This course provides a detailed understanding of the four major classes of organic biological molecules as well as inorganic biological molecules (vitamins and trace minerals). The course focuses on how these biomolecules relate to everyday life for a diversity of organisms. This course will additionally emphasize current research and topics in the media as they pertain to biomolecules.
This course explores theoretical concepts in plant ecology through review of classical and cutting-edge literature and practice with field-based experimental design and statistical methods. This course emphasizes the structure, development, and processes that drive patterns in plant communities and the ecological communities they support. Weekly field-based laboratories involve hands-on experience and opportunities to explore field methods in ecological research.
A comprehensive survey of the insects, including taxonomy, morphology, physiology, reproductive and developmental biology, and ecology. Research techniques in entomology will be learned through both field and laboratory work. Writing skills will be learned through written summaries, essay exams, laboratory reports and research proposals. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: BIOL 291 and BIOL 292 must be passed with a grade of C (2.0) or higher.
Student performs mentored research in biological science. Student and faculty mentor must meet on a regular basis. The course is intended to be taken as a series with BIOL 488W. Available for pass/fail grading only. Prerequisites: admission to the Honors Program and senior standing.
A lecture and laboratory course designed to introduce students to important ecological processes operating in coastal marine environments; this is a writing-intensive course. The course covers synthetic topics as well as the ecology of specific marine habitats. The laboratory is designed to provide students with experience in marine research and the organisms and ecological conditions common in various marine habitats visited by the class.
Online laboratory course emphasizing basic techniques in microbiology. Students who take BIOL 318 cannot earn credit for BIOL 317. Prerequisites: BIOL 293 and BIOL 294 with a grade of C or higher. Pre- or corequisite: BIOL 316.
Major research advances in immunology have resulted in substantially increasing the understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of autoimmune diseases and transplantation. The course will focus on these new advances to improve the understanding of these diseases. Topics will include a brief review of the immune system; multiple sclerosis, arthritis and other immune diseases; and the molecular and cellular basis of transplantation and chronic rejection of organ grafts. Prerequisites: course background in cell biology and immunology recommended.
The application of fundamental biological principles to the preservation of biodiversity, including the role of ecological and evolutionary theory to the preservation of biotas on a regional and global basis. Lectures will cover modern approaches to conservation biology, including conservation ethics and management issues. Laboratories will include discussion of case studies, introduction to software applicable to conservation biology, presentations by regional conservation practitioners, and visits to relevant field sites.
This course explores theoretical concepts in plant ecology through review of classical and cutting-edge literature and practice with field-based experimental design and statistical methods. This course emphasizes the structure, development, and processes that drive patterns in plant communities and the ecological communities they support. Weekly field-based laboratories involve hands-on experience and opportunities to explore field methods in ecological research. Prerequisites: BIOL 291 OR BIOL 308.
Current concepts in cellular and molecular immunology and host defense based on critical review of the primary literature.