The field of Biology intersects with a number of other scientific disciplines. At Williams College, these intersections are formalized as interdisciplinary programs. A Biology major can usually complete one of these programs by taking just a few additional courses. See the catalog and program web pages for detailed information on each of the following programs:
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
The biochemistry and molecular biology program (BIMO) was designed to provide students with an opportunity for in-depth exploration of living systems in molecular terms. Professors Banta, Chen, Holland, Lebestky, Loehlin, Maroja, Savage, Swoap, Ting, and Turner are the Biology Department faculty members who participate in the BIMO program.
Bioinformatics, Genomics, and Proteomics
The Bioinformatics, Genomics, and Proteomics (“BigP”) curriculum involves faculty from the biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics/statistics, and physics departments and was designed to provide students with an understanding of these revolutionary new areas of investigation. Professors Banta, Chen, Edwards, Loehlin, Maroja, Marvin, Morales, Savage, and Ting are the Biology Department faculty members who participate in the BigP program.
Environmental Studies
The Environmental Studies department allows students to focus some of their elective courses in an integrated, interdisciplinary study of the environment – that is, the natural world, both in itself and as it has been modified by human society. Professors Auer, Banta, Bassar, Edwards, Gill, Maroja, Morales, and Ting, from the Biology Department participate in the environmental studies department.
Public Health
The Public Health concentration allows students to focus on the science and practice of promoting health and preventing disease or injury within and across populations. Professor Banta from the Biology Department participates in the public health program.
Medicine
Although there is no specific premedical program at Williams College, all the courses needed to fulfill premedical requirements are offered by the biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics departments. The premedical advisor, Rebecca Counter, can provide valuable information and assistance in planning for and applying to medical and related programs.
Neuroscience
Neuroscience is an interdisciplinary field concerned with understanding the relationships between brain, mind, and behavior. Professors Carter, Lebestky, Marvin and Williams are the Biology Department faculty members who participate in the Neuroscience program
Williams-Mystic/Maritime Studies
The Williams College-Mystic Seaport Maritime Studies Program offers students a unique opportunity to explore the ocean, to travel the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts, and to undertake original research of their own design in the humanities and sciences. The Biology Department recognizes for Biology major credit the marine ecology course offered through the Williams-Mystic Program.
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