On this episode of the Fulfilling the Mission podcast, Brandon Isle sits down with Scott Johnson, the chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at BYU-Idaho, and James Edwards, a student majoring in Biochemistry. Throughout this conversation, they discuss what the department and degrees have to offer students at BYU-Idaho.
Scott Johnson's academic journey started with the desire to become a physician. But shortly after he returned home from his mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he realized that was not what he wanted to do. Following his interests, he took a biochemistry class, which he described as “the best class I’ve ever had in my life.” His professor took Johnson under his wing and let him do research with him. This sparked a passion and desire in Johnson to do this for the rest of his life.
He then got a job in the chemical industry at Georgia Pacific, and after working for more than two decades, a layoff became his turning point. It led him to BYU-Idaho in 2017, where he found renewed purpose in teaching and mentoring students.
“I’ve come to realize that the Lord used that experience to guide me here,” Johnson said. “It’s important for students to hear that life has setbacks—and that God can turn those into blessings.”
James Edwards, from Layton, Utah, has enjoyed science since he was a child. His path began at Weber State University with the desire to become a physicist. He shifted to biochemistry after discovering a deeper interest in applied science. He transferred to BYU-Idaho in 2022 and found both rigorous academic challenge and spiritual growth.
“I’ve learned to love telling people about science just as much as doing it,” Edwards said, who plans to teach high school science. “The experience here has strengthened me intellectually and spiritually.”
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry offers three bachelor's degrees: Chemistry, Biochemistry and Chemical Education. Biochemistry students receive a strong foundation in both chemistry and biology, opening doors to diverse career paths. They strongly emphasize the importance of internships and research through real-world lab experience.
Edwards is currently gaining real-world lab experience working for Living Essential Oils, where he analyzes the byproducts of essential oil distillation.
“Courses give you lab exposure, but research lets you go deeper,” Johnson said. “It helps students stand out when applying for jobs or grad school.”
Beyond academics, Edwards shares more of what he loves about his time at BYU-Idaho, the spiritual aspect—professors begin classes with prayer, post uplifting messages and mentor students on personal as well as professional levels.
“I get to talk about two of my favorite things in the classroom: organic chemistry and the gospel of Jesus Christ,” Johnson said.
This environment helps students develop both scientific understanding and spiritual conviction. Edwards echoed this: “As I’ve remembered Christ more in my decisions, I’ve come to know Him more.”
In line with BYU-Idaho’s mission to develop disciples of Jesus Christ who are leaders in their homes, the Church and in their community, the department strives to create disciple-leaders—graduates who are not only scientifically capable but spiritually grounded.
“Our small class sizes help us truly know and love our students,” Johnson said. “When people feel loved, miraculous things happen.”
Learn more about the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.
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