In addition to neurobiology, strengths on the highly interactive campus include immunology, cell biology, structural biology, biochemistry, and genetics. THE CITY of Birmingham is located among the wooded ridges of the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The metropolitan area has a population of about 1.2 million, yet enjoys the ambiance of a smaller town. It has an abundant offering of cultural activities, including the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Alabama Ballet, botanical garden, zoo, and multiple ethnic and international music, film and cultural festivals. The Convention Center and UAB Performance Center are regular stops for touring artists.
Restaurants offer diverse local and international cuisine.
The mild climate is conducive to year round outdoor activities, including hiking in nearby state and national forests, boating on several lakes and rivers, and golf and tennis at municipal facilities. White sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico are a four hour drive to the south, and the Smoky Mountains a three hour drive to the north.