About

IQ Biology students spend their first year in IQ Biology rotating through three different labs in two or more disciplines. Lab rotations not only build practical skills, but they introduce new ideas and help to identify a faculty advisor. Following these rotations, students partake in a collabortive team reserach project that will expose them to the team science aspect of interdisciplinarity.

In addition to their departmental requirements, IQ Biology students participate in a variety of coursework during the first year to build quantitative skills and address gaps in knowledge. Courses include:

• Bioinformatics and Genomics or Quantitative Optical Imaging
• Biologically-Inspired Multi-agent Systems
• Statistical Collaboration or Statistical and Computational Analysis of the Human Genome
• Responsible Conduct of Research
• Gap-Filling Courses

For more information, see our course descriptions

All first year students are required to attend Idea Exchanges which provide an opportunity to work on team projects, talk about research topics and ideas, hold workshops, and learn about new discoveries in quantitative biology

Bootcamp offers an opportunity for students to gain comfort and confidence working with collaborators across disciplines. The short courses and seminars also provide foundational knowledge that will help prepare students for their upcoming coursework.

IQ Biology places a heavy focus on professional development by building a base of experience and a professional network through internships. From research internships in biotech companies or national labs to business internships or curriculum development, IQ Biology offers many ways to customize your experience.

All IQ Biology students are required to participate in at least one pre-approved outreach activity before graduation. There are many wonderful avenues for outreach at CU-Boulder, here are some examples: Integrating STEM Education (iSTEM), Physics Education Technology (PhET), Integrated Teaching and Learning Laboratory (ITLL)
Other outreach opportunities are available at CU

There are opportunities for students to teach in the IQ Biology core courses if you are interested or your program requires it.

A biennial symposium is organized and hosted by IQ Biology students to showcase the interdisciplinary work stemming from the program and across campus. See the 2019 Symposium Program or the 2017 Symposium Program.