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Published by Robert Bruce at August 29th, 2023 , Revised On September 5, 2023

Biology Research Topics

Are you in need of captivating and achievable research topics within the field of biology? Your quest for the best biology topics ends right here as this article furnishes you with 100 distinctive and original concepts for biology research, laying the groundwork for your research endeavor.

Table of Contents

Our proficient researchers have thoughtfully curated these biology research themes, considering the substantial body of literature accessible and the prevailing gaps in research.

Should none of these topics elicit enthusiasm, our specialists are equally capable of proposing tailor-made research ideas in biology, finely tuned to cater to your requirements. 

Thus, without further delay, we present our compilation of biology research topics crafted to accommodate students and researchers.

Research Topics in Marine Biology

  • Impact of climate change on coral reef ecosystems.
  • Biodiversity and adaptation of deep-sea organisms.
  • Effects of pollution on marine life and ecosystems.
  • Role of marine protected areas in conserving biodiversity.
  • Microplastics in marine environments: sources, impacts, and mitigation.

Biological Anthropology Research Topics

  • Evolutionary implications of early human migration patterns.
  • Genetic and environmental factors influencing human height variation.
  • Cultural evolution and its impact on human societies.
  • Paleoanthropological insights into human dietary adaptations.
  • Genetic diversity and population history of indigenous communities.

Biological Psychology Research Topics 

  • Neurobiological basis of addiction and its treatment.
  • Impact of stress on brain structure and function.
  • Genetic and environmental influences on mental health disorders.
  • Neural mechanisms underlying emotions and emotional regulation.
  • Role of the gut-brain axis in psychological well-being.

Cancer Biology Research Topics 

  • Targeted therapies in precision cancer medicine.
  • Tumor microenvironment and its influence on cancer progression.
  • Epigenetic modifications in cancer development and therapy.
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors and their role in cancer immunotherapy.
  • Early detection and diagnosis strategies for various types of cancer.

Also read: Cancer research topics

Cell Biology Research Topics

  • Mechanisms of autophagy and its implications in health and disease.
  • Intracellular transport and organelle dynamics in cell function.
  • Role of cell signaling pathways in cellular response to external stimuli.
  • Cell cycle regulation and its relevance to cancer development.
  • Cellular mechanisms of apoptosis and programmed cell death.

Developmental Biology Research Topics 

  • Genetic and molecular basis of limb development in vertebrates.
  • Evolution of embryonic development and its impact on morphological diversity.
  • Stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine approaches.
  • Mechanisms of organogenesis and tissue regeneration in animals.
  • Role of non-coding RNAs in developmental processes.

Also read: Education research topics

Human Biology Research Topics

  • Genetic factors influencing susceptibility to infectious diseases.
  • Human microbiome and its impact on health and disease.
  • Genetic basis of rare and common human diseases.
  • Genetic and environmental factors contributing to aging.
  • Impact of lifestyle and diet on human health and longevity.

Molecular Biology Research Topics 

  • CRISPR-Cas gene editing technology and its applications.
  • Non-coding RNAs as regulators of gene expression.
  • Role of epigenetics in gene regulation and disease.
  • Mechanisms of DNA repair and genome stability.
  • Molecular basis of cellular metabolism and energy production.

Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates

  • 41. Investigating the effects of pollutants on local plant species.
  • Microbial diversity and ecosystem functioning in a specific habitat.
  • Understanding the genetics of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • Impact of urbanization on bird populations and biodiversity.
  • Investigating the role of pheromones in insect communication.

Synthetic Biology Research Topics 

  • Design and construction of synthetic biological circuits.
  • Synthetic biology applications in biofuel production.
  • Ethical considerations in synthetic biology research and applications.
  • Synthetic biology approaches to engineering novel enzymes.
  • Creating synthetic organisms with modified functions and capabilities.

Animal Biology Research Topics 

  • Evolution of mating behaviors in animal species.
  • Genetic basis of color variation in butterfly wings.
  • Impact of habitat fragmentation on amphibian populations.
  • Behavior and communication in social insect colonies.
  • Adaptations of marine mammals to aquatic environments.

Also read: Nursing research topics

Best Biology Research Topics 

  • Unraveling the mysteries of circadian rhythms in organisms.
  • Investigating the ecological significance of cryptic coloration.
  • Evolution of venomous animals and their prey.
  • The role of endosymbiosis in the evolution of eukaryotic cells.
  • Exploring the potential of extremophiles in biotechnology.

Biological Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • Neurobiological mechanisms underlying memory formation.
  • Impact of sleep disorders on cognitive function and mental health.
  • Biological basis of personality traits and behavior.
  • Neural correlates of emotions and emotional disorders.
  • Role of neuroplasticity in brain recovery after injury.

Biological Science Research Topics: 

  • Role of gut microbiota in immune system development.
  • Molecular mechanisms of gene regulation during development.
  • Impact of climate change on insect population dynamics.
  • Genetic basis of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
  • Evolutionary relationships among vertebrate species based on DNA analysis.

Biology Education Research Topics 

  • Effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in biology classrooms.
  • Assessing the impact of virtual labs on student understanding of biology concepts.
  • Gender disparities in science education and strategies for closing the gap.
  • Role of outdoor education in enhancing students’ ecological awareness.
  • Integrating technology in biology education: challenges and opportunities.

Biology-Related Research Topics

  • The intersection of ecology and economics in conservation planning.
  • Molecular basis of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria.
  • Implications of genetic modification of crops for food security.
  • Evolutionary perspectives on cooperation and altruism in animal behavior.
  • Environmental impacts of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Biology Research Proposal Topics

  • Investigating the role of microRNAs in cancer progression.
  • Exploring the effects of pollution on aquatic biodiversity.
  • Developing a gene therapy approach for a genetic disorder.
  • Assessing the potential of natural compounds as anti-inflammatory agents.
  • Studying the molecular basis of cellular senescence and aging.

Biology Research Topic Ideas

  • Role of pheromones in insect mate selection and behavior.
  • Investigating the molecular basis of neurodevelopmental disorders.
  • Impact of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions.
  • Genetic diversity and conservation of endangered species.
  • Evolutionary patterns in mimicry and camouflage in organisms.

Biology Research Topics for Undergraduates 

  • Effects of different fertilizers on plant growth and soil health.
  • Investigating the biodiversity of a local freshwater ecosystem.
  • Evolutionary origins of a specific animal adaptation.
  • Genetic diversity and disease susceptibility in human populations.
  • Role of specific genes in regulating the immune response.

Cell and Molecular Biology Research Topics 

  • Molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.
  • Role of microRNAs in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
  • Investigating the cell cycle and its control mechanisms.
  • Molecular basis of mitochondrial diseases and therapies.
  • Cellular responses to oxidative stress and their implications in ageing.

These topics cover a broad range of subjects within biology, offering plenty of options for research projects. Remember that you can further refine these topics based on your specific interests and research goals.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some good research topics in biology?

A good research topic in biology will address a specific problem in any of the several areas of biology, such as marine biology, molecular biology, cellular biology, animal biology, or cancer biology.

A topic that enables you to investigate a problem in any area of biology will help you make a meaningful contribution. 

How to choose a research topic in biology?

Choosing a research topic in biology is simple. 

Follow the steps:

  • Generate potential topics. 
  • Consider your areas of knowledge and personal passions. 
  • Conduct a thorough review of existing literature.
  •  Evaluate the practicality and viability. 
  • Narrow down and refine your research query. 
  • Remain receptive to new ideas and suggestions.

Who Are We?

For several years, Research Prospect has been offering students around the globe complimentary research topic suggestions. We aim to assist students in choosing a research topic that is both suitable and feasible for their project, leading to the attainment of their desired grades. Explore how our services, including research proposal writing , dissertation outline creation, and comprehensive thesis writing , can contribute to your college’s success.

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200+ Unique And Interesting Biology Research Topics For Students In 2023

Biology Research Topics

Are you curious about the fascinating world of biology and its many research possibilities? Well, you are in the right place! In this blog, we will explore biology research topics, exploring what biology is, what constitutes a good research topic, and how to go about selecting the perfect one for your academic journey.

So, what exactly is biology? Biology is the study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. It includes everything from the tiniest cells to the largest ecosystems, making it a diverse and exciting field of study.

Stay tuned to learn more about biology research topics as we present over 200 intriguing research ideas for students, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right one. In addition, we will also share resources to make your quest for the perfect topic a breeze. Let’s embark on this scientific journey together!

If you are having trouble with any kind of assignment or task, do not worry—we can give you the best microbiology assignment help at a value price. Additionally, you may look at nursing project ideas .

What Is Biology?

Table of Contents

Biology is the study of living things, like animals, plants, and even tiny organisms too small to see. It helps us understand how these living things work and how they interact with each other and their environment. Biologists, or scientists who study biology, explore topics like how animals breathe, how plants grow, and how our bodies function. By learning about biology, we can better care for the Earth and all its living creatures.

What Is A Good Biology Research Topic?

A good biology research topic is a question or problem in the field of biology that scientists want to investigate and learn more about. It should be interesting and important, like studying how a new medicine can treat a disease or how animals adapt to changing environments. The topic should also be specific and clear, so researchers can focus on finding answers. Additionally, it’s helpful if the topic hasn’t been studied extensively before, so the research can contribute new knowledge to the field of biology and help us better understand the natural world.

Tips For Choosing A Biology Research Topics

Here are some tips for choosing a biology research topics:

1. Choose What Interests You

When picking a biology research topic, go for something that you personally find fascinating and enjoyable. When you’re genuinely curious about it, you’ll be more motivated to study and learn.

2. Select a Significant Topic

Look for a subject in biology that has real-world importance. Think about whether your research can address practical issues, like finding cures for diseases or understanding environmental problems. Research that can make a positive impact is usually a good choice.

3. Check If It’s Doable

Consider if you have the necessary tools and time to carry out your research. It’s essential to pick a topic that you can actually study with the resources available to you.

4. Add Your Unique Perspective

Try to find a fresh or different angle for your research. While you can build upon existing knowledge, bringing something new or unique to the table can make your research more exciting and valuable.

5. Seek Guidance

Don’t hesitate to ask for advice from your teachers or experienced researchers. They can provide you with valuable insights and help you make a smart decision when choosing your research topic in biology.

Biology Research Topics For College Students

1. Investigating the role of genetic mutations in cancer development.

2. Analyzing the impact of climate changes on wildlife populations.

3. Studying the ecology of invasive species in urban environments.

4. Investigating the microbiome of the human gut and its relationship to health.

5. Analyzing the genetic diversity of endangered species for conservation.

6. Studying the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

7. Investigating the ecological consequences of deforestation.

8. Analyzing the behavior and communication of social insects like ants and bees.

9. Studying the physiology of extreme environments, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents.

10. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of cell division and mitosis.

Plant Biology Research Topics For College Students

11. Studying the impact of different fertilizers on crop yields and soil health.

12. Analyzing the genetics of plant resistance to pests and diseases.

13. Investigating the role of plant hormones in growth and development.

14. Studying the adaptation of plants to drought conditions.

15. Analyzing the ecological interactions between plants and pollinators.

16. Investigating the use of biotechnology to enhance crop traits.

17. Studying the genetics of plant breeding for improved varieties.

18. Analyzing the physiology of photosynthesis and carbon fixation in plants.

19. Investigating the effects of soil microbiota on plant health.

20. Studying the evolution of plant species in response to changing environments.

Biotechnology Research Topics For College Students

21. Investigating the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genome editing.

22. Analyzing the production of biofuels from microorganisms.

23. Studying the application of biotechnology in medicine, such as gene therapy.

24. Investigating the use of bioplastics as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.

25. Analyzing the role of biotechnology in food production, including GMOs.

26. Studying the development of biopharmaceuticals and monoclonal antibodies.

27. Investigating the use of bioremediation to clean up polluted environments.

28. Studying the potential of synthetic biology for creating novel organisms.

29. Analyzing the ethical and social implications of biotechnological advancements.

30. Investigating the use of biotechnology in forensic science, such as DNA analysis.

Molecular Biology Research Topics For Undergraduates

31. Studying the structure and function of DNA and RNA molecules.

32. Analyzing the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotic cells.

33. Investigating the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.

34. Studying the role of non-coding RNAs in gene regulation.

35. Analyzing the molecular basis of genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis.

36. Investigating the epigenetic modifications that control gene activity.

37. Studying the molecular mechanisms of protein folding and misfolding.

38. Analyzing the molecular pathways involved in cancer progression.

39. Investigating the molecular basis of neurodegenerative diseases.

40. Studying the use of molecular markers in genetic diversity analysis.

Life Science Research Topics For High School Students

41. Investigating the effects of different diets on human health.

42. Analyzing the impact of exercise on cardiovascular fitness.

43. Studying the genetics of inherited traits and diseases.

44. Investigating the ecological interactions in a local ecosystem.

45. Analyzing the diversity of microorganisms in soil or water samples.

46. Studying the anatomy and physiology of a specific organ or system.

47. Investigating the life cycle of a local plant or animal species.

48. Studying the effects of environmental pollutants on aquatic organisms.

49. Analyzing the behavior of a specific animal species in its habitat.

50. Investigating the process of photosynthesis in plants.

Biology Research Topics For Grade 12

51. Investigating the genetic basis of a specific inherited disorder.

52. Analyzing the impact of climate change on a local ecosystem.

53.Studying the biodiversity of a particular rainforest region.

54. Investigating the physiological adaptations of animals to extreme temperatures.

55. Analyzing the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

56. Studying the life history and conservation status of an endangered species.

57. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of a specific disease.

58. Studying the ecological interactions within a coral reef ecosystem.

59. Analyzing the genetics of plant hybridization and speciation.

60. Investigating the behavior and communication of a particular bird species.

Marine Biology Research Topics

61. Studying the impact of ocean acidification on coral reefs.

62. Analyzing the migration patterns of marine mammals.

63. Investigating the physiology of deep-sea creatures under high pressure.

64. Studying the ecology of phytoplankton and their role in the marine food web.

65. Analyzing the behavior of different species of sharks.

66. Investigating the conservation of sea turtle populations.

67. Studying the biodiversity of deep-sea hydrothermal vent communities.

68. Analyzing the effects of overfishing on marine ecosystems.

69. Investigating the adaptation of marine organisms to extreme cold in polar regions.

70. Studying the bioluminescence and communication in marine organisms.

AP Biology Research Topics

71. Investigating the role of specific enzymes in cellular metabolism.

72. Analyzing the genetic variation within a population.

73. Studying the mechanisms of hormonal regulation in animals.

74. Investigating the principles of Mendelian genetics through trait analysis.

75. Analyzing the ecological succession in a local ecosystem.

76. Studying the physiology of the human circulatory system.

77. Investigating the molecular biology of a specific virus.

78. Studying the principles of natural selection through evolutionary simulations.

79. Analyzing the genetic diversity of a plant species in different habitats.

80. Investigating the effects of different environmental factors on plant growth.

Cell Biology Research Topics

81. Investigating the role of mitochondria in cellular energy production.

82. Analyzing the mechanisms of cell division and mitosis.

83. Studying the function of cell membrane proteins in signal transduction.

84. Investigating the cellular processes involved in apoptosis (cell death).

85. Analyzing the role of endoplasmic reticulum in protein synthesis and folding.

86. Studying the dynamics of the cytoskeleton and cell motility.

87. Investigating the regulation of cell cycle checkpoints.

88. Analyzing the structure and function of cellular organelles.

89. Studying the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.

90. Investigating the impact of cellular stress on cell health and function.

Human Biology Research Topics

91. Analyzing the genetic basis of inherited diseases in humans.

92. Investigating the physiological responses to exercise and physical activity.

93. Studying the hormonal regulation of the human reproductive system.

94. Analyzing the impact of nutrition on human health and metabolism.

95. Investigating the role of the immune system in disease prevention.

96. Studying the genetics of human evolution and migration.

97. Analyzing the neural mechanisms underlying human cognition and behavior.

98. Investigating the molecular basis of aging and age-related diseases.

99. Studying the impact of environmental toxins on human health.

100. Analyzing the genetics of organ transplantation and tissue compatibility.

Molecular Biology Research Topics

101. Investigating the role of microRNAs in gene regulation.

102. Analyzing the molecular basis of genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis.

103. Studying the epigenetic modifications that control gene expression.

104. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of RNA splicing.

105. Analyzing the role of telomeres in cellular aging.

106. Studying the molecular pathways involved in cancer metastasis.

107. Investigating the molecular basis of neurodegenerative diseases.

108. Studying the molecular interactions in protein-protein networks.

109. Analyzing the molecular mechanisms of DNA damage and repair.

110. Investigating the use of CRISPR-Cas9 for genome editing.

Animal Biology Research Topics

111. Studying the behavior and communication of social insects like ants.

112. Analyzing the physiology of hibernation in mammals.

113. Investigating the ecological interactions in a predator-prey relationship.

114. Studying the adaptations of animals to extreme environments.

115. Analyzing the genetics of inherited traits in animal populations.

116. Investigating the impact of climate change on animal migration patterns.

117. Studying the diversity of marine life in coral reef ecosystems.

118. Analyzing the physiology of flight in birds and bats.

119. Investigating the molecular basis of animal coloration and camouflage.

120. Studying the behavior and conservation of endangered species.

  • Neuroscience Research Topics
  • Mental Health Research Topics

Plant Biology Research Topics

121. Investigating the role of plant hormones in growth and development.

122. Analyzing the genetics of plant resistance to pests and diseases.

123. Climate change and plant phenology are being examined.

124. Investigating the ecology of mycorrhizal fungi and their symbiosis with plants.

125. Investigating plant photosynthesis and carbon fixing.

126. Molecular analysis of plant stress responses.

127. Investigating the adaptation of plants to drought conditions.

128. Studying the role of plants in phytoremediation of polluted environments.

129. Analyzing the genetics of plant hybridization and speciation.

130. Investigating the molecular basis of plant-microbe interactions.

Environmental Biology Research Topics

131. Analyzing the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

132. Investigating the biodiversity of a particular ecosystem.

133. Studying the ecological consequences of deforestation.

134. Analyzing the impact of climate change on wildlife populations.

135. Investigating the use of bioremediation to clean up polluted sites.

136. Studying the environmental factors influencing species distribution.

137. Analyzing the effects of habitat fragmentation on wildlife.

138. Investigating the ecology of invasive species in new environments.

139. Studying the conservation of endangered species and habitats.

140. Analyzing the interactions between humans and urban ecosystems.

Chemical Biology Research Topics

141. Investigating the design and synthesis of new drug compounds.

142. Analyzing the molecular mechanisms of enzyme catalysis.

143.Studying the role of small molecules in cellular signaling pathways.

144. Investigating the development of chemical probes for biological research.

145. Studying the chemistry of protein-ligand interactions.

146. Analyzing the use of chemical biology in cancer therapy.

147. Investigating the synthesis of bioactive natural products.

148. Studying the role of chemical compounds in microbial interactions.

149. Analyzing the chemistry of DNA-protein interactions.

150. Investigating the chemical basis of drug resistance in pathogens.

Medical Biology Research Topics

151. Investigating the genetic basis of specific diseases like diabetes.

152. Analyzing the mechanisms of drug resistance in bacteria.

153. Studying the molecular mechanisms of autoimmune diseases.

154. Investigating the development of personalized medicine approaches.

155. Studying the role of inflammation in chronic diseases.

156. Analyzing the genetics of rare diseases and genetic syndromes.

157. Investigating the molecular basis of viral infections and vaccines.

158. Studying the mechanisms of organ transplantation and rejection.

159. Analyzing the molecular diagnostics of cancer.

160. Investigating the biology of stem cells and regenerative medicine.

Evolutionary Biology Research Topics

161. Studying the evolution of human ancestors and early hominids.

162. The genetic variety of species and between species is being looked at.

163. Investigating the role of sexual selection in animal evolution.

164. Studying the co-evolutionary relationships between parasites and hosts.

165. Analyzing the evolutionary adaptations of extremophiles.

166. Investigating the evolution of developmental processes (evo-devo).

167. Studying the biogeography and distribution of species.

168. Analyzing the evolution of mimicry in animals and plants.

169. Investigating the genetics of speciation and hybridization.

170. Studying the evolutionary history of domesticated plants and animals.

Cellular Biology Research Topics

171. Investigating the role of autophagy in cellular homeostasis.

172. Analyzing the mechanisms of cellular transport and trafficking.

173. Studying the regulation of cell adhesion & migration.

174. Investigating the cellular responses to DNA damage.

175. Analyzing the dynamics of cellular membrane structures.

176. Studying the role of cellular organelles in lipid metabolism.

177. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of cell-cell communication.

178. Studying the physiology of cellular respiration and energy production.

179. Analyzing the cellular mechanisms of viral entry and replication.

180. Investigating the role of cellular senescence in aging and disease.

Good Biology Research Topics Related To Brain Injuries

181. Analyzing the molecular mechanisms of traumatic brain injury.

182. Investigating the role of neuroinflammation in brain injury recovery.

183. Studying the impact of concussions on long-term brain health.

184. Analyzing the use of neuroimaging in diagnosing brain injuries.

185. Investigating the development of neuroprotective therapies.

186. Studying the genetics of susceptibility to brain injuries.

187. Analyzing the cognitive and behavioral effects of brain trauma.

188. Investigating the role of rehabilitation in brain injury recovery.

189. Studying the cellular and molecular changes in axonal injury.

190. Looking into how stem cell therapy might be used to help brain injuries.

Biology Quantitative Research Topics

191. Investigating the mathematical modeling of population dynamics.

192. Analyzing the statistical methods for biodiversity assessment.

193. Studying the use of bioinformatics in genomics research.

194. Investigating the quantitative analysis of gene expression data.

195. Studying the mathematical modeling of enzyme kinetics.

196. Analyzing the statistical approaches for epidemiological studies.

197. Investigating the use of computational tools in phylogenetics.

198. Studying the mathematical modeling of ecological systems.

199. Analyzing the quantitative analysis of protein-protein interactions.

200. Investigating the statistical methods for analyzing genetic variation.

Importance Of Choosing The Right Biology Research Topics

Here are some importance of choosing the right biology research topics: 

1. Relevance to Your Interests and Goals

Choosing the right biology research topic is important because it should align with your interests and goals. Studying something you’re passionate about keeps you motivated and dedicated to your research.

2. Contribution to Scientific Knowledge

Your research should contribute something valuable to the world of science. Picking the right topic means you have the chance to discover something new or solve a problem, advancing our understanding of the natural world.

3. Availability of Resources

Consider the resources you have or can access. If you pick a topic that demands resources you don’t have, your research may hit a dead end. Choosing wisely means you can work efficiently.

4. Feasibility and Manageability

A good research topic should be manageable within your time frame and capabilities. If it’s too broad or complex, you might get overwhelmed. Picking the right topic ensures your research is doable.

5. Real-World Impact

Think about how your research might benefit the real world. Biology often has implications for health, the environment, or society. Choosing a topic with practical applications can make your work meaningful and potentially change lives.

Resources For Finding Biology Research Topics

There are numerous resources for finding biology research topics:

1. Online Databases

Look on websites like PubMed and Google Scholar. They have lots of biology articles. Type words about what you like to find topics.

2. Academic Journals

Check biology magazines. They talk about new research. You can find ideas and see what’s important.

3. University Websites

Colleges show what their teachers study. Find teachers who like what you like. Ask them about ideas for your own study.

4. Science News and Magazines

Read science news. They tell you about new things in biology. It helps you think of research ideas.

5. Join Biology Forums and Communities

Talk to other people who like biology online. You can ask for ideas and find friends to help you. Use websites like ResearchGate and Reddit for this.

Conclusion 

Biology Research Topics offer exciting opportunities for exploration and learning. We’ve explained what biology is and stressed the importance of picking a good research topic. Our tips and extensive list of over 200 biology research topics provide valuable guidance for students.

Selecting the right topic is more than just getting good grades; it’s about making meaningful contributions to our understanding of life. We’ve also shared resources to help you discover even more topics. So, embrace the world of biology research, embark on a journey of discovery, and be part of the ongoing effort to unravel the mysteries of the natural world.

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49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics

August 21, 2023

biology research topics

In need of the perfect biology research topics—ideas that can both showcase your intellect and fuel your academic success? Lost in the boundless landscape of possible biology topics to research? And afraid you’ll never get a chance to begin writing your paper, let alone finish writing? Whether you’re a budding biologist hoping for a challenge or a novice seeking easy biology research topics to wade into, this blog offers curated and comprehensible options.

And if you’re a high school or transfer student looking for opportunities to immerse yourself in biology, consider learning more about research opportunities for high school students , top summer programs for high school students , best colleges for studying biomedical engineering , and best colleges for studying biology .

What is biology?

Well, biology explores the web of life that envelops our planet, from the teeny-tiny microbes to the big complex ecosystems. Biology investigates the molecular processes that define existence, deciphers the interplay of genes, and examines all the dynamic ways organisms interact with their environments. And through biology, you can gain not only knowledge, but a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things. Pretty cool!

There are lots and lots of sub-disciplines within biology, branching out in all directions. Throughout this list, we won’t follow all of those branches, but we will follow many. And while none of these branches are truly simple or easy, some might be easier than others. Now we’ll take a look at a few various biology research topics and example questions that could pique your curiosity.

Climate change and ecosystems

The first of our potentially easy biology research topics: climate change and ecosystems. Investigate how ecosystems respond and adapt to the changing climate. And learn about shifts in species distributions , phenology , and ecological interactions .

1) How are different ecosystems responding to temperature changes and altered precipitation patterns?2) What are the implications of shifts in species distributions for ecosystem stability and functioning?

2) Or how does phenology change in response to climate shifts? And how do those changes impact species interactions?

3) Which underlying genetic and physiological mechanisms enable certain species to adapt to changing climate conditions?

4) And how do changing climate conditions affect species’ abilities to interact and form mutualistic relationships within ecosystems?

Microbiome and human health

Intrigued by the relationship between the gut and the rest of the body? Study the complex microbiome . You could learn how gut microbes influence digestion, immunity, and even mental health.

5) How do specific gut microbial communities impact nutrient absorption?

6) What are the connections between the gut microbiome, immune system development, and susceptibility to autoimmune diseases?

7) What ethical considerations need to be addressed when developing personalized microbiome-based therapies? And how can these therapies be safely and equitably integrated into clinical practice?

8) Or how do variations in the gut microbiome contribute to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression?

9) How do changes in diet and lifestyle affect the composition and function of the gut microbiome? And what are the subsequent health implications?

Urban biodiversity conservation

Next, here’s another one of the potentially easy biology research topics. Examine the challenges and strategies for conserving biodiversity in urban environments. Consider the impact of urbanization on native species and ecosystem services. Then investigate the decline of pollinators and its implications for food security or ecosystem health.

10) How does urbanization influence the abundance and diversity of native plant and animal species in cities?

11) Or what are effective strategies for creating and maintaining green spaces that support urban biodiversity and ecosystem services?

12) How do different urban design and planning approaches impact the distribution of wildlife species and their interactions?

13) What are the best practices for engaging urban communities in biodiversity conservation efforts?

14) And how can urban agriculture and rooftop gardens contribute to urban biodiversity conservation while also addressing food security challenges?

Bioengineering

Are you a problem solver at heart? Then try approaching the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine. Delve into the field of synthetic biology , where researchers engineer biological systems to create novel organisms with useful applications.

15) How can synthetic biology be harnessed to develop new, sustainable sources of biofuels from engineered microorganisms?

16) And what ethical considerations arise when creating genetically modified organisms for bioremediation purposes?

17) Can synthetic biology techniques be used to design plants that are more efficient at withdrawing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

18) How can bioengineering create organisms capable of producing valuable pharmaceutical compounds in a controlled and sustainable manner?

19) But what are the potential risks and benefits of using engineered organisms for large-scale environmental cleanup projects?

Neurobiology

Interested in learning more about what makes creatures tick? Then this might be one of your favorite biology topics to research. Explore the neural mechanisms that underlie complex behaviors in animals and humans. Shed light on topics like decision-making, social interactions, and addiction. And investigate how brain plasticity and neurogenesis help the brain adapt to learning, injury, and aging.

20) How does the brain’s reward circuitry influence decision-making processes in situations involving risk and reward?

21) What neural mechanisms underlie empathy and social interactions in both humans and animals?

22) Or how do changes in neural plasticity contribute to age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases?

23) Can insights from neurobiology inform the development of more effective treatments for addiction and substance abuse?

24) What are the neural correlates of learning and memory? And how can our understanding of these processes be applied to educational strategies?

Plant epigenomics

While this might not be one of the easy biology research topics, it will appeal to plant enthusiasts. Explore how epigenetic modifications in plants affect their ability to respond and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

25) How do epigenetic modifications influence the expression of stress-related genes in plants exposed to temperature fluctuations?

26) Or what role do epigenetic changes play in plants’ abilities to acclimate to changing levels of air pollution?

27) Can certain epigenetic modifications be used as indicators of a plant’s adaptability to new environments?

28) How do epigenetic modifications contribute to the transgenerational inheritance of traits related to stress resistance?

29) And can targeted manipulation of epigenetic marks enhance crop plants’ ability to withstand changing environmental conditions?

Conservation genomics

Motivated to save the planet? Conservation genomics stands at the forefront of modern biology, merging the power of genetics with the urgent need to protect Earth’s biodiversity. Study genetic diversity, population dynamics, and how endangered species adapt in response to environmental changes.

30) How does genetic diversity within endangered species influence their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions?

31) What genetic factors contribute to the susceptibility of certain populations to diseases, and how can this knowledge inform conservation strategies?

32) How can genomic data be used to inform captive breeding and reintroduction programs for endangered species?

33) And what are the genomic signatures of adaptation in response to human-induced environmental changes, such as habitat fragmentation and pollution?

34) Or how can genomics help identify “hotspots” of biodiversity that are particularly important for conservation efforts?

Zoonotic disease transmission

And here’s one of the biology research topics that’s been on all our minds in recent years. Investigate the factors contributing to the transmission of zoonotic diseases , like COVID-19. Then posit strategies for prevention and early detection.

35) What are the ecological and genetic factors that facilitate the spillover of zoonotic pathogens from animals to humans?

36) Or how do changes in land use, deforestation, and urbanization impact the risk of zoonotic disease emergence?

37) Can early detection and surveillance systems be developed to predict and mitigate the spread of zoonotic diseases?

38) How do social and cultural factors influence human behaviors that contribute to zoonotic disease transmission?

39) And can strategies be implemented to improve global pandemic preparedness?

Bioinformatics

Are you a data fanatic? Bioinformatics involves developing computational tools and techniques to analyze and interpret large biological datasets. This enables advancements in genomics, proteomics, and systems biology. So delve into the world of bioinformatics to learn how large-scale genomic and molecular data are revolutionizing biological research.

40) How can machine learning algorithms predict the function of genes based on their DNA sequences?

41) And what computational methods can identify potential drug targets by analyzing protein-protein interactions in large biological datasets?

42) Can bioinformatics tools be used to identify potential disease-causing mutations in human genomes and guide personalized medicine approaches?

43) What are the challenges and opportunities in analyzing “omics” data (genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics) to uncover novel biological insights?

44) Or how can bioinformatics contribute to our understanding of microbial diversity, evolution, and interactions within ecosystems?

Regenerative medicine

While definitely not one of the easy biology research topics, regenerative medicine will appeal to those interested in healthcare. Research innovative approaches to stimulate tissue and organ regeneration, using stem cells, tissue engineering, and biotechnology. And while you’re at it, discover the next potential medical breakthrough.

45) How can stem cells be directed to differentiate into specific cell types for tissue regeneration, and what factors influence this process?

46) Or what are the potential applications of 3D bioprinting in creating functional tissues and organs for transplantation?

47) How can bioengineered scaffolds enhance tissue regeneration and integration with host tissues?

48) What are the ethical considerations surrounding the use of stem cells and regenerative therapies in medical treatments?

49) And can regenerative medicine approaches be used to treat neurodegenerative disorders and restore brain function?

Biology Research Topics – Final thoughts

So as you take your next steps, try not to feel overwhelmed. And instead, appreciate the vast realm of possibilities that biology research topics offer. Because the array of biology topics to research is as diverse as the ecosystems it seeks to understand. And no matter if you’re only looking for easy biology research topics, or you’re itching to unravel the mysteries of plant-microbe interactions, your exploration will continue to deepen what we know of the world around us.

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70 Fresh Biology Research Topics for College Students

College students in the field of biology will have to write at least one research paper throughout the period of their study. You would agree with me that writing the research papers would be so much easier if there were solid, reliable topics to write about or direct questions to answer.

If you’re a college student, or you know someone who’s in that field, and you need a list of good biology research topics for college students, then look no further. Because of this article, you now have access to 70 different and fresh biology research topics for college students.

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70 Different Biology Research Topics College Students Would Love

Read on to find 70 of the best biology research topics college students can choose from, for their research papers. These topics offer just the right amount of challenge for college students to put in the effort needed to make a successful paper. They are not just challenging, they are also interesting.

  • The role of microorganisms in the processes involved in brewery
  • The various mechanisms of viral resistance and adaptation
  • The different methods that microbes adapt to their environment
  • The difference between virions and viroids
  • The fundamental importance of vaccines in human life
  • The role of bacteria in human the immune system
  • Normal flora and fauna found in the human body
  • Discuss the different protozoan groups
  • Effects of exercise on immune system
  • The role of microfilms in ensuring microbial safety
  • Effects of anaemia on the human body
  • The role of the kidneys in blood purification
  • The importance of the liver in the human body
  • Effects of illnesses on the growth of humans and animals
  • Parasitic relationship between plants
  • Parasitism in animals
  • The brains reaction to trauma
  • How the brain retains information
  • How helper T cells work
  • Functions of the red blood cells
  • Discuss the structure of haemoglobin
  • The importance of magnesium in the body
  • Discuss lead poisoning and its effects
  • Autoimmunity in plants
  • Prevention of plant pathology
  • Adaptation of plants to salt water
  • Cerebral oedemas
  • Enemas: a necessary evil
  • Mechanisation in the operating room
  • The pathology of cystic fibrosis
  • Hermaphroditic organisms
  • Effects of steroids on the skin
  • Asexual reproduction in plants
  • The importance of polymerase chain reaction
  • Identification of viruses
  • How hormones control reproduction
  • The importance of homemade remedies
  • Synthesis of steroids in human cells
  • The relationship between genetics and organ rejection
  • How the environment is affected by the fashion industry
  • Factors that contribute to extinction
  • The link between genetics and schizophrenia
  • The link between genetics and mental disorders
  • The effects of poaching on the environment
  • Desert encroachment and the hazards it brings
  • How microorganisms can fill the gap created by raw metals
  • How alcohol impairs cognitive function
  • The release and regulation of oxytocin
  • The role of genetics in determining body structure
  • Adaptive features of plants to arid environments
  • Discuss the spread of zoonotic diseases
  • Acquired disease resistance in plants
  • Different methods of wildlife conservation
  • Effects of vibration on blood flow
  • Heavy metals and the problems they cause
  • Human causes of extinction
  • How the brain protects itself
  • Factors that contribute to evolution
  • Parasitism in plants
  • Hypersensitivity in humans
  • Impacts of climate change on animals
  • Cell differentiation in humans
  • Behaviours of orcas in their natural environment
  • Temperature regulation in benthic zones
  • Hyper-parasitism in animals
  • Quality control measures in ensuring drug purity during production
  • Effects of spoilage causing microorganisms outside their natural habitat
  • The contributions of cloning to modern day science
  • The link between genetics and obesity
  • Environmental factors that influence eating disorders

All these topics were specially created with the mind of engaging and informing the readers and writer. With these biology research topics, college students can rest easy, knowing that their research papers cover as many important and interesting topics as possible.

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212 Unique Biology Research Topics For Students And Researchers

biology research topics

Every student studying something related to biology — botany, marine, animal, medicine, molecular or physical biology, is in an interesting field. It’s a subject that explores how animate and inanimate objects relate to themselves. The field unveils the past, the present, and what lies in the future of the relationship between the living and nonliving things.

This is precisely why you need custom and quality biology topics for your college and university essay or project. It’ll make it easy to brainstorm, research, and get to writing straight away. Before the deep dive, what is biology?

What Is Biology?

Everyone knows it’s the scientific study of life, but beyond that, biology facilitates the comprehension of living and nonliving things. It’s a branch that explores their anatomy, behavior, distribution, morphology, and physiology.

For example, it understands how genes are classified and constituted into generations. It encompasses various branches, including botany, medicine, genetics, ecology, marine biology, zoology, and molecular biology.

Here are what some of these mean:

Botany: This study of plants examines their structure, physiology, ecology, economic importance, and distribution, among others. It also deals with their biochemical processes, properties, and social interactions between plants. It extends to how plants are vital for human life, survival, and growth and how they play a significant role in stabilizing environmental health. Zoology: Zoology studies animal behavior, brain, structure, physiology, class, and distribution. It’s the general study of the lives of both living and extinct animals. It explains animal classification, the animal kingdom, evolution, habitat, embryology, and life span. Physiology: Physiology deals with the daily functions of the human body: How it works and the factors that make it work. It examines molecular behavior, the chemistry and physics behind locomotion, and how the cells in the living organisms’ body function. It helps understand how humans and animals get sick and what can be done to alleviate pain. Microbiology: Dealing with microorganisms, it examined how viruses, algae, fungi, bacteria, protozoa, and slime molds become parts of human life. They’re regarded as microbes, which play substantial roles in the human biochemical processes, including climate change, biodegradation, biodeterioration, food spoilage, biotech, and epidemiology. Marine Biology: This is the scientific study of organs in the sea. It understands their family classification, how they survive, and what makes wild marine animals different from domesticated and consumable ones. It also explores their interaction with the environment through several processes. The marine biologist studies marines in their natural environment, collects data on their characteristics, human impact on their living, and how they relate with themselves.

Now that you know all these, here are some custom biology topics to research for your university or college essay and paper.

Controversial Biology Topics

There are many controversial subjects in every field, and biology isn’t exempt from controversy. If you’d like to create an original essay through diverse opinions, here are biology topics for you:

  • What are your thoughts on the post-Roe V Wade world?
  • How can the post-Roe V Wade policy affect developing countries looking up to America for their laws?
  • Abortion and feminism: discuss
  • Does saving life justify cloning?
  • Explain the principle of abortion in medical practice
  • The effects of cloning in medicine
  • How does genetics contribute to obesity?
  • Explain why a parent could have Hepatitis B virus and only one of five offspring have the virus
  • Is homosexuality really in the gene?
  • How does depression correlate with genetics?
  • Additives and how they affect the genes
  • Examine how genetic mutations work
  • Discuss the grounds that you could prove for legalizing human cloning
  • Which is more immoral: Human or animal cloning?
  • How is nanotechnology different from biotechnology?
  • Discuss the manifestation of nanotechnology in science
  • Explain three instances where public opinion has held back scientific inventions
  • How does transgenic crop work?
  • Would you say genetically modified food is safe for consumption?
  • Explain why sexual abuse leads to trauma.

Biology Research Paper Topics

You’d need to write an extensive paper on biology one day. This could be when you’re in your final year in college or the university or submitting to a competition. You’d need Biology topics to research for brainstorming, and here are 30 of them:

  • Stem cells and tissue formation processes
  • Why are there different congenital disabilities?
  • Mixtures in anticancer drugs?
  • What are the complexities of existing HIV drugs?
  • What is the contribution of chemotherapy to cancer?
  • Examine the chemotherapy process and why it doesn’t work for some patients.
  • Explain the origin of developmental diseases
  • How do germs affect the cells?
  • What are the consequences of the sun on the white person’s and black person’s skin?
  • Why are some diseases treatable through drugs while some are not?
  • Scientific lessons learned from COVID-19 and ideas to tackle the next virus
  • If animals are carriers of the virus, what should be done to them?
  • Examine five animals in extinction and what led to it
  • Discuss the subject of endangered species and why people should care
  • Is a plant-based diet sustainable for human health?
  • Account for the consequence of living on Mars on human health
  • Discuss the inconveniences involved in space travel
  • How does space flight contribute to environmental disasters
  • Discuss the emergence of leukemia
  • Explain how the immune systems in humans work
  • Evaluate the factors that weaken the immunological system
  • What would you consider the deadliest virus?
  • Autoimmune: what is it, origin and consequences
  • Immune disorder: origin and how it affects the body
  • Does stress affect the ability to have sex?
  • Contribution of vaccine to eradicating disease: Discuss
  • What are the complexities in taking the Hepatitis B vaccine while being positive?
  • Allergies: why do humans have them?
  • DNA modification: how does it work?
  • Explain the misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Interesting Biology Topics

Biology doesn’t have to be boring. Different aspects of biology could be fun to explore, especially if you’ve had a flair for the study since your elementary school classes.

You can either write an essay or paper with the following interesting biology research topics:

  • Human emotions and conflicts with their intellectual intelligence
  • Emotions: Its influence on art and music and how the perception of art influences the world
  • The consequences of marijuana and alcohol on teenagers
  • Compare and contrast how alcohol affects teenagers and adults
  • Discuss the contributions of neuroscience to the subject of emotional pain
  • Explain how the brain process speech
  • Discuss the factors that cause autism
  • Explain what is meant when people say humans are animals
  • Why do scientists say humans are pessimists?
  • Factors contributing to the dopamine levels human experience
  • How does isolation affect the human brain?
  • What factors contribute to instinctive responses?
  • Noise pollution: how it affects living organisms
  • Fire ecology: The contributions of plants to fire outbreak
  • Explain the science behind how hot temperature, soil, and dry grass start a fire
  • Microbes: what do you understand by bioremediation?
  • Explain urban ecology and the challenges it pokes to solve
  • Discuss how excessive internet usage affects the human memory
  • Evaluate how conservation biology contributes to the extinction prevention efforts
  • Discuss the role of satellites and drones in understanding the natural world
  • Why do we need space travel and studies?
  • Explain the limitations of limnology studies
  • What are infectious-disease-causing agents all about?
  • Discuss what epigenetics studies encompass
  • Why is cancer research essential to the world?
  • Discuss climate change: Governments are not interested, and there is no alternative
  • How is behavioral science studies a core part of the understanding of the world?
  • Discuss the issues with genetic engineering and why it’s a challenge
  • Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses in the arguments for a plant-based diet
  • Create a survey amongst students of biology asking why they chose to study the course.

Biology Research Topics For College Students

If you find any of the above beyond your intellectual and Research capacity, here are some topics you can handle. You can use these for your essays, projects, quizzes, or competitions.

These custom yet popular biology research topics will examine famous personalities and other discourse in biology:

  • Effects of the human hormone on the mind
  • Why do men get erect even when they’re absentminded?
  • How does women’s arousal work?
  • How can melatonin be valuable for therapy?
  • Risky behavior: Hormones responsible for the risk
  • Stem and cloning: what is the latest research on the subject?
  • Hormones: changes in pregnancy
  • Why do pregnant women have an appetite for random and remote things?
  • The role of physical activities in hormone development
  • Examine the benefits and threats of transgenic crops
  • The fight against COVID-19: assess current successes
  • The fight against smallpox: assess current successes
  • The fight against HIV: history, trends, and present research
  • Discuss the future of prosthetic appliances
  • Examine the research and the future of mind-controlled limbs
  • What does cosmetic surgery mean, and why is it needed?
  • Analyze the meaning and process of vascular surgery
  • Discuss the debate around changes in genital organs for males and females in transgender bodies
  • How do donors and organ transplants work?
  • Account for the work of Dr. Malcom E Miller
  • Discuss the contribution of Charles Darwin to human evolution
  • Explain the trends in biomedicine
  • Discuss the functions of x-rays in botany
  • Assess the most efficient systems for wildlife preservation
  • Examine how poverty contributes to climate hazards
  • Discuss the process involved in plant metabolism
  • The transformation of energy into a living thing: discuss
  • Prevention for sexually transmitted disease: What are the misconceptions?
  • Analyze how the human body reacts to poison
  • Russian Poisoning: What are the lessons scientists must learn?
  • COVID-19: Discuss the efforts by two or three governments to prevent the spread
  • Discuss the contributions of Pfizer during the pandemic.

Marine Biology Research Topics

This subject explains orgasms in the sea, how they survive, and their interaction with their environment. If you have a flair for this field, the following Biology research topics may interest you:

  • Discuss what quantitative ecology through modeling means
  • Smallest diatoms and marine logistics: discuss
  • How is the shark studied?
  • Acidification of seas: Causes and consequences
  • Discuss the concept of the immortality of Jellyfishes
  • Discuss the differences between seawater and freshwater in marine study
  • Account for some of the oldest marine species
  • Discuss the evolution of the deep sea
  • Explain whales’ communication techniques
  • What does plankton ecology encompass?
  • The importance of coral reefs to seawater
  • Challenges that encompass geological oceanography
  • How tourism affects natural animal habitat
  • Discuss some instances of the domestication of wild marine animals
  • Coastal zone: pros and cons of living in such areas
  • How do sharks perceive enemies?
  • Analyze why some animals can live in water but can’t live on land
  • Explain how plants survive in the sea
  • Compare and contrast the different two species of animals in the water
  • How can marine energy be generated, stored, and used?

Molecular Biology Research Topics

Focusing on the construct of cells and analysis of their composition, it understands the alteration and maintenance of cellular processes. If you’d like to focus on molecular biology, here are 15 good biology research topics for you:

  • Ethical considerations in molecular genetics
  • Discuss the structure and component of the gene
  • Examine the restrictions in DNA
  • What are the peculiarities in modern nucleic acid analysis
  • What goes into the Pharmaceutical production of drugs
  • Evaluate the building blocks of life
  • Discuss the systems of RNA translation to protein
  • PCR: How DNA is tested and analyzed
  • Why is prion disease so dangerous?
  • Compare and contrast recessive genes vs. dominant genes
  • Can there be damage to the human DNA, and can it be repaired?
  • Constraints in the research of microarray data analysis
  • Protein purification: How it evolves
  • Objectives of nucleic acid
  • Explain the structure of a prion.

Biology Research Topics For High School

Your teachers and professors will be awed if you create impeccable essays for your next report. You need to secure the best grades as you move closer to graduation, and brainstorming any of these popular biology research topics will help:

  • Identify the most endangered species
  • The challenges to animal extinction
  • What are the things everyone should know about sea life?
  • Discuss the history of genetics
  • Explain the biological theory of Charles Darwin
  • How did the lockdown affect social interaction?
  • Why do some people refuse the vaccine?
  • Origin of genetics
  • What is animal hunting, and why is it fashionable
  • Explain the evolution of a virus
  • Role of lockdown in preventing deaths and illnesses
  • Invasive species: What does it mean?
  • Endangered animals: How do they survive in the face of their hazards?
  • Lockdown and their role in reducing coronavirus transmission
  • Vaccine distribution: Ideas for global distribution
  • Why can viruses become less virulent?
  • Discuss the evolution of the world
  • Explain the evolution of the planet
  • Explain what Elon Musk means when he says life on Mars is possible
  • What does herd immunity mean?
  • Flu: why is there a low incidence in 2020?
  • Relationship between archaeology and biology
  • Antiviral drug: What it means
  • Factors leading to the evolution of humans
  • Give instances of what natural selection means
  • What is considered the dead branches of evolution
  • Whale hunting: What it means and the present trends
  • Who is Stephen Jay, and what is his role in paleontology?
  • Origin of diseases: why must humans fall sick?
  • Why are humans called higher animals?

Human Biology Research Topics

Human biology understands humans and their relationship between themselves and their environment. It also studies how the body works and the impediments to health. Here are some easy biology research topics to explore on the subject:

  • How do gut bacteria affect the brain?
  • What are the ethical concerns around organ transplants?
  • The consequence of alcohol on the liver
  • The consequences of extreme salt on the human body
  • Why do humans need to deworm regularly?
  • The relationship between obesity and genetics
  • Genetically modified foods: Why are they needed?
  • How sun exposure affects human skin
  • Latest trends: Depression is hereditary
  • Influence of music on the human brain
  • What are the stages of lung cancer
  • Forensic DNA: latest trends
  • How visual consumptions affect how humans think
  • What is the process that leads to pregnancy?
  • Explain the role of nanotechnology in HIV research
  •  Discuss any experiment with stem cells you know about
  • Explain how humans consume food
  • Discuss the process of metabolism as well as its criticality to human health
  • Explore the consistent challenges technology poses to human health
  • Explain the process of body decay to a skeleton.

Cell Biology Research Topics

There are many evolutionary biology research paper topics formed not by the nomenclature but for what they stand for. Cell biology is one of the most complex branches of the field.

It examines minor units and the living organisms that make them up. The focus is on the relationship between the cytoplasm, membrane, and parts of the cell. Here are some topics to explore for your scientific dissertation writing :

  • How does chromatin engage in the alterations of gene expression?
  • What are the usual cell infections, and why does the body have immunity defections?
  • Identify and account for the heritage of Robert Brown in his core career focus
  • Explain the structure of the animal cell and why It’s what it is
  • Identify the cells in the human body as well as their functions
  • Explain a scenario and justify the context of animals photosynthesizing like plants
  • Why do bacteria invade the body, and how do they do it?
  • Why are mitochondria considered the powerhouse of the cell
  • Use the molecular analysis tool to explain multicellular organisms
  • Examine how the White blood cells fight disease
  • What do you understand about the role of cell biology in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
  • What are the latest research methods in cell biology?
  • Identify the characteristics of viruses and why they threaten human existence.
  • Discuss the differences between DNA and RNA
  • What part of the body is responsible for human functionality for as long as the individual wants?

Get Biology Research Help As Soon As Possible

Creating the best essays or papers is easier now that you have custom biology research topics. However, you may still need support writing your paper beyond these topic ideas. After all, the first stage of writing like experts is brainstorming ideas and researching which is most feasible to write about.

If you truly want to wow your professor or teacher but can’t afford to dedicate all the required time, here’s an alternative. You can hire writing helpers online for quality papers at a cheap price, and we can help with that. We are a team of writers with many years of writing experience for students in Europe and North America. You can even buy thesis online with us, as well as editing services.

Each paper is assigned to writers with expertise in a specific field. This enables them to provide in-depth analysis as your assignment requires. We’re based online, which means you won’t have issues with accessibility and availability. Just tell us what you need, and we will get it done.

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350+ Biology Research Topics

Biology Research Topics

Biology is a vast field of study that explores the diverse aspects of life, from the smallest organisms to the complex ecosystems they inhabit. With new discoveries being made every day, the field of biology is constantly evolving and expanding. As a result, there are numerous research topics within biology that can capture the imagination of students, researchers , and professionals alike. Whether you’re interested in genetics, ecology, microbiology, or any other subfield of biology, there is no shortage of fascinating topics to explore. In this post, we will discuss some of the most compelling biology research topics that you can delve into.

Biology Research Topics

Biology Research Topics are as follows:

  • The role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
  • The effects of climate change on animal behavior and physiology.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cancer development and progression.
  • The evolutionary origins of human language.
  • The impact of pesticides on insect populations and ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of aging and longevity.
  • The ecological importance of microbial communities in soil.
  • The physiology and behavior of marine mammals.
  • The molecular mechanisms of viral infections.
  • The evolutionary history of flowering plants.
  • The ecological impacts of invasive species.
  • The role of epigenetics in gene regulation and disease.
  • The evolution of social behavior in animals.
  • The physiology and ecology of birdsong.
  • The impact of antibiotics on gut microbiota and human health.
  • The role of the microbiome in psychiatric disorders.
  • The evolutionary history of human migrations.
  • The ecological and physiological effects of light pollution on animals.
  • The mechanisms of cell division and differentiation.
  • The ecological impacts of deforestation.
  • The molecular mechanisms of drug addiction.
  • The genetic basis of plant resistance to pests and diseases.
  • The evolutionary history of human diet and nutrition.
  • The molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases.
  • The ecology and evolution of sexual selection.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on animals.
  • The role of epigenetics in plant development and stress response.
  • The evolutionary history of animal domestication.
  • The molecular mechanisms of genetic diseases.
  • The ecological impacts of climate change on plants.
  • The evolutionary history of human mating systems.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of noise pollution on animals.
  • The genetic basis of intelligence and cognitive abilities.
  • The ecological and physiological effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms.
  • The molecular mechanisms of immune system function and dysfunction.
  • The evolutionary history of human social structures.
  • The ecological impacts of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of animal migration.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light and dark cycles on animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of symbiosis.
  • The molecular mechanisms of gene regulation and expression.
  • The evolutionary history of human disease resistance.
  • The ecological impacts of overfishing on marine ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of animal communication.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of temperature changes on animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of parasitism.
  • The molecular mechanisms of circadian rhythms.
  • The evolutionary history of human social cognition.
  • The ecological impacts of urbanization on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • The impact of climate change on insect population dynamics.
  • The role of the microbiome in the development of autoimmune diseases.
  • The genetic basis of complex human diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
  • The evolution of plant secondary metabolites and their ecological functions.
  • The effects of anthropogenic noise on animal communication and behavior.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein synthesis and folding.
  • The role of RNA in gene expression and regulation.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial symbioses in plants.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air temperature changes on animals.
  • The genetic basis of crop domestication and improvement.
  • The evolution of reproductive strategies in animals.
  • The impacts of plastic pollution on terrestrial ecosystems.
  • The molecular mechanisms of stem cell differentiation and regeneration.
  • The ecological dynamics of predator-prey interactions.
  • The role of gut microbiota in the regulation of host metabolism.
  • The genetic basis of host-pathogen coevolution.
  • The evolution of social cognition and cooperation in animals.
  • The ecological and physiological effects of wildfires on ecosystems.
  • The molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation in eukaryotic cells.
  • The role of microorganisms in soil nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning.
  • The genetic basis of plant-pathogen interactions.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in the ocean.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of water pollution on aquatic organisms.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein degradation and turnover.
  • The impact of urbanization on pollinator populations and plant-pollinator interactions.
  • The genetic basis of insecticide resistance in pests.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and perception.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of host-parasite interactions.
  • The role of epigenetic modifications in plant adaptation to environmental stress.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of endocrine disruptors on animals.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.
  • The impact of ocean warming on coral reef ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of animal personality traits.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial symbioses in animals.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light quality on plants.
  • The molecular mechanisms of RNA editing and splicing.
  • The role of microbial communities in plant-pathogen interactions.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of seed dispersal.
  • The genetic basis of animal coloration and pattern.
  • The impact of climate change on plant phenology and productivity.
  • The molecular mechanisms of signal transduction in cells.
  • The role of microbial communities in the human gut-brain axis.
  • The ecology and evolution of animal migrations.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of chemical pollution on animals.
  • The genetic basis of animal development and morphogenesis.
  • The evolution of animal social behavior and communication.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-pollinator networks.
  • The molecular mechanisms of intracellular trafficking and transport.
  • The role of microbial communities in the degradation of pollutants.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of species interactions in ecological communities.
  • The role of epigenetics in cancer development and progression.
  • The molecular basis of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • The impact of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The genetic basis of aging and age-related diseases.
  • The evolution of social organization in primates.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-fungal interactions.
  • The role of microbiota in immune system development and function.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA damage and repair.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on marine organisms.
  • The genetic basis of human variation and diversity.
  • The evolution of sexual selection and mate choice in animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of species invasions.
  • The role of microbiota in brain function and behavior.
  • The molecular mechanisms of immune system activation and regulation.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of pollution on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of behavioral disorders and mental illness.
  • The evolution of plant-pollinator mutualisms.
  • The ecological dynamics of predator-prey coevolution.
  • The role of microbiota in metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein-protein interactions and signaling.
  • The genetic basis of complex traits such as intelligence and personality.
  • The evolution of animal communication and language.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of mutualistic interactions in ecological communities.
  • The role of microbiota in the development and maintenance of gut homeostasis.
  • The molecular mechanisms of neurotransmitter synthesis and release.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of artificial light at night on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of developmental disorders such as autism and ADHD.
  • The evolution of host-parasite coevolution and adaptation.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-herbivore interactions.
  • The role of microbiota in the regulation of metabolism and energy balance.
  • The molecular mechanisms of membrane transport and signaling.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of habitat fragmentation on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of circadian rhythms and sleep disorders.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and decision-making.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of trophic cascades.
  • The role of microbiota in the development and function of the respiratory system.
  • The molecular mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of endocrine disruptors on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of developmental plasticity and adaptation.
  • The evolution of animal social learning and culture.
  • The ecological dynamics of predator-prey interactions in aquatic systems.
  • The role of microbiota in the regulation of host immunity and inflammation.
  • The molecular mechanisms of RNA interference and gene silencing.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on migratory animals.
  • The genetic basis of drug addiction and substance abuse disorders.
  • The evolution of animal cooperation and conflict resolution.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of niche construction.
  • The role of microbiota in the regulation of host-microbe interactions.
  • The molecular mechanisms of gene regulation by non-coding RNAs.
  • The role of epigenetics in gene expression and regulation.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA damage response and repair.
  • The impact of environmental toxins on human health.
  • The evolutionary origins of viruses and their impact on hosts.
  • The genetics of aging and age-related diseases.
  • The impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms.
  • The molecular basis of cancer development and progression.
  • The genetic basis of behavior in animals.
  • The impact of environmental stressors on plant growth and productivity.
  • The evolution of sex determination and sexual selection.
  • The role of the immune system in host-microbe interactions.
  • The molecular mechanisms of circadian rhythms and sleep.
  • The impact of air pollution on respiratory health.
  • The genetic basis of speciation and hybridization.
  • The role of neurotransmitters in brain function and behavior.
  • The ecological dynamics of microbial communities in soil.
  • The impact of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
  • The molecular mechanisms of viral entry, replication, and release.
  • The genetics of plant domestication and diversification.
  • The role of mitochondrial DNA in aging and disease.
  • The impact of deforestation on ecosystem functioning.
  • The molecular basis of drug addiction and treatment.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation and evolution in response to environmental change.
  • The role of gut-brain signaling in behavior and disease.
  • The impact of noise pollution on wildlife populations.
  • The genetic basis of plant morphology and development.
  • The role of the microbiome in disease susceptibility and resistance.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-insect interactions.
  • The impact of agricultural practices on soil health and biodiversity.
  • The molecular mechanisms of gene regulation in development and disease.
  • The genetic basis of complex traits in humans and animals.
  • The role of cytokines in immune response and inflammation.
  • The ecological dynamics of microbial communities in aquatic ecosystems.
  • The impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems.
  • The molecular mechanisms of genome stability and repair.
  • The genetics of rare and common genetic diseases.
  • The role of the endocannabinoid system in health and disease.
  • The ecological dynamics of competition and cooperation in populations.
  • The impact of light pollution on wildlife behavior and ecology.
  • The genetic basis of animal migration and navigation.
  • The role of the microbiome in host metabolism and energy balance.
  • The impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and food security.
  • The molecular mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance and transmission.
  • The genetics of human brain development and disorders.
  • The role of pheromones in animal communication and behavior.
  • The ecological dynamics of host-microbe-pathogen interactions.
  • The effect of diet and nutrition on gut microbiome diversity and composition.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial interactions in the soil.
  • The role of epigenetic modifications in cancer development and progression.
  • The impact of climate change on marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial respiration and ATP synthesis.
  • The role of non-coding RNAs in gene regulation and disease.
  • The evolution and diversification of flowering plants.
  • The effects of artificial light at night on animal behavior and physiology.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to extreme environments.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-microbe interactions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of noise pollution on wildlife.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA methylation and histone modification.
  • The role of microbial communities in the cycling of nutrients in aquatic ecosystems.
  • The evolution of animal color vision and perception.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of mutualistic interactions.
  • The impact of deforestation on soil fertility and carbon storage.
  • The molecular mechanisms of viral replication and pathogenesis.
  • The role of microorganisms in the biodegradation of plastics.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in the human gut.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on birds.
  • The impact of invasive species on native ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of developmental disorders and intellectual disabilities.
  • The evolution of animal behavior and communication in response to anthropogenic change.
  • The ecological dynamics of soil carbon sequestration and storage.
  • The role of microbial communities in the decomposition of organic matter.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on plants.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cellular differentiation and tissue development.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-animal interactions.
  • The genetic basis of resistance to herbicides and pesticides in crops.
  • The impact of urbanization on bird diversity and distribution.
  • The role of microorganisms in the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in soil.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of invasive species interactions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on reptiles and amphibians.
  • The role of microbial communities in the degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons.
  • The genetic basis of plant development and growth.
  • The evolution of animal migration and dispersal.
  • The impact of land use change on freshwater biodiversity.
  • The molecular mechanisms of membrane transport and ion channels.
  • The role of microorganisms in the cycling of sulfur and phosphorus in soil.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms.
  • The genetic basis of behavior and personality traits in humans.
  • The evolution of plant reproductive strategies and pollination systems.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of predator-prey coevolution.
  • The impact of environmental stressors on gene expression and epigenetics.
  • The evolution of sexual reproduction and mating systems in plants.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioremediation of contaminated sites.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on fish.
  • The molecular mechanisms of chromatin remodeling and gene regulation.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to high altitude environments.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-insect interactions.
  • The impact of pesticide use on insect biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The role of microorganisms in nitrogen fixation and cycling.
  • The genetic basis of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline.
  • The evolution of social behavior and cooperation in animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of plant invasions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of noise pollution on humans.
  • The molecular mechanisms of RNA splicing and alternative splicing.
  • The role of microorganisms in biogeochemical cycling of trace elements.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to extreme temperatures.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in soil and water.
  • The impact of climate change on insect phenology and distribution.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein folding and misfolding.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of environmental pollutants.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and intelligence.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of predator-prey interactions.
  • The impact of anthropogenic noise on marine mammals.
  • The role of microorganisms in biofilm formation and quorum sensing.
  • The genetic basis of speciation and hybridization in plants.
  • The evolution of parental care and offspring development in animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of food web interactions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on human health.
  • The molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation and gene expression.
  • The role of microorganisms in plant growth promotion and disease suppression.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to drought stress in crops.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial interactions in the ocean.
  • The impact of land use change on soil erosion and nutrient cycling.
  • The molecular mechanisms of autophagy and programmed cell death.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of pharmaceuticals.
  • The genetic basis of immune system variation and disease susceptibility.
  • The evolution of animal social networks and communication systems.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of biodiversity loss.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light pollution on nocturnal animals.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA repair and genome stability.
  • The role of microorganisms in the production of biofuels and bioplastics.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to salinity stress in plants.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial symbioses with plants and animals.
  • The impact of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cellular senescence and aging.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of synthetic organic compounds.
  • The genetic basis of variation in complex traits in humans.
  • The evolution of animal social behavior and cultural transmission
  • The genetic basis of cancer development and progression.
  • The role of microorganisms in the gut microbiome and human health.
  • The genetic basis of phenotypic plasticity and adaptation in plants.
  • The evolution of animal migration and navigation.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of community assembly.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light and dark cycles on circadian rhythms.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein synthesis and degradation.
  • The role of microorganisms in nitrogen and carbon cycling in aquatic ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of sex determination and differentiation in animals.
  • The ecology and evolution of predator-prey coevolution.
  • The impact of anthropogenic activities on marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioleaching and biomining of metals.
  • The genetic basis of inherited disorders and genetic diseases.
  • The evolution of animal social behavior and communication systems.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of competition and coexistence.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of endocrine disruptors on human health.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cell division and mitosis.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of plastics and synthetic materials.
  • The genetic basis of epigenetic inheritance and regulation.
  • The ecology and evolution of mutualistic symbioses in plants and animals.
  • The impact of habitat fragmentation on species diversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioremediation of oil spills.
  • The genetic basis of drug resistance in pathogens and cancer cells.
  • The evolution of animal personality and individual variation.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of biotic interactions in freshwater ecosystems.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of artificial sweeteners on human health.
  • The molecular mechanisms of intracellular trafficking and secretion.
  • The role of microorganisms in biocontrol of plant pathogens and pests.
  • The genetic basis of hybridization and introgression in animals and plants.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-pollinator mutualisms.
  • The impact of climate change on marine ecosystems and fisheries.
  • The molecular mechanisms of genome editing and gene therapy.
  • The role of microorganisms in biogas production and carbon capture.
  • The genetic basis of developmental disorders and birth defects.
  • The evolution of animal coloration and camouflage.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of invasive species.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on wildlife.
  • The molecular mechanisms of signal transduction and cell signaling.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of pharmaceuticals and personal care products.
  • The genetic basis of reproductive isolation and speciation.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial interactions with plants and insects.
  • The impact of climate change on bird migration and breeding patterns.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein-protein interactions and protein complexes.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioremediation of heavy metals.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and learning.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of biodiversity hotspots.
  • The impact of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems.
  • The genetics of complex diseases and personalized medicine.
  • The evolution of plant defense mechanisms against herbivores.
  • The role of microorganisms in soil carbon sequestration.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light on plant growth and development.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cancer metastasis and invasion.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in the human body.
  • The impact of climate change on migratory bird populations.

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Top 100 biology research topics for high school and college.

biology research topics

Writing a biology essay may not sound like a very difficult thing to do. In fact, most students really like this subject. The problem is not that you can’t write a good paper on a topic in biology. The problem is with finding excellent biology research topics. Now, you may be wondering why you would want to invest so much time into finding great biology research paper topics. After all, what you write in the essay matters more than the topic, right? Wrong! We are here to tell you that professors really appreciate interesting and unique topics.

And it makes a lot of sense, if you think about it. If you simply pick one of the most popular biology research topics, you will never be able to pique the interest of your teacher. He has read dozens, if not hundreds, or papers on that exact same topic. What you want to do is come up with interesting biology research topics. You want to find topics that none of your classmates are thinking of writing an academic paper about. You will shortly see why this is important. And we will also give you 100 biology topics for research projects that you can use for free – right now!

Biology Research Paper Topics Really Are Important!

It doesn’t matter what area of biology you need to write about. This information applies to everything from zoology and botany to anatomy. The reality is that your professor will really appreciate good topics. And you can rest assured that he or she knows how to spot them. The moment the professor starts to read your paper, he or she will immediately realize that you really did your best to find an excellent topic. And if you write a good introduction paragraph (which contains a captivating thesis statement as well), you are in the best position to earn bonus points.

You may not be aware of it, but teachers are willing to treat great papers with more leniency. This means that you will not get penalized for minor mistakes if you come up with a great topic. In other words, you will get a better grade on your papers if you manage to come up with good research topics for biology. This is a fact and it is based on thousands of pieces of feedback from our readers.

How Do You Choose Good Biology Research Topics?

Choosing research topics for biology can be a daunting task. Frankly, the research paper topics biology students are looking for are not easy to come by. The first thing you want to avoid is going to the first website that pops up in Google and getting your ideas from there. Most of your peers will do the same. Also, avoid topics that are extremely simple. You will simply not have enough ideas to write about. Of course, you should avoid overly complex topics because finding information about them may be extremely difficult.

The best way to find a good topic, in our opinion, is to get in touch with an academic writing company. You will get access to a professional writer who knows exactly what professors are looking for. A writer will quickly give you an amazing research topic in biology.

Eloquent Examples of Popular Biology Research Topics

To make things as simple as possible for you, we’ve put together a list of biology research project ideas. You will find 100 topics on various subjects below. Of course, you can use any of our topics for free. However, keep in mind that even though we are doing our best to maintain this list fresh, other students will find it as well. If you need new topics for your next biology essay, we recommend you to get in touch with us. We monitor our email address, so we can help you right away. Also, you can buy a research paper from our service.

Biology Research Topics for High School

Are you looking for biology research topics for high school? These are relatively simple when compared to college-level topics. Here are a couple of topic ideas that high school students will surely appreciate:

  • Identifying Three Dead Branches of Evolution.
  • What Is Sleep?
  • How Does Physical Exercise Affect the Metabolism?
  • A Behavioral Study of Birds.
  • How Does Music Affect Your Brain?
  • Climate Change and Biodiversity.
  • Are Bees Really Becoming Extinct?
  • Rainforest Extinction Is Dangerous.
  • The Benefits of Organic Farming.
  • Can the Brain Repair Itself?
  • The Effect of Bacteria on Depression.
  • How Do Sea Animals Camouflage?

Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates

Research topics in biology for undergraduates are more complex than high school or college topics. Our researchers did their best to find topics that are relatively complex. However, each one of the following topics has plenty of information about it online:

  • What Is the Mechanism of Metastasis in Cancer Patients?
  • How Do Tumor Suppressor Genes Appear?
  • How Can We Destroy Cancer Cells Without Damaging Other Cells?
  • The Benefits of Gene Therapy.
  • Analyzing the Huntington’s Disease (the HTT Gene).
  • How Does the down Syndrome (Trisomy of 21st Chromosome) Appear?
  • Analyzing the Brain Activity During an Epileptic Seizure.
  • How Are Our Memories Formed and Preserved?
  • The Effect of Probiotics on Infections.
  • Analyzing Primate Language.
  • Analyzing Primate Cognitive Functions.
  • The Link Between Darwin’s Theory and Biology.

Biology Research Topics for College Students

Biology research topics for college students are of moderate difficulty. They are easier than undergrad topics and more complex than high school topics. While compiling this list, we made sure you have more than enough information online to write the paper quickly:

  • Using DNA Technology in the Field of Medical Genetics.
  • The Effect of Drinking on Embryonic Development.
  • How Are Genes Mapped and Cloned?
  • Explain What Genetic Polymorphism Is.
  • What Is a Hereditary Disease?
  • The Effect of Drugs on Embryonic Development.
  • Describing Oligogenic Diseases (like Hirschsprung Disease)
  • What Is the Mendelian Inheritance?
  • How Transcriptomics and Proteomics Changed Modern Medicine.
  • The Risk Factors of Infertility Explained.
  • How Does Aging Effect Infertility?
  • What Do Ash Elements Do in a Plant?
  • Explaining the Pigments in a Plant Cell.
  • How Is Photosynthesis Done?
  • The Role of Fats in Plant Cells.
  • The Effect of Smoking on Embryonic Development.

Cell Biology Research Topics

Some of the best biology topics are cell biology research topics. The scientific community is constantly making progress in this area, so there is always something new to write about. Here are some of the best examples:

  • What Is Regenerative Medicine?
  • A Closer Look at Tissue Engineering.
  • Discuss the Future of Regenerative Medicine.
  • Analyzing Therapeutic Cloning.
  • The Pros and Cons of Creating Artificial Organs.
  • How Do Cell Age?
  • Can We Reverse Cell Aging?
  • Advances in Cell Therapy.
  • What Is Cell Adhesion?
  • Explaining Cell Division.
  • What Is Cellular Metabolism?
  • Describe Active and Passive Transport in Cells.
  • What Are Cell Plastids?

Evolutionary Biology Research Paper Topics

If you want something more complex, you can try your hand at writing on evolutionary biology research paper topics. As with all our topics, you will be able to find a lot of ideas and information online. Here are our picks:

  • Where Did Plants Come From? (The Evolutionary Theory)
  • Explaining the Host-parasite Coevolution.
  • How Did Parasites Evolve over Time?
  • What Is Natural Selection and How Does It Work?
  • Explain Sexual Selection.
  • Explain Sexual Conflict.
  • How Did Our Immune Systems Evolve?
  • How Do New Species Appear in the Wild?
  • The Evolution of Cell Respiration.
  • What Is the Hippo Pathway? (Developmental Biology)

Various Topics

Antibiotics resistance, agriculture and cloning are hot subjects nowadays. Your professor will surely be interested to learn more about biology research topics. Here is a mix of topic ideas from our established community of academic writers:

  • The Problem of Using Antibiotics on Large Scale.
  • Examining the Effects of Salt on Plants.
  • What Is DNA Technology?
  • The Effects of GMOs on the Human Body.
  • How Is the Quality of Antibiotics Controlled?
  • How Are GMO Food Crops Created?
  • The Effect of Veterinary Antibiotics on Humans.
  • The Allergic Reactions to Specific Antibiotics.
  • A Look at How Penicillin Works in the Human Body.
  • How Are Antibiotics Obtained?
  • What Are Natural Biochemicals with Pest-repellent Properties?
  • The 3 Most Toxic Effects of Antibiotics
  • How the Human Body Develops Resistance to Antibiotics.
  • The Impact of Biology on the Us Agriculture.
  • What Is the Green Revolution?
  • Analyzing the Minerals in the Plant Cell.
  • Analyzing Muscle Development and Regeneration
  • The Uses of Cancer Stem Cells.

Marine Biology Research Topics

There is a lot of talk about global warming, about microplastics in our oceans, and about endangered marine species. This means that marine biology research topics are a very hot topic today. Here are some of our best ideas:

  • Can GMO Organisms Break down Oil after Maritime Accidents?
  • Pollution-absorbing Bio-films.
  • Microbes That Can Absorb Toxic Compounds in the Water.
  • Can We Really Use Bioluminescence?
  • How Is Bio-diesel Created?
  • Analyzing the Coral Reef Biology.
  • Why Is the Lobster Population Dwindling?
  • The Effect of Mass Fishing on the World’s Oceans.
  • Global Warming and Its Effect on Marine Microorganisms.

Molecular Biology Research Topics

Writing about molecular biology research topics is not easy. However, it’s a foolproof way to get a top grade. Your professor will really appreciate your willingness to write an essay about a complex topic. Just make sure you know what you are talking about. Below you can find some of the best topics:

  • How Is Insulin Produced?
  • How Is the Growth Hormone Produced?
  • Analyzing the Repropagation of Translation.
  • What Is DNA-telomerase?
  • The Process of Sequencing Nucleotides in DNA.
  • What Is Telomerase?
  • The Link Between Telomerase and Cancer.
  • The Link Between Telomerase and Aging.
  • How Does DNA Forensics Work?
  • Describe the Process of Protein Metabolism.

There is no such thing as easy biology research topics. When the topic is too simple, you end up getting penalized. You can’t write 500 words about it without straying away from the subject. Also, no matter how interesting the topic may be, you should make sure that the essay is written perfectly. This means that not even interesting biology research topics can save you from a bad grade if you fail to follow all applicable academic writing standards.

Find it hard to cope with your college paper? Great news! Use promo “ mypaper20 ” and enjoy 20% discount on a biology writing assignment from our profs!

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Top 240 Biology Research Topics for Students in 2022

Biology Research Topics for Students

Biology is the scientific study of life and living beings. In this, a student studies physiology, morphology, anatomy, behavior, and other qualities of a living organism. Biology is derived from the Greek words “bios” and “logos”. Bios mean life; logos means study. 

Biology is an essential branch of science and the most crucial branch in itself, the medical science emerged parallelly with biology. Today we are aware of the human body parts and the diseases related to them and the cure to the disease, this is all because of biology. Hence, biology is the most helpful branch of science for living beings.

This field of science could be enhanced by the new generation as they perform research for the sake of humanity and for the betterment of medical science so that, in the future, all living beings can live a disease-free life.

Read also: I always find a trusted place to get the  best research paper topics .

The Main Branches of Biology and Some General Bio Research Topics

Here, we are going to suggest to you some good research topics in biology which might help you in becoming a good researcher. Thus, will eventually help you in settling one more stair upward towards the betterment of medical science.

Top 20 Innovative Research Topics in Biology

  • Genetic engineering.
  • Epidemiology in the case of coronavirus.
  • Astrobiology.
  • Cancerous cells.
  • Endangered species recovery.
  • Toxins in the human body can kill bacteria.
  • Ocean acidification.
  • Stem cell research and therapy.
  • About pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  • Comparative genomics.
  • Molecular and genome evolution.
  • Neurobiological explanation of sleep.
  • Symbiosis in parasites.
  • Modern technology and tools in the research of biology.
  • Change in the behavior of animals due to climate change.
  • Fast food chemicals affect the human body.
  • Is a stressful environment and disturbed ecology reason behind the   humans taking stress.
  • ACHOO syndrome.
  • Protein synthesis.
  • The mixing of races is an example of cross-breeding.

Top 20 Easy Biology Research Topics

  • Male pregnancy in animal species.
  • Immune system.
  • Metabolism.
  • Fertilizers.
  • Transportation of essential minerals in plants.
  • DNA and physical state.
  • Structure of cell.
  • Characteristics of DNA and RNA.
  • Obesity in youngsters.
  • The reason behind giving birth to twins.
  • Top killer viruses.
  • Birth defects.
  • Animal husbandry.
  • Pollution in water bodies.
  • Protection of endangered species.
  • Migratory birds and the reason behind their migration.
  • Adaptation of animals towards environments.
  • Oils spill into oceans.
  • Shale gas reservoirs.
  • Acid rain and its effects on living beings and plants.

Do also go through science research topics  prior to moving ahead !

What are the Branches of Biology and their Research Topics?

Biology is the study of the vital processes in living beings. Biology is further subdivided into various branches to make it convenient to study. Though, the principle in all the components is the same and consistent. Here are mentioned below, a few sub-branches of biology along with their research topics.

Botany is the study of plants . Botany is the detailed study of the function of plants and types. This is the study of, the classes, family, diseases, etc related to plants. Botany is a good area for research and plant lovers can ace the benefits from the topics that we are going to provide them.    

Top 20 Botany Research Topics 

  • Genetic inheritance in plant species.
  • Crop science.
  • Plant diseases.
  • Plant stress physiology.
  • Herbs, shrubs, and trees.
  • Innovation in agriculture.
  • Plants cross-breeding.
  • Cytogenetics.
  • Paleobotany.
  • Staple crops.
  • Multi-cropping.
  • Fuel from sugarcane.
  • Nitrifying monocot grains.
  • High-yield variety of crops.
  • Plant lectins in cancer therapeutics.
  • Synergy among anti-bacterial peptides.
  • Land plant molecular phylogenetics.
  • Describe the role of anti-microbial peptides in the community of plants.
  • What are vascular plant apomorphies?

You might also be interested in knowing  Different Branches of Chemistry

Zoology  

Zoology is the branch of biology that deals with the study and research of animals and the animal kingdom, and how they interact with their ecosystem. The student of zoology comprehensively studies the structure, embryology, evolution, classification, habits, and distribution of all animals, both living and extinct. 

Research in this branch of biology is a daunting task, it requires lots of observation and patience, as it is difficult to understand the behavior of an animal. Here we are to suggest to you some good zoology research topics having a good scope of research.

Top 20 Zoology Research Topics

  • Phylogeny of invertebrates.
  • Explain Animal kingdoms and classes both horizontally and vertically.
  • The origin and evolution of the multicellular organism.
  • Warm-blooded and cold-blooded animals.
  • Vertebrates and invertebrates.
  • Explain the Development cycle of non-helminths-geohelminths and non-helminths-biohelminths.
  • Discuss the Arthropods' existence and evolution.
  • Crustaceans and their variety.
  • How did the primate evolve?
  • Diversity of flatworms and tapeworms.
  • Types of flagellates.
  • Features of cephalopods.
  • State the difference between Polyplacophora and Monoplacophora.
  • Characteristics of annelids.
  • What is anthropogenesis?
  • Describe the anatomical view of invertebrates and vertebrates.
  • What is the difference between an open and closed circulatory system?
  • The mammals' class system and division.
  • Reptiles and their evolution.
  • Extinct animals and the reason behind their extinctions and a way forward to this.

Genetics is the scientific study of genes and heredity . Researchers notice, how certain qualities or traits are passed from parents to offspring due to changes in the DNA sequence.

A gene is the basic segment of DNA that contains instructions for building one or more molecules that help the body work. The structure, function, variation, and distribution of genes are studied within the context of the cell, the organism, and within the context of the population.

Also Read:   Twin Research and Human Genetics

Writing a research paper on this branch of biology is going to be an exciting task. Here we have a few interesting topics related to genetics:

Top 20 Genetics Research Topics

  • Chromatin structure.
  • Gene editing.
  • Gene therapy.
  • Microbiome.
  • Neuroscience.
  • Epidemiology.
  • Population genetics.
  • Prenatal screening.
  • Genetic abnormalities.
  • Mitochondrial disorders.
  • Pronuclear transfer.
  • Maternal spindle transfer.
  • CRISPR-CAS9 gene editing.
  • Inherited diseases.
  • Parkinson’s disease.
  • Turner syndrome.
  • Klinefelter syndrome.
  • Down syndrome.
  • Fragile X syndrome .

Environmental Biology

Environmental biology lies in resemblance to ecology, it is a scientific program that focuses on the scientific study of the origins, relationships, functions, interactions, and the natural history of all the living beings, populations, species, and communities, in an ecosystem.

Environmental biology is the most crucial branch of biology and an essential topic for research. Due to climate changes and the extinction of some species, This field of biology requires good and comprehensive research so that a step toward the betterment of an environment can be found and taken by humanity. Here we are going to suggest to you some good environmental biology topics.

Top 20 Environmental Biology Research Topics

  • Chemical ecology.
  • Tropical wetland ecology.
  • Animal behavior.
  • Migration of some species due to environmental changes.
  • Renewable energy.
  • Fire ecology.
  • Bioremediation.
  • Environmental justice.
  • Carbon emissions and control.
  • Endemic wildlife.
  • Importance of national parks.
  • The important role played by wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Saving our planet by using green energy.
  • Melting of permafrost.
  • Depletion of the ozone layer.
  • Lungs and heart diseases are increasing due to climate change.
  • Destruction of the forest ecosystem is a matter of concern.
  • Urban migration.
  • Contamination of groundwater.

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Cell Biology   

Cell is the basic unit of life, multiple cells are combined together to form a tissue and multiple tissues are further combined to form an organism. Cell biology is the branch of biology that studies the structure, function, and behavior of cells in different living beings.

Cell biology encompasses the study of both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells and both multicellular and single-cell organisms. As every living being is made up of cells, this branch of science becomes the most important branch of biology and the field of research.

Top 20 Cell Biology Research opics

  • Cytoskeleton.
  • Cell motility.
  • Chromatin and gene expression.
  • Endosymbiosis.
  • Cell evolution.
  • Cellular metabolism.
  • Cell fate determination.
  • Development of the embryo.
  • Organelle biogenesis.
  • Schistosomiasis.
  • Cell differentiation and morphogenesis.
  • Stem cell biology.
  • Host-parasite interaction.
  • Lymphocyte migration.
  • Temporal and spatial control of gene expression.
  • Epigenetics.
  • Cell signaling.
  • Regeneration of cells.
  • Cell division

Biotechnology

Biotechnology is an integrated study of engineering sciences and natural sciences . It is done with the aim to achieve the applications of cells, organisms, and parts for products and services. It is referred to as using a living organism to produce a different product.

For instance, yeast is a living organism used in the baking of bread. This branch of biology also has a wide scope of research, as our food habits are proportionate to food packaging. Hence research in this field becomes mandatory and going to be proved useful. We are going to suggest to you some good research topics in biotechnology .

Top 20 Biotechnology Research Topics

  • Cancer biotechnology.
  • Transplantation biology.
  • Cell and molecular biology.
  • Microbial biotechnology.
  • Environmental biotechnology.
  • Nanobiotechnology.
  • Sustainable and global health biotechnology.
  • Pharmacogenomics of anti-hypertensive drugs.
  • Pharmacogenomics of metformin in diabetes mellitus type2.
  • Medical biotechnology.
  • Proteomics.
  • Structural biology of infectious diseases.
  • Pharmaceutical biotechnology.
  • Agricultural biotechnology.
  • Bioengineering and research.
  • Y-chromosome genotyping.
  • Role of Embelin in cancer.
  • Hypoallergenic fermented foods.
  • Exocellulase and Endocellulase.
  • Techniques of protein purification.

Molecular Biology  

Microbiology is the branch of biology that seeks to understand the function and structure of the macromolecules that are essential for life. The detailed study of the physical and chemical structure of biological macromolecules is called molecular biology . It is essential to understand the chemical function happening in a living being as they affect both the physical and mental health of an organism.

Writing a research paper is also a crucial task as research in this field is a need of an hour because chemical and hormonal changes take place in a body time and to balance these chemical ups and downs in a body a good medicine or a technique is required which can be invented by good research. So your research paper in molecular biology should entail a series of your findings. Here we are to recommend you few topics to research and write about.

Top 20 Molecular Biology Research Topics

  • Structure of DNA.
  • Structure of RNA.
  • Polymerase chain reaction.
  • Recombinant DNA technology.
  • Transcription of genes.
  • Cell division.
  • DNA cloning.
  • Prokaryotic transcription.
  • Eukaryotic transcription.
  • Gene regulations.
  • Protein synthesis in cells.
  • Chromosome building and function during mitosis.
  • Cystic fibrosis.
  • Alkaline phosphatase.
  • Plasmid loss in bacteria.
  • Chemo-enzymatic synthesis.
  • Monoclonal antibodies.
  • Non-histone proteins.
  • Telomerase insufficiency.

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Neurobiology

Neuroscience is the branch of biology that deals with the scientific study and functions of the nervous system. The nervous system is made up of three parts: the brain, the spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system. Neurobiology or neuroscience has a broader scope of research in which a scientist uses different approaches to study the nervous system at different scales. Here we are to suggest to you some really good research topics on neurobiology .

Top 20 Neurobiology Research Topics

  • Cellular and molecular neuroscience.
  • System neuroscience.
  • Cognitive and behavioral neuroscience.
  • Computational neuroscience.
  • Clinical neuroscience.
  • Degenerative brain disorder.
  • Dopamine in the brain. What is its role?
  • Functional organization of memory.
  • Neuroplasticity.
  • Schizophrenia.
  • Enhancing memory through electrical stimulation.
  • Transcranial magnetic stimulation.
  • Postpartum depression.
  • Algorithms in the brain.
  • Effects of LSD.
  • Analyze the prefrontal cortex.
  • Role of the cerebellum.
  • Neurotransmitter disabilities.
  • Role of axon in handling the action potential.
  • Hippocampus area of the brain.

Top 20 Biology Research Topics for High School Students

  • What are cloning and its basic principles?
  • Genetic disorders.
  • Coronaviridae.
  • The human brain and nervous system.
  • The right and left sides of the brain. differentiate them on the basis of functions.
  • Hormonal changes.
  • Immunity system.
  • Open and closed circulatory system.
  • Viviparous organisms.
  • Oviparous organisms.
  • Oxytocin and serotonin.
  • Human reproduction.
  • DNA and physical traits are transferred to offspring.
  • Climate change.
  • Gases are involved in global warming.
  • Tissues in plants.
  • Differentiate between plant tissue and animal tissue.
  • Role of stomata in the process of photosynthesis.
  • Structure of cell and difference between animal and plant cell.

You might also be interested in choosing: Research Topics for High School Students

Top 20 Biology Research Topics for College Students

  • Characteristics of viruses.
  • Single cellular organisms.
  • Research methods in cell biology.
  • Visual cortex.
  • Depression in youngsters.
  • Heartattack these days.
  • Oxidative stress.
  • Cardio exercises.
  • Hormonal changes in the female body.
  • Anatomy of a fish.
  • Anatomy of a cockroach.
  • Anatomy of annelids.
  • Anatomy of a frog.
  • Biological names.
  • Morphology of flowers(rose).
  • Darwin’s theory.
  • Natural selection theory.
  • Survival of the fittest theory.

Conclusion:

Biology is a vast field having many branches and sub-branches . Through this blog, we have discussed with you a few topics of biology for both college and high school students, some innovative and easy topics of biology to research, and comprehensively elaborated on every branch of biology along with its research topics. Our suggestions and discussion will bring you the confidence to write a good biology research paper.

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250+ Best Biology Research Topics for College Students

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Originally Posted On: https://myhomeworkwriters.com/blog/best-biology-research-topics/

When writing a biology research paper, you need to choose insightful biology research topics. The process of selecting the best topics related to biology is challenging for most students.

Biologists study different kinds of organisms, from bacteria to large whales. This interesting science requires you to skillfully select an exciting topic that will enable you to craft a compelling research paper.

Biology is known as the science of life, and it covers a wide range of topics. Read on to find topic ideas on various areas in biology

Biology research topics for high school

There is a wide range of biology topics, from microorganisms to big organisms in plant and animal kingdoms. You can choose a topic that interests you and familiarize yourself with it. The following are biology topics for high school you can use in the brainstorming process

  • Compare different types of cells that living things produce
  • How was hereditary discovered, and who discovered it?
  • Compare the cell structure of two plants
  • Discuss the function of enzymes in the body
  • Explain the process of photosynthesis. How carbon dioxide is converted into oxygen
  • Discuss the process of metabolism in the human body
  • Meiosis vs. Mitosis. Explain the difference
  • How does gene inheritance work?
  • Explain the DNA structure
  • What is PCR, and how is it useful?
  • Discuss the advantages and the disadvantages of cloning
  • Explain natural selection that leads to survival for the fittest
  • Explain the evolution theory
  • Discuss how species in the world are related
  • How do organisms get nutrition?
  • Discuss the extinction of dinosaurs. Do they have relatives today?
  • Discuss the transmission of information in the nervous system
  • What are the mechanisms of the carbon cycle?
  • Discuss the impact of biodiversity
  • Discuss population regulation and factors involved

Biology research topics for college students

You can write a college research paper on tiny organisms in the field of microbiology. These tiny living things consist of microbes like bacteria and fungi.

When scientists study microbiology, they find solutions to  medical   and environmental issues. Here are biology research topics for college students

  • Discuss resistance in microbes
  • Discuss the human immune system and the role of bacteria
  • What are the different types of microbes?
  • How can microbes be useful?
  • Discuss how microbes are involved in soil pollution
  • What are some of the agents that can be used to kill bacteria?
  • How does yeast work? What are its advantages and disadvantages?
  • Virions vs. viroids. What is the difference?
  • What are the functions of cellular agents?
  • Discuss the biochemical found in fungi?
  • Discuss the causes of respiratory conditions in the body
  • How can stress affect the human immune system?
  • Why are vaccines important?
  • Discuss the structure of a molecule
  • Discuss the importance of microbiology in science
  • What are the advantages of microbes?
  • What happens when there are microbes in food?
  • Explain the process of making yogurt? What is the role of bacteria in this process?
  • Discuss the application of microbial
  • What are the groups of protozoa?

Human biology research topics

Human biology is an interesting topic that involves the study of people and populations. When you are writing your biology research paper, you can focus on two of its major parts: anatomy or anthropology.

Anthropology is the study of  human evolution , while anatomy is the study of the human body structure. The following are good biology research topics on human biology

  • How does the respiratory system function?
  • How does anemia affect the body?
  • Discuss human population and its history
  • Discuss anthropology in relation to health
  • What type of information do you gather from reading bones?
  • Discuss human movement
  • Discuss nutrition and its effects on the human body
  • Explore psychology and how it influences the health of human beings
  • Explain how the brain can control human behavior
  • Discuss the bone structure
  • Explain the functions of kidneys in purifying blood
  • Explain the regulation of muscle movement in the body
  • What are reproductive technologies?
  • Discuss the functions of the human skeleton
  • Explain the functions of the cerebral cortex
  • Discuss the relationship between the brain and hormones
  • What are the functions of vitamins in the body?
  • Discuss the composition of blood
  • Discuss how the heart beats and things that can interfere with a heartbeat
  • Discuss the growth of the human population

 Cellular biology research topics

A cell is the basic unit of any living thing. Scientists study cells and investigate their lifecycle and vital functions. This involves the chemical processes that happen in the cell.

You can write interesting biology topics for presentation in this field. Below is a list of relevant topics

  • How can disease affect growth?
  • How much protein does the body need?
  • Explain the process of how cells can heal bones
  • What are the ethical issues concerning stem cells
  • How do cells communicate?
  • How does the environment affect DNA?
  • What can cause cell deformation?
  • Can the process of aging be reversed?
  • How do brain cells receive information?
  • How does the brain store memories?
  • Discuss the shape of cells of someone with sickle cell anemia
  • Discuss the advancement of molecular research
  • Discuss the movement of cells in the body
  • Should glaucoma be treated using surgery?
  • How are cells regenerated in the body?
  • Discuss diffusion in cells
  • What are the different cell types? And what are their functions?
  • Discuss DNA translation
  • What is the role of dead cells?
  • Explain protein biosynthesis

Environmental biology research topics

The field of biology that deals with the environment ensures a harmonious coexistence between human and nature. This field also focuses on pollution and waste disposal, for example, the disposal of wastewater. Below are topic ideas that can help you craft a compelling paper on environmental biology

  • Explain the effects of light in water
  • What are the functions of a dam, and how is it helpful to the environment
  • Discuss the effects of deforestation
  • What causes desertification?
  • Discuss the role of insects in pollination
  • Are there insects that are nutritious and good for human consumption?
  • How to properly dispose of wastewater
  • What causes the number of sea fish to reduce?
  • Explain the best way to dispose of garbage
  • The importance of biodiversity conservation
  • What is the role of warms in the ecosystem?
  • Discuss the conflict between human beings and wildlife
  • Are there toxic algae? What causes them to grow?
  • What are the causes of air pollution?
  • Discuss the causes of pollution in the sea
  • Discuss the impact of genetically modified crops
  • Discuss the risks of air contamination
  • Explain the benefits of natural gas to the environment
  • Explain environmentally friendly ways of conserving energy
  • Discuss human activities that cause water pollution

Marine biology research topics

Many living things underwater, including in seas and oceans, have not yet been discovered. The study of life underwater encompasses all living organisms underwater or close to a water body.

You can write an interesting research paper that will reveal the mysteries in the deep seas. Here are topic ideas you can consider

  • What is the best technology you can use to study marine life?
  • How do dolphins communicate?
  • How are activities in water affecting whales?
  • What are the advantages of living near the sea?
  • How do animals living near water camouflage?
  • How do living things inside water live together?
  • What are the causes of high mercury in fish?
  • What is overfishing, and what are its consequences?
  • How does high temperature affect animals living in water?
  • How do penguins survive? Explain their strategy?
  • How does seafood affect life underwater?
  • What is the role of bacteria in the sea?
  • Are there invasive species? Discuss their types
  • What is the role of birds in marine life?
  • Discuss how starfish feeds in water
  • Discuss the formation of coral reefs
  • How can fish farming help boost the number of fish in the sea?
  • Explain how whales evolve
  • What methods can the government use to regulate fishing?

Plant biology research topics

When writing a plant biology research paper, you will cover different plants. This includes trees of different species to algae of all shapes and sizes.

This type of research helps to improve food and medicine, and conservation. Here are biology research topics you can select

  • Discuss the most common causes of disease in most plants
  • What are the advantages of studying plants?
  • How can human beings take care of plants around them?
  • Discuss the various types of toxic plants
  • Do flowers have a defense mechanism?
  • Discuss why and how trees lose their leaves
  • Discuss some of the nutritious plants
  • Explain how carnivorous plants eat
  • How do plants purify the air?
  • Explain how to preserve plants that are almost extinct
  • Discuss the plant kingdom and problems associated with it
  • Discuss the structure of a plant root
  • What are some of the plants that have medicinal value?
  • How does sound affect the development of plants?
  • Discuss starch production in plants
  • Discuss the growth of weed and why it is excessive
  • How to identify various maize plant diseases
  • Explain how light affects plants
  • Discuss desert plants and how they survive
  • Discuss the growth of a bamboo plant

Interesting biology topics for project

Every living thing goes through change. The changes can be experienced in various areas like ecology, paleontology, or genetics. You can cover these areas in your biology research proposal topics. Here are examples

  • Discuss the changes that take place in a butterfly
  • Discuss the changes that take place in an eagle
  • How is sexual reproduction beneficial?
  • Why is cancer persistent?
  • Discuss how evolution affects society
  • How can a disease evolve?
  • Discuss the human race. Does science support it?
  • How do people age?
  • Does the environment affect evolution?
  • How does genetic drift affect variation?
  • What are the challenges of modern synthesis?
  • What are the main factors that cause disease?
  • Discuss the theory of evolution
  • How do you determine the age of a tree?
  • How does the life history of biology influence the evolution of species?
  • How can a species achieve fitness?
  • How do bees communicate?
  • Discuss animal movement
  • Discuss the evolution of animal psychology?
  • Compare endotherms vs. ectotherms and how they evolve

Developmental biology research topics

Animals and plants go through the developmental process, and their features change. All living things grow from a single cell to a full organism in the developmental process.

Biologists study and track these developmental changes. You can write biology research topics about interesting facts when organisms develop from one stage to the next. The following are topic ideas you can select and brainstorm

  • Describe the development stages of a baby
  • Describe the growth stages of a plant
  • What causes the cognitive disorder? How did it originate?
  • Birds become territorial. Explain why
  • What are developmental mechanisms?
  • Are older people more likely to get cancer?
  • What is the relationship between genes and body structure?
  • How do bones develop?
  • Describe the physical changes in boys and girls as they grow into adulthood
  • Describe the development stages from a zygote until birth
  • Discuss metamorphosis
  • Discuss the changes that take place from a tadpole to a frog
  • Can explosions and other external factors interfere with human physical development?
  • How are new cells produced in a plant?
  • Discuss the development process in a fish
  • How do plants evolve?
  • How does a flower develop into a fruit?
  • Discuss the development of a zebrafish
  • What are the features of desert plants that make them adapt to harsh environmental conditions?
  • How do camels develop and adapt to living in the desert

Epidemiology and population biology topics for research paper

The topic of epidemiology investigates health-related issues and the causes of diseases in a population. Epidemiologists analyze health issues and injuries.

The study of population looks at interactions and environment of populations. This background information will help you decide if you are interested in writing a  research paper  on epidemiology and population. Here are science research topics in this field

  • Discuss the development of population
  • How do diseases spread in humans?
  • How can the spread of disease be contained?
  • Discuss the diseases that heavy metal pollution can cause
  • Discuss how coronavirus spread
  • Describe the causes of malaria
  • What is Asian Carp, and how does it affect the marine population?
  • What are the different kinds of population distribution?
  • Discuss the effects of polio?
  • Discuss ways of achieving moderate growth in population
  • Discuss predator-prey.
  • Discuss resource competition and avoidance mechanism
  • What is a symbiotic relationship?
  • What are the achievements in reducing the spread of  HIV/AIDS ?
  • How to deal with HIV stigma and how the stigma contributes to the spread of HIV
  • Discuss the relationship between HIV and TB
  • Explain how poverty contributes to the spread of HIV in developing countries
  • What are the factors that lead to an increase in population growth?
  • Explain how depression affects society
  • Explain how to prevent an unborn child from contracting the HIV virus

History of biology research topics

Humans in the past had basic biology knowledge that was helpful in finding food and keeping domestic animals. This was before modern scientific studies emerged. Here are some interesting topics that you can write about the history of biology

  • Explain the knowledge of medicine in Ancient China
  • Discuss the history of Agriculture in Africa
  • Discuss the origin of life
  • Explain how historically, plans were used as medicine
  • Explain animal classification
  • Discuss the discovery of penicillin
  • How do animals communicate?
  • What are the relationships between different organisms?
  • What is the contribution of Albertus Magnus to botany?
  • Discuss how Italy has contributed to biological studies
  • Explain the factors that lead to the development of biology
  • How did modern anatomy originate?
  • Explain cell theory
  • When was the microscope invented, and who invented it?
  • What is GMO? Explain the benefits of GMO
  • Discuss how hereditary was discovered
  • Discuss how blood circulation works and who discovered it
  • Discuss the scientific development and biotechnology in Europe
  • Discuss the latest biotechnology
  • Explain the role of bioinformatics regarding the progress of genetic analysis

Biology research topics on hormones and behavior

You can write a research paper on how hormones can influence a person’s behavior. This is an interesting field with scientific evidence that will uncover how hormones can influence moods and wellbeing.

You can discuss this topic with other students who can relate to some conditions. Below are topic ideas you can consider

  • The significance of a particular hormone in the body
  • How is cell structure related to the resistance of antibiotics?
  • How do hormones affect a person’s behavior and mind?
  • What is the connection between hormones and depression?
  • Discuss pregnancy and hormonal changes
  • Discuss how hormonal changes can lead to psychological disorders
  • Describe the effects of bipolar disorder
  • What is the relationship between oxytocin and the reaction of fear?
  • What are some of the diseases related to the endocrine?
  • Discuss hormonal control and the reproductive system
  • Discuss hormonal influence
  • Is there a relationship between endocrinology and metabolism?
  • How can cardio exercises affect hormones?
  • Discuss hormones and women’s mental health

Research topics on the immune system

When writing about the immune system, you will be discussing the defense system in the body. The immune system is the defense mechanism against diseases.

This makes the topic important and interesting. Here are science research topics you can brainstorm

  • Explain the resistance capability of the immune system
  • What are the agents of the immune system, and how do they work?
  • When the immune system is not functioning properly what are the diseases that can occur
  • What is the relationship between stress and immunity?
  • Discuss the various allergic reactions that asthma causes
  • What is immunotherapy, and how can it influence the human body?
  • What are the benefits of vaccination?

Easy biology research topics about animals

You can write a compelling research paper that focuses on one animal or species. Here are topics you can select

  • What are the factors affecting animal growth?
  • Discuss obesity in pets
  • Is it ethical to test beauty products on animals?
  • Discuss the study of bird’s behavior
  • What are the camouflage mechanisms in sea creatures?
  • What is the relationship between veganism and meat production?

Biology research topics on ecology

When you write about ecology topics, you will be discussing how living things relate to each other in their environment. The following are exciting topics that you can use to uncover organisms and their environment

  • What is the relationship between living things and the environment?
  • What ways can plants adapt to changes in the environment?
  • What is the relationship between change in environment and different animal species?
  • What are the different ways of protecting wildlife?
  • How to protect rare species
  • Discuss the methods of stopping animal extinction
  • What are the different types of pollution?
  • Discuss why sustainability is important in wildlife
  • Discuss ecotourism and its benefits
  • What is the impact of the extinction of bees?
  • How do oil spills in the ocean affect water animals?
  • What are the benefits of organic farming?
  • How does climate change affect animal behavior?

How to choose topic for biology research paper?

Biology research topics are many from organism structure, chemical processes, and interactions. These topics are extensive. You can conduct in-depth research to produce an insightful paper.

It is important that you choose an interesting topic to ensure you deliver value to your readers. The process of selecting a topic can be difficult for many students. The following steps will enable you to choose a topic that will help you produce a well-researched and informative paper

1.     Brainstorm biology research topics

Brainstorm topic ideas to discover interesting biology topics for presentation. Research and create a list of ideas. Look at each topic and answer the following questions

  • What is your opinion about each topic? Is your opinion strong enough to inspire you to write about it?
  • Have you read an article or listened to news about a topic that has made you curious?
  • Do you have the desire to research the information further after reading or hearing about it?
  • What is your personal view on the topic?

After answering the questions you can choose a research topic for your paper. The brainstorming stage can be time-consuming as you analyze one topic after the next.

Do not be in a hurry to make a decision. Allocate enough time for it. You can brainstorm for one or two days before you decide on a topic.

After selecting your topic, wait for a day. Look at your topic again, and if you are fully convinced that it is the best topic for your paper, you can start researching.

2.     Choose an interesting biology research topic

Biology encompasses extensive fields that require in-depth research. Choose a topic that interests you.

An interesting topic will motivate you to research and write your paper faster. Your audience will enjoy reading an informative paper.

3.     Narrow down your topic

Science research topics can be too broad for you to manage unless you narrow them down. Select a narrow topic that you can handle and ensure you can find enough information to support it.

For example, biology is an extensive topic, but you can choose genetic researches biology topics. This is a field in biology that is narrow enough for you to handle.

4.     Write the keywords

Write a list of keywords that describes your topic. This way, you can use these keywords to search for relevant information in the databases. Find broad and narrow terms and key concepts that are useful for your work.

5.     Explore examples about your topic

Look at relevant examples about your topic and get insight into the primary matter. There are many articles with different examples.

It is important that you understand the main message. For example, environmental biology research topics cover areas like

  • Thermoregulation
  • Environmental pollution
  • Hypothermia

Look at each sub-topic and choose the one that interests you. This will allow you to use relevant examples in your paper.

What is the best topic in biology?

There are different areas you can research in biology.  You can find the best topic in biology when you identify the areas that interest you. The following is a list of areas you can consider

1.     Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of tiny organisms such as viruses. Some of the viruses that scientists study cause diseases.

This field is closely linked to a different field called immunology. You can choose to research this topic if you are interested in tiny living things or causes of diseases.

2.     Anatomy

When you choose to write a paper on anatomy, you will focus on tissue structure and organs. You can choose this area in biology if you find researching about the human body tissues interesting

3.     Environmental biology

You may be interested in sharing with your audience different ways of supporting the environment. Environmental biology topics will enable you to find out information on how human beings affect their environment. You will uncover the reaction of organisms to the surroundings

4.     Marine biology

You may want to write about life underwater. The best topics in this field will come from marine biology.

You can write about any organism in water, from bacteria to the whale. You can also write about animals living near water.

5.     Botany

This is the study of plants. You can get the best topics on anything that deals with trees, flowers, and shrubs, among others. You can write about the different properties of plants and how they need sunlight and water to live.

6.     Biology research topics in evolution

All living things are constantly evolving. They can merge, create or delete genes.

You may be interested in this area of biology and how the changes are monitored. You can brainstorm the best topics in this area.

7.     Developmental biology

This area of biology deals with tissue regeneration and the growth of cells.  You can brainstorm topics that excite you in this field.

8.     Epidemiology

This is where scientists study health and how diseases spread among the population. Understanding where diseases originate and how they are transmitted may interest you. This means that you will need to select the best topics in the field of epidemiology.

Biology encompasses large areas, and writing a research paper on biology research topics may seem like a daunting task. How to start writing a biology paper requires you to understand the  writing process .

How to write a biology research paper

Start with planning so you can work fast and save time. A structure will help you write a well-organized research paper quickly.

Structure of a biology research paper

When you structure your research paper well, you will have a good flow of ideas. A structure is a framework that allows you to organize your thoughts logically and present them coherently.

Your readers can follow your line of thought from start to finish. It acts as a  guide  to your writing.

A biology research paper structure allows you to write your main points so that you do not forget them when finalizing your draft. The following are elements that you should include in your biology research paper structure

1.     Title

Creatively craft an interesting title that will attract your audience even before they get to the introduction. You can use an opening statement or a question depending on the biology  research topics .

2.     Abstract

An abstract should present a short summary from the beginning to the end of your paper. Your abstract should reflect the objective of your paper.

Ensure readers understand what your research paper entails. They should also understand the results of your research.

3.     Introduction

The introduction section introduces your topic and describes what your paper will try to achieve. It should start with a hook as the first sentence of the paragraph..

A hook encourages your readers to read your entire paper. The sentences that follow should provide some background information about your topic. The final one or two sentences of the introduction should be your thesis statement.

4.     Thesis statement

A thesis statement is the foundation of your biology research paper. Your thesis should reflect your main arguments.

It guides your writing process, and each point you discuss should be connected to your thesis statement. Make sure your thesis is clear and concise.

5.     Body paragraphs

The body section of your paper is where you provide detailed information about your science research topics. A topic sentence in each paragraph will introduce a sub-point that is connected to your thesis statement.

The sentences that follow will support your point with detailed information, including biology research paper example  and evidence. The final sentence in each paragraph is the concluding sentence.

It finalizes the discussion point and seamlessly transitions the reader to the next point. The body paragraph of your paper should include the following

You will need to explain how you carried out tests in your research. Give the procedure you used. Include the methods of data collection and analysis.

Present results you obtained from your research. Results can be figures or observational results.

You will need to discuss the results you have presented and anything that may have affected them. You can give your opinion regarding the results and if they meet your expectation from your theoretical knowledge.

Cited works

Make sure you properly cite your work and include a reference section on your paper. Follow your professor’s instructions on how to cite your work and the format you need to use.

The most common formats are  APA, MLA, and Chicago . Formatting your work properly will ensure you get higher marks.

6.     Edit and Proofread

After you finish writing your paper, ensure you proofread and edit accordingly. Submitting your work without proofreading it can cause you to lose marks because of grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Check your examples and make sure they are relevant. For example, if you write a biology research paper on genetic researches biology topics, your examples should adequately explain the topic.

Key takeaway

Biology is an interesting science subject. You can find many topics to write about. The challenging part is selecting the best biology research topics.

To get an interesting topic you will need to know “what are the best research topics?”  This way, you can brainstorm different topic ideas and select the one that is interesting to you and your audience.

You will need to ensure the topic is not too wide for you to handle or too narrow for you to find adequate information. To to get  best biology research topics for your research paper,  pay for write my research paper  expert.

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Research Paper Writing Guides

Biology Research Paper Topics

Last updated on: Mar 27, 2024

Diverse Biology Research Paper Topics for Students: A Comprehensive List

By: Barbara P.

25 min read

Reviewed By: Cathy A.

Published on: Mar 26, 2024

Biology Research Paper Topics

Sometimes, picking a cool biology topic for a research paper can be tricky for researchers. There are so many options, and it's not easy to know which one is just right.

It can feel overwhelming because there's a ton of biology stuff out there. 

You might be unsure about which topic will impress your teacher and make your research paper stand out. It's normal to feel a bit stressed about choosing the perfect topic.

But don't worry! This blog is here to help.

We'll guide you by sharing the latest and most exciting topics and ideas for a biology research paper. We'll help you find a topic that interests you and will make your research paper stand out.

Let's get started!

Biology Research Paper Topics

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Biology Research Paper Topics for Students

Choosing the right topic for a biology research paper is very important, and we're here to help you out. In this section, we'll provide you with a list of biology research paper ideas made just for researchers like you. 

9th Grade Biology Research Paper Topics 

  • Cell Structure and Function: Exploring the Basics of Cells and Their Organelles
  • Photosynthesis: Understanding How Plants Convert Sunlight into Energy
  • DNA and Genetic Research: Mendelian Inheritance and Punnett Squares
  • Human Anatomy: Investigating the Skeletal, Muscular, and Nervous Systems
  • Microorganisms and Disease: Examining Bacteria, Viruses, and Fungi
  • Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Roles of Plants and Animals in their Environments
  • Evolutionary Concepts: Natural Selection and Adaptations
  • Environmental Issues: Pollution, Climate Change, and Conservation
  • Biotechnology Basics: Genetic Engineering and Its Applications
  • Human Reproduction: Male and Female Reproductive Systems

Easy Biology Research Topics for High School Students 

  • The Impact of Climate Change on Local Ecosystems
  • Genetic Disorders and Their Inheritance Patterns
  • The Role of Microorganisms in Food Spoilage
  • The Effects of Different Diets on Human Gut Microbiota
  • Biodiversity Conservation in Urban Environments
  • Investigating the Science Behind Vaccines and Immunization
  • Human Evolution and Its Influences on Modern Society
  • The Relationship Between Exercise and Cognitive Function
  • Plant Cell Adaptations to Arid Environments
  • The Influence of Pollution on Aquatic Ecosystems

Interesting Biology Research Topics For Grade 12

  • Gene Editing Technologies: CRISPR-Cas9 and its Applications
  • The Human Microbiome: Impacts on Health and Disease
  • Mendelian Genetics: Inheritance Patterns and Genetic Disorders
  • Evolutionary Biology: Mechanisms of Natural Selection
  • Neurobiology: Understanding Brain Function and Neural Pathways
  • Environmental Impact on Gene Expression: Epigenetics
  • Cell Signaling Pathways: Communication within Cells
  • Biotechnology in Medicine: Applications and Future Prospects
  • Ecological Succession: Changes in Ecosystems Over Time
  • The Carbon Cycle: Importance in Climate Regulation

Good Biology Research Topics for College Students 

  • Evolutionary Psychology: Understanding Human Behavior through Evolution
  • Precision Medicine: Tailoring Treatments Based on Genetic Makeup
  • Immunotherapy in Cancer Treatment: Harnessing the Immune System
  • Ecological Impact of Invasive Species on Local Ecosystems
  • Bioinformatics and Big Data in Genomics Research
  • Regenerative Medicine: Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering
  • Climate Change and its Effects on Marine Biology
  • The Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis: Linking Gut Health to Mental Health
  • CRISPR-Cas9 and Gene Editing: Promises and Challenges
  • Proteomics: Analyzing the Functions and Interactions of Proteins

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Human Biology Research Topics

  • Epigenetics and Human Health: Environmental Influences on Gene Expression
  • Human Evolution: Genetic and Anthropological Perspectives
  • Reproductive Biology: Fertility, Pregnancy, and Reproductive Disorders
  • Cardiovascular Health: Physiology, Diseases, and Treatment Strategies
  • Metabolic Syndrome: Links Between Obesity, Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Aging and Age-Related Diseases: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms
  • Stem Cell Therapies: Applications in Regenerative Medicine
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases: Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's
  • Nutrigenomics: Interactions Between Diet, Genes, and Health
  • Personalized Medicine: Genomic Approaches to Tailored Healthcare

Basic Principles of Cloning Research Paper Topics

  • Epigenetic Aspects of Cloned Organisms
  • Cloning and Genetic Diversity: Implications for Species Conservation
  • Stem Cell Cloning: Potential for Regenerative Medicine
  • Comparative Analysis of Cloning Methods in Different Species
  • Cloning and Reproductive Technologies: Fertility Treatments and Beyond
  • Cloning in Biomedical Research: Models and Contributions
  • Cloning and the Future of Organ Transplants
  • Environmental Impact of Cloning: Ecological Considerations
  • Cloning and Genetic Engineering in Pharmaceuticals
  • Cloning and the Quest for Extinct Species Revival

Climate Change Research Paper Topics 

  • The Role of Human Activities in Climate Change
  • Impact of Climate Change on Global Weather Patterns
  • Rising Sea Levels: Causes and Consequences
  • Climate Change and its Effects on Biodiversity
  • The Relationship Between Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Global Warming
  • Mitigation Strategies for Reducing Carbon Footprints
  • The Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture and Food Security
  • Extreme Weather Events and their Connection to Climate Change
  • Polar Ice Melting: Consequences for Ecosystems and Sea Levels
  • Climate Change and its Influence on Ocean Circulation

CRISPR and Genetic Engineering Research Paper Topics 

  • Off-Target Effects in CRISPR-Cas Editing: Challenges and Solutions
  • CRISPR in Gene Therapy: Advancements and Limitations
  • CRISPR and Synthetic Biology: Engineering Biological Systems
  • CRISPR-Cas Systems in Microbial Biotechnology
  • Regulatory Frameworks for CRISPR Applications in Different Countries
  • CRISPR and Epigenome Editing: Modifying Gene Expression
  • CRISPR and Functional Genomics: Unraveling Gene Functions
  • Precision Medicine: Personalized Therapies Enabled by CRISPR
  • CRISPR and Disease Resistance in Plants and Animals
  • CRISPR-Cas Systems in Prokaryotes: Diversity and Evolutionary Insights

Current Oxytocin Science Research Paper Topics

  • Oxytocin's Influence on Empathy and Emotional Processing
  • Oxytocin and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Current Research Findings
  • The Neurobiology of Oxytocin: Receptors, Signaling Pathways, and Modulation
  • Oxytocin as a Potential Treatment for Mental Health Disorders
  • Oxytocin and Bonding in Animal Models: Comparative Studies
  • Oxytocin and Pain Perception: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications
  • Oxytocin in the Context of Social Decision-Making and Trust Games
  • Oxytocin and Cardiovascular Health: Exploring the Connection
  • The Gut-Brain Axis: Oxytocin's Role in Intestinal Functions and Health
  • Oxytocin and Aging: Implications for Cognitive Function and Well-being

Does Vaccination Have Benefits? Research Paper Topics 

  • Economic Impact of Vaccination on Healthcare Systems
  • Vaccination and Global Health Equity: Challenges and Opportunities
  • Emerging and Re-emerging Diseases: The Role of Vaccination in Prevention
  • Vaccination in the Era of COVID-19: Lessons Learned and Future Strategies
  • Vaccine Hesitancy: Identifying Factors and Developing Effective Communication Strategies
  • The Role of Vaccination in Maternal and Child Health
  • Vaccination and Antibiotic Resistance: A Holistic Approach to Disease Prevention
  • Immunization in High-Risk Populations: Tailoring Strategies for Vulnerable Communities
  • Vaccine Diplomacy: International Collaboration in Disease Prevention
  • Advances in Vaccine Technology: RNA Vaccines and Beyond

Endangered Species Recovery Research Paper Topics

  • Human-Wildlife Conflict Resolution: Enhancing Coexistence for Endangered Species
  • Conservation Policies and Legislation: Assessing Effectiveness in Species Recovery
  • Technology in Conservation: Drones, Satellites, and their Applications for Endangered Species Monitoring
  • Community Engagement in Conservation: Building Support for Endangered Species Recovery
  • Ecotourism and Conservation: Balancing Economic Interests with Wildlife Protection
  • Assessing the Effectiveness of Protected Areas in Endangered Species Recovery
  • Behavioral Ecology of Endangered Species: Understanding Patterns for Conservation
  • Disease Management in Endangered Species: Risks and Strategies
  • The Role of Citizen Science in Monitoring and Protecting Endangered Species
  • Cross-Border Collaboration in Endangered Species Recovery: Challenges and Opportunities

Hormonal Control of Reproductive System Research Paper Topics 

  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH): Central Regulator of Reproductive Hormones
  • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Their Roles in Ovarian and Testicular Function
  • Estrogen and Progesterone: Hormonal Regulation of the Female Reproductive System
  • Testosterone: Key Player in Male Reproductive Physiology
  • Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis: Coordinated Control of Reproductive Hormones
  • Hormonal Changes during the Menstrual Cycle: Implications for Fertility
  • Thyroid Hormones and Reproduction: Interactions and Impact
  • Prolactin: Role in Reproduction and Lactation
  • Kisspeptin: Emerging Regulator of Reproductive Hormones
  • Hormonal Control of Spermatogenesis: Insights into Male Fertility

Research Paper Topics About Human Hormones

  • Insulin and Glucagon: Hormonal Control of Blood Sugar Levels
  • Hormones and Sleep: Understanding the Circadian Rhythms
  • Reproductive Hormones in Men and Women: Beyond Fertility
  • Hormonal Influences on Mood and Behavior: Neuroendocrinology
  • Oxytocin: The "Love Hormone" and Social Bonding
  • Hormonal Regulation of Bone Health: Osteoporosis and Beyond
  • Hormones and Cardiovascular Health: Implications for Heart Disease
  • Melatonin: Circadian Rhythms and Sleep-Wake Cycles
  • Endocrine Disruptors: Environmental Impact on Hormonal Balance
  • Hormones and the Immune System: Interactions and Immunomodulation

Research Paper Topics About Immune System 

  • Immunotherapy in Cancer Treatment: Current Advances and Future Directions
  • Autoimmune Diseases: Unraveling Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies
  • Role of Gut Microbiota in Immune System Regulation
  • Vaccines and Immunization: Advancements and Global Health Impacts
  • Innate Immune System: Key Players and Responses to Pathogens
  • Adaptive Immune System: Understanding Antigen Recognition and Memory
  • Immunodeficiency Disorders: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
  • Inflammatory Responses in Autoimmune Diseases: Targeting Therapeutic Interventions
  • Cross-Talk Between the Immune System and the Nervous System
  • Immunosenescence: Aging and Changes in Immune Function

Research Paper Topics About Animal Habitats Conservation

  • Conservation of Migratory Species: Challenges and International Collaboration
  • Protected Areas and Their Role in Preserving Animal Habitats
  • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Balancing Conservation and Human Needs
  • Climate Change and Animal Habitats: Adaptive Management Strategies
  • Conservation of Endangered Ecosystems: Lessons from Success Stories
  • Wetland Conservation: Importance for Waterfowl and Biodiversity
  • The Role of Connectivity in Habitat Conservation: Corridors and Networks
  • Conservation of Grasslands and Savannas: Sustaining Open Habitats
  • Alpine Ecosystem Conservation: Challenges at High Altitudes
  • Tropical Rainforest Conservation: Addressing Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss

Research Paper Topics About Biology Behind The Bipolar Disorder

  • Inflammatory Markers and Immune Dysregulation in Bipolar Disorder
  • Neuroplasticity and Bipolar Disorder: Implications for Treatment
  • Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder: Energy Metabolism Perspectives
  • Neuroendocrine Aberrations in Bipolar Disorder: Cortisol and Stress Response
  • Sleep Disturbances and Circadian Disruptions in Bipolar Disorder
  • Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Defense in Bipolar Disorder
  • Hormonal Influences on Bipolar Disorder: Estrogen and Testosterone
  • Gut-Brain Axis and Bipolar Disorder: Role of the Microbiome
  • Pharmacogenomics of Bipolar Medications: Personalized Approaches
  • Animal Models in Bipolar Disorder Research: Bridging the Biological Gap

Research Paper Topics About Can Abortion Be Safe? 

  • Comparative Analysis of Abortion Safety: Surgical vs. Medical Methods
  • Access to Safe Abortion Services: Global Disparities and Challenges
  • Impact of Legal Restrictions on Abortion Safety: A Public Health Perspective
  • Telemedicine and Abortion: Safety, Accessibility, and Regulatory Considerations
  • Psychological Well-being After Abortion: Longitudinal Studies and Meta-Analyses
  • Quality of Care in Abortion Services: Patient Experiences and Healthcare Provider Perspectives
  • Innovations in Abortion Techniques: Advancing Safety and Efficacy
  • Post-Abortion Care: Addressing Complications and Ensuring Patient Support
  • Public Health Interventions to Improve Abortion Safety: Lessons from Successful Programs
  • Abortion in Humanitarian Crises: Ensuring Safe Services in Challenging Environments

Cell Biology Research Topics 

  • Cellular Senescence: Aging at the Cellular Level
  • Cytoskeleton Dynamics: Microtubules, Microfilaments, and Intermediate Filaments
  • Apoptosis and Programmed Cell Death: Molecular Mechanisms
  • Cellular Reprogramming and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
  • Human DNA Replication and Repair Mechanisms in Cell Biology
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules: Functions in Development and Disease
  • Ion Channels and Membrane Transport in Cell Physiology
  • Stem Cell Niche: Microenvironment Regulation and Stem Cell Fate
  • Cell Differentiation: Molecular Signals and Transcriptional Control
  • Organelle Biogenesis and Dynamics in Cellular Function

Marine Biology Research Paper Topics 

  • Coral Reef Ecology: Threats, Conservation, and Restoration
  • Marine Biodiversity: Assessing Patterns and Drivers
  • Ocean Acidification: Impacts on Marine Life and Ecosystems
  • Deep-Sea Bioluminescence: Adaptations and Ecological Significance
  • Marine Mammal Communication: Vocalizations and Social Behaviors
  • Plastic Pollution in Oceans: Effects on Marine Life and Mitigation Strategies
  • Marine Microorganisms: Roles in Biogeochemical Cycling and Climate Regulation
  • Fisheries Management: Sustainable Practices and Overfishing Concerns
  • Marine Protected Areas: Effectiveness and Challenges in Conservation
  • Seagrass Ecology: Importance in Coastal Ecosystems and Restoration Efforts

Research Paper Topics for Environmental Psychology

  • Impact of Urban Design on Human Well-being: A Psychological Perspective
  • Nature-Based Therapies: The Psychological Benefits of Green Spaces
  • Environmental Stressors in Urban Environments: Coping Mechanisms and Interventions
  • Psychological Effects of Climate Change: Understanding and Mitigating Anxiety
  • Pro-environmental Behavior: Factors Influencing Sustainable Practices
  • Restorative Environments: Exploring the Role of Nature in Stress Recovery
  • The Influence of Environmental Aesthetics on Emotional Well-being
  • Connection to Nature and its Relationship to Mental Health
  • Environmental Justice: Psychosocial Impacts of Unequal Environmental Exposures
  • Place Attachment and Identity: How People Form Bonds with their Environment

Evolutionary Biology Research Paper Topics 

  • Evolutionary Medicine: Understanding Human Health in an Evolutionary Context
  • Evolutionary Psychology: Behavioral Adaptations and Human Evolution
  • Evolutionary Conservation Biology: Balancing Conservation and Evolutionary Processes
  • Evolutionary Genetics: Genetic Variation, Selection, and Adaptation
  • Paleontology and Evolution: Fossil Record and Insights into Ancient Life Forms
  • Evolution of Social Behavior: Cooperation, Altruism, and Kin Selection
  • Evolutionary Insights into Aging and Senescence
  • Evolution of Sex: Theories and Mechanisms
  • Phylogeography: Evolutionary History and Geographic Distribution of Species
  • Evolutionary Perspectives on Human Origins and Migration Patterns

Research Paper Topics About How Addictive Substances Affect Our Genes? 

  • Epigenetic Modifications Induced by Substance Abuse: Unraveling the Molecular Mechanisms
  • Impact of Addictive Substances on DNA Methylation Patterns
  • Genetic Vulnerability to Substance Addiction: Identifying Risk Factors
  • Neurotransmitter Receptor Gene Expression and Substance Dependence
  • Epigenetic Changes in Offspring Due to Parental Substance Use
  • Substance Abuse and DNA Repair Mechanisms: Implications for Genomic Stability
  • Epigenetic Regulation of Reward Pathways in the Brain: Role in Addiction
  • Long-Term Effects of Addictive Substances on Gene Expression
  • Pharmacogenomics of Addiction Treatment: Personalized Approaches
  • Epigenetic Biomarkers of Substance Addiction: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Potential

Human Cloning Biology Topics 

  • Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT) in Human Cloning: Techniques and Applications
  • Ethics of Human Cloning: Considerations and Controversies
  • Genetic and Epigenetic Consequences of Cloning: Insights from Animal Models
  • Cloning for Reproductive Purposes: Challenges and Ethical Implications
  • Therapeutic Cloning: Potential Applications in Regenerative Medicine
  • Legal Frameworks and Regulations Surrounding Human Cloning
  • Mitochondrial Replacement Techniques: Addressing Genetic Disorders through Cloning
  • Cloning and Genetic Diversity: Evaluating the Impact on Population Genetics
  • Cloned Organisms and Aging: Exploring Telomere Dynamics and Longevity
  • Challenges in Cloning Human Organs for Transplantation

Research Paper Topics on Immune System And Stress

  • Stress and the Immune System: Interactions and Bidirectional Influences
  • Psychoneuroimmunology: Understanding the Connection between Stress, Brain, and Immunity
  • Chronic Stress and Inflammation: Implications for Health and Disease
  • Acute Stress Responses and Their Immediate Impact on Immune Function
  • Stress-Induced Changes in Immune Cell Distribution and Activity
  • Neuroendocrine Regulation of Immune Responses during Stress
  • Stress and Autoimmune Diseases: Unraveling the Complex Relationship
  • Impact of Early Life Stress on Immune System Development
  • Coping Mechanisms and Stress Reduction Interventions: Effects on Immune Function
  • Psychological Stress and Susceptibility to Viral Infections

Research Paper Topics for Infectious Diseases

  • Epidemiology of Respiratory Viruses: Influenza, COVID-19, and Beyond
  • Bacterial Pathogenesis: Mechanisms of Infection and Host Responses
  • Waterborne Diseases: Contaminated Water Sources and Public Health Risks
  • Neglected Tropical Diseases: Challenges in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Eradication
  • Fungal Infections: Rising Incidence and Novel Therapeutic Approaches
  • Surveillance and Control of Nosocomial Infections in Healthcare Settings
  • Viral Hepatitis: Global Burden, Prevention, and Treatment Strategies
  • Tuberculosis: Advances in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Drug Development
  • Helminthic Infections: Parasitic Worms and their Impact on Human Health
  • Epidemiology of Sexually Transmitted Infections: Trends and Challenges

Research Paper Topics for Molecular Biology

  • Protein Folding and Misfolding: Implications in Diseases
  • DNA Repair Mechanisms: Maintaining Genomic Integrity
  • Molecular Basis of Cancer: Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressors, and Signaling Pathways
  • Telomeres and Telomerase: Maintaining Chromosomal Integrity
  • Synthetic Biology: Engineering Biological Systems for Practical Applications
  • Molecular Mechanisms of Apoptosis: Programmed Cell Death
  • Signal Transduction Pathways: Molecular Communication within Cells
  • Molecular Biology of Aging: Understanding the Cellular Aging Process
  • Gene Expression Profiling: Techniques and Applications in Molecular Biology
  • Structural Biology: Revealing the Three-Dimensional Architecture of Biomolecules

Research Paper Topics for Organ Transplantation

  • Immune Responses to Transplanted Organs: Mechanisms and Alloreactivity
  • Organ Preservation Techniques: Advances and Challenges in Transplantation
  • Organ Transplantation and Xenotransplantation: Current Status and Future Prospects
  • Donor-Recipient Matching in Organ Transplantation: Immunological Considerations
  • Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Transplanted Organs: Molecular Mechanisms and Prevention
  • Organ Allocation and Distribution: Ethical Dilemmas and Policy Considerations
  • Regenerative Medicine Approaches in Organ Transplantation: Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells
  • Living Organ Donation: Medical, Ethical, and Psychosocial Implications
  • Immunomodulatory Therapies in Organ Transplantation: Impact on Graft Survival
  • Biomarkers in Transplantation: Monitoring and Predicting Allograft Function

Research Paper Topics for Plant Pathology

  • Fungal Plant Pathogens: Identification, Classification, and Control
  • Bacterial Plant Pathogens: Mechanisms of Infection and Disease Management
  • Viral Diseases in Plants: Molecular Biology and Strategies for Control
  • Plant Immunity and Defense Mechanisms Against Pathogens
  • Phytophthora infestans and Late Blight: History, Impact, and Management
  • Epidemiology of Plant Diseases: Understanding Spread and Impact
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions: Molecular Dialogue in Plant-Pathogen Relationships
  • Integrated Pest Management in Agriculture: Strategies for Sustainable Disease Control
  • Genomic Approaches in Plant Pathology: Unraveling the Molecular Basis of Resistance
  • Emerging Plant Diseases: Identification, Characterization, and Preparedness

Plant Biology Research Topics

  • Photosynthesis: Understanding Mechanisms and Enhancing Efficiency
  • Plant Hormones: Roles in Growth, Development, and Response to Stress
  • Disease Resistance in Plants: Molecular Mechanisms and Genetic Engineering
  • Plant-Microbe Interactions: Symbiosis and Pathogenesis
  • Seed Germination: Environmental Cues and Molecular Regulation
  • Genetic Diversity in Crop Plants: Conservation and Utilization
  • Climate Change and Plant Adaptations: Implications for Agriculture
  • Phytoremediation: Plants as Tools for Environmental Cleanup
  • Plant Epigenetics: Epigenetic Modifications and Gene Regulation
  • Plant Physiology Under Abiotic Stress: Drought, Salinity, and Temperature

Research Paper Topics for Prions 

  • Prion Diseases: Overview, Classification, and Epidemiology
  • Prion Protein Structure: Insights into Misfolding and Aggregation
  • Cellular Prion Protein (PrPC) Function and Implications in Health
  • Prion Strains: Diversity, Characteristics, and Disease Variability
  • Prion Transmission: Routes, Mechanisms, and Zoonotic Potential
  • Neurodegenerative Effects of Prions: Impact on Brain Function
  • Prion Diseases in Humans: Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease and Variant CJD
  • Prion Diseases in Animals: Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and Scrapie
  • Prion Detection Methods: Advances and Challenges in Diagnosis
  • Prion Strain Adaptation and Evolution: Molecular Mechanisms

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Research Paper Topics for Social Behavior in Animals

  • Altruism in Social Animals: Evolutionary Explanations and Adaptive Benefits
  • Communication Strategies in Social Insects: Chemical, Visual, and Acoustic Signals
  • Dominance Hierarchies in Animal Societies: Mechanisms and Functions
  • Social Learning in Animals: Observational Learning and Cultural Transmission
  • Mate Choice and Sexual Selection: Social Dynamics in Animal Courtship
  • Cooperative Breeding in Social Birds and Mammals: Mechanisms and Benefits
  • Agonistic Behavior in Social Groups: Conflict Resolution and Communication
  • Parental Care in Social Animals: Roles, Strategies, and Cooperation
  • Territoriality in Animal Societies: Defense and Resource Management
  • Group Dynamics in Primates: Social Structure and Hierarchy

Research Paper Topics for Stem Cells

  • Pluripotent Stem Cells: Induction, Differentiation, and Applications
  • Adult Stem Cells: Niches, Identification, and Regenerative Potential
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells: Biology and Clinical Applications in Blood Disorders
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Therapeutic Potential in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs): Reprogramming and Applications
  • Neural Stem Cells: Development, Function, and Neuroregeneration
  • Cancer Stem Cells: Origin, Identification, and Targeted Therapies
  • Stem Cell-Based Therapies for Cardiovascular Regeneration
  • Ethical Considerations in Stem Cell Research: Cloning, Genome Editing, and Beyond
  • Stem Cells in Ophthalmology: Vision Restoration and Retinal Diseases

Biological Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • Neurotransmitters and Behavior: Examining the Role of Dopamine, Serotonin, and Acetylcholine
  • Neuroplasticity: Implications for Learning, Memory, and Brain Rehabilitation
  • Brain Imaging Techniques: Advances in Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Neuroimaging
  • Hormones and Behavior: Exploring the Influence of Endocrine System on Psychological Processes
  • Genetics and Mental Health: Investigating the Role of Genetic Factors in Psychiatric Disorders
  • Neurobiology of Stress: Impact on Cognitive Function and Emotional Well-being
  • Sleep and Brain Function: Understanding the Relationship between Sleep and Mental Health
  • Neurological Basis of Addiction: Mechanisms of Substance Abuse and Dependence
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Exploring the Brain Basis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Emotion and the Brain: Neural Substrates of Emotional Processing

Controversial Biology Topics Research Paper

  • Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies: Ethical Considerations
  • Cloning of Animals and Humans: Scientific Advancements and Moral Dilemmas
  • Gene Editing Technologies (e.g., CRISPR): Potential and Ethical Concerns
  • Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Moral and Religious Perspectives
  • Human Enhancement Technologies: Biological and Ethical Implications
  • Vaccination Controversies: Public Health, Safety, and Individual Rights
  • Evolution vs. Creationism: Teaching Perspectives in Schools
  • Animal Testing: Ethical Considerations in Scientific Research
  • Endangered Species Conservation: Balancing Preservation and Human Needs
  • Climate Change Skepticism: Scientific Consensus and Public Perception

How to Choose a Biology Research Topic? 

Choosing a research paper topic can be an exciting but challenging task. Here's a guide on how to choose biology research topics:

  • Identify Your Interests: Consider what aspects of biology interest you the most. 

Whether it's genetics, ecology, physiology, or any specific field, choosing a topic aligned with your interests makes the research process more engaging.

  • Explore Current Trends: Stay updated on current trends and breakthroughs in biology. 

Investigate recent publications, journals, and news to find emerging topics that pique your curiosity.

  • Consider the Scope: Determine the scope of your research. 

Choose a topic that is neither too broad nor too narrow. It should be specific enough to explore in-depth but broad enough to find relevant literature and resources.

  • Consult with Mentors or Instructors: Seek advice from mentors, instructors, or research advisors.

They can provide insights into feasible and interesting research areas, as well as guidance on available resources.

  • Think About Real-World Applications: Explore topics with real-world applications. 

Consider how the research can contribute to solving practical problems or advancing technologies.

  • Consider Ethical Implications: Be mindful of ethical considerations.

Ensure that your research topic aligns with ethical standards and guidelines in the field of biology.

In conclusion, choosing a biology research topic is a crucial step in your academic journey. A well-chosen topic not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also enhances your understanding of biology.

But if you feel overwhelmed choosing a topic or writing a research paper about any topic, let SharkPapers.com assist you with professional services.

Our experts will help you write your paper as well as edit and proofread it for you! 

So, don’t waste time! Hire an expert paper writing service online today! 

Barbara P.

Barbara has a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university and extensive experience working in the medical field. With her practical experience conducting research on various health issues, she is skilled in writing innovative papers on healthcare. Her many works have been published in multiple publications.

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100 Fascinating Biology Research Paper Topics for Students

15 January, 2021

11 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Biology research is a serious analytical task that usually contains scientific findings, debatable questions, and detailed explanations. Students who are studying biology may get an assignment to find some interesting biological topics to do research for essays, term papers, and scientific reports.

Biology Research Paper Topics

It is quite a challenging and overwhelming task that takes pretty much time and effort. If your topic is not relevant, you won’t be able to include a scientific argument and proceed with further discussion. In this article, you will discover some topics for biology projects that will help you gain attention in a rapidly evolving field like this.

How to Choose Topic for Biology Research Paper?

Well, you’ve been researching for a while now, and you are ready to focus on a particular topic. Professors often ask students to write about something that has not been researched for a hundred times. Among all topics in biology, you should choose the one you are actually interested in. There are certain tips you need to follow before opting for your topic:

  • Narrow down the subject matter. Before choosing an interesting biology topic for your research paper, you first need to identify a particular aspect of biology that interests you.
  • Examine the existing research papers. You should conduct thorough research on the existing scholarly articles in order to gain a better idea about recent trends in the particular sphere of Biology.
  • Brainstorm a particular area . By brainstorming ideas and thoughts, you may find the ideal research topic for biology to focus on.
  • Conduct a preliminary research . By conducting preliminary research, you will check the amount of materials covering the selected topic. If you fail to find any information, you should choose another topic.
  • Have a look at relevant examples . Checking credible examples is important for biology topics selection. This way, you will learn how to structure your research paper and go about the selected topic.

History of Biology

Do you consider covering the history of Biology in your research? Then, you may refer to the history of all life forms on the planet and explore how they have been researched over time. Here are some topics to dwell on:

  • How archeology influences animal biology?
  • The latest explanation of Darwin’s theory in modern science
  • Edward Jenner and his contribution to the fight against epidemics
  • The dead branches of evolution
  • Exploring the importance of evolution factors
  • Study of modern theories related to the origins of humankind
  • The contribution of Antonie van Leeuwenhoek to the science of Biology
  • The most significant milestones in the development of behavioral mechanisms in the late XIX – early XX centuries
  • Can we trust the Natural Selection Theory? Does it work in the human world?
  • The development of genetics over the last century

Immune System Biology Research Topics

The immune system, as our main defense against different diseases and infections, is one of the most important topics for discussion in Biology. Take a look at the following topic examples:

  • The resistance capacity of the human immune system
  • Why is vaccination important and what are its benefits?
  • Problems caused by immunotherapy
  • Effects of probiotics on  the prevention of infections
  • How poor immunity leads to fatal diseases
  • The functions of immune system agents
  • The resistance of the human immune system
  • Medical conditions caused by immune system malfunction
  • How does insomnia influence the human immune system?
  • Molecular biology of Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Molecular Biology Topics

Are you looking for a molecular biology issue to cover in your research paper? The following topics represent the latest research on this subject matter.

  • The effective ways and tools for effective lifetime prolongation
  • The role of genetically modified crops for the national economy
  • Molecular biology research in the United States
  • Can Ebola be viewed as a biological weapon?
  • The effect on antibiotics on cells
  • Challenges caused by diseases to molecular biology
  • Does molecular biological research of rare genetic disorders provide us with the keys to understanding cancer and other diseases?
  • What are the biological reasons behind food intolerances?
  • Production of growth hormone and insulin in genetic engineering
  • Molecular chaperones and their role in polypeptides folding

Genetic Researches Biology Topics

Research on genetic concepts can reveal intriguing insights into human nature and potential. The variety of options here is unlimited. Some of them include the following:

  • How to solve the ethical dilemma of human cloning?
  • The recent implementation of genetic disorders treatment
  • Modern technology in  DNA analysis
  • The process of DNA modification on smoking females
  • Methods of the sequencing of nucleotide sequences of DNA
  • DNA Modifications and its Effects on Humans
  • Genetics of chromosomal diseases related to structural chromosome rearrangements
  • Genetics behind human physical features
  • DNA diagnosis of hereditary and infectious diseases
  • Can DNA influence the process of aging?

Neurobiology Research Topics

The human brain is intriguing, as there are always some new things to learn. The following topics have a great study potential:

  • The improvement of brain activities with the most advanced neurobiology aids
  • The innovative technologies in neurobiology
  • Does gut bacteria lead to depression?
  • Genetic defects that cause schizophrenia
  • The molecular and gene regulatory signature of a neuron
  • The influence of music on cognitive processes in a human brain
  • What are the negative consequences associated with neurosurgery?
  • Formation of thinking, speech, and consciousness of an average person
  • Neurobiological Explanation of Sleep
  • The role of neuroscience in the development of robotic technologies

Plant Research Topics

Are you interested in writing a paper about plants? Here are some of the latest ideas in botany to get inspiration by: 

  • How does climate change affect biodiversity in Australia?
  • The evolutionary factors that affect plant growth
  • A comparative analysis of invasive plants in New Zealand
  • Friction in the plant world
  • How modern technology can facilitate plant disease treatment
  • Disease resistance mechanism in plants
  • An extensive research on plant-associated microbes and available genomic tools
  • Feature and functions of photosynthesis
  • Impact of electric current on plant cells
  • Plant cells plastids structure and function

Ecological Subjects

Ecology-concerning subjects are becoming more and more popular as society has to deal with the results of human behavior all the time. In your biology research study, you can offer some new solutions to ecological problems in order to turn the world into a better place. Let’s review some popular topic examples:

  • Exploring the relevance of chemical ecology in the context of Oceania
  • The impact of Ecological factors on animal behavior
  • Ways animals and plants adapt to fast-changing environment
  • Explore the ecological footprint of cotton production
  • The ecological approach to sustainable marine research
  • Why does biodiversity need to be conserved?
  • Consequences of building the Hetch Hetchy valley dam
  • What causes toxic algae bloom?
  • Indoor air pollution: causes and risks
  • The devastating impact of deforestation in Amazon forests

If you are interested in the animal world , feel free to write about it in your research paper. By conducting a deep analysis of one phenomenon or species, you may shed light on the growing problems. Some of the burning topics to consider include the following:

  • How the mechanism of camouflage is used by sea animals?
  • How does veganism affect meat production?
  • How do humans influence the diversity of animal species?
  • The mechanism of resistance in animals
  • Domestication: can foxes become domestic animals?
  • Possibility of homosexual connections in the world of animals
  • The future of the planet through the prism of Species Extinction
  • Can beauty products testing on animals be viewed as ethical?
  • Evolutionary connections between moths and butterflies
  • The importance of home diet for dogs

Behavior and Hormones

You can also share ideas on how human hormones influence their mood and well-being. A short list of topic samples covers the following: 

  • How hormones affect women’s behavior during pregnancy
  • Psychopathic Disorders: Are They Hormone-Specific?
  • The hormones disorder and constant depression
  • How does your brain control your behavior?
  • The three main psychopathic disorders influenced by hormones
  • Analyze the features of oxytocin that turn this hormone into a love drug
  • How to generate growth hormone by means of genetic engineering methods?
  • Biologic basis of the bipolar disorder
  • The influence of diabetes and its potential threats
  • The role of hormones in women’s health

Easy Biology Research Topics

If you don’t know what to write about in your biology research paper, you can use one of the most common topics. Although they have been widely covered by scientists, it doesn’t mean they are not suitable for further research. These topic ideas might come in handy:

  • How to prevent the risks related to global warming?
  • The future prospects of molecular biology in Europe
  • Is growing organs for transplantation in laboratories ethical?
  • How is melatonin used for therapy purposes?
  • What is the value of sustainability in Biology?
  • Explore the effects of marijuana on the human brain. Should the use of marijuana become legal?
  • Accuracy of DNA testing in the modern medical environment
  • Different ecological pyramids and the ratio of organisms at each of their levels
  • The positive and negative aspects of transgenic crops
  • Various means of wildlife protection

biology research topics

Biology research is one of the most complicated academic assignments that needs to be written according to strict requirements. While checking the variety of biology research topics, you should be ready to deal with certain problems, such as a poor understanding of the subject matter, its value for society, etc. Try to select a brief and concise topic that can be supported with relevant and up-to-date evidence. Make sure to conduct thorough research by using all the available tools and methods you know. Remember that the importance and timely revelation of the topic increases your chances to get an excellent grade eventually.

If you are still unsure on whether you can cope with your task – you are in the right place to get help. Our essay writers know the perfect answer to the question “Who can write my paper?”

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Ethical Research Paper Topics

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

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Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

Undergraduate Research

Participating in research as an undergraduate can be a very rewarding experience. Approximately 90% of Biology majors pursue an independent research project at some point during their undergraduate careers; some also pursue honors, and some do not.

Jump to:  How to get started In-department research Out-of-department research Questions about enrolling

How to Get Started

Biology majors in particular have a plethora of research opportunities in the Biology Department, departments in the Medical School, and labs at Hopkins Marine Station. To get started in searching for a potential lab, these are some great resources to consider:  

  • Biology Department Faculty : Browse each faculty member's areas of research
  • Research Areas : Search for a faculty member based on a particular area of interest within the field of Biology
  • Community Academic Profiles : This site allows you to search for faculty labs in the Stanford School of Medicine. You can search by name, department, or even keyword. This is a useful tool if you know generally what area of research you would like to pursue, but are unsure of a specific lab that does what interests you.

Once you have narrowed down 3-5 of your top choices, use the following steps as a general guide:

Spend time thoroughly looking over the lab's website. This will give a lot of information including how large the lab is, what types of projects are underway, and how many and what kinds of publications are getting done.

Read through a few publications to familiarize yourself with the research. This will give you something to talk about when you set up a meeting with the faculty member, and it also shows a genuine interest in their work.

Email the faculty member asking for an appointment. Be sure to mention that you have looked through their website and publications. This shows that you have made an effort and have an interest in them specifically. Be prepared to discuss your specific research interests.

Send a generic email simply asking if there are spaces in their lab. This is not compelling, and you may not even get a response.

Assume that the faculty member knows who you are. Briefly introduce yourself as a Biology major interested in pursuing ____.

Remember: politeness and persistence are important!

In-Department Research (BIO 199)

Once you have found and been accepted into a lab, you are strongly encouraged to enroll in academic credit for your work in the lab. The general formula for determining units is: 1 unit=3 hours of work per week.

Working in a Lab in Biology

Students doing research in Biology Department labs can study anything from cell biology, genetics, and plants to ecology, conservation, and marine biology. To get academic credit for Biology Department research (which can also count toward Biology major electives and Biology Honors requirements), students should enroll in their faculty member's section of BIO 199.

Be sure to discuss the number of units and grading options ahead of time with your faculty research advisor. No petition is required to enroll in BIO 199, and students in any major are welcome to enroll provided they have permission from the faculty member.

Out-of-Department Research (BIO 199X)

Working in a lab outside of biology.

Many students find research opportunities in labs outside the Biology Department.  BIO 199X is available for declared Biology majors only.  If you are not a Biology major, consider enrolling under your PI's home department subject code, e.g. MED 199. Once you declare the major, you will submit a BIO 199X petition and start enrolling under that subject code.

You must submit your BIO 199X petition within one quarter of declaring the Biology major in order to receive credit toward your major electives . 

For Honors, only your BIO 199/X units count from your junior and senior years.

Students only need to petition ONCE to work with the same sponsor. If you switch labs, you will be required to submit a new petition.

Appropriate Research Projects

The research field is expected to encompass biological concepts and processes. Projects should be empirical or theoretical biological research, consisting of independent and original scientific work by the student. Applied clinical, environmental, or technological studies may be appropriate in cases where there is a major analytical, experimental or observational component to the study, involving independent conceptual, field or laboratory work by the student. Simply collecting data or samples from human subjects or interviewees, collating data, doing repetitive technical work, or doing statistical analysis is not sufficient for Bio 199X credit. Students should discuss the nature of their projects with their Departmental advisors prior to petitioning for approval, if there is any doubt about appropriateness.

Research Sponsors

Sponsors should be Academic Council members (assistant, associate, or full professors) if possible. If you are not sure if your research sponsor is an Academic Council member, search on Stanford Who in the "Search in Stanford view." If your sponsor is not an Academic Council member you will need to find a faculty member in the Department of Biology to serve as a co-sponsor of your research. This can be your faculty advisor if appropriate.

Autumn 2023 – October 4, 2023, 3:00 pm Winter 2024 – January 17, 2024, 3:00 pm Spring 2024 – April 10, 2024, 3:00 pm

Petition Procedure

To petition for BIO 199X credit , students must submit the following items to Gilbert 118 or as one PDF to Patricia Ayala Macias at ayalamac [at] stanford.edu (ayalamac[at]stanford[dot]edu) :

Fill out the  Petition and Research Sponsorship Form  (Fillable)

Your research proposal should be at least 2-3 pages in length (double spaced, not including references and figures) and should be organized as described below using the following headings. Also please include your Sponsor's name and department at the top.

Title of Research Project

Objective of research . Briefly and clearly state the question that your research is designed to address. Explain the specific aims of the research.

Background and Significance . Using appropriate background information which is appropriately referenced, indicate the significance of your research.

Experimental design . Describe the project design you will use to carry out your research including methods and materials. Indicate how these techniques will allow you to address your research question. Note the following: 1) research involving vertebrate animals requires that your sponsor have an approved Animal Use Protocol on file with the University Panel on Laboratory Animal Care; 2) work with radioactive substances requires certification in the University’s radiation safety course; 3) work with pathogenic organisms requires special training and precautions 4) work with human material requires that you complete the Human Subjects Training. If any of these apply, describe them in your proposal.

Possible results . Describe the expected outcome of your research, indicating how the data collected will be used to draw conclusions regarding the research question. Throughout your proposal, be specific about your own work: do not simply state the goals of the lab in which you are working. Stress the biological concepts you are using and your understanding of the methodology. The proposal should clearly show some level of independence in your research, the feasibility of the project, and an understanding of the basic biology involved. If this is your first Quarter of Bio 199X and you do not yet have your own project, but are helping someone else in the lab on their project while learning concepts and methods, then describe the project that you are working on instead.

Print or email the  sponsor information sheet  and give it to your sponsor for their reference.

Submit your Petition Form and Research Description to both your PI and major advisor well ahead of the submission deadline! Both readers will need time to review your proposal and provide feedback for revisions.

Questions about enrolling?

If you're unsure if you should enroll in BIO 199, BIO 199X, or something else (e.g. MED 199), use this decision tree to make your decision. Still unsure?  ayalamac [at] stanford.edu (subject: BIO%20199X%20Enrollment) (Contact the student services office) .  

Decision tree to aid in enrolling in research units

200 Distinctive Biology Research Topics to Write a Killer Paper

blog image

Biology research topics are crucial for students as they deepen their understanding of the natural world and its intricate processes.

Engaging with these topics fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and scientific literacy.

In today’s post  our writers  have compiled a list of biology research paper topics that will help students gain access to valuable insights, up-to-date information, assisting their excellence in their academic pursuits.

This content serves as a reliable source for students to explore diverse topics and stay informed on the latest developments in the field of biology.

After reading this exciting blog post, you’ll know what to expect from a good  paper writing service . So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Unique Biology Research Topics for You to Score High

Writing a research paper  on biology topics can be exciting if you know how to pick the right subject.

Stay up to date with what established biologists are studying and ensure your topic is something you can easily research and back up your ideas with.

Here’s a list of some of the most remarkable topics for an excellent college paper.

Top Biology Research Topics

  • Can drug addiction be regarded as a disease?
  • Discussing Ebola as a biological weapon.
  • How does human memory work?
  • Can we consider immortality a reality?
  • Plant diseases and their causes.
  • Analyzing if  dormant microbes trigger Alzheimer’s ? 
  • The significance of molecular biology in cancer treatment.
  • The difference between bisexuality and homosexuality in animal species.
  • How are obesity and genetics connected?
  • Understanding stem cell research.
  • How are hormones influencing the human body?
  • The most beneficial biological development in history.
  • Basic principles of human cloning.
  • Maintaining the ecosystem and its importance.
  • How are organisms adapting to challenging situations?
  • Understanding the hierarchical structure of single-celled organisms?
  • The primary function of multicellular organisms.
  • Discuss how a fossil supports the theory of evolution.
  • Understanding different cell reproduction types.
  • Reasons why enzymes are essential.
  • Difference between eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
  • The process of photosynthesis.
  • How does human metabolism work?
  • The difference between mitosis and meiosis.
  • Probability of gene inheritance.
  • Understanding the DNA Structure.
  • How is PCR used?
  • The mechanism of cloning.
  • Discussing the carbon cycle mechanisms.
  • Effects of humans on biodiversity.
  • Main factors regulating the dynamics of a population.
  • The modern relatives of dinosaurs.
  • Strategies organisms use for acquiring nutrition.
  • The tree of life.
  • Understanding the concept of natural selection.

As time progresses, biologists are increasingly exploring  animal research topics  in addition to human studies. These subjects encompass investigations into animal evolution, existence, and survival. 

By delving into these areas, researchers comprehensively understand the intricate relationships between various species and their environments, ultimately enhancing our knowledge of the natural world.

Unique Biology Research Topics

Every day, the world of science uncovers new discoveries, with dedicated researchers continuously embarking on medical expeditions.

These efforts have led to the identification of numerous  autism research topics , significantly enhancing our understanding of this complex condition.

As a result, these findings have greatly benefited the field of  special education research , paving the way for improved support and tailored interventions for individuals with autism.

By staying informed on the latest advancements, we can collectively contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society.

If you want your paper to stand out, pick one of these great research topics for your biological research!

  • The role of cells in healing damaged bones.
  • The right amount of protein to consume.
  • Effects of cancer on growth cells.
  • Is it ethically good to research stem cells?
  • Different ways in which cells communicate.
  • How are DNA and the environment connected?
  • Recent developments in cell biochemistry.
  • Can you reverse the process of aging?
  • How are cilia facilitating the cells’ movement?
  • Reasons why cells get sticky.
  • Understanding how the brain keeps memories.
  • Is surgery the only way of treating glaucoma?
  • Understanding protein biosynthesis process.
  • The central dogma of molecular biology – what must you know?
  • Understanding diffusion as a transport technique.
  • The role of microtubules in the nervous system.
  • Ways to improve hypertrophy in the body.
  • The impact of sunburns.
  • The effects of music on the brain.
  • How is learning affected by the sleep and wake cycles?
  • Is drinking more water could prevent extensive sunburns? 
  • The effects of sunlight on biomass.

Easy Biology Research Paper Topics

If you are new to the field of biology, then you can start looking at this list of easy biology research topics.

  • The process of tissue formation.
  • Reasons for the existence of different congenital disabilities.
  • Existing HIV drugs and their complexities.
  • Why does chemotherapy fail for some patients?
  • The effect of germs on the cells.
  • How does the sun affect the skin?
  • Why can’t we treat some diseases with drugs?
  • Ways to treat animals that are carrying the virus.
  • Discuss the five animals in extinction.
  • Why should people care for endangered species?
  • Can humans sustain a plant-based diet?
  • The inconveniences of space travel.
  • The emergence of leukemia.
  • Understanding the human immune system.
  • Factors responsible for weakening the immunological system.
  • The origin and consequences of autoimmune.
  • How immune disorder affects the human body.
  • Effectiveness of vaccines in eradicating a disease.
  • Complexities of taking the Hepatitis B vaccine.
  • Why do humans have allergies?
  • How does DNA modification work?
  • Common misconceptions about COVID-19.

Interesting biology research topics

Looking into biology can be super fun – many cool topics exist. High school and college students can find something that interests them, whether a common topic relevant to the community or something more fascinating. It’s worth checking out!

  • Effects of marijuana and alcohol on teenagers.
  • How is alcohol affecting teenagers and adults?
  • How is neuroscience helpful in coping with emotional pain?
  • How does the brain process speech?
  • Factors that are responsible for autism.
  • Is it true that a human is an animal?
  • The effect of isolation on the human brain.
  • Factors contributing to automatic responses.
  • How is noise pollution affecting living organisms?
  • Understanding the fire ecology.
  • Understanding the term bioremediation.
  • What should we know about urban ecology?
  • Is excessive internet usage damaging to human memory?
  • Understanding the infectious-disease-causing agents.
  • The importance of cancer research.
  • Why is genetic engineering a challenge?
  • The role of melatonin in therapy.
  • Are hormones responsible for risky behavior?
  • What is the latest research on stem and cloning?
  • Physical activities and their role in hormone development.
  • Transgenic crops – benefits and threats.
  • Analyzing the fight against smallpox.
  • The future of prosthetic appliances.
  • Examining mind-controlled limbs.
  • Is cosmetic surgery a need?
  • The significance and process of vascular surgery.
  • Analyzing trends in biomedicine.
  • The functions of X-rays.
  • The most effective way of preserving wildlife.
  • Poverty and its contribution to climate hazards.
  • Analyzing how a human body reacts to poison.
  • The misconceptions about sexually transmitted diseases.
  • The significance of understanding evolutionary biology.

Good biology research topics

If you’re looking for an exciting biology research paper topic, try and find one that offers an unexpected angle on life.

It should be engaging, captivating, and relevant to the world. It’s all about exploring a subject with lots of potential and can help us better grasp life and living organisms.

Here’s another list of great topics for your biology research.

  • Understanding quantitative ecology.
  • The causes of acidification of seas and its consequences.
  • Immortality of jellyfish.
  • The difference between seawater and freshwater.
  • The evolution of the deep sea.
  • The communication techniques of whales.
  • Coral reefs and their importance to seawater.
  • The effects of tourism on natural animal habitats.
  • Is it possible to domesticate wild marine animals?
  • The pros and cons of living in the coastal zone.
  • The survival of plants in the sea.
  • Analyzing two different species of animals in the water.
  • Ways to generate and use marine energy.
  • Molecular genetics and its ethical considerations.
  • Understanding the structure of the gene.
  • Analyzing restrictions in the DNA.
  • Examining the building blocks of life.
  • Understanding why prion disease is so dangerous.
  • Dominant genes vs. recessive genes.
  • Is there a possibility of human DNA getting damaged?
  • What is the objective of nucleic acid?
  • How to cope with the challenge of animal extinction
  • Things we should know about sea life.
  • The history of genetics.
  • How has the lockdown affected social interaction?
  • Reasons behind some people refusing the vaccine.
  • Is animal hunting a fashion or a need?
  • The evolution of a virus.
  • What does invasive species mean?
  • Is life on Mars Possible?
  • Understanding the term’ herd immunity.’
  • How are biology and archaeology related?
  • What should we know about natural selection?
  • The dead branches of evolution.
  • The present trends of whale hunting.

Biology research topics related to cells and more

Advances in cell biology can help treat illnesses and wipe out viruses. Crafting a paper on this topic can be a satisfying experience for any biology student. Here you go with some interesting topics related to cells and more.

  • The effects of gut bacteria on the brain.
  • Ethical concerns around organ transplant.
  • How does alcohol affect the liver?
  • Is obesity related to genetics?
  • Why do we need genetically modified foods?
  • Sun exposure and its effect on the human skin.
  • Is it correct to say that depression is hereditary?
  • How is music influencing the human brain?
  • The latest trends in forensic DNA.
  • The importance of nanotechnology in the treatment of HIV.
  • Understanding how humans consume food.
  • Challenges that technology is posing to human health.
  • The most common cell infections.
  • The structure of the animal cell.
  • The role of cell biology in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Identifying the characteristics of viruses.
  • The difference between RNA and DNA.
  • The hormonal control system of mammals.
  • Factors that speed up the metabolism.
  • Understanding hormonal malfunctioning.
  • The structure of digestive systems.
  • The importance of the sun as an energy source for cells.
  • Size and function of Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic cells.
  • Cell membranes and their importance.
  • How are DNA and RNA different?
  • Importance of cell biology in understanding genetics.
  • Understanding the molecular energy reserves.
  • The significance of apoptosis for growth.
  • How impactful are defective cells for the normal functioning of the body?
  • The relationship between cell function and cell structure.
  • How are cytokines and cell biology related? 

Excellent Biology Research Topics

Still on the hunt for top-notch topics for your biology research paper? Check out this list; it has some great research topics for you to consider.

  • Global warming and its biological impact.
  • Factors affecting population genetics.
  • Oxytocin and its role in the human reproductive system.
  • The functioning of the human immune system.
  • Effective ways to deal with stress biology.
  • Common causes of asthma.
  • The effect of transplantation on the human immune system.
  • Perception of vaccination in society.
  • The properties of well-functioning human cells.
  • Restricting enzymes and their importance in body functionality.
  • The role of neurobiology in improving human memory.
  • Different chemical reactions in the human body.
  • The evolution of biology.
  • The main reasons for plant diseases and how to cure them?
  • The phenomenon of homosexuality and bisexuality.
  • Biodiversity and climate change.
  • How physical exercises can impact metabolism.
  • Bacteria and its effect on depression.
  • The adverse effects of rainforest extinction.
  • Ways of mapping and cloning genes.
  • The adverse effects of the oligogenic disease.
  • Hereditary diseases and their danger.
  • The cognitive functions of primates.
  • Down syndrome and its leading causes.
  • Probiotics and their role in curing infections.
  • Main reasons for obesity in pets.
  • The pros and cons of testing beauty products on animals.
  • A case study on the biology of marine birds.

New and Trendy Biology Research Topics

It’s a good idea to keep up with the times when writing a biology research paper, so here’s a list of some of the hottest biology topics right now.

  • Understanding genetic drift.
  • The complex process of DNA Replication.
  • The importance of neurobiology.
  • Is genetic engineering a way to cure obesity?
  • Does age slow our reaction time?
  • Bipolar disorder – what do we need to know?
  • Hormones and their effect on our behavior.
  • Should human cloning be legalized?
  • The advantages of vaccination.
  • Is it correct that bees are becoming extinct?
  • The unique biology of marine birds.
  • Understanding the extracellular matrix.
  • Differences between warm-blooded and cold-blooded animals?
  • The existence and evolution of arthropods.
  • Annelids and their characteristics.
  • The evolution of reptiles.
  • Ways to prevent genetic diseases.
  • Genetic testing and its ethical implications.
  • Is DNA helpful in solving crimes?
  • The role of antibiotics in controlling diseases.
  • How effective is bone marrow transplant in treating sickle cell?
  • Probiotics and their harmful effects.
  • What factors cause stress in plants?
  • The psychological development of infants.
  • Parasites and their evolution.
  • Sunscreen and its adverse effects.
  • The harmful effects of toothpaste you should know.
  • The biological basis of psychological disorder.
  • The recent development of oxytocin science.
  • The importance of cardio exercises.
  • The significance of therapeutic cloning.
  • The benefits of organic farming.
  • Understanding DNA testing.
  • Analyzing the impact of steroids.
  • The role of neuroscience in robotic technology.
  • Ways to deal with the problem of extinction.
  • Genetic factors that influence the immunological system.
  • Understanding the neurobiological explanation of sleep.
  • The phenomenon of DNA-modified organisms.
  • The evolution of infectious diseases.
  • Pollution and its impact on people.

You now have a good idea of what biology research topics you want to explore, right? Check what your professor is expecting and then contact our experts if you have a problem dealing with this assignment yourself. 

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100 Interesting Biology Research Paper Topics For Students

biology topics

Do you know how important it is to find the most interesting biology topics? The truth is that nowadays, students of all ages are trying to make the most of the largest source of information: the Internet. This means that almost all of your classmates will search for biology paper topics online. There is a very big chance that at least one of them will pick a topic very similar to yours. You want to find a source of topics that nobody else has. This is precisely why you need our help; and why you need to read this blog post to the end.

Why Choose Our Biology Topics?

So, why would you choose our biology topics to write about? This is a very good question. Our list of 100 topics, unlike other lists, is periodically updated. We make every effort to keep our list as fresh as possible. Of course, there is no guarantee that other students haven’t already picked some of our biology essay topics. If you want to be 100% certain that you get a topic that is both interesting and one hundred percent original, you should get in touch with us and request a list of topics.

Pick Only Original Biology Research Topics for an A+

OK, so why would you strive to find hot topics in biology? There are plenty of reasons for this, of course. Here are some of the benefits of getting access of a source of good research topics for biology:

The topic you choose will stand out from the rest. Your professor will take notice and you will probably get bonus points. You instantly demonstrate to your professor that you’ve invested a lot of time into finding the perfect topics. Good topics are not easy to write a paper on. They aren’t too general either. You can expect to get a very good grade if your topic manages to pique the interest of your professor. You can continue your research after getting your biology graduation.

Our List of 100 Biology Research Paper Topics

Interesting biology research topics.

If you are looking for the most intriguing biology topics, you should definitely check out the following ideas:

  • How do homeothermic mammals generate heat?
  • What causes the three most widespread plant diseases?
  • Understanding cancer and how it appears.
  • The most important breakthroughs in biology.
  • How do microbial factories work?

AP Biology Topics

Are you looking for the best examples of AP biology topics? If you are, you’ve arrived at the right place. Check out our ideas and use any one of them for free right now:

  • Explaining the bottleneck effect.
  • What is genetic drift and how does it happen?
  • Explain the complex process of DNA replication.
  • The role of the pituitary gland in the endocrine system.
  • The definition and role of enzymes.

Biology Research Topics for College Students

Maybe you don’t need any IB biology IA topics. If you are after some biology research topics for college students, we have some for you:

  • Can Ebola be used as a biological weapon?
  • Could immortality become reality in the near future?
  • What is neurobiology and how is it used?
  • Precautions are taken before and after a transplant.
  • Why is abortion so controverted in many countries?
  • Can genetic engineering cure obesity?

Biology IA Topics

Although it’s pretty rare to find biology IA topics on the Internet, we managed to find the best ones for you. Pick any from our list:

  • Analyze the genetic differences between two phyla.
  • The effects of carbon dioxide and water vapor on the temperature.
  • Are our reaction times slowed by age?
  • How does salt affect the germination of a specific seed?
  • Use BLAST analysis to compare 3 species of animals in terms of evolution.
  • Analyzing CO2 levels before and after physical exercise.

Biology Topics for Presentation

If you need to put together a presentation and don’t have much time at your disposal, just use one of our interesting biology topics for presentation:

  • The domestication of wolves.
  • Analyzing the three main theories about the origins of humans.
  • Human cloning causes more harm than good.
  • A presentation on abortion law in the United States.
  • The process of DNA modification on smoking adult males.
  • Neurobiology: the study of the way we store our memories.

Biology Project Topics

Finding good biology project topics that don’t take much time to write about can be a daunting task. Fortunately, we have just the topics you’re looking for:

  • The effect of oxytocin on psychopathic patients.
  • Comparing the gestation period of humans to other mammals.
  • How does pollution affect humans today?
  • Is hypnosis real?
  • Why is my dog/cat obese?
  • The function of the human immune system.

Current Topics in Developmental Biology

If you want to write about the latest breakthroughs in developmental biology, you should select one of the following ideas:

  • Bipolar disorder: the biology involved.
  • Do hormones affect the way we behave?
  • Do hormones bring a significant contribution to depression?
  • Discussing endocrinology.
  • The three main psychopathic disorders and the hormones that influence them.
  • Who came up with the human cloning idea?

Controversial Biology Topics

Of course, writing about controversial biology topics is not something you should be afraid of. Pick one of our examples and start writing right now:

  • The moral aspect of human cloning.
  • Homosexuality is caused by genetic processes.
  • Are drugs altering our genes?
  • The negative effects of transgenic crops.
  • Altering DNA can make us immortal, but should we try it?

Biology Debate Topics

When you need to write a debate paper, you will need some good biology debate topics. Here are some of the topics we find to be most interesting:

  • Should we legalize human cloning?
  • Is growing organs for transplantation in laboratories ethical?
  • Is obesity caused by genetic disorders?
  • You can have a genetic predisposition to depression.
  • How safe are genetically altered foods?
  • Is drug addiction explained by biology?

Molecular Biology Topics

Even though molecular biology topics are not easy, we’ve gone to great lengths to find the best and easiest for you:

  • The different methods of cloning.
  • Analyzing the Prion disease.
  • How are memories stored?
  • The effect of antibiotics on cells.
  • The real benefits of vaccination.

Biology Research Topics for High School Students

Need some help finding biology topics for high school students? You’ve arrived at the right place. Check out the following examples:

  • Research methods used in cell biology.
  • Explaining endothelial cell biology.
  • Explaining male pregnancy in animals.
  • The link between immunity and stress.
  • What causes asthma?
  • Why does the Paleo diet work?

Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates

We know that finding excellent research topics in biology for undergraduates can be very difficult. We’re here to help you with some ideas:

  • A comparative analysis of invasive plants in the US.
  • A behavioral study of migratory birds.
  • Using plants for environmental assessment.
  • Siderophores generated by the Rhizobacteria and their effect on plant growth.
  • Explaining high molecular weight plant DNA.

Popular Biology Research Topics

Of course, you may be trying to find the most popular biology research topics. You want to surprise your professor. Check out these ideas:

  • How is melatonin used for therapy purposes?
  • The best ways to protect US wildlife.
  • How does climate change affect biodiversity in Alaska?
  • How dangerous is global warming really?
  • Are bees becoming extinct?

Human Biology Topics

This is perhaps the most common type of topics students are searching for on the Internet. We have some very nice human biology topics for you:

  • How do we prevent the rejection of grafts?
  • Problems caused by immunotherapy.
  • The biology behind immune system agents.
  • The biology behind allergic reactions.
  • The resistance of the human immune system.
  • Three negative effects of pollution on humans.

Cool Biology Topics

Cool biology topics are exactly what you need when you want to surprise your professor. Our writers have put together some of the best examples for you:

  • How is Raman Imaging used for researching plants?
  • What are Metacyc and Aracyc?
  • The perfect model of environmental sustainability.
  • How do GABA receptors work?
  • Differences between meningitis disease and virus.
  • Macrophage activation: the biology behind it.

Marine Biology Research Topics

With everything that’s happening in the world due to climate change and global warming, it’s only normal to search for some marine biology topics. Here are some excellent examples:

  • Camouflaging methods are used by sea animals.
  • The ecological approach to sustainable marine research.
  • Marine birds and their unique biology.
  • Dangerous levels of lead are found in ocean fish.
  • Seamounts and the biology behind them.
  • Defining biodiversity.

Evolutionary Biology Research Paper Topics

It’s not easy to find biology topics for research, especially when we are talking about evolutionary biology. Don’t worry; we have some great ideas for you:

  • A literature review of microbial evolution.
  • Evolutionary biology explains many infectious agents.
  • An in-depth analysis of genome evolution.
  • How do dead branches appear in evolution?
  • The evolutionary factors that influence plant growth.

Cell Biology Research Topics

Of course, no list of biology topics would be complete without some excellent cell biology topics. Here are some examples that you can use right now:

  • Analyze the structure of a specific cell.
  • What causes denitrification in cells?
  • Atherosclerosis: the biology behind the disease.
  • An in-depth look at the cholesterol transport protein.
  • What is an extracellular matrix?

Use our topics in biology and start writing the essay right away. Why spend hours upon hours searching for ideas when our biology topics list is right here? It’s 100% free and will always be free to get topics from our thesis writers .

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Department of Biological Sciences

biology research topics for undergraduates

Examples of Undergraduate Research Projects

Fall 2021 projects, previous projects.

Division of Biology and Medicine

Biology undergraduate education.

The Program in Biology exposes undergraduates to research through practical training, courses, and opportunities for independent study with faculty pursuing cutting edge-science in a variety of fields. 

Research in BioMed

Did You Know?

The Division of Biology and Medicine is made up of six basic science and 14 clinical departments, all of which support faculty engaged in research. Each year more than 500 students enroll in independent study courses and pursue summer research with Division faculty.

Overview of Research in Biology at Brown

Research and experiential learning are valuable and rewarding experiences for undergraduates, no matter what the longer-term career plans may be.

What is Research?

SciToons at Brown explores a range of approaches to research--and the fundamental goal that unites them all.

Research Ethics

You may already be familiar with what research is, but what defines good research? Ethics help answer this question.

Research Timeline: Years 1-4

For students seeking the ScB degree, research is a requirement. For students in an AB program, research for credit is an option. For projects carried out over a longer period that take substantive shape, a senior honors thesis is a possible outcome.

PhageHunters

To Do : In preparation for research in a faculty member’s lab, first year students are strongly encouraged to participate in a  Lab Techniques Workshop  (described below). Annually (even year fall semesters), the BUE Office and PLME Program team up to offer the  Finding, Securing and Succeeding at Research Workshop  for undergraduates. This is especially ideal for first year and sophomore students. Join the  BUE Email List  or follow us on Facebook for announcements about these workshops.

Sophomores and Juniors   forge connections with campus-based and clinical faculty to begin exploring and experiencing research in their field of interest. Sophomore seminars such as Life in a Shell, Viral Epidemics, and Rhode Island Flora offer active learning opportunities that help students practice the critical thinking necessary for independent research. Inquiry based courses such as Inquiry in Biochemistry and Inquiry in Plant Biology   use group work to orient students to the development of novel scientific questions and accompanying methods.

To Do: Consider enrolling in BIOL 0945: Toolbox for Scientific Research, which is a half credit sophomore seminar designed for students who want to understand and engage in scientific research at Brown and beyond. Students are also encouraged to pursue BEARCORE training at the onset of research in a faculty member’s lab (described below). BEARCORE is offered only in spring and ideal for sophomore or junior year.

Juniors and Seniors   pursue more independent research with campus and clinical faculty. Students intending to develop a senior thesis will typically commit the final summer and last two academic semesters to the research project.

To Do : Check out funding opportunities . Learn more about honors theses . Each spring, seniors are welcome to present their research in the Biology Senior Research and Capstone poster event.

Preparing for Research: Foundations of Lab Techniques Workshop  

At the start of each semester the Multidisciplinary Teaching Laboratories (MDL) offers a Foundations of Lab Techniques Workshop for undergrads. The workshop is designed to introduce basic laboratory skills and techniques to undergraduate students before they begin working in a faculty member’s lab, in preparation for independent study, or for summer UTRA opportunities. MDL technicians tailor the two-hour session to the skill level of the students. The following topics are covered:

  • Guidelines for keeping a lab notebook;
  • Good laboratory practices;
  • Use of balances, centrifuges and autoclaves;
  • Using a microscope;
  • Making solutions;
  • Pipetting and assessing accuracy of pipetting technique;
  • Using balance and preparing a simple solution;
  • Sterile technique (including auto pipetting); and
  • Sterile transfer of reagents in a hood.

Upcoming workshops at the Biomedical Center in these techniques will be facilitated by the MDL each semester, consisting of an asynchronous component featuring content through Google Classroom followed by an in-person lab practical component to master the hands-on, technical skills presented. If you're interested in participating in future workshop, please join the BUE email list for registration announcements.

Join the BUE Email List for registration announcements

Finding Research

Biology students find research opportunities in a number of ways. One way is through  BURO  – the BioMed Undergraduate Research Opportunities web portal. BURO is updated in real time and includes faculty posted opportunities that are short-term, long-term, take place over summer or the academic year, those that are paid, voluntary, or take the form of a Biology independent study.

Many students find research opportunities with faculty by talking with Professors they have taken a course with, seeking direction from the BUE Advising staff or their concentration advisor, or by searching for key areas of interest on  Researchers@Brown .

Every fall semester the BUE and PLME Program offer an evening workshop  How to Find, Secure, and Succeed in Research . We will announce this event through Today@Brown. 

Biomed Undergraduate Research Opportunities (BURO)

BURO is a web portal where BioMed faculty post research and experiential opportunities for Brown undergraduates. BURO is updated in real time and includes opportunities that are short-term, long-term, take place over summer or the academic year, those that are paid, voluntary, or take the form of a Biology independent study.

Department of Biology

Undergraduate research.

cells

  • Sample BA Schedule
  • Upper-level Electives
  • Sample BS Schedule
  • Information for Prospective Students
  • Master’s Program Advanced Course Requirements
  • Summer Research Opportunities

One advantage of attending the Johns Hopkins University is the opportunity to participate in research as an undergraduate student. Laboratories in biology, biophysics, chemistry, and engineering, as well as departments at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, regularly have openings for qualified undergraduates to participate in research that is sufficiently biological in nature to receive biology credit.

More important than credits, research experience complements classroom education by teaching undergraduates laboratory skills and critical thinking. Ideally, students will move beyond accruing knowledge to actually contributing to knowledge.

Students may earn up to 6 credits per academic year (June through May), with a maximum total of 24 credits applicable to the 120 needed for graduation. Up to 3 credit hours may be earned during each term (fall semester, spring semester, summer, or intersession).

Please note that it is possible to receive both credit and pay for the same work . Most research-for-credit positions are unpaid, but exceptions may exist for students with a fellowship or work study, during the summer or by other arrangements.

Biology research can only receive Satisfactory (S) or Unsatisfactory (U) grades.

Requirements for Undergraduate Research

Professors make a large investment of time and resources in students doing research in their laboratories. If you are thinking about working on a research project, you should first consider several important points:

  • Do you have adequate free time available? On average, it will require a minimum of 10 hours per week in the laboratory to earn 3 credits in a semester. It is most desirable that this time be available in a small number of large blocks; for example, three afternoons per week. Working on weekends may eventually be possible, but the initial phase will require you to be in the lab at the same time as those who are training you.
  • The second requirement is disciplined study habits. While dedicating at least 10 hours per week to research, you must be able to keep up with your coursework.
  • The third requirement is long-term commitment. Professors often expect students to work in their labs for more than one semester in order to make significant headway on a given research project. It usually takes several months of training before students are able to work with significant independence, so students must plan to work for at least a year in a specific lab.

More Information

  • Applying for research grants

How to Find a Research Position in a Lab

A student may perform biological research in a laboratory whose supervisor holds a faculty-level appointment at Johns Hopkins University. Researchers at other institutions may also be accepted, depending on your agreement with your research sponsor. Once you determine what sort of biological research interests you, there are several ways to find a suitable research position.

One approach involves consulting the web pages of the relevant departments where lists of the faculty members and their research interests can be found. Another approach is to ask friends or acquaintances if they know of openings in any labs. From these sources, a student can choose several faculty members whose research is of interest to them. The student should then go to the web pages of those faculty members and locate the list of the professor’s current publications. Students can obtain these publications from the library or online and read one or two to gain further insights into the type of research carried out in different labs. Once you have prepared yourself, you should contact the faculty member to express interest and inquire if a position is available. Be brief and ask for an interview. Please do not spam the faculty—write to individuals. See  this page of the Research Awards website  for more helpful tips on this process.

See more information from the Hopkins Office for Undergraduate Research (HOUR) .

If the faculty member responds favorably, you should write a resume listing your academic qualifications, any previous lab experience, your course schedule (showing the time you have available for research), and bring this to the interview. Treat the interview like a job interview. If the professor has no room, ask if they know of any other labs with openings.

How to Register for Undergraduate Research

After finding a place in a research lab, you must register to receive academic credit.

Contact your research sponsor ahead of time about registering for their section of Independent Research in Biology (AS.020.503) . Once they agree, you may register in SIS. In the Online Forms section, select Independent Academic Work . Fill out the form based on which Biology department faculty member is supervising or sponsoring your research. All research registered through the Biology department is S/U and the number of credits is proportional to the time spent in lab: 40 hours total is equivalent to 1 credit (80 hours = 2 credits, 120 hours = 3 credits). Select your best estimate of credits for the semester. The assigned work is a 3-page summary paper which will be described in more detail by the sponsoring or supervising faculty member. Enter a few sentences to describe your research project and submit the form. The request will be sent to the appropriate faculty member and they can approve the enrollment for credit.

Your sponsoring faculty member may wish to use this summary report file as part of the end-of-term paper.

No more than 6 credits of independent academic work can be earned in one academic year (summer-spring). See the e-catalogue for information on registering for Independent Academic Work.

Department of Biological Sciences

College of natural and mathematical sciences, undergraduate research opportunities.

Undergraduate research is one of the most exciting and rewarding opportunities for UMBC students.  Students can work closely with faculty mentors on a wide range of research topics, including cell biology, neurobiology, genetics, evolution and animal behavior.  Undergraduate students who do well at research have the opportunity to apply for research funding, to be co-authors on publications, and to present their findings at local and national conferences.

UMBC – Research Grounded In Mentorship from The College Tour on Vimeo .

Biology majors looking to participate in independent research could receive credit towards their degree. Biological Sciences B.S. students may use two semesters of BIOL 499, plus one semester of either BIOL 499L or BIOL 497H as one of their Upper Level Laboratory Electives. Biological Sciences B.A. student may use BIOL 499 towards the 45 Upper Level Credits needed for graduation (it cannot be used as a B.A. major requirement). Students interested in research should speak with their advisor and reach out to any faculty members they are interested in working with. Faculty research areas can be found on the Faculty Directory or Research topics pages of this site. Student performing independent research for more than three semesters should consider the Departmental Honors program.

Students looking for a research or internship experience outside the Department of Biological Sciences should speak to their advisor; the Career Center ; or Dr. Kevin Omland , course coordinator about BIOL 398: Co-op Internship in the Biological Sciences. BIOL 398 cannot be used towards biology major requirements, but the credits can count towards the 45 upper level credits needed for graduation. Dr. Omland will provide students with the BIOL 398 requirements .

Dr. Erin Green holds petri dish up to light as her and student look through it.

The Office of Undergraduate Research  provides information on the many research opportunities provided by UMBC and beyond. They also have an extensive list of  summer undergraduate research opportunities  for undergraduates, many funded. Most students who participate in independent research present at local, regional, and national conferences, including UMBC’s Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day ( URCAD ) in April and CNMS Summer Undergraduate Research Fest ( SURF ) in August.

The Department sponsors and/or supports a number of undergraduate-focused research initiatives, including:

  • Undergraduate Research Training Initiative for Student Enhancement Program (U-RISE at UMBC), funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, NIH (formerly MARC U*STAR)
  • STEM BUILD Training Program (BTP), funded by the National Institute of Health
  • Undergraduate Research Awards (URA), sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate
  • Research International Research Experience for Students (IRES) project on conservation biology in The Bahamas, funded by NSF
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Undergraduate Research Experiences in Biology: Alternatives to the Apprenticeship Model

  • Cynthia A. Wei
  • Terry Woodin

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This is the first in a series of articles exploring some of the approaches advocated in the American Association for the Advancement of Science's (AAAS) Vision and Change in Undergraduate Biology Education ( AAAS, 2011a ), an effort within the biology community to address the needs of undergraduate education in the life sciences ( Woodin et al ., 2009 , 2010 ) in response to the dramatic and rapid transformations in biology in recent decades ( National Research Council, 2009 ). The Vision and Change report describes a number of ways to meet the needs of the 21st-century undergraduate. Here, we address one of the changes advocated in that report—the call to “introduce the scientific process to students early, and integrate it into all undergraduate biology courses.” We review a representative sampling of recent innovations integrating scientific research experiences within the biology curriculum. Most (but not all) of the examples given are drawn from the recent literature and from projects presented at a recent meeting of principal investigators from the National Science Foundation's Course, Curriculum and Laboratory Improvement/Transforming Undergraduate Education in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program ( AAAS, 2011b ). We hope that this sampling will provide new insights and ideas that will encourage more faculty members to consider ways to involve their undergraduate students in research. In addition to outlining a variety of approaches being used, this article briefly addresses, first, the way in which different biological subdisciplines (e.g., ecology, molecular biology, genomics) and different types of institutions are incorporating this approach into their curriculum and, second, the outcomes that are beginning to emerge and the tools being developed to document and evaluate these outcomes.

The opportunity to conduct independent research as an undergraduate has often been cited as the compelling experience that launches a scientific career ( National Research Council, 2003 ; A. Roe, as cited in Lopatto, 2010 ). The benefits of such experiences have been chronicled both anecdotally (Cejda and Hensel, 2009) and in studies that span institutional types and disciplinary approaches ( Russell et al ., 2007 ; Lopatto, 2010 ). The apprenticeship model, in which students conduct independent research projects in an individual faculty member's laboratory, is a well-established approach to providing independent research experiences. As the demand for undergraduate research experiences increases, the strain on institutions and faculty trying to meet this demand becomes more evident. Whereas this approach is critical for providing students with an inside view of how science proceeds and for socializing them into the scientific community, it requires a great deal of financial and faculty resources. Thus, its reach is very limited. The apprenticeship model is especially difficult for institutions where research is not a large part of their institutional mission, and many students, particularly those from populations currently underrepresented in the STEM professional community, may not seek out these opportunities. The need for alternative ways of bringing the benefits of undergraduate research experiences to students and engaging them in the scholarly community is becoming increasingly evident.

INTEGRATING SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH EXPERIENCES THROUGHOUT THE BIOLOGY CURRICULUM

As faculty and departments recognize that the benefits of engaging in the scholarship of science apply to a broad spectrum of students, they have been finding creative ways of providing these experiences to a broader population. The following sections attempt to describe some of the many approaches being used to accomplish this goal. The projects highlighted here are a small sampling (see Table 1 ) that collectively represent a spectrum of approaches; these approaches range from literature-based investigations that are amenable to lecture classrooms to research activities within the lab, and include research projects that bring students out of the classroom and into their communities to address local problems. Although these approaches may vary in the resources they require and the contexts for which they are best suited, they all share the ability to actively engage and inspire students.

Introducing Students to Research; Demystifying Science and Scientists through Close Investigations of Individual Research Labs

Most students who seek apprenticeship-type research experiences are already self-identified as science majors ( Lopatto, 2010 ), and many students, particularly underrepresented minorities, may not consider participating in apprenticeship-type undergraduate research experiences because they are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with the idea of research. One approach that can reach broader populations of students is to engage students in “thinking like a scientist” and to introduce them to the work of individual scientists in the classroom. This can be accomplished, for example, through close investigations of scientific literature in the classroom, as is done in the Consider, Read, Elucidate the hypotheses, Analyze and interpret the data, and Think of the next Experiment (CREATE) approach (Table 1 ), in which students study a series of research papers from a single research laboratory and interact with scientists in the focal lab through email surveys, or through meaningful collaborations with scientists, as achieved by students developing physical models of specific proteins of interest in the Connecting Researchers, Educators, and Students (CREST) program at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, Milwaukee, WI (Table 1 ).

Experiencing the Process of Science: Integrating Scientific Research into the Student Laboratory

There are several approaches to accomplishing the key recommendation of Vision and Change for faculty to integrate research activities into classrooms and student laboratories that can be applied to a broad spectrum of institutional types and subdisciplines within biology. One approach that is often used by faculty with active research programs is to develop projects that integrate teaching with research efforts. For example, the Authentic Research Experience in Microbiology (AREM) project (Table 1 ) engages students in research projects that contribute to the research objectives of an individual faculty member; in one course, students isolated strains of the plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens , the subject of the instructor's research , and explored the biology of this bacterium through a variety of research-based modules. The Project Laboratory in Genetics and Genomics course (Table 1 ) is another example in which students engage in original research projects that are inspired by local faculty research interests.

Another approach that is gaining momentum is to provide opportunities in the classroom for students to participate in original collaborative research and contribute to a broader research effort. These approaches make research more accessible and affordable for faculty members who do not have active research programs (or are engaged in research that does not translate well to a group project) and can be used in many types of institutions, including community colleges. Genomics represents one such fundamental area of modern biology that has the potential to engage students in cutting-edge research. Genomics research is especially amenable to collaborative research ( Shaffer et al. , 2010 ), in part because teaching and research materials are both easily accessible and readily distributed and because raw data can be available at low cost (often free, from nationally funded databases). Furthermore, genomics can be readily adapted to create projects of varying complexity. A growing number of efforts are using genomics to engage students in research in the classroom, including the National Genomics Research Initiative developed by Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Science Education Alliance (SEA; Table 1 ), which engages freshmen in a national experiment on bacteriophage genomics; the Genomics Education Partnership at Washington University, St. Louis (Table 1 ), which currently focuses on a problem in Drosophila evolution, working primarily with upper-level undergraduates ( Lopatto et al. , 2008 ; Shaffer et al. , 2010 ); and the Community College Genomics Research Initiative at Bellevue Community College, Bellevue, WA (Table 1 ), which focuses exclusively on bringing genomics research into community college biology classrooms. This collaborative approach is not limited to genomics. For example, the Partnership for Research and Education in Plants for Undergraduates (PREP-U) project (Table 1 ) engages students in studying interactions of Arabidopsis with small herbivores at the genetic, biochemical, organismal, and population levels; students share data online with scientists at a distance via video chat, email, or the PREP Online Lab Notebook ( www.prep.biochem.vt.edu ).

In other fields where research is typically conducted in natural settings, integrating research opportunities into courses is often challenging. However, newly developing online approaches offer economical and accessible ways to bring field research into classrooms and laboratories. For example, at the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL), Crested Butte, CO (Table 1 ), cyber resources are being developed that will enable students to access the extensive collection of datasets at RMBL, including those mapping regional climate, weather, and biodiversity trends, as well as supporting materials for inquiry-based activities. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, is also developing online resources for cyber-enabled research investigations. The project, Online Research in Biology (Table 1 ), provides access to the Cornell Lab's world-class databases about birds, other animals, and their habitats, including citizen-science–assembled bird population data and the Macaulay Library's archives of animal sound recordings and videos. Cyber-based approaches may lack some of the appeal of fieldwork, but they offer students unique opportunities to engage with data gathered across time and from multiple, often remote sites while avoiding the logistical challenges to gathering such data. As online collections of scientific data continue to grow, so do the accessibility and appeal of this approach.

Science in Society: Connecting Research Experiences to Real-World Issues

1 There are five independent undergraduate science research projects at Little Big Horn College, Crow Agency, MT. We highlight one of these projects—the Community-Based Participatory Research project on water quality led by Mari Eggers.

CROSS-CUTTING ANALYSES

Tools to aid resource-limited institutions.

2 All of these programs provide websites with instructional and problem-solving activities. Typically, faculty members who wish to join the collaborative effort apply to attend a multi-day workshop to learn the experimental approaches, software tools, and such.

3 GCAT now provides support in synthetic biology as well ( www.bio.davidson.edu/projects/gcat/Synthetic/synthetic.html ).

A growing number of efforts are also providing support to community colleges to help their faculty incorporate student research into the curriculum ( Cejda and Hensel, 2009 ). The Community College Undergraduate Research Initiative (CCURI) at Finger Lakes Community College, Canandaigua, NY, is developing a model to facilitate this goal. The model takes into consideration several of the barriers faced by community colleges, including the issue of student transfer to 4-yr colleges; in the CCURI model, research experiences provide course credit that is transferable to 4-yr institutions. Other projects address this issue by forming partnerships between 2- and 4-yr institutions to enrich the research experience, as is the case for the Community-Based Participatory Research project. Such partnerships can also facilitate continuity for transfer students, as illustrated by the California State University (CSU), Chico, and Butte Community College, Oroville, CA, partnership, where a two-tiered set of labs in cell and molecular biology provides a smoother transition for students from Butte who transfer to CSU Chico. These students, having taken the first-tier lab at Butte, can enter the second-tier lab with the same background in the course topic as their CSU Chico classmates.

Suitability across Institutions and Biological Subfields

This small sampling of both mature and newly developing projects that engage undergraduates in original research illustrates approaches that are feasible at a wide range of institutions, from community colleges to research-focused universities and from small private institutions to large public ones, including minority-serving institutions. Examples given in Table 1 range across a variety of biological topics and disciplines, from the cellular and molecular levels (genetics, genomics, microbiology) to the organismal and population levels (ecology, animal behavior). Given the diversity of approaches that faculties have developed and the successes they are documenting, we might surmise that the only limits to finding ways to engage students with biological research are the limits of our creativity; it is no longer possible to say this approach cannot be done on a particular campus or in a particular discipline. Rather, the question that faculty understandably wrestle with becomes whether a particular approach is appropriate for its unique situation and group of students.

Outcomes and Observations

A number of tools have evolved for studying the outcomes of engaging students with the scholarship of the discipline. Several studies have documented the benefits of research experiences of the apprenticeship type ( Russell et al. , 2007 ; Junge et al ., 2010 ; Laursen et al. , 2010 ; Lopatto, 2010 ). These have included, at a minimum, student surveys about attitudes toward science and perceptions of the value of the research experiences. One set of commonly used assessment tools is the Summer Undergraduate Research Experiences (SURE) survey and its cousin, the Classroom Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE) survey, developed by David Lopatto (Grinnell College, Grinnell, IA). These surveys include precourse and postcourse questions that ask about science attitudes and, in the postcourse survey, estimates of learning gains and perceptions of benefits from the course. Many of the projects described here report outcomes of SURE/CURE surveys or adapted versions of these tools; in all of these cases, students reported several benefits from their classroom-based research experiences, and in at least some cases they showed gains similar to those reported by students who had spent a summer in a research apprenticeship ( Lopatto et al. , 2008 ). Some of these benefits include enhanced understanding of the scientific process, increased interest in science, and increased confidence in various scientific skills. Many projects have also devised content- and competency-based exams to determine whether engaging in classroom-based research experiences enhances students’ abilities to learn and retain content knowledge and to develop understanding of the emerging core concepts and competencies for biology ( AAAS, 2011a ). Whereas assembling consistent patterns is difficult, given the diversity of approaches, some interesting observations have emerged. First, evidence is emerging that these approaches are introducing more underrepresented minorities to scientific research in the classroom. For example, in Project Laboratory courses, participation by underrepresented minorities was unexpectedly high, 40% (27 of 67 students) across multiple courses (James Morris, personal communication) compared with approximately 15% in the overall student population ( www.brandeis.edu/institutionalresearch/2009pdfs/CDS2009_2010.pdf ). Second, in many of the examples highlighted here, a common ingredient of success is identifying a suitable research problem that uses a set of common tools (which can be taught to the students as a group) but can be subdivided to provide students with individual projects. Often these parts are reassembled to derive more informative conclusions. Well-designed projects also provide extensive opportunities for peer interaction and mutual support. These elements likely contribute to a student's sense of responsibility, of ownership of his or her piece of the project, and of the importance of his or her contribution to a broader picture, both of which may be critical for developing an appreciation for scientific research.

This article has pointed out a few of the promising emerging efforts to integrate research experiences into academic-year classes. This is by no means a comprehensive review. As noted in Vision and Change, no one approach is the best practice for all situations, all faculties, all institutions, or all students. The examples presented here represent approaches that have the potential to be successful practices in diverse settings. More comprehensive reviews of undergraduate research approaches can be found in two interesting publications, both available online. Each of these publications is wide ranging in the disciplines, approaches, and institutions considered. They each include many biology-related examples. One publication, Developing Undergraduate Research and Inquiry ( Healey and Jenkins, 2009 ), has a somewhat global outlook (mostly Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States); the other, a publication from the Council on Undergraduate Research, Developing and Sustaining a Research-Supportive Curriculum ( Karukstis and Elgren, 2007 ), confines itself to work in the United States. Both publications include an extensive discussion of the philosophical and pedagogical basis for the approach presented. For additional examples of class- and laboratory-based undergraduate research in biology the reader is directed to articles in this journal and others concerned with biology education. For example, the January/February issue of the journal, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education (Volume 39, Issue 1) highlights innovative laboratory exercises for undergraduates; four of the five examples feature research-based approaches, one of them concentrating on an introductory biology course that includes biology majors and students majoring in other fields ( Bell, 2011 ).

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We thank Sarah Elgin for her insightful and quick editing. Any opinion, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

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  • Define Your Goals Before You Design a CURE: A Call to Use Backward Design in Planning Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education, Vol. 18, No. 2
  • Course-based undergraduate research experiences in molecular biosciences—patterns, trends, and faculty support 24 July 2017 | FEMS Microbiology Letters, Vol. 364, No. 15
  • Undergraduate research as curriculum 11 July 2017 | Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, Vol. 45, No. 4
  • Measuring and Advancing Experimental Design Ability in an Introductory Course without Altering Existing Lab Curriculum Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education, Vol. 18, No. 1
  • Participation in a Year-Long CURE Embedded into Major Core Genetics and Cellular and Molecular Biology Laboratory Courses Results in Gains in Foundational Biological Concepts and Experimental Design Skills by Novice Undergraduate Researchers Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education, Vol. 18, No. 1
  • Activities in an S-STEM Program To Catalyze Early Entry into Research 13 December 2016 | Journal of Chemical Education, Vol. 94, No. 2
  • CUREs in biochemistry—where we are and where we should go 30 June 2016 | Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, Vol. 45, No. 1
  • Killing two birds with one stone: Model plant systems as a tool to teach the fundamental concepts of gene expression while analyzing biological data Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Vol. 1860, No. 1
  • Loretta Brancaccio-Taras ,
  • Pamela Pape-Lindstrom ,
  • Marcy Peteroy-Kelly ,
  • Karen Aguirre ,
  • Judy Awong-Taylor ,
  • Teri Balser ,
  • Michael J. Cahill ,
  • Regina F. Frey ,
  • Thomas Jack ,
  • Michael Kelrick ,
  • Kate Marley ,
  • Kathryn G. Miller ,
  • Marcy Osgood ,
  • Sandra Romano ,
  • J. Akif Uzman , and
  • Jiuqing Zhao
  • Debra Tomanek, Monitoring Editor
  • Undergraduate students’ development of social, cultural, and human capital in a networked research experience 3 April 2015 | Cultural Studies of Science Education, Vol. 11, No. 4
  • DNA barcoding in diverse educational settings: five case studies 5 September 2016 | Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, Vol. 371, No. 1702
  • Philip Kudish ,
  • Robin Shores ,
  • Alex McClung ,
  • Lisa Smulyan ,
  • Elizabeth A. Vallen , and
  • Kathleen K. Siwicki
  • Pat Marsteller, Monitoring Editor
  • Melissa L. Aikens ,
  • Sona Sadselia ,
  • Keiana Watkins ,
  • Mara Evans ,
  • Lillian T. Eby , and
  • Nancy Pelaez, Monitoring Editor:
  • Stacia E. Rodenbusch ,
  • Paul R. Hernandez ,
  • Sarah L. Simmons , and
  • Jennifer Knight, Monitoring Editor:
  • Implementation and assessment of a yeast orphan gene research project: involving undergraduates in authentic research experiences and progressing our understanding of uncharacterized open reading frames 10 November 2015 | Yeast, Vol. 33, No. 2
  • Christopher Runyon ,
  • Aspen Robinson , and
  • Comparing the Impact of Course-Based and Apprentice-Based Research Experiences in a Life Science Laboratory Curriculum Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education, Vol. 16, No. 2
  • Interdisciplinary Laboratory Course Facilitating Knowledge Integration, Mutualistic Teaming, and Original Discovery 3 August 2015 | Integrative and Comparative Biology, Vol. 55, No. 5
  • Four Perspectives on Flipping the Statistics Classroom: Changing Pedagogy to Enhance Student-Centered Learning 27 October 2015 | PRIMUS, Vol. 25, No. 8
  • Brian A. Couch ,
  • Tanya L. Brown ,
  • Tyler J. Schelpat ,
  • Mark J. Graham , and
  • Jennifer K. Knight
  • Michèle Shuster, Monitoring Editor
  • James E. Russell ,
  • Allison R. D’Costa ,
  • Clay Runck ,
  • David W. Barnes ,
  • Alessandra L. Barrera ,
  • Jennifer Hurst-Kennedy ,
  • Elizabeth B. Sudduth ,
  • Erin L. Quinlan ,
  • Mark Schlueter ,
  • Liliya A. Iskhakova , and
  • Robert Haining
  • Raising interest in STEM education: A research-based learning framework
  • An Exploratory Assessment 1 December 2014 | SAGE Open, Vol. 4, No. 4
  • Thomas D. Wolkow ,
  • Lisa T. Durrenberger ,
  • Michael A. Maynard ,
  • Kylie K. Harrall , and
  • Lisa M. Hines
  • Jeff Schinske, Monitoring Editor
  • Pamela A. Harvey ,
  • Christopher Wall ,
  • Stephen W. Luckey ,
  • Stephen Langer , and
  • Leslie A. Leinwand
  • Jennifer Rhode Ward ,
  • H. David Clarke , and
  • Jonathan L. Horton
  • Diane Ebert-May, Monitoring Editor
  • Annwesa P. Dasgupta ,
  • Trevor R. Anderson , and
  • Nancy Pelaez
  • Erin Dolan, Monitoring Editor
  • Undergraduate Urban Metagenomics Research Module Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education, Vol. 15, No. 1
  • David I. Hanauer , and
  • Michelle Smith, Monitoring Editor
  • Lisa Corwin Auchincloss ,
  • Sandra L. Laursen ,
  • Janet L. Branchaw ,
  • Kevin Eagan ,
  • Mark Graham ,
  • David I. Hanauer ,
  • Gwendolyn Lawrie ,
  • Colleen M. McLinn ,
  • Nancy Pelaez ,
  • Susan Rowland ,
  • Marcy Towns ,
  • Nancy M. Trautmann ,
  • Pratibha Varma-Nelson ,
  • Timothy J. Weston , and
  • Teaching the Nature of Science in a Course in Sustainable Agriculture 20 March 2013 | Natural Sciences Education, Vol. 42, No. 1
  • Supporting Undergraduate Education with Realistic Laboratory Exercises and Research Experience 15 April 2013 | Fisheries, Vol. 38, No. 4
  • Helen L. Vasaly ,
  • Jose Herrera ,
  • Charles H. Sullivan , and
  • Katherine J. Denniston
  • Keeping an Eye on Biology Science, Vol. 339, No. 6118
  • BioCEP 25 May 2012 | Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics, Vol. 21, No. 3

© 2011 C. A. Wei and T. Woodin. CBE—Life Sciences Education © 2011 The American Society for Cell Biology. This article is distributed by The American Society for Cell Biology under license from the author(s). It is available to the public under an Attribution–Noncommercial–Share Alike 3.0 Unported Creative Commons License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0).

About Mentored Research Mentored Research involves working directly with a faculty member on a specific research project. These research experiences will help you deepen your understanding of biological principles while simultaneously building a strong resume. Together these will enable you to be successful, whether your pathway leads you to professional school, graduate programs, government work or even career not directly related to biology.

Getting Involved We strongly encourage all of our majors to get started with mentored research as soon as they are able. The first step is to find what sparks your curiosity and find a professor who shares it. Professors have dedicated a large part of their lives to research, and enjoy few things more than passing their skills and passion to new students. Most professors are extremely busy, so spend some time reading up on their research before you contact them. A little preparation goes a long way, and it pays to be proactive and put forth the initial effort. You can find professors' contact information here .

Funding Not all labs will have immediate funding to support all the interested undergraduates. However, Mentored Research (Bio494R) or Introduction to Mentored Research (Bio194) are excellent ways to get started in a lab. Often a professor will eventually pay students helping them with research. In some rare cases, professors don't provide financial compensation. One remedy is the College Undergraduate Research Awards (CURA). These are grants given exclusively to undergraduate students to help foster and encourage research. More information is available at http://lscura.byu.edu.

Ecology is the study of how living organisms, including humans, interact with each other and their physical environment. Students and faculty in the Biology Department study the ecology of organisms at multiple levels or organization; from individuals, populations, communities, and ecosystems, to the entire biosphere (global ecology). The study of ecology intersects with several closely related fields, including biogeography, biodiversity, evolutionary biology, developmental biology, physiology, genetics, animal behavior, geology, biochemistry, anthropology, and paleontology.

Currently, the Earth is being transformed at a high rate and in unprecedented ways. Human activities are causing widespread habitat loss and degradation, pollution, invasive species, land-use changes, and climate change. Human health and welfare depend on our ability to understand and mitigate these changes. Thus, the study of ecology has become one of the most critical and dynamic fields in all of the biological sciences.

Do we really need more ecologists? Yes! Fundamental principles of ecology are used to inform applications and careers in conservation biology, conservation genetics, wetland management, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, wildlife management, urban planning and human ecology, community health, emerging infectious diseases, epidemiology, and economics.

As the Earth faces mounting pressure to meet the needs of our growing population, people with an understanding of ecological principals and how to apply them to sustain life will wield the most important skills we’ll need to navigate our uncertain future.

Faculty who do research in this area: Byron Adams ; Evolutionary Ecology, Ecosystem Responses to Climate-Driven Environmental Change; Co-Evolution, Soil Ecology, Ecological & Evolutionary Genomics Richard Gill ; Plant Ecology and Global Change, Marine Ecology Blaine Griffen ; Marine Ecology, Behavioral Ecology, Physiological Ecology, Population and Community Ecology Jerry Johnson ; Evolutionary Ecology, Behavioral Ecology Riley Nelson ; Freshwater Ecology Steve Peck ; Theoretical Ecology, Movement Ecology Russell Rader ; Aquatic Ecology

Evolutionary Biology is a sub-discipline in Biology that studies the forces that shape earth's variety of life forms, or biodiversity. There are several different forces or mechanisms that drive evolution. Natural selection is one of these major forces (and perhaps the most well-known), but there are others, including mutation, genetic drift, migration, and nonrandom mating. Collectively, these mechanisms influence how populations of organisms change over time -- how they evolve. One of the central tenets of evolution is that different species share common ancestry. Similar to how a family tree illustrates how individuals are descended from or related to others, the many species that currently live on the earth are related by descent from common ancestors. Evolutionary biology uses morphological (structural features of an organism), ecological, molecular, geographical, and behavioral data to study species relationships and understand what our planet's biodiversity used to be, how it became what it is now, and even make predictions about what it will look like in the future. As the unifying theory in Biology, evolution helps scientists understand more about the living things around us.

Faculty who do research in this area: Byron Adams ; Evolutionary Ecology; Co-Evolution, Soil Ecology, Ecological & Evolutionary Genomics Mark Belk ; Life History Evolution Seth Bybee ; Evolutionary Biology Jamie Jensen ; Evolution Acceptance Jerry Johnson ; Evolutionary Ecology, Life History Evolution Leigh Johnson , Evolution Steve Peck ; Evolution & Ecology Steve Leavitt ; Evolution Clint Whipple ; Evolution and Genetics of Plant Development Michael Whiting ; Bioinformatics Evolution

Education research, broadly, refers to the study of education and learning. Education researchers may focus on individuals, groups/classes, instructors, institutions and their interactions to investigate how they impact formal or informal teaching and learning. Biology education research is a type of discipline-based education research, where education research is conducted in the context of a specific field (its worldview, knowledge, and practices) and by content experts. Faculty and students in the Biology Department use their biology content expertise as well as training in broad learning theories and pedagogy to inform their biology education research. Discipline-based education research can focus on K-12 education, higher education, or informal education, although faculty in the Biology Department primarily focus on higher education.

Biology education research can answer a broad range of questions using a diverse set of methods. Goals of biology education researchers may include testing specific learning theories and constructing new models of effective teaching and learning in biology contexts, developing and testing evidence-based practices to improve biology teaching and learning, investigating the nature of biology expertise in specific sub-disciplines and how that expertise is developed, studying the experiences of marginalized groups in science and proposing practices to broaden participation and success, and more. Researchers may use experimental, quasi-experimental, observational, or design-based methods, and they may use quantitative and/or qualitative analysis techniques depending on the research question.

Biology education research is an exciting field that allows students to learn more about effective teaching and learning in the context of biology topics they are learning about in their coursework. Students also develop scientific skills such as study design, data collection, statistical and/or qualitative analysis, and written and verbal science communication.

Faculty who do research in this area: Liz Bailey ; Gender Gaps in Biology Education, Reciprocal Peer Tutoring, Course Structures/Assessments that Promote Growth Mindset, and Integration of Math and Biology Richard Gill ; Minority Representation in STEM Jamie Jensen ; Reconciliation of Science and Religion, STEM Faculty Development, Science Communication, Best Practices in Pedagogy Riley Nelson ; Science Education Stephen Piccolo ; Bioinformatics Education Josh Stowers ; Secondary Education

At BYU we have professors and researchers working with insects and their relatives in all these ways. BYU offers several courses where insects are the exact focus of the entire class and most classes in biology include them or should include them in the general

Entomology is the study of insects and their relatives. Flies, beetles, lacewings, bees, ants, centipedes, butterflies, dragonflies, and earwigs are all fair game for study. Our best estimates show 1.5 million species have been given names, more than all other animals combined. Related estimates are that only 10% of the species of insects on Earth have been given formal scientific names. So much more basic work needs to be done, if only to name them.

In addition to this taxonomic richness, they play key parts in most ecosystems and their inherent diversity makes them model organisms for all biologists in the study of evolution, genetics, ecology, and physiology. An entomologist is a person who studies these diverse animals using morphological, molecular, and behavioral techniques.

Insects are beautiful and many have been recognized in human culture as sources of both admiration and disdain. Consider the paintings, poetry, scriptures, and windshield smashes you have seen, read, or heard.

But wait, on the positive side insects are extremely important as pollinators of much of our human food and provide direct food for humans in the form of honey. Their entire bodies are eaten and relished in many cultures.

On the negative side insects destroy large proportions of the food we would like to eat with our burgeoning populations. Insects also pass on smaller organisms that cause disease for our own human bodies. The diseases they carry can harm the crops, pets, livestock, forests, lawns, and wildlands we cherish.

Insects can be studied for their own sake. Scientists refer to this as basic research. Outcomes of basic research may or may not yield solutions to human problems: the goal here is increasing overall knowledge. And yet those increases might be used later in solving problems. . .

And of course, we need to study insects to discover their roles in enhancing and harming humans. This is called applied research where an exact insect situation is studied with goals to find ways to either control the bad outcomes or enhance the good ones.

Faculty who do research in this area: Seth Bybee ; Entomology Shawn Clark ; Insect Systematics and Museum Curation Robert Johnson ; Plant-insect interactions Riley Nelson ; Insect Biodiversity Michael Whiting ; Entomology

Plant biologists study the many fascinating aspects of green life! As the only organisms with the ability to take carbon dioxide gas and turn it into carbohydrates, plants form the basis of our diets, provide feed for livestock, fuel our modern amenities (yes, coal and oil are just dead plants), make up the fibers in our clothing, give us lumber for building, and are the source of many pharmaceuticals.

Plant biologists are involved in many interesting areas. Plant taxonomists seek to understand the relationship between plant species and often discover new ones. They often also catalog the natural world to help us understand where specific plants are found. Plant geneticists seek to understand the genetic mechanisms by which plants grow and develop their individual traits. Geneticists are involved in helping us understand the fundamental basis of life, and they also do important work developing healthier, more sustainable crops. Plant biologists’ work often overlaps with ecologists, evolutionary biologists, bioinformaticians, molecular biologists, chemists, agronomists, and farmers.

So, whether you are looking to get your hand dirty, work with cutting edge science, or both, plant biology is a great place to be!

Faculty who do research in this area: Leigh Johnson ; Plant Systematics, Taxonomy & Species Delimination Robert Johnson ; Plant Systematics, Floristics, Plant-insect interactions Clint Whipple ; Evolution and Genetics of Plant Development

The incredible diversity of life on earth is invaluable. It is the key to adaptation to changes, creates resilient ecosystems, provides foundational ecosystem services, can broaden our perspective of the complexities of the world around us, and provides opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. While doing research, students are prepared to (1) understand principles that influence biodiversity, particularly those that create and those that reduce it, (2) document and preserve the diversity of life on the planet, in addition to the ecosystem services they support, and (3) develop a more comprehensive perspective of the world around us by considering the range of all life.

Human activities are presently causing widespread habitat loss and degradation, pollution, invasive species, land-use changes, and climate change. These activities have resulted in what is called the “Sixth Mass Extinction”, with estimated extinction rates at 100 to 1,000 times higher than the background rate. Human health and welfare depend on our ability to understand and mitigate these changes. Beyond human health, protecting earth’s diversity comprises foundational ethical and spiritual dimensions. Thus, the study of biodiversity and conservation has become one of the most critical, relevant, and dynamic fields across all disciplines.

Students and faculty in the Biology Department study biodiversity and conservation at multiple levels - from genetic diversity (the variety of genetic information contained in all organisms) to species diversity (the variety of different living species) to ecosystem diversity (the variety of habitats, the species that live in the habitat, and ecological processes). Here, our study of biodiversity and conservation intersects with several closely related fields, including biogeography, ecology, evolutionary biology, developmental biology, physiology, genetics, geology, biochemistry, and others.

Students are encouraged to engage in original, transformative research. With dedicated, passionate faculty mentors, students can explore topics ranging from documenting diversity to improving conservation and management strategies to developing improved educational practices to promote biodiversity and conservation. As we face mounting pressure to envision new ways to protect, promote, and value earth’s biodiversity, people with an understanding of biodiversity and principals of conservation will wield the most important skills we’ll need to navigate our uncertain future.

Faculty who do research in this area: Byron Adams Mark Belk ; Conservation of Fishes Seth Bybee Shawn Clark Richard Gill Blaine Griffen ; Conservation Biology and Extinction Jerry Johnson Leigh Johnson Robert Johnson Steve Leavitt ; Lichens, Holobionts, Diversity in arid or extreme environments Riley Nelson ; Insect Biodiversity Steve Peck Russell Rader ; Invasion Biology, Restoration, Conservation Clinton Whipple Michael Whiting

Bioinformatics research has several focus areas including (but not limited to) using machine-learning algorithms to clarify relationships between molecular measurements in tumors and cancer-patient outcomes, building software tools to aid biologists in their efforts to analyze biological data, and identifying pedagogical approaches that enable students to learn fundamental bioinformatics and biostatistics skills. Students in bioinformatics labs work on a variety of projects. Some projects are hypothesis driven and focus on analyzing data (typically from public repositories). Other projects are software focused--students write code and create open-source software. Other projects are experiment-driven, especially using classroom interventions to try new teaching techniques.

Faculty who do research in this area: Byron Adams ; Ecological & Evolutionary Genomics Matt Bailey ; Cancer and Genomics Seth Bybee ; Systematics and Bioinformatics Leigh Johnson ; Population Genetics Sam Payne ; Bioinformatics and Proteomics Stephen Piccolo ; Bioinformatics, Genomics, Human Disease (especially cancer), Data Science Perry Ridge ; Bioinformatics Methods, Alzheimer's disease, Genome Biology, Human Genetics John Sproul ; Biodiversity, Repetitive DNA, Rapid Genome Evolution Michael Whiting ; Bioinformatics Evolution Clint Whipple ; Genetics of Plant Development Edward Wilcox ; DNA Sequencing

Adams Lab - Evolutionary Ecology Bybee Lab Gill Lab - Ecology Griffen Lab - Marine Ecology Jensen Lab - Reconciling Evolution Jerry Johnson Lab - Evolutionary Ecology Kauwe Lab Leavitt Lab - Lichenology Nelson Lab Payne Lab - Bioinformatics and Proteomics Piccolo Lab - Bioinformatics Sproul Lab - Evolutionary Biology Whipple Lab - Evolution of Plant Developmental Mechanisms Whiting Lab DNA Sequencing Center

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The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in biology is a liberal arts degree with a concentration in the biological sciences. It is not a pre-professional degree, but it does prepare students for professional programs as well as for advanced degrees in the biological sciences. A major in biology is valuable because of the important role that biology plays in our everyday lives. An understanding of basic biological principles is crucial in interpreting the implications of environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity, the impact of genetic engineering and biotechnology in crop improvement, the treatment of disease, forensic medicine, and legal and ethical issues associated with the above.

View B.S. in Biology

Kristin Miller, Head

Why Study Biology?

  • UGA is committed to fostering effective future leaders for our communities. This degree prepares students for professional programs as well as for advanced degrees in the biological sciences.
  • Career opportunities for a Biology major include jobs in research, health care, environmental management and conservation, education, and much more. 
  • Biology graduates are broadly trained and well prepared for admission into strong graduate programs in the biological sciences and professional schools (medical, dental, and veterinary). They may also directly assume positions in government, education, industry, or certain technical fields

Find out more

Support our Department

Your contributions keep us going! There are numerous ways to give. You can donate or attend our events .

Every dollar given has a direct impact upon our students and faculty. 

Undergraduate Research in Biology

Undergraduates majoring in biology have the opportunity to enhance their learning through direct participation in research and scholarship. At UGA, these opportunities enable undergraduates to participate in ground-breaking research, often as part of a team of graduate students and faculty. In fact, many students can earn academic credit while working under an experienced faculty mentor by taking BIOL 4960R or working directly with the Center for Undergraduate Research Opportunities (CURO). The Biological Sciences Undergraduate Research Fellowship (BSURF) has been established to support undergraduate research opportunities in the Division of Biological Sciences within the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. The Fellowship provides financial assistance to a student who has not had an opportunity to participate in a mentored research experience (paid, volunteer, or for credit) since matriculating to The University of Georgia.

IMAGES

  1. 230 Best Biology Research Topics and Ideas for Students

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  2. Top 240 Biology Research Topics for Students in 2022

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  3. Engaging Biology Research Topics of 2023

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  4. 212 Essential Biology Research Topics That Will Impress You

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  5. 200+ Biology Research Topics for Students

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  6. Engaging Biology Research Topics of 2023

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VIDEO

  1. Top 10 Molecular Biology Research Topics In Cancer Biology Part 2 #cancerresearch #viral #youtube

  2. Research Experience for Undergraduates at UMSI

  3. 12th Biology के सबसे महत्वपूर्ण प्रश्न

  4. Top 10 Trending Biological Research Areas

  5. CIE AS Biology 9700

  6. How To Involve Undergraduates In Research

COMMENTS

  1. 100 Biology Research Topics for Students & Researchers

    Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates. 41. Investigating the effects of pollutants on local plant species. Microbial diversity and ecosystem functioning in a specific habitat. Understanding the genetics of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Impact of urbanization on bird populations and biodiversity. Investigating the role of pheromones ...

  2. 200+ Interesting Biology Research Topics For Students In 2023

    Biotechnology Research Topics For College Students. 21. Investigating the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genome editing. 22. Analyzing the production of biofuels from microorganisms. 23. Studying the application of biotechnology in medicine, such as gene therapy. 24.

  3. 49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics

    She is the winner of the 2015 Stony Brook Fiction Prize, and her short stories have been published in Mid-American Review, Cutbank, Sonora Review, New Orleans Review, and The Collagist, among other magazines. The 49 most interest biology research topics are explored. We also offer links to variety of resources for research topics in biology.

  4. 200+ Biology Research Topics for Students

    A List of Researchable Topics for Biology. A list of researchable topics for biology students starts with several interesting biological topics concerning sociological perspective and ethical issues. The most debatable subjects are abortion, human cloning, genetic researches and the new ethics that should be created to resolve these issues.

  5. 10 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics

    View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home. The 10 Most Interesting Biological Research Fields ; #1, Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, MD ; #2, University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA ; #3, Columbia University.

  6. 70 Fresh Biology Research Topics for College Students

    70 Different Biology Research Topics College Students Would Love. Read on to find 70 of the best biology research topics college students can choose from, for their research papers. These topics offer just the right amount of challenge for college students to put in the effort needed to make a successful paper. They are not just challenging ...

  7. 212 Essential Biology Research Topics That Will Impress You

    212 Unique Biology Research Topics For Students And Researchers. Every student studying something related to biology — botany, marine, animal, medicine, molecular or physical biology, is in an interesting field. It's a subject that explores how animate and inanimate objects relate to themselves. The field unveils the past, the present, and ...

  8. 350+ Biology Research Topics

    Biology is a vast field of study that explores the diverse aspects of life, from the smallest organisms to the complex ecosystems they inhabit. With new discoveries being made every day, the field of biology is constantly evolving and expanding. As a result, there are numerous research topics within biology that can capture the imagination of students, researchers, and professionals alike.

  9. 100 Biology Research Topics Ideas For Students

    To make things as simple as possible for you, we've put together a list of biology research project ideas. You will find 100 topics on various subjects below. Of course, you can use any of our topics for free. However, keep in mind that even though we are doing our best to maintain this list fresh, other students will find it as well.

  10. Top 240 Biology Research Topics for Students in 2022

    Ocean acidification. Stem cell research and therapy. About pseudomonas aeruginosa. Comparative genomics. Molecular and genome evolution. Neurobiological explanation of sleep. Symbiosis in parasites. Modern technology and tools in the research of biology. Change in the behavior of animals due to climate change.

  11. 250+ Best Biology Research Topics for College Students

    These tiny living things consist of microbes like bacteria and fungi. When scientists study microbiology, they find solutions to medical and environmental issues. Here are biology research topics for college students. Discuss resistance in microbes. Discuss the human immune system and the role of bacteria.

  12. 300+ Biology Research Paper Topics for Students

    Biological Psychology Research Paper Topics. Neurotransmitters and Behavior: Examining the Role of Dopamine, Serotonin, and Acetylcholine. Neuroplasticity: Implications for Learning, Memory, and Brain Rehabilitation. Brain Imaging Techniques: Advances in Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and Neuroimaging.

  13. Engaging Biology Research Topics of 2023

    Biology research is a serious analytical task that usually contains scientific findings, debatable questions, and detailed explanations. Students who are studying biology may get an assignment to find some interesting biological topics to do research for essays, term papers, and scientific reports.

  14. Undergraduate Research

    To get academic credit for Biology Department research (which can also count toward Biology major electives and Biology Honors requirements), students should enroll in their faculty member's section of BIO 199. Be sure to discuss the number of units and grading options ahead of time with your faculty research advisor.

  15. Excellent biology research topics you've been searching for!

    200 Distinctive Biology Research Topics to Write a Killer Paper. Biology research topics are crucial for students as they deepen their understanding of the natural world and its intricate processes. Engaging with these topics fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and scientific literacy.

  16. 100+ Interesting Biology Research Paper Topics in 2023

    Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates. We know that finding excellent research topics in biology for undergraduates can be very difficult. We're here to help you with some ideas: A comparative analysis of invasive plants in the US. A behavioral study of migratory birds. Using plants for environmental assessment.

  17. Examples of Undergraduate Research Projects

    Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology; Neuroscience; Teaching Faculty; Research Faculty; Secondary and Adjunct; Emeritus Faculty; Postdoctoral Scholars; Graduate Students; Administration; News and Events. ... Examples of Undergraduate Research Projects Fall 2021 Projects. Student Research Proposal; Whitney Brown: Characterizing the role of ...

  18. Research

    First-year students have the opportunity to experience research through the BIOL 0150 and 0190 course series, including Techniques in Regenerative Medicine, Medicinal Plants, and Phage Hunters.Our new course BIOL 0100, Living Biology at Brown & Beyond, introduces students to the breadth of research underway across The Division and arms students with a suite of skills to help them secure ...

  19. Undergraduate Research

    All research registered through the Biology department is S/U and the number of credits is proportional to the time spent in lab: 40 hours total is equivalent to 1 credit (80 hours = 2 credits, 120 hours = 3 credits). Select your best estimate of credits for the semester. The assigned work is a 3-page summary paper which will be described in ...

  20. Undergraduate Research Opportunities

    Undergraduate research is one of the most exciting and rewarding opportunities for UMBC students. Students can work closely with faculty mentors on a wide range of research topics, including cell biology, neurobiology, genetics, evolution and animal behavior. Undergraduate students who do well at research have the opportunity to apply for research funding, to be […]

  21. Undergraduate Research and Individual Studies

    URAP Undergraduate Research Grants. Due in April. Funding is provided to two undergraduate research grant proposals by the Biology Graduate Student Association (BGSA) and is meant to provide support for research expenses, fieldwork, or travel to conferences. $250.

  22. Undergraduate Research Experiences in Biology: Alternatives to the

    This is the first in a series of articles exploring some of the approaches advocated in the American Association for the Advancement of Science's (AAAS) Vision and Change in Undergraduate Biology Education (AAAS, 2011a), an effort within the biology community to address the needs of undergraduate education in the life sciences (Woodin et al., 2009, 2010) in response to the dramatic and rapid ...

  23. Research

    Biology education research is an exciting field that allows students to learn more about effective teaching and learning in the context of biology topics they are learning about in their coursework. Students also develop scientific skills such as study design, data collection, statistical and/or qualitative analysis, and written and verbal ...

  24. Majors

    Majors. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in biology is a liberal arts degree with a concentration in the biological sciences. It is not a pre-professional degree, but it does prepare students for professional programs as well as for advanced degrees in the biological sciences. A major in biology is valuable because of the ...