Why Study Molecular Biology and Biotechnology?
Biotechnologists use modern biological techniques and knowledge of biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and mathematics to find solutions to problems and develop new products with living systems and organisms. This program focuses on molecular biology in order to enhance the theoretical foundation and applications of the fastest-developing field of modern biology. Molecular biology and biotechnology (MBBT) majors will be prepared for research careers or health professional schools, equipped with the skills and lab techniques to succeed.
Undergraduate Research
Get a jump on grad school by conducting hands-on original research as an undergraduate. The biology faculty at North Park invites all interested students to assist with advanced research into subjects like the epidemiology of Lyme disease, understanding the cause of Parkinson’s disease, and experimenting with genetically altered plants.
Faculty Spotlight:
Dr. Tim Lin
Dr. Tim Lin encourages his students to explore the world, designing new courses and research opportunities that engage scientific curiosity and critical thinking.
Biology’s New Home
The Biology Department finds its home in the new Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center for Science and Community Life, a 101,000-square-foot facility equipped with 30 state-of-the-art labs and technology-enhanced classrooms. Built to meet LEED-certification standards for environmental responsibility in construction and operation, the Johnson Center is the hub of scientific life at North Park and a stunning addition to the campus community.
State-of-the-Art Labs and Equipment
Our facilities offer hands-on experience with technology-enhanced labs and equipment, including:
- Cadaver Lab with hospital-grade light and camera
- Smart Technology linking cadaver lab feed to anatomy lab screens
- Gel Doc UV illuminator
- Inverted fluorescent microscope
- Class IIA biosafety cabinets
- Thermocyclers
- Digital compound light microscopes
- Digital stereoscopes
Travel Courses: Research in Paradise
Field research is the best way to see biology in action. Every year, the biology department organizes research trips to exotic locations like Costa Rica, the Bahamas and Taiwan. In these for-credit courses, students are immersed in the ecology and culture of the country with the help of North Park professors and local experts.
Interesting Classes
Master basic biological science concepts and biotechnology skills, and enhance that foundation with advanced lab techniques and cutting-edge research:
- Genetics
- Bioinformatics
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Beyond the Classroom
Enhance your education with these options outside your coursework: