Recommended Destinations for Biology
Queensland, Australia
Copenhagen, Denmark
Norwich, England
Freiburg, Germany
Galway, Ireland
Maastricht, Netherlands
Biology
Where Curiosity Meets Discovery
Learn science by doing science, with experiences that take you from campus classrooms to real-world research environments – all as an undergrad.
Take the next step
Through a major or minor in Biology at HWS, you’ll explore the complexity and interconnectedness of the living world while building the knowledge and skills to investigate it. From uncovering the inner workings of cells to understanding the ecological and evolutionary forces that shape life, our program takes a multifaceted approach to studying biology. Hands-on lab and field experiences and collaborative research with faculty will give you experience interpreting biological discoveries while developing the skills to contribute meaningfully to ongoing scientific research. Whether you’re preparing for medical school or other health-related professional schools, graduate study or a career in the life sciences, our program equips you with a strong foundation in both theory and practice.
What you can do
With a Career in Biology
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"Close-knit, engaging classes at HWS brought new perspectives to my mind and gave me the confidence to pursue research in biology at HWS, where I found a great sense of community.” Matt McNulty ’22
Healthcare and Medicine including as a Physician, Veterinarian, Dentist, Physical Therapist, Genetic Counselor, Physician’s Assistant, Nurse - Research and Development including in Biomedical Research, Microbiology, Molecular/Cellular Biology or Bioinformatics
- Environmental Conservation as a Marine Biologist, Ecologist, Zoologist, Environmental Scientist
- Education as a Biology Teacher/Professor, Science Journalist, Museum Educator
- Biotechnology as a Biotechnologist, Pharmaceutical Sales Rep, Biomedical Engineer
- Forensic Science
- Government and Policy Creation
- Data Science and Analytics
Internships, Grad Schools and First Jobs of Recent Grads
julie medina '25
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Researcher
Major: Biology
Minor: Chemistry, Environmental Studies
Jadon Layne '25
University of Pennsylvania, Lung Transplant Team
Majors: Biology, Environmental Studies
Meg Quint ‘21
Stanford University School of Medicine, MD Candidate and Knight-Hennessy Scholar
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Philosophy
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matt mcnulty '22
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, MD Candidate
Major: Biology
Cayden Smith '24
Long Island Veterinary School, Doctoral Candidate
Major: Biology
Minor: Environmental Science
Juliette pike '25
Back Bay Life Science Advisors, Investment Banking Analyst
Major: Biology
Minor: Economics
julia pida '25
Boehringer Ingelheim, Environmental Health and Safety Specialist
Major: Environmental Studies
Minor: Biology
Pasquale Palumbo III '23
Field Research Technician at the University of Wyoming
Major: Geoscience
Minors: Environmental Studies and Biology
Genesis Rosario '24
Weill Cornell, Senior Patient Care Coordinator
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Women's Studies
Chase Rizzo '24
Rochester Regional Health RGH, Pathology Lab
Major: Biology
Minor: Psychological Science
ella nelson '25
Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Clinical Research Coordinator
Major: Biology
Minor: Environmental Studies
Alexandra Davidson ’24
University of Pennsylvania, Doctor of Dental Medicine Candidate
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Environmental Studies
Katherine Risley '24
Pfizer, North America Service Ambassador Analyst
Major: History
Minors: Biology, Entrepreneurial Studies
payton kliesch '25
Pfizer, Associate Scientist-Immunodiagnostics
Major: Biology, Psychological Science
Minor: American Studies
Jamie fine '24
University of Pittsburgh, Doctor of Occupational Therapy
Major: Psychological Science
Minors: Biology, Anthropology
Eva Hamel '24
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Research Assistant
Major: Biology
Minor: Health Professions
Matthew Brown '24
Auburn University, College of Veterinary Medicine, DVM Candidate
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Health Professions
Emma Brachfeld ’23
Peace Corps Volunteer to Paraguay
Major: Environmental Studies
Minors: Biology and Spanish
auren legler '25
McGill University, Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Major: Biology, Psychological Science
Levi Carvalho '23
Engagement Partner at Bay Cove Human Services
Major: Psychological Science
Minor: Biology
Elisa Faiola '24
University of Central Florida, Master of Science in Speech Pathology
Major: Biology
Minor: Health Professions
UNIVERSITIES WHERE OUR GRADUATES ARE STUDYING
Companies that Employ Our Graduates
Bay Cove Human Services
Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Clean Harbors
Cleveland Clinic Foundation
Ginko Bioworks
House of Representatives Committee on Natural Resources
Massachusetts General Hospital
Mayo Clinic
McLean Hospital
National Fish & Wildlife Foundation
Peace Corps
The Carter Center
Biology News
Internships-&-OutcomesHow Gorczynski '26 Found Her Place at HWS
Three years after nearly bailing at Orientation, Emily Gorczynski ’26 is president of HWS Student Government, a biochemistry researcher and future UNC pharmacy doctoral student.
Internships-&-OutcomesA Deep Dive into Finger Lakes Aquatic Research
Students investigate how pollutants travel, accumulate and influence the Finger Lakes.
FacultyCosentino Featured in Audubon Magazine on the Importance of Squirrels
Audubon Magazine shares Cosentino’s insights on squirrel evolution and adaptability.
Curriculum
The Biology Department provides a strong foundation in modern biology while allowing students to explore a wide range of topics and pursue advanced coursework or independent research within a liberal arts framework. Core courses cover genetics, ecology, evolution and quantitative reasoning, giving students a common framework to understand how traits are inherited, develop and respond to the environment. Students also complete a senior capstone seminar focused on primary literature and can choose electives across diverse areas of biology, supported by courses in math and the natural sciences.
Biology offers two disciplinary majors, a B.A. and a B.S., and a disciplinary minor. Three sample courses are below:
BIOL 167 INTRODUCTORY TOPICS
Learn the fundamentals of studying biology, including distinguishing between the scientific inquiry and other modes of inquiry along with concepts of biology, the central role of DNA and RNA and the inheritance of genetic information.
BIOL 338 AQUATIC BIOLOGY
Develop a working knowledge of the general biology and ecology of aquatic systems and of the organisms that make up aquatic communities.
BIOL 302 Immunology
Examine immune cells and organs, immune processes, vaccines, immunodeficiency, transplants and immunotherapy.
Thinking about a career in healthcare or a pre-med program? HWS offers a specialty advising program to guide you on the road to medical, dental, veterinary or professional school. Minoring in Public Health is also an option.
Biology Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about HWS’ biology program?
At HWS, we take a future-focused, interdisciplinary approach to studies in biology. With study abroad programs tailored for science majors, strong career and pre-health advising and mentored research opportunities, biology majors gain experience that sets them apart when applying to graduate school and meaningful careers.
Does HWS offer a pre-med track within the Biology major?
Students interested in medical or other health professions can easily fulfill pre-health requirements through the Biology major. Advisors work closely with pre-med students to ensure they complete the necessary courses for medical school and prepare for the MCAT. HWS students have an 80% medical school acceptance on the first attempt (vs. the national average of 40%).
What kind of hands-on experiences will I get as a Biology major?
Biology students at HWS engage in hands-on lab work, field research and often collaborate with faculty on original research projects. Students can also take part in summer research, internships and off-campus programs that provide real-world scientific experience.
How large are Biology classes?
Introductory classes may be larger, but most upper-level Biology courses are small (typically 12–20 students), allowing for close faculty interaction and hands-on learning in labs and seminars.
Are there internships or summer opportunities for Biology students?
Definitely. Students are encouraged to pursue internships at hospitals, research labs, environmental organizations and biotech companies. HWS also offers Summer Research opportunities where students are paid to conduct research on campus with faculty mentors.
What facilities are available for biology students?
Our facilities provide biology students with opportunities for hands-on research and exploration.
- The William Scandling, HWS’ 65-ft research vessel
- Seneca Lake, the deepest glacial lake in New York
- Hanley Nature Preserve, 108-acres of forest and wetlands
- The Finger Lakes Institute, HWS’ center dedicated to Finger Lakes environmental research
- In January 2026, construction begins on a new 40,000 integrated science-complex – The Fish Center for the Sciences.
What can I do with an undergraduate degree in biology?
A biology major opens the door to a wide range of careers. Paired with a strong liberal arts foundation, HWS biology majors go on to careers in research, healthcare, and environmental science, as well as social impact fields including public policy, education and sustainable development.
Can I study abroad and major in biology?
Yes. At HWS, more than 60% of students at HWS study abroad, including biology majors. Students can participate in semester-long or short-term programs with topics ranging from "Climate Change in the Black Forest and Swiss Alps" in Freiburg, Germany, to “Marine Ecology of Australia” in Queensland, Australia. You don’t have to choose between a global experience and your major – you can do both.
Can I get involved in research as a biology major?
Yes. In 2025, HWS was named to Carnegie’s list of “Research Colleges and Universities,” recognizing our commitment to meaningful undergraduate research. Biology students frequently collaborate with faculty on projects that lead to honors, publications, graduate study and rewarding careers.
What career support is available for biology majors?
Career support is a significant focus of HWS’ future-focused curriculum. Early on, biology majors connect with a dedicated STEM Career Coordinator for career exploration, resume and CV writing, interview prep, networking and graduate school applications. The STEM Career Coordinator also connects students with alumni and employers to find internships, research, and job opportunities.
If you’re pre-health, you’ll receive personalized advising from faculty who will help you choose courses and prepare for professional school. A major advantage of attending HWS is the opportunity to request a Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC) recommendation in support of an application to medical, dental, optometry or veterinary school. Learn more here.
What makes HWS’ biology faculty special?
From studying how migratory birds use magnetic fields and starlight to navigate, to researching cancer-fighting compounds and how environmental change impacts wildlife, our professors’ scholarly interests consider fascinating questions about the natural world. Whether you're into molecules, ecosystems, or anything in between, our faculty are leading researchers and dedicated mentors ready to guide your curiosity.
Faculty Directory
Meet the experienced and dedicated professionals who will serve as your mentors.
Shannon Straub
Associate Professor of Biology, Chair
Education:
- Ph.D., Cornell University;
- B.A., University of Colorado
Scholarly Interests:
- Plant Systematics
- Phylogenomics
- Genome Structure
- Evolution
Meghan E. Brown
Professor of Biology, Chair, Aquatic Science
Education:
- Ph.D., M.S., University of Minnesota;
- B.S., University of Michigan
Scholarly Interests:
- Aquatic Ecology
- Invasion Biology
- Paleolimnology
- Invertebrate Dormancy
Sigrid Carle
Professor of Biology
Education:
- Ph.D., Florida State;
- B.S., William Smith
Contact:
- Tel: (315) 781-3589
- Office: Rosenberg
Bradley Cosentino
Professor of Biology
Education:
- Ph.D., University of Illinois;
- B.A., Augustana College (IL)
Scholarly Interests:
- Wildlife Ecology
- Wildlife Evolution
- Conservation Biology
Mark E Deutschlander
Professor of Biology
Education:
- Ph.D., Indiana University;
- B.S. summa cum laude, SUNY Geneseo
Scholarly Interests:
- Animal orientation and navigation, particular the use of magnetic and celestial cues by migratory birds.
- Ecophysiology of migration, particular the energetic needs and constraints of migratory birds.
- Ultraviolet and polarized light photoreception in vertebrates and insects.
Kristy L Kenyon
Professor of Biology
Education:
- Ph.D., The George Washington University;
- B.A., Colgate University
Scholarly Interests:
- Developmental biology: research emphasis on the development of the visual system in vertebrates (Xenopus) and invertebrates (Drosophila)
- Molecular and Cell Biology
- Neuroscience
Patricia A Mowery
Professor of Biology
Education:
- Ph.D., Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison;
- B.S., Indiana University;
- M.A., Yale University;
- B.A., University of Chicago
Scholarly Interests:
- Anti-cancer agents
- Cancer cell toxicity studies
- Structure-function studies
- Protein interactions
Susan F Cushman
Associate Professor of Practice
Education:
- B.S., William Smith College;
- M.S., Johns Hopkins University;
- Ph.D, University of Maryland
Scholarly Interests:
- Freshwater ecology specifically stream and fish ecology
- Restoration ecology
- Biomonitoring
- Conservation
Brielle Fischman
Director of Introductory Laboratories
Education:
- Ph.D., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- B.S., Cornell University
Contact:
- Tel: (315) 781-3672
Honors
Under the guidance and mentorship of Biology professors, students may choose to perform Honors. Most will complete a summer of research followed by research in their senior year. The work culminates as a written and defended Honors thesis, and the work is often presented at conferences or published as scientific articles.
Research
More than 60% of our biology students are actively engaged in a research or field study project each semester, both on-campus in state-of-the-art labs and off-campus with local scientists and doctors, getting the hands-on experience that makes them stand out in the job market.
Facilities
Other facilities include labs and classrooms in Rosenberg Hall, the Hanley Biological Field Preserve, The William Scandling Research Vessel and the Finger Lakes Institute.
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No Borders:Global Education
Our top-ranked study abroad program gives you the freedom to study biology across the globe.
