Department of Biological and Environmental Science
World-class research and education in biological and environmental sciences at all levels of the biological hierarchy, from molecular and cellular to individuals, communities and ecosystems. In addition to understanding the fundamentals of natural phenomena, research knowledge is used to find ways to use natural resources more sustainably and tools to improve the health and well-being and the environment, thus building a sustainable society. The Department is an active and visible operator both regionally and nationally and is internationally in high demand as a cooperation partner.
We aim to educate experts specialised in one of two sub-fields: studies in aquatic science focus on environmental and biological factors and processes that determine the characteristics and ecosystem services of inland waters and sustainable use of their renewable natural resources. Studies in ecology and evolutionary biology take a broad perspective from genes to ecosystems, covering both theory and practical applications. After completing a Master’s degree, it is possible to continue to study for licentiate degree or doctoral degree.
Research at the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences aims to understand the basic phenomena of living nature, the impact of human activities on nature and the sustainable use of natural resources, and to develop ways to reduce the adverse effects of human activities on the environment. For example, in biological nanoscience aims at understanding the functions of microbes and proteins at the nanoscale, as well as finding practical applications in biotechnology and medicine. Evolutionary research uses experimental approach within an ecologically realistic setting using research model taxa from viruses to vertebrate to understand the basic phenomena of nature, especially interactions that affect living organisms and their population properties and adaptations to a changing environs. The research of the natural resources and environment is interested in the functioning of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, together with the use and conservation of natural resources.
