Topics course: This course examines the impact of infectious diseases on our society. New pathogens have recently been identified, while existing pathogens have warranted increased investigation for multiple reasons, including as causative agents of chronic disease and cancer and as agents of bioterrorism. Specific emphasis on the molecular basis of virulence in a variety of organisms is addressed along with the diseases they cause and the public health measures taken to address these pathogens. Prerequisites BIO 202, or BIO 204. Recommended: BIO 306.

Topics course: This seminar explores the diversity of reproduction in mammals from genetics to environmental adaptations, but all from the perspective of female mammals.  How does the female perspective change the way we think about reproduction?  For instance, conception vs fertilization; embryo rejection vs miscarriage.  We cover basic concepts as well as the biases and assumptions present in the study of mammalian reproduction. Prerequisite BIO 130 (154) or permission of the instructor.

Topics course: Coral reefs occupy a small portion of Earth’s surface, but their importance to the marine ecosystem is great. This seminar considers the geologic importance and ecological interactions of coral reefs. We focus on the status of coral reefs worldwide, considering effects of environmental and anthropogenic disturbances (e.g., major storms, eutrophication, acidification, overfishing). Methods for reef conservation are examined. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.

Students observe the great diversity of microorganisms present in different habitats. As an introduction, students sample microbes associated with specific plants plus microbes present across the gradients of temperature and moisture within the Lyman Plant House. Emphasis is on completion of a research project. As part of this project, students collect samples from a vernal pond and learn about the change in microbial community over time. Microscopy and molecular techniques are used to examine organisms and communities.

This course focuses on the origin and diversification of microorganisms, with emphasis on eukaryotic lineages. The first weeks of lecture cover the basics of evolutionary analysis, and the origin and diversification of bacteria and archaea. From there, we focus on the diversification of eukaryotes, with specific lectures on topics such as microbes and AIDS, and the origins of plants, animals and fungi. Evaluation is based on a combination of tests, discussion and an independent research paper. Prerequisite: BIO 130(154) or 230. Laboratory (BIO 371) is recommended but not required.

A laboratory investigation of membrane channels and post-synaptic receptors using intracellular and extracellular recording and voltage clamping. Students will design two independent research projects, one on acetylcholine receptors in motoneurons, and a second project on chloride channels in oocytes. In addition to one laboratory afternoon each week, the class will meet as a seminar one evening each week to read and discuss research articles related to their projects. Prerequisite: NSC 110 or 210. Enrollment limit 12.

A laboratory investigation of membrane channels and post-synaptic receptors using intracellular and extracellular recording and voltage clamping. Students will design two independent research projects, one on acetylcholine receptors in motoneurons, and a second project on chloride channels in oocytes. In addition to one laboratory afternoon each week, the class will meet as a seminar one evening each week to read and discuss research articles related to their projects. Prerequisite: NSC 110 or 210. Enrollment limit 12.

A laboratory investigation of membrane channels and post-synaptic receptors using intracellular and extracellular recording and voltage clamping. Students will design two independent research projects, one on acetylcholine receptors in motoneurons, and a second project on chloride channels in oocytes. In addition to one laboratory afternoon each week, the class will meet as a seminar one evening each week to read and discuss research articles related to their projects. Prerequisite: NSC 110 or 210. Enrollment limit 12.

A review of the evolutionary origins, adaptations, and trends in the biology of vertebrates. Laboratory (BIO 273) is recommended but not required. No Prerequisites.

A laboratory designed to complement the lecture material in 230. Laboratory and computer projects investigate methods in molecular biology including recombinant DNA, gene cloning and DNA sequencing as well as contemporary bioinformatics, data mining and the display and analysis of complex genome databases. Prerequisite: BIO 230 (should be taken concurrently).