Biology 499CB - HonsThes-MolMech/CancerFall

This two-semester thesis seminar will explore various aspects of the molecular mechanisms of cancer. In the first semester students will focus on developing a topic for their thesis. Students will learn about foundational concepts such as oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, cell cycle regulation, apoptotic mechanisms, angiogenesis and cancer treatment options through classroom instruction and analysis of the primary literature. As students explore these foundational topics, they will focus on the techniques used to answer questions about cancer at the molecular level while developing basic laboratory skills such as sterile technique, microscopy, and analysis of changes in gene expression (RNA and protein). Students will complete a literature review on the topic of their research question by the end of the first semester with the goal of identifying gaps in current knowledge and formulating individual testable hypotheses. In the second semester students will continue to conduct literature-based research to further address their research questions and develop their theses. The final thesis will include a more thorough interrogation of the literature building on the review from semester one and detailed plans for future research directions that incorporate cutting-edge techniques and innovative approaches.

Open to junior and senior Biology majors in Commonwealth Honors College. BIOLOGY 285 or 311