The theory, principles and techniques of light (fluorescence, confocal, DIC) 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.

This lab introduces students to plant morphology and identification through hands-on work with plant material. In addition, we focus on local native plants and the outstanding botanical collections in the Lyman Plant House. Field trips to other sites of botanical interest in the region are also taken. BIO 264 must be taken concurrently.

This course explores the diversity of plant life and investigates its evolutionary origins and history through a mixture of lecture, lab and discussion activities. A key focus of the course is the ecological and environmental context of major evolutionary developments in the Land Plants, including their adaptations to various abiotic challenges, as well as antagonistic and mutualistic interactions with other organisms. Our survey of plant diversity is guided by recent phylogenetic studies and we make use of the outstanding living collections in the Lyman Plant House. Prerequisite: BIO 154.

This yearlong research-based lecture-laboratory course exposes students to fundamental concepts across the natural and life sciences through interdisciplinary research. Cannot be repeated for credit. Course only open to first-year students. Enrollment limit of 18 students. Fall: 1 credit; spring: 4 credits; 5 credits total. (E) Does hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" pose any environmental danger? In the fall students will read and discuss all aspects of fracking from the politics to the science, and then engage in laboratory research the following spring semester.

Techniques for 2015: RNA-Seq. In the post-genomics era we are now faced with deciphering the ever-increasing complexity of macromolecules and their regulation. RNA-Seq allows us to use next-generation sequencing to analyze the expression pattern of every gene in an organism (i.e., the transcriptome) in response to varying conditions. Going from sample preparation through to data analysis, this primarily laboratory-based course will have students use state-of-the-art molecular techniques to complete student/faculty - designed projects. Prerequisites: BIO 230 and 231.

Advanced exploration of photography as a means of visual expression. Lectures, assignments and self-generated projects provide a basis for critiques. A required fee of $75 to cover group-supplied materials is charged at the time of registration. Prerequisites: 282 and permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 15.

Advanced study in printmaking. Emphasis on color printing in lithography, block printing and photo-printmaking. Prerequisite: 269 or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 12. A required fee of $75 to cover group-supplied materials is charged at the time of registration. Students may require additional supplies as well and are responsible for purchasing them directly.

Advanced problems in drawing, including emphasis on technique and conceptualization. The focus of this course shifts annually to reflect the technical and ideational perspective of the faculty member teaching it. Prerequisite: ARS 163 and ARS 264. Enrollment limited to 15.

An introduction to intaglio printmaking, particularly etching and drypoint. A required fee of $75 to cover group-supplied materials is charged at the time of registration. Prerequisite: ARS 161, 162, 163, 172, 173, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 12.

Printmaking using the flat-bed offset press with emphasis on color monoprinting. A required fee of $75 to cover group-supplied materials is charged at the time of registration. Students may require additional supplies as well and are responsible for purchasing them directly. Prerequisites: 161 or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 15.