From investigating genes and cells to studying ecosystems, we emphasize a strong foundation in biology that includes practical classroom, laboratory and field experiences.
Both programs benefit from Hood’s graduate programs in biomedical science, environmental biology and bioinformatics; seniors have opportunities to take advanced elective courses that are generally not offered at small liberal arts colleges.
Graduates have expressed that this provides a real head start for graduate school, medical school and the job market.
The Department of Biology is housed in the Hodson Science and Technology Center. Classrooms and labs are equipped with multimedia teaching tools, including access to web-based technologies. Specialized equipment and laboratories for ecology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell culture and physiology are available for course work and student-faculty research collaborations.
Students can conduct analyses using quatitative PCR, high-pressure liquid chromatography and other analytical instruments. A greenhouse and environmental chambers are available to grow and study plants.
A suite of labs is dedicated to the growth and maintenance of aquatic organisms. Computer-assisted analysis of data is used extensively in the curriculum, including environmental, general biology and molecular biology labs. Fluorescent microscopes, PCR thermal scyvlers, cell culture facilities, GIS mapping, satelite and imaging analysis are also available.
Anastazia Jablunovsky and Codi West presented their biofuels research at a symposium in October at UMBC.
Professor Daehwan Kim strives to help underrepresented students enjoy science and biology.