Undergraduate Opportunities

•  2 credits
• Class code 28449
• This seminar introduces the foundational principles of biodiversity science, focusing on how we document and understand the vast variety of life on Earth. Through hands-on experiences and discussions, you will explore the critical role of natural history collections, learning how preserved specimens serve as vital data for modern research in ecology, evolution, human health, and more. The seminar is offered by instructors of the Biodiversity Institute & Natural History Museum and is an excellent opportunity to become familiar and involved with one of KU's preeminent research and learning centers.

• 3 credits
• Class code 26296
• Practicum in the method and theory of pottery analysis in archaeology. Topics include manufacturing techniques, classification, and compositional analysis of pottery artifacts, as well as strategies for interpreting the role of ceramic vessels in food production, storage, and consumption; social and ritual activities; trade and exchange; and the communication of ideas. Prerequisite: ANTH 110 or ANTH 150 or ANTH 151 or ANTH 310 or permission of instructor.

• 1 credit
• Class code 27676
• The lecture component of the course covers the anatomy and development of plants (embryophytes), with a focus on the seed plants. Students will gain basic knowledge of the structure and development of plants at the cellular level and the genetic controls of major developmental processes. Lectures will cover anatomy of seed plant organs, embryo structure and development, primary development from apical meristems, secondary development, and the anatomy of seed plant reproductive structures. Prerequisite: BIOL 152 or BIOL 153 and concurrent enrollment in BIOL 551, or consent of instructor. Satisfies: Capstone (CAP)

• 3 credits
• Class code 27678
• This is a laboratory course covering the anatomy and development of plants (embryophytes), with a focus on the seed plants. Students will gain basic knowledge of the structure and development of plant organs and tissues at the cellular level and the techniques used to answer research questions in plant anatomy. Lab exercises focus on the anatomy of seed plant organs, embryo structure and development, primary development from apical meristems, secondary development, and the anatomy of seed plant reproductive structures. In addition, students will gain hands-on experience preparing plant tissues for anatomical study and using them to answer research questions in plant anatomy and development. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 550, or consent of instructor. Satisfies: Capstone (CAP) , Lab and Field Experiences (LFE)

• 2 credits
• Class code 27530
• Insects are the most diverse group of organisms on Earth. This course provides an overview of the biology of insects, including morphology, evolution, classification, physiology, ecology, behavior, and conservation. The roles of insects in ecosystems and their interactions with humans are discussed, including ecological, economic, and medical implications. Prerequisite: BIOL 152 or BIOL 153, and concurrent enrollment in BIOL 579, or consent of instructor.

• 2 credits
• Class code 27531
• This course includes laboratory activities and field trips emphasize insect diversity, with an emphasis on learning to identify Kansas insect fauna from both live and preserved specimens. Students also receive training in field- and lab-based insect research methods and complete an independent project. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in BIOL 578, or consent of instructor. Satisfies: Lab and Field Experiences (LFE)

• 3 credits
• Class code 27891, 27893, 27892
• A lecture and laboratory course on the biology, evolution, and diversity of birds. One of the three credit hours from this course will apply towards BIOL lab elective requirements numbered 400 or higher for biology majors. Prerequisite: BIOL 152 or BIOL 153 and BIOL 154, or permission of instructor. Satisfies: Lab and Field Experiences (LFE)

• 3 credits
• Class code 27532
• An introduction to the theory of macroevolution and the fundamental principles of systematics. Intended for students planning to pursue advanced studies in organismal biology, evolution, and/or systematics. Topics in macroevolution will include hierarchy theory, species concepts, speciation and species selection. Methods of phylogenetic estimation will be discussed and include parsimony, Maximum likelihood and Baysian inference. Evolutionary studies utilizing phylogenies including tests of homology, studies of character evolution, and biogeography will be discussed. An overview of classification and nomenclature will also be provided. Prerequisite: BIOL 412 or equivalent.

Title: Data Security & Privacy Content Developer

Project mentor:  Aimee Stewart

Lab/Collection:  Specify Collections Consortium

Positions available:  1-2

Project Description: The Specify Collections Consortium (SCC), a non-profit software group hosted at the KU Biodiversity Institute, builds one of the world's leading data management platforms for natural history museums (used in over 450 collections around the world). Specify employees may be granted access to highly sensitive biologic and geologic data from these collections. This project offers a unique opportunity to enhance the data security and privacy knowledge of Specify staff through the creation of an engaging and informative training video and supporting documentation. This will involve researching best practices in data handling, privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA), and common security threats relevant to biodiversity and geology collections data. This role will involve scripting, storyboarding, and potentially producing a video that explains these complex topics in an accessible and understandable way, along with written supporting documentation. The goal is to create a resource that not only educates but also empowers staff to protect sensitive information and maintain the integrity of valuable collection data.

Skills needed:

• A strong aptitude for research.
• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal).
• Keen interest in data privacy and security.
• Experience with video editing software and instructional design is a plus, but not required.

Skills to be gained:

• A practical experience in instructional design and video production.
• A deep understanding of data security principles and privacy regulations.
• Ability to translate complex legal and technical information into engaging educational content.
• A portfolio demonstrating expertise in data governance, content creation, and staff training.
• Preparation for future roles in museum informatics, compliance, or educational media.

Semester: Spring, Summer, Fall

Title: Ichthyology Specimen Imaging

Project mentor:  Andrew Bentley

Lab/Collection: Ichthyology

Positions available:  2

Project Description:The KU Ichthyology Collection is seeking students to assist the curator, collection manager, and graduate students with the 2D imaging of specimens in our collection with the aim of including them in our database and publishing them online to assist in research uses of the collection. We have three main priorities for this imaging project - type collection specimens, tissue vouchers, and unidentified material. Working with imaging equipment in the BI imaging lab, students will retrieve predetermined specimens from the collection for imaging. Specimens will be imaged in liquid (from multiple angles if necessary) using immersion tanks and an existing imaging box lighting setup and camera. Images will then be post-processed for cropping, color correction, and exposure settings. May include attaching images to relevant records in the database along with necessary metadata.

Skills needed:

• Interest in photography and collections.
• Basic understanding of digital camera operation and photography standards.
• Attention to detail and analytical/organizational skills.
• Ability to work alone or in teams.
• Required to work with formalin and ethanol using appropriate PPE.

Skills to be gained: 

• Photographic experience
• Practical experience in a collection setting
• Basic fish identification skills
• Understanding of the importance of collections and the curation steps necessary in their management

Title: Ichthyology Specimen X-raying

Project mentor:  Andrew Bentley

Lab/Collection: Ichthyology

Positions available:  1

Project Description:The KU Ichthyology Collection is seeking a student to assist the curator, collection manager, and graduate students with the x-ray imaging of specimens in our collection with the aim of including them in our database and publishing them online to assist in research uses of the collection. We have three main priorities for this imaging project - type collection specimens, tissue vouchers, and unidentified material. Working with the digital x-ray equipment in the BI imaging lab, students will retrieve predetermined specimens from the collection for imaging. Images will be post-processed for cropping, color correction, and exposure settings. May include attaching images to relevant records in the database along with necessary metadata.

Skills needed:

• Interest in photography and collections.
• Basic understanding of photography standards
• Attention to detail and analytical/organizational skills.
• Ability to work alone or in teams.
• Required to work with formalin and ethanol using appropriate PPE.

Skills to be gained: 

• Photographic experience
• Practical experience in a collection setting
• Basic fish identification skills
• Understanding of the importance of collections and the curation steps necessary in their management

Title: Marketing Materials Developer

Project mentor:  Grant Fitzsimmons

Lab/Collection: Specify Collections Consortium

Positions available:  1

Project Description:  The Specify Collections Consortium (SCC) seeks a creative communicator to design and produce fresh marketing collateral that raises awareness of our collections management platform (CMS) among natural history museums worldwide. You will develop pamphlets, video snippets about the software, and a monthly newsletter, and help craft a comprehensive communications plan for working with over 450 collections around the world. This project offers you the chance to improve the SCC’s voice, convey our mission and impact, and engage an international audience of collection managers, curators, researchers, and software users. 

Skills needed:

• Strong writing and storytelling abilities.
• Basic graphic design or video editing experience (e.g., Canva, Premiere Pro).
• An understanding of marketing strategy and audience segmentation.
• Creativity and project management skills.

Skills to be gained: 

• Hands-on experience in developing multi-channel marketing campaigns.
• A portfolio of print and digital collateral (pamphlets, video, newsletter).
• Strategic communications planning and brand development.

Semester: Spring, Summer, Fall