Biology
Potential biology majors should select a sequence of courses that will acquaint them with a variety of organisms, and their molecular and cellular structure, physiology, heredity, development, evolution, and ecological interactions. Biologists pursue careers in biological research, study in the medical sciences, teaching at the college or high school level, work in environmental sciences, or work in numerous commercial and industrial areas.
Requirements for a Major
1. Biology 125 and 126 (majors are required to complete both introductory courses, with a grade of "C-" or better before taking any other courses in the department)
2. One course from each of the following groups including their laboratories where listed separately:
a. Molecular and Cell Biology (240 Genetics/241 Genetics Laboratory, 280 Cell Biology/281 Cell Biology Laboratory, 310 Immunology/311 Immunology Laboratory, 380 Biochemistry/381 Biochemistry Laboratory, 382 Molecular Biology/383 Molecular Biology Laboratory)
b. Organismic Biology (234 Microbiology with Laboratory/235 Microbiology Lab, 236 Plant Biology, 238 Entomology/239 Entomology Laboratory, 252 Environmental Animal Physiology/253 Environmental Animal Physiology Laboratory, 332 Human Physiology /333 Human Physiology Laboratory, 342 Animal Developmental Biology/343 Animal Developmental Biology Laboratory, 344 Seminar: The Molecular Basis of Plant Development, 386 Neurobiology/387 Neurobiology Laboratory)
c. Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (238 Entomology/239 Entomology Laboratory, 248 Behavioral Ecology, 250 Marine Ecology, 321 Ecosystem Ecology/322 Ecosystem Ecology Laboratory, 338 Bioinformatics and Genomics/339 Bioinformatics and Genomics lab, 350 Evolution, 352 Population Ecology/353 Population Ecology Laboratory, 374 Seminar: Grassland Ecology)
3. Three electives, which may include six-credits of Biology 394, Biology 210, a seminar, or any of the courses listed above. If you choose a course for an elective that offers a laboratory section, then the lab must be taken in order for the course to count toward the major.
4. One course must emphasize data interpretation and analysis of the primary literature. Ideally, you should complete this seminar course prior to registering for Biology 400 (integrative exercise). Courses that fulfill this requirement include: 344, 358-379, 382/383, 384, 385, 389. A maximum of two courses may be taken from this category.
5. Critical Reading and Analysis of Primary Literature (Biology 399).
6. Integrative Exercise (Biology 400 two terms).
Laboratory work is an integral part of most biology courses. In courses in which registration for the laboratory is separable from the lecture portion of the course, all biology majors are required to register concurrently for laboratory and lecture in order for these courses to count toward requirements for the major unless otherwise noted. No course taken at another school may be used to meet the requirements for the major without prior approval of the Biology faculty.
Because of the close interrelationship of Biology to other sciences, supporting work in other areas is necessary. The minimum requirement includes 1) Physics: two five-week courses or one ten-week courses from 131-165 for a total of 6 credits; or Mathematics 215; and 2) Chemistry 123 or 128; and 3) Chemistry 230 or 233. The need for additional courses in allied sciences and mathematics will vary with the professional plans of the student.
The Introductory Sequence
The Introductory Biology sequence consists of two courses, Biology 125 and 126, both of which are required before any further upper-level course work in Biology. The two courses can be taken in either order. Students who received a score of 5 on the AP exam or a score of 6 or 7 on the IB exam are exempted from Biology 125, and only need to take Biology 126 before taking upper-level Biology courses. Prerequisites for Biology 126 include Chemistry 123 or 128; or AP Chemistry score of 4 or 5; or IB score of 5, 6 or 7.
There are two versions of Biology 125, and students are urged to make a thoughtful choice of the appropriate offering based on their background and learning style. The winter term offering of Biology 125 is designed for students who 1) earned a score of 3 or 4 in AP Biology, or 2) received a score of 5 in IB Biology, or 3) earned a grade of B or higher in Honors or Advanced Biology in high school. In addition, these students are expected to have mastered basic concepts of chemistry in either a high school or college chemistry course.
Biology Courses
BIOL 100 Viruses: Invisible Invaders Zika, Ebola, and HIV are now part of our common vocabulary. Through the study of both ancient and emerging viruses, we will explore how human behavior, globalization, and global climate change influence viral spread and evolution, and how viruses impact human populations. We will examine health disparities in the context of viral infection, the contribution of viruses to cancer therapy and the treatment of inherited diseases, and ethical issues related to viral research and treatment through readings, discussions, and your own research and writing. 6 credits; WR1, AI; Fall; Debby R Walser-Kuntz
BIOL 101 Human Reproduction and Sexuality The myths surrounding human reproduction and sexuality may out weigh our collective knowledge and understanding. This course will review the basic biology of all aspects of reproduction--from genes to behavior--in an attempt to better understand one of the more basic and important processes in nature. Topics will vary widely and will be generated in part by student interest. A sample of topics might include: hormones, PMS, fertilization, pregnancy, arousal, attraction, the evolution of the orgasm, and the biology of sexuality. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Spring; Matt Rand
BIOL 125 Genes, Evolution, and Development Emphasizes the role of genetic information in biological systems. Under this theme, we cover subjects from the molecular to the population levels of organization. Topics include the nature of inheritance and life cycles, structure/function of DNA, gene expression and regulation, the changing genetic makeup of species as they evolve, and the development of individual organisms from zygotes. 6 credits; QRE, LS; Winter; Mark McKone, Stephan G Zweifel
BIOL 125 Genes, Evolution, and Development: A Problem Solving Approach This offering of Biology 125 offers a problem solving approach and covers the same concepts as the winter version of Biology 125. The course format allows time in class to apply new concepts by working through case study type problems with faculty present. Students enter Carleton from a wide variety of academic experiences, and this offering of Biology 125 is designed to provide a level playing field for students regardless of previous science background. In addition, the active learning component of the course is beneficial for students who like to learn by doing. Students who complete this course are well-prepared to continue on to Biology 126. 6 credits; QRE, LS; Fall, Winter; Bridget Jacques-Fricke, Jennifer M Wolff, Mark McKone, Stephan G Zweifel
BIOL 126 Energy Flow in Biological Systems Follow the pathways through which energy and matter are acquired, stored, and utilized within cells, organisms, and ecosystems. The focus moves among the different levels of organization from protein function to nutrient movement through ecosystems. Prerequisite: Chemistry 123 or 128. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Winter, Spring; David Hougen-Eitzman, Raka M Mitra, Matt Rand, Rika E Anderson
BIOL 209 Writing in the Sciences This course will explore written communication in the sciences, with a particular focus on the biological sciences. Throughout the term, students will study scientific writing intended for different target audiences. For example, students will study the stylistic differences in science writing directed at the educated public and at specialists in a narrow field. Reading assignments will consist of popular writing in the sciences as well as primary literature in the biological sciences. Students will be assigned short and long writing assignments to emulate these styles. An emphasis will be placed on improving writing style through peer and faculty review of writing samples. Prerequisite: Biology 125, 126, Chemistry 122, 123 or 128 or instructor permission. 6 credits; NE, WR2; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 210 Global Change Biology Environmental problems are caused by a complex mix of physical, biological, social, economic, political, and technological factors. This course explores how these environmental problems affect life on Earth by examining the biological processes underlying natural ecological systems and the effects of global environmental changes such as resources consumption and overharvesting, land-use change, climate warming, pollution, extinction and biodiversity loss, and invasive species. Prerequisite: One introductory science lab course (Biology 125, 126, Chemistry 123, 128, Geology 110, 115,120 or 135). 6 credits; QRE, NE; Winter; Daniel L Hernández
BIOL 212 Australia Program: Ecological Field Research This course emphasizes field research methodology, with emphasis on comparison of ecological characteristics among terrestrial habitats in Australia. Major topics will include design and analysis of experiments, as well as use of primary literature to inform research questions. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and at least one upper-level Biology course related to ecology, evolution or organismal biology. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Annie Bosacker
BIOL 234 Microbiology with Laboratory A study of the metabolism, genetics, structure, and function of microorganisms. While presented in the framework of the concepts of cellular and molecular biology, the emphasis will be on the uniqueness and diversity of the microbial world. The course integrates lecture and laboratory, and will fulfill requirements of a microbiology course with lab for veterinary or pharmacy schools. A one-credit trailing course, Philosophy 198, CRISPR and You, is available to interested students. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126; Concurrent registration in Biology 235. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Spring; Bruce W Jarvis
BIOL 235 Microbiology Laboratory Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126; Concurrent registration in Biology 234. 2 credits; Spring; Bruce W Jarvis
BIOL 238 Entomology Insects are one of the most successful groups of organisms on the planet, playing major roles in all terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. In addition, since insects are ubiquitous they affect human endeavors on many fronts, both positively (e.g., crop pollination) and negatively (damage to crops and transmitting disease). This class will focus on the biology of insects, including physiology, behavior, and ecology. Many examples will highlight current environmental issues. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126; Concurrent registration in Biology 239. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 239 Entomology Laboratory Field and laboratory investigation of living insects. Synoptic examination of the major orders of insects, including evolution of different groups, physiology, structure, and identification. Field labs will focus on insect ecology and collection techniques for making a comprehensive insect collection. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 238. 2 credits; NE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 240 Genetics A study of the transmission of genetic information between generations of organisms, and of the mechanism of expression of information within an individual organism. The main emphasis will be on the physical and chemical basis of heredity; mutational, transmissional and functional analysis of the genetic material, and gene expression. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Winter, Spring; Jennifer M Wolff, Aaron M Broege
BIOL 241 Genetics Laboratory Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 or instructor permission. 2 credits; NE; Winter, Spring; Jennifer M Wolff, Aaron M Broege
BIOL 242 Vertebrate Morphology Over 500 million years of evolution has produced a rich diversity of structure and functional morphology in vertebrates. We will use comparative methods to help us understand the various selective forces and constraints that produced the vertebrate forms living today. Laboratory dissection of a variety of preserved vertebrates will allow us to examine how these fascinating animals monitor and move through their environment, procure, ingest and circulate nutrients, respirate, and reproduce. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credits; NE; Winter; Matt Rand
BIOL 248 Behavioral Ecology Behavioral ecologists strive to understand the complex ways that ecological pressures influence the evolution of behavioral strategies. It can be argued that animals face a relatively small set of basic challenges: they must acquire food, water, and mates, and they must avoid danger. Yet we see a rich diversity of solutions to these problems. Consider foraging behavior, for example. All animals must acquire energy, but some filter particles out of sea water, others graze on nearly inedible grasses, while still others hunt in cooperative packs. In this course we will consider such topics as foraging, communication, sociality, and conflict. By focusing on the functions and evolutionary histories of behaviors, we strive to better understand the puzzle of behavioral diversity. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 250 Australia/New Zealand Program: Marine Ecology This course will explore the population, community, and evolutionary ecology of marine organisms, with a focus on the Great Barrier Reef. Major topics will include coral reef structure and function, diversity of fauna and flora, as well as impacts of climate change and fisheries on reef ecology. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and one upper-level Biology course related to ecology, evolution or organismal Biology. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Annie Bosacker
BIOL 252 Environmental Animal Physiology This course explores the physiological adaptations animals employ to survive in a wide variety of environments. Animals maintain physiological functions in the face of environmental extremes in heat, cold, aridity, deep ocean pressure, salinity, and the lack of oxygen in water or at high altitude, to name a few. An organism's ability to cope with environmental extremes has a large impact on the geographic distribution of many species. Associated laboratory will emphasize experimentation and application of physiological concepts in living organisms. Concurrent registration in Biology 253 required. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Fall; Matt Rand
BIOL 253 Environmental Animal Physiology Laboratory Concurrent registration in Biology 252 required. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 252; Biology 125 and Biology 126. 2 credits; NE; Fall; Matt Rand
BIOL 255 Australia Program: Learning Country, Culture and Environment in Australia In this course students will learn about the natural history of the Australian landscape and the cultural history of the people who have settled there. We will specifically consider the role of sustainability in Aboriginal, colonial, and modern Australian cultures. The majority of work for this class will be reading selected works that showcase central concepts. This reading should be completed before the program begins, and work will be evaluated through written work. In Australia, students will learn through lectures and cultural immersion, and they will synthesize what they learn in reflective essays. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credits; NE, IS; Winter; Annie Bosacker
BIOL 280 Cell Biology An examination of the structures and processes that underlie the life of cells, both prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Topics to be covered include methodologies used to study cells; organelles, membranes and other cellular components; protein targeting within the cell; and cellular communication and division. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and concurrent registration in Biology 281. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Fall; Raka M Mitra
BIOL 281 Cell Biology Laboratory The focus of the laboratory will be on current techniques used to study cellular structure and function. Concurrent registration in Biology 280 required. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 280; Biology 125 and 126. 2 credits; NE; Fall; Raka M Mitra
BIOL 310 Immunology This course will examine the role of the immune system in defense, allergic reactions, and autoimmunity. Topics to be covered include the structure and function of antibodies, cytokines, the role of the major histocompatibility complex in antigen presentation, cellular immunity, immunodeficiencies, and current techniques used to study immune responses. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and either Biology 240 or 280. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Winter; Debby R Walser-Kuntz
BIOL 311 Immunology Laboratory In this laboratory course, students will explore experimental design, immunology-related techniques, and the communication of scientific findings. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and either Biology 240 or 280 and concurrent registration in Biology 310. 2 credits; NE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 321 Ecosystem Ecology Ecosystem ecology involves the study of energy and material flow through systems, including both the biotic (animals, plants, microbes) and abiotic (soil, water, atmosphere) components. Topics include the major elemental cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous), patterns of energy flow, and the controls of these fluxes for different ecosystems. Current environmental issues are emphasized as case studies, including climate change, land use change, human alterations of nutrient cycles, and biodiversity effects on ecosystems. Not open to students who have taken Biology 221. Concurrent registration in Biology 322 required. Prerequisite: one 200 level course in Biology or Geology 230, 258, 285 or Environmental Studies 244, 254, 260, 265, 288; Biology 126. 6 credits; WR2, QRE, NE; Fall; Daniel L Hernández
BIOL 322 Ecosystem Ecology Laboratory Prerequisite: Requires concurrent registration in Biology 321. 2 credits; NE; Fall; Daniel L Hernández
BIOL 332 Human Physiology Human Physiology seeks to understand the fundamental mechanisms responsible for the diverse functions of the body. Course topics include the function and regulation of the various physiological systems (nervous, circulatory, endocrine, excretory, respiratory, digestive, etc.), biochemistry, cellular physiology, homeostasis and acid-base chemistry. The study of human physiology provides the principal groundwork for internal medicine, pharmacology, and other related health fields. The laboratory includes a variety of experiments focusing on the function and regulation of the human body. Not open to students who have taken Biology 232. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126; Concurrent registration in Biology 333. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Bridget Jacques-Fricke
BIOL 333 Human Physiology Laboratory Not open to students who have taken Biology 233. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 332; Biology 125 and 126. 2 credits; NE; Winter; Bridget Jacques-Fricke
BIOL 338 Genomics and Bioinformatics The advent of next-generation sequencing technology has revolutionized biology, enabling transformative breakthroughs in fields ranging from agriculture to conservation to medicine. In this course, students will gain experience with the computational and bioinformatics tools needed to analyze “big data,” including sequence searching and alignment, assembly, gene calling and annotation. Students will learn to ask and answer their own scientific questions using sequence data, and to critically assess the conclusions other genomics and bioinformatics studies. No prior computer programming experience is required. Associated laboratory will focus on wet lab methods for DNA/RNA extraction and preparation as well as computational analysis. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and one of these upper level courses: Biology 240, Biology 321 or Biology 350; concurrent registration in Biology 339. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Winter; Rika E Anderson
BIOL 339 Genomics and Bioinformatics Laboratory
Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 338.
2 credits; NE; Winter; Rika E Anderson
BIOL 342 Animal Developmental Biology An analysis of animal development from fertilization to the establishment of the adult body form. Lectures and discussions will examine the key processes of animal embryogenesis, as well as the molecular and cellular mechanisms that control these developmental processes. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126, and Biology 240 or 280. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Spring; Jennifer M Wolff
BIOL 343 Animal Developmental Biology Laboratory Laboratory will introduce descriptive and experimental embryological techniques using a variety of model organisms. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126, and Biology 240 or 280; Concurrent registration in Biology 342. 2 credits; NE; Spring; Jennifer M Wolff
BIOL 344 Seminar: The Molecular Basis of Plant Development A study of the molecular basis underlying the development of vascular plants. Topics including embryogenesis, meristem function, leaf and root morphogenesis, and reproduction will be investigated through the analysis of primary literature. Emphasis will be placed on the experimental basis for current concepts in plant development ranging from molecular mechanisms to evolution of developmental pathways. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126; Biology 240 or 280. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 350 Evolution Principles and history of evolutionary change in wild populations, with consideration of both microevolutionary and macroevolutionary time scales. Topics covered include causes of change in gene frequency, the nature of adaptation, constraints on evolutionary change, the evolution of genes and proteins, rates of speciation and extinction, and the major events in evolutionary history. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Fall; Mark McKone
BIOL 352 Population Ecology An investigation of the properties of populations and communities. Topics include population growth and regulation, life tables, interspecific and intraspecific competition, predation, parasitism, mutualism, the nature of communities, and biogeography. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126, and Mathematics 111 or other previous calculus course. Recommended course: Statistics 120 or equivalent exposure to statistical analysis; concurrent registration in Biology 353. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Spring; Amanda S Gallinat
BIOL 353 Population Ecology Laboratory Prerequisite: Biology 125 & 126, and Mathematics 111 or other previous calculus course. Recommended course: Statistics 120 or equivalent exposure to statistical analysis; Concurrent registration in Biology 352. 2 credits; NE; Spring; Amanda S Gallinat
BIOL 354 Human Cutaneous Biology The course will cover the cellular and molecular biology of human skin in its normal and diseased states as it relates to a clinical presentation. Clinical dermatology and pathology will also be reviewed. The course style will be patterned along the lines as if it were a medical school course. Additionally, students will be introduced to many aspects of successfully negotiating medical school including introductions and possible field trips to the Mayo Clinic Medical School and/or University of Minnesota Medical School(s). Prerequisite: Chemistry 233 and two upper division Biology courses (200 or 300-level). 3 credits; S/CR/NC; NE; Spring; Charles E Crutchfield, Stephan G Zweifel
BIOL 358 Seminar: Evolution of Sex and Sexes The origin and maintenance of sexual reproduction remains a central enigma in evolutionary biology. This seminar course will explore contemporary primary literature that addresses a variety of evolutionary questions about the nature of sex and the sexes. Why is sexual reproduction usually favored over asexual alternatives? Why are there no more than two sexes? What determines the characteristics of females and males within diverse species? How did sex chromosomes evolve and why do some species lack them? Prerequisite: Biology 240 or Biology 350. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Mark McKone
BIOL 368 Seminar: Developmental Neurobiology An examination of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying development of the nervous system. We will survey recent studies of a variety of model organisms to explore key steps in neuronal development including neural induction, patterning, specification of neuronal identity, axonal guidance, synapse formation, cell death and regeneration. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and Biology 240 or Biology 280. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 370 Seminar: Selected Topics in Virology An examination of selected animal viruses. The course will focus on the most recent developments in HIV-related research, including implications for HIV treatment and vaccines and the impact of viral infection on the immune system of the host. In addition to studying the structure and replication of particular viruses we will also discuss the current laboratory techniques used in viral research. Prerequisite: Biology 240 or 280. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 374 Seminar: Grassland Ecology Grassland ecosystems cover one third of the Earth's surface and occur on every continent except Antarctica. Grasslands provide habitat for millions of species, play a major role in global carbon and nutrient cycles, and are the primary source of agricultural land, making them an important ecosystem both ecologically and economically. This course will utilize scientific literature to explore the environmental and biological characteristics of the world's grasslands from population dynamics to ecosystem processes. Topics include competition and succession, plant-animal interactions, carbon and nutrient cycling, the role of disturbances such as fire and land use change, and grassland management and restoration. Enrollment by application. Waitlist only. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126, and one of Biology 210, 238, 248, 321 or 352 or instructor permission. 6 credits; WR2, QRE, NE; Spring; Daniel L Hernández
BIOL 379 Seminar: Behavioral Genetics Recent advances in molecular biology have allowed researchers to test specific hypotheses concerning the genetic control of behavior. This course will examine information derived from various animal model systems, including humans, using a variety of techniques such as classical genetics, genome databases, transgenics, and behavioral neurobiology. Prerequisite: Biology 240. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
BIOL 380 Biochemistry Biochemistry is an examination of the molecular basis of life processes. The course provides an in depth investigation of metabolic pathways, their interrelationships and regulation, protein structure and function with special emphasis on enzymes. Other topics include the techniques of protein analysis and how they are employed to examine problems of fundamental biochemical importance. This course meets the requirement for the Biochemistry concentration. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and Chemistry 233 and 234. 6 credits; NE; Fall; Aaron M Broege
BIOL 381 Biochemistry Laboratory Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 380; Biology 125 and 126 and Chemistry 233 and 234. 2 credits; NE; Fall; Aaron M Broege
BIOL 382 Seminar: Molecular Biology The molecular basis of the structure, replication, stable inheritance, and expression of genetic material illustrated with examples from the primary literature. Topics include: DNA replication and recombination, chromosome stability, DNA mutation and repair, regulation of gene expression, methods of gene identification, and the impact of recombinant DNA technology on human genetics. Laboratory will focus on current techniques in molecular biology including: gene cloning, genome databases, DNA finger printing, DNA sequencing, and the polymerase chain reaction. Prerequisite: Biology 240. 6 credits; NE; Fall; Stephan G Zweifel
BIOL 383 Molecular Biology Laboratory Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 382. 2 credits; NE; Fall; Stephan G Zweifel
BIOL 384 Seminar: Biology of Cancer This course explores the molecular and cellular processes that result in the transformation of normal cells into cancer cells, tumor progression, and current advances in therapeutic approaches to treating cancer. An analytical approach based on primary literature is used, and emphasis will be placed on critical evaluation of experimental design and data-interpretation. Prerequisite: Biology 240 or 380. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Aaron M Broege
BIOL 385 Seminar: Microbial Pathology Microbes are the most abundant organisms on earth, and microbial pathogens have caused human and plant disease epidemics worldwide. This course will focus upon the pathogenic strategy of a variety of well-studied microbes in order to illustrate our understanding of the molecular and cellular nature of microbial disease. We will analyze current and seminal papers in the primary literature focusing on mechanisms employed by microbes to attack hosts. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and either Biology 240 or 280. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Spring; Raka M Mitra
BIOL 386 Neurobiology An analysis of the biology of neurons and the nervous system. Topics include the molecular basis of electrical excitability in neurons, synaptic transmission and plasticity, motor control, mechanisms of sensation, and construction and modification of neural circuits. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credits; QRE, NE; Spring; Bridget Jacques-Fricke
BIOL 387 Neurobiology Laboratory Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Biology 386; Biology 125 and 126. 2 credits; NE; Spring; Bridget Jacques-Fricke
BIOL 394 Biology Research Laboratory and/or field investigation associated with an ongoing research program in the department of Biology. The project is undertaken with the direct supervision of a faculty member. Regular individual meetings, written progress reports, and public presentations should be expected. 1-6 credit; S/CR/NC; NE; Fall, Winter, Spring; Raka M Mitra, Matt Rand, Daniel L Hernández, Debby R Walser-Kuntz, Jennifer M Wolff, Stephan G Zweifel, Aaron M Broege, Fernán Jaramillo, Rika E Anderson
BIOL 395 Research Experience Seminar in Biology This seminar course is intended for students who have completed a summer research project or internship in the biological sciences. The intent of the course is to provide students with the opportunity to discuss their research experience, learn from the experiences of other members of the class, read relevant primary literature, and prepare a poster for a student research symposium. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126. 3 credits; S/CR/NC; NE, QRE; Fall; Sarah Deel
BIOL 399 Critical Reading and Analysis of Primary Literature Guided instruction in reading and interpretation of contemporary primary literature in Biology. Prerequisite: Biology 125, 126 and three upper-level Biology courses; concurrent registration in Biology 400. 3 credits; S/CR/NC; NE; Fall, Winter, Spring; Stephan G Zweifel, Mark McKone, Debby R Walser-Kuntz, Jennifer M Wolff, Daniel L Hernández, Raka M Mitra, David Hougen-Eitzman, Bridget Jacques-Fricke, Aaron M Broege
BIOL 400 Integrative Exercise Preparation and submission of the written portion of the Integrative Exercise. Continuing course (fall or winter). Oral examination, evaluation of the Integrative Exercise, and participation in visiting speakers seminars (spring). 1 credit; S/NC; Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring; Debby R Walser-Kuntz, Stephan G Zweifel, Matt Rand