Bioscience noun: Any of the branches of natural science dealing with the structure and behavior of living organisms [syn: life science] Source: WordNet ® 2.0, © 203 Princeton University) Life science noun: Any one of the branches of science concerned with the structure and behaviour of living organisms, such as biology, botany, zoology, physiology, or biochemistry. (Source: Collins Concise Dictionary, 21st Century Edition)

This website aims to give readers, whether the scientists
of tomorrow or the curious at heart, a glimpse into the fascinating world of biosciences. The dictionary defines
this particular scientific field as: "Any of the branches of natural science dealing with the structure and behavior of living organisms."

A synonym is life science, and simplistically speaking, life, regardless of its shape or form, begins with a cell.

Thus, as part of its commitment to enhance public awareness around biosciences and especially South Africa’s wealth of bioresearch, the National Department of Science and Technology compiled this resource booklet to start with the very basic essence of life.

It looks at some of the building blocks of genetics: DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid), inheritance, and enzymes. Each with an easy-to-follow experiment. Then it takes a closer look into the genetic highlights and challenges of marine
biology in a growing field of research in South Africa.

Why is the coelacanth important? And why should we
pay any attention to the great salt waters that cover more than two-thirds of planet Earth? Read on and find out!

Biosciences booklet

All the information on this site is available in a downloadable booklet:
Biosciences - science about life
[file size 3.47 MB]

The booklet was published by the South African Agency
for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) in accordance with the Department of Science and
Technology (DST) initiative to promote bioscience.