Performance study - individual instruction.

Performance study - individual instruction.

Reading and understanding research reports from the primary scientific literature is an essential skill for any scientist. Likewise, critiquing experimental proposals and freshly-minted data is one of the core components of the pursuit of science. Using the Biology Department Seminar series as a springboard, this course seeks to familiarize students with the process of understanding, appreciating, and critiquing scientific manuscripts.

A consideration of the physiological processes involved in the control of human body functions. We will study the mechanisms for regulating individual organ systems and how these mechanisms respond to changing needs of the individual. Our examination of the physiological controls will include an analysis of the underlying cellular and molecular processes that drive the mechanisms and integrate the activities of the different systems.

Performance study - individual instruction.

Recently, the development of novel technologies for probing neurobiological questions has proceeded at a dizzying pace. This course focuses on three broad fields in neurotechnology: optical methods for examining neural activity and structures, innovations in electrophysiology, and mind-machine interfaces. Specific topics may include: optogenetics, 2-photon microscopy, 'brainbow' imaging, methods for single ion channel recording, and neuroprosthetics. Presentation, discussion, and critique of research articles will form the core of the course.

Over the past quarter century, molecular genetic methods have become increasingly important in ecological research. In this course, we will examine contemporary molecular genetic tools and learn how they can be used to answer ecological questions. Topics will include: reconstruction of ancestral relationships; measuring the size, diversity, and spatial structure of populations; characterization of migration and dispersal patterns; and identification of sensitive or threatened species and populations.

Invasive species have become a common focus for land managers and gardeners around the world, but is there anything fundamentally new, different, or threatening about these organisms? These new arrivals potentially increase local biodiversity and offer excellent examples of evolution and ecological interactions, but they also incite scientists to uncharacteristic value judgments. We will discuss the science and politics behind invasive species and explore the secrets of their success and the realities of their impacts.