In the first semester of graduate studies, the student should initiate discussion of potential research projects with the appropriate faculty member. Once a student has identified a research advisor, that faculty member will also advise the student on coursework and career goals. A faculty member supervises a student's research project for thesis or independent study credits, depending on whether the student chooses the thesis or non-thesis option in the program. The large number of faculty members in the department insures that each student works closely with the faculty advisor. The Department of Biology is well equipped to support individual research projects.
Facilities are available for housing experimental animals and plants.
A laboratory for experimentation with pathogenic organisms is available, as is additional modern research instrumentation including a scanning electron microscope, ultracentrifuge, and cell culture facilities. A machine shop and electronics shop plus associated technicians are available to faculty and students for construction of specialized research apparatus. In addition, IUP is located in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains and offers an excellent location for field research. The university maintains cooperative associations with the Marine Science Consortium at Wallops Island, Virginia, and the University of Pittsburgh's Pymatuning Laboratory of Ecology. Graduate students can elect to take courses or pursue research programs at these facilities.