Research is at the core of who we are as a department and we are committed to preparing our students for careers in research, medicine, and the sciences by engaging them in our own active research projects, both in independent studies and in classroom laboratory work. Active involvement in the real process of science teaches students to think critically and apply what they have learned across disciplines to solve novel problems — skills that are essential to every career, as well as to being engaged citizens.
This research is done in the context of our shared Christian faith. This faith influences our dialogs on faith and science issues, and is core to why we chose to be scientists working as educators--preparing students to most effectively engage and resolve problems to help those in need.
To our students: we feel blessed with the opportunity to spend four years of your life focused on your education. This comes with a heavy responsibility to use what you learn to help others. Whether your career takes you into the medical field, research science, or some other biology-related field, you will find both the technical expertise and the caring guidance from the faculty at SPU that will allow you to hone your talents and apply them in service to the larger world — while at SPU and long after you leave.
Cara Wall-Scheffler and Jenny Tenlen
Co-Chairs, Department of Biology