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Natural Sciences (Biological)

Fellows

• Professor Abigail Fowden (Physiology)
• Dr Sandra Fulton (Director of Studies) (Biochemistry)
• Dr Veronica Bennett (Director of Studies) (Plant Sciences, Ecology)
• Dr Nik Cunniffe (Plant Sciences)

Details and statistics

• Number of students admitted per year (average over 2008-2010): 15
• Entry requirements: At least two A levels from Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics. AS level Chemistry is essential and prospective students are encouraged to take Mathematics to at least AS level, although this is not an absolute pre-requisite. Successful applicants are likely to have good grades in at least 3 subjects at AS level.
• Typical offer: A*AA or the equivalent if other examination systems are followed e.g. International Baccalaureate
• Interview arrangements: Places are offered on the basis of examination results, school reports and two double 30 minute interviews. All the interviews are with Fellows in Biological Sciences or Chemistry and concentrate on testing the candidate’s ability in and enthusiasm for science. We are happy to consider those who wish to defer entry to take a gap year.
• We often recruit from the ‘pool’. Candidates coming through this route may be interviewed in January, as described above, in the same way as those who are interviewed in December.
• Course details: these can be obtained from the Natural Sciences homepage.

Natural Sciences (Biological) at Cambridge

In Cambridge most science subjects are taught within the Natural Sciences Tripos. This encompasses a wide range of both the Physical and Biological Sciences. The course is divided into three Parts: IA, IB and II, one for each of the three years.

Students have the choice of three science subjects from a great breadth of subjects in Part IA, taking these along with one of three Mathematics courses (one for those who have not studied Maths beyond GCSE, and two more advanced courses, one designed for the biological and one for the physical sciences). In Part IB students choose three subjects to study in more depth and in Part II normally specialise in one subject. Entry into some Part II subjects is restricted in number. Most students graduate after three years, but those reading Biochemistry may apply to take Part III and graduate after four years. The decision about the four year course is made at the end of Part IB.

Most Biological Sciences lectures and practical classes take place at the University New Museum and Downing Sites. Physical Sciences are also taught at the West Cambridge Site.

Studying at Girton

Students are guided in their subject choices by a Director of Studies, who is also available throughout the year for guidance on any aspect of academic work. Students also have a Tutor for pastoral matters.

In the first two years students will have weekly supervisions from fellows or research workers on each of their subjects. These supervisions are generally in small groups of three or four. These give a forum for discussion and the opportunity to practice essay writing, practical problems and other key skills. They also provide students with a regular meeting at which to sort out any course related difficulties. Supervisions often take place in College or at the College site in town at Wolfson Court, but some groups meet in research departments. Supervisors provide regular feedback to students through discussion and marking of work. There is also more formal feedback once a term via meetings with Directors of Studies.

We also offer sessions on essay writing and there is the opportunity to get training in presentation skills. There is an annual Science Communication Prize competition, where students are asked to make a presentation that will engage a non scientific audience.

There is a student run Biological Society to encourage social interaction across year groups. Many of our students work in science labs in the summer after their second year and then present their work to the Biological Society.

The College has a well-stocked library which keeps copies of recommended texts and additional study material. Quiet study areas are also available. There are fully equipped computer rooms and most student rooms have connections to the university network. Where appropriate undergraduates are encouraged to take advantage of the wide range of courses run by the University Computing Service to extend their IT skills.

The College environment encourages socialising among students of many disciplines. The JCR committee (undergraduates elected by undergraduates) run a college parenting scheme where each new undergraduate has direct contacts within the existing undergraduate community to help introduce them to Girton. Many college societies and sports clubs exist which foster these connections. The relatively large numbers of students studying Biological Sciences also gives good opportunity for socialising and peer group academic support within the Natural Sciences.

Although students are admitted to the Natural Sciences Tripos at Girton under the broad headings of Phyiscal and Biological Sciences, the decision is not irrevocable, and after trying out a broad range of subjects in the first year some students do change the emphasis of their studies. The decision to allow such transfer is dependent on the receiving Director of Studies.

The Biological Sciences community in Girton is also enhanced by the post-graduate members working towards Masters and Ph.D degrees, of which there are approximately 10 at any one time. Most graduate students live at Wolfson Court or out of College.

Enquiries

The Directors of Studies are always pleased to hear from prospective applicants. Further enquiries should be directed via the Admissions Office, who will forward your enquiry.