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Research Experiences

Integration of undergraduate research experiences into the biology curriculum

students in fieldResearch is such an integral part to learning science that the biology program embedded research experiences throughout the four-year core curriculum so that all students get this opportunity. These experiences are more than just conducting experiments, but also about developing the written and oral communication skills necessary to present your findings.

 

[During a graduate school interview]…….

"I explained what all of the experiences within the program entailed…. He was surprised that such a small university would require that of their undergrads……After that, I took a deep breath and realized that I could do this!" Jenna Carlson, Class 2013.

The Biology Program Core curriculum: Why we do what we do!

An explanation of some core courses
1st year

Biol 200 and Biol 201 is a year-long introductory sequence emphasizing the basic concepts of biology. Lab experiences focus on basic hypothesis development, experimental design, and data analysis at the introductory level.

2nd year

Biol 287: Sophomore seminar teaches students how to properly search scientific databases, read, analyze, and evaluate scientific literature; skills necessary as students begin the research process.

Biol 302 Lab provides students with their first experience at independent research. Student groups must use scientific literature to create a research proposal and properly design a month long experiment. Student must conduct the experiment, analyze data, and write a report in article format. Students must also create a poster presentation of the experiment that is presented at the Undergraduate Research Conference.

3rd year

Biol 311 Lab provides students with a more advance research experience. Student groups must use scientific literature to create a research proposal for a semester long experiment. Student must conduct the experiment, analyze data, and write a report in article format. Students orally present their work at the Undergraduate Research Conference.

Biol 487: During Senior Seminar, students conduct an extensive literature review of a topic of their choice; not only summarizing but evaluating the research on their topic. Students present their findings in both oral and written formats.

 

 

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