Biological Sciences

Silpa Subedi cancer researcher featured in Vandals in Focus

Exploring the science of life

The Department of Biological Sciences at University of Idaho offers a dynamic environment for studying the complexities of life. As a student in this department, you don't just study biological sciences — you experience it, discover it and help shape its future.

Our programs integrate classroom learning with active research, giving you hands-on opportunities to explore fields such as genetics, ecology and molecular biology. As a student, you'll learn alongside dedicated faculty members who provide personal attention in classrooms, laboratories, field settings and extracurricular experiences. From your first year through graduation, you'll be supported by mentors who are committed to your academic and professional success.

Through coursework, immersive research and real-world application, the Department of Biological Sciences prepares you for rewarding careers in life science fields.

Discover our programs

Get an inside look at the Department of Biological Sciences through these program highlights. These short videos share key facts about each program, including areas of study, career relevance and the real-world impact of biological sciences. Together, they offer a clear snapshot of how our programs combine foundational knowledge with hands-on experience to prepare you for a wide range of science careers.

  • Scientist holding up vial with the words "Medical sciences"
  • Microbiology over a backdrop of a woman smiling while carrying petri dishes
  • Hand measuring a vial with the words" the chemistry of life"
  • Woman measuring vial

Meet our team

Our faculty in the Department of Biological Sciences exemplify excellence in teaching, research, scholarship and service. They lead innovative studies, secure competitive research funding and build partnerships with regional and national organizations. This work ensures our programs remain responsive to changing technologies, emerging scientific challenges and the needs of diverse communities.

Faculty

  • Tanya Miura

    Department Chair and Professor

  • Onesmo Balemba

    Professor

  • Lisa Bird

    Senior Instructor

  • Jim Bull

    Professor

  • Ginger E. Carney

    Professor and Dean

  • Douglas G. Cole

    Professor

  • Larry Forney

    Distinguished Professor Emeritus

  • Elizabeth (Lee) Ann Fortunato

    Professor

  • Nicole Grieshaber

    Research Associate Professor

  • Scott Grieshaber

    Professor

  • Luke J. Harmon

    Professor

  • Candi Heimgartner

    Senior Instructor

  • Paul Hohenlohe

    Professor, Biological Sciences; Director, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program

  • Jill L. Johnson

    Professor

  • Adam G. Jones

    Distinguished Professor

  • Saraswoti Khadge

    Instructor

  • Shirley Luckhart

    Professor and Co-director of Institute for Health in the Human Ecosystem

  • Christopher Marx

    Professor

  • Craig Miller

    Assistant Professor

  • Diana Mitchell

    Associate Professor

  • James J. Nagler

    Professor and Director, Center for Research on Invasive Species

  • Scott Nuismer

    Professor

  • Mary E. Oswald

    Senior Instructor

  • Christine Parent

    Professor

  • Barrie Robison

    Professor and Director, Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences

  • Paul Rowley

    Associate Professor; Assistant Director of the Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation

  • Deborah L. Stenkamp

    Professor

  • John "Jack" M. Sullivan

    Professor

  • Eva Top

    Professor Emerita

  • Klas Udekwu

    Assistant Professor

  • Holly A. Wichman

    University Distinguished Professor and Director, CMCI

  • Nora Céspedes Martínez

    Research Assistant Professor

  • Lea Medeiros

    Research Assistant Professor

Hands-on learning opportunities

The Department of Biological Sciences offers numerous opportunities for you to gain practical experience and engage with scientists outside U of I:  

  • Research projects: Participate in faculty-led research across various biological fields.
  • Internships: Gain experience with healthcare providers, research institutions and environmental agencies.
  • Workshops and seminars: Attend events featuring guest speakers and industry professionals.

Learn more about the College of Science’s support services