Exploring Research Areas and Cutting-Edge Facilities in Biological Sciences
If you're a student interested in biological sciences, you'll be happy to know that our department has 14 research faculty, each with a fully equipped lab. Our faculty also receive support from various federal and private organizations, like the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and the Gates Foundation, to name a few.
In addition to individual faculty labs, we also offer shared facilities that include a confocal imaging suite, a sequencing and genomic analysis suite, tissue culture and bacterial culture facilities, and an advanced computer facility. These resources are available for collaborative research and support innovative discoveries.
Our department is proud to provide modern teaching facilities with the latest technology and equipment that match those found in faculty-led research projects. Our recently-renovated teaching labs create an interactive and collaborative environment for hands-on laboratory experiences, complementing classroom teaching. As a student, you can also participate in exciting faculty-led projects in one or more of the research areas below.
Research Areas
Research Areas in Biology
Are you interested in pursuing undergraduate or graduate-level research in Biological Sciences? Now is the perfect time to explore different research areas and find a project that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Take a closer look at the exciting projects currently underway in our faculty members' labs. From genetics and physiology to environmental biology and beyond, there are endless possibilities for you to dive into.
This is your chance to gain hands-on experience, work alongside experienced faculty mentors, and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community. Start exploring your options and find the project that ignites your passion for research!
Cell and Molecular Biology Genomics
If you're interested in studying genomes, cells and cell systems, and the molecules that regulate their functions, you might be interested in the fields of Cell and Molecular Biology or Genomics. This area of study covers topics like the life cycles, metabolism, and generation of genetically-coded complex macromolecules. It's especially relevant if you're considering a career in medicine, genetic counseling, or basic research.
Our department has Biological Sciences faculty who are experts in this area and can guide you in your studies.
- Jana Patton-Vogt: Membrane biogenesis and homeostasis
- Phillip Auron: Interleukin-1 and Toll Family receptors in mammalian immune cells
- Joseph McCormick: Cell division and genomic segregation
- John Pollock: Gene regulation during pain perception; pain intervention with nanomedicines
- Jill Dembowski: Molecular alteration of host cells by herpes viruses
Microbial Biology
If you're fascinated by microorganisms and their biology, ecology, and evolution, you might be interested in studying this field. It also covers mechanisms of pathogensis in infectious diseases which are relevant to careers in epidemiology, medicine, healthcare, ecology, or basic research.
Our Biological Sciences faculty have expertise in this area and can provide guidance as you pursue your studies.
- Jill Dembowski: Molecular alteration of host cells by herpes viruses
- David Lampe: Control of insect-transmitted diseases with genetically modified bacteria
- Wook Kim: Microbial ecology and interaction
- John Stolz: Microbial-mineral interactions in biofilms, microbial mats and stromatolites
- Nancy Trun: Bioremediation of toxic industrial sites
- Jopseph McCormick: Cell division and genomic segregation
- Jana-Patton-Vogt: Membrane biogenesis and homeostasis
Physiology and Organismal Biology
If you're interested in studying the comparative physiology, endocrinology, and developmental biology of different species to help with their conservation or to apply knowledge gained from one species to other related species, including humans, then this field might interest you. It's particularly relevant if you're considering a career in medicine, healthcare, or basic research.
Our Biological Sciences faculty have expertise in this area and can provide guidance as you pursue your studies.
- Sarah Woodley: Impacts of environmental stressors on animal health and disease
- John Pollock: Gene regulation during pain perception; pain intervention with nanomedicines
- Kyle Selcer: Physiology and pathology of steroid hormones & steroid hormone mimickers
- David Lampe: Control of insect-transmitted diseases with genetically modified bacteria
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
If you're interested in studying the population dynamics, evolution, ecology, and conservation of species, then this field might be perfect for you. It's particularly relevant if you're considering a career in zoology, ecology, conservation biology, population genetics, or basic research.
Our Biological Sciences faculty have expertise in this area and can guide you in your studies.
- Jan Janecka: Population genetics and genomics of wild felines
- Brady Porter: Ecology and conservation genetics of North American fishes and birds
- Michael Jensen-Seaman: Genetic basis of adaptation in humans, apes and other primates
- Kyle Selcer: Environmental endocrine disrupters
- John Stolz: Microbial-mineral interactions in biofilms, microbial mats and stromatolites