Have you ever thought the best way to learn about science is to do it? Would you like to isolate a virus? In this pride, students will learn about the nature of science by taking part in a research project conducted entirely by first-year students. In this Course-Based Research Experience (CURE), you will isolate a virus, called a phage, that infects bacteria. After naming and purifying your virus, you will extract the genomic DNA and take an image with an electron microscope. While you are learning about science, you will also be completing First-Year Seminar requirements for PSU 016. BMB 205S counts as a student’s first-year seminar requirement for students in the College of Science and the Division of Undergraduate Studies.

Science in Literature (SC 142N) examines selected historic landmarks in science (e.g. evolution, atomic energy/weapons, climate change, biotechnology) with a focus on common misconceptions about the facts and practice of science. The course will also examine the development of literary and popular portrayals of science and scientists in their political, economic, social and cultural contexts, paired to these particular scientific developments. By considering past and current scientific problems, students will refine their quantitative and analytical skills. By considering scientific writing, novels, short stories, graphic novels, cinema, poetry, and other forms, students will refine their critical and reflective writing and speaking about both the rhetorical and discursive practices of science writing, and the social and cultural impact of literature in popular understandings of science.

This pride is reserved for students enrolled in the Eberly College of Science or the Division of Undergraduate Studies.