Chemistry, Biology & Health Sciences
At South Dakota Mines, the Department of Chemistry, Biology, & Health Sciences provides students with a strong foundation in the chemical and biological sciences while addressing critical challenges in health, sustainability, and the environment. Through rigorous coursework, extensive laboratory experiences, and hands-on research opportunities, students develop a deep understanding of the natural world and the skills needed for success in a wide range of careers and graduate programs.
Chemistry majors may pursue concentrations in biochemistry or green chemistry, integrating core chemical principles with biological systems and sustainable technologies. These concentrations prepare students for careers in industry, research, environmental science, and healthcare, as well as advanced study.
Biology majors explore areas such as molecular biology and environmental biological sciences, gaining experience with modern biological and biotechnological approaches to addressing health and environmental challenges. Students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research and experiential learning throughout their program.
The pre-professional health sciences program at Mines offers a flexible pathway to advanced degrees in healthcare, including medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, and optometry. Built on a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, the curriculum — enhanced by interdisciplinary electives — prepares students with both the scientific knowledge and professional skills needed to excel in health-related fields.
Department Overview
Presentations in the department's seminar series are typically held on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters. Individuals from other departments or interested parties from the general public are welcome to attend. Details are sent via email to the campus community.
We encourage the students in our department to be active in the American Chemical Society student chapter, Student Biological Professional Society, Future Health Science Professionals, and other campus organizations and activities.
American Chemical Society (ACS)
The American Chemical Society is a self-governed individual membership organization
that consists of more than 163,000 members at all degree levels and in all fields
of chemistry.
The organization provides a broad range of opportunities for peer interaction, career
development, community service, and leadership skills regardless of professional or
scientific interest.
The purpose of ACS is to meet the needs of its members, foster scientific advancement,
and promote the public understanding of chemistry.
There are many benefits, technical and nontechnical, to joining ACS. These include
reduced fees to national and regional meetings, access to ACS journals and chemical
abstracts, continuing education opportunities, insurance programs, travel programs,
auto rental discounts, and much more.
The student chapter at South Dakota Mines is actively involved in many activities
such as National Chemistry Week, chemistry magic shows, and other social events.
South Dakota Mines is home to the Beta Phi Chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma, the nation's oldest professional chemical fraternity.
Membership is open to students from a variety of academic disciplines, including metallurgical engineering, geology, geological engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, mining engineering and management, environmental engineering, pre-health, and atmospheric sciences.
For more information, email AlphaChiSigma@mines.sdsmt.edu.
Research Labs & Centers
Contact Us
Amber Seidel
Program Assistant I
CBEC 2205, (605) 394-1233
Amber.Seidel@sdsmt.edu
Zhengtao Zhu
Department Head/Professor
CBEC 2206, (605) 394-2447
CBHS@sdsmt.edu
Department Head/Professor
CBEC 2206, (605) 394-2447
CBHS@sdsmt.edu
Biology Program Coordinator
CBEC 3316, (605) 394-2260
CBHS@sdsmt.edu
Rajesh K. Sani
Graduate Program Coordinator
CBEC 2211, (605) 394-1240
Rajesh.Sani@sdsmt.edu
Have more questions?
Dr. Zhengtao Zhu