Department of Biology

Antecedent Departments

Life Sciences (1968–1971)
Life and Behavioral Sciences (1971–1975)
Chemistry and Biological Sciences (1975–1980)
Biology (1980–Present)

Department Heads 1968–1975 Col Peter B. Carter 1975–1979 Col Robert W. Lamb 1979–1980 Lt Col David W. Seegmiller 1980–1992 Col Orwyn Sampson 1992–1993 Col William J. Carney 1993–2000 Col Ronald D. Reed 2000–2002 Col James S. Kent 2002–2005 Col Reed 2005–2006 Col Paul W. Fisher 2006–2012 Col John L. Putnam 2012–2013 Dr David Westmoreland 2013–2016 Col Putnam 2016– Col Steven C.M. Hasstedt		Permanent Professors Pete Carter Bob Lamb   O Sampson Ron Reed   John Putnam Steve Hasstedt

The Department Today:

The Department of Biology promotes the development of the cadet’s scientific talents through a carefully planned program of academic instruction, practical laboratory experience, and individual research projects. The Biology major provides a multidisciplinary approach to the study of human performance in air and space, evolution, exercise, biomechanics, ecology, environmental science, and cutting-edge cell and genetic engineering. Some cadets pursue specialized areas of interest such as aviation and flight, human factors in aviation and space, athletics/sports performance, ecology, cell and molecular biology, or professional or advanced degree preparation for careers in the health professions or the Biomedical Science Corps.

Curriculum:

The department offers 20 courses in Biology.
    Core Courses: 
         Biology 215. Introductory Biology with Laboratory (Basic Science Option)
         Biology 345. Aerospace Physiology (Advanced STEM Choice)
         Biology 370. Human Nutrition (Advanced STEM Choice)
    Major:  Biology

Noteworthy:

The department boasts numerous facilities and learning resources including a molecular biology lab, aerospace physiology lab, genetics lab, cadaver lab, and greenhouse. The Life Sciences Research Center supports cadet and faculty research in a broad range of biological sciences topics. Funded by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research and the Air Force Surgeon General, the center’s three main research thrusts are biomedical, biosystems, and human health and performance.