Studying Biology at Kenyon
Biology students at Kenyon learn to make connections between life processes, with their work rooted in discoveries they make in the laboratory. Beginning in the first year of study, biology students are engaged in lab and research projects of consequence that are unparalleled in most undergraduate biology programs.
Led by, and collaborating with, faculty who are leaders in their field, biology students conduct research that leads to breakthroughs in fields ranging from health care to the environment to agriculture. The discovery occurs year-round, as the labs of Higley Hall are filled after the academic year ends with Summer Science Scholars conducting research projects.
Featured Courses
Seminar in Restoration Ecology
What does long-term restoration of a major ecosystem like the Everglades look like? How do we predict how an ecosystem will respond to restoration efforts? This course examines the theory and practice of restoration ecology. Explore causes of ecosystem degradation, methods to quantify ecosystem response, concepts including ecological integrity, ecosystem resilience and alternative stable states.
Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
Why does a fish look like a fish? Or a giraffe like a giraffe? Using both comparative and functional approaches, consider questions of how and why vertebrates came to be structured the way they are and study how the anatomy of vertebrates has evolved and diversified over hundreds of millions of years.
Health Service and Biomedical Analysis
In this community-engaged learning course, students volunteer at the local hospital, fire department and other healthcare providers, and read and critique articles on topics ranging from drug addiction to influenza transmission. Assignments include keeping a journal and class presentations related to community service.
Cancer Biology
Cancer, a collection of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell division, is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Investigate the molecular, genetic and cellular basis of cancer, including the role of mutagenesis in development of cancers. Learn how knowledge of basic cancer biology can be leveraged to develop novel treatment methods.
Futures in Science
At Kenyon, students collaborate with faculty experts on research opportunities that hold the potential to change the world. In year-long programs and intensive summer projects, student researchers get specific, go deep, and immerse themselves in big questions.
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110students a year pursue College-funded research projects in the humanities, natural sciences and social sciences.
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Futures in Medicine
More than 90 percent of Kenyon applicants with solid grades and test scores are accepted to medical school. Learn more about premed advising.
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$1Mgrant from the the Howard Hughes Medical Institute
The grant is one of several that Kenyon scientists have earned to foster a more inclusive and diverse scientific community.
Life as a Biology Major
The biology department has its own distinct ethos. As a student, you'll be part of traditions and practices that shape our community:
- Discuss science, careers and research with scientists from other institutions through the Biology Seminar Series.
- Catch up with your favorite faculty at the fall biology picnic.
- Nosh on pizza at the Bio Journal Club while students and faculty delve into the latest research on topics ranging from plant physiology to the human genome.
- Honor the father of evolution with cake and song at the annual Darwin Day celebration.
- Dive deep into your Bio 110 independent research project, a spring rite of passage for all beginning biology students.
- Bring your creative energy to Lyceum, the student literary journal focused on science and the natural world.
Higley Hall
Kenyon College
Gambier, Ohio 43022