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Published by Robert Bruce at August 29th, 2023 , Revised On September 5, 2023

Biology Research Topics

Are you in need of captivating and achievable research topics within the field of biology? Your quest for the best biology topics ends right here as this article furnishes you with 100 distinctive and original concepts for biology research, laying the groundwork for your research endeavor.

Table of Contents

Our proficient researchers have thoughtfully curated these biology research themes, considering the substantial body of literature accessible and the prevailing gaps in research.

Should none of these topics elicit enthusiasm, our specialists are equally capable of proposing tailor-made research ideas in biology, finely tuned to cater to your requirements. 

Thus, without further delay, we present our compilation of biology research topics crafted to accommodate students and researchers.

Research Topics in Marine Biology

  • Impact of climate change on coral reef ecosystems.
  • Biodiversity and adaptation of deep-sea organisms.
  • Effects of pollution on marine life and ecosystems.
  • Role of marine protected areas in conserving biodiversity.
  • Microplastics in marine environments: sources, impacts, and mitigation.

Biological Anthropology Research Topics

  • Evolutionary implications of early human migration patterns.
  • Genetic and environmental factors influencing human height variation.
  • Cultural evolution and its impact on human societies.
  • Paleoanthropological insights into human dietary adaptations.
  • Genetic diversity and population history of indigenous communities.

Biological Psychology Research Topics 

  • Neurobiological basis of addiction and its treatment.
  • Impact of stress on brain structure and function.
  • Genetic and environmental influences on mental health disorders.
  • Neural mechanisms underlying emotions and emotional regulation.
  • Role of the gut-brain axis in psychological well-being.

Cancer Biology Research Topics 

  • Targeted therapies in precision cancer medicine.
  • Tumor microenvironment and its influence on cancer progression.
  • Epigenetic modifications in cancer development and therapy.
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors and their role in cancer immunotherapy.
  • Early detection and diagnosis strategies for various types of cancer.

Also read: Cancer research topics

Cell Biology Research Topics

  • Mechanisms of autophagy and its implications in health and disease.
  • Intracellular transport and organelle dynamics in cell function.
  • Role of cell signaling pathways in cellular response to external stimuli.
  • Cell cycle regulation and its relevance to cancer development.
  • Cellular mechanisms of apoptosis and programmed cell death.

Developmental Biology Research Topics 

  • Genetic and molecular basis of limb development in vertebrates.
  • Evolution of embryonic development and its impact on morphological diversity.
  • Stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine approaches.
  • Mechanisms of organogenesis and tissue regeneration in animals.
  • Role of non-coding RNAs in developmental processes.

Also read: Education research topics

Human Biology Research Topics

  • Genetic factors influencing susceptibility to infectious diseases.
  • Human microbiome and its impact on health and disease.
  • Genetic basis of rare and common human diseases.
  • Genetic and environmental factors contributing to aging.
  • Impact of lifestyle and diet on human health and longevity.

Molecular Biology Research Topics 

  • CRISPR-Cas gene editing technology and its applications.
  • Non-coding RNAs as regulators of gene expression.
  • Role of epigenetics in gene regulation and disease.
  • Mechanisms of DNA repair and genome stability.
  • Molecular basis of cellular metabolism and energy production.

Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates

  • 41. Investigating the effects of pollutants on local plant species.
  • Microbial diversity and ecosystem functioning in a specific habitat.
  • Understanding the genetics of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • Impact of urbanization on bird populations and biodiversity.
  • Investigating the role of pheromones in insect communication.

Synthetic Biology Research Topics 

  • Design and construction of synthetic biological circuits.
  • Synthetic biology applications in biofuel production.
  • Ethical considerations in synthetic biology research and applications.
  • Synthetic biology approaches to engineering novel enzymes.
  • Creating synthetic organisms with modified functions and capabilities.

Animal Biology Research Topics 

  • Evolution of mating behaviors in animal species.
  • Genetic basis of color variation in butterfly wings.
  • Impact of habitat fragmentation on amphibian populations.
  • Behavior and communication in social insect colonies.
  • Adaptations of marine mammals to aquatic environments.

Also read: Nursing research topics

Best Biology Research Topics 

  • Unraveling the mysteries of circadian rhythms in organisms.
  • Investigating the ecological significance of cryptic coloration.
  • Evolution of venomous animals and their prey.
  • The role of endosymbiosis in the evolution of eukaryotic cells.
  • Exploring the potential of extremophiles in biotechnology.

Biological Psychology Research Paper Topics

  • Neurobiological mechanisms underlying memory formation.
  • Impact of sleep disorders on cognitive function and mental health.
  • Biological basis of personality traits and behavior.
  • Neural correlates of emotions and emotional disorders.
  • Role of neuroplasticity in brain recovery after injury.

Biological Science Research Topics: 

  • Role of gut microbiota in immune system development.
  • Molecular mechanisms of gene regulation during development.
  • Impact of climate change on insect population dynamics.
  • Genetic basis of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
  • Evolutionary relationships among vertebrate species based on DNA analysis.

Biology Education Research Topics 

  • Effectiveness of inquiry-based learning in biology classrooms.
  • Assessing the impact of virtual labs on student understanding of biology concepts.
  • Gender disparities in science education and strategies for closing the gap.
  • Role of outdoor education in enhancing students’ ecological awareness.
  • Integrating technology in biology education: challenges and opportunities.

Biology-Related Research Topics

  • The intersection of ecology and economics in conservation planning.
  • Molecular basis of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria.
  • Implications of genetic modification of crops for food security.
  • Evolutionary perspectives on cooperation and altruism in animal behavior.
  • Environmental impacts of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Biology Research Proposal Topics

  • Investigating the role of microRNAs in cancer progression.
  • Exploring the effects of pollution on aquatic biodiversity.
  • Developing a gene therapy approach for a genetic disorder.
  • Assessing the potential of natural compounds as anti-inflammatory agents.
  • Studying the molecular basis of cellular senescence and aging.

Biology Research Topic Ideas

  • Role of pheromones in insect mate selection and behavior.
  • Investigating the molecular basis of neurodevelopmental disorders.
  • Impact of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions.
  • Genetic diversity and conservation of endangered species.
  • Evolutionary patterns in mimicry and camouflage in organisms.

Biology Research Topics for Undergraduates 

  • Effects of different fertilizers on plant growth and soil health.
  • Investigating the biodiversity of a local freshwater ecosystem.
  • Evolutionary origins of a specific animal adaptation.
  • Genetic diversity and disease susceptibility in human populations.
  • Role of specific genes in regulating the immune response.

Cell and Molecular Biology Research Topics 

  • Molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.
  • Role of microRNAs in post-transcriptional gene regulation.
  • Investigating the cell cycle and its control mechanisms.
  • Molecular basis of mitochondrial diseases and therapies.
  • Cellular responses to oxidative stress and their implications in ageing.

These topics cover a broad range of subjects within biology, offering plenty of options for research projects. Remember that you can further refine these topics based on your specific interests and research goals.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some good research topics in biology?

A good research topic in biology will address a specific problem in any of the several areas of biology, such as marine biology, molecular biology, cellular biology, animal biology, or cancer biology.

A topic that enables you to investigate a problem in any area of biology will help you make a meaningful contribution. 

How to choose a research topic in biology?

Choosing a research topic in biology is simple. 

Follow the steps:

  • Generate potential topics. 
  • Consider your areas of knowledge and personal passions. 
  • Conduct a thorough review of existing literature.
  •  Evaluate the practicality and viability. 
  • Narrow down and refine your research query. 
  • Remain receptive to new ideas and suggestions.

Who Are We?

For several years, Research Prospect has been offering students around the globe complimentary research topic suggestions. We aim to assist students in choosing a research topic that is both suitable and feasible for their project, leading to the attainment of their desired grades. Explore how our services, including research proposal writing , dissertation outline creation, and comprehensive thesis writing , can contribute to your college’s success.

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200+ Unique And Interesting Biology Research Topics For Students In 2023

Biology Research Topics

Are you curious about the fascinating world of biology and its many research possibilities? Well, you are in the right place! In this blog, we will explore biology research topics, exploring what biology is, what constitutes a good research topic, and how to go about selecting the perfect one for your academic journey.

So, what exactly is biology? Biology is the study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. It includes everything from the tiniest cells to the largest ecosystems, making it a diverse and exciting field of study.

Stay tuned to learn more about biology research topics as we present over 200 intriguing research ideas for students, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right one. In addition, we will also share resources to make your quest for the perfect topic a breeze. Let’s embark on this scientific journey together!

If you are having trouble with any kind of assignment or task, do not worry—we can give you the best microbiology assignment help at a value price. Additionally, you may look at nursing project ideas .

What Is Biology?

Table of Contents

Biology is the study of living things, like animals, plants, and even tiny organisms too small to see. It helps us understand how these living things work and how they interact with each other and their environment. Biologists, or scientists who study biology, explore topics like how animals breathe, how plants grow, and how our bodies function. By learning about biology, we can better care for the Earth and all its living creatures.

What Is A Good Biology Research Topic?

A good biology research topic is a question or problem in the field of biology that scientists want to investigate and learn more about. It should be interesting and important, like studying how a new medicine can treat a disease or how animals adapt to changing environments. The topic should also be specific and clear, so researchers can focus on finding answers. Additionally, it’s helpful if the topic hasn’t been studied extensively before, so the research can contribute new knowledge to the field of biology and help us better understand the natural world.

Tips For Choosing A Biology Research Topics

Here are some tips for choosing a biology research topics:

1. Choose What Interests You

When picking a biology research topic, go for something that you personally find fascinating and enjoyable. When you’re genuinely curious about it, you’ll be more motivated to study and learn.

2. Select a Significant Topic

Look for a subject in biology that has real-world importance. Think about whether your research can address practical issues, like finding cures for diseases or understanding environmental problems. Research that can make a positive impact is usually a good choice.

3. Check If It’s Doable

Consider if you have the necessary tools and time to carry out your research. It’s essential to pick a topic that you can actually study with the resources available to you.

4. Add Your Unique Perspective

Try to find a fresh or different angle for your research. While you can build upon existing knowledge, bringing something new or unique to the table can make your research more exciting and valuable.

5. Seek Guidance

Don’t hesitate to ask for advice from your teachers or experienced researchers. They can provide you with valuable insights and help you make a smart decision when choosing your research topic in biology.

Biology Research Topics For College Students

1. Investigating the role of genetic mutations in cancer development.

2. Analyzing the impact of climate changes on wildlife populations.

3. Studying the ecology of invasive species in urban environments.

4. Investigating the microbiome of the human gut and its relationship to health.

5. Analyzing the genetic diversity of endangered species for conservation.

6. Studying the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

7. Investigating the ecological consequences of deforestation.

8. Analyzing the behavior and communication of social insects like ants and bees.

9. Studying the physiology of extreme environments, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents.

10. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of cell division and mitosis.

Plant Biology Research Topics For College Students

11. Studying the impact of different fertilizers on crop yields and soil health.

12. Analyzing the genetics of plant resistance to pests and diseases.

13. Investigating the role of plant hormones in growth and development.

14. Studying the adaptation of plants to drought conditions.

15. Analyzing the ecological interactions between plants and pollinators.

16. Investigating the use of biotechnology to enhance crop traits.

17. Studying the genetics of plant breeding for improved varieties.

18. Analyzing the physiology of photosynthesis and carbon fixation in plants.

19. Investigating the effects of soil microbiota on plant health.

20. Studying the evolution of plant species in response to changing environments.

Biotechnology Research Topics For College Students

21. Investigating the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genome editing.

22. Analyzing the production of biofuels from microorganisms.

23. Studying the application of biotechnology in medicine, such as gene therapy.

24. Investigating the use of bioplastics as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.

25. Analyzing the role of biotechnology in food production, including GMOs.

26. Studying the development of biopharmaceuticals and monoclonal antibodies.

27. Investigating the use of bioremediation to clean up polluted environments.

28. Studying the potential of synthetic biology for creating novel organisms.

29. Analyzing the ethical and social implications of biotechnological advancements.

30. Investigating the use of biotechnology in forensic science, such as DNA analysis.

Molecular Biology Research Topics For Undergraduates

31. Studying the structure and function of DNA and RNA molecules.

32. Analyzing the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotic cells.

33. Investigating the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.

34. Studying the role of non-coding RNAs in gene regulation.

35. Analyzing the molecular basis of genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis.

36. Investigating the epigenetic modifications that control gene activity.

37. Studying the molecular mechanisms of protein folding and misfolding.

38. Analyzing the molecular pathways involved in cancer progression.

39. Investigating the molecular basis of neurodegenerative diseases.

40. Studying the use of molecular markers in genetic diversity analysis.

Life Science Research Topics For High School Students

41. Investigating the effects of different diets on human health.

42. Analyzing the impact of exercise on cardiovascular fitness.

43. Studying the genetics of inherited traits and diseases.

44. Investigating the ecological interactions in a local ecosystem.

45. Analyzing the diversity of microorganisms in soil or water samples.

46. Studying the anatomy and physiology of a specific organ or system.

47. Investigating the life cycle of a local plant or animal species.

48. Studying the effects of environmental pollutants on aquatic organisms.

49. Analyzing the behavior of a specific animal species in its habitat.

50. Investigating the process of photosynthesis in plants.

Biology Research Topics For Grade 12

51. Investigating the genetic basis of a specific inherited disorder.

52. Analyzing the impact of climate change on a local ecosystem.

53.Studying the biodiversity of a particular rainforest region.

54. Investigating the physiological adaptations of animals to extreme temperatures.

55. Analyzing the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

56. Studying the life history and conservation status of an endangered species.

57. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of a specific disease.

58. Studying the ecological interactions within a coral reef ecosystem.

59. Analyzing the genetics of plant hybridization and speciation.

60. Investigating the behavior and communication of a particular bird species.

Marine Biology Research Topics

61. Studying the impact of ocean acidification on coral reefs.

62. Analyzing the migration patterns of marine mammals.

63. Investigating the physiology of deep-sea creatures under high pressure.

64. Studying the ecology of phytoplankton and their role in the marine food web.

65. Analyzing the behavior of different species of sharks.

66. Investigating the conservation of sea turtle populations.

67. Studying the biodiversity of deep-sea hydrothermal vent communities.

68. Analyzing the effects of overfishing on marine ecosystems.

69. Investigating the adaptation of marine organisms to extreme cold in polar regions.

70. Studying the bioluminescence and communication in marine organisms.

AP Biology Research Topics

71. Investigating the role of specific enzymes in cellular metabolism.

72. Analyzing the genetic variation within a population.

73. Studying the mechanisms of hormonal regulation in animals.

74. Investigating the principles of Mendelian genetics through trait analysis.

75. Analyzing the ecological succession in a local ecosystem.

76. Studying the physiology of the human circulatory system.

77. Investigating the molecular biology of a specific virus.

78. Studying the principles of natural selection through evolutionary simulations.

79. Analyzing the genetic diversity of a plant species in different habitats.

80. Investigating the effects of different environmental factors on plant growth.

Cell Biology Research Topics

81. Investigating the role of mitochondria in cellular energy production.

82. Analyzing the mechanisms of cell division and mitosis.

83. Studying the function of cell membrane proteins in signal transduction.

84. Investigating the cellular processes involved in apoptosis (cell death).

85. Analyzing the role of endoplasmic reticulum in protein synthesis and folding.

86. Studying the dynamics of the cytoskeleton and cell motility.

87. Investigating the regulation of cell cycle checkpoints.

88. Analyzing the structure and function of cellular organelles.

89. Studying the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.

90. Investigating the impact of cellular stress on cell health and function.

Human Biology Research Topics

91. Analyzing the genetic basis of inherited diseases in humans.

92. Investigating the physiological responses to exercise and physical activity.

93. Studying the hormonal regulation of the human reproductive system.

94. Analyzing the impact of nutrition on human health and metabolism.

95. Investigating the role of the immune system in disease prevention.

96. Studying the genetics of human evolution and migration.

97. Analyzing the neural mechanisms underlying human cognition and behavior.

98. Investigating the molecular basis of aging and age-related diseases.

99. Studying the impact of environmental toxins on human health.

100. Analyzing the genetics of organ transplantation and tissue compatibility.

Molecular Biology Research Topics

101. Investigating the role of microRNAs in gene regulation.

102. Analyzing the molecular basis of genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis.

103. Studying the epigenetic modifications that control gene expression.

104. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of RNA splicing.

105. Analyzing the role of telomeres in cellular aging.

106. Studying the molecular pathways involved in cancer metastasis.

107. Investigating the molecular basis of neurodegenerative diseases.

108. Studying the molecular interactions in protein-protein networks.

109. Analyzing the molecular mechanisms of DNA damage and repair.

110. Investigating the use of CRISPR-Cas9 for genome editing.

Animal Biology Research Topics

111. Studying the behavior and communication of social insects like ants.

112. Analyzing the physiology of hibernation in mammals.

113. Investigating the ecological interactions in a predator-prey relationship.

114. Studying the adaptations of animals to extreme environments.

115. Analyzing the genetics of inherited traits in animal populations.

116. Investigating the impact of climate change on animal migration patterns.

117. Studying the diversity of marine life in coral reef ecosystems.

118. Analyzing the physiology of flight in birds and bats.

119. Investigating the molecular basis of animal coloration and camouflage.

120. Studying the behavior and conservation of endangered species.

  • Neuroscience Research Topics
  • Mental Health Research Topics

Plant Biology Research Topics

121. Investigating the role of plant hormones in growth and development.

122. Analyzing the genetics of plant resistance to pests and diseases.

123. Climate change and plant phenology are being examined.

124. Investigating the ecology of mycorrhizal fungi and their symbiosis with plants.

125. Investigating plant photosynthesis and carbon fixing.

126. Molecular analysis of plant stress responses.

127. Investigating the adaptation of plants to drought conditions.

128. Studying the role of plants in phytoremediation of polluted environments.

129. Analyzing the genetics of plant hybridization and speciation.

130. Investigating the molecular basis of plant-microbe interactions.

Environmental Biology Research Topics

131. Analyzing the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

132. Investigating the biodiversity of a particular ecosystem.

133. Studying the ecological consequences of deforestation.

134. Analyzing the impact of climate change on wildlife populations.

135. Investigating the use of bioremediation to clean up polluted sites.

136. Studying the environmental factors influencing species distribution.

137. Analyzing the effects of habitat fragmentation on wildlife.

138. Investigating the ecology of invasive species in new environments.

139. Studying the conservation of endangered species and habitats.

140. Analyzing the interactions between humans and urban ecosystems.

Chemical Biology Research Topics

141. Investigating the design and synthesis of new drug compounds.

142. Analyzing the molecular mechanisms of enzyme catalysis.

143.Studying the role of small molecules in cellular signaling pathways.

144. Investigating the development of chemical probes for biological research.

145. Studying the chemistry of protein-ligand interactions.

146. Analyzing the use of chemical biology in cancer therapy.

147. Investigating the synthesis of bioactive natural products.

148. Studying the role of chemical compounds in microbial interactions.

149. Analyzing the chemistry of DNA-protein interactions.

150. Investigating the chemical basis of drug resistance in pathogens.

Medical Biology Research Topics

151. Investigating the genetic basis of specific diseases like diabetes.

152. Analyzing the mechanisms of drug resistance in bacteria.

153. Studying the molecular mechanisms of autoimmune diseases.

154. Investigating the development of personalized medicine approaches.

155. Studying the role of inflammation in chronic diseases.

156. Analyzing the genetics of rare diseases and genetic syndromes.

157. Investigating the molecular basis of viral infections and vaccines.

158. Studying the mechanisms of organ transplantation and rejection.

159. Analyzing the molecular diagnostics of cancer.

160. Investigating the biology of stem cells and regenerative medicine.

Evolutionary Biology Research Topics

161. Studying the evolution of human ancestors and early hominids.

162. The genetic variety of species and between species is being looked at.

163. Investigating the role of sexual selection in animal evolution.

164. Studying the co-evolutionary relationships between parasites and hosts.

165. Analyzing the evolutionary adaptations of extremophiles.

166. Investigating the evolution of developmental processes (evo-devo).

167. Studying the biogeography and distribution of species.

168. Analyzing the evolution of mimicry in animals and plants.

169. Investigating the genetics of speciation and hybridization.

170. Studying the evolutionary history of domesticated plants and animals.

Cellular Biology Research Topics

171. Investigating the role of autophagy in cellular homeostasis.

172. Analyzing the mechanisms of cellular transport and trafficking.

173. Studying the regulation of cell adhesion & migration.

174. Investigating the cellular responses to DNA damage.

175. Analyzing the dynamics of cellular membrane structures.

176. Studying the role of cellular organelles in lipid metabolism.

177. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of cell-cell communication.

178. Studying the physiology of cellular respiration and energy production.

179. Analyzing the cellular mechanisms of viral entry and replication.

180. Investigating the role of cellular senescence in aging and disease.

Good Biology Research Topics Related To Brain Injuries

181. Analyzing the molecular mechanisms of traumatic brain injury.

182. Investigating the role of neuroinflammation in brain injury recovery.

183. Studying the impact of concussions on long-term brain health.

184. Analyzing the use of neuroimaging in diagnosing brain injuries.

185. Investigating the development of neuroprotective therapies.

186. Studying the genetics of susceptibility to brain injuries.

187. Analyzing the cognitive and behavioral effects of brain trauma.

188. Investigating the role of rehabilitation in brain injury recovery.

189. Studying the cellular and molecular changes in axonal injury.

190. Looking into how stem cell therapy might be used to help brain injuries.

Biology Quantitative Research Topics

191. Investigating the mathematical modeling of population dynamics.

192. Analyzing the statistical methods for biodiversity assessment.

193. Studying the use of bioinformatics in genomics research.

194. Investigating the quantitative analysis of gene expression data.

195. Studying the mathematical modeling of enzyme kinetics.

196. Analyzing the statistical approaches for epidemiological studies.

197. Investigating the use of computational tools in phylogenetics.

198. Studying the mathematical modeling of ecological systems.

199. Analyzing the quantitative analysis of protein-protein interactions.

200. Investigating the statistical methods for analyzing genetic variation.

Importance Of Choosing The Right Biology Research Topics

Here are some importance of choosing the right biology research topics: 

1. Relevance to Your Interests and Goals

Choosing the right biology research topic is important because it should align with your interests and goals. Studying something you’re passionate about keeps you motivated and dedicated to your research.

2. Contribution to Scientific Knowledge

Your research should contribute something valuable to the world of science. Picking the right topic means you have the chance to discover something new or solve a problem, advancing our understanding of the natural world.

3. Availability of Resources

Consider the resources you have or can access. If you pick a topic that demands resources you don’t have, your research may hit a dead end. Choosing wisely means you can work efficiently.

4. Feasibility and Manageability

A good research topic should be manageable within your time frame and capabilities. If it’s too broad or complex, you might get overwhelmed. Picking the right topic ensures your research is doable.

5. Real-World Impact

Think about how your research might benefit the real world. Biology often has implications for health, the environment, or society. Choosing a topic with practical applications can make your work meaningful and potentially change lives.

Resources For Finding Biology Research Topics

There are numerous resources for finding biology research topics:

1. Online Databases

Look on websites like PubMed and Google Scholar. They have lots of biology articles. Type words about what you like to find topics.

2. Academic Journals

Check biology magazines. They talk about new research. You can find ideas and see what’s important.

3. University Websites

Colleges show what their teachers study. Find teachers who like what you like. Ask them about ideas for your own study.

4. Science News and Magazines

Read science news. They tell you about new things in biology. It helps you think of research ideas.

5. Join Biology Forums and Communities

Talk to other people who like biology online. You can ask for ideas and find friends to help you. Use websites like ResearchGate and Reddit for this.

Conclusion 

Biology Research Topics offer exciting opportunities for exploration and learning. We’ve explained what biology is and stressed the importance of picking a good research topic. Our tips and extensive list of over 200 biology research topics provide valuable guidance for students.

Selecting the right topic is more than just getting good grades; it’s about making meaningful contributions to our understanding of life. We’ve also shared resources to help you discover even more topics. So, embrace the world of biology research, embark on a journey of discovery, and be part of the ongoing effort to unravel the mysteries of the natural world.

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49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics

August 21, 2023

In need of the perfect biology research topics—ideas that can both showcase your intellect and fuel your academic success? Lost in the boundless landscape of possible biology topics to research? And afraid you’ll never get a chance to begin writing your paper, let alone finish writing? Whether you’re a budding biologist hoping for a challenge or a novice seeking easy biology research topics to wade into, this blog offers curated and comprehensible options.

And if you’re a high school or transfer student looking for opportunities to immerse yourself in biology, consider learning more about research opportunities for high school students , top summer programs for high school students , best colleges for studying biomedical engineering , and best colleges for studying biology .

What is biology?

Well, biology explores the web of life that envelops our planet, from the teeny-tiny microbes to the big complex ecosystems. Biology investigates the molecular processes that define existence, deciphers the interplay of genes, and examines all the dynamic ways organisms interact with their environments. And through biology, you can gain not only knowledge, but a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things. Pretty cool!

There are lots and lots of sub-disciplines within biology, branching out in all directions. Throughout this list, we won’t follow all of those branches, but we will follow many. And while none of these branches are truly simple or easy, some might be easier than others. Now we’ll take a look at a few various biology research topics and example questions that could pique your curiosity.

Climate change and ecosystems

The first of our potentially easy biology research topics: climate change and ecosystems. Investigate how ecosystems respond and adapt to the changing climate. And learn about shifts in species distributions , phenology , and ecological interactions .

1) How are different ecosystems responding to temperature changes and altered precipitation patterns?2) What are the implications of shifts in species distributions for ecosystem stability and functioning?

2) Or how does phenology change in response to climate shifts? And how do those changes impact species interactions?

3) Which underlying genetic and physiological mechanisms enable certain species to adapt to changing climate conditions?

4) And how do changing climate conditions affect species’ abilities to interact and form mutualistic relationships within ecosystems?

Microbiome and human health

Intrigued by the relationship between the gut and the rest of the body? Study the complex microbiome . You could learn how gut microbes influence digestion, immunity, and even mental health.

5) How do specific gut microbial communities impact nutrient absorption?

6) What are the connections between the gut microbiome, immune system development, and susceptibility to autoimmune diseases?

7) What ethical considerations need to be addressed when developing personalized microbiome-based therapies? And how can these therapies be safely and equitably integrated into clinical practice?

8) Or how do variations in the gut microbiome contribute to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression?

9) How do changes in diet and lifestyle affect the composition and function of the gut microbiome? And what are the subsequent health implications?

Urban biodiversity conservation

Next, here’s another one of the potentially easy biology research topics. Examine the challenges and strategies for conserving biodiversity in urban environments. Consider the impact of urbanization on native species and ecosystem services. Then investigate the decline of pollinators and its implications for food security or ecosystem health.

10) How does urbanization influence the abundance and diversity of native plant and animal species in cities?

11) Or what are effective strategies for creating and maintaining green spaces that support urban biodiversity and ecosystem services?

12) How do different urban design and planning approaches impact the distribution of wildlife species and their interactions?

13) What are the best practices for engaging urban communities in biodiversity conservation efforts?

14) And how can urban agriculture and rooftop gardens contribute to urban biodiversity conservation while also addressing food security challenges?

Bioengineering

Are you a problem solver at heart? Then try approaching the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine. Delve into the field of synthetic biology , where researchers engineer biological systems to create novel organisms with useful applications.

15) How can synthetic biology be harnessed to develop new, sustainable sources of biofuels from engineered microorganisms?

16) And what ethical considerations arise when creating genetically modified organisms for bioremediation purposes?

17) Can synthetic biology techniques be used to design plants that are more efficient at withdrawing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

18) How can bioengineering create organisms capable of producing valuable pharmaceutical compounds in a controlled and sustainable manner?

19) But what are the potential risks and benefits of using engineered organisms for large-scale environmental cleanup projects?

Neurobiology

Interested in learning more about what makes creatures tick? Then this might be one of your favorite biology topics to research. Explore the neural mechanisms that underlie complex behaviors in animals and humans. Shed light on topics like decision-making, social interactions, and addiction. And investigate how brain plasticity and neurogenesis help the brain adapt to learning, injury, and aging.

20) How does the brain’s reward circuitry influence decision-making processes in situations involving risk and reward?

21) What neural mechanisms underlie empathy and social interactions in both humans and animals?

22) Or how do changes in neural plasticity contribute to age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases?

23) Can insights from neurobiology inform the development of more effective treatments for addiction and substance abuse?

24) What are the neural correlates of learning and memory? And how can our understanding of these processes be applied to educational strategies?

Plant epigenomics

While this might not be one of the easy biology research topics, it will appeal to plant enthusiasts. Explore how epigenetic modifications in plants affect their ability to respond and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

25) How do epigenetic modifications influence the expression of stress-related genes in plants exposed to temperature fluctuations?

26) Or what role do epigenetic changes play in plants’ abilities to acclimate to changing levels of air pollution?

27) Can certain epigenetic modifications be used as indicators of a plant’s adaptability to new environments?

28) How do epigenetic modifications contribute to the transgenerational inheritance of traits related to stress resistance?

29) And can targeted manipulation of epigenetic marks enhance crop plants’ ability to withstand changing environmental conditions?

Conservation genomics

Motivated to save the planet? Conservation genomics stands at the forefront of modern biology, merging the power of genetics with the urgent need to protect Earth’s biodiversity. Study genetic diversity, population dynamics, and how endangered species adapt in response to environmental changes.

30) How does genetic diversity within endangered species influence their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions?

31) What genetic factors contribute to the susceptibility of certain populations to diseases, and how can this knowledge inform conservation strategies?

32) How can genomic data be used to inform captive breeding and reintroduction programs for endangered species?

33) And what are the genomic signatures of adaptation in response to human-induced environmental changes, such as habitat fragmentation and pollution?

34) Or how can genomics help identify “hotspots” of biodiversity that are particularly important for conservation efforts?

Zoonotic disease transmission

And here’s one of the biology research topics that’s been on all our minds in recent years. Investigate the factors contributing to the transmission of zoonotic diseases , like COVID-19. Then posit strategies for prevention and early detection.

35) What are the ecological and genetic factors that facilitate the spillover of zoonotic pathogens from animals to humans?

36) Or how do changes in land use, deforestation, and urbanization impact the risk of zoonotic disease emergence?

37) Can early detection and surveillance systems be developed to predict and mitigate the spread of zoonotic diseases?

38) How do social and cultural factors influence human behaviors that contribute to zoonotic disease transmission?

39) And can strategies be implemented to improve global pandemic preparedness?

Bioinformatics

Are you a data fanatic? Bioinformatics involves developing computational tools and techniques to analyze and interpret large biological datasets. This enables advancements in genomics, proteomics, and systems biology. So delve into the world of bioinformatics to learn how large-scale genomic and molecular data are revolutionizing biological research.

40) How can machine learning algorithms predict the function of genes based on their DNA sequences?

41) And what computational methods can identify potential drug targets by analyzing protein-protein interactions in large biological datasets?

42) Can bioinformatics tools be used to identify potential disease-causing mutations in human genomes and guide personalized medicine approaches?

43) What are the challenges and opportunities in analyzing “omics” data (genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics) to uncover novel biological insights?

44) Or how can bioinformatics contribute to our understanding of microbial diversity, evolution, and interactions within ecosystems?

Regenerative medicine

While definitely not one of the easy biology research topics, regenerative medicine will appeal to those interested in healthcare. Research innovative approaches to stimulate tissue and organ regeneration, using stem cells, tissue engineering, and biotechnology. And while you’re at it, discover the next potential medical breakthrough.

45) How can stem cells be directed to differentiate into specific cell types for tissue regeneration, and what factors influence this process?

46) Or what are the potential applications of 3D bioprinting in creating functional tissues and organs for transplantation?

47) How can bioengineered scaffolds enhance tissue regeneration and integration with host tissues?

48) What are the ethical considerations surrounding the use of stem cells and regenerative therapies in medical treatments?

49) And can regenerative medicine approaches be used to treat neurodegenerative disorders and restore brain function?

Biology Research Topics – Final thoughts

So as you take your next steps, try not to feel overwhelmed. And instead, appreciate the vast realm of possibilities that biology research topics offer. Because the array of biology topics to research is as diverse as the ecosystems it seeks to understand. And no matter if you’re only looking for easy biology research topics, or you’re itching to unravel the mysteries of plant-microbe interactions, your exploration will continue to deepen what we know of the world around us.

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150 Actual Biology Research Paper Topics

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Table of contents

  • 1 What Is Biology? What Topics Might Biologists Study?
  • 2 How to Choose a Topic for Biology Research Paper?
  • 3.1 15 Developmental Biology Topics For Research
  • 3.2 15 Immune System Biology Research Topics
  • 3.3 15 Cell Biology Research Topics
  • 3.4 15 DNA Research Topics
  • 3.5 15 Molecular Biology Research Topics
  • 3.6 15 Neurobiology Research Topics
  • 3.7 15 Abortion, Human cloning, and Genetic Researches Topics
  • 3.8 15 Environmental and Ecology Topics for Your Research
  • 3.9 15 Plant Pathology Biology Research Topics
  • 3.10 15 Animals Biology Research Topics
  • 3.11 15 Marine Biology Research Topics
  • 3.12 15 Zoology Research Topics
  • 3.13 15 Genetics Research Topics
  • 3.14 15 Biotechnology Research Topics
  • 3.15 15 Evolutionary Biology Research Topics

Biology is one of the most magnetic fields of study these days. If you want to be a biologist or scientist in the future, there is no better time to start than right now. Biology research topics covered in this article will keep you busy and interested. Writing a research paper is one of the best ways to dip your toes into the field. Before doing that, you need to know some good topics for the research paper . They should be suitable for biology students rather than cutting-edge researchers. On Papersowl.com , we provide as many biology research paper examples as possible so that you have a huge choice.

What Is Biology? What Topics Might Biologists Study?

Biology is simply the study of everything that has a form of life. It includes investigations on plants, animals, and everything found in the environment. It is about studying how life forms grow, develop, and interact with each other. Biology essay topics for research encompass all these and more.

This science uncovers many fields where various life forms are studied. It makes sense to look through these fields to help you decide which suits you the best.

Plant Biology research topics are about studying the plants around us. They disclose information about their existence as a part of the ecosystem, their life cycle, resources they can give us, their ability to preserve them from climate changes, and so on. There are many ideas to choose from, but you must focus on a specific one.

Human Biology research topics are all about us. These topics focus on different body parts, such as the human brain, the human immunological system, the nervous system, etc. In addition, you can discuss DNA modifications in humans and explain why genetic disorders occur in your research projects. Various cell research is also common today.

Biology research topics on the environment are in great demand too. For example, climate change is becoming a more significant threat every day. By studying environmental topics in biology for projects and research, we can come up with ways to combat them and preserve ecosystems.

Microbiology research topics delve into things we can’t see. There are trillions of microbes and bacteria all around us. Knowing about them is essential to understanding what makes us sick and how to fight against them. All microbiology research paper topics are pretty complicated yet very engaging to include in your paper research.

Molecular biology topics dive even deeper into the level of atoms and molecules. The various medicines and drugs we take were all created through molecular-biology research. It is one of the areas full of ideas, but there is yet to be much evidence. Science is advancing in this realm but still needs a lot of time. Topics of molecular biology will need days for research only.

Keep in mind that there are more ideas and variations of this science. We offer more examples in further sections of the article about developmental biology, marine biology, evolutionary biology, etc. Explore them and make your writing appealing and meaningful in the eyes of a professor.

How to Choose a Topic for Biology Research Paper?

When choosing a biology project topic, you must be aware of one or more fields of science. Biology research is critical to the present world. By doing research, we can learn more about genetic disorders, immune disorders, mental health, natural disease resistance, etc. Knowing about each of these could save lives in the future.

For those who may not have the time or resources to do their own research, there are research paper writing services that can provide assistance with the project. And we are always here to help you find your own topic among interesting biology research topics. Here we prepared some useful tips to follow.

  • Tip 1: The level of interest matters Pay attention to one that interests you, and you might have ideas on how to develop the topic. Passion is fundamental in research, after all.
  • Tip 2: Explore the topic Try to narrow things down a bit. If the topic is too broad, you may not be able to cover all aspects of it in one research paper. If it is too narrow, the paper could end up too short. Analyze the topic and the ways to approach it. By doing so, you can strike a balance between the two.
  • Tip 3: Discover the recent developments To make your research paper touchable with the present day, you must explore the latest developments in the field. You can find out what kind of research has been done recently by looking at journals. Check out research papers, topics, research articles, and other sources.
  • Tip 4: Ensure to get enough resources When choosing a topic, make sure it has plenty of resources available. For example, a research paper on xenobiology or cutting-edge nanobiology might sound attractive. Still, you might have difficulties getting data and resources for those unless you are a researcher at a government lab. Data, resources, complex numbers, and statistics are all invaluable to writing a paper about these topics.

That is why we have selected a range of biological topics. The topics on this list are all hopefully exciting topics for research you could write an excellent paper on. We should also add that easy biology topics to research are rare, and a writer usually needs days to prepare and start writing. Yes, biology research topics for high school students are a bit easier, but still, they need time to explore them.

On the other hand, biology research topics for college students are far more complex and detailed. Some people prefer evolutionary biology research paper topics, and we can agree with this claim. These research areas do have a lot of potential and a lot of data to support the claims. Others prefer cell biology research topics that are a bit specific and fun. Anyway, with this article’s list of easy biology research topics, you will surely find the one matching your interest.

For those who may not have the time or resources to do their own research, there are provide assistance with the project.

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Top Research Biology Paper Topics

This section contains a large selection of research biology paper topics. You will be able to find one that will suit you the best. The only thing left is to decide what variation of science you prefer. Whether you’re interested in microbiology, genetics, or any other type of science, you’ll find a topic to get you started. If you’re ever stuck or need some extra help, you can always pay someone to write your paper for you. So, take a look, and choose the perfect topic for your project!

15 Developmental Biology Topics For Research

Exploring the processes of how cells grow and develop is exciting. The human body contains millions of cells, and it’s interesting to research their behavior under different conditions. If you feel like writing about it, you can find some interesting biology topics below.

  • How do stem cells form different tissues?
  • How are tumors formed?
  • Duplication of genomes
  • Plasticity of development
  • Different birth defects
  • Interactions between genes and the environment
  • Anticancer drugs mixtures
  • Developmental diseases: Origin
  • Drosophila Oogenesis
  • Most deadly viruses
  • Most deadly bacteria in the world
  • How do germs affect cells?
  • How does leukemia start?
  • Development of the cardiovascular system in children
  • How do autoimmune diseases start and affect the human body?

15 Immune System Biology Research Topics

For decades, many scientists and immunologists have studied the human immune system and tried to explain its reaction to various pathogens. This area allows you to deepen into it and reveal how a body protects itself from harmful impact. Look over the biology research questions below and find your match-up.

  • How does the human body’s immune system work?
  • The human immune system: How to strengthen it?
  • What makes the immunological system weaker?
  • The notion of auto-immune diseases and their effect on the body’s immune system
  • The global HIV/aids epidemic
  • What methods are used to prevent the spread of hives?
  • Living with auto-immune diseases
  • Genetics and the immune system: effects and consequences
  • How do immune disorders affect the body, and what causes them?
  • Are allergies signs of worrying about an immune disorder?
  • DNA modification in solving immune disorders
  • Stress as the biggest ruiner of the immunological system
  • Vaccines as strong supporters of the immunological system
  • The perception of vaccines in society
  • Why do some people refuse vaccines and put others around them in danger?

15 Cell Biology Research Topics

Cell study might seem challenging yet very engaging. It will be a good idea to compare various types of cells and compare them in animals and plants. Make your choice from the list of cell biology research topics below.

  • The structure of an animal cell
  • Mitochondria and its meaning in cell development
  • Cells classification and their functions
  • Red blood cells and their function in transporting oxygen
  • White blood cells and their responsibility to fight diseases
  • How are plant cells different from animal cells?
  • What would it be if animals had a function to photosynthesize?
  • Single-celled organisms: What is it, and how do they work?
  • What processes do cells go through in division?
  • Invasion of bacteria into the body
  • Viruses – alive or not?
  • Fungi: their reproduction and distribution
  • Cancer cells: Why are they so dangerous?
  • What methods are used to kill cancer cells?
  • The role of stem cells and their potential in a body

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15 DNA Research Topics

The variety of biology research topics for college students might impress you a lot. This is a science with a large field of investigation, disclosing much scientific information to use in your project. The notion of DNA and its gist are also excellent options to write about.

  • The structure of the human DNA
  • The main components of a DNA chain
  • Why does DNA have a double-helix spiral structure?
  • The purpose of chromosomes
  • MRNA and its relation to DNA
  • Do single-celled organisms have DNA?
  • Do viruses have DNA?
  • What happens if you have too many or too few chromosomes?
  • Analyzing the structure of DNA using computers
  • Uses for the DNA of extinct organisms like mammoths and dinosaurs
  • Storing non-genetic information in DNA
  • Can you write a computer program into human DNA?
  • How does radiation affect DNA?
  • Modifying DNA to treat aids
  • Can we fight cancer through DNA modification?

15 Molecular Biology Research Topics

Do you prefer to research molecules’ chemical and physical composition? We gathered some molecular biology research topics to make your choice easier.

  • The structure and components of a gene
  • How do molecules move in and out of a cell?
  • The basic building blocks of life
  • How are drugs designed for humans?
  • How is a vaccine designed to target a specific disease?
  • Dominant genes vs. recessive genes
  • Prion disease – why is it so dangerous?
  • Hormones and their function in the body
  • Developing artificial hormones from other animals
  • How to carry out a western blot?
  • Testing and analyzing DNA using PCR
  • The three-dimensional structure of a molecule
  • What is DNA transcription, and how is it used?
  • The structure of a prion
  • What is the central dogma of molecular biology?

15 Neurobiology Research Topics

The more you dive into science, the more exciting things you find. That’s about biology. Here, you can choose biology research topics for high school and try to reveal more simply.

  • Nervous system: its structure and function
  • Neurons as unique cells playing a central role in the nervous system
  • What is the maximum reaction speed in a human?
  • Reaction speed: how to improve it?
  • Research on Organic Farming
  • What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease?
  • Why do we feel happy or sad?
  • Headaches in terms of Neurobiology
  • What are the reasons for neurobiological degeneration?
  • Myths and reality of Amnesia
  • What causes Alzheimer’s Disease, and what are the consequences of the disease?
  • What is the treatment for Spinal Cord Injury?
  • Studies on Narcolepsy and Insomnia: What are the causes?
  • Is there a connection between Mental Health and Neurobiology?
  • Emotions in terms of their reflection in the brain

15 Abortion, Human cloning, and Genetic Researches Topics

There are so many scientific researches and theories that society accepts or neglects. You can operate different notions and try to explain them, reflecting their advantages and downsides for a human being. We gathered some enticing life science research topics for high school students that might interest you.

  • The controversy around abortion: legal or not?
  • Can abortion be safe?
  • Human cloning – reality vs. science-fiction
  • The goals of cloning humans
  • Are human cloning and transplantation ethical?
  • Having a “perfect child” through gene therapy: Is it a myth?
  • How far has gene therapy gone in genetic research?
  • Advantages and disadvantages of gene therapy
  • How gene therapy can help beat cancer
  • How gene therapy can eliminate diabetes
  • The opportunity to edit genes by CRISPR
  • DNA modifications in humans to enhance our abilities – an ethical dilemma
  • Will expensive gene therapy widen the gap between the rich and the poor?
  • Cloning: the good and the Bad for a Generation
  • The disadvantages of cloning
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15 Environmental and Ecology Topics for Your Research

The nature around us is so enormous and includes many branches to investigate. If you are keen on the environment and how ecology affects it, the list of follow-up biology paper topics might be helpful to you.

  • The theory of evolution
  • How does natural selection work?
  • How do living organisms adapt to their environment?
  • The concept of divergent and convergent evolution
  • Building a sustainable environment
  • Development of environment-friendly cities
  • How to control population growth?
  • Why have recycling resources become so essential in the modern world?
  • The effect of plastic on the environment
  • What are the global consequences of deforestation?
  • What can we expect when losing biodiversity?
  • Ecological damage: How to prevent it?
  • How can GMO products affect ecology?
  • Cloning endangered or extinct species: Is it a good idea?
  • Is climate change the main reason for disrupting ecology?

15 Plant Pathology Biology Research Topics

Many factors impact human health and the quality of food products matters. These easy biology research topics will be useful if you want to describe the connection between those two concepts.

  • How do plants protect themselves from diseases?
  • How to increase the plant’s resistance to diseases?
  • Diseases distribution among plants
  • The banana pandemic
  • How do herbicides influence plants?
  • Corn blight
  • Can any plant diseases affect humans?
  • The issue of stem rust and its impact on wheat
  • What approaches are used to struggle against invasive plants and affected weeds?
  • Fertilizers: their pros and cons on plants
  • Plant disease genetics: its system and structure
  • What is the connection between ecological changes and plant diseases?
  • Modifications on food production because of plant diseases
  • How do fungal and viral diseases appear in plants?
  • The sweet potato virus

15 Animals Biology Research Topics

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t like animals. If you are curious about animals scientifically, here you are with biology research paper topics in this field.

  • Classification of animals
  • Land-based life: its evolution history
  • Controversies about keeping animals as pets
  • Is it ethical to test drugs and products on animals?
  • Why do nature reserves against zoos?
  • Evidence on prehistoric aquatic animals growing giant
  • What species of animals are vegan?
  • Animals and their social behavior
  • Primate behavior
  • How intelligent can other primates be?
  • Are wolves and dogs intelligent?
  • Domesticating animals
  • Hibernation in animals
  • Why animals migrate
  • Should we bring back extinct animals?

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15 Marine Biology Research Topics

The marine theme is engaging as it reveals so many interesting facts about life forms dwelling under the water. You can make your paper look captivating using biology topics in marine below.

  • How acidification affects aquatic environments
  • Evolution in the deep sea
  • What’s the meaning of camouflage mechanism in sea life?
  • Consequences of oil spills on marine life
  • Oldest marine species
  • How do whales communicate with each other?
  • How blind fish navigate
  • Are marine shows and aquariums ethical?
  • The biology and life cycle of seabirds
  • How jellyfish are immortal
  • Plankton ecology
  • Difference between freshwater and seawater marine life
  • Coral reefs: their importance and evolution
  • Saving and restoring coral reefs
  • Life in the deep-sea ocean trenches

15 Zoology Research Topics

Zoology can be an excellent choice to write about if you are close to animal studies. Look at biology topics to research and choose the one that fits your interest most.

  • Asian elephants and human speech patterns
  • Oyster genomes and adaptation
  • Darwin’s work in the Galápagos Islands
  • Asian carp: Invasive species analysis
  • Giant squids: Fact vs. fiction
  • Coyote and wolf hybrid species in the United States
  • Parasites and disease
  • Migration patterns of killer bees
  • The treatment of species in Melville’s Moby Dick
  • Biodiversity and plankton
  • The role of camels and the development of Africa and the Middle East
  • Muskellunge and adaptive creek mechanisms to small water
  • Ants and cooperative behavior among species
  • Animal communication and the origin of language
  • Speech in African Gray Parrots

15 Genetics Research Topics

Writing about modifications caused on the gene level is pretty challenging but very fascinating. You can select one among the biological questions for research and bring up a meaningful paper.

  • Genetics and its role in cancer studies
  • Can genetic code be confidential?
  • Is it possible to choose the sex of a person before birth?
  • Genetics as a ray of hope for children with an intellectual disability
  • What factors in human genetics affect behavior?
  • Is it somehow possible to improve human personality through genetics?
  • Are there any living cells in the gene?
  • Fighting HIV with gene mutations
  • Genetic mutations
  • How addictive substances affect genes
  • Genetic testing: is it necessary?
  • Cloning: positive or negative outcome for future generations
  • Pros and cons of genetic engineering
  • Is the world ready for the bioethics revolution?
  • The linkage between genetics and obesity

15 Biotechnology Research Topics

The way scientists conduct research today is magnificent. Implementing high-tech innovations in biology research brings new opportunities to study the world. What are these opportunities? Explore biotechnology research topics for college students and disclose the best options for you.

  • Biotechnology used in plant research
  • What is the contribution of biotechnology to food?
  • Pharmacogenetics: What is it, and how it works?
  • How are anti-cancer drugs produced to be effective?
  • Nanotechnology in DNA: How to isolate it?
  • Recent nanotechnology used in HIV treatment
  • What biotech apps are used to detect foodborne pathogens in food systems?
  • Genotypes research: Why are they tolerant and sensitive to heavy metal?
  • High-tech solutions in diagnosing cancer
  • Forensic DNA and its latest developments
  • Metabolic changes at the level of cells
  • Nanotechnology in improving treatments for respiratory viruses
  • The latest biotech discoveries
  • Digital evolution: bioresearch and its transformation
  • The concept of vaccine development

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15 Evolutionary Biology Research Topics

Knowing how life forms started their existence is fundamental. And more interesting is to look through the evolution of many processes. If you find this trend of research more engaging, we outlined evolutionary biology research paper topics to diversify your choice.

  • Darwin’s concept’s impact on science
  • The evolution concept by Lamarck
  • Origins of the evolutionary theory
  • Evolution acceptance: a belief vs. a theory?
  • Evolutionary in microbiology
  • Development of robotics
  • Revealing differences: human brain & animal brain
  • Preservation of biological resources
  • Transformations in aging
  • Adaptive genetic system
  • Morphometrics’ history
  • Developmental theory and population genomics
  • Bacteria ecology’s evolution
  • Biological changes: impact and evolution
  • Infectious diseases and their profession

The world of science and biology is vast, making research tedious. Use our list of interesting biology research topics to choose the best issue to write your own paper.

However, it is still hard to prepare a high-quality biology research paper, even with a brilliant topic. Not all college students can do it. Do you feel like you need some help? Then buy biology paper from our professional writers! Our experts will choose the best biology experimental research topics for you and can bring up top-level papers within the shortest time. Additionally, if you need help with a statistics project related to biology, our team of experienced professionals is equipped to provide you with the utmost quality of research and analysis.

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212 Unique Biology Research Topics For Students And Researchers

biology research topics

Every student studying something related to biology — botany, marine, animal, medicine, molecular or physical biology, is in an interesting field. It’s a subject that explores how animate and inanimate objects relate to themselves. The field unveils the past, the present, and what lies in the future of the relationship between the living and nonliving things.

This is precisely why you need custom and quality biology topics for your college and university essay or project. It’ll make it easy to brainstorm, research, and get to writing straight away. Before the deep dive, what is biology?

What Is Biology?

Everyone knows it’s the scientific study of life, but beyond that, biology facilitates the comprehension of living and nonliving things. It’s a branch that explores their anatomy, behavior, distribution, morphology, and physiology.

For example, it understands how genes are classified and constituted into generations. It encompasses various branches, including botany, medicine, genetics, ecology, marine biology, zoology, and molecular biology.

Here are what some of these mean:

Botany: This study of plants examines their structure, physiology, ecology, economic importance, and distribution, among others. It also deals with their biochemical processes, properties, and social interactions between plants. It extends to how plants are vital for human life, survival, and growth and how they play a significant role in stabilizing environmental health. Zoology: Zoology studies animal behavior, brain, structure, physiology, class, and distribution. It’s the general study of the lives of both living and extinct animals. It explains animal classification, the animal kingdom, evolution, habitat, embryology, and life span. Physiology: Physiology deals with the daily functions of the human body: How it works and the factors that make it work. It examines molecular behavior, the chemistry and physics behind locomotion, and how the cells in the living organisms’ body function. It helps understand how humans and animals get sick and what can be done to alleviate pain. Microbiology: Dealing with microorganisms, it examined how viruses, algae, fungi, bacteria, protozoa, and slime molds become parts of human life. They’re regarded as microbes, which play substantial roles in the human biochemical processes, including climate change, biodegradation, biodeterioration, food spoilage, biotech, and epidemiology. Marine Biology: This is the scientific study of organs in the sea. It understands their family classification, how they survive, and what makes wild marine animals different from domesticated and consumable ones. It also explores their interaction with the environment through several processes. The marine biologist studies marines in their natural environment, collects data on their characteristics, human impact on their living, and how they relate with themselves.

Now that you know all these, here are some custom biology topics to research for your university or college essay and paper.

Controversial Biology Topics

There are many controversial subjects in every field, and biology isn’t exempt from controversy. If you’d like to create an original essay through diverse opinions, here are biology topics for you:

  • What are your thoughts on the post-Roe V Wade world?
  • How can the post-Roe V Wade policy affect developing countries looking up to America for their laws?
  • Abortion and feminism: discuss
  • Does saving life justify cloning?
  • Explain the principle of abortion in medical practice
  • The effects of cloning in medicine
  • How does genetics contribute to obesity?
  • Explain why a parent could have Hepatitis B virus and only one of five offspring have the virus
  • Is homosexuality really in the gene?
  • How does depression correlate with genetics?
  • Additives and how they affect the genes
  • Examine how genetic mutations work
  • Discuss the grounds that you could prove for legalizing human cloning
  • Which is more immoral: Human or animal cloning?
  • How is nanotechnology different from biotechnology?
  • Discuss the manifestation of nanotechnology in science
  • Explain three instances where public opinion has held back scientific inventions
  • How does transgenic crop work?
  • Would you say genetically modified food is safe for consumption?
  • Explain why sexual abuse leads to trauma.

Biology Research Paper Topics

You’d need to write an extensive paper on biology one day. This could be when you’re in your final year in college or the university or submitting to a competition. You’d need Biology topics to research for brainstorming, and here are 30 of them:

  • Stem cells and tissue formation processes
  • Why are there different congenital disabilities?
  • Mixtures in anticancer drugs?
  • What are the complexities of existing HIV drugs?
  • What is the contribution of chemotherapy to cancer?
  • Examine the chemotherapy process and why it doesn’t work for some patients.
  • Explain the origin of developmental diseases
  • How do germs affect the cells?
  • What are the consequences of the sun on the white person’s and black person’s skin?
  • Why are some diseases treatable through drugs while some are not?
  • Scientific lessons learned from COVID-19 and ideas to tackle the next virus
  • If animals are carriers of the virus, what should be done to them?
  • Examine five animals in extinction and what led to it
  • Discuss the subject of endangered species and why people should care
  • Is a plant-based diet sustainable for human health?
  • Account for the consequence of living on Mars on human health
  • Discuss the inconveniences involved in space travel
  • How does space flight contribute to environmental disasters
  • Discuss the emergence of leukemia
  • Explain how the immune systems in humans work
  • Evaluate the factors that weaken the immunological system
  • What would you consider the deadliest virus?
  • Autoimmune: what is it, origin and consequences
  • Immune disorder: origin and how it affects the body
  • Does stress affect the ability to have sex?
  • Contribution of vaccine to eradicating disease: Discuss
  • What are the complexities in taking the Hepatitis B vaccine while being positive?
  • Allergies: why do humans have them?
  • DNA modification: how does it work?
  • Explain the misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Interesting Biology Topics

Biology doesn’t have to be boring. Different aspects of biology could be fun to explore, especially if you’ve had a flair for the study since your elementary school classes.

You can either write an essay or paper with the following interesting biology research topics:

  • Human emotions and conflicts with their intellectual intelligence
  • Emotions: Its influence on art and music and how the perception of art influences the world
  • The consequences of marijuana and alcohol on teenagers
  • Compare and contrast how alcohol affects teenagers and adults
  • Discuss the contributions of neuroscience to the subject of emotional pain
  • Explain how the brain process speech
  • Discuss the factors that cause autism
  • Explain what is meant when people say humans are animals
  • Why do scientists say humans are pessimists?
  • Factors contributing to the dopamine levels human experience
  • How does isolation affect the human brain?
  • What factors contribute to instinctive responses?
  • Noise pollution: how it affects living organisms
  • Fire ecology: The contributions of plants to fire outbreak
  • Explain the science behind how hot temperature, soil, and dry grass start a fire
  • Microbes: what do you understand by bioremediation?
  • Explain urban ecology and the challenges it pokes to solve
  • Discuss how excessive internet usage affects the human memory
  • Evaluate how conservation biology contributes to the extinction prevention efforts
  • Discuss the role of satellites and drones in understanding the natural world
  • Why do we need space travel and studies?
  • Explain the limitations of limnology studies
  • What are infectious-disease-causing agents all about?
  • Discuss what epigenetics studies encompass
  • Why is cancer research essential to the world?
  • Discuss climate change: Governments are not interested, and there is no alternative
  • How is behavioral science studies a core part of the understanding of the world?
  • Discuss the issues with genetic engineering and why it’s a challenge
  • Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses in the arguments for a plant-based diet
  • Create a survey amongst students of biology asking why they chose to study the course.

Biology Research Topics For College Students

If you find any of the above beyond your intellectual and Research capacity, here are some topics you can handle. You can use these for your essays, projects, quizzes, or competitions.

These custom yet popular biology research topics will examine famous personalities and other discourse in biology:

  • Effects of the human hormone on the mind
  • Why do men get erect even when they’re absentminded?
  • How does women’s arousal work?
  • How can melatonin be valuable for therapy?
  • Risky behavior: Hormones responsible for the risk
  • Stem and cloning: what is the latest research on the subject?
  • Hormones: changes in pregnancy
  • Why do pregnant women have an appetite for random and remote things?
  • The role of physical activities in hormone development
  • Examine the benefits and threats of transgenic crops
  • The fight against COVID-19: assess current successes
  • The fight against smallpox: assess current successes
  • The fight against HIV: history, trends, and present research
  • Discuss the future of prosthetic appliances
  • Examine the research and the future of mind-controlled limbs
  • What does cosmetic surgery mean, and why is it needed?
  • Analyze the meaning and process of vascular surgery
  • Discuss the debate around changes in genital organs for males and females in transgender bodies
  • How do donors and organ transplants work?
  • Account for the work of Dr. Malcom E Miller
  • Discuss the contribution of Charles Darwin to human evolution
  • Explain the trends in biomedicine
  • Discuss the functions of x-rays in botany
  • Assess the most efficient systems for wildlife preservation
  • Examine how poverty contributes to climate hazards
  • Discuss the process involved in plant metabolism
  • The transformation of energy into a living thing: discuss
  • Prevention for sexually transmitted disease: What are the misconceptions?
  • Analyze how the human body reacts to poison
  • Russian Poisoning: What are the lessons scientists must learn?
  • COVID-19: Discuss the efforts by two or three governments to prevent the spread
  • Discuss the contributions of Pfizer during the pandemic.

Marine Biology Research Topics

This subject explains orgasms in the sea, how they survive, and their interaction with their environment. If you have a flair for this field, the following Biology research topics may interest you:

  • Discuss what quantitative ecology through modeling means
  • Smallest diatoms and marine logistics: discuss
  • How is the shark studied?
  • Acidification of seas: Causes and consequences
  • Discuss the concept of the immortality of Jellyfishes
  • Discuss the differences between seawater and freshwater in marine study
  • Account for some of the oldest marine species
  • Discuss the evolution of the deep sea
  • Explain whales’ communication techniques
  • What does plankton ecology encompass?
  • The importance of coral reefs to seawater
  • Challenges that encompass geological oceanography
  • How tourism affects natural animal habitat
  • Discuss some instances of the domestication of wild marine animals
  • Coastal zone: pros and cons of living in such areas
  • How do sharks perceive enemies?
  • Analyze why some animals can live in water but can’t live on land
  • Explain how plants survive in the sea
  • Compare and contrast the different two species of animals in the water
  • How can marine energy be generated, stored, and used?

Molecular Biology Research Topics

Focusing on the construct of cells and analysis of their composition, it understands the alteration and maintenance of cellular processes. If you’d like to focus on molecular biology, here are 15 good biology research topics for you:

  • Ethical considerations in molecular genetics
  • Discuss the structure and component of the gene
  • Examine the restrictions in DNA
  • What are the peculiarities in modern nucleic acid analysis
  • What goes into the Pharmaceutical production of drugs
  • Evaluate the building blocks of life
  • Discuss the systems of RNA translation to protein
  • PCR: How DNA is tested and analyzed
  • Why is prion disease so dangerous?
  • Compare and contrast recessive genes vs. dominant genes
  • Can there be damage to the human DNA, and can it be repaired?
  • Constraints in the research of microarray data analysis
  • Protein purification: How it evolves
  • Objectives of nucleic acid
  • Explain the structure of a prion.

Biology Research Topics For High School

Your teachers and professors will be awed if you create impeccable essays for your next report. You need to secure the best grades as you move closer to graduation, and brainstorming any of these popular biology research topics will help:

  • Identify the most endangered species
  • The challenges to animal extinction
  • What are the things everyone should know about sea life?
  • Discuss the history of genetics
  • Explain the biological theory of Charles Darwin
  • How did the lockdown affect social interaction?
  • Why do some people refuse the vaccine?
  • Origin of genetics
  • What is animal hunting, and why is it fashionable
  • Explain the evolution of a virus
  • Role of lockdown in preventing deaths and illnesses
  • Invasive species: What does it mean?
  • Endangered animals: How do they survive in the face of their hazards?
  • Lockdown and their role in reducing coronavirus transmission
  • Vaccine distribution: Ideas for global distribution
  • Why can viruses become less virulent?
  • Discuss the evolution of the world
  • Explain the evolution of the planet
  • Explain what Elon Musk means when he says life on Mars is possible
  • What does herd immunity mean?
  • Flu: why is there a low incidence in 2020?
  • Relationship between archaeology and biology
  • Antiviral drug: What it means
  • Factors leading to the evolution of humans
  • Give instances of what natural selection means
  • What is considered the dead branches of evolution
  • Whale hunting: What it means and the present trends
  • Who is Stephen Jay, and what is his role in paleontology?
  • Origin of diseases: why must humans fall sick?
  • Why are humans called higher animals?

Human Biology Research Topics

Human biology understands humans and their relationship between themselves and their environment. It also studies how the body works and the impediments to health. Here are some easy biology research topics to explore on the subject:

  • How do gut bacteria affect the brain?
  • What are the ethical concerns around organ transplants?
  • The consequence of alcohol on the liver
  • The consequences of extreme salt on the human body
  • Why do humans need to deworm regularly?
  • The relationship between obesity and genetics
  • Genetically modified foods: Why are they needed?
  • How sun exposure affects human skin
  • Latest trends: Depression is hereditary
  • Influence of music on the human brain
  • What are the stages of lung cancer
  • Forensic DNA: latest trends
  • How visual consumptions affect how humans think
  • What is the process that leads to pregnancy?
  • Explain the role of nanotechnology in HIV research
  •  Discuss any experiment with stem cells you know about
  • Explain how humans consume food
  • Discuss the process of metabolism as well as its criticality to human health
  • Explore the consistent challenges technology poses to human health
  • Explain the process of body decay to a skeleton.

Cell Biology Research Topics

There are many evolutionary biology research paper topics formed not by the nomenclature but for what they stand for. Cell biology is one of the most complex branches of the field.

It examines minor units and the living organisms that make them up. The focus is on the relationship between the cytoplasm, membrane, and parts of the cell. Here are some topics to explore for your scientific dissertation writing :

  • How does chromatin engage in the alterations of gene expression?
  • What are the usual cell infections, and why does the body have immunity defections?
  • Identify and account for the heritage of Robert Brown in his core career focus
  • Explain the structure of the animal cell and why It’s what it is
  • Identify the cells in the human body as well as their functions
  • Explain a scenario and justify the context of animals photosynthesizing like plants
  • Why do bacteria invade the body, and how do they do it?
  • Why are mitochondria considered the powerhouse of the cell
  • Use the molecular analysis tool to explain multicellular organisms
  • Examine how the White blood cells fight disease
  • What do you understand about the role of cell biology in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
  • What are the latest research methods in cell biology?
  • Identify the characteristics of viruses and why they threaten human existence.
  • Discuss the differences between DNA and RNA
  • What part of the body is responsible for human functionality for as long as the individual wants?

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Home » 350+ Biology Research Topics

350+ Biology Research Topics

Biology Research Topics

Biology is a vast field of study that explores the diverse aspects of life, from the smallest organisms to the complex ecosystems they inhabit. With new discoveries being made every day, the field of biology is constantly evolving and expanding. As a result, there are numerous research topics within biology that can capture the imagination of students, researchers , and professionals alike. Whether you’re interested in genetics, ecology, microbiology, or any other subfield of biology, there is no shortage of fascinating topics to explore. In this post, we will discuss some of the most compelling biology research topics that you can delve into.

Biology Research Topics

Biology Research Topics are as follows:

  • The role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
  • The effects of climate change on animal behavior and physiology.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cancer development and progression.
  • The evolutionary origins of human language.
  • The impact of pesticides on insect populations and ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of aging and longevity.
  • The ecological importance of microbial communities in soil.
  • The physiology and behavior of marine mammals.
  • The molecular mechanisms of viral infections.
  • The evolutionary history of flowering plants.
  • The ecological impacts of invasive species.
  • The role of epigenetics in gene regulation and disease.
  • The evolution of social behavior in animals.
  • The physiology and ecology of birdsong.
  • The impact of antibiotics on gut microbiota and human health.
  • The role of the microbiome in psychiatric disorders.
  • The evolutionary history of human migrations.
  • The ecological and physiological effects of light pollution on animals.
  • The mechanisms of cell division and differentiation.
  • The ecological impacts of deforestation.
  • The molecular mechanisms of drug addiction.
  • The genetic basis of plant resistance to pests and diseases.
  • The evolutionary history of human diet and nutrition.
  • The molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases.
  • The ecology and evolution of sexual selection.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on animals.
  • The role of epigenetics in plant development and stress response.
  • The evolutionary history of animal domestication.
  • The molecular mechanisms of genetic diseases.
  • The ecological impacts of climate change on plants.
  • The evolutionary history of human mating systems.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of noise pollution on animals.
  • The genetic basis of intelligence and cognitive abilities.
  • The ecological and physiological effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms.
  • The molecular mechanisms of immune system function and dysfunction.
  • The evolutionary history of human social structures.
  • The ecological impacts of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of animal migration.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light and dark cycles on animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of symbiosis.
  • The molecular mechanisms of gene regulation and expression.
  • The evolutionary history of human disease resistance.
  • The ecological impacts of overfishing on marine ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of animal communication.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of temperature changes on animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of parasitism.
  • The molecular mechanisms of circadian rhythms.
  • The evolutionary history of human social cognition.
  • The ecological impacts of urbanization on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • The impact of climate change on insect population dynamics.
  • The role of the microbiome in the development of autoimmune diseases.
  • The genetic basis of complex human diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
  • The evolution of plant secondary metabolites and their ecological functions.
  • The effects of anthropogenic noise on animal communication and behavior.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein synthesis and folding.
  • The role of RNA in gene expression and regulation.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial symbioses in plants.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air temperature changes on animals.
  • The genetic basis of crop domestication and improvement.
  • The evolution of reproductive strategies in animals.
  • The impacts of plastic pollution on terrestrial ecosystems.
  • The molecular mechanisms of stem cell differentiation and regeneration.
  • The ecological dynamics of predator-prey interactions.
  • The role of gut microbiota in the regulation of host metabolism.
  • The genetic basis of host-pathogen coevolution.
  • The evolution of social cognition and cooperation in animals.
  • The ecological and physiological effects of wildfires on ecosystems.
  • The molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation in eukaryotic cells.
  • The role of microorganisms in soil nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning.
  • The genetic basis of plant-pathogen interactions.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in the ocean.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of water pollution on aquatic organisms.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein degradation and turnover.
  • The impact of urbanization on pollinator populations and plant-pollinator interactions.
  • The genetic basis of insecticide resistance in pests.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and perception.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of host-parasite interactions.
  • The role of epigenetic modifications in plant adaptation to environmental stress.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of endocrine disruptors on animals.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and repair.
  • The impact of ocean warming on coral reef ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of animal personality traits.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial symbioses in animals.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light quality on plants.
  • The molecular mechanisms of RNA editing and splicing.
  • The role of microbial communities in plant-pathogen interactions.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of seed dispersal.
  • The genetic basis of animal coloration and pattern.
  • The impact of climate change on plant phenology and productivity.
  • The molecular mechanisms of signal transduction in cells.
  • The role of microbial communities in the human gut-brain axis.
  • The ecology and evolution of animal migrations.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of chemical pollution on animals.
  • The genetic basis of animal development and morphogenesis.
  • The evolution of animal social behavior and communication.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-pollinator networks.
  • The molecular mechanisms of intracellular trafficking and transport.
  • The role of microbial communities in the degradation of pollutants.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of species interactions in ecological communities.
  • The role of epigenetics in cancer development and progression.
  • The molecular basis of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
  • The impact of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The genetic basis of aging and age-related diseases.
  • The evolution of social organization in primates.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-fungal interactions.
  • The role of microbiota in immune system development and function.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA damage and repair.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on marine organisms.
  • The genetic basis of human variation and diversity.
  • The evolution of sexual selection and mate choice in animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of species invasions.
  • The role of microbiota in brain function and behavior.
  • The molecular mechanisms of immune system activation and regulation.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of pollution on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of behavioral disorders and mental illness.
  • The evolution of plant-pollinator mutualisms.
  • The ecological dynamics of predator-prey coevolution.
  • The role of microbiota in metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein-protein interactions and signaling.
  • The genetic basis of complex traits such as intelligence and personality.
  • The evolution of animal communication and language.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of mutualistic interactions in ecological communities.
  • The role of microbiota in the development and maintenance of gut homeostasis.
  • The molecular mechanisms of neurotransmitter synthesis and release.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of artificial light at night on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of developmental disorders such as autism and ADHD.
  • The evolution of host-parasite coevolution and adaptation.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-herbivore interactions.
  • The role of microbiota in the regulation of metabolism and energy balance.
  • The molecular mechanisms of membrane transport and signaling.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of habitat fragmentation on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of circadian rhythms and sleep disorders.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and decision-making.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of trophic cascades.
  • The role of microbiota in the development and function of the respiratory system.
  • The molecular mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of endocrine disruptors on wildlife.
  • The genetic basis of developmental plasticity and adaptation.
  • The evolution of animal social learning and culture.
  • The ecological dynamics of predator-prey interactions in aquatic systems.
  • The role of microbiota in the regulation of host immunity and inflammation.
  • The molecular mechanisms of RNA interference and gene silencing.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on migratory animals.
  • The genetic basis of drug addiction and substance abuse disorders.
  • The evolution of animal cooperation and conflict resolution.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of niche construction.
  • The role of microbiota in the regulation of host-microbe interactions.
  • The molecular mechanisms of gene regulation by non-coding RNAs.
  • The role of epigenetics in gene expression and regulation.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA damage response and repair.
  • The impact of environmental toxins on human health.
  • The evolutionary origins of viruses and their impact on hosts.
  • The genetics of aging and age-related diseases.
  • The impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms.
  • The molecular basis of cancer development and progression.
  • The genetic basis of behavior in animals.
  • The impact of environmental stressors on plant growth and productivity.
  • The evolution of sex determination and sexual selection.
  • The role of the immune system in host-microbe interactions.
  • The molecular mechanisms of circadian rhythms and sleep.
  • The impact of air pollution on respiratory health.
  • The genetic basis of speciation and hybridization.
  • The role of neurotransmitters in brain function and behavior.
  • The ecological dynamics of microbial communities in soil.
  • The impact of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
  • The molecular mechanisms of viral entry, replication, and release.
  • The genetics of plant domestication and diversification.
  • The role of mitochondrial DNA in aging and disease.
  • The impact of deforestation on ecosystem functioning.
  • The molecular basis of drug addiction and treatment.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation and evolution in response to environmental change.
  • The role of gut-brain signaling in behavior and disease.
  • The impact of noise pollution on wildlife populations.
  • The genetic basis of plant morphology and development.
  • The role of the microbiome in disease susceptibility and resistance.
  • The ecological dynamics of plant-insect interactions.
  • The impact of agricultural practices on soil health and biodiversity.
  • The molecular mechanisms of gene regulation in development and disease.
  • The genetic basis of complex traits in humans and animals.
  • The role of cytokines in immune response and inflammation.
  • The ecological dynamics of microbial communities in aquatic ecosystems.
  • The impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems.
  • The molecular mechanisms of genome stability and repair.
  • The genetics of rare and common genetic diseases.
  • The role of the endocannabinoid system in health and disease.
  • The ecological dynamics of competition and cooperation in populations.
  • The impact of light pollution on wildlife behavior and ecology.
  • The genetic basis of animal migration and navigation.
  • The role of the microbiome in host metabolism and energy balance.
  • The impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and food security.
  • The molecular mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance and transmission.
  • The genetics of human brain development and disorders.
  • The role of pheromones in animal communication and behavior.
  • The ecological dynamics of host-microbe-pathogen interactions.
  • The effect of diet and nutrition on gut microbiome diversity and composition.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial interactions in the soil.
  • The role of epigenetic modifications in cancer development and progression.
  • The impact of climate change on marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial respiration and ATP synthesis.
  • The role of non-coding RNAs in gene regulation and disease.
  • The evolution and diversification of flowering plants.
  • The effects of artificial light at night on animal behavior and physiology.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to extreme environments.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-microbe interactions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of noise pollution on wildlife.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA methylation and histone modification.
  • The role of microbial communities in the cycling of nutrients in aquatic ecosystems.
  • The evolution of animal color vision and perception.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of mutualistic interactions.
  • The impact of deforestation on soil fertility and carbon storage.
  • The molecular mechanisms of viral replication and pathogenesis.
  • The role of microorganisms in the biodegradation of plastics.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in the human gut.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on birds.
  • The impact of invasive species on native ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of developmental disorders and intellectual disabilities.
  • The evolution of animal behavior and communication in response to anthropogenic change.
  • The ecological dynamics of soil carbon sequestration and storage.
  • The role of microbial communities in the decomposition of organic matter.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on plants.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cellular differentiation and tissue development.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-animal interactions.
  • The genetic basis of resistance to herbicides and pesticides in crops.
  • The impact of urbanization on bird diversity and distribution.
  • The role of microorganisms in the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in soil.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of invasive species interactions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on reptiles and amphibians.
  • The role of microbial communities in the degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons.
  • The genetic basis of plant development and growth.
  • The evolution of animal migration and dispersal.
  • The impact of land use change on freshwater biodiversity.
  • The molecular mechanisms of membrane transport and ion channels.
  • The role of microorganisms in the cycling of sulfur and phosphorus in soil.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of ocean acidification on marine organisms.
  • The genetic basis of behavior and personality traits in humans.
  • The evolution of plant reproductive strategies and pollination systems.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of predator-prey coevolution.
  • The impact of environmental stressors on gene expression and epigenetics.
  • The evolution of sexual reproduction and mating systems in plants.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioremediation of contaminated sites.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of climate change on fish.
  • The molecular mechanisms of chromatin remodeling and gene regulation.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to high altitude environments.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-insect interactions.
  • The impact of pesticide use on insect biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The role of microorganisms in nitrogen fixation and cycling.
  • The genetic basis of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline.
  • The evolution of social behavior and cooperation in animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of plant invasions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of noise pollution on humans.
  • The molecular mechanisms of RNA splicing and alternative splicing.
  • The role of microorganisms in biogeochemical cycling of trace elements.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to extreme temperatures.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in soil and water.
  • The impact of climate change on insect phenology and distribution.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein folding and misfolding.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of environmental pollutants.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and intelligence.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of predator-prey interactions.
  • The impact of anthropogenic noise on marine mammals.
  • The role of microorganisms in biofilm formation and quorum sensing.
  • The genetic basis of speciation and hybridization in plants.
  • The evolution of parental care and offspring development in animals.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of food web interactions.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on human health.
  • The molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation and gene expression.
  • The role of microorganisms in plant growth promotion and disease suppression.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to drought stress in crops.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial interactions in the ocean.
  • The impact of land use change on soil erosion and nutrient cycling.
  • The molecular mechanisms of autophagy and programmed cell death.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of pharmaceuticals.
  • The genetic basis of immune system variation and disease susceptibility.
  • The evolution of animal social networks and communication systems.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of biodiversity loss.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light pollution on nocturnal animals.
  • The molecular mechanisms of DNA repair and genome stability.
  • The role of microorganisms in the production of biofuels and bioplastics.
  • The genetic basis of adaptation to salinity stress in plants.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial symbioses with plants and animals.
  • The impact of climate change on plant-pollinator interactions.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cellular senescence and aging.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of synthetic organic compounds.
  • The genetic basis of variation in complex traits in humans.
  • The evolution of animal social behavior and cultural transmission
  • The genetic basis of cancer development and progression.
  • The role of microorganisms in the gut microbiome and human health.
  • The genetic basis of phenotypic plasticity and adaptation in plants.
  • The evolution of animal migration and navigation.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of community assembly.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light and dark cycles on circadian rhythms.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein synthesis and degradation.
  • The role of microorganisms in nitrogen and carbon cycling in aquatic ecosystems.
  • The genetic basis of sex determination and differentiation in animals.
  • The ecology and evolution of predator-prey coevolution.
  • The impact of anthropogenic activities on marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioleaching and biomining of metals.
  • The genetic basis of inherited disorders and genetic diseases.
  • The evolution of animal social behavior and communication systems.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of competition and coexistence.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of endocrine disruptors on human health.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cell division and mitosis.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of plastics and synthetic materials.
  • The genetic basis of epigenetic inheritance and regulation.
  • The ecology and evolution of mutualistic symbioses in plants and animals.
  • The impact of habitat fragmentation on species diversity and ecosystem functioning.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioremediation of oil spills.
  • The genetic basis of drug resistance in pathogens and cancer cells.
  • The evolution of animal personality and individual variation.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of biotic interactions in freshwater ecosystems.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of artificial sweeteners on human health.
  • The molecular mechanisms of intracellular trafficking and secretion.
  • The role of microorganisms in biocontrol of plant pathogens and pests.
  • The genetic basis of hybridization and introgression in animals and plants.
  • The ecology and evolution of plant-pollinator mutualisms.
  • The impact of climate change on marine ecosystems and fisheries.
  • The molecular mechanisms of genome editing and gene therapy.
  • The role of microorganisms in biogas production and carbon capture.
  • The genetic basis of developmental disorders and birth defects.
  • The evolution of animal coloration and camouflage.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of invasive species.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of air pollution on wildlife.
  • The molecular mechanisms of signal transduction and cell signaling.
  • The role of microorganisms in biodegradation of pharmaceuticals and personal care products.
  • The genetic basis of reproductive isolation and speciation.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial interactions with plants and insects.
  • The impact of climate change on bird migration and breeding patterns.
  • The molecular mechanisms of protein-protein interactions and protein complexes.
  • The role of microorganisms in bioremediation of heavy metals.
  • The evolution of animal cognition and learning.
  • The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of biodiversity hotspots.
  • The impact of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems.
  • The genetics of complex diseases and personalized medicine.
  • The evolution of plant defense mechanisms against herbivores.
  • The role of microorganisms in soil carbon sequestration.
  • The physiological and behavioral effects of light on plant growth and development.
  • The molecular mechanisms of cancer metastasis and invasion.
  • The ecology and evolution of microbial communities in the human body.
  • The impact of climate change on migratory bird populations.

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Hello fellow students! I'm working on a biology research project for my school's science fair and I want to explore an interesting topic. Do you have any suggestions for unique biology research topics or ideas that could make my project stand out in the college admissions process?

Hello! It's always exciting to dive into a fascinating biology research topic for a science fair. To help make your project stand out in the college admissions process, I'd recommend choosing a topic that demonstrates your passion and curiosity for biology while addressing a current problem or emerging field. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:

1. CRISPR & Gene Editing: Investigate the potential applications and ethical implications of CRISPR technology. You could focus on its use in curing genetic diseases or the controversy surrounding "designer babies."

2. Microbiome Research: Examine the role of gut bacteria in human health and disease, exploring how changes in the microbiome impact our immune system, metabolism, or mental health.

3. Bioluminescence: Research the various applications of bioluminescence, such as using glowing bacteria to detect environmental pollutants or creating bio-luminescent plants as an alternative to electric lighting.

4. Synthetic Biology: Explore the field of synthetic biology and its potential applications in areas like biofuels, medicine, and environmental remediation.

5. Epigenetics: Investigate how epigenetic changes, influenced by factors such as diet, stress, or environmental exposures, can affect gene expression and contribute to disease development.

6. Climate Change & Ecosystems: Study the impact of climate change on ecosystems and species, such as how changes in temperature and precipitation are affecting species distribution, behavior, or adaptability.

7. Invasive Species: Research invasive species and the threats they pose to native ecosystems. You could focus on strategies for controlling their spread or the challenges of eradicating them.

8. Antibiotic Resistance: Dive into the issue of antibiotic resistance and the potential consequences for human health. Investigate alternative methods for fighting bacterial infections or strategies to reduce the development of resistance.

9. Biodegradable Plastics: Look into biodegradable plastics as an eco-friendly solution to conventional petroleum-based plastics. Explore their potential applications, as well as the challenges in producing and disposing of them.

Remember to choose a topic that truly interests you and aligns with your future goals, as it will make the research process more enjoyable and impactful. Best of luck with your science fair project!

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Top 100 biology research topics for high school and college.

biology research topics

Writing a biology essay may not sound like a very difficult thing to do. In fact, most students really like this subject. The problem is not that you can’t write a good paper on a topic in biology. The problem is with finding excellent biology research topics. Now, you may be wondering why you would want to invest so much time into finding great biology research paper topics. After all, what you write in the essay matters more than the topic, right? Wrong! We are here to tell you that professors really appreciate interesting and unique topics.

And it makes a lot of sense, if you think about it. If you simply pick one of the most popular biology research topics, you will never be able to pique the interest of your teacher. He has read dozens, if not hundreds, or papers on that exact same topic. What you want to do is come up with interesting biology research topics. You want to find topics that none of your classmates are thinking of writing an academic paper about. You will shortly see why this is important. And we will also give you 100 biology topics for research projects that you can use for free – right now!

Biology Research Paper Topics Really Are Important!

It doesn’t matter what area of biology you need to write about. This information applies to everything from zoology and botany to anatomy. The reality is that your professor will really appreciate good topics. And you can rest assured that he or she knows how to spot them. The moment the professor starts to read your paper, he or she will immediately realize that you really did your best to find an excellent topic. And if you write a good introduction paragraph (which contains a captivating thesis statement as well), you are in the best position to earn bonus points.

You may not be aware of it, but teachers are willing to treat great papers with more leniency. This means that you will not get penalized for minor mistakes if you come up with a great topic. In other words, you will get a better grade on your papers if you manage to come up with good research topics for biology. This is a fact and it is based on thousands of pieces of feedback from our readers.

How Do You Choose Good Biology Research Topics?

Choosing research topics for biology can be a daunting task. Frankly, the research paper topics biology students are looking for are not easy to come by. The first thing you want to avoid is going to the first website that pops up in Google and getting your ideas from there. Most of your peers will do the same. Also, avoid topics that are extremely simple. You will simply not have enough ideas to write about. Of course, you should avoid overly complex topics because finding information about them may be extremely difficult.

The best way to find a good topic, in our opinion, is to get in touch with an academic writing company. You will get access to a professional writer who knows exactly what professors are looking for. A writer will quickly give you an amazing research topic in biology.

Eloquent Examples of Popular Biology Research Topics

To make things as simple as possible for you, we’ve put together a list of biology research project ideas. You will find 100 topics on various subjects below. Of course, you can use any of our topics for free. However, keep in mind that even though we are doing our best to maintain this list fresh, other students will find it as well. If you need new topics for your next biology essay, we recommend you to get in touch with us. We monitor our email address, so we can help you right away. Also, you can buy a research paper from our service.

Biology Research Topics for High School

Are you looking for biology research topics for high school? These are relatively simple when compared to college-level topics. Here are a couple of topic ideas that high school students will surely appreciate:

  • Identifying Three Dead Branches of Evolution.
  • What Is Sleep?
  • How Does Physical Exercise Affect the Metabolism?
  • A Behavioral Study of Birds.
  • How Does Music Affect Your Brain?
  • Climate Change and Biodiversity.
  • Are Bees Really Becoming Extinct?
  • Rainforest Extinction Is Dangerous.
  • The Benefits of Organic Farming.
  • Can the Brain Repair Itself?
  • The Effect of Bacteria on Depression.
  • How Do Sea Animals Camouflage?

Research Topics in Biology for Undergraduates

Research topics in biology for undergraduates are more complex than high school or college topics. Our researchers did their best to find topics that are relatively complex. However, each one of the following topics has plenty of information about it online:

  • What Is the Mechanism of Metastasis in Cancer Patients?
  • How Do Tumor Suppressor Genes Appear?
  • How Can We Destroy Cancer Cells Without Damaging Other Cells?
  • The Benefits of Gene Therapy.
  • Analyzing the Huntington’s Disease (the HTT Gene).
  • How Does the down Syndrome (Trisomy of 21st Chromosome) Appear?
  • Analyzing the Brain Activity During an Epileptic Seizure.
  • How Are Our Memories Formed and Preserved?
  • The Effect of Probiotics on Infections.
  • Analyzing Primate Language.
  • Analyzing Primate Cognitive Functions.
  • The Link Between Darwin’s Theory and Biology.

Biology Research Topics for College Students

Biology research topics for college students are of moderate difficulty. They are easier than undergrad topics and more complex than high school topics. While compiling this list, we made sure you have more than enough information online to write the paper quickly:

  • Using DNA Technology in the Field of Medical Genetics.
  • The Effect of Drinking on Embryonic Development.
  • How Are Genes Mapped and Cloned?
  • Explain What Genetic Polymorphism Is.
  • What Is a Hereditary Disease?
  • The Effect of Drugs on Embryonic Development.
  • Describing Oligogenic Diseases (like Hirschsprung Disease)
  • What Is the Mendelian Inheritance?
  • How Transcriptomics and Proteomics Changed Modern Medicine.
  • The Risk Factors of Infertility Explained.
  • How Does Aging Effect Infertility?
  • What Do Ash Elements Do in a Plant?
  • Explaining the Pigments in a Plant Cell.
  • How Is Photosynthesis Done?
  • The Role of Fats in Plant Cells.
  • The Effect of Smoking on Embryonic Development.

Cell Biology Research Topics

Some of the best biology topics are cell biology research topics. The scientific community is constantly making progress in this area, so there is always something new to write about. Here are some of the best examples:

  • What Is Regenerative Medicine?
  • A Closer Look at Tissue Engineering.
  • Discuss the Future of Regenerative Medicine.
  • Analyzing Therapeutic Cloning.
  • The Pros and Cons of Creating Artificial Organs.
  • How Do Cell Age?
  • Can We Reverse Cell Aging?
  • Advances in Cell Therapy.
  • What Is Cell Adhesion?
  • Explaining Cell Division.
  • What Is Cellular Metabolism?
  • Describe Active and Passive Transport in Cells.
  • What Are Cell Plastids?

Evolutionary Biology Research Paper Topics

If you want something more complex, you can try your hand at writing on evolutionary biology research paper topics. As with all our topics, you will be able to find a lot of ideas and information online. Here are our picks:

  • Where Did Plants Come From? (The Evolutionary Theory)
  • Explaining the Host-parasite Coevolution.
  • How Did Parasites Evolve over Time?
  • What Is Natural Selection and How Does It Work?
  • Explain Sexual Selection.
  • Explain Sexual Conflict.
  • How Did Our Immune Systems Evolve?
  • How Do New Species Appear in the Wild?
  • The Evolution of Cell Respiration.
  • What Is the Hippo Pathway? (Developmental Biology)

Various Topics

Antibiotics resistance, agriculture and cloning are hot subjects nowadays. Your professor will surely be interested to learn more about biology research topics. Here is a mix of topic ideas from our established community of academic writers:

  • The Problem of Using Antibiotics on Large Scale.
  • Examining the Effects of Salt on Plants.
  • What Is DNA Technology?
  • The Effects of GMOs on the Human Body.
  • How Is the Quality of Antibiotics Controlled?
  • How Are GMO Food Crops Created?
  • The Effect of Veterinary Antibiotics on Humans.
  • The Allergic Reactions to Specific Antibiotics.
  • A Look at How Penicillin Works in the Human Body.
  • How Are Antibiotics Obtained?
  • What Are Natural Biochemicals with Pest-repellent Properties?
  • The 3 Most Toxic Effects of Antibiotics
  • How the Human Body Develops Resistance to Antibiotics.
  • The Impact of Biology on the Us Agriculture.
  • What Is the Green Revolution?
  • Analyzing the Minerals in the Plant Cell.
  • Analyzing Muscle Development and Regeneration
  • The Uses of Cancer Stem Cells.

Marine Biology Research Topics

There is a lot of talk about global warming, about microplastics in our oceans, and about endangered marine species. This means that marine biology research topics are a very hot topic today. Here are some of our best ideas:

  • Can GMO Organisms Break down Oil after Maritime Accidents?
  • Pollution-absorbing Bio-films.
  • Microbes That Can Absorb Toxic Compounds in the Water.
  • Can We Really Use Bioluminescence?
  • How Is Bio-diesel Created?
  • Analyzing the Coral Reef Biology.
  • Why Is the Lobster Population Dwindling?
  • The Effect of Mass Fishing on the World’s Oceans.
  • Global Warming and Its Effect on Marine Microorganisms.

Molecular Biology Research Topics

Writing about molecular biology research topics is not easy. However, it’s a foolproof way to get a top grade. Your professor will really appreciate your willingness to write an essay about a complex topic. Just make sure you know what you are talking about. Below you can find some of the best topics:

  • How Is Insulin Produced?
  • How Is the Growth Hormone Produced?
  • Analyzing the Repropagation of Translation.
  • What Is DNA-telomerase?
  • The Process of Sequencing Nucleotides in DNA.
  • What Is Telomerase?
  • The Link Between Telomerase and Cancer.
  • The Link Between Telomerase and Aging.
  • How Does DNA Forensics Work?
  • Describe the Process of Protein Metabolism.

There is no such thing as easy biology research topics. When the topic is too simple, you end up getting penalized. You can’t write 500 words about it without straying away from the subject. Also, no matter how interesting the topic may be, you should make sure that the essay is written perfectly. This means that not even interesting biology research topics can save you from a bad grade if you fail to follow all applicable academic writing standards.

Find it hard to cope with your college paper? Great news! Use promo “ mypaper20 ” and enjoy 20% discount on a biology writing assignment from our profs!

chemistry topics

200 Distinctive Biology Research Topics to Write a Killer Paper

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Biology research topics are crucial for students as they deepen their understanding of the natural world and its intricate processes.

Engaging with these topics fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and scientific literacy.

In today’s post, we have compiled a list of biology research paper topics that will help students gain access to valuable insights, up-to-date information, assisting their excellence in their academic pursuits.

After reading this exciting blog post, you’ll know what to expect from a good  paper writing service . So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Unique Biology Research Topics for You to Score High

Writing a research paper  on biology topics can be exciting if you know how to pick the right subject.

Stay up to date with what established biologists are studying and ensure your topic is something you can easily research and back up your ideas with.

Here’s a list of some of the most remarkable topics for an excellent college paper.

Top Biology Research Topics

  • Can drug addiction be regarded as a disease?
  • Discussing Ebola as a biological weapon.
  • How does human memory work?
  • Can we consider immortality a reality?
  • Plant diseases and their causes.
  • Analyzing if  dormant microbes trigger Alzheimer’s ? 
  • The significance of molecular biology in cancer treatment.
  • The difference between bisexuality and homosexuality in animal species.
  • How are obesity and genetics connected?
  • Understanding stem cell research.
  • How are hormones influencing the human body?
  • The most beneficial biological development in history.
  • Basic principles of human cloning.
  • Maintaining the ecosystem and its importance.
  • How are organisms adapting to challenging situations?
  • Understanding the hierarchical structure of single-celled organisms?
  • The primary function of multicellular organisms.
  • Discuss how a fossil supports the theory of evolution.
  • Understanding different cell reproduction types.
  • Reasons why enzymes are essential.
  • Difference between eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
  • The process of photosynthesis.
  • How does human metabolism work?
  • The difference between mitosis and meiosis.
  • Probability of gene inheritance.
  • Understanding the DNA Structure.
  • How is PCR used?
  • The mechanism of cloning.
  • Discussing the carbon cycle mechanisms.
  • Effects of humans on biodiversity.
  • Main factors regulating the dynamics of a population.
  • The modern relatives of dinosaurs.
  • Strategies organisms use for acquiring nutrition.
  • The tree of life.
  • Understanding the concept of natural selection.

As time progresses, biologists are increasingly exploring  animal research topics  in addition to human studies. These subjects encompass investigations into animal evolution, existence, and survival. 

By delving into these areas, researchers comprehensively understand the intricate relationships between various species and their environments, ultimately enhancing our knowledge of the natural world.

Unique Biology Research Topics

Every day, the world of science uncovers new discoveries, with dedicated researchers continuously embarking on medical expeditions.

These efforts have led to the identification of numerous  autism research topics , significantly enhancing our understanding of this complex condition.

As a result, these findings have greatly benefited the field of  special education research , paving the way for improved support and tailored interventions for individuals with autism.

By staying informed on the latest advancements, we can collectively contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society.

If you want your paper to stand out, pick one of these great research topics for your biological research!

  • The role of cells in healing damaged bones.
  • The right amount of protein to consume.
  • Effects of cancer on growth cells.
  • Is it ethically good to research stem cells?
  • Different ways in which cells communicate.
  • How are DNA and the environment connected?
  • Recent developments in cell biochemistry.
  • Can you reverse the process of aging?
  • How are cilia facilitating the cells’ movement?
  • Reasons why cells get sticky.
  • Understanding how the brain keeps memories.
  • Is surgery the only way of treating glaucoma?
  • Understanding protein biosynthesis process.
  • The central dogma of molecular biology – what must you know?
  • Understanding diffusion as a transport technique.
  • The role of microtubules in the nervous system.
  • Ways to improve hypertrophy in the body.
  • The impact of sunburns.
  • The effects of music on the brain.
  • How is learning affected by the sleep and wake cycles?
  • Is drinking more water could prevent extensive sunburns? 
  • The effects of sunlight on biomass.

Easy Biology Research Paper Topics

If you are new to the field of biology, then you can start looking at this list of easy biology research topics.

  • The process of tissue formation.
  • Reasons for the existence of different congenital disabilities.
  • Existing HIV drugs and their complexities.
  • Why does chemotherapy fail for some patients?
  • The effect of germs on the cells.
  • How does the sun affect the skin?
  • Why can’t we treat some diseases with drugs?
  • Ways to treat animals that are carrying the virus.
  • Discuss the five animals in extinction.
  • Why should people care for endangered species?
  • Can humans sustain a plant-based diet?
  • The inconveniences of space travel.
  • The emergence of leukemia.
  • Understanding the human immune system.
  • Factors responsible for weakening the immunological system.
  • The origin and consequences of autoimmune.
  • How immune disorder affects the human body.
  • Effectiveness of vaccines in eradicating a disease.
  • Complexities of taking the Hepatitis B vaccine.
  • Why do humans have allergies?
  • How does DNA modification work?
  • Common misconceptions about COVID-19.

Interesting biology research topics

Looking into biology can be super fun – many cool topics exist. High school and college students can find something that interests them, whether a common topic relevant to the community or something more fascinating. It’s worth checking out!

  • Effects of marijuana and alcohol on teenagers.
  • How is alcohol affecting teenagers and adults?
  • How is neuroscience helpful in coping with emotional pain?
  • How does the brain process speech?
  • Factors that are responsible for autism.
  • Is it true that a human is an animal?
  • The effect of isolation on the human brain.
  • Factors contributing to automatic responses.
  • How is noise pollution affecting living organisms?
  • Understanding the fire ecology.
  • Understanding the term bioremediation.
  • What should we know about urban ecology?
  • Is excessive internet usage damaging to human memory?
  • Understanding the infectious-disease-causing agents.
  • The importance of cancer research.
  • Why is genetic engineering a challenge?
  • The role of melatonin in therapy.
  • Are hormones responsible for risky behavior?
  • What is the latest research on stem and cloning?
  • Physical activities and their role in hormone development.
  • Transgenic crops – benefits and threats.
  • Analyzing the fight against smallpox.
  • The future of prosthetic appliances.
  • Examining mind-controlled limbs.
  • Is cosmetic surgery a need?
  • The significance and process of vascular surgery.
  • Analyzing trends in biomedicine.
  • The functions of X-rays.
  • The most effective way of preserving wildlife.
  • Poverty and its contribution to climate hazards.
  • Analyzing how a human body reacts to poison.
  • The misconceptions about sexually transmitted diseases.
  • The significance of understanding evolutionary biology.

Good biology research topics

If you’re looking for an exciting biology research paper topic, try and find one that offers an unexpected angle on life.

It should be engaging, captivating, and relevant to the world. It’s all about exploring a subject with lots of potential and can help us better grasp life and living organisms.

Here’s another list of great topics for your biology research.

  • Understanding quantitative ecology.
  • The causes of acidification of seas and its consequences.
  • Immortality of jellyfish.
  • The difference between seawater and freshwater.
  • The evolution of the deep sea.
  • The communication techniques of whales.
  • Coral reefs and their importance to seawater.
  • The effects of tourism on natural animal habitats.
  • Is it possible to domesticate wild marine animals?
  • The pros and cons of living in the coastal zone.
  • The survival of plants in the sea.
  • Analyzing two different species of animals in the water.
  • Ways to generate and use marine energy.
  • Molecular genetics and its ethical considerations.
  • Understanding the structure of the gene.
  • Analyzing restrictions in the DNA.
  • Examining the building blocks of life.
  • Understanding why prion disease is so dangerous.
  • Dominant genes vs. recessive genes.
  • Is there a possibility of human DNA getting damaged?
  • What is the objective of nucleic acid?
  • How to cope with the challenge of animal extinction
  • Things we should know about sea life.
  • The history of genetics.
  • How has the lockdown affected social interaction?
  • Reasons behind some people refusing the vaccine.
  • Is animal hunting a fashion or a need?
  • The evolution of a virus.
  • What does invasive species mean?
  • Is life on Mars Possible?
  • Understanding the term’ herd immunity.’
  • How are biology and archaeology related?
  • What should we know about natural selection?
  • The dead branches of evolution.
  • The present trends of whale hunting.

Biology research topics related to cells and more

Advances in cell biology can help treat illnesses and wipe out viruses. Crafting a paper on this topic can be a satisfying experience for any biology student. Here you go with some interesting topics related to cells and more.

  • The effects of gut bacteria on the brain.
  • Ethical concerns around organ transplant.
  • How does alcohol affect the liver?
  • Is obesity related to genetics?
  • Why do we need genetically modified foods?
  • Sun exposure and its effect on the human skin.
  • Is it correct to say that depression is hereditary?
  • How is music influencing the human brain?
  • The latest trends in forensic DNA.
  • The importance of nanotechnology in the treatment of HIV.
  • Understanding how humans consume food.
  • Challenges that technology is posing to human health.
  • The most common cell infections.
  • The structure of the animal cell.
  • The role of cell biology in treating Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Identifying the characteristics of viruses.
  • The difference between RNA and DNA.
  • The hormonal control system of mammals.
  • Factors that speed up the metabolism.
  • Understanding hormonal malfunctioning.
  • The structure of digestive systems.
  • The importance of the sun as an energy source for cells.
  • Size and function of Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic cells.
  • Cell membranes and their importance.
  • How are DNA and RNA different?
  • Importance of cell biology in understanding genetics.
  • Understanding the molecular energy reserves.
  • The significance of apoptosis for growth.
  • How impactful are defective cells for the normal functioning of the body?
  • The relationship between cell function and cell structure.
  • How are cytokines and cell biology related? 

Excellent Biology Research Topics

Still on the hunt for top-notch topics for your biology research paper? Check out this list; it has some great research topics for you to consider.

  • Global warming and its biological impact.
  • Factors affecting population genetics.
  • Oxytocin and its role in the human reproductive system.
  • The functioning of the human immune system.
  • Effective ways to deal with stress biology.
  • Common causes of asthma.
  • The effect of transplantation on the human immune system.
  • Perception of vaccination in society.
  • The properties of well-functioning human cells.
  • Restricting enzymes and their importance in body functionality.
  • The role of neurobiology in improving human memory.
  • Different chemical reactions in the human body.
  • The evolution of biology.
  • The main reasons for plant diseases and how to cure them?
  • The phenomenon of homosexuality and bisexuality.
  • Biodiversity and climate change.
  • How physical exercises can impact metabolism.
  • Bacteria and its effect on depression.
  • The adverse effects of rainforest extinction.
  • Ways of mapping and cloning genes.
  • The adverse effects of the oligogenic disease.
  • Hereditary diseases and their danger.
  • The cognitive functions of primates.
  • Down syndrome and its leading causes.
  • Probiotics and their role in curing infections.
  • Main reasons for obesity in pets.
  • The pros and cons of testing beauty products on animals.
  • A case study on the biology of marine birds.

New and Trendy Biology Research Topics

It’s a good idea to keep up with the times when writing a biology research paper, so here’s a list of some of the hottest biology topics right now.

  • Understanding genetic drift.
  • The complex process of DNA Replication.
  • The importance of neurobiology.
  • Is genetic engineering a way to cure obesity?
  • Does age slow our reaction time?
  • Bipolar disorder – what do we need to know?
  • Hormones and their effect on our behavior.
  • Should human cloning be legalized?
  • The advantages of vaccination.
  • Is it correct that bees are becoming extinct?
  • The unique biology of marine birds.
  • Understanding the extracellular matrix.
  • Differences between warm-blooded and cold-blooded animals?
  • The existence and evolution of arthropods.
  • Annelids and their characteristics.
  • The evolution of reptiles.
  • Ways to prevent genetic diseases.
  • Genetic testing and its ethical implications.
  • Is DNA helpful in solving crimes?
  • The role of antibiotics in controlling diseases.
  • How effective is bone marrow transplant in treating sickle cell?
  • Probiotics and their harmful effects.
  • What factors cause stress in plants?
  • The psychological development of infants.
  • Parasites and their evolution.
  • Sunscreen and its adverse effects.
  • The harmful effects of toothpaste you should know.
  • The biological basis of psychological disorder.
  • The recent development of oxytocin science.
  • The importance of cardio exercises.
  • The significance of therapeutic cloning.
  • The benefits of organic farming.
  • Understanding DNA testing.
  • Analyzing the impact of steroids.
  • The role of neuroscience in robotic technology.
  • Ways to deal with the problem of extinction.
  • Genetic factors that influence the immunological system.
  • Understanding the neurobiological explanation of sleep.
  • The phenomenon of DNA-modified organisms.
  • The evolution of infectious diseases.
  • Pollution and its impact on people.

You now have a good idea of what biology research topics you want to explore, right? Check what your professor is expecting and then contact our experts if you have a problem dealing with this assignment yourself. 

That’s right, as our experienced and professional writers have been able to help students with well-researched, trustworthy, unique, and plagiarism-free research papers, essay writing, and more. So, jump straight to buy cheap essay at a cut price for academic growth.

What is the importance of research in biology?

What are the features of a good biology research paper topic, what are excellent biology research paper topics related to ecology.

A research project on ecology could help people build a better bond with the environment they live in. Here are some topics for your research paper related to ecology.

  • How do animals respond to environmental changes?
  • The effects of global warming.
  • Measures to protect wildlife.

What are some good research topics related to the history of biology?

If you want to get into the nitty-gritty of biology's background, here are some exciting topics to begin writing about.

  • The factors of evolution.
  • History of vaccination.
  • Analyzing the history of genetics.

What are the three most common molecular biology research topics?

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100 Fascinating Biology Research Paper Topics for Students

15 January, 2021

11 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Biology research is a serious analytical task that usually contains scientific findings, debatable questions, and detailed explanations. Students who are studying biology may get an assignment to find some interesting biological topics to do research for essays, term papers, and scientific reports.

Biology Research Paper Topics

It is quite a challenging and overwhelming task that takes pretty much time and effort. If your topic is not relevant, you won’t be able to include a scientific argument and proceed with further discussion. In this article, you will discover some topics for biology projects that will help you gain attention in a rapidly evolving field like this.

How to Choose Topic for Biology Research Paper?

Well, you’ve been researching for a while now, and you are ready to focus on a particular topic. Professors often ask students to write about something that has not been researched for a hundred times. Among all topics in biology, you should choose the one you are actually interested in. There are certain tips you need to follow before opting for your topic:

  • Narrow down the subject matter. Before choosing an interesting biology topic for your research paper, you first need to identify a particular aspect of biology that interests you.
  • Examine the existing research papers. You should conduct thorough research on the existing scholarly articles in order to gain a better idea about recent trends in the particular sphere of Biology.
  • Brainstorm a particular area . By brainstorming ideas and thoughts, you may find the ideal research topic for biology to focus on.
  • Conduct a preliminary research . By conducting preliminary research, you will check the amount of materials covering the selected topic. If you fail to find any information, you should choose another topic.
  • Have a look at relevant examples . Checking credible examples is important for biology topics selection. This way, you will learn how to structure your research paper and go about the selected topic.

History of Biology

Do you consider covering the history of Biology in your research? Then, you may refer to the history of all life forms on the planet and explore how they have been researched over time. Here are some topics to dwell on:

  • How archeology influences animal biology?
  • The latest explanation of Darwin’s theory in modern science
  • Edward Jenner and his contribution to the fight against epidemics
  • The dead branches of evolution
  • Exploring the importance of evolution factors
  • Study of modern theories related to the origins of humankind
  • The contribution of Antonie van Leeuwenhoek to the science of Biology
  • The most significant milestones in the development of behavioral mechanisms in the late XIX – early XX centuries
  • Can we trust the Natural Selection Theory? Does it work in the human world?
  • The development of genetics over the last century

Immune System Biology Research Topics

The immune system, as our main defense against different diseases and infections, is one of the most important topics for discussion in Biology. Take a look at the following topic examples:

  • The resistance capacity of the human immune system
  • Why is vaccination important and what are its benefits?
  • Problems caused by immunotherapy
  • Effects of probiotics on  the prevention of infections
  • How poor immunity leads to fatal diseases
  • The functions of immune system agents
  • The resistance of the human immune system
  • Medical conditions caused by immune system malfunction
  • How does insomnia influence the human immune system?
  • Molecular biology of Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Molecular Biology Topics

Are you looking for a molecular biology issue to cover in your research paper? The following topics represent the latest research on this subject matter.

  • The effective ways and tools for effective lifetime prolongation
  • The role of genetically modified crops for the national economy
  • Molecular biology research in the United States
  • Can Ebola be viewed as a biological weapon?
  • The effect on antibiotics on cells
  • Challenges caused by diseases to molecular biology
  • Does molecular biological research of rare genetic disorders provide us with the keys to understanding cancer and other diseases?
  • What are the biological reasons behind food intolerances?
  • Production of growth hormone and insulin in genetic engineering
  • Molecular chaperones and their role in polypeptides folding

Genetic Researches Biology Topics

Research on genetic concepts can reveal intriguing insights into human nature and potential. The variety of options here is unlimited. Some of them include the following:

  • How to solve the ethical dilemma of human cloning?
  • The recent implementation of genetic disorders treatment
  • Modern technology in  DNA analysis
  • The process of DNA modification on smoking females
  • Methods of the sequencing of nucleotide sequences of DNA
  • DNA Modifications and its Effects on Humans
  • Genetics of chromosomal diseases related to structural chromosome rearrangements
  • Genetics behind human physical features
  • DNA diagnosis of hereditary and infectious diseases
  • Can DNA influence the process of aging?

Neurobiology Research Topics

The human brain is intriguing, as there are always some new things to learn. The following topics have a great study potential:

  • The improvement of brain activities with the most advanced neurobiology aids
  • The innovative technologies in neurobiology
  • Does gut bacteria lead to depression?
  • Genetic defects that cause schizophrenia
  • The molecular and gene regulatory signature of a neuron
  • The influence of music on cognitive processes in a human brain
  • What are the negative consequences associated with neurosurgery?
  • Formation of thinking, speech, and consciousness of an average person
  • Neurobiological Explanation of Sleep
  • The role of neuroscience in the development of robotic technologies

Plant Research Topics

Are you interested in writing a paper about plants? Here are some of the latest ideas in botany to get inspiration by: 

  • How does climate change affect biodiversity in Australia?
  • The evolutionary factors that affect plant growth
  • A comparative analysis of invasive plants in New Zealand
  • Friction in the plant world
  • How modern technology can facilitate plant disease treatment
  • Disease resistance mechanism in plants
  • An extensive research on plant-associated microbes and available genomic tools
  • Feature and functions of photosynthesis
  • Impact of electric current on plant cells
  • Plant cells plastids structure and function

Ecological Subjects

Ecology-concerning subjects are becoming more and more popular as society has to deal with the results of human behavior all the time. In your biology research study, you can offer some new solutions to ecological problems in order to turn the world into a better place. Let’s review some popular topic examples:

  • Exploring the relevance of chemical ecology in the context of Oceania
  • The impact of Ecological factors on animal behavior
  • Ways animals and plants adapt to fast-changing environment
  • Explore the ecological footprint of cotton production
  • The ecological approach to sustainable marine research
  • Why does biodiversity need to be conserved?
  • Consequences of building the Hetch Hetchy valley dam
  • What causes toxic algae bloom?
  • Indoor air pollution: causes and risks
  • The devastating impact of deforestation in Amazon forests

If you are interested in the animal world , feel free to write about it in your research paper. By conducting a deep analysis of one phenomenon or species, you may shed light on the growing problems. Some of the burning topics to consider include the following:

  • How the mechanism of camouflage is used by sea animals?
  • How does veganism affect meat production?
  • How do humans influence the diversity of animal species?
  • The mechanism of resistance in animals
  • Domestication: can foxes become domestic animals?
  • Possibility of homosexual connections in the world of animals
  • The future of the planet through the prism of Species Extinction
  • Can beauty products testing on animals be viewed as ethical?
  • Evolutionary connections between moths and butterflies
  • The importance of home diet for dogs

Behavior and Hormones

You can also share ideas on how human hormones influence their mood and well-being. A short list of topic samples covers the following: 

  • How hormones affect women’s behavior during pregnancy
  • Psychopathic Disorders: Are They Hormone-Specific?
  • The hormones disorder and constant depression
  • How does your brain control your behavior?
  • The three main psychopathic disorders influenced by hormones
  • Analyze the features of oxytocin that turn this hormone into a love drug
  • How to generate growth hormone by means of genetic engineering methods?
  • Biologic basis of the bipolar disorder
  • The influence of diabetes and its potential threats
  • The role of hormones in women’s health

Easy Biology Research Topics

If you don’t know what to write about in your biology research paper, you can use one of the most common topics. Although they have been widely covered by scientists, it doesn’t mean they are not suitable for further research. These topic ideas might come in handy:

  • How to prevent the risks related to global warming?
  • The future prospects of molecular biology in Europe
  • Is growing organs for transplantation in laboratories ethical?
  • How is melatonin used for therapy purposes?
  • What is the value of sustainability in Biology?
  • Explore the effects of marijuana on the human brain. Should the use of marijuana become legal?
  • Accuracy of DNA testing in the modern medical environment
  • Different ecological pyramids and the ratio of organisms at each of their levels
  • The positive and negative aspects of transgenic crops
  • Various means of wildlife protection

biology research topics

Biology research is one of the most complicated academic assignments that needs to be written according to strict requirements. While checking the variety of biology research topics, you should be ready to deal with certain problems, such as a poor understanding of the subject matter, its value for society, etc. Try to select a brief and concise topic that can be supported with relevant and up-to-date evidence. Make sure to conduct thorough research by using all the available tools and methods you know. Remember that the importance and timely revelation of the topic increases your chances to get an excellent grade eventually.

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Ethical Research Paper Topics

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Art Research Paper Topics

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240 Interesting Biology Topics for Essays & Research Papers

Biology is often called the science of life . From bacteria to whales, biologists study all kinds of organisms. Have you ever wondered why bees dance? Or how can chickens be the closest modern relatives to dinosaurs? The buzzing world is full of complex wonders like these. That’s why it’s so easy to find a biology research topic of your liking.

If you need to craft a biology essay, this article is for you. Here you can learn about research areas and fields in biology. Besides, you will find 220 interesting biology topics to write about. Read on to refresh your knowledge of microbiology, epidemiology, and more.

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🔝 Top 10 Biology Research Topics

📚 areas of research in biology, ⭐ top 10 interesting biology topics for essays, 🍎 biological topics for high school.

  • 🦠 Microbiology Topics
  • 💀 Anatomy & Human Biology
  • 🔬 Cell & Molecular Biology
  • ♻️ Environmental Biology
  • 🐬 Marine Biology
  • 🌻 Plant Biology
  • 🧬 Evolutionary Biology
  • 👶🧑 Developmental Biology
  • 😷 Epidemiology & Population Topics in Biology
  • 📜 History of Biology

🔍 References

  • Are viruses alive?
  • How do emotions work?
  • What is the role of hormones?
  • Ways to recover endangered species
  • Are allergies a sign of immune disorder?
  • What is the function of chromosomes?
  • Robert Hooke’s contribution to biology
  • The difference between Darwinism and evolution
  • The process of bacterial invasion of the body
  • Ways to strengthen the human immune system

Biologists operate on a vast scale. Naturally, there are plenty of research areas. Let’s sort them out:

  • Microbiology. Microbiologists examine minute organisms. Many of them, such as viruses, can cause infectious diseases. Because of this, microbiology is strongly linked with immunology.
  • Anatomy. Anatomical research focuses on the structure of tissues and organs.
  • Cell and molecular biology. Cells are the basis for every living being. The key topic in this area is the molecular organization of cells.
  • Environmental biology. Our environment needs support, and environmental biologists provide it. They study ecosystems to find out how humans affect nature. Scientists in this area also observe how organisms react to their surroundings.
  • Marine biology. This branch is concerned with life in the deep seas. Oceanography is a crucial part of marine biology.

Paul Watson quote.

  • Botany. This study is also called plant biology. It studies the properties of organisms that need sun and water to survive. Common categories of plants include trees, shrubs, and flowers.
  • Evolutionary biology. All that lives is always evolving. Organisms create, merge, and delete genes. Evolutionary biologists monitor these changes.
  • Developmental biology. Research in this area includes studying tissue regeneration and cell growth.
  • Epidemiology. Epidemiologists investigate diseases and health conditions. Key questions include: Where does a disease originate from? How does it transmit? What risks are there?

With this overview in mind, you’re ready to choose an interesting biological topic.

  • 4 types of biotechnology
  • Main branches of biochemistry
  • Pros and cons of gene therapy
  • Exobiology vs. astrobiology
  • Biological functions of the DNA
  • Levels of biological organization
  • Properties of the phylogenetic tree
  • Classification of invertebrate animals
  • History of modern light microscopes
  • The early modern period of plant systematics

From peas to platypuses: high school biology covers a wide range of topics. In your biology essay, you’ll have the chance to familiarize yourself with any of them. Your options are almost endless! Consult our list of 20 popular ideas to get your research started:

  • Compare the types of cell reproduction.
  • How did Gregor Mendel discover heredity?
  • Cell structure: prokaryotes vs. eukaryotes.
  • Enzymes : what do we need them for?
  • Explain how photosynthesis converts CO2 into O2.
  • How does the human metabolism work?
  • What are the differences between mitosis and meiosis?
  • How do you predict the probability of inheriting a gene?
  • Describe the structure of DNA.
  • What is PCR used for?
  • Biotechnology: the mechanisms behind cloning.
  • Survival of the fittest: what does natural selection mean?
  • Discuss the latest evidence for Darwin’s theory of evolution.
  • The tree of life: how does this concept depict the relationships between species?
  • What kind of strategies do organisms use to get nutrition?
  • Dinosaurs and their modern relatives: what do we know about them?
  • How does our nervous system transport information? 
  • Explain the mechanisms behind the carbon cycle.
  • Examine the human impact on biodiversity .
  • What factors regulate population dynamics?

🦠 Microbiology Research Topics for Students

The world of microbiology consists of tiny organisms. Researchers study microbes and other simple life forms such as bacteria and fungi. This way, they aim to solve environmental as well as medical issues.

  • How do microbes develop resistance?
  • Give an overview of our immune system’s defense mechanisms.
  • Contrast the types of microbiomes.
  • What are the industrial applications for microbiology ?
  • How do you degrade soil pollutants using microbes?
  • Investigate examples of agents that kill bacteria.
  • What makes yeast versatile?
  • The differences between virions and viroids.
  • What are acellular agents?
  • Give an overview of the biochemical properties of fungi.
  • What are possible causes for asthma?
  • The relationship between stress and our immune system’s performance.
  • How do vaccines work?
  • Examine the structure of archaeal genes.
  • Why is microbial diversity important?

Natural selection.

  • How do microbes contribute to an ecosystem?
  • The role of microbes in food contamination.
  • How do bacteria turn milk into yogurt?
  • Applications of microbial biotechnology.
  • Describe the four groups of protozoa.

💀 Anatomy & Human Biology Topics

Human biology studies people as single organisms and in the context of populations. Two of its essential parts are anatomy and anthropology. The latter studies the evolution of humankind. The former is more concerned with body structure. Combine all three subjects to gain a 360° view of humanity!

  • Describe the functions of the respiratory system.
  • What happens to your body if you’re anemic?
  • Outline the history of the human population.
  • How does medical anthropology help us understand health? 
  • Reading bones: what types of information can osteologists gather?
  • Biomechanics: what makes humans move?
  • Compare the proposed effects of various current trends in nutrition .
  • Explore the psychological factors that influence one’s health.
  • How does your brain control your behavior?
  • Synapses: structure and mechanisms.
  • Explain how kidneys filter blood.
  • What regulates muscle contraction ?
  • Discuss the new reproductive technologies from an anthropological perspective.
  • Describe the structure of a skeletal muscle fiber.
  • The cerebral cortex: what does it do?
  • Brain, hormones, and emotions.
  • Functions of the sodium-potassium pump.
  • Examine what blood consists of.
  • What happens when your heart skips a beat?
  • Is the growth in the human population out of control?

🔬 Cell & Molecular Biology Research Topics

Your body’s fundamental structure is made up of cells. Their properties are in the center of interest for cell biologists. They investigate a cell’s life cycle and its vital functions. On a molecular level, this includes the role of chemical processes in cell activity.

  • How does cancer affect the body’s cell growth?
  • The protein paradox: what is the right amount of protein?
  • How do cells heal bones?
  • The ethics of stem cell research. 
  • Investigate the communication methods between cells.
  • Explore the link between the environment and our DNA.
  • Current trends in molecular biochemistry.
  • Telomerase: will it ever be possible to reverse aging processes?
  • What do we know about axon guidance?
  • Where does our brain keep the memories?
  • Why do cells become sticky?
  • High-resolution microscopy: ways to advance molecular research.
  • How do cilia move cells?

Living organisms.

  • Treating glaucoma: is surgery always necessary?
  • The role of microtubules in the nervous system.
  • Diffusion: means of transport within cells.
  • What does the central dogma of molecular biology state?
  • Trace the steps of DNA translation.
  • Why do cells need to eat their dead counterparts?
  • How does protein biosynthesis work?

♻️ Environmental Biology Topics to Research

Environmental biologists ensure our harmonic coexistence with nature. They are also in charge of monitoring wastewater disposal and pollution levels. This branch is closely related to ecology.

  • Discuss the importance of light in different bodies of water.
  • Aftermath of building the Hetch Hetchy valley dam.
  • The devastating impact of deforestation in the Amazon.
  • Analyze the consequences of desertification.
  • How do genetically modified insects influence the environment?
  • What would happen if all the bees die?
  • Compare several methods of wastewater disposal.
  • What were the ecological effects of Indonesia’s Mega Rice Project?
  • The Great Pacific Garbage Patch: will we ever get rid of it?
  • How do worms indicate the state of an ecosystem?
  • Why is it important to conserve biodiversity?
  • DDT: how did it affect wildlife in the US?
  • What causes toxic algae bloom?
  • Compare the adverse health effects of common contaminants in the air.
  • The Aral Sea: how did it disappear?
  • How do genetically engineered crops impact the environment?
  • Indoor air pollution: causes and risks. 
  • The pros and cons of using natural gas .
  • Trace the ecological footprint of cotton production.
  • What are the ways to ensure food security without harming the environment?

🐬 Marine Biology Topics for a Paper

Fun fact: the vast majority of our oceans are still unobserved. Research in marine biology encompasses all organisms living close to or under water. Do you want to participate in uncovering the mysteries of the deep sea? This section is for you!

  • How does luminescence in marine vertebrae work?
  • Dolphins: how do they communicate?
  • The impact of military sonar on whales.
  • What makes the Galapagos Islands so unique?
  • Compare different camouflage techniques of marine animals.
  • How do aquatic organisms live together in coral reefs?
  • Causes of high mercury concentrations in fish.
  • Investigate the impact of overfishing in China.
  • Explain how rising sea temperatures affect marine life.
  • Contrast the survival strategies of various penguin species.
  • The ethics of seafood farms.
  • Examine bacteria’s contribution to biological processes in the sea.
  • What are the types of invasive species?
  • The contribution of birds to a stable marine ecosystem.
  • Identify the biggest threats to marine biodiversity.
  • Inspect the predatory behavior of starfish.
  • How do corals form?
  • The importance of phyto- and zooplankton to ponds.
  • Whales: how did they evolve?
  • What are the four types of oceanography ?

🌻 Plant Biology Research Topics

Plant biology, you guessed it, investigates plants. These green organisms are incredibly versatile. From redwood trees to algae, plants come in all sizes and shapes. Scientists use botanical knowledge to improve our food and medicine supplies. They also help to conserve forests, parks, and wilderness areas.

  • What causes diseases in plants?
  • What are the benefits of studying algae ?
  • Recently, scientists engineered a plant to glow by itself. How does it work?
  • What makes some plants toxic?

Rainforest plants.

  • Compare various defense mechanisms of flowers.
  • Deciduous trees: what are the advantages of leaf loss?
  • How do Butterworts acquire nutrition?
  • Carnivorous plants: methods of luring prey.
  • Types of negative feedback in plants.
  • Give examples of thigmotropism. How does it work?
  • What problems are associated with the definition of kingdoms?
  • Investigate the anatomical structure of plant roots.
  • Phytohormones: how do they influence plant growth?
  • Plants and music: does sound have any measurable effects on plant development?
  • How do plants produce starch?
  • Why do weeds grow excessively?
  • Investigate plant disease management and intervention.
  • Industrial applications of synthesized plant mechanisms.
  • Cacti: how do they survive in the desert?
  • Examine the biological properties of medicinal herbs.

🧬 Hot Topics in Evolutionary Biology to Write About

Evolutionary biologists observe change in all living organisms. If you want to know why life on Earth is so versatile, evolutionary biology has the answer. Research areas cover ecology and genetics, as well as paleontology.

  • How does stabilizing selection ensure the same phenotype for a species during evolution?
  • Discuss Tinbergen’s four questions.
  • What are the benefits of sexual reproduction ?
  • Cancer: why does it persist?
  • Society and evolution: are they connected?
  • Southeast Asia and the limited occurrence of the alcohol dehydrogenase gene.
  • Is there a scientific reason to divide humans into races?
  • Track the evolution of aging throughout human history.
  • How does speciation work?
  • Genetic drift and its effects on variation.
  • Describe problems concerning the Modern Synthesis.
  • Selective sweeps: how likely are they to cause disease?
  • What does the Red Queen hypothesis state?
  • How do you determine age in herbaceous plants?
  • Life history theory: how does a species’ life history influence its evolution?
  • What are the ways for a species to achieve its maximum fitness?
  • How did the bees learn to communicate information by dancing?
  • Investigate the evolution of stamina in animal locomotion.
  • How does an animal’s physiology adapt to its geographic range?
  • Compare the evolutionary process of endotherms and ectotherms.

👶🧑 Developmental Biology Research Topics

When animals and plants grow, their features change. It’s no surprise: every living being starts as a single cell. It’s a long way from there to a fully formed organism! Developmental biologists track this process at different levels.

  • Why are men more likely to be colorblind than women?
  • What is phylogenetic niche conservatism?
  • Identify origins of congenital disorders.
  • What causes birds to become territorial?
  • Explain the two types of developmental mechanisms.
  • Why does getting older make humans more susceptible to cancer?
  • Homeotic genes: how do they influence the development of body structures?
  • Describe the advantages of apoptosis.
  • What causes polycephaly?
  • How do stem cells differentiate?
  • Investigate regeneration in hydra.
  • Mechanisms of metamorphosis in frogs.
  • What happened during the Cambrian explosion?
  • How do plants produce new structures?
  • Examine the process of neurulation in fish.
  • What are the types of deformations found in plants?
  • Describe the ABC model of flower development.
  • Why are zebrafish good model systems for developmental studies?
  • Search for the origins of the vertebrate body plan.
  • What does the concept of morphogen gradient say about the fate of cells?

😷 Epidemiology & Population Topics in Biology

Investigating health-related events is a part of epidemiologic research. The goal is to find out what causes diseases in a specific population. Epidemiology analyzes other health issues such as natural disasters and injuries. Population biology focuses on the interaction between populations and their environment.

  • How does evolutionary game theory describe the development of a population?
  • When is a strategy evolutionarily stable?
  • How does phenotypic variety in plants help manage disease?
  • What diseases are caused by heavy metal pollution?

Cell in the human body.

  • How did the Coronavirus pandemic contribute to a rise in cases of domestic violence ?
  • Reasons for an increased rate of congenital disabilities in a specific area.
  • Asian carp: a harmful disruption of the marine population in American rivers.
  • Compare the three kinds of population distribution.
  • Examine the consequences of the 1783 Laki eruption.
  • Examine various policies to moderate population growth. 
  • How do predator-prey dynamics work?
  • Avoidance mechanisms of resource competition.
  • Describe the three types of symbiotic relationships .
  • How does a species regulate its abundance?
  • What happens if the equilibrium state of a community is disturbed?
  • Factors that encourage human population growth.
  • Contrast the survivorship curves of humans, birds, and trees.
  • Obesity : causes and solutions.
  • Depression : how does it affect society?
  • The role of causal inference in epidemiological studies .

📜 History of Biology Topics to Write About

Even before the emergence of scientific studies, humans had basic biological understanding. They were able to spot edible plants and domesticate animals. Assyrians and Babylonians were the first to implement biological knowledge. If you’re looking for a theoretical research project, this is the right research area for you.

  • Explore the medical knowledge available in ancient China.
  • The history of agriculture in India.
  • How did the Greek philosophers theorize about the origin of life?
  • Investigate the theory of the four humors.
  • Aristotle’s classification of animals.
  • Give an overview of discoveries in Galen’s medical writings.
  • What caused the stagnation in scientific progress during the Middle Ages?
  • Al-Jahiz’ discovery of the relationships between organisms.
  • Albertus Magnus: what was his contribution to botany?
  • How did Italy become the center for biological studies?
  • What factors impacted the development of biology during the Renaissance?
  • Trace the origins of modern anatomy.
  • What led to the establishment of the cell theory?
  • Jump starting biological progress: the invention of the microscope.
  • Louis Pasteur and the dismissal of spontaneous generation.
  • How did the discovery of heredity influence modern biology?
  • What led to the discovery of blood circulation?
  • How did the Royal Society of London impact scientific development in Europe?
  • What technology helped advance biological research in the 20th century?
  • The rise of bioinformatics: boosting progress in genetic data analysis.

We hope our article gave you some useful ideas for your biology paper. Good luck with your assignment!

You might also be interested in:

  • A List of 212 Brilliant Research Proposal Topics to Investigate
  • 220 Best Science and Technology Essay Topics to Write About
  • 501 Research Questions & Titles about Science
  • 300 Interesting Chemistry Topics & Writing Tips
  • 150 Best Environmental Essay Topics & Questions
  • 165 Health-Related Topics & Essay Ideas
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  • What is Biology?: NTNU
  • High School Biology: Khan Academy
  • Microbiology: University of Pittsburgh
  • Human Biology: University at Albany
  • Explore Topics Related to Cells: NIH
  • What Is Marine Biology?: MarineBio Conservation Society
  • Developmental Biology: Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
  • Introduction to Epidemiology: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
  • The History of Biology: Encyclopedia Britannica
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Biology Research Projects for High School Students: 20 Ideas To Try This Summer

Photo of Janos Perczel

By János Perczel

Co-founder of Polygence, PhD from MIT

16 minute read

Biology and biomedical research are two of the most popular academic disciplines among high schoolers. If you’re someone who’s interested in those fields and you’re looking for research opportunities this summer, you’ve come to the right place! With the study of biology, not only can you gain a better understanding of the natural world, but your research can have practical applications in fields like medicine, agriculture, and environmental science. Whether you’re just starting out in your exploration of biology, have taken a biology class in school, or you’re looking to do some advanced research to submit to your state’s science fair , we have level-appropriate ideas for you!

With a variety of topics like cancer treatment, genetics, neurodegenerative diseases, and marine life, we’ve got you covered. Here is a curated list of 20 different research project ideas to get those creative juices flowing. If you’re hungry for more, head over to our comprehensive Project Ideas database here and browse over 2800 more ideas!  

Research YOUR fave areas of Biology and Medicine

Polygence pairs you with an expert mentor in to create a passion project around biology and medicine. Together, you work to create a high quality research project that is uniquely your own. We also offer options to explore multiple topics, or to showcase your final product!

Human Body Project Ideas

Rate of cognitive decline in different elevations.

Oxygen partial pressure decreases with altitude, challenging blood oxygenation which may affect brain function. If you’ve ever felt some altitude sickness, then this is exactly what’s happening. This is because the atmospheric pressure decreases at higher elevations, leading to a decrease in the partial pressures of the gasses in the air, including oxygen. And of course, oxygen is needed for us to function. What is the effect on brain health/ cognition in sudden increased elevation: say, climbing Mount Everest? Does chronic exposure to high elevations increase the likelihood of dementia? In this project, a meta-analysis of published works examining the effects of altitude on cognition would be conducted.

Idea by mentor Alyssa

Building a Blood Vessel

Use online graphics to illustrate how a blood vessel forms. Blood vessels are structures that carry blood and are responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. There are three main types of blood vessels: arteries, veins, and capillaries. For this project, complete a literature search to understand what is known about blood vessel growth. Then, utilize this information to generate a graphic with no words to demonstrate how the vasculature (network of blood vessels) forms. The goal of this project is to explain science without using text and therefore make it more available to a larger community.

Idea by mentor Natalie

Examining the bacterial profile of various households

As of late, bacterial microbiomes have been a huge and interesting topic in the field of bacteriology as they play an important role in human health. Bacterial microbiomes are communities of bacteria that live on or outside organisms. They’re found in various parts of the human body, and help us to digest food and regulate our immune system. In this project, you will seek to understand how skin microbiomes can differ between different  individuals of different households. This project will require making different bacterial media that can be made at home selecting for various microorganisms. If you’re new to preparing bacterial media, check out this resource here!

Idea by mentor Hamilton

Regulation of Circadian Clocks

Sleep is known to be governed by two distinct processes: a circadian clock that aligns sleep and wakefulness to the solar day and the sleep homeostat that encodes for sleep debt as a compensatory mechanism against sleep loss. You’ve most likely heard about circadian rhythm and our body’s internal clock, and circadian regulation of sleep is a fundamental process that allows animals to anticipate sleepiness or wakefulness consistently every day. These mechanisms can be regulated in multiple ways: at the gene, protein, gene, and clock neuronal level. In this project, we will focus on 1) how to efficiently digest primary and review articles to compile and condense information, 2) investigate how circadian clocks are regulated at these different genetic levels, and 3) try to effectively summarize the information we've gathered. We can present this information in a variety of ways, and what the final product looks like is up to you.

Idea by mentor Oscar

The Biology of Aging

Aging is the number one risk factor for a variety of diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and loss of hearing/sight. We are only now beginning to truly understand the process of aging and have even started to uncover ways that we could stop, or potentially reverse, the effects of aging. What are the hallmarks/signs of aging? How do researchers study 'aging'? How does human lifespan and aging compare to the rest of the animal kingdom? Is it possible to stop or reverse the effects of aging? What advancements are being made related to this? We could explore these questions or brainstorm others you might have about the biology of aging.

Idea by mentor Emily

Animals, Plants, and Nature Project Ideas

How genetically engineered mosquitoes are reducing rates of vector-borne diseases such as zika.

Many countries are already releasing millions of genetically engineered mosquitoes into the wild every week. These mosquitoes have been modified to reduce their ability to transmit disease-causing pathogens like dengue fever, Zika, and malaria, and are sent into the wild to mate with disease-carrying mosquitoes. However, this is still controversial as some people are concerned about the unintended consequences on the environment. What could be the potential pros and cons for this? The project will mainly focus on doing meta analysis of articles and watching informative videos to understand how/why genetically engineered mosquitoes can be used to reduce rates of different diseases. Students will have the chance to use critical thinking and do in-depth research on genetic engineering techniques, how scientists determine breeding rates and number of insects released, and epidemiology of different bloodborne diseases.

Idea by mentor Vanessa

Efficacy of Marine Protected Areas

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are areas of ocean or coastal waters that are set aside for the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. These areas are established by governments, NGOs, or other organizations, and they can take different forms, from fully protected "no-take" zones to areas with regulated fishing or other activities. Marine protected areas have the potential to guide sustainable resource management and protect biodiversity, but have a host of reasons for why they are not currently effective. Explore reasons for why MPAs may not be effective. Then develop a framework for mapping, modeling, and implementing an effective Marine Protected Area.

Bioinspiration: Do animals hold the answers?

Can the toxins produced by frogs help us fight antibiotic resistant bacteria strains? How can understanding how lizards and newts regrow their limbs help us improve wound treatment? Why do tilapia skins help with burns? Discover the role of animals in the development of modern medicine as well as its potential. Are there any ethical concerns with these developments and findings? If so, what are they and do they matter? Share your findings in a research proposal, article, or presentation.

Idea by mentor Cheyenne

How Climate Change Can Affect Future Distributions of Rare Species

Climate change, such as global warming and longer drought, can threaten the existence of some of the rarest plants on earth. It is important to understand how future suitable habitats will change for these rare species so that we can target our conservation efforts in specific areas. In this project, you will identify a rare species that you like (it can be animals, plants, or fungi!), and gather the data online on its current occurrences. Then you will learn how to perform species distribution modeling to map its current and future suitable habitat areas. To get you started on learning species distribution modeling, check out this Youtube resource here. The changes in the amount or location of future suitable habitats can significantly affect the destiny of a rare species. By doing this project, you will not only learn skills in data analyses but also become the best ambassador for this rare species that you love. 

Idea by mentor Yingtong

A Reef’s Best Frenemies

Coral reefs are in global decline. A primary cause of this is "coral bleaching" which results in the white reefs we often see in the news. Coral bleaching is actually the breakdown in the partnership between the coral animal and tiny, symbiotic algae that live within its cells. Corals and algae have a variety of thermal tolerances which are likely decided by genetic and environmental factors. However, despite how important this relationship is, it's currently very poorly understood. This project would review existing literature on the symbiotic partnernship and try to identify factors that predict bleaching and thermal resilience.

Idea by mentor Carly

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Register to get paired with one of our expert mentors and to get started on exploring your passions today! You have agency in setting up your schedule for this research. Dive in now!

Diseases and Treatments Project Ideas

The understanding of a new and upcoming treatment: immunotherapy.

Immunotherapies have been growing in the past few years as alternative treatments for many types of cancer. These treatments work by boosting the patient's immune system to fight the disease, however it is not always effective. There are many types of immunotherapies with various nuances, but they all work to attack specific cells that are causing the disease. For this project, pick one of a few types of immunotherapy and deeply understand the mechanism of action and what is the current effectiveness against the cancer it treats.

Idea by mentor Hannah

Exploring The Cancer Genome Atlas data 

There has been an explosion of publicly available data for cancer. The Cancer Genome Atlas was a research program with the purpose of creating a comprehensive catalog of genomic and molecular information about different types of cancer, with the aim of improving our understanding of the disease and developing new treatments. The dataset has been used to identify new cancer subtypes, develop diagnostic tests, and discover potential targets for new cancer therapies. Explore the implications and impact of The Cancer Genome Atlas data, and why it’s become so important.

Idea by mentor Hersh

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Physiological Benefits of Fasting-induced Autophagy

Autophagy, meaning "self-eating", is a cellular process where damaged or unwanted components are disposed. Autophagy has been linked to various diseased pathologies, including cancer and heart disease. Fasting or specific dietary lifestyles may induce levels of autophagy in the human body. In this project, we will perform and systematic review and meta-analysis of fasting or diet-induced autophagy and its benefits on the body. You will gain skills in 1) searching and reviewing primary literature, 2) computational skills for performing data analysis (R language), and 3) writing your scientific findings.

Idea by mentor Jose 

The Amyloid Hypothesis: Sifting through the controversy

For many years, scientists have thought that amyloid beta was the protein responsible for a patient developing Alzheimer's Disease symptoms. This "Amyloid Hypothesis" is now being questioned in light of current clinical data. Recently, drugs have been developed that reduce amyloid beta in patients. Surprisingly, the drugs worked in reducing amyloid beta, but it did not result in the slowing of disease pathology. Does this mean that the amyloid hypothesis is incorrect? Is amyloid beta less important in the progression of disease then what we once thought? This research project aims to explore the issues with the amyloid hypothesis and to assess where we stand in our understanding of amyloid beta's contribution to Alzheimer’s.

Idea by mentor Patrick

How do vaccines work?

During the COVID pandemic, vaccines have been all over the news! But how do they actually work? What’s the science behind them? Through this project, you will explore how vaccines work and the history of science behind vaccine development. While the final product of the projectwill be up to you, the ultimate goal of this project is for you to be a true public health advocate for vaccines and to be able to communicate why vaccines are so important in a way that the general public can understand.

Idea by mentor Helen

Sleep Disruption Profiles in Various Mouse Models of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been studied for decades but we are no closer to understanding the mechanisms of the disease. Because of the vast number of researchers studying AD, there are numerous models used to study the disease. All these models have different sleep profiles, phenotypes, disease onsets, sex differences etc. Therefore, in this project we will compile a document based on extensive literature review about the various models there are. We will focus on sleep profiles in these animals with an emphasis on male and female differences. This information is valuable because it is important to know which model is best to use to answer your scientific questions and there is a lot of criticism (by other scientists) that can be brought on by the model chosen so you need to be able to justify your choice. This project will also introduce you to the world of AD research and some of the gaps in knowledge in the field.

Idea by mentor Shenee

Rethinking The Treatment Of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases affect millions of people worldwide. They are conditions that affect the nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord, and examples include Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. While billions of dollars have been spent trying to find treatments for the disease, very few drugs and therapies have had a meaningful impact on slowing down disease progression. This is often because by the time someone is diagnosed with a disease, it has progressed too far for a treatment to have a substantial effect. Some recent approaches to treatment have turned to looking for early indications of the disease (termed "biomarkers") that can occur before the onset of symptoms. By diagnosing disease and beginning treatment before symptoms arise, these treatments could have a more profound effect in slowing down the progression of disease. Students could review the recent progress being made on identifying biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, and either write a paper or even record a podcast on their findings!

Idea by mentor David

Genetics Project Ideas

Height and genetics: nature or nurture.

How much do your genes determine your height? How much do nutrition and environmental factors play a role? What gene variants are implicated in height differences and what is the role of epigenetics? Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression or cellular phenotype that occur without changes to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can be influenced by diet and lifestyle. We will access and analyze an open dataset on twins to estimate the correlation between monozygotic twins (who have the exact same DNA) and height. You will learn to use R to open a dataset, analyze data with statistical methods such the student’s t-test, and display your data as graphs and charts. Finally, you will learn how to make a research presentation on height and genetics, describe the research methods, and present the data in a compelling and thorough way.

Idea by mentor Adeoluwa

The World of Personalized Medicine

Similar to our fingerprints, our genetic code is also unique to each individual person. Our genetic code is what determines our hair color, height, eye color, skin tone...just about everything! For those that develop diseases such as cancer, their genetic code found inside the malignant cells that comprise a tumor may also be unique to them or to certain groups of people with similar mutations (the drivers of disease). So why is it that we treat each person the same way even though the genetic drivers of that disease may be disparate? The world of Personalized Medicine is new and exciting and looks to circumvent this problem. Personalized Medicine (also known as precision medicine) uses the genetic code of a patients disease to guide treatment options that prove to be highly efficacious. Together, lets write a review on a disease of your choice that could benefit from Personalized Medicine based on current literature and research.

Idea by mentor Somer

General Biology Project Ideas

Teach a biology concept two ways: to your fellow students and to the general public.

One of the best ways to learn is to teach. Choose a biological concept that interests you and prepare a lesson and or demo on it. The format should be a video recording of yourself teaching (a la Khan Academy or a Zoom class), but the other details are up to you. Consider incorporating a demonstration (e.g. how can you use items from your kitchen to illustrate properties of mixtures?) or animation (e.g. to illustrate molecular motion). Also consider how you will check that your students understand the concept(s) and/or skill(s) you have taught them. Prepare and record two versions of your lesson: one intended for your peers and one for the general public. How will the versions differ to reflect these different audiences? You will learn what it's like to teach, gain a much greater understanding of your chosen concept(s)/skill(s), and learn how to communicate science to different audiences.

Idea by mentor Alexa

Once you’ve picked a project idea, check out some of our resources to help you progress with your project! Whether you’re stuck on how to cite sources , how to come up with a great thesis statement , or how to showcase your work once it’s finished , we’ve created blog posts to help you out. If you’re interested in doing one of the biology research projects with the help of an amazing mentor at Polygence, apply now ! If you would like some help with coming up with your own idea, book a complimentary consultation call with our admissions team here ! For more biology and science research information, check out our comprehensive list of research opportunities for high school students .

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50 IB Biology IA Ideas

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30 IB Biology IA Topic Ideas!

biology research topic ideas

Are you struggling with choosing your topic for your IB Biology IA? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Finding a topic is one of the – if not THE – most important part of writing your IA, so we want to make sure that you get it right! Luckily, there are so many great topics to choose from, and we’ve asked some of our top team to note down some topics that might inspire your own incredible research!

NOTE: These topics are purely meant as inspiration and are not to be chosen blindly. Even though many of these topics led to high scores for some of our graduates in the past, it is important that you listen to the advice of your subject teacher before choosing any topic!

Get Support from a Top Tutor Today

At Lanterna we have hundreds of tutors who smashed Biology. They know exactly how to get a 7 in your IA and exam and can give you tips and tricks on how you can do the same. What are you waiting for? Get your own tutor today!

Biology ia ideas with independent variables

1, Look at the genetic similarities and differences between species, kingdoms, phylas, classes, genuses, orders, families, and domains.

2, Testing global warming: How does CO2, water vapour, oxygen, or any other variable affect  temperature inside a cutoff bottle exposed to simulated sunlight?

3, Describe how the primary productivity of algae changes with temperature, algae concentration, other aquatic plants, salinity, nutrients, and any other variables you may want to consider.

4, How does varying the gel concentrations of agarose affect DNA migration through a gel?

5, Effect of BMI on skin surface temperature in various body areas on rate of recovery once exposed to cold.

6, How does sudden change in body position affect heart rate and baroreceptor feedback?

7, How do the respiration rates of baker’s yeast and wine yeast in various sugar solutions compare?

8, How do the buffering actions of milk, yogurt, juices, detergents etc. compare?

9, Do our reaction times slow down with age?

10, Can we slow down the decaying times of vegetables? Can temperature, humidity, or exposure to sunlight affect how quickly vegetables decay?

Need inspo for Physics too? Check out some Physics IA ideas here !

11, What is the effect of the salt concentration on germination of different types of seeds?

12, What happens after the best-by date of dairy products?

13, Comparative study between 5 different species of animals using BLAST analysis to determine evolutionary history

14, What is the respective change of allele frequency when initial frequencies are manipulated?

15, Analysing the impact of river pollution on marine life.

16, Determine the effect of glucose concentration on the rate of osmosis.

17, What is the effect of pests on the diversity of plants in a lawn?

18, What is the effect of isotonic drinks on rehydration and recovery after exercise?

19, What is the difference in the CO2 levels exhaled before and after enduring physical exercise?

20, Testing the effectiveness of different types of toothpaste in inhibiting the growth of different types of bacteria.

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21, The effect of temperature / light on fruit ripening

22, Exploring stomatal density in a variety of conditions

23, Testing the effectiveness of toothpaste types

24, Investigating the effect of smoke water on the germination and growth of E.pilularis

25, Exploring the effect of sunlight on biomass

26, Exploring effect of light levels on the predation of the peppered moth

27, Investigating the effect of different light intensities on water weeds

28, How do different antibiotics interact with the process of seed germination?

29, Determining the effect of time on the plasmolysis of potatoes

30, Exploring mollusc shapes with regards to an external variable e.g. location on shore

So there we have it! 30 Biology IA topic ideas to get your lab report started! Still feeling a bit uneasy about the task ahead? Fear not, we have elite Biology tutors who can assist you through the process!

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Exploring the role of risk gene CNTN4 and APP in neuronal development

Dr asami oguro-ando tells us about the research published in her new open biology paper, a study which explores the pivotal role of the gene cntn4 and app in neuronal development..

Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells

Please could you tell us a little bit about your article?

We are excited to announce our recent publication, " CNTN4 Modulates Neural Elongation through Interplay with APP ," featured in Open Biology . This study delves into the intricate relationship between risk gene the neuronal cell molecule contactin-4 (CNTN4) and amyloid precursor protein (APP), elucidating their roles in neurodevelopmental disorders and Alzheimer's disease. We've detailed how CNTN4, a neuronal cell adhesion molecule, is instrumental in shaping neuronal morphology and spine density. Additionally, our findings reveal a co-dependent interaction between CNTN4 and APP crucial for neurite outgrowth, alongside a novel compensatory expression mechanism between these proteins.

What is the significance of CNTN4 and why did you choose to focus on this?

CNTN4 caught our attention during our research into 3p26 deletion syndrome—a condition linked with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), as cited in Gandawijaya et al., 2021 . While CNTN4 is identified as a candidate gene for ASD, its functional roles were not well understood. This gap in knowledge spurred us to explore how CNTN4 functions within the brain, particularly its interactions with proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Co-author Madeline Eve and Asami Oguro-Ando, University of Exeter

Co-authors Madeline Eve and Asami Oguro-Ando, University of Exeter.

Were there any surprising findings from the study?

Our research uncovered that CNTN4 not only contributes to neural elongation in the Frontal Cortex but also regulates its expression alongside APP, a protein implicated in Alzheimer's disease. It was quite remarkable to discover that CNTN4, a gene linked to developmental processes, also plays a role in modulating factors involved in Alzheimer's disease. This intersection of developmental and neurodegenerative pathways offers exciting new insights into the broader implications of these proteins.

What’s next for you or your group’s research?

Looking ahead, our group is keen to further dissect the molecular mechanisms underpinning the interaction between CNTN4 and APP and explore their wider implications for disorders like Alzheimer's and ASD. Our next steps involve clarifying how the CNTN4-APP interaction impacts neural activity. Understanding this interaction is crucial as it represents a fundamental step towards a comprehensive grasp of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.

Group members at the University of Exeter including co-authors Josan Gandawijaya, Rosie Bamford and Madeline Eve.

Group members at the University of Exeter including co-authors Josan Gandawijaya, Rosie Bamford and Madeline Eve. 

How did you find the Review Commons process and publishing with Open Biology ?

Our experience with Review Commons was exceptionally constructive. The streamlined peer review process facilitated a more efficient publication route, allowing us to refine our research with valuable feedback effectively. The impartial comments from reviewers who were not targeting a specific journal and the positive feedback aimed at enhancing our paper's quality were particularly striking. This process not only expedited our ability to share significant findings but also elevated the quality of our publication through rigorous peer evaluations. We are thoroughly satisfied with the outcome in Open Biology and are deeply appreciative of the genuine engagement from the journal in handling our revisions.

Dr. Oguro-Ando is a researcher and lecturer at the University of Exeter Medical School and has been interested in life science since she was a child, especially, how lives play rolls in plasticity to the environment. Asami’s group research aim is to further our understanding of the molecules, cells and circuits that underlie neurodevelopmental disorders affecting mental health including Autism is critical for developing more effective therapies for these disorders.

Open Biology accepts papers via Review Commons saving authors time by facilitates quicker, informed decisions without restarting the peer review process. We are looking to publish more high-quality research articles in cellular and molecular biology. Find out more about our author benefits and submission process .

Image credits: Hero image: Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Credit: Asami Oguro-Ando.  Photo credits: Asami Oguro-Ando. 

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Molecular Biology is the field of biology that studies the composition, structure and interactions of cellular molecules – such as nucleic acids and proteins – that carry out the biological processes essential for the cell’s functions and maintenance.

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Advancing programmable gene expression in plants using CRISPRi-based Boolean gates

To advance the toolset for controlling plant gene expression, we developed a CRISPR interference-based platform for the construction of synthetic Boolean logic gates that is functional in multiple plant species. These genetic circuits are programmable and reversible in nature, which will enable spatiotemporal control of plant responses to dynamic cues.

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Natural ribozymes can cleave RNA and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) by transesterification or a blend of hydrolytic and transesterification reactions. Now, ribozymes have been discovered that catalyze the hydrolytic cleavage of ssDNA. Similar ribozymes could potentially replace large, immunogenic, protein-based nucleases in gene therapies.

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ScienceDaily

A new 'rule of biology' may have come to light, expanding insight into evolution and aging

A molecular biologist at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences may have found a new "rule of biology."

A rule of biology, sometimes called a biological law, describes a recognized pattern or truism among living organisms. Allen's rule, for example, states that among warm-blooded animals, those found in colder areas have shorter, thicker limbs (to conserve body heat) than those in hotter regions, which need more body surface area to dissipate heat.

Zoologist Joel Allen formulated this idea in 1877, and though he wasn't the first or the last to present a rule of biology, his is one of just a handful to gain acceptance among scientists.

Now, John Tower, professor of biological sciences at USC Dornsife, believes he has uncovered another rule of biology. He published his idea on May 16 in the journal Frontiers in Aging .

Life may require instability

Tower's rule challenges long-held notions that most living organisms prefer stability over instability because stability requires less energy and fewer resources. For instance, hexagons appear frequently in nature -- think honeycombs and insect eyes -- because they are stable and require the least amount of material to cover a surface.

Tower centers his rule on instability, specifically a concept called "selectively advantageous instability," or SAI, in which some volatility in biological components, such as proteins and genetic material, provides an advantage to cells.

Tower believes SAI is a fundamental part of biology. "Even the simplest cells contain proteases and nucleases and regularly degrade and replace their proteins and RNAs, indicating that SAI is essential for life," he explains.

He says SAI also plays a key role in evolution.

As cells go about their business, building and degrading various unstable components, he explains, they will exist in one of two states -- one state with an unstable component present and one state in which the unstable component is absent.

Natural selection may act differently on the two cell states. "This can favor the maintenance of both a normal gene and a gene mutation in the same cell population, if the normal gene is favorable in one cell state and the gene mutation is favorable in the other cell state," he says. Allowing this genetic diversity can make cells and organisms more adaptable.

SAI may be at the root of aging -- and more

Selectively advantageous instability may also contribute to aging. Creating and then replacing the unstable component within cells comes at the cost of materials and energy. Breaking it down may also require additional energy.

Also, since SAI sets up two potential states for a cell, allowing normal and mutated genes to co-exist, if the mutated gene is harmful, this may contribute to aging, Tower says.

In addition to evolution and aging, SAI has other far-reaching implications.

"Science has been fascinated lately with concepts such as chaos theory, criticality, Turing patterns and 'cellular consciousness,' says Tower. "Research in the field suggests that SAI plays an important role in producing each of these phenomena."

Because of its apparent ubiquity in biology and its far-reaching implications, SAI may be the newest rule of biology, he says.

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The beauty of biology

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When Hanjun Lee arrived at MIT, he was set on becoming a Course 5 chemistry student. Based on his experience in high school, biology was all about rote memorization.

That changed when he took course  7.03 (Genetics) , taught by then-professor  Aviv Regev , now head and executive vice president of research and early development at Genentech, and  Peter Reddien , professor of biology and core member and associate director of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research.

He notes that friends from other schools don’t cite a single course that changed their major, but he’s not alone in choosing Course 7 because of 7.03.

“Genetics has this interesting force, especially in MIT biology. The department’s historical — and active — role in genetics research ties directly into the way the course is taught,” Lee says. “Biology is about logic, scientific reasoning, and posing the right questions.”

A few years later, as a teaching assistant for class  7.002 (Fundamentals of Experimental Molecular Biology ), he came to value how much care MIT biology professors take in presenting the material for all offered courses.

“I really appreciate how much effort MIT professors put into their teaching,” Lee says. “As a TA, you realize the beauty of how the professors organize these things — because they’re teaching you in a specific way, and you can grasp the beauty of it — there’s a beauty in studying and finding the patterns in nature.”

An undertaking to apply

To attend MIT at all hadn’t exactly been a lifelong dream. In fact, it didn’t occur to Lee that he could or should apply until he represented South Korea at the 49th International Chemistry Olympiad, where he won a Gold Medal in 2017. There, he had the chance to speak with MIT alumni, as well as current and aspiring students. More than half of those aspiring students eventually enrolled, Lee among them.

“Before that, MIT was this nearly mythical institution, so that experience really changed my life,” Lee recalls. “I heard so many different stories from people with so many different backgrounds — all converging towards the same enthusiasm towards science.” 

At the time, Lee was already attending medical school — a six-year undergraduate program in Korea — that would lead to a stable career in medicine. Attending MIT would involve both changing his career plans and uprooting his life, leaving all his friends and family behind.

His parents weren’t especially enthusiastic about his desire to study at MIT, so it was up to Lee to meet the application requirements. He woke up at 3 a.m. to find his own way to the only SAT testing site in South Korea — an undertaking he now recalls with a laugh. In just three months, he had gathered everything he needed; MIT was the only institution in the United States Lee applied to.

He arrived in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 2018 but attended MIT only for a semester before returning to Korea for his two years of mandatory military service.

“During military service, my goal was to read as many papers as possible, because I wondered what topic of science I’m drawn to — and many of the papers I was reading were authored by people I recognized, people who taught biology at MIT,” Lee says. “I became really interested in cancer biology.”

Return to MIT

When he returned to campus, Lee pledged to do everything he could to meet with faculty and discuss their work. To that end, he joined the MIT Undergraduate Research Journal , allowing him to interview professors. He notes that most MIT faculty are enthusiastic about being contacted by undergraduate students.

Stateside, Lee also reached out to Michael Lawrence , an assistant professor of pathology at Harvard Medical School and assistant geneticist at Mass General Cancer Center, about a preprint concerning APOBEC, an enzyme Lee had studied at Seoul National University. Lawrence’s lab was looking into APOBEC and cancer evolution — and the idea that the enzyme might drive drug resistance to cancer treatment.

“Since he joined my lab, I’ve been absolutely amazed by his scientific talents,” Lawrence says. “Hanjun’s scientific maturity and achievements are extremely rare, especially in an undergraduate student.”

Lee has made new discoveries from genomic data and was involved in publishing  a paper in Molecular Cell and  a paper in Nature Genetics . In the latter, the lab identified the source of background noise in chromosome conformation capture experiments, a technique for analyzing chromatin in cells.

Lawrence thinks Lee “is destined for great leadership in science.” In the meantime, Lee has gained valuable insights into how much work these types of achievements require.

“Doing research has been rewarding, but it also taught me to appreciate that science is almost 100 percent about failures,” Lee says. “It is those failures that end up leading you to the path of success.”

Widening the scope

Lee’s personal motto is that to excel in a specific field, one must have a broad sense of what the entire field looks like, and suggests other budding scientists enroll in courses distant from their research area. He also says it was key to see his peers as collaborators rather than competitors, and that each student will excel in their own unique way.

“Your MIT experience is defined by interactions with others,” Lee says. “They will help identify and shape your path.”

For his accomplishments, Lee was recently named an  American Association for Cancer Research Undergraduate Scholar . Last year, he also spoke at the Gordon Research Conference on Cell Growth and Proliferation about his work on the retinoblastoma gene product RB. Lee was also among the 2024 Biology Undergraduate Award Winners, recognized with the Salvador E. Luria Prize for outstanding scholarship and research of publication quality.

Encouraged by positive course evaluations during his time as a TA, Lee hopes to inspire other students in the future through teaching. Lee has recently decided to pursue a PhD in cancer biology at Harvard Medical School, although his interests remain broad.

“I want to explore other fields of biology as well,” he says. “I have so many questions that I want to answer.”

Although initially resistant, Lee’s mother and father are now “immensely proud to be MIT parents” and will be coming to Cambridge in May to celebrate Lee’s graduation.

“Throughout my years here, they’ve been able to see how I’ve changed,” he says. “I don’t think I’m a great scientist, yet, but I now have some sense of how to become one.” 

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Amendment 15: New Opportunity: E.11 Consortium in Biological Sciences

E.11 Consortium in Biological Sciences solicits proposals from a consortium in biological sciences to enable and/or carry out research investigations addressing NASA’s established space-relevant science interests in human health, animal, and plant sciences.

Proposals in response to this program element may be for ground-based research investigations, for collaborations that will promote research efforts to obtain funding from NASA or other organizations including other Federal agencies, and/or for other activities that advance NASA’s established science interests in space-relevant human health, animal, and plant sciences. A single award will be made of up to $2.5M total cost and with a period of performance of up to 5 years. This program element requires an Inclusion Plan and proposals will be evaluated using dual anonymous peer review .

The consortium shall consist of at least one Space Grant Consortia member. NASA shall establish the consortium in a State or region that does not currently host a NASA facility.

ROSES-2024 Amendment 15 presents a new program element in ROSES-2024: E.11 Consortium in Biological Sciences . A pre-proposer’s town hall for potential proposers to this program element will be held virtually on May 29 th , 2024, at 3:00PM (ET). Details of this virtual meeting will be posted on the NSPIRES page for this program element under “Other Documents” no later than May 22, 2024. Notices of Intent are required and must be submitted by June 17, 2024; the due date for proposals is July 17, 2024.

On or about May 17, 2024, this Amendment to the NASA Research Announcement "Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences (ROSES) 2024" (NNH24ZDA001N) will be posted on the NASA research opportunity homepage at https://solicitation.nasaprs.com/ROSES2024 .

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