This field is intended for students who wish to acquire the detailed knowledge and practical skills needed for the study of the molecular mechanisms of metabolic processes that take place in solution biological membranes and living cells, and during the various types of biochemical analysis (identification of biomolecular structures and analysis of their composition, continuous monitoring of substrates and products in ongoing enzyme reactions, or analysis using biological principles of detection). Experienced personnel at the Department of Biochemistry provide specialized instruction in the areas of metabolism of bacteria and fungi (aerobic respiration and identification, bacterial oxidation of sulfur-based materials, interaction of parasitical fungi with plants), structural and functional enzymology and biochemical analysis (development of new methods of separation, use of biosensors in measuring environmental pollutants, and clinically important metabolites). The palette is broadened through cooperation with the Research Institute for Veterinary Medicine in Brno (immuno-chemical methods, liposomes, vaccines, metabolic transformations of xenobiotics) and with several institutions abroad. The field of biochemistry is distinctive for its open and interdisciplinary character; classical biochemical methods are frequently combined with methodology from other disciplines such as microbiology, molecular biology, informatics, and bio-physics. This improves graduates’ adaptability and the ability to apply their skills. The goal of studies is to prepare highly-qualified personnel for research work in the field of biochemistry. During the initial period students attend selected lectures, and through consultation deepen and solidify the necessary theoretical foundations above and beyond the framework of the preceding master’s level. At the same time the student conducts independent literary research on the topic of his doctoral dissertation, during which the student should learn effective use of the databases currently available from the Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, and Moravian Regional Library fund of books and journals, inter-library services, and in some cases direct communication with the authors of publications. The main activity of the students is their own experimental work, as well as active participation in the school’s research projects. However, students are also encouraged to independently prepare proposals for sub-projects, and to enter them in public competitions. They should be highly skilled in processing acquired data, and its interpretation and subsequent presentation in various forms (presentation at seminars and conferences, publications). Emphasis is placed on improving the ability to express one’s self in a foreign language, especially English (conferences, short study stays abroad).