About the College of Biological Science

Our College

The College of Biological Science is a globally recognized academic faculty with a mission to expand the understanding of life, from DNA to cells to complex ecosystems. It produces intrepid and interdisciplinary research in a student-centred learning environment that encourages and promotes a comprehensive understanding of the systems that govern life. CBS's degree programs are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional work, equipping students with the practical, hands-on skills and experience needed to succeed in their careers. Our unique constellation of infrastructure, institutes, facilities and research stations enable interdisciplinary partnerships and collaboration that lead to impactful research, scholarship and teaching opportunities.

CBS houses 100 full-time faculty and 50 full-time staff and attains approximately $24M in funding for basic and applied research every year. The college offers 12 undergraduate and 13 graduate degree programs across three departments: Human Health Sciences, Integrative Biology, and Molecular and Cellular Biology. Nearly 6,000 undergraduate students, 400 graduate students, and many thousands of engaged alumni are members of the vibrant CBS community.

Research Areas

CBS faculty conduct research in a wide range of fields, from evolutionary biology to neurological disease.

Our Strategic Priorities

• Increase our national and global impact through research excellence
• Provide world-class post-graduate training that supports diverse and impactful career paths
• Enhance impactful and in-demand academic programs
• Offer an outstanding inclusive and accessible learning experience
• Produce sought-after and fulfilled graduates
• Strengthen a sense of community working towards a common purpose
• Optimize existing space

Access the College of Biological Science Strategic Plan: 2024-2029 webpage and full PDF. 

Our Distinct Identity

CBS's identity in the regional and global academic landscape is powered by several core elements:

• Biology: Focus on biology as an overarching discipline to understand, integrate and relate the micro and the macro systems that govern life
• Impactful research: Intrepid and interdisciplinary discovery research in biology that has broad translational impact beyond the laboratory, including the creation of novel intellectual property, change in policy and standards, and inclusion in various teaching media
• Integrative and student-centred education: Integration of teaching and research in biology education, where experiential learning is coupled with a comprehensive foundation in science
• Collaboration: Inherent competence for working together both internally and with external stakeholders
• Community: A supportive, diverse, inclusive and engaged environment
• Continued reach for excellence: An ever-present aspiration to achieve excellence in all aspects of its mission.