Department of Biochemistry

University School of Sciences,

Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad - 380 009.

Phone : +91-79-26301491, Fax : +91-79-26308545

E mail : zooldeptgu@satyam.net.in

                       Director                              :           Prof. S. K. Menon

                                                          Faculty (Coordinators)      :         Dr. R. J. Verma

                                                                                                                Dr. H. N. Highland

Introduction

Brief History

The Department of Biochemistry was instituted as one of the departments of the School of Sciences in June, 1995. It was started under the coordinatorship of Prof. Y.K. Agarwal, former Prof. and Head of the Chemistry. M. Sc. Syllabus prepared was having 3 papers in M.Sc. Part -I and 3 papers in M.Sc. Part II. The department enrolls about 15 students in M.Sc. Part I. Postgraduate teaching was carried out by eminent faculties of different departments of School of Sciences and colleges. In August 2004, the University appointed two other coordinators (Dr. R.J. Verma and Dr. H. N. Highland). In June 2005 the syllabus was revised as per UGC guidelines for Biochemistry. Now the syllabus contains 4 papers at M.Sc. Part I and 4 papers at M.Sc. Part II. Practicals are based on theory. Dissertation and viva-voce has been introduced in M.Sc. Part II in lieu of one practical. The dissertation is incorporated with the aim to inculcate research ability in students. As Biochemistry is an interdisciplinary subject, the papers like Instrumentation and methodology, biostatistics, Plant Biochemistry, Microbial biochemistry etc. are added. The present syllabus will be run in collaboration with the Departments of Botany, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Microbiology, Statistics and Zoology of Gujarat University.

Present Scenario

Post Graduate students are going to be absorbed for further career in research and academics. Industry & research institute placement are positive responses of this course. Course covers applied and basic aspects of Biochemistry, Botany, Microbiology, Zoology and Molecular Biology.

Infrastructure and Facilities

Presently the department is housed in the building of the Department of Life Sciences. Separated building has been proposed for biochemistry. Infrastructure available in different Departments of School of Sciences is utilized for teaching and research work of the department. Rs. 6.00 lakh has been sanctioned in Xth Five Year plan for the purchase of the equipment which is in progress.

Highlight

Subject of biochemistry is an emerging interdisciplinary area which is useful in pharmaceutical industries and agriculture both nationally and globally. The students are provided with in-depth knowledge by the faculties who are expert in their respective subjects, which will additionally make them aware about the latest research trends on the same. The new syllabus being interdisciplinary makes the student multi-faceted which is not the traditional trend of teaching. Presently two coordinators are looking the course. One post of lecturer has been sanctioned. The recruitment is in the process.

Courses Offered                                       

Course Name                                        : Master of Science (Biochemistry)

Course Type                                          : Grant in Aid

Intake                                                   : 15 students

Eligibility                                               : T.Y. B.Sc. with Biochemistry

Subject Offered                                      : M.Sc. Part-I

                                                              1. Instrumentation and Biostatistics      

                 2. Cell Biology and Physiology             

  3. Bioenergetics and Intermediary Metabolism

                 4. Plant Biochemistry

                 M.Sc. Part -II

                   5. Enzymology and Immunology

                  6. Molecular Biology

                  7. Microbial Biochemistry

                                                               8. Clinical Biochemistry

Duration                                                 : Two year full time course.

                                                                Pattern -M.Sc. Part-I & Part-II.

Course Commencement                          : July

Admission Process                                : By Merit.

Fees                                                     : Grant in Aid Structure

Course Offered at                                   : Department of Zoology, School of Sciences

Future Career Opportunity                       : Teaching in University, College and Schools.

                                                             1) R & D and Q & C at research institute &                                                   Pharmaceutical industry.

                                                             2) Abroad opportunity.

                                                             3) Course match with CSIR-UGC-NET Life                                               Science Syllabus.

Course Name                                         : M.Phil. & Ph.D  (Likely to start shortly).

Course Type                                          : Grant in Aid

Intake                                                    :According to faculty status who are recognized                                       Guide for Ph.D in Life Sciences.

Eligibility                                                : M.Sc. with 55 % in Biochemistry.

Subject Offered                                      : Life Sciences.

Specialization                                        : Special field of research guide.

Duration                                                 : Minimum 2 Years extendable into 5 Years.

Course started                                       : -

Admission process                                 : By merit according to consent of recognizing                                           guide at department & affiliated research                                                    institute.

Fees                                                     : Grant in Aid.

Course offered at                                    : Department of Zoology, School of Sciences

Future Career Opportunity                       : Research/ Scientific Officers/ Personnel at various center   eligible for Post Doctoral in Sciences, Agricultural and paramedical.

Faculty

Name                                       :           Dr. R. J. Verma

Qualification                            :           M.Sc., Ph.D.

Designation                             :           Co-ordinator

Areas of Specialization            :          Zoology, Physiology, Endocrinology, Toxicology

Contact No.                              :           26301491 (O) 26301105 (R )

Name                                       :           Dr. (Mrs.) H. N. Highland

Qualification                            :           M.Sc., Ph.D.

Designation                             :           Co-ordinator

Areas of Specialization            :          Zoology, Fishery Biology, Animal Biotechnology

Contact No.                              :           26301491 (O) 26856399 (R )