March 29, 2024
Updated May 12, 2025
17 minute read
Biology, at its core, is the scientific study of life. It encompasses everything from the smallest microorganisms to the largest ecosystems, exploring the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of living organisms. A biologist is a scientist who conducts research in biology. This field offers a chance to unravel the mysteries of the natural world, contribute to groundbreaking discoveries, and address some of the most pressing global challenges.
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Find a path to becoming a Biologist. Learn more at:
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Reading list
We've selected some books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Biologist.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular origins and therapeutic approaches to metastatic cancer. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is considered a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the theory of evolution, covering topics such as natural selection, population genetics, and the fossil record. It is written by two leading evolutionary biologists and is suitable for both students and general readers.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular biology of cells, covering topics such as cell structure, function, and regulation.
Passionate defense of the theory of evolution, written by one of the world's leading evolutionary biologists. Dawkins provides a wealth of evidence for evolution, from the fossil record to the molecular level.
Known as the “bible of dissectors”, Grant's Dissector provides step-by-step dissection instructions and guidance on how to recognize and interpret anatomical structures. It's across between an anatomy reference book and dissection guide. It contains current anatomical terms and includes access to an online learning center with videos, dissection simulations, and quizzes.
Principles and Methods of Toxicology textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of toxicology. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the science of toxicology.
Zoo Animal and Wildlife Immobilization and Anesthesia textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the immobilization and anesthesia of zoo animals and wildlife. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this important topic.
Tells the story of the evolution of the human body, from its origins in the sea to its present form. Shubin paleontologist and evolutionary biologist, and he provides a fascinating and accessible account of the latest scientific discoveries.
Provides a condensed version of 'Molecular Biology of the Cell', covering the core concepts of cell structure and function in a more accessible format.
Examines the current extinction crisis, which is the sixth mass extinction in Earth's history. Kolbert argues that human activity is the main cause of this extinction crisis, and she provides a powerful and moving account of the impact that humans are having on the planet.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the structure and function of biological membranes, including their role in cellular compartmentalization, signaling, and transport.
Provides a clear and concise explanation of the theory of evolution. Coyne is an evolutionary biologist, and he provides a wealth of evidence to support the theory of evolution.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of biology, covering topics from the molecular and cellular level to the level of ecosystems and evolution. It is appropriate for students with a basic understanding of biology.
Examines the cellular and molecular basis of cancer, providing insights into the mechanisms underlying tumor growth and metastasis.
Explores the new field of evo devo, which is the study of how genes control the development of organisms. Carroll leading evo devo researcher, and he provides a fascinating account of the latest discoveries in this field.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of genetics, covering topics from the molecular level to the level of populations and evolution. It is appropriate for students with a basic understanding of biology.
Comprehensive overview of the fossil record. Benton paleontologist, and he provides a detailed account of the major groups of fossils and how they have evolved over time.
Tells the story of human evolution, from our origins in Africa to the present day. Roberts biological anthropologist, and she provides a fascinating account of the latest discoveries about human evolution.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of ecology, covering topics from the molecular level to the level of ecosystems and populations. It is appropriate for students with a basic understanding of biology.
This is an Indonesian-language textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of biology, covering topics from the molecular level to the level of ecosystems and evolution. It is appropriate for students with a basic understanding of biology.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/career/wzqko6/biologis