Which colleges are best for research biology?

I'm interested in studying research biology and want to know which colleges are top-rated for this major. Any recommendations or experiences would be helpful as I start to plan my college list.

There are several colleges renowned for their biology programs, but if you're specifically interested in research, there are some that stand out even more.

1. Harvard University: Not only is it one of the best universities globally, but Harvard's Molecular and Cell Biology department offers opportunities to collaborate on faculty research projects and engage in independent research.

2. Stanford University: Known for its cutting-edge research in the sciences, Stanford offers research opportunities across multiple disciplines in biology, including Human Biology, Organismal Biology, Ecology and Evolution, and Biomolecular Sciences.

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Offers a unique Biology Research Apprentice Program that provides undergraduates with full-time research experience.

4. University of California - Berkeley: UC Berkeley has a strong emphasis on research and offers several research opportunities in biology, which could be a great fit for your interests.

5. Johns Hopkins University: Its BioREU program offers research opportunities to both its students and undergraduates from other U.S. institutions.

These are just some examples, and indeed there are many more. When looking at potential colleges, it's important to consider additional factors beyond just the reputation of the program, such as access to lab equipment, faculty-student mentoring relationships, potential for hands-on experience, etc. It's also valuable to look at where students go after graduation: do they typically continue to get PhDs, work in industry, or take other paths? Research these elements and reach out to current students or faculty if possible to get a sense of the culture of research at the institutions you're considering.