Chemical Biology In this course we will explore scientific advances propelled by research at the interface of organic chemistry and molecular biology. The field of chemical biology involves the manipulation of biological macromolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates) using synthetic organic chemistry. These organic transformations are not used by nature and thus permit site-specific modifications that enable study or alteration of macromolecule function. Examples include antibody-drug conjugates for targeted chemotherapy and fluorescent probes of macromolecule interactions. In the lab, we will apply the techniques of chemical biology and ask new research questions. Fundamentals of molecular biology will be discussed as they pertain to our exploration of chemical biology. (CHEM 0205) (5 hrs lect., 5 hrs lab).

Biochemistry of Macromolecules This course is an introduction to biochemistry that focuses on the chemical and physical properties of amino acids, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. Specific topics include the structure and function of proteins, enzyme mechanisms and kinetics, how carbohydrates and lipids contribute to vital cellular and organismal functions, and informational biochemistry (DNA, RNA, and specific enzymes and processes leading to the production of regulatory RNA and proteins). Specific topics from the primary literature will be explored to illustrate how particular techniques and experimental approaches are used to gain a new understanding of biochemistry and molecular biology.

Biochemistry Laboratory In this course we will explore traditional methodology and techniques in a modern biochemistry laboratory setting. Students will become competent at working with major types of biomolecules, including isolating, purifying, and characterizing proteins, as well as completing independent research projects. Interpretation and presentation of scientific data will also be covered in both written and oral formats, focused on writing for a scientific audience. (CHEM 0322; CHEM 0211 or BIO 0145 strongly encouraged for all students and required for students matriculating in fall 2025 or later).

Linamarie Miller

Reviews and ratings for Linamarie Miller at Middlebury College.Linamarie Miller teaches Chemical Biology, Biochemistry of Macromolecules, Biochemistry Laboratory and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Linamarie Miller good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

I absolutely loved this class. I was nervous going in but Professor Miller brought such an amazing energy to class. I would take another class with her in a heartbeat if I could. Homework and exams were always fair and lecture always made sure we were prepared for assessments. 

The exams were a fair measure of what was covered in class but the material was also very fast paced. The material was tough but the slides were posted and helpful. Office hours were strongly encouraged and usually busy. the problems sets were good examples of the exams.

Prof Miller is super nice and fair. If you study the material on the slides you will do well on the exams. She was very clear in her expectations, even providing a list of topics to study for each exam. She is also very helpful in office hours. She made Biochem a lot less intimidating. 