Independent research project under the direction of a faculty sponsor for seniors in biomedical sciences. Final product is a written thesis. One or two semesters. Permission required.

The evolution and classification of whales living in their global ocean ecosystem will be investigated along with the influence and impact of humans on whale populations throughout history. Current research methods used to perform whale research will be presented. The implementation and current status of the effects of regulation, enforcement, management on the conservation of whale populations will be discussed. The impact of climate change, pollution and ocean water quality will be investigated.

An introduction to the invisible world of microbes and microorganisms and their impact on human life and ecosystems. Laboratory will be an opportunity for science and non-science students to learn the scientific method while they participate in citizen or crowdsourced science and contribute to scientific knowledge. Vaccines, antibiotics, and other topics will be presented. Special fee.

Students assist in teaching labs in undergraduate courses supervised by the lab coordinator/instructor. Responsibilities include facilitating lab endeavors, giving a presentation, and writing a report. Prereq: permission.