We have designed a new guided-inquiry laboratory for an advanced biochemistry course. This integrated laboratory focuses on the biomolecule tRNA[superscript Phe] and combines elements of bioorganic and bioinorganic chemistry with biochemistry. Throughout the semester students work together to study tRNA[superscript Phe] structure and ligand binding by (i) assaying metal-catalyzed hydrolysis using gel electrophoresis; (ii) probing thermal denaturation with UV-vis spectrophotometry; and (iii) characterizing ligand associated changes in conformation via fluorescence spectroscopy. Students begin the course with a common laboratory experience and then diverge into parallel projects, ending with a novel self-designed project. In their final report, students interpret experimental results from the entire class and draw conclusions regarding the effects of various ligands on the structure of tRNA[superscript Phe]. (Contains 1 scheme, 2 tables, 13 figures and 6 notes.)