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Department of Biological Sciences

The Biology Department at USM: cellular structure and function; plants, animals and microbes; ecology and evolution
Biology Department logo
Effects of kinship on social organization
Woodchucks
Effects of arsenic on developing neurons
Neuron
Environmental and endogenous factors affecting gill function in clams
clam on half shell
Ecophysiology of marine microorganisms
microbes
Regulation of gene expression during development
Manduca

The Department of Biological Sciences offers a B.S. with the opportunity to concentrate in human biology, biotechnology, and ecology, as well as a two-year nondegree program in pre-pharmacy and postbaccalaureate certificates in pre-medical studies and pre-veterinary studies. All programs of study provide students with a liberal arts education emphasizing the sciences. Students also get strong hands-on experience by taking at least 4-6 lab classes, and many students get enhanced practical experience through research positions (volunteer, work study, grant funded, and fellowships) in science research labs at USM and elsewhere. The Department of Biological Sciences also offer a master’s degree in biology, with both thesis research and literature research options.

News & Events

Posted March 11, 2013
After 27 years, Elaine Fink will retire from teaching anatomy and physiology courses in the Biology Dept.
Dr. Tom Knight
Posted February 2, 2013
Dr. Tom Knight, Associate Professor of Biology, died unexpectedly on 27 January 2013. A plant physiologist who also taught courses in cell and molecular biology as well as introductory biology, Dr. Knight impacted many students during his 23 years on the USM faculty.
Posted December 7, 2012
Students in the USM Premedical & Health Student Society student club met with Ann Conley, a nurse practitioner at USM Health and Counseling Services, to learn about health career opportunities during the group's weekly meeting on Nov. 28th.

Tom Knight Biology Scholarship

Tom Knight

Tom was passionate about teaching students both in the classroom and in his research lab. This passion and devotion made him a beloved faculty member with students. To honor his commitment to students, the Biology Departtment is establishing funds for a needs-based scholarship for a Biology student who has a serious interest in biology, is working hard, and making good progress toward their studies.
 
People can donate to the fund in honor of Tom's memory in two ways, making sure they specifically designate their donation to the Tom Knight Biology Scholarship:

Checks payable to: University of Southern Maine

Note in memo line:  Tom Knight Biology Scholarship

Mailed to:
Advancement & Donor Services
University of Southern Maine
PO Box 9300
Portland, ME  04104-9300
 
On-line gifts can be made to:
http://www.usm.maine.edu/giving
Select "Donate Now"
Under Gift Details : Type in Designation Box: "Tom Knight Biology Scholarship"

Get involved in research!

Colleen Fuller

It's never too early to start thinking about your life after graduation! USM Biology faculty engage in a variety of research projects, and many of us welcome undergraduate students to work with us, which provides you with valuable experience for work or graduate school. Browse the list of faculty (under People) and research activity (under Research) and contact someone whose interests align with your own. It just might be the most rewarding part of your college experience!

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