Biology and Chemistry are not just two departments that fall close together in the college catalog, they are disciplines that overlap at very basic levels. Biochemistry is the study of those areas of overlap. Davidson's Biology and Chemistry Departments were awarded a grant from The Merck Foundation/AAAS to support undergraduate research in biochemistry. To underscore the interdisciplinary nature of this research each Merck Scholar works with two faculty advisors, one in the chemistry department and one in the biology department, to study a variety of research questions.

The goal of Davidson's Undergraduate Research Program in Biochemistry is to provide an avenue for students to explore biochemistry through research, fieldtrips and discussions with experts in the field. Merck Scholars will gain experience as researchers and be better prepared to persue career goals in biochemistry or related fields. To achieve this goal the program has both summer and academic year components. Merck Scholars hold the position for a full year and are able to participate in all activities.

• Ten week paid summer internship at Davidson with additional money for research supplies
• Summer program includes weekly lunches and field trips to see how biochemistry is used in industry
• Dinners with seminar speakers during the academic year
• Funds to support attending and presenting your research at scientific meetings