At BHSU, research isn’t just for graduate students—it’s a core part of your undergraduate
experience. Our faculty are actively engaged in diverse research projects year-round,
and they welcome students to join them in exploring new discoveries.
As a Biology major, you can:
- Collaborate with Faculty Mentors – Work alongside professors on projects that match your interests.
- Access Cutting-Edge Facilities – Utilize resources like WestCore and the Center for the Conservation of Biological
Resources for genetics and genomics research.
- Present Your Work – Share your findings at regional and national conferences, and even publish in scientific
journals.
Getting involved is simple: connect with a faculty member whose research aligns with
your interests and start planning your project.
Get involved, build connections, and develop leadership skills through BHSU’s active
student organizations for Biology majors and STEM enthusiasts:
American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB)
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is a nonprofit professional
society that builds and empowers a broad community of molecular life scientists to
advance discovery.
Health Science Student Organization (HSSO)
Dedicated to students pursuing careers in medicine and healthcare, HSSO offers educational
resources, internship opportunities, social programs, community service projects,
and guest speakers to help you prepare for your future.
Environmental Sustainability Student Organization (ESSO)
Passionate about protecting the planet? ESSO focuses on conservation and environmental
issues through community engagement, education, and leadership opportunities. Members
gain hands-on experience while making a difference.
Physical Science Club
Enhance your professional and leadership skills while networking with peers in science
fields. Participate in campus outreach, educational programs, social events, and outdoor
adventures throughout the Black Hills.
Women in STEM
Empowering women to succeed in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,
this organization provides mentorship, community, and outreach opportunities. Get
involved in local and national initiatives and inspire the next generation of women
in STEM.
Black Hills State University’s College of Natural & Behavioral Sciences is a proud
founding partner of the South Dakota IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (SD INBRE). Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), SD INBRE’s mission
is to grow and sustain biomedical research across South Dakota.
SD INBRE provides access to cutting-edge research tools and expertise through its
specialized core facilities, including:
- Genetics & Genomics Core (WestCore) – located at BHSU
- Proteomics Core – University of South Dakota
- Bioinformatics Core – University of South Dakota
- Tissue Engineering & Cell Culture Lab – South Dakota Mines
Student Research Opportunities
Interested in biomedical research? SD INBRE offers paid undergraduate research fellowships,
giving you the chance to work alongside faculty mentors during the academic year or
summer. This is your opportunity to turn curiosity into discovery and gain hands-on
experience that sets you apart.
Visit the SD INBRE Website
There are several scholarships available for Biology major that range up to full-tuition.
Information on Scholarship and our scholarship application can be found on our scholarship
page.
View Scholarship Page
Accelerated Master of Science in Integrative Genomics (MSIG)
Fast-track your future with our Accelerated MSIG program! As a senior undergraduate,
you can begin graduate-level coursework now and earn your master’s degree in just
one additional year. This unique program combines genomics with biochemistry, ecophysiology,
conservation biology, and molecular biology—giving you the tools to tackle fundamental
biological questions through an interdisciplinary lens. Jumpstart your career in research,
biotechnology, or academia with less time and more impact.
Career Outcomes:
Graduates have gone on to roles such as:
- Consultants and research associates in the biotech industry
- Research managers in personalized medicine
- Wildlife biologists and botanists in state and federal agencies
Others have advanced to doctoral programs, medical school, and veterinary school.
Who Can Apply?
BHSU juniors, seniors or second semester sophomores with a 3.25 GPA or higher are eligible to apply for the Accelerated Master of Science in Integrative Genomics
program. Start planning early to fast-track your education and career
Explore the MSIG Program
