The major in Cell and Molecular Biology is designed for students interested in exploring the features and activities of cells, genes, and biomolecules which are the most fundamental constituents of all living things. The major attracts those who are curious about the mechanisms by which living systems function, develop, and interact with their environment. Some students are attracted to the major by a desire to investigate new biological principles, whereas others are interested in applying molecular principles and methods to solve practical problems facing medicine and biotechnology. A love of and fascination with living systems is essential.
We expect the highest degree of academic performance from our students as many students will continue their education in medical or graduate school. Research in biology is especially appealing to those who derive pleasure from elucidating general principles that apply to all living systems through experimentation with relatively simple model systems. This requires a creative mind, the fortitude to conduct repetitive work and the ability to analyze, distill, and interpret data.
