Research

The Department of Biology faculty are leaders in their fields, expanding knowledge and leading in groundbreaking discoveries. Research activity spans the full range of biological organization, from neurobiology to ecosystems. Many faculty members actively participate in interdisciplinary research programs including chemistry and forensics.

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Biochemists and molecular biologists study the chemical realm inside cells to understand the genetic and molecular bases of cellular processes. Biochemistry and molecular biology together have grown to encompass virtually the entire spectrum of science, from physics and chemistry to biology and medicine. Researchers in these fields study life on every level, from individual molecules to mammals.

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Faculty Researchers

Bioinformatics, Genetics, Genomics and Evolutionary Biology

Genomics and bioinformatics researchers develop new techniques, including experimental protocols and data analysis algorithms to enable a deeper understanding of complex biological systems. The field is entering a new and exciting era; rapidly improving “next-generation” DNA sequencing technologies now allow for the routine sequencing of entire genomes and virtually any targeted set of DNA or RNA molecules.

Bioinformatics, Genetics, Genomics and Evolutionary Biology Faculty Researchers

Biology Education

Biology is the study of the structure, function, heredity and evolution of all living things - microorganisms, fungi, plants and animals. Biology education focuses on the teaching of biology at a high school level. Students learn the curriculum and methods of teaching biology.

Biology Education Faculty Researchers

Cell and Developmental Biology

Cell biology and developmental biology are interdependent fields of biomedical research, with advances in one field pushing the boundaries of the other in the pursuit to understand the biological processes that underlie cellular function and embryonic development. Cell and developmental biology are leading discovery in the biological and medical sciences.

Cell and Developmental Biology Faculty Researchers

Ecology

Ecology is the branch of biology dealing with the relations and interactions between organisms and their environment.

Ecology Faculty Researchers

Forensic Biology

Forensic biology is the application of biology to law enforcement. It includes the sub-disciplines of forensic anthropology, forensic botany, forensic entomology, forensic odontology and various DNA or protein-based techniques.

Forensic Biology Faculty Researchers

Neurobiology, Behavior and Physiology

Behavior is adaptive and determinant of survival, both at individual and species level. Understanding the physiological basis of behavior is produced requires a multidisciplinary approach that is ultimately of great benefit for human health.

Neurobiology, Behavior and Physiology Faculty Researchers

Plant Science

Plant science researchers address the world’s agricultural, ecological and environmental needs.

Plant Science Faculty Researchers