• 2012-2013 Courses:
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Fall 2012

• 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, Science with Lab, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013 -- M. McKone, S. Singer, 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, Science with Lab, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter; offered Fall 2012 -- D. Walser-Kuntz, J. Wolff

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- J. Becknell

• BIOL 222: Ecosystem Ecology Laboratory

  2 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- J. Becknell

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- D. Hougen-Eitzman

  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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- D. Hougen-Eitzman

• 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- Staff

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- R. Mitra

  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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- R. Mitra

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- M. McKone

  Extended departmental description for BIOL 350

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

• BIOL 358: 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 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? Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- M. McKone

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- A. Moore

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- S. Guerrier

• 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 and Chemistry 233. Concurrent registration in Biology 383 required. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- S. Zweifel

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- Staff

• 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. Prerequisites: Biology 125 and 126. 3 credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012 -- 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. Concurrent registration in Biology 400 required. 3 credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- Staff

Winter 2013

• 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, Science with Lab, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013 -- M. McKone, S. Singer, 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 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, Science with Lab, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter; offered Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- S. Guerrier, D. Hernandez, R. Mitra, 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- J. Becknell

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- A. Bosacker

• BIOL 230: Introduction to Pharmacology

  This course will focus on the principles that underlie the effects of drugs on the human body. This course will begin with a discussion of receptor theory. We will then explore concepts of signal transduction with a focus on signaling pathways including, but not limited to, signaling by G-protein coupled receptors and receptor tyrosine kinases. Finally, we will discuss classes of drugs and their mechanisms of action in the treatment of various diseases and disorders. Prerequisites: Biology 125, 126, and Chemistry 233 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- S. Guerrier

  Extended departmental description for BIOL 230

  Taught by Sabrice Guerrier.  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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- A. Moore

  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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- A. Moore

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- J Petricka, J. Wolff

  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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- J. Petricka, J. Wolff

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- A. Bosacker

• 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, meetings with visiting lecturers, and visits to cultural centers, and students will synthesize what they have learned in reflective essays. 2 credit; S/CR/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- Staff

• BIOL 290: Australia Program: Directed Reading

  Participants are asked to read selected works that showcase the natural and cultural history of Australia. Understanding of these readings will be evaluated through discussion and written work. 4 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- A. Bosacker

• BIOL 302: Methods of Teaching Science

  This course will explore teaching methods for the life and physical sciences in grades 5-12. Curricular materials and active learning labs will be discussed and developed. In addition, time outside of class will be spent observing and teaching in local science classrooms. Will not count toward a biology major. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor 6 credit; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- D. Walser-Kuntz

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- 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 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- J. Wolff

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013 -- J. Tymoczko

  Extended departmental description for BIOL 367

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

• 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- Staff

Spring 2013

• 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, Science with Lab, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter; offered Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- S. Guerrier, D. Hernandez, R. Mitra, 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 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, Science with Lab, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter; offered Spring 2013 -- R. Bergerson

  Extended departmental description for BIOL 234

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

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- J Petricka, J. Wolff

  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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- J. Petricka, J. Wolff

• 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- 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 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- S. Singer

  Extended departmental description for BIOL 344

  Taught by Susan Singer.  Fulfills the Organismic group and the Jr/Sr seminar 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- M. McKone

  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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- M. McKone

• 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- 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 371: Seminar on Human Dominated Ecosystems

  Human dominated ecosystems occur wherever human activities become the prevailing force in ecological patterns and processes, including everything from a clear-cut tropical forest to your backyard. It also includes remote areas changing because of human alteration of nutrient cycles and the climate. As human population and impacts grow, so does the need to understand how ecosystems respond. This course will use recent scientific literature to explore this new field of ecology, the study of human dominated ecosystems. Topics include the ecology of cities, decimated ecosystems, ecology of the post-war landscape, preservation and restoration under a changing climate, and designed ecosystem. Prerequisites: Biology 125, 126 and one upper-level ecology course (Biology 210, 221, 236, or 352) or permission from the instructor. 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- J. Becknell

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- L. Lunder, J. Tymoczko

  Extended departmental description for BIOL 372

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

• BIOL 375: Natural History of Minnesota

  This course will explore the ecology of the ecosystems and organisms of Minnesota-- including lakes and rivers, grasslands, and deciduous and boreal forest--through the reading and analysis of the primary literature and independent field research projects. Students will gain skills in species identification, experimental design, scientific writing and presentation. In addition to scheduled class time, this course includes two weekend field trips. Prerequisites: Biology 125, Biology 126, and one upper-level course in ecology (Biology 221, 236, 238, or 352) 6 credit; Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- D. Hernandez

• 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, Quantitative Reasoning Encounter, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Spring 2013 -- A. Moore

  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 2013 -- A. Moore

• 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- 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, Does not fulfill a curricular exploration requirement; offered Fall 2012, Winter 2013, Spring 2013 -- Staff