From Patagonia to the Galápagos: Why Fieldwork Matters

Posted December 18, 2024December 18, 2024 in Biology, Faculty, Stories

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Ever wondered what it’s like to take your biology lessons to some of the most breathtaking ecosystems on Earth? In her compelling piece, Professor’s Passion for Biology Inspires Once-in-a-Lifetime Courses, Caroline Brobeil takes us into the world of Dr. Alejandro Vagelli, whose love for fieldwork and marine conservation inspires transformative learning experiences for students at Rutgers University–Camden.

From the rocky shores of Patagonia to the iconic Galápagos Islands, Vagelli doesn’t just teach biology—he immerses students in it. With decades of groundbreaking research, including his fight to protect the endangered Banggai cardinalfish, Vagelli exemplifies how fieldwork fosters deep connections to the natural world.

For students pursuing advanced degrees like the Biology MS or the Computational and Integrative Biology MS and PhD, opportunities like these offer hands-on experiences that complement rigorous academic training, preparing them for impactful careers in science.

Being in their natural environment provided valuable data and a significantly broader, more holistic understanding of the species…[y]ou cannot replicate that in a lab.
Alejandro Vagelli

Read the full article by Caroline Brobeil to explore how Vagelli’s approach inspires a deeper understanding of the natural world and equips the next generation of scientists for meaningful discovery.

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Join a Legacy of Excellence in Biological Research

The Master of Science in Biology program at Rutgers University–Camden offers an immersive experience in diverse biological fields, including cell and molecular biology, neuroscience, physiology, and ecology. With a 50-year legacy, the program emphasizes research, analytical, and communication skills, preparing graduates for Ph.D. programs or careers in academic research and teaching. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities in the Science and Joint Health Science buildings and engage with internationally recognized faculty whose research spans RNA evolution, mitochondrial energetics, bacterial shape dynamics, and more.

Bridging Disciplines: The Center for Computational and Integrative Biology

The Center for Computational and Integrative Biology (CCIB) at Rutgers–Camden combines experimental and computational methods to address complex biological questions. CCIB offers graduate programs leading to M.S. and Ph.D. degrees, emphasizing a holistic understanding of biological systems from molecular to population levels. The curriculum equips students like Basirat with the skills to conduct innovative research at the intersection of biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and physics.