The rapid advances in biology have necessitated the development of new research and educational approaches to biological thought that incorporate a strong foundation in mathematics, physical and information sciences to prepare students for research that is increasingly interdisciplinary in character. In response to this challenge, the Departments of Biology, Mathematics and Statistics at Texas A&M University will develop undergraduate curricula in Biology and Applied Mathematics that will train biology and mathematics students to speak similar languages about the natural world. Groups of 10 biology and 10 mathematics students will be recruited each year from diverse backgrounds to engage in a new common curriculum that incorporates advanced biological and mathematical training, a common quantitative biology seminar and research training in a biological research program such as biological clocks, mathematical ecology and genomics. The long-term goal of this program is the development of a quantitative biology major within the Department of Biology and a mathematical biology emphasis in the Applied Mathematics major.
This program will permanently transform the curriculum through research mentoring by faculty teams in both mathematical and life sciences from across campus, institutionalize the structure in broader programs by developing new curricula and disseminate this model of education at Texas A&M and to the nation.
