Biology 391 - Quantitative Imaging with Lab: From Molecules to Cells and Beyond

Fluorescence imaging offers a window to understanding the structure and function of living cells at sub-cellular resolution. This laboratory and lecture course will focus on advanced quantitative fluorescence microscopy techniques used for imaging various biological model systems and processes, from single molecules to cells to tissues. Students will learn the fundamentals of optics and microscopy and gain hands-on experience with classical and emerging imaging technology, including confocal microscopy, deconvolution and super-resolution methods, and live-cell imaging. Fluorescent probes and genetically encoded biosensors will be discussed and used to study dynamic cellular processes. In addition, the class will explore a range of image processing and analysis workflows. Lectures dealing with the theory, mechanics, and application of fluorescent imaging methods will be complemented by extended laboratory sessions in the Amherst Biological Imaging Center.
 

Pre-requisites: BIOL 191 or instructor permission.

There will be two 80-minute lectures and a weekly laboratory. Limited to 12 students. Spring semester. Professor Edwards.

How to handle overenrollment: Preference will be given to Biology majors by seniority.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Laboratory-based skills assessments, group work, readings, oral presentations, quantitative work, off-site visits to research facilities, and computational analysis.