Course Overview

The Biological Sciences programs at the University of Chicago offer a rigorous and comprehensive education across undergraduate (BA, BS) and graduate (MS, PhD) levels. The curriculum emphasizes fundamental principles of biology, including molecular biology, ecology, evolution, and genetics, while encouraging interdisciplinary approaches through integration with fields like chemistry, physics, and computational sciences. Unique features include a strong focus on research from the undergraduate level, with opportunities to work in cutting-edge laboratories and participate in groundbreaking projects.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Biological Sciences programs are well-prepared for diverse careers in academia, industry, healthcare, and public policy. The programs foster critical thinking and research skills, positioning alumni for roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental conservation, and medical research. Many PhD graduates pursue postdoctoral positions or faculty roles at leading institutions.

Key Faculty and Staff

The Division of Biological Sciences at the University of Chicago includes renowned faculty members such as Dr. Jerry Coyne (Emeritus, Ecology and Evolution) and Dr. Victoria Prince (Developmental Biology). Faculty are often leaders in their fields, contributing to significant advancements in biological research.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Institute for Genomics and Systems Biology and the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole, an affiliate of the university. Partnerships with local institutions like Argonne National Laboratory provide additional resources for research in computational biology and biophysics.