Biological knowledge emerges from poking and prodding living systems. Through careful unprejudiced observation and creatively and carefully designed experiments, biologists hope to convince nature to reveal a bit of itself to them.

Williams students have many opportunities to carry out independent investigative research projects during the academic year for course credit. As a first year student or sophomore, you might have the opportunity to spend Winter Study (BIOL 022) collaborating with a faculty member on an experiment that is part of his/her research interest. WSP 99´s also provide the opportunity for sophomores, juniors, or seniors to do independent research either at Williams or at other institutions. During one of the semesters in your junior or senior year you may have the opportunity to take BIOL 297 or 298, giving you a semester-long independent research experience. During your senior year (or possibly bridging your junior and senior years) you might choose to carry out an honors research project in which you carry through a research project as one of your semester courses during fall and spring semesters plus Winter Study (BIOL 493 – BIOL W031– BIOL 494) culminating in your first scientific publication–a bound honors thesis listed in the Williams College Library catalog.

Many upper-level courses also offer the opportunity to be involved in an investigative lab experience, either through independent projects or a group project, as part of the course´s lab program.

There are also employment opportunities available during the school year or the summer. Many faculty hire students to work in their labs during the school year preparing solutions and carrying out simple experimental procedures–contact individual faculty members to inquire about the availability of such positions. During the beautiful Berkshire summer, more than forty students are hired for up to 10 weeks to work with individual Biology faculty members on the faculty member´s research projects.