Research in Biology

Catalog description

Introduction to independent research. We will build a scientific community to support one another in proposing a testable biological question and carrying out the field or lab work to answer the question. You will practice the full scientific process; generating hypotheses, designing methods, troubleshooting, collecting data, interpreting and communicating your findings. Field time will be primarily dedicated to independent research where you will be in charge of your own data collection. Classroom sessions include discussions of primary literature, data analysis, peer feedback, and lectures on statistics, programming, and presentation skills. At the end of the course, students will present their research in a symposium and submit a written report in the style of a brief scientific article.