Knowledge in the life
sciences-biology and psychology is expanding at a greater rate
than at any time in history. Researchers are uncovering the
blueprints of life by unraveling the DNA sequences of baker's
yeast, disease-causing microbes, fruit flies; and, maybe shortly
after the new millennium begins, humans.
Understanding of the
biological and environmental foundations of human behavior has
also expanded enormously during the last decade of the 20th
century, and the mind-body connection is now being combined at
WVU through the construction of the Life Sciences Building.
An innovative,
technologically advanced facility, including classrooms,
laboratories, a greenhouse, a mental health clinic, faculty
offices, and common areas, the Life Sciences Building will
provides students, professors, and staff members in two core
departments of the Eberly College, with facilities that meet
their instructional, research, and public service missions of
the 21st century. These two departments serve the largest
numbers of majors within the college and provide numerous
courses for undergraduates throughout the university.
The departments of biology
and psychology are among the most prestigious units in the
university, providing instruction and pursuing research in
molecular and cellular biology, environmental biology, human
development, behavioral analysis, and clinical psychology. These
units have outstanding records of conducting research for the
benefit of local, state, national, and international agencies,
and in preparing undergraduate students for careers directly
after graduation, for acceptance into graduate and professional
programs in medicine, dentistry, clinical psychology, and law,
and for advanced disciplinary study in preparation for academic
and other research-oriented careers. Both units also have highly
competitive graduate programs.
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