About Us
The Biological Sciences are at the center of several important societal challenges, including ecological and environmental challenges, advancing our understanding of human health, and developing biotechnology. Our students learn directly from world-class faculty who bring their expertise into the classroom and invite students into active research programs. Through these experiences, students gain valuable skills in critical thinking, data analysis, communication, along with a deepened appreciation for the living world and the scientific process that provides this understanding. A degree in Biological Sciences will provide the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the workforce and as engaged citizens.
Biology Front Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8am – 5pm
Students
Here in the Department of Biological Sciences, students are our highest priority. We are committed to providing an engaging and supportive learning environment where students can explore the diversity of life through hands-on coursework, laboratory experiences, fieldwork, and research opportunities. We work closely with students both inside and outside the classroom, helping them develop critical thinking, scientific inquiry, data analysis, and communication skills. Through these experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of biological systems while preparing for successful careers, advanced study, and meaningful contributions to their communities and the scientific world.
Below you will find some resources our students find most helpful. From tutoring and tutorials, to both undergraduate and graduate internships, lab work, and job opportunities!
The Boise Area from a Biologist’s Perspective
Five out of eight ecoregions in Idaho are within a day’s drive of Boise! Learn more about these geographically distinct areas that share similar environmental conditions, plants, animals, and ecosystems. Visit Boise State to see if it’s a good fit for you.
Support and Opportunities
Gain Practical Experience
Biology Internships offer students a valuable bridge between their academic studies and professional careers. By immersing themselves in real-world work environments, students can apply their theoretical knowledge, develop practical skills, and build lasing professional connections that will benefit them throughout their chosen field.
Student Resources
The Biology Learning Center (BLC) is a place where all students taking undergraduate biology courses at Boise State can receive guidance and tutoring on their biology lectures and laboratory assignments.
Scholarships and Admission
Joint Ecology and Environment Seminar (JEES) Series
This year’s joint seminar series is held every Thursday from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. in MCMR 105. Contact the MEM program, mem@boisestate.edu with any questions.
The JEES Series is brought to you by the following programs:
- Department of Biological Sciences
- Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior PhD
- Human-Environment Systems
- Master of Environmental Management
- Raptor Research Center
- School of the Environment
- School of Public Service
Joint Ecology & Environment Seminar Series
| Date | Speaker & Affiliation |
|---|---|
| Jan. 22 | Taylor Ganz, Science Lead, The Nature Conservancy in Idaho |
| Jan. 29 | Chris Vennum, Postdoctoral Research, National Raptor Program |
| Feb. 5 | Alejandra Echeverri Ochoa, Assistant Professor of Conservation Science, UC Berkeley |
| Feb. 12 | Christoph Walser, Professor of Biology, College of Idaho; Research Affiliate, Department of Geosciences, Boise State |
| Feb. 19 | Jordan Macknick, Energy-Water-Lead-Analyst, National Laboratory of the Rockies |
| Feb. 26 | Sergio Arispe, Associate Professor, Livestock and Rangeland Field Faculty, Oregon State University |
| March 5 | Laura Dee, Associate Professor, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado Boulder |
| March 12 | Jeffrey Prestemon, Emeritus Research Forester, USDA Forest Service |
| March 26 | Jordan Fields, Aquatic Resiliency Scientist, Trout Unlimited |
| April 1 | Tanya Heikkila, Professor, School of Public Affairs; Director, Center for Policy & Democracy, University of Colorado Boulder |
| April 9 | Gabriel Filippeli, Chancellor’s Professor and Executive Director, Indiana University Environmental Resilience Institute |
| April 16 | More information coming soon! |
| April 23 | Erika Allen Wolters, Associate Professor, Associate Director of Water Resources Policy and Management, Oregon State University |
| April 30 | EEB 604 Final Presentations |
Department News
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Thursday May 7th, 2026
Boise State scientist co-authors landmark study on the world’s most irreplaceable plants
A new study published in Science by Forest et al. (2026) provides the first comprehensive… -
Monday May 4th, 2026
Over 50 students and faculty receive awards at annual Graduate College Awards Ceremony
The Graduate College hosted its annual Awards Ceremony on April 23, 2026, celebrating the achievements… -
Friday May 1st, 2026
2026 Osher Faculty Grant recipients announced
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Boise State recently announced the 2026 Osher Faculty Grant… -
Wednesday Apr 8th, 2026
Podcasting meets science in interdepartmental collab
To make a podcast, you’ll probably need someone to interview. And to be a scientist,… -
Tuesday Mar 24th, 2026
Raptor student receives Association of Field Ornithologists grant
M.S. Raptor Biology student Emma Regnier’s research on how Golden Eagles shape cliff biodiversity caught…