Overview

The Undergraduate Program in Biology and Medicine (UPBM) combines the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Medicine and Dentistry to offer undergraduate students interdisciplinary courses, lectures, laboratory work, specialty seminars, and research experiences.

UPBM is an accredited program that serves as a gateway for undergraduates studying biology to gain research opportunities at the Medical Center and/or on River Campus. These opportunities include independent research for credit during the academic year, as well as summer research fellowships.

Prospective Students

Want to learn more about the University of Rochester’s undergraduate program in biology? Request an informational meeting or attend a class.

Get a Head Start on Your Master's

Fast-Track Your Future in Computational Biology

Interested in pursuing a graduate degree in computational biology? You can get a head start on your graduate education with our 4+1 MS in biology: computational biology concentration. Eligible undergraduates can apply up to 12 graduate credits earned during their undergraduate studies toward their master's degree, creating an accelerated pathway to advanced study and career opportunities.

Our computational biology concentration hones your expertise through advanced coursework, hands-on projects, and faculty mentorship. All on an accelerated timeline.

Recommendations for First and Second Year Biology Students

New students should visit our course recommendations for first and second year biology students page for information on how to get the most out of your experience as a biology major, recommendations on course planning, as well as important information on how to declare a biology major.

Undergraduate Jobs in the Biology Department

  • TA positions: Several of our faculty allow undergraduate students to TA their classes. See the TA page for more information.
  • Job openings: Students who are interested in working at the Department of Biology may view and apply for job openings via JobLink.
  • Current student employees: Information regarding reporting hours, weekly hour limitations, paycheck distribution, employment verification, training, and more can be found in the Department of Biology Student Employment Onboarding and Procedures (pdf).

Society of Undergraduate Biology Students

The Society of Undergraduate Biology Students is a student organization that:

  • Promotes faculty-student interaction
  • Serve as a guiding force for biology majors/interests
  • Provide networking opportunities through events
  • Offers weekly study groups and a research shadowing program

This student-run group also prides itself on soliciting and acting on member input to help ensure they are catering to the needs of their members.