The University of Pennsylvania (commonly referred to as Penn or UPenn) is a private Ivy League research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is one of nine colonial colleges chartered prior to the U.S. Declaration of Independence when Benjamin Franklin, the university's founder and first president, advocated for an educational institution that trained leaders in academia, commerce, and public service. Penn identifies as the fourth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, though this representation is challenged by other universities. Benjamin Franklin and other Philadelphians established the university in 1749, which would make it the fifth-oldest institution of higher education in the U.S.
The University of Pennsylvania's Biology Department in Philadelphia is a distinguished center for biological research and education, tracing its roots to the university's founding. It has evolved into a dynamic hub where a diverse community explores life from molecules to ecosystems. Renowned for its comprehensive approach, the department offers a wide spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students for successful careers. Cutting-edge research spans numerous fields, supported by state-of-the-art facilities in the Life Sciences Quad. A strong emphasis on collaboration, both within the department and across Penn's campus, fosters interdisciplinary discovery. Choosing Penn Biology means joining a community with a rich history, access to leading faculty, hands-on learning, and opportunities to contribute to meaningful scientific advancements in a vibrant urban setting.
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