, forensics, academia, as well as graduate education in chemistry, biochemistry, medicine, veterinary medicine and dentistry.
Dr. Montgomery prepares students for bigger goals in science
His mentorship propels graduates to thrive at leading biopharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and gain acceptance into prestigious graduate programs. For graduate student Alex Cocolas, the ideal lab experience blends rigorous challenges with the freedom to cultivate curiosity, broadening his scientific perspective and expanding his horizons.
Navigate Your Own Path To Discovery
Develop innovative solutions to scientific challenges while preparing for a future in industry, academia, medicine and graduate education.
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
We offer four distinct majors, each blending rigorous coursework, hands-on training with cutting-edge chemical instrumentation, and a robust independent research experience. Our graduates are well-prepared to pursue professional careers in chemical and molecular sciences or to advance their studies through higher degrees.
4+1 DUAL DEGREE PROGRAM
Discover your love for chemistry and elevate your competitive advantage through our BS/MS in Chemistry dual degree. This all-encompassing program integrates coursework, specialized training, and research prospects across analytical, organic, inorganic, physical, and biochemistry.
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
Graduate students have abundant opportunities to work with highly qualified faculty, conduct both supervised and independent research, secure research funding, present at conferences, and benefit from excellent mentorship. These experiences ensure they are well-prepared for careers in academia, government and industry.
Start Here, Go Anywhere
Summer Research Program
With a paid internship through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program, you’ll gain essential research experiences for careers in STEM-based fields.
Research Areas
Explore interdisciplinary fields in biochemistry, organic, physical, materials, inorganic, analytical, forensic, and biophysical chemistry, all within our state-of-the-art 20,000-square-foot research facility equipped with cutting-edge instrumentation.
Duquesne University is nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh, a city with 90 diverse
neighborhoods where everyone can be themselves. Repeatedly ranked among the most livable
cities, Pittsburgh offers a vibrant mix of opportunities just a few blocks from campus,
including Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations, and startups for work —
and three major league sports teams for play! The School of Science and Engineering is a vibrant center for discoveries that benefit
society, featuring eight departments, numerous research centers, abundant undergraduate
research opportunities, and a rapidly growing funded-research budget. Our strong partnerships
in Pittsburgh and around the world further enhance our collaborative initiatives. Hear directly from our Chemistry & Biochemistry students as they share their Duquesne
experiences, mentorship stories and passion for research. Chair and Professor, Henry Koren, C.S.Sp. Endowed Chair in Scholarly Excellence, Chemistry
and Biochemistry Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Chemistry and Biochemistry Associate Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Professor, Lambert F. Minucci Endowed Chair in Engineering and Computational Sciences,
Chemistry and Biochemistry Co-Coordinator of the Organic Chemistry Laboratories, Co-Advisor of the American Chemical
Society Student Affiliates, Chemistry and Biochemistry Dean, School of Science and Engineering Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Teaching Associate Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Emeritus Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Teaching Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Teaching Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Stockroom Manager, Co-coordinator of the General Chemistry Laboratories and Co-advisor
of the ACS student affiliates, Chemistry and Biochemistry Associate Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry Financial Coordinator, Chemistry and BiochemistryFeatured content
Study in a Dynamic and Thriving Location
Get Hands-On Research Experience
The Student Experience
Faculty and Staff
Mihaela Rita Mihailescu, Ph.D.
Jennifer Aitken, Ph.D.
Bruce Beaver, Ph.D.
Scott Boesch
Michael Cascio, Ph.D.
Jeffrey Evanseck, Ph.D.
Timothy Evans, Ph.D.
Ellen Gawalt, Ph.D.
David Heisler, Ph.D.
Paul Lummis, Ph.D.
Thomas Montgomery, Ph.D.
Alicia Paterno, Ph.D.
David Seybert, Ph.D.
Emily Sylvester, Ph.D.
Stephanie J. Wetzel, Ph.D.
Nithya Vaidyanathan, Ph.D.
Michael Van Stipdonk, Ph.D.
Tina Vowcheck
Graduate Student Publications
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Protein Mapping in Neurobiology: Former graduate students from the Cascio Lab, Dr. Rathna Veeramachaneni, Chelsee Donelan, and Dr. Kayce Tomcho, developed a method to study the structural linkages of the human α1 glycine receptor (α1 GlyR), a protein critical to nerve cell communication. Using a novel reactive site, chemical linkers and UV light, their research sheds light on the protein's natural configuration within cell membranes.
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Understanding SARS-CoV-2 Mechanisms: Alumni Dr. Caleb Frye and Dr. Caylee Cunningham explored how SARS-CoV-2 interacts with human cellular mechanisms. Their findings provide insight into how the virus causes illness, potentially paving the way for innovative treatments.
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Advancements in Uranium Chemistry: PhD candidates Samuel Lenze and Justin Terhorst investigated uranium ion reactions in their study, "Creation of Gas-Phase Organo-Uranium Species by Removal of 'yl' Oxo Ligands from UO₂²⁺ Carboxylate Precursor Ions." Their work advances nuclear science by introducing new properties and reactions of uranium under controlled conditions.
One of the benefits of attending a Catholic university is that it’s easy to go
to the chapel. When I feel like I’m getting burnt out, I can spend time with campus
ministry. And Duquesne is the right size, so everyone can feel involved and connected.
"As an international student pursuing my personal and professional dreams in
the United States, I was struck by the abundance of opportunities available to students
at Duquesne—one that may not be as readily accessible in many countries around the
world. It was a moment of realization that ignited a spark within me and opened my
eyes to a wider sense of possibility."
Hear From Our Students
Questions? Contact Us!