Gazing up at the tallest building in University City, you are facing the Edificio de Biología. This is not just any building. It is a hub of scientific discovery and learning. The Edificio de Biología is part of the Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
Let’s dive into the story of this impressive institution. The Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas was born in 1974. It emerged from the division of the Facultad de Ciencias. Before 1974, sciences were part of the Facultad de Filosofía. The Moyano Law of 1857 initiated this separation. This division led to the creation of distinct faculties. These included Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Geology.
The Edificio de Biología is more than just classrooms. It is a center of research. The faculty actively engages in diverse fields of biology. The Edificio de Biología actually consists of two main buildings. They are commonly called the “Main Building” and the “Annex Building”.
The “Main Building” is shared with the Facultad de Ciencias Geológicas. The Edificio de Biología occupies the left part of this building. The “Annex Building” is entirely dedicated to Biology. It has two basements a semi-basement and five floors.
Inside the Edificio de Biología, you will find a wealth of resources. There are museums and collections showcasing research and teaching. Don’t miss the Museo de Anatomía Comparada de Vertebrados. The UCME Entomology Collection is another highlight. The Herbarium MACB and the Museo de Etnobotánica are also worth a visit.
The Edificio de Biología also has many departments. These departments cover a wide range of biological studies. The Departamento de Biodiversidad, Ecología y Evolución studies anthropology, biomathematics, botany, ecology and zoology. The Departamento de Biología Celular studies cells. The Departamento de Genética, Fisiología y Microbiología covers genetics, physiology and microbiology. The Sección Departamental de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular focuses on biochemistry and molecular biology.
The main building stands tall. It has 13 floors constructed in 1971. From its height, one can view the Real Jardín Botánico Alfonso XIII. You can also see the sports fields of Paraninfo.
The Edificio de Biología also has several services and associations for students. There’s A.U. de Ciencias Criminalísticas y Estudios Forenses AUCCEF. Other associations include Amazonia – Alytes and Asociaciуn de actividades subacuáticas y submarinismo YUBARTA. There’s also the Asociaciуn Española de Entomología and Banco de Imágenes de biología. Students can join the Club de juegos de rol y simulación GREBAS or the Club Deportivo de Biológicas.
The Edificio de Biología is part of the Campus de Excelencia Internacional CEI. The building’s location offers a unique environment for learning. It is close to both botanical beauty and athletic activity.
San Alberto Magno is the patron saint of the Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas. His feast day is celebrated on November 15th. This day is a special occasion for the faculty and students.
So, as you stand before the Edificio de Biología remember its history. Appreciate its role in scientific advancement. Consider the many students who have walked its halls. The Edificio de Biología continues to shape the future of biology in Madrid and beyond.