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Best colleges for synthetic biology?

I'm looking to major in synthetic biology, which I find super fascinating. What are some of the top colleges that offer strong programs or research opportunities in synthetic biology for undergraduates?

a year ago

Synthetic Biology is an emerging field and is typically a discipline studied at the graduate level or via research opportunities, but there are still various universities that offer strong undergraduate programs or research opportunities for students interested in this area. Here are some colleges known for their solid focus in this field:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Not only does MIT have a strong overall biology program, but it's also particularly recognized for its synthetic biology research. They have a Synthetic Biology Center where undergraduates often participate in research.

2. Stanford University: Stanford also has a renowned biology department, and it's Bioengineering department offers a good foundation for students interested in synthetic biology. They also have the Stanford Bioengineering Synthetic Biology program, which often includes undergraduate researchers.

3. California Institute of Technology (Caltech): The Bioengineering department at Caltech incorporates synthetic and systems biology into their curriculum, and undergraduates have an opportunity to participate in synthetic biology research on campus.

4. University of California, Berkeley: UC Berkeley has a synthetic biology program under its Bioengineering department and offers students a chance to be involved in research through its Synthetic Biology Institute.

Keep in mind, though, that synthetic biology is an interdisciplinary field. You might consider colleges that have strong programs in biology, bioengineering, and computer science, as these fields all contribute to the study of synthetic biology.

Also, do note that many colleges may not offer a dedicated synthetic biology major at the undergraduate level, but you can study this field through coursework, labs, and research opportunities in related departments.

a year ago

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