Advanced molecular biology of eukaryotes and their viruses (including Ebola and HIV). Topics include genomics, bioinformatics, eukaryotic gene organization, regulation of gene expression, RNA processing, retroviruses, transposable elements, gene rearrangement, methods for studying human genes and genetic diseases, CRISPR, molecular biology of infectious diseases, genome projects and whole genome analysis. Reading assignments are from the primary literature. Each student presents an in-class presentation and writes a paper on a topic selected in consultation with the instructor.

Molecular level structure-function relationships in the nervous system. Topics include development of neurons, neuron-specific gene expression, mechanisms of neuronal plasticity in learning and memory, synaptic release, molecular biology of neurological disorders, and molecular neuropharmacology. Prerequisites: BIO 202, or BIO 230, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 20.

Students design experiments to answer current questions in cell biology with an emphasis on the techniques of light (fluorescence, confocal, TIRF) and electron (transmission and scanning) microscopy. The specific advantages and complementary type of data generated by each instrument are emphasized. Laboratory techniques for the introduction of fluorescent proteins into cells and other molecular and cellular details of experimental design are covered.

The theory, principles and techniques of light (fluorescence, confocal, TIRF) microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy in biology, including basic optics, instrument design and image analysis. Particular attention is paid to experimental design and how microscopy-based experiments answer biological questions at the molecular and cellular level. The use of fluorescent proteins in data generation is considered along with discussions of elucidating the relationship between structure and function in biology. Prerequisite: BIO 202.

The laboratory applies concepts discussed in lecture and uses several small-group projects in the field and laboratory to develop relevant skills for conducting marine-related research. Students learn to design and analyze experiments, and to write in the scientific style. Field trips to Maine and Cape Cod, Mass., provide hands-on experience with marine organisms in their natural habitats. Prerequisite: BIO 268, which must be taken concurrently.

The laboratory applies concepts discussed in lecture and uses several small-group projects in the field and laboratory to develop relevant skills for conducting marine-related research. Students learn to design and analyze experiments, and to write in the scientific style. Field trips to Maine and Cape Cod, Mass., provide hands-on experience with marine organisms in their natural habitats. Prerequisite: BIO 268, which must be taken concurrently.

The oceans cover over 75 percent of the Earth and are home to enormous biodiversity. Marine Ecology explores a variety of coastal and oceanic systems, focusing on natural and human-induced factors that affect biodiversity and the ecological balance in marine habitats. Using case studies, we study some successful conservation and management strategies, including Marine Protected Areas. This course uses a variety of readings, group activities and short writing assignments to develop vital skills such as effective oral, graphical and written communication; critical thinking; and problem solving.

Evolution frames much of biology by providing insights into how and why things change over time. For example, the study of evolution is essential to: understanding transitions in biodiversity across time and space, elucidating patterns of genetic variation within and between populations, and developing both vaccines and treatments for human diseases. Topics in this course include population genetics, molecular evolution, speciation, phylogenetics and macroevolution. Prerequisite: BIO 130 (154) or BIO 132 (150) or permission of the instructor.

Inquiry-based laboratory using techniques such as spectrophotometry, enzyme kinetics, bright field and fluorescence light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The emphasis is on student-designed projects. This course is a prerequisite for Biochemistry I Laboratory (BCH 253). Prerequisite: BIO 202, (should be taken concurrently).

Inquiry-based laboratory using techniques such as spectrophotometry, enzyme kinetics, bright field and fluorescence light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The emphasis is on student-designed projects. This course is a prerequisite for Biochemistry I Laboratory (BCH 253). Prerequisite: BIO 202, (should be taken concurrently).