Biology Department
The biological sciences play a key role in human society from the conservation of biodiversity to medicine. The Department of Biology strives to cultivate an exciting academic environment to study, research, and contemplate the broad spectrum of the life sciences. Our teaching philosophy is founded on a belief in the value of a personal educational experience, achieved through small classes and laboratories, and opportunities for independent study and research. Faculty embrace the Teacher-Scholar model, and pursue varied research interests with student collaborators.
Our curriculum is designed to promote effective scientific communication, the understanding and use of the scientific method, the understanding of the major concepts in biology, the use of the tools and techniques of science, and an understanding of the scientific literature. An important aspect of science education at Washington & Lee is hands-on experience, including independent research experience. Many of our courses include laboratory and/or field work, often incorporating original research projects.
Our majors receive a broad education in the biosciences. Our graduates are competitive for entry to graduate programs, medical and other professional programs, and employment in all sectors of research, development and commerce.
We also provide opportunities for students in all academic programs to gain a greater appreciation for the nature of science and its impacts on society, in keeping with the liberal arts tradition of broadly educated individuals.
There are five vehicles for student research:
- Directed Individual Study (BIO401-403)
- Directed Individual Research (BIO422-424)
- Honors Thesis (BIO492-496)
- , which enables students to spend the summer doing research full-time with the faculty scientists of their choice
- HHMI Research Fellows Program, which provides students with a more significant research experience with funding for a two-year period
In addition to our in-house curriculum, students can take advantage of programs off campus. These include our popular fall semester program at , as well as the . All credits earned in these programs apply to the biology major at ÄûÃÊÊÓƵ.
Isabel Duarte ’26 found a path at W&L that blends music and science in perfect harmony.
Marsh will work with Nature Camp in Vesuvius, Virginia, and Jones will collaborate with the Legal Aid Justice Center for the 25th Judicial District.
The article, also featured on the journal’s cover, sheds new light on the value of bison recovery efforts in Yellowstone National Park.
Summer Research Scholars Brian Kim ’26 and Ansley Stotts ’27 have spent their summer conducting field research in a unique outdoor classroom.
Bill Hamilton discusses wildlife migration in Yellowstone National Park.
The 13-lined ground squirrels currently residing in the Science Center for associate professor of biology Jessica LaPrice’s research have inspired a cross-campus collaboration that showcases W&L’s emphasis on hands-on learning.
One of the Class of 2025 valedictorians, Linen will work as a medical assistant for a year while interviewing for physician assistant programs.
Dr. Charles Frankum ’90 lays claim to being one of the few surgeons in the country who flies himself to appointments at rural hospitals.
These faculty have been recognized for their outstanding teaching, scholarship and service to the university.
Duarte has embraced leadership development through the Choral Conducting Mentorship Program.
Barr’s love of nature led her to a biology major and getting her scuba certification with the Outing Club.
The solo exhibition will open Jan. 9 with an artist’s talk slated for Jan. 14.