Canadian Professor Turns Biochemistry Into Viral Pop Parodies — and Students Can’t Get Enough
Most people don’t expect biochemistry class to feel like a concert — unless they’ve taken a course with Dr. Derek McLachlin.
The assistant professor at Western University in Ontario has become a sensation online after students shared clips of him breaking down complex biochemical pathways through clever pop-song parodies. And judging by the reactions, his musical approach is not only entertaining — it works.
Why Music Makes Lessons Stick
Science has long recognized the powerful connection between music and memory. Songs we haven’t heard in years can come back instantly, word for word. That same power is now being used in classrooms, helping students remember difficult material through rhythm, melody, and repetition.
Dr. McLachlin might be one of the best examples of how effective that method can be.
The Biochem Professor Who Teaches Like a Rockstar
His classes are filled with concepts that usually send students scrambling for study guides — ketone bodies, ATP, metabolic pathways, molecular reactions. But instead of relying solely on lectures, McLachlin rewrites famous pop hits with scientific lyrics, turning complicated topics into unforgettable moments.
One of the parodies that caught the internet’s attention was “I Love Ketone Bodies,” performed to the tune of a popular love song. Another helped students understand how ATP fuels the body, using a melody everyone knew by heart. He even reimagined a boy-band hit as “What Makes You Albumin,” explaining the key role the protein plays in transporting substances through the blood.
Students say the creativity pays off.
Former Students Are Singing His Praises
People from across the internet — including many of McLachlin’s former students — rushed to comment after a TikTok clip of him teaching went viral.
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“McLachlin is the reason I went into biochemistry 15 years ago! He used to show up to class dressed as Gandalf on Halloween. So glad he’s still amazing,” one person shared.
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“I had him four years ago, and his notes were the only ones that stuck,” another wrote.
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“Hated biochem, loved him as a professor,” said another.
Others commented on just how effective musical learning can be:
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“If something is taught in a song, I’ll remember it forever.”
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“I feel robbed — my degree didn’t come with this experience!”
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“He clearly prepares these at home. He puts his whole heart into it.”
People love not just the humor, but the passion behind the performances.
A Teacher Still Innovating After More Than a Decade
What stands out most is that Dr. McLachlin hasn’t slowed down. Students from over 15 years ago remember his enthusiasm — and he’s still creating new parodies today. Each rewritten song breaks down a difficult concept, making biochemistry approachable, memorable, and even fun.
Transforming dense scientific material into smooth, catchy lyrics is no small feat. Yet he continues to find ways to bring energy and joy into every lesson. His commitment to teaching — and to making students truly understand the material — is what makes his methods powerful.
And clearly, the world is noticing.