The area could be in organic chemistry, biochemistry or molecular biology, or it could include biology or physics. Interdisciplinary Plans could be in immunology, chemical ecology, or biophysics, to name a few. Students are encouraged to do experimental work as part of the Plan. The minimum requirement in mathematics is an understanding of calculus and differential equations. Linear algebra and statistics would also be helpful.
Physical biochemistry requires even more mathematics.
Science Practicum Students who fulfill requirements for a Plan of Concentration in one of the sciences have the option of completing a required science practicum as part of their Plan. Details are available in the Science Department or in the Registrar's Office. A general study of the theories of molecular evolutionary genetics with an emphasis on the evolution of the Drosophila chorion genes. A phylogenetic study of several closely related Drosophila obscura subgroup species based on the autosomal chorion s15 gene coding sequences and a review paper on the evolution of the Drosophila autosomal chorion locus, the phylogeny of the obscura group, and the basic theories of molecular evolutionary genetics. A study of the physiological and biochemical aspects of aging in living systems, focusing on how exercise can retard the aging process.