News in brief

Three students working in a research lab.
Laboratory courses allow students to develop skills critical to careers in academic, clinical, and pharmaceutical sciences.  Photo by Anna Powell Teeter

New degree in molecular life sciences

Starting in the fall semester, we’re offering an interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Life Sciences jointly with the IU Bloomington Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry.

"The MLS degree program was created with the pre-professional in mind,” said Justin Kumar, professor of biology and GCDB section associate chair who helped design the new program. “The MLS degree will prepare students for graduate work—whether they choose to pursue medical school or a Ph.D. in the life sciences.”

For the first two years, students will focus on a selection of interdisciplinary courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Math. In their junior year, they’ll select a preferred concentration: Molecular and Structural Biology or Developmental and Cellular Biology. We’ve designed several 400-level Molecular Life Sciences courses that provide in-depth understanding of important cellular processes. These courses are open to all eligible students, not just MLS majors.

Academic advisor receives prestigious award

Libby Tilghman.
Libby Tilghman. Courtesy photo

Undergraduate advisor Libby Tilghman’s service to our students has been recognized by IU’s Bloomington Academic Advisors Council. The BAAC presented Tilghman with its 2018 Terri Nation Outstanding Academic Advisor Award. The award is given to advisors who have made exceptional achievements.

Tilghman has been advising Biology, Microbiology, and Animal Behavior undergraduates for five years. She loves facilitating a clear understanding of the “nuts and bolts” of degree requirements, so that the students are free to focus on their courses and to ultimately discover and follow their passions. She also credits her colleagues for making her job so rewarding. “They’re a joy to work with,” says Libby. “They’re dedicated to the students as well as supportive of each other.”