Undergraduate Program in Biology

Clark is a small research university that combines active Ph.D. programs with a liberal arts education for undergraduates. This combination of small size and active research provides an ideal environment for undergraduates to participate in original experimental research. The Biology Department has a variety of research programs, many of which are currently funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation.

For many undergraduates, the opportunity to conduct research in an active laboratory is the defining experience of their degree program. Research demonstrates real-world applications of classroom knowledge and skills, develops independent thinking, and provides invaluable experience to those considering a career in industry or continuing studies in medical, veterinary or graduate schools. In addition, Clark's innovative Accelerated BA/Master's Degree Program allows students who develop strong research interests the opportunity to integrate undergraduate and graduate-level study to earn a master's degree in a tuition-free fifth year.

Working side by side

The biology department is another example of Clark professors' commitment to including undergraduates in current research.

When Susan Foster observes courtship behaviors in Alaskan threespine sticklebacks, she involves her students in the process. "We've taken up to 10 undergraduates with us to Alaska in the summers to collect specimens and assist in our behavioral fieldwork," she explains.

Back in her lab at Clark, students "observe and analyze behaviors" to help tackle research questions about courting behavior, the effect of "drag" or resistance imposed by the water on a fish, and how sticklebacks might react to predators.

David Hibbett has recruited several Clark undergraduates to help with gene sequencing for his phylogenetic tree, and as Deborah Robertson sets up her new lab, she has plans to involve Clark students in examining the nutrient sources for and evolution of small, luminous phytoplankton.

"One thing that sets Clark's biology apart from a lot of schools is that our students are able to work with any of us," says department chair Tom Leonard '62, who gets to know all students in his classes. "I keep a book of their photographs and aspiration statements so I can help them find faculty inside and outside of Clark to work with. I help them find internships, get them into labs that are compatible with their interests, and nominate them for fellowships. We want every one of our students to feel they have a mentor."