Beyond the classroom

Students kayak across a calm lake with bright green paddles, passing a set of tall stone columns along the shoreline on a sunny day.

Photographer: Doug Levere

Learn biology by doing biology

Hands-on experience is at the core of Biological Sciences at the University at Buffalo. From your first labs to advanced research and internships, you will apply what you learn, work alongside faculty and build skills that prepare you for careers and graduate study.

How students gain experience

There is no single path in Biological Sciences. Students build experience in ways that match their interests, goals and timeline, often combining more than one option.

Undergraduate research with faculty

Work on real research questions across the life sciences. Students can join labs early, stay involved across semesters and gain experience that supports graduate study or research-focused careers.

Biological Sciences internships

Apply what you learn in class to the real-world. Internships range from lab and fieldwork to health and community-based experiences. Students earn academic credit by enrolling in BIO 496.

Experiential Learning Fellowships

Receive paid support while completing an approved internship. These competitive fellowships help students focus on learning while gaining experience through BIO 496 during the  semester.

Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates

Spend eight weeks conducting full-time research at UB. This paid summer program includes mentorship, professional development and hands-on research.

Project Portal

Start a project to build skills and gain real-world experience for your career. The Experiential Learning Network's Project Portal is the easiest place to get started! Once you start a project, you can also pursue an ELN Digital Badge to display your accomplishments to future employers and graduate schools. 

Student organizations

Outside the classroom, students build community and leadership through student groups such as:

Take the next step

Experiential learning helps you discover what excites you and prepares you for what comes next. Whether you want to do research, explore careers or build professional skills, Biological Sciences at UB gives you the space and support to do it.

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