Types of Biology Research
Biology, as a discipline, is the study of living organisms. Nevertheless, the type of research done in the field of biology can look very different, as there are numerous sub-disciplines and specialties.
Molecular Biology
Cell Biology
Developmental Biology
Evolutionary Biology
Genetics
Ecology
Microbiology
Biotechnology
Listed below are some of these, to give you an idea about the many research opportunities offered here at WashU.
Molecular Biology
Studying the structure and function of biological molecules, such as DNA, RNA, and proteins, and how they interact within cells.
Cell Biology
Investigating the structure, function, and behavior of cells, including cell division, differentiation, and cellular processes.
Developmental Biology
Exploring how organisms grow, develop, and differentiate from a single cell to a complex organism.
Evolutionary Biology
Studying the processes of evolution, including natural selection, speciation, and the patterns and mechanisms of biodiversity.
Genetics
Studying inheritance, variation, and the molecular basis of traits, including the study of genes, genomics, and genetic engineering.
Ecology
Examining the interactions between organisms and their environment, including population dynamics, community structure, and ecosystem function.
Microbiology
Investigating microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, including their physiology, genetics, pathogenicity, and ecological roles.
Biotechnology
Applying biological knowledge and techniques to develop new products, tools, and methods for various applications, such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Within these diverse areas, research can look very different and require different skillsets or techniques, as shown in some examples of research conducted at WashU in the past.
Ecology Research on Biodiversity
Ecologists might study the impacts of habitat loss and fragmentation on biodiversity by conducting field surveys to assess species richness and distribution in different ecosystems.
Research on Cancer Treatment
Scientists may investigate the underlying genetic and molecular mechanisms of different types of cancer to develop targeted therapies. They might explore the effectiveness of specific drugs or treatments on cancer cells in the laboratory or in animal models.
Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
Researchers may develop algorithms to analyze biological data, such as genomic sequences or protein structures. They might design tools for data analysis and predict protein structure and function.
Medical Device Development
Biomedical engineering researchers work on designing, developing, and improving medical devices and technologies used in diagnosis, treatment, or monitoring of diseases. This can include devices such as artificial organs, prosthetics, and wearable sensors.
These are but a few examples of the diversity within biological research. Washington University and its affiliated partners (ex: St. Louis zoo, MO Botanical Gardens, Siteman Cancer Center, and so many others) provide a wealth of potential opportunities, and we are here to help get you started!
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