Graduation with Distinction in Biology
Biology majors who achieve excellence in both their studies and a research-based thesis may apply for Graduation with Distinction in Biology. Students may apply if they have a grade point average of 3.0 or above in Biology courses and courses approved as electives for the major, NOT including Independent Studies, at the time of application. The award of Distinction requires the maintenance of this grade point average and the completion of an original research project, usually carried out as an independent study in biology {e.g. BIO 293/493 (191/297)}, or in an appropriate biological science department at Duke University, or as an interdisciplinary study that includes biology.
Distinction will be awarded by a faculty committee based on an oral poster presentation and the written thesis. The thesis and poster should present a significant achievement in research and demonstrate a clear mastery of the research field.
Application and Deadlines
Thesis Information
Role of the Research Supervisor and Faculty Reader
Poster Information
Library Resources for Students Writing Theses
BioTAP, Biology Thesis Assessment Protocol
Theses Projects from 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008 and 2007 (PDF)Students completing an Independent Study in Fall or Spring are eligible to apply for the Trinity College Research Forum. Trinity College will award 15 students as Research Forum Fellows. Fellows enroll in a special Spring seminar course, where they present and discuss their research projects, write and review research proposals, and discuss ethical issues in the conduct of biological and biomedical research. Fellows will also be awarded funding to support their projects. Information on program and the application (done in October) is here.
Duke Biology Box 90338 Durham, NC 27708 Phone: 919-660-7372 Fax: 919-660-7293