Microbiology at Harvard?

I'm really passionate about microbiology and I've been looking into majoring in it. Is Harvard good for this major? What kinds of research opportunities are there for undergrads?

Harvard is an excellent choice for studying microbiology. Although the university doesn't explicitly offer an undergraduate major solely titled "Microbiology," you can pursue a related major such as Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) with a focus on microbiology. MCB is one of the most popular concentrations at Harvard and provides a solid foundation for deepening your understanding of microbiology.

As a Harvard student, you'll have ample research opportunities. One of the key advantages of attending Harvard is access to world-class research facilities and the opportunity to work alongside distinguished faculty and researchers. There are several research centers and labs that focus on microbiology and related fields, such as the Harvard Microbial Sciences Initiative, the Bauer Core Facility, and the Cabot Science Library.

Undergraduates can seek research opportunities through programs like the Harvard College Research Program (HCRP) and the Molecules, Cells, and Organisms (MCO) Undergraduate Research Scholars Program. You can also approach individual professors or labs to inquire about projects or positions. Summer research positions and internships are also available outside of the academic year, which will give you valuable hands-on experience in microbiology research.

In addition to research opportunities, Harvard is known for its collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, allowing you to pursue interdisciplinary research, combine your interest in microbiology with other subjects, or even seek opportunities within the broader life sciences community.

Overall, studying microbiology at Harvard is an excellent choice due to the vast academic resources and research opportunities available, as well as the university's strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, which could help you build a strong foundation in your chosen field.