Interested in Biology? Explore the diversity of life with CEED!
The Center for Ecological and Evolutionary Dynamics (CEED) brings together faculty, postdoctoral scholars, graduate and undergraduate students, staff, and volunteers who share a common goal: discovering the principles that shape the diversity of life on Earth.
Our questions span every level of biology—from DNA and the proteins it encodes to metabolism, individual traits, populations, and species that have diverged over countless generations. CEED members may specialize in different areas, but we are united by a desire to understand how biological diversity arises, functions, and changes over time.
Opportunities for Undergraduates
Many USC undergraduates interested in biology follow a pre-medical path. CEED offers another way to explore the life sciences—through research, teaching, and the study of biodiversity.
Students interested in ecology and evolutionary biology can pursue careers in:
- Academia and research
- Education
- Government agencies
- Conservation organizations
- Biotechnology and other industries
Students following a pre-medical path are also welcome. Ecological and evolutionary thinking provides a valuable foundation for understanding genetics, disease, immunity, human variation, and many other areas of medicine.
How to Get Involved
The easiest way to get involved is simply to attend a CEED seminar. Our seminars are held every two weeks and are open to undergraduates. CEED is a friendly, welcoming community, and no previous research experience is required.
See the seminar link above for the current schedule.
If you have questions or would like help finding opportunities, contact
Biology Major Emphases
The USC BISC major offers four emphases. Two provide specialized training in areas closely connected to CEED, and your chosen emphasis is reflected on your diploma:
CEED-Related Courses
USC undergraduates interested in ecology, evolution, biodiversity, and organismal biology may want to consider the following courses:
BISC 313: Evolution and Population Genetics
Offered in spring
Explore the history of evolutionary thought, the molecular basis of evolution, the dynamics of genes in populations, speciation, macroevolution, and broad patterns of evolutionary change.
BISC 315L: Introduction to Ecology
Offered in fall
An introduction to the major areas of ecology, including the ecology of individuals, physiological and behavioral ecology, population ecology, community ecology, and ecosystem ecology. A three-hour weekly laboratory gives students hands-on experience designing ecological studies and collecting, analyzing, and interpreting real-world data.
BISC 363: Mammalogy
Offered in spring
A classic organismal biology course exploring the ecology and evolution of mammals, with particular emphasis on the evolution of mating and reproduction. The course includes a field trip to the desert, and laboratory sessions take place behind the scenes at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, directly across from USC.
BISC 364L: Advanced Techniques in Field Mammalogy
Spring Maymester
Spend four weeks camping at four biological reserves across California while learning how scientists document biodiversity. Students gain hands-on experience safely trapping and releasing mammals and are introduced to tools used in spatial science.
BISC 404L: Ecology and Biodiversity
Offered in spring
Explore community ecology, macroecology, biodiversity, ecosystem function, and current debates about changes in biodiversity. The course also introduces ecological theory, modeling, data management, and analysis.
BISC 460: Seminar in Marine and Environmental Biology
Offered in fall
A seminar-based capstone course centered on CEED seminars. Students examine contemporary research and strengthen their ability to evaluate and communicate science in writing and through discussion—skills that are essential in ecology and evolutionary biology, as well as in many other careers.
BISC 490: Independent Student Research
BISC 490 allows students to earn academic credit while participating in an independent research project. The best way to begin is to identify laboratories doing research that interests you and contact them directly.
If you would like help finding a research laboratory, contact Matt Dean at matthew.dean@usc.edu.