Our philosophy is that biology is a science best learned by DOING biology.  At Lawrence, we want students to begin practicing the process of biological research right away.  During the first biology class at Lawrence, Integrative Biology: Principles, students design and carry out a group research project.  Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, students generate hypotheses, plan experiments, and then report their results in a symposium at the end of the term.  This approach of learning by active research permeates the biology curriculum.

The Lawrence biology department covers the breadth of the field.  Faculty members include those with expertise in animal physiology, botany, microbiology, terrestrial and aquatic ecology, molecular biology, and developmental biology.  All faculty members have active research programs that involve students during the academic year and in the summer.

The Biology Department occupies the connected third floor of Science Hall, built in 2000, and Youngchild Hall, built in 1964 and substantially renovated in 2001.  The most dramatic feature of these buildings is a three-story atrium that provides a gathering place for students and faculty and symbolizes the collaborative nature of the sciences at Lawrence.  In addition, teaching and research laboratories are set up to foster collaborative scholarship and are well-equipped with scientific instrumentation.  Lounges and conference rooms are located throughout the buildings to allow small group discussion and study.  Together, these facilities provide the physical space for cutting-edge research as well as a welcoming environment for instruction and learning.

Collaborative Research

Check out the awesome research opportunities in the Biology Department.

>>Collaborative Research Information