Biology
The past decade or so has seen the majority of biology texts rewritten. The reason is the huge development biology has witnessed over this period, from molecular biology to community ecology. Entire base sequences for living organisms have already been determined, from humans to many other different species, so biology in the 21st Century is shaping up to enter yet another new era. As a result, modern society is facing a number of biological issues, from micro issues including gene therapy and transgenic crops to macro issues including global warming and biodiversity. The Department of Biology aims to foster talented individuals able to contribute to the advancement of biology and to respond to a wide range of related social issues.
Messages from Current and Graduate Students
Hiromasa Ninomiya
(Graduated 1993 - Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto)
Going to university is a big turning point in our lives, and each one of us has many expectations of our time there. Whatever expectations we have for finding employment after university, we have to make that decision by ourselves and act independently to make it happen. It is through study and a range of experiences that we learn how to master our own thoughts, a skill that serves as a huge advantage as we move through life.
Located roughly in the center of Japan, the Department of Biology at Shinshu University covers a broad range of fields from high-altitude biology to molecular biology. It always had an atmosphere of freedom for me, with people having diverse interests and values gathering from all over Japan to share and express themselves. It was my fortune to start on my journey to independence at a university like this, and that journey has formed the foundations of my research today. Looking back on it now, I realize that even the mistakes were valuable experiences. I took on many challenges and lead a full life as a student at Shinshu University.
Yumi Sugadani
(Second-Year Student, 2008)
I joined the Department of Biology because I love nature and I wanted to learn basic sciences. From when I started living in Matsumoto, I looked toward the Northern Alps from the campus and went walking through the mountains. I was so moved that my desire to learn natural sciences, including biology, was rejuvenated. Being with people who share my aspirations and learning the wonders and fascination of living organisms in the middle of nature is one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life. Every time I learn something new, nature seems to become even more complex. Come and join us in the study of biology in nature-rich Nagano.
