The Institute of Biology was established in 1986 when the former Departments of Botany and Zoology merged. The merger was in response to the need to consolidate the facilities and manpower necessary for the development to an institution of higher learning and research in the various fields of basic and applied biology in the Philippines.

     Since its inception the Institute of Biology continues to provide quality education in biological sciences at the tertiary level while engaging in relevant research in the various fields of biology. The Institute is also active in extension-work, regularly conducting seminars and training workshops on biological concepts for secondary and tertiary educators. It also maintains collaborations with government agencies and other academic institutions, both national and international.

     In 2006 and 1998, the Institute was declared by the Commission on Higher Education of the Philippine Government a Center of Excellence in Biology, particularly in the field of Biodiversity. An annual grant of ₱3,000,000 for a period of three years has been given to the Institute in this regard.

1. To provide world-class undergraduate and graduate education in Integrative Biology;

2. To conduct innovative research in Integrative Biology that contributes to sustainable national and regional development; and

3. To provide expertise in Biology to enhance capability, transfer technology, and inform policy to address the needs of various stakeholders.

“The Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines – Diliman, as the leading Institution in Integrative Biology in the ASEAN region”