We take a holistic approach to microbiology education, providing opportunities for fieldwork, independent projects, and a curiosity-based learning model. This sets us apart from many other programs that focus almost entirely on clinical microbiology in medical schools. We give you the opportunity to explore hands-on learning in a real-life setting, making you highly sought after in the job market.
Of the 30 R1 research universities in the northeastern U.S., we are one of five that focuses on environmental microbiology and one of two that offers an applied molecular biotechnology training program.
How to Get Undergraduate Research Experience
Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE)
CUREs expose undergraduates to the full range of experiences associated with hands-on research. These courses put students in control of the process of discovery and data-driven research.
- The first-year SEA-PHAGES course (BIOLOGY 153) is a requirement for Microbiology majors.
- Our introductory microbiology laboratory (MICROBIO 312) includes the Tiny Earth CURE.
- SEA-GENES (MICROBIO 565) is an advanced molecular genetics laboratory that builds on discoveries students made in SEA-PHAGES.
Independent Study
Our most popular option, this course taken during the semester or over the summer provides academic credit and is arranged on an individual basis with a faculty member.
Research Experience for Undergraduate Program
Available at UMass Amherst and other universities, this program supports active research participation in any of the areas funded by the National Science foundation.
CNS Career and Professional Development Center
CNS is committed to helping students gain experiential learning opportunities and professional training to prepare for meaningful careers.
A Growing Demand
Recent advancements and events related to the COVID-19 pandemic have created a tremendous demand in these three core areas that will continue to grow over the next decade. Microbiology is well positioned to maintain its strength and expand into emergent and transdisciplinary areas of research such as novel drug targets and therapeutic candidates.
The university’s proximity to Boston, arguably the nation’s hub of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, allows us to cultivate industrial and health care relationships, working with career services and public-private partnerships to provide specialized training, internships, and professional development opportunities.
Undergraduates with research experience have presented their results at national and regional microbiology meetings and have had their results published in recognized scientific journals, earning significant accomplishments which have set them up for success in the industry, as well as secured admission to top-notch graduate programs at schools such as Harvard, Cornell, Wisconsin, and Penn.
Our Labs
Our laboratory courses use a curiosity-based learning model that allows you to practice concepts and skills that are in step with industry and health care needs. You’ll work directly on specific projects run by faculty members who oversee a laboratory, and participate as part of a team with other undergraduates and graduate students. For many, much of what is presented in the classroom suddenly comes alive, bringing new relevance to courses and providing a fresh source of comprehension and motivation.