At Saint Anselm College your studies in Biology go beyond classroom lectures, and laboratory experiments. Our curriculum is diverse, and in depth, offering several specialized courses and dozens of opportunities for enrichment.
You will find an emphasis on research and experiential learning, with facilities and courses designed specifically for hands-on investigation. Our faculty will mentor you joining you in the classroom, the laboratory, and in the field.
Whether you prefer studying botany in our greenhouse, health sciences in our laboratories, or tropical biology on a field study in Belize, our program will prepare you for graduate studies or a career in the sciences.
Facilities
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The Goulet Science Center
The Biology Department is housed in the Goulet Science Center. The center is named in honor of Leon and Elizabeth Goulet of Manchester, N.H. Mr. Goulet is a 1947 graduate of Saint Anselm College. The facility, which underwent a complete renovation in 1996, is the center for the Departments of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology. In addition to modern laboratories and classrooms, among the Goulet Center's many distinctive features is the Weiler Computer Center with state-of-the-art information technology for research and classroom instruction. Another is Perini Lecture Hall featuring advanced multimedia technology. A science reading room and library is also an integral part of the center.
Specialized Facilities
The Biology Department houses a number of specialized facilities for use by both students and faculty. In addition to a variety of teaching laboratories, each faculty member maintains a research laboratory with equipment suited to their particular research interests. More specialized teaching and research facilities include:
- Microscopy room with both stereoscopic and fluorescence microscopes and a digital imaging workstation.
- 3 climate-controlled environmental chambers
- 3 collections rooms for maintaining botanical, invertebrate and vertebrate specimens
- Biochemistry lab outfitted with a thermal cycler for PCR, 2D gel, and fraction separator
- New greenhouse
- Cell culture laboratory
- 100 Acres Reserve, a college-owned "land-lab" suitable for a diverse array of ecological studies
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Greenhouse
The new 650 sq.ft. greenhouse has state-of-the art environmental controls to maintain two growth rooms, one for desert-loving plants and one for plants that prefer it warm and humid.
Metal halide growth lights extend the "daylight" hours in winter. These lights have been put to good use providing optimal growing conditions for semester-long student experiments.
An electronically regulated misting system controls humidity levels.
Student Clubs
Students within the biology department can participate in several clubs related to course studies and research. Examples include:
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Probe and Scalpel Society
This organization is composed of students who would like to share their interest in the field of science with their fellow students. The organization functions primarily as a forum for the exchange of current ideas in the field of science.
The Probe and Scalpel Society sponsors guest speakers, film programs, and open discussions on breaking technology. Field trips are also arranged to observe medical, dental, and biological research as well as visits to aquariums and museums.
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The Green Team
The Green Team works to raise campus awareness about environmental issues and the environment in general. Activities include but are not limited to speakers, clean-ups, and various Earth Day events. The club hopes to increase the awareness, enjoyment, and appreciation of the beauty of nature, as well as to learn more about it.
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Beta Beta Beta
Beta Beta Beta is an honors society for undergraduates who are dedicated to improving our understanding of biology and biological research. The national society was founded in 1922 and the Chi Zeta chapter at Saint Anselm College was established in 1996. Each year the Chi Zeta chapter holds an induction ceremony for new members. In order to be eligible for membership, students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher and GPA of 3.00 or higher in their Biology Department major.