Department of Biology

When Sam Wasser, professor of biology at the UW, was a young biologist studying baboons in Tanzania, he never imagined he would one day lead an international force cracking down on the smuggling of illegal goods, from elephant ivory to pangolins and timber. Yet fighting transnational criminal organizations is exactly what he’s doing today, all because of his passion for animals.

Karly Cohen, a doctoral student in biology, discusses the curious Pacific Spiny Lumpsucker, "one of the cutest fish that you can find."

Sam Wasser, professor of biology, explains how DNA tests of seized elephant tusks can reveal ivory trafficking networks.

Billie Swalla, professor of biology, explains how sea squirts are relevant to discussions about the evolution of the heart and head.

Sam Wasser, research professor of biology, explains how a genetic investigation technique can be used to catch wildlife poachers.

Marina Watowich, a doctoral student in biology, explains the results of a new study she authored on the effects of extreme weather events on ageing.

Jeff Riffel, biology, discusses the results of a new UW study on what makes mosquitos attracted to humans.

Joseph Ammirati, professor of
biology, is mentioned in this article about a new book about a Seattle
alien fungus threatening to destroy the world.

Katie Holt, a doctoral student in
biology, explains a mass mortality event among penguins caused by a recent
heat wave in Argentina.

Incoming faculty member Z Yan Wang has been named a Next Generation Leader by the Allen Institute. 

Biology PhD student Ashely Paynter has created a podcast/organization that reflects her interests in science and activism. 

Jason Hodin, a research scientist at UW's Friday Harbor Laboratories, discusses whether sea stars bred in captivity can survive in the wild.

Carl Bergstrom, professor of biology, and Ryan McGee, a doctoral student in biology, are collaborating with Alicia Zhou to develop an interactive model that simulates COVID-19 outbreaks in the workplace or in schools.

Carl Bergstrom, professor of biology, discusses the University of Illinois's COVID-19 plan.

A video taken by Caitie Moore, a UW marine biology student, shows a baby orca jumping out of the water.