Opportunities with BiologyDepartment of Biology

The Biology Department recognizes the value of immersive learning experiences and offers a range of opportunities for you to expand your skills and knowledge and build stronger relationships within the Biology community.

Discover the Opportunities with Biology

  • Research There are many ways to conduct research while you are studying Biology at Gustavus. Most of the courses include a lab, so you will have plenty of opportunity to develop essential research skills on campus. In addition, there is independent and summer research on campus and support to secure a research position in the summer off campus.

  • Facilities, Equipment, and Collections The Biology Department has state-of-the-art teaching and research spaces in the recently renovated and expanded Nobel Hall of Science to provide an exceptional learning experience and to conduct research.

  • Rubert Anderson Award in Systematics The Rubert Anderson Award in Systematics is an annual award granted to faculty-student collaborators to conduct work with one of the Biology Department collections. Faculty-student collaborators develop and submit a short proposal in which they outline plans to curate and present a portion of a collection on-line. This award is an opportunity for you to contribute to the department's educational objectives and learn about a particular taxon.

  • Tutors and Teaching Assistants The Biology Department provides academic support with student tutors and teaching assistants. Student Tutors have demonstrated proficiency in their coursework and are available to assist fellow students in understanding biology concepts for assignments and test preparation.Teaching assistants are selected to receive additional training and work in support of faculty and students, including designing lab sessions. Upperclass students interested in becoming tutors or teaching assistants, it is an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of biology and develop teaching and leadership skills. Students interested in these roles should typically consult with your faculty advisor. Taking advantage of the academic support provided can enhance your comprehension and overall learning experience.

    View the tutoring schedule

  • Beta Beta Beta - Biology Club On campus, the biology club is a chapter within the national biology honors society, the Iota Rho chapter, of Beta Beta Beta. Affectionately known as "Tri-Beta," all students may participate, although full membership is granted to students who meet the national criteria for the honor society. The chapter's main function is to celebrate the study of biology and foster biological research, and to have fun doing it!

  • Botany Club

  • Study Away Studying in another country can be a transformative experience as you explore new cultures, gain global perspectives, enhance language skills, and broaden your academic horizons. Work with your faculty advisor on how to fit studying away into your course planning and with selecting classes that can apply to the major. From studying in Australia to England, marine life to healthcare, you are encouraged to explore the options through the Center for International and Cultural Education.

  • Health Professions Careers For students interested in pursuing health professions, connecting with the Office of Health Professions early in your college career is highly recommended. The Office of Health Professions can provide specialized support and resources tailored to your interest in the health field. They can offer guidance on prerequisite coursework, application processes, standardized exams (such as the MCAT), and other requirements for pursuing careers in healthcare. Engaging with the Office of Health Professions can help you navigate the often complex path to medical training and increase your chances of success in your chosen healthcare profession.

  • Internships and Careers The Center for Career Development is a valuable resource when you are seeking assistance in finding internships and job opportunities. They offer various resources and tools to support career exploration and preparation.

    • Career Exploration Tools - The Center for Career Development offers online resources to explore different career paths related to their interests, skills, and academic backgrounds. They have information on industries, job roles, and potential career opportunities.
    • Resume, Cover Letter, Interviewing - The Center for Career Development can assist you by reviewing and improving resumes, cover letters, and help you prepare for interviews.
    • Internship Support - The Career Center provides guidance to help you secure an internship.
    • Job Search Resources - The Center for Career Development offers job search resources such as job boards, networking events, and career fairs. These resources can help students identify job opportunities, connect with potential employers, and navigate the job application process effectively.

  • Recommendation Letter Requests If you need a letter of recommendation for graduate school or a job, please complete this information and submit it to the faculty member whom you are asking to write the letter. This information will help the faculty write the strongest letter of support for you.