Department of Biology Resources + Information: biology.colostate.edu/resources-guidelines/

Events, Dates, + Deadlines: biology.colostate.edu/dates-deadlines/

Main Office Contact Information: Monday – Friday | 7:30am – 4:30pm | CNS-Bio_Info@colostate.edu | 970-491-7011

Summer 2025 Office Hours: May 19th – August 22nd | Monday – Thursday| 8:30am – 4:00pm | Fridays – Closed

A transparent-background graphic with a hand holding a megaphone in the top left. Gold text on a dark green banner reads “JOIN OUR TEAM!” and large green text below says “WE’RE HIRING.” The design is accented with teal, orange, and blue lines.
Growing Food and Harvesting Sunlight
CSU Biology alum and former grad student and researcher Matt Sturchio, lead author of a new study, explores how U.S. croplands can also serve as solar energy sites.
Biology’s Dr. Melinda Smith Among CSU’s 2025 Celebrate! Award Honorees for Excellence in Research
Colorado State University recognizes outstanding contributions across campus, including Dr. Smith’s leadership in ecological research and dedication to advancing scientific understanding.
CSU’s Anping Chen Among Leaders of New Global Research Teams Tackling Sustainability Challenges
Biology research scientist Dr. Anping Chen joins interdisciplinary faculty across CSU in the 2025–2027 Global Challenges initiative, addressing climate impacts on forest and water systems in the American West.
CSU Professors Smith and Knapp Help Uncover Greater Drought Vulnerability in Eurasian Grasslands
In a global study published in Nature, Biology Professors Dr. Melinda Smith and Dr. Alan Knapp reveal that lower biodiversity and dominant grass types make Eurasian grasslands more drought-sensitive than those in North America.
Michael Antolin Retires After Leading CSU Biology with Vision and Dedication
Former Department Chair Michael Antolin concludes a distinguished career at Colorado State University, where he advanced integrative biology and departmental growth through years of research, mentorship, and leadership.
Dr. Katheryn Wilsterman Wins 2025 Bartholomew Award for Groundbreaking Research in Reproductive Physiology and Adaptation
CSU biologist honored by SICB for her integrative work on how reproductive traits shape species’ responses to diverse environments.
Crab Lab Pioneer Retires
Professor Donald Mykles concludes 40-year career with the Biology Department at Colorado State University.

Welcome to the Department of Biology at Colorado State University.

Our internationally-recognized research and education programs focus on organisms, diving into mechanistic detail about how they work, or stepping back to consider how they interact with each other and with their environment.  From cells to the biosphere, we make discoveries about fundamental questions in Biology, and we use this new knowledge to make the world a better place.  CSU Biology is a place where everyone is welcome to indulge their curiosity about the living world.

Name & Days of the Week

Employee

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Aaron Jacobs Campus Campus Campus Remote Remote
Abbie Reade Campus Campus Campus Remote Campus
Alpana Damle Campus Campus Remote Campus Campus
Amy Olson Campus Campus Remote Remote
Ayo Garner Campus Remote Campus Remote Campus until noon
Dorothy Ramirez Remote Campus Campus Campus Remote
Elizabeth Saunders Remote Campus Campus Remote Campus
Julie Wenzel Campus Campus Campus Campus Remote
Kristin Anderson Remote Campus Remote Campus Campus
Liz Hysen Campus Remote Campus Campus Remote
Maddie Ford Campus Campus Campus Remote Remote
Maggie Weir Remote Campus Campus Campus Remote
Maylou Flores Campus Campus Remote Campus Remote
Ren Hellmuth Campus Campus Campus Remote Campus
Shivon Costin Campus Campus Remote Campus Remote
Sydney Spiller Remote Campus Campus AM
Remote PM
Campus Remote AM
Campus PM
Tyler Heyne Campus Remote Campus Remote Campus

Office Hours

A colorful summer-themed flyer with tropical leaves, flowers, and beach items announces the Biology Main Office Summer Hours at Colorado State University. The office is open Monday–Thursday, 8:30 AM–4:00 PM, from May 19 to August 8. It is closed on Fridays, with staff working remotely. Faculty and lab staff can access the office with CSU ID cards. For building emergencies, contact Facilities Management at (970) 491-0077. A small note mentions staff schedules may vary during the break. The flyer features playful summer graphics like sunglasses, a beach ball, starfish, and flowers.

Student Highlights

A Day in the Life of Biology Student An-Ping Yu

Marissa Martinez’s stay-curious energy earned her a feature in @natgeotv’s new show, “Science Fair: The Series,” and propelled her all the way to the International Science and Engineering Fair, securing her a full-ride scholarship through the @boettcherfdn to study biology right here at @CSUNaturalSciences 📚🥼

Catch #ScienceFairTheSeries on @hulu and @disneyplus, out now 📺 👀

The trailerThe storyThe feature

Marissa Martinez - NatGeo's "Science Fair: The Series"

“Biology graduate student promotes importance of self in lab”

by Allie Ruckman, featuring Mel Morado

“Recognizing and addressing oppression in the sciences”

by Allie Ruckman, featuring Marina Rodriguez, Amir Alayoubi, and Beth Wittmann

“Q&A with Boettcher Scholar and International Science and Engineering Fair participant”

by Allie Ruckman, featuring Marissa Martinez

“Amphibian Week Highlights Critical Conservation Research at CSU”

by Elizabeth Rylance, featuring grad student, Katherine Stroh, & Biology professors, Chris Funk, and Rachel Mueller

Program Highlights

The Department of Biology houses the Biology Teaching Collections. The program maintains a large collection of specimens that we use in our classes. There are over 13,000 specimens, including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, representatives of most invertebrate groups, and plants of all kinds. This collection has been an important part of instruction for the past century and is being reorganized to help better serve this purpose through volunteers.

Interested in volunteering or seeing the collections? Contact Tanya Dewey (tdewey@rams.colostate.edu) or Jennifer Brady (jbrady94@rams.colostate.edu) for more information on getting involved. This program showcases the amazing volunteers, graduate students and professors who are part of keeping this collection thriving. Joining as a volunteer includes learning what we do to keep this place running while also discussing what the collections are all about.

Watch this video to learn more about our Teaching Collections!

Video Credits

Music: Summer Somewhere In Cuba | Artist: Cumbia Deli | Videography: CSU Natural Sciences | YouTube: col.st/Ywk5i

Course Offerings

Course Snapshots

LIFE 102 – Attributes of Living Systems

This course is an introductory biology course that works well for both incoming Freshmen and outgoing Seniors. It not only provides a basis for more-advanced courses in life sciences, but also serves as an effective review for more-advanced students.

BZ223 – Plant Identification

With the ecological and environmental issues we are facing as a society, plant Identification skills are more important than ever. Learn how to identify flowering plants in a way that will serve you no matter where you live/work in the future!

BZ311 – Developmental Biology

The details of life are important. Join us in developmental biology, where we discuss how organisms form.

BZ339 Section 001 – Field Methods in Grassland Ecosystem Ecology

Develop field skills used in research on challenges facing grassland ecosystems in this intensive summer course. You will come away with perspectives on the structure of research and the process of collecting data in the field.

BZ339 Section 002 – Methods in Habitat and Species Diversity Assessment

This course will explore the diverse field methods of assessing habitat types and species diversity by combining classroom learning and practical applications of field research in the great outdoors. Students will apply these techniques at designated field sites in and around Fort Collins, where they will evaluate habitat characteristics and the associated flora and fauna. Additionally, students will develop their own research proposals, drawing from their field experiences to design meaningful ecological studies. This course offers a rigorous yet engaging introduction to the many ways scientists observe and conduct research on animals and plants in their natural environments.

BZ350-801 – Molecular & General Genetics

Because this course is online and asynchronous, it is a great option for students who have a summer job or internship and can’t take an in person class.

Course Snapshots

LIFE 102 – Attributes of Living Systems

This course is an introductory biology course that works well for both incoming Freshmen and outgoing Seniors. It not only provides a basis for more-advanced courses in life sciences, but also serves as an effective review for more-advanced students.

BZ220 – Introduction to Evolution

NEW Online! Learn how to communicate science to your friends, family, and the wider society in ways that make it feel exciting and important.

BZ223 – Plant Identification

With the ecological and environmental issues we are facing as a society, plant Identification skills are more important than ever. Learn how to identify flowering plants in a way that will serve you no matter where you live/work in the future!

BZ300 – Animal Behavior

For anyone interested in understanding how and why animals do what they do!

BZ544 – Effective Scientific Presentations

Learn how to communicate science to your friends, family, and the wider society in ways that make it feel exciting and important.

BZ572 – Phytoremediation

Our planet faces numerous environmental risks stemming from industrial development, including mining, gas emissions, chemical fertilizers, pesticide applications, and municipal waste generation. The accumulation of these contaminants in soil, water, and air harms plants, animals, humans, and the environment. Various strategies, such as chemical-based, physicochemical, and biological methods, have been employed to remediate these pollutants. Among these, the biological methods, especially phytoremediation, are the most accepted strategy because they are energy efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. It is important to understand the sources of different pollutants and how we can reduce their accumulation at both the generation and decontamination levels. In this course, we will cover the different types of pollutants and their sources, the various strategies to remediate them, and the pros and cons of each approach with emphasis on bioremediation. This limited seats, 3-credit course will provide each student with the opportunity to practice searching databases, preparing reports or reviews, creating presentations, presenting to a group, and participating in scientific discussions in addition to acquiring knowledge about the course subject. Graduate and undergraduate students from biology, horticulture, soil and crop science, forestry, ecology, chemistry, and engineering will benefit from this course.

Course Snapshots

LIFE 102 – Attributes of Living Systems

This course is an introductory biology course that works well for both incoming Freshmen and outgoing Seniors. It not only provides a basis for more-advanced courses in life sciences, but also serves as an effective review for more-advanced students.

BZ320 – Biogeographic Approaches to Conservation

This is an opportunity to learn about the dynamic field of conservation biogeography!

BZ415 – Marine Biology

This course explores marine life from the microscopic single cell organisms to the largest whales and describes how they are all connected.

BZ440 – Plant Physiology

Who is this course for?

  • Students who are interested in understanding various facets of plant functions at cellular, organellar and whole plant level during its life time.
  • Students who also want to learn various physiological aspects at the molecular level and how these processes regulate the plants response to changing environment conditions which in turn influences their growth and productivity.
  • The main target groups are upper-division undergraduate students with backgrounds/career interests in Biology, Horticulture, Soil and Crop Science, Forestry, Rangeland Ecology, and related areas. Graduate students conducting research in similar fields are also welcome.
  • Those students who want to pursue plant research related jobs in private sector, federal and state institutions are encouraged to enroll as this course fulfils their basic requirements.
BZ460 – Genome Evolution

For upper-level undergraduates interested in the synthesis and evolutionary biology and molecular biology.

Our Education Abroad programs are as diverse as they are enticing! Check out our programs and learn more about these incredible opportunities here: CSU | Education Abroad | Recommended CNS Programs Abroad

Learn more about CSU’s Education Abroad Programs here: CSU | Education Abroad

Speak with an advisor to see if these programs are right for you!: CSU | Biology | Advising

Application Deadlines

Behavior and Biology of African Mammals in Kenya: Summer Break – APPLY
  • Early Deadline: December 1st
  • Final Deadline: February 15th
Dolphin Behavior & Physiology in Honduras: Winter & Summer Break – APPLY
  • Winter 2025
    • Priority Deadline: May 1st
    • Final Deadline: September 15th
  • Summer 2025
    • Priority Deadline: December 1st
    • Final Deadline: March 30th
Ecology, Evolution, & Conservation of Biodiversity in Ecuador: Winter Break – APPLY
  • Priority Deadline: May 1st
  • Final Deadline: September 15th
Field Biology & Behavior of Primates in Madagascar: Summer Break – APPLY
  • Priority Deadline: December 1st
  • Final Deadline: March 23rd
First Year Seminar Abroad: Biology in Australia: August – APPLY
  • Priority Deadline: April 15th
  • Final Deadline: May 6th
Marine Biology in Mexico: Fall Break – APPLY
  • Early Deadline: March 1st
  • Final Deadline: April 15th

Class Highlights

Field Mammalogy (BZ 340)

A successful specimen prep day! These ground squirrels are ready to be used for instruction in BZ330: Mammalogy. Keep an eye out for these specimens in our teaching collection.

Learn more about specimen prep here: YouTube | Museum Prep 101

Warning: The linked video explains the process of preparing museum specimens. The content may be considered graphic by some.

“Pursuing new educational frontiers” – by Allie Ruckman, Elements

A brand-new course in the Department of Biology, Behavior and Biology of African Mammals, brought 16 students to Kenya summer 2023 to practice fieldwork and observational skills in an environment very unlike that of Northern Colorado.

News

Crab Lab offers gateway into marine biology-type research in landlocked Colorado

Head graduated with a Ph.D. from the Department of Biology after studying the complicated life cycle process and genetics of molting crabs.

New research shows how solar arrays can aid grasslands during drought

New research from Colorado State University and Cornell University shows that the presence of solar panels in Colorado’s grasslands may reduce water stress, improve soil moisture levels and – particularly during dry years – increase plant growth by about 20% or more compared to open fields.

Biology researcher’s paper explores agriculture practices, solar energy and photovoltaic systems

Matt Sturchio, a former graduate student and researcher in the Department of Biology, is the first author on a new paper in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences assessing the relationships between agriculture practices in the U.S. and solar energy and photovoltaic systems. 

Professor Donald Mykles retiring after 40 years at Colorado State University, running Crab Lab  

Mykles is set to retire from CSU this summer after teaching in the Department of Biology for 40 years. Under his leadership, the “Crab Lab” was one of the largest research groups on campus – frequently hosting many undergrads for their first projects while also supporting numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.  

Calendar

Features

Seminars

Find Us

DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY

Colorado State University
Biology Building, Room 111

1878 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, CO 80523

Telephone: 970-491-7011
Fax: 970-491-0649
Email: CNS-Bio_Info@colostate.edu