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Courses

NOTICE: If you are planning to major in biology it is important that you consider taking Orgo I (Chem 233) in your sophomore year, especially if you plan to go off campus in the fall of your junior year.

  • 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 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- M. 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 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, LS, QRE; offered Winter 2012 -- M. Rand, S. Zweifel
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 125

    125 Dyad, Fall Term,  Genes, Evolution, and Development Dyad
    Taught by Susan Singer -  
    Laboratory required

    Bio 125 with problem solving covers the same concepts as other versions of Bio125. The format of the course differs in that it is designed to allow time in class to apply new concepts, both in small groups and individually, by working through case study type problems with faculty present. Students enter Carleton having had a wide variety of academic experiences. The Bio125 with problem solving course is designed to provide a level playing field for students coming from schools without a strong science curriculum, advanced science course offerings, or lab opportunities. 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 Bio 126 or upper level biology courses.  Fall Term. Taught by Debby Walser-Kuntz and Susan Singer.

    125 - Winter term, Genes, Evolution, and Development taught by Stephan Zweifel and Mark McKone -
    Laboratory required

    Course materials are available through Moodle.

     

  • 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 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, LS, QRE; offered Fall 2011 -- D. Walser-Kuntz, J. Wolff

  • BIOL 126: Energy Flow in Biological Systems

    Follows 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. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, LS, QRE; offered Winter 2012, Spring 2012 -- D. Hernandez, D. Hougen-Eitzman, M. Rand, J. Tymoczko
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 126

    Winter term taught by John Tymoczko and Raka Mitra -  Laboratory is required

    Spring term taught by Dan Hernandez and Matt Rand -  Laboratory is required

  • 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 resource consumption and overharvesting, land-use change, climate warming, pollution, extinction and biodiversity loss, and invasive species. Prerequisites: One introductory science lab course (Biology 125, 126, Chemistry 123, 128, Geology 110 or 120). 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- D. Hernandez

  • BIOL 212: Australia Program: Biology Field Studies and Research

    Designed to complement Biology 250, the course teaches methods and approaches to the analysis of biological problems with emphasis on an ecological viewpoint. We will be studying animals and plants in both terrestrial and marine habitats, with a particular focus on the behavioral ecology of animals. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- A. Bosacker

  • BIOL 221: Ecosystem Ecology

    This course examines major ecosystems on Earth, including terrestrial, wetland, lake, river, estuarine, and marine systems. Topics include the two major themes of energy flow and production and decomposition, microbial ecology and nutrient transformations, element cycles, ecosystems as a component of the Earth System, and global change. Current applied issues are emphasized as case studies, including clear cutting, rising atmospheric CO2, eutrophication of aquatic systems, acid rain, wetland delineation, and biodiversity effects on ecosystems. Prerequisites: Biology 126 and one of the following: Biology 125, Geology 110, Chemistry 123 or 128. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, WR, WR2, QRE, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- D. Hernandez
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 221

     Taught by Dan Hernandez. Biology 222 Ecosystems Ecology Laboratory is required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Ecology/Evolution group.   Prerequisites: BIO 125, GEO 110, CHEM 123 or CHEM 128

  • BIOL 222: Ecosystem Ecology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- D. Hernandez

  • BIOL 230: Introduction to Pharmacology

    This course provides an introduction to how drugs work in the body. We will discuss overarching ideas, such as the clinical uses of drugs, as well as specific pharmacological principles, including pharmaceutical administration, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Since most drugs provide adverse as well as therapeutic effects, aspects of toxicology and drug design will be described. Students interested in clinical medicine, basic research, or pharmaceutical design will get a basic foundation to the action of therapeutic drugs, which will enhance subsequent advanced study. Prerequisites: Biology 125, 126, Chemistry 233 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 230

    Taught by Nidanie Henderson.  Fulfills the Cell and Molecular group.

  • BIOL 232: 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- F. Jaramillo
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 232

    Taught by Fernan Jaramillo

    Biology 233 Human Physiology Laboratory required to count toward the major.   Fulfills the Organismic Biology group.

  • BIOL 233: Human Physiology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- F. Jaramillo

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, LS, QRE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 234

    Taught by Debby Walser-Kuntz.  Counts toward the Organismic Biology group.

  • BIOL 236: Plant Biology

    How do plants work? This course is framed in the context of advances in evolution and genomics, which offer insight into physiological, developmental, morphological, and anatomical adaptations to diverse environments. Emphasis is placed on experimental approaches to the study of plants. The biology behind current issues related to food and agriculture, including genetically modified organisms, will be investigated. Prerequisites: Biology 125 or 126 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- S. Singer

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. Concurrent registration in Biology 239 required. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 238

    Taught by David Hougen-Eitzman. .

    Biology 239 Entomology Laboratory is required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Organismic group.

  • 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. 2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; not offered 2011-2012

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126 or permission of the instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012, Spring 2012 -- J. Wolff, S. Zweifel
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 240

    Winter Term taught by Susan Singer -  Biology 241 Genetics Laboratory required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Molecular and Cellular group.

    Spring Term taught by Stephan Zweifel - Biology 241 Genetics Laboratory required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Molecular and Cellular group.

  • BIOL 241: Genetics Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Winter 2012, Spring 2012 -- J. Wolff, S. Zweifel

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 242

    Taught by Matt Rand . Vertebrate Morphology Lab 243 required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Organismic Biology group.

  • BIOL 243: Vertebrate Morphology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; not offered 2011-2012

  • 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.Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 248

     

  • BIOL 250: Australia Program: Marine Biology

    We will study the biology of marine ecosystems with an emphasis on population and community ecology and the life histories and evolution of marine organisms. We will explore the diverse marine ecosystems of Australia through extensive field work in habitats including temperate oceans, mangrove forests, and tropical coral reefs. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- A. 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- M. Rand
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 252

    Taught by Matt Rand.  Biology 253 - Environmental Animal Physiology Fulfills the Organismic group.

  • BIOL 253: Environmental Animal Physiology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; offered Fall 2011 -- M. Rand

  • BIOL 255: Australia Program: Culture and Environment in Australia

    We will consider both the natural history of the Australian landscape and the cultural history of the people who have settled there. We will use readings, writing exercises, meetings with visiting lecturers, and visits to cultural centers. 2 credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- A. Bosacker

  • BIOL 260: Visiting Speakers Seminar

    Meets up to once per week for all three terms. Research presentations by distinguished visiting scholars in various areas of biology. Credit awarded during spring term after attendance of two-thirds of all the presentations. Not open to senior majors. 1 credit for all three terms credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012 -- Staff

  • BIOL 278: Introduction to Biochemistry

    This course presents an overview of the biochemical aspects of energy and information metabolism. This course is intended to provide students with the fundamental biochemical knowledge to support their further studies in biology. Questions such as the following are addressed: What defines a good fuel? How are metabolic pathways constructed and made to occur at rates sufficient to support life? Interwoven throughout the discussion of energy will be consideration of information processing. How do molecules recognize one another? How is the complex metabolic web of the cell regulated? How does this regulation change in response to signals such as hormones or environmental conditions, and to conditions such as exercise, starvation, alcohol consumption or disease states? This course does not fulfill requirements for the Biochemistry concentration. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126, Chemistry 123 or 128. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- J. Tymoczko
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 278

    Taught by John Tymoczko -   Laboratory required to count toward the biology major. Fulfills the Molecular and Cellular group

  • 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 energy capture, storage, and utilization; cellular reproduction; organelles, membranes, and other cellular components; and cell-cell communication. Concurrent registration in Biology 281 required. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- S. Guerrier
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 280

    Taught by Raka Mitra.   Biology 281 Cell Biology Laboratory is required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Molecular and Cellular group.

  • 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. 2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- S. Guerrier

  • BIOL 290: Australia Program: Directed Reading

    4 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- A. Bosacker

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- D. Walser-Kuntz
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 310

    Taught by Debby Walser-Kuntz.  Biology 311 required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Molecular and Cell group

  • BIOL 311: Immunology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; not offered 2011-2012

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. Biology 240 strongly recommended. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- J. Wolff
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 342

    Taught by Jennifer Wolff - Biology 343 Animal Developmental Laboratory is required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Organismic group.

  • BIOL 343: Animal Developmental Biology Laboratory

    Laboratory will introduce descriptive and experimental embryological techniques using a variety of model organisms. 2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- J. Wolff

  • BIOL 344: Plant Development

    A study of the development of vascular plants. Topics including embryogenesis, meristem function, leaf 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 344

    Taught by Susan Singer.  Fulfills the Organismic group and the Jr/Sr seminar requirement

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- M. McKone
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 350

    Taught by Mark McKone. Fulfills the Ecology/Evolution group requirement

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126; Mathematics 111 or other previous calculus course. Recommended course: Mathematics 215 or equivalent exposure to statistical analysis. Concurrent registration in Biology 353 required. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- A. Bosacker
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 352

    Taught by Mark McKone -  Biology 353 Population Ecology Laboratory required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Ecology and Evolutionary group.

  • BIOL 353: Population Ecology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- A. Bosacker

  • 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). Prerequisites: Chemistry 233 and two upper division Biology courses (200 or 300-level) and instructor's permission required. 3 credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- C. Crutchfield
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 354

    Taught by Charles Crutchfield. Offered last five weeks of spring term. By application only. Does not count toward the biology major.

  • BIOL 360: Seminar in Biophysics

    Biophysical methods are important tools for understanding biology. The biophysical characterization of proteins is accelerating drug discovery in diseases such as Alzheimer’s, cystic fibrosis, mad cow, inherited emphysema, and many cancers. Because biophysics relies on the principles of physics to look at biological problems at the molecular level, students majoring in biology, physics, and chemistry often feel unprepared to explore this interdisciplinary subject. This seminar will provide upper-level students, in each of these fields, the background to critically analyze the biophysical results that permeate the literature and the opportunity to apply knowledge in their major, across disciplines. Prerequisites: Introductory Biology series, or Introductory Chemistry series, or Introductory Physics series, or permission from instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 360

    Taught by Nidanie Henderson.  Fulfills the Cell and Molecular group and Jr/Sr seminar requirement.

  • BIOL 361: Tropical Rainforest Ecology

    The tropical rainforests contain most of the earth's species, but have been less studied than many other biological communities. Recently there has been a dramatic increase in ecological investigations in the tropics, and the goal of this course is to survey the most contemporary and influential published work in rainforest ecology. Topics to be emphasized include the latitudinal gradient in species diversity, evolutionary ecology, and interactions between species. This course is part of the off-campus winter break program, involving two linked courses in fall and winter; this class is the first class in the sequence. Prerequisites: Biology 352 or other ecology course work and permission of the instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 361

    (an off-campus winter break program) Biology 362* - Taught by Mark McKone

    Fulfills the Ecology and Evolutionary group and the Jr/Sr seminar requirement

  • BIOL 362: Field Investigation in Tropical Rainforest Ecology

    This course is the second part of a two-term sequence beginning with Biology 361. This course begins with a two-week visit in December to the La Selva Biological Station near Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. The station is located in lowland rainforest and has been the site of many important ecological experiments. While at La Selva, the class will perform extensive field experiments planned during Biology 361. In regular meetings during the term, data will be analyzed and presented in oral and written reports. Prerequisites: Biology 361 and permission of the instructor. Does not count toward the Biology major. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 362

    Off-campus program taught by Mark McKone. Biology 361 required.

  • BIOL 365: Topics in Neuroscience

    We will focus on recent advances in neuroscience. All areas of neuroscience (cellular/molecular, developmental, systems, cognitive, and disease) will be considered. Classical or foundational papers will be used to provide background. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- F. Jaramillo

  • BIOL 367: The Molecular Basis of Human Disease

    The course will examine the biochemical basis of human disease. Although the focus will be on common diseases, such as metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, rare but instructive conditions will also be examined. An analytical approach, based on primary literature, will be used and the emphases will be placed on critical evaluation of experimental design and data interpretation. Prerequisites: Biology 232 or 240 or 242 or 278 or 380 or Chemistry 320 or consent of instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- J. Tymoczko
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 367

    Taught by John Tymoczko.  Fulfills the Jr/Sr seminar requirement.

  • BIOL 368: 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. The laboratory will focus on current techniques used to study neuronal development in invertebrate and vertebrate model systems. Prerequisites: Biology 240 or Biology 280. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 368

    Taught by Jennifer Wolff 

    Fulfills the Jr/Sr seminar requirement.

  • BIOL 369: Developmental Neurobiology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 369

    Taught by Jennifer Wolff

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- D. Walser-Kuntz
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 370

    Taught by Debby Walser-Kuntz 

    Fulfills the Jr/Sr seminar requirement.

  • BIOL 372: Seminar: Selected Topics in Exercise Biochemistry

    An examination of how basic biochemical and physiological systems respond to the demands of exercise, and how they are modified in response to training. Prerequisite: Biology 278 or 380. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- J. Tymoczko
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 372

    Taught by John Tymoczko and Leon Lunder.  Fulfills the Jr/Sr. seminar requirement

  • 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126, and one upper-level course in ecology (Biology 221 or 352) or plant biology (Biology 236) or permission of the instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, WR, WR2, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- D. Hernandez
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 374

    Taught by Dan Hernandez.  Fulfills the Jr/Sr seminar requirement.

  • BIOL 376: Seminar: Animal Behavior in the Galápagos

    We will explore topics in animal behavior that specifically relate to some of the unusual as well as the usual behavioral patterns exhibited by animals in the Galápagos Islands. One of the goals for this course is to attempt to design procedures for behavioral observation under less than optimal conditions. Wildlife conservation issues will not allow us to manipulate animals and will place serious time constraints on our observations. The challenge will be to design studies using comparative observations while minimizing the disturbance to the wildlife. Prerequisite: Biology 125 and 126 and permission of the instructor. This course is part of the off-campus study winter break Galápagos program. Involving two linked classes in fall and winter terms; and this class is the first class in the sequence. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 376

    Taught by Matt Rand

    Off campus during winter break

  • BIOL 377: Animal Behavior in the Galápagos

    This course is the second part of a two-term sequence beginning with Biology 376. The Galápagos Islands are one of the few places on earth where large animals (especially birds) do not possess an innate fear of humans. This unusual behavioral pattern coupled with the amazing abundance of the island fauna, creates an extremely unique opportunity to observe, characterize, and measure animal behavior under natural conditions. This two-week course includes a visit to the Galápagos Islands and a short trip to the Ecuadorian Rainforest in December. Regular meetings during the term will be used to present oral and written reports based on our observations in the field. Prerequisites: Biology 376, permission of the instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, NE; not offered 2011-2012

  • 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 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 379

    Taught by Matt Rand and Stephan Zweifel.   Fulfills the Jr/Sr seminar requirement

  • BIOL 380: Biochemistry

    Biochemistry is an examination of the molecular basis of life processes. The course provides an indepth 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126 and Chemistry 233 and 234. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- J. Tymoczko
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 380

    Taught by John Tymoczko -   Biology 381 Biochemistry Laboratory is required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Molecular and Cell group.
    Laboratory taught by Nidanie Henderson

  • BIOL 381: Biochemistry Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- Staff

  • BIOL 382: 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. Prerequisites: Biology 240, Chemistry 233. Concurrent registration in Biology 383 required. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- S. Zweifel
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 382

    Taught by Stephan Zweifel -  Biology 383 Molecular Biology Laboratory required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Molecular and Cellular group and Jr/Sr seminar requirement

  • BIOL 383: Molecular Biology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- S. Zweifel

  • BIOL 384: Oncogenes and the Molecular Biology of Cancer

    An analysis of the biochemical, molecular and cellular processes that result in the transformation of normal cells into cancer cells. An analytical approach, based on the primary literature used and emphasis will be placed on critical evaluation of experimental design and data-interpretation. Prerequisites: Biology 240 or 380. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; not offered 2011-2012
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 384

    Taught by John Tymoczko. Fulfills the Molecular and Cell Biology group and Jr/Sr seminar requirement

  • BIOL 385: 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126 and either Biology 280 or 240. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE; not offered 2011-2012

  • BIOL 386: Neurobiology

    An analysis of the biology of neurons and the nervous system. Topics include the molecular basis of electrical excitability in neurons; neurons and muscle, transfer of information across synapses, mechanisms of sensation, learning, memory, and behavior. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Spring 2012 -- F. Jaramillo
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 386

    Taught by Fernan Jaramillo -   Biology 387 Neurobiology Laboratory is required to count toward the major. Fulfills the Organismic group.

  • BIOL 387: Neurobiology Laboratory

    2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; offered Spring 2012 -- F. Jaramillo

  • BIOL 388: Molecular Mechanisms of Drug Action

    This seminar will analyze the mechanism of drug action in prominent diseases. Emphasis will be placed on the molecular changes that promote the selected diseases and how particular drug strategies work to affect enzyme activity, receptor binding, or the synthesis and metabolism of molecules. We will discuss recent advances in the treatment of diseases in which the standards-of-care or promising drug strategies include both chemical and biotherapeutic strategies. The process of drug discovery including the screening of combinatorial libraries and rational drug design will be described. Prerequisites: Biology 280 and Chemistry 233, or Biology 380 or Chemistry 320. 6 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; not offered 2011-2012

  • BIOL 389: Evo-Devo: Evolutionary Developmental Biology

    This seminar course is focused on introductory concepts in evolutionary developmental biology. We will use critical evaluation of primary literature to explore how the genetic mechanisms that control development have evolved the diversity of life on earth. Prerequisites: One of the following: Biology 240, 242, 280, 342, 350, or permission of instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, QRE, NE; offered Winter 2012 -- A. Kalis

  • 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; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012 -- Staff

  • BIOL 395: Research Experience Seminar in Biology

    This seminar course in 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 3 credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, QRE, NE; offered Fall 2011 -- S. Deel
    Extended departmental description for BIOL 395

    Taught by Sarah Deel.   Does not count toward the Biology Major

  • BIOL 399: Critical Reading and Analysis of Primary Literature

    Guided instruction in reading and interpretation of contemporary primary literature in Biology. Prerequisites: Completion of Biology 125, 126 and three upper-level biology courses 3 credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Fall 2011, Winter 2012 -- Staff

  • 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). 3 credit; S/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, NE; offered Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012 -- Staff