Completed in 1967. That’s when South Biology rose on this campus. William F. Thomas was its architect. But its story starts earlier. It begins with controversy. The U was home to the Institute of Environmental Biological Research. This institute partnered with the U.S. Army’s Dugway Proving Ground.
Their purpose was developing chemical biological and radioactive weapons. These are also known as CBR. It was a controversial purpose indeed. The National Institutes of Health also provided funding. This funding supported the Biology Division’s disease surveillance work. This work happened at Dugway. It also included other health-related duties at the U.
However after the 1960s South Biology changed course. It no longer partnered with the NIH for CBR production. Instead it became a catalyst. It spurred a new focus on cellular and molecular microbiology research. The U hired Mario Capecchi. He was a Nobel Laureate. His original lab was right here in South Biology.
In 2018 the department of Biology changed its name. It became the School of Biological Sciences. This change reflected a broader focus. The focus now ranged from cell biology to ecology. The South Biology building plays a vital role today. It houses the Biology Learning Center. Students get tutoring here. There are also many study spots throughout the building.
You are only an indoor bridge away from Brio Coffee in ASB. Need a caffeine fix? South Biology has you covered. Currently South Biology houses many research labs. Teaching labs also call this building home. The BLC provides tutoring here. The School of Biological Sciences administration is also here.
Let’s venture down to the basement. Here you’ll find an anatomy lab. A vivarium houses research birds and reptiles. Head up to the roof. You will discover a greenhouse. It is filled with research plants. There is also a pigeon coop. South Biology is more than just classrooms. It is a hub of activity. It’s a place of constant learning.
Now let’s talk about BioKids Childcare. It’s located near South Biology in Building 44. This building was built in 1945. It originally housed Student Health Services. Federal grant money funded its construction. The Federal Works Agency also contributed after World War II. The building cared for students too ill for their lodgings.
However they were not ill enough for hospitalization. It was one of only three permanent structures. These structures were erected on campus in the 1940s. It is the only building planned and completed during the War. From controversial beginnings to modern research South Biology has transformed. It stands as a testament to the ever-evolving world of science. Its walls hold stories of discovery innovation and dedication. As we move on take a moment to appreciate the legacy of South Biology.