This lab introduces the computational and quantitative tools underlying contemporary bioinformatics. Students explore the various approaches to phylogenetic reconstruction using molecular data, methods of data mining in genome databases, comparative genomics, structure-function modeling and the use of molecular data to reconstruct population and evolutionary history. Students are encouraged to explore datasets of particular interest to them. Corequisite: BIO 334 or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 20.

This course focuses on methods and approaches in the emerging fields of bioinformatics and molecular evolution. Discussions include the quantitative examination of genetic variation, selective and stochastic forces shaping proteins and catalytic RNA data mining, comparative analysis of whole genome data sets, comparative genomics and bioinformatics, and hypothesis testing in computational biology. The course explores the role of bioinformatics and comparative methods in the fields of molecular medicine, drug design and in systematic, conservation and population biology.

A laboratory course designed to complement the lecture material in BIO 332. Advanced techniques used to study the molecular biology of eukaryotes are learned in the context of a semester-long project. These methods include techniques for studying genomics and gene expression including: CRISPR, RNA interference, DNA sequence analysis, RT-PCR, genomics, bioinformatics and others. Corequisite: BIO 332. Prerequisite: BIO 231. Enrollment limited to 16.

Advanced molecular biology of eukaryotes and their viruses (including coronavirus, Ebola and HIV). Discussions 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.

Instrument specific course highly recommended for students interested in using state-of-the-art microscopy techniques in research (special studies, honors, SURF, etc.). Participants get exposure to basic and advanced light and electron microscopy techniques available at Smith. Mechanical and optical components are reviewed. Operational parameters for improving image quality and data collection using digital imaging and image analysis techniques are discussed.

Molecular level structure-function relationships in the nervous system. Topics include development of neurons and glia, neuron-specific gene expression, molecular biology of neurological disorders and the mechanisms of nervous system plasticity and repair. Prerequisites: BIO 200 and NSC 210 or equivalent. Enrollment limited to 20.

An introduction to the immune system covering the molecular, cellular and genetic bases of immunity to infectious agents. Discussions include immunodeficiencies, transplantation, allergies, immunopathology and immunotherapies. Concurrent registration in BIO 307 recommended. Prerequisite: BIO 202, BIO 204 or BIO 230.

A largely anatomical exploration of the evolutionary origins, adaptations and trends in the biology of vertebrates. Corequisite: BIO 272. Enrollment limited to 20.

A review of the evolutionary origins, adaptations and trends in the biology of vertebrates. BIO 273 is recommended but not required. No Prerequisites. Enrollment limited to 25.

This lab introduces students to plant morphology and identification through hands-on work with plant material. In addition, the class focuses on local native plants and the outstanding botanical collections in the Lyman Plant House. Includes field trips to other sites of botanical interest in the region. Corequisite: BIO 264. Enrollment limited to 20.