Skip to Main Content

BIOL 30: Principles of Biology

Guide to help students find sources for their Biology 30 lab paper on optogenetics.

What is a Primary Source in Biology?

A primary source in biology...

Reports original findings and ideas -----> look for the "methods" section in the article or book chapter
Generally takes the form of research papers published in peer-reviewed scientific journals
Book chapters may also be a primary source

More info and other types of primary sources in the sciences: http://library.albany.edu/infolit/prisci

What is Peer-Reviewed?

Ulrich's Periodicals Directory This link opens in a new window
Type in the name of the journal or magazine to see if it is peer-reviewed/refereed.

Anali Perry, a librarian from Arizona State University Libraries, gives a quick definition of a peer-reviewed article.