Beyond Basic Biology

Our department focuses on interdisciplinary education and diverse research opportunities to explore some of the most pressing scientific issues facing our world.

Undergraduate

Our undergraduate programs offer students a world-class education in the biological sciences that prepares them for bright futures.

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Graduate

We offer more than 15 degrees in seven focus areas at the master’s and doctoral levels, as well as a thriving research environment.

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Research

Research is an integral part of the educational experience in our department, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Explore our research

Nearly 500 Graduates

With almost 500 graduates in 2014-15, the Department of Biological Sciences is one of the largest academic departments at NC State.

Strategic Plan

The overarching goal of the Department of Biological Sciences’ Strategic Plan 2017-2022 is to achieve a learning and training environment for our students that is second to none and, in doing so, to provide the resources necessary for our faculty and staff to reach their full potential.
The Department’s Plan aligns with the University’s strategic plan with the following aims:

1) Enhance the success of our students through educational innovation
2) Enhance scholarship and research by investing in faculty and infrastructure
3) Enhance organizational excellence by creating a culture of constant improvement
4) Enhance local and global engagement through focused strategic partnerships.

Highlights of the Plan include the establishment of a Biological Sciences Center for Educational Excellence. The Center would drive research and innovation for evidence-based teaching and learning, provide opportunities for professional development, and support student and faculty interactions. The Plan identifies the need to provide authentic research experiences for all interested undergrads. That need is addressed by strategies to provide at least one semester of an authentic research experience to all undergraduate students.

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News

Jun 19, 2019

N.C. Study: Warmer Water Linked to Higher Proportion of Male Flounder

In the wild and in the lab, researchers find higher water temperatures lead to fewer female flounder, a cause for concern.

Jun 18, 2019

Crumpler Wins University Award for Excellence

Crumpler, a teaching technician in the Department of Biological Sciences, was one of 12 to receive NC State's most prestigious non-faculty honor.

Jun 18, 2019

How Dogs Evolved ‘Puppy Dog Eyes’

Researchers have discovered the secret of the "puppy dog eyes" dogs use to tug at human heartstrings.