To attract more students into the sciences the Biology and Chemistry Departments united their efforts to institute a modern advanced biochemistry laboratory course that provides a dynamic view of these sciences and opportunities for undergraduate research. The acquisition of centrifuges, electrophoresis equipment, and a polymerase chain reaction temperature cycler allows laboratory exercises to focus on contemporary projects and techniques that have sophisticated applications, yet are easily within the capabilities of an advanced undergraduate. The equipment is also used for other laboratories and for independent student research.