Developmental Biology refers to the cellular, genetic, and molecular mechanisms responsible for generating the diversity of cell types that arise during development, and controlling the ways in which cells interact to produce organ systems and whole organisms. These problems are studied using vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants. Specific topics of interest include the regulation of gene expression, cell interactions, cell lineages, cell migrations, and the mechanism of sex determination. Immunology is the study of the genetic, cellular, and molecular mechanisms underlying the exquisite sensitivity and specificity of the immune system. Of particular interest is the role of idiotypic and cellular interactions in the regulation of the immune system as studied by organ culture, hybridoma technology, and the behavior of transgenic mice.
Neurobiology is an area of recent emphasis in the department.
The subject in general neurobiology is supplemented by a seminar series and an interlaboratory journal club. In the Department of Biology, the Master of Science is not a prerequisite for a program of study leading to the doctorate. However, students may make up some deficiencies over the course of their graduate work. Most students take subjects in these areas during the first year. Students also have a choice of several elective subjects, which have been designed for the entering graduate student.