Welcom message:

On behalf of the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Royal University of Phnom Penh, I am honored to extend a warm welcome to students, faculty members, collaborators, and stakeholders.

Since its establishment in 1988, the Department of Biology has been committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement in the life sciences. It has played a vital role in advancing biological education and research in Cambodia, contributing to the development of skilled human resources and supporting national priorities in science, education, and sustainable development.

Guided by our vision to become a leading department in biology education, research, and social engagement, we strive to uphold high academic standards and foster an inclusive, dynamic learning environment. Our curriculum integrates fundamental biological knowledge with practical laboratory, field-based training and applied biological sciences, while promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical responsibility.

The department offers comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs that prepare graduates for diverse career pathways in education, research, environmental management, healthcare, and industry. Through strong national, regional, and international collaborations, we continuously enhance our academic programs and research capacity, ensuring alignment with global standards and emerging scientific challenges.

We remain dedicated to continuous improvement, innovation, and the advancement of biological sciences. We warmly welcome all students and partners to join us in contributing to Cambodia’s sustainable future.

Onnorong UK

Head of Department

Department of Biology

The Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, at the Royal University of Phnom Penh is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement in the life sciences. Our mission is to equip students with strong scientific knowledge and practical skills while advancing understanding of Cambodia’s rich biodiversity and its role in sustainable development.

Established in 1988, the Department of Biology has grown into one of Cambodia’s leading centers for biological education and research. Over the past three decades, the department has played a vital role in training human resources for the nation, preparing graduates to become teachers and professionals in biology and related fields, thereby supporting national needs in science education and development. In parallel, faculty and students have contributed to basic and applied research in ecology, conservation biology, botany, and entomology.

The Department has benefited from long-standing support by international organizations, including Maryknoll (staff development and student resources), Australian Volunteers International (capacity building and curriculum development), and AUPELF (financial support). In recent years, we have expanded collaborations with national, regional, and international universities to strengthen staff and student research, training, and capacity building. The department also works closely with local and international organizations in the biological sciences, providing students with opportunities to develop professional skills and gain exposure to future career pathways. These partnerships have enhanced institutional capacity, expanded facilities, and enriched the academic environment for both staff and students.

Vision 

To become a leading department in biology education, research, and social engagement, while upholding ethical practices.

Mission

To contribute to sustainable development goals (SDGs), biological research, and conservation on national, regional, and global levels by:

• Equipping students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in biological sciences,

• Strengthening scientific research capacity, leadership and management, and professional communication,

• Enhancing capacity building and professional development through training programs and postgraduate education,

• Actively engaging with communities and society to promote biological awareness and sustainability.

Goals

1. To produce competent graduates who can pursue careers as biology teachers, lecturers, conservationists, researchers, and policy makers. 
2. To equip students with professional skills in laboratory techniques, fieldwork, scientific communication, research, and academic supervision, enabling them to become experts in biology and advance to postgraduate studies. 
3. To strengthen the environment for high-quality scientific research and effective communication in biological sciences. 
4. To provide students with practical knowledge and hands-on experience to support innovation and entrepreneurial initiatives in biology. 
5. To deliver technical expertise and support to local and regional communities in areas related to biological sciences.

Program Educational Philosophy (PEP)

The department of biology is dedicated to providing a dynamic and inclusive learning environment, encouraging students to understand the complexities of life science. The department uses an active learning approach to integrate fundamental biological concepts with practical laboratory and fieldwork. The curriculum is designed to equip students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and ethical considerations in biology education, research, healthcare, biodiversity, and environmental management, preparing them to tackle real-world biological challenges. 

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

The Biology undergraduate program has established Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) aligned with the institution's vision and mission to cultivate students to achieve three specific goals within three years of completing their studies:

1. Graduates will possess a deep understanding of fundamental biological concepts, enabling them to appreciate the complexity of living organisms and their interactions.

2. Graduates will design, conduct, and interpret research in various biological disciplines using appropriate methodologies and tools, critically evaluate scientific literature, and apply statistical and analytical techniques to draw valid conclusions.

Graduates will apply theoretical and practical biological knowledge, along with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while engaging in lifelong learning and community.

Commitment for the future

The Department of Biology currently offers comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs that integrate classroom learning, laboratory training, and fieldwork. Students begin with a Foundation Studies course in their first year before progressing to different training in zoology, botany, microbiology, ecology, biotechnology, and conservation science. In addition to subject knowledge, students develop essential laboratory and fieldwork skills that prepare them for diverse career pathways. With Cambodia’s growing demand for laboratory-trained professionals in agriculture, medicine, and food production, our graduates are well equipped to work in medical laboratories, plant breeding farms, breweries, food production facilities, environmental organizations, and government ministries, or to pursue advanced training as educators and researchers.

With a strong academic foundation, a dedicated team of staff, and a vibrant community of students and alumni, the Department of Biology continues to play a central role in advancing science education and supporting Cambodia’s sustainable future.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

A. Knowledge

PLO1: Describe and explain the fundamental biological concepts and principles including botany, zoology, ecology, microbiology, evolution and genetics to understand the complexity of living organisms and their interactions.

PLO2: Design, conduct, and interpret the research in specific areas of biology using appropriate methodologies and tools, and evaluate scientific literature and data to make valid conclusions.

B. Cognitive skills

PLO3: Apply theoretical and practical biological knowledge, along with critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address real-world social and environmental issues.

C. Interpersonal skills and responsibility

PLO4: Engage in lifelong learning and professional development to stay current with advances in biological sciences and adapt to the real-world changes.

PLO5: Demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, taking responsibility for tasks, effectively managing projects, and exhibiting leadership qualities in diverse contexts.

D. Numerical skills, information technology and communication

PLO6: Determine and utilize software/applications, statistical tools, laboratory equipment, and other relevant technologies to conduct research and experimental work in biology.

PLO7: Communicate biological concepts, research findings, and their implications with clarity and precision to both scientific and general audiences, while developing well-organized reports, research papers, and presentations that comply with scientific standards.

E. Psychomotor skills

PLO8: Identify and utilize laboratory and field equipment safely and effectively for biological experiments, data collection and analysis using appropriate biological tools.

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