History and Philosophy of Biology

The History and Philosophy of Biology has emerged in recent years as one of the most dynamic and challenging sub-fields within history and philosophy of science. It covers a vast range of biological sciences, from molecular to ecosystem biology, and their applications in areas such as medicine and agriculture.

The University of Exeter hosts a large, rapidly growing, and innovative programme in the history and philosophy of biology. The International Society for the History, Philosophy and Social Studies of Biology recently held its biennial conference at Exeter, and numerous international scholars in the field visit Exeter each year.

Our programme of research is closely associated with that of the ESRC Centre for Genomics in Society (Egenis) which examines the social implications of new fields of biological research. We hold numerous workshops and seminars throughout the year with Egenis. These events cover a wide range of historical and philosophical topics from a variety of disciplinary perspectives. Visit our seminars and workshops web pages for more information.

Teaching faculty

The core teaching faculty in history and philosophy of biology are:

• Paul Griffiths
• Sabina Leonelli
• Staffan Müller-Wille
• John Dupre

Levels of study

We offer three integrated levels of study:

• Third-year undergraduate module: Sex and Death: Introduction to Philosophy of Biology
• MA History and Philosophy of Biology
• MPhil/PhD

More information

Email Sabina Leonelli or Steffan Müller-Wille more information.