Biology Courses
101. General Biology l. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Discover ecology, evolution, biological diversity, and conservation biology using an investigative and problem-based approach. Students design, conduct, and present their own in-depth independent research project based on structured, skill-based lab exercises and scientific literature. One three-hour lab, a one-hour peer study session and three lectures each week. Acceptance into upper-level biology courses (200+ level) requires a grade of 2.0 or higher in 101. Offered every year in the fall semester. Required for biology, biochemistry, biology-physics, biomedical sciences, conservation biology, environmental studies-biology, and neuroscience majors.
102. General Biology ll. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Investigate cell biology, genetics, and physiology using a problem-based approach. Students design, conduct, and present their own in-depth independent research project using structured, skill-based lab exercises and scientific literature. One three-hour lab, a one-hour peer study session and three lectures each week. Offered in the spring semester. Acceptance into other biology courses requires a grade of 2.0 or higher in102. Offered each spring semester. Required for biology, biochemistry, biology-physics, biomedical sciences, conservation biology, environmental studies-biology, and neuroscience majors.
121. The Natural World. (with lab) (1.25 units)
A biology-ecology course with laboratory for non-majors focusing on ecological processes and challenges facing individual organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems. Students visit a variety of local habitats to study ecosystems and to learn the natural history and identification of Northeast trees and animals. Students will observe birds, follow animal tracks, take nature photos, conduct a foraging experiment and discuss climate change. This lecture and outdoor lab course does not count toward the biology major but does count toward the outdoor studies minor. Fulfills the natural science with lab and environmental literacy distribution. Offered each spring semester. Also cross-listed with Outdoor Studies.
209. Vertebrate Natural History. (with lab) (1.25 units)
A field-oriented course that explores the biology of vertebrate animals, with emphasis on understanding the diversity, life history, evolution and unique adaptations of vertebrates. The laboratory focus is on developing scientifically sound skills in observation and on learning to identify local vertebrates. Some extra class meetings are required for regional field excursions and for observing and identifying local vertebrates at the times of day when they are active. Offered alternate fall semesters. Prerequisite: BIOL 101,102. Also offered as ENVS 209 and through Outdoor Studies. Also counts as a biodiversity course for the conservation biology major.
215. Arthropods and Other Invertebrates. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Many people want to explore the galaxy, seeking alien life but Earth already hosts a bountiful supply and it’s all around us! Lobster, shrimp, insects, spiders and other Arthropods are everywhere and are incredibly important in our lives (food, agriculture, fisheries, biomedical research, etc.). So are other invertebrate animals like squid, octopus, sponges, corals, jellyfish, clams, worms, snails, and seastars and many have weird, fascinating anatomies, behaviors, and ecological roles. Want to discover them and understand the bulk of all animal life on the planet? This course is ideal for sophomores and juniors who are looking to broaden their understanding of biodiversity, environmental science, and biomedical applications. Lectures and one laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 101, 102 or equivalent. This
elective course provides credit for the Biology, Conservation Biology, and Biology-Environmental Studies majors.
218. Ornithology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This course provides students with a basic understanding of avian biology. We learn about the diversity of birds through an exploration of avian evolution, physiology, taxonomy and ecology. Students are expected to become proficient in field identification of Northern New York birds by sight and sound, as well as their natural history. Lectures and lab. Labs are generally outdoors, and some Tuesday morning classes after Spring Break will meet early (approximately 6:30 a.m.) for field trips. One mandatory full-day weekend field trip at the end of the semester. Recommended course: BIOL 221. Also counts as a biodiversity course for the conservation biology major.
221. General Ecology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
A study of the factors influencing the abundance and distribution of species, including interactions between individuals and their physical/chemical environment, population dynamics and the structure/function of communities and ecosystems and their responses to disturbance. Labs are field-oriented and emphasize characteristics of local communities or specific techniques such as estimation of population density. Lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 101, 102 or equivalent, or permission of instructor. Offered each semester. Also offered as ENVS 221 and through Outdoor Studies.
224. Biology of Plants. (with lab) (1.25 units)
A study of the evolution, morphology, physiology and life histories of mosses, ferns, conifers, flowering plants and their relatives, in an ecological context. Indoor labs survey the morphology and reproductive characters of the major groups of plants as well as the structure and function of plant organs and tissues. Outdoor labs emphasize ecology, identification and economic uses of local plants. Lectures and one laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 101,102 or equivalent or permission of instructor. Also counts as a biodiversity course for the conservation biology major.
227. Mammalogy. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Mammalogy is, as it sounds, the study of mammals. In this class, we will study mammalian behavior, ecology, evolutionary history, taxonomy, distribution, morphology, and other topics. Our focus will be mammals of North America, though we will also cover some mammals from other regions of the world. By the end of the semester, you will be familiar with and will have learned to identify most of the mammals that occur in the northeastern United States. You will have live-trapped and handled a variety of wild mammals and will have learned a suite of skills associated with studying mammals in the field. In addition, you will explore modern methods for determining the evolutionary relationships among mammals. Because some mammals are marine (whales, dolphins, seals, etc.) we will also make a trip to Cape Cod early in the semester to study marine Mammalogy. By the end of this course, you will have had a solid introduction to the taxonomic group we know as Class Mammalia. Pre-requisites: Biology 101 and Biology 102. You must also register for the lab section. Mammalogy counts as an organismal diversity course (animal) for the Conservation Biology major.
230. Food from the Sea. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Throughout history human populations and cultures have been shaped by their use of finfish and shellfish from the marine biome. What species have been exploited, in what ways, how has this changed over time, and can these marine resources be used in a sustainable way to feed the growing global population of humans? This course will explore these larger questions as it uncovers (a) the biodiversity and ecology of marine fishery organisms (whales, fish, squid, clams, etc.), (b) the impacts of human predation on these organisms, (c) efforts to aquaculture and conserve certain seafood species, and (d) human health issues related to seafoods. This course will be based largely on discussions of class readings (there is a moderate to high reading load) and projects that explore sustainable uses of marine and even freshwater species. This class is ideal for sophomore and junior Biology, Biology–Environmental Studies, and Conservation Biology majors. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Offered each spring. Also counts as a conservation science course for the conservation biology major.
231. Microbiology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
An introduction to the structure, physiology, ecology, genetics and evolution of microscopic organisms including bacteria, archaea and protists. Students examine the metabolic activities and adaptations of these organisms and their interactions with the environment. The ecological, medical and industrial importance of microbes and microbial communities is explored. The laboratory involves microbial cultivation, isolation and identification as well as analysis of microbial presence and activity. Laboratory skills acquired in this course are applicable to a variety of fields including genetics, environmental studies, health and industry. Lectures and one laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 101,102; pre- or co-requisite: CHEM 103 or permission of instructor. Also counts as a biodiversity course for the conservation biology major.
232. Laboratory Animals: Ethics, Care and Techniques. (with lab) (.5 unit)
An introduction to the techniques, use and care of laboratory animals. Students gain knowledge and hands-on experience in anesthetics/analgesics, surgical techniques, and proper animal handling and husbandry. The ethical use of animals in research, appropriate and humane care, and the functions of regulatory agencies are covered. Concurrently, students explore the relationships between humans and animals used in teaching and research. Prerequisite: PYSCH 100 or 101 or BIOL 101 or permission of instructor. This course cannot be used to fulfill biology major requirements.
233. Neuroscience of Fear.
Brain structures that control the fear response are shared across humans, mammals, birds, and reptiles. These structures have been evolutionally preserved because fear helps to protect us from danger, injury, and death. Though the dangers of modern society differ substantially from those of our ancient past, aspects of our primal fear instincts remain. Are such emotions merely intrusions from another time or do they still have a function in our consciousness today? With a focus on the fear response, we will examine the evolutionary foundations of emotions, how they are displayed, develop over time, and tie into decision-making in our everyday lives. We will examine this issue from a multidisciplinary
perspective, synthesizing recent work from the fields of biology, psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy. Offered abroad in the summer term. Prerequisites: BIOL 102 or PSYC 101. Also offered as NRSCI 233, PSYC 233.
242. Biodiversity Conservation and Management in East Africa
This course evaluates the efforts and approaches being undertaken by governments, conservation organizations and communities in East Africa to improve the environment while trying to uplift the living standards of the people. It explores the social, cultural, economic and political context of the relationship between humans and the natural resources, to appreciate present and future biodiversity management particularly in East Africa. The course examines influences of the policy framework, local community participation, international influences, economic conditions natural resource potentials and constraints, and constraints and regulation on human-wildlife interactions. Biodiversity conservation in Kenya and East Africa is examined in the context of other competing land use alternatives in which its potential contribution to elevating local livelihoods is considered. Fulfills EL requirement. Offered through the Kenya Abroad Program.
245. Genetics.
An introduction to the principles of the transmission of inherited characteristics and the underlying molecular mechanisms of the regulation of expression of genetic information. Genetic engineering and an introduction to population genetics are included. Three lectures per week. Prerequisite: BIOL 101, 102 or equivalent; pre- or co-requisite: CHEM 101 or 103 or permission of instructor. Also required for the biochemistry major, fulfills the genetics/evolution requirement of the conservation biology major, and counts as an elective for the neuroscience (cellular track) majors. Offered each semester.
250. Introduction to Cell Biology.
An understanding of the concepts and processes of cell biology is fundamental to all other disciplines in biology. This course introduces the anatomy of the cell and physiology of its components, particularly in relation to the physiology of the entire organism. Cellular processes of information storage/transfer (i.e., replication, transcription and translation of genetic material), metabolism, intracellular protein trafficking, and signaling transduction are also explored. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Recommended: CHEM 103,104. Also required for biochemistry major. Offered each semester.
252. Research Methods in Cell Biology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
In this course, students will obtain hands-on experience using basic and advanced techniques in cell biology, such as solution preparation, cell culture, transfection, protein extraction and concentration measurement, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), western blotting, basic staining and imaging of cells and confocal microscopy. The techniques studied in this course are the same techniques that are used in laboratories across the country and around the world. In addition to gaining practical experience in the laboratory, students will learn about the theories behind each technique and study how biologists apply these techniques to answer fundamental biological questions in cell biology. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Counts as a research methods course for the biology major and fulfills the methods course requirement for the neuroscience major (cellular track).
258. Ethnobotany. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Ethnobotany is an interdisciplinary field drawing on concepts from both natural and social sciences to investigate human-plant interactions. This course illustrates the importance of plants in our everyday lives and the influence of human activities on plant populations. Independent projects center around surveys and experiments on socioeconomically important plants. Field trips and labs explore global and local traditional medicinal plant species and other plants of socioeconomic importance. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory per week. Cross listed with Anthropology, Asian Studies, Environmental Studies, Global Studies, and Public Health. Also counts as a biodiversity course for the
conservation biology major. Prerequisite: BIOL 101
260. Once and Future Oceans
Our vast global oceans are changing, modifying most of Earth’s biodiversity, its ecological functions, its food supply, and its carrying capacity for humans. What habitat alterations are happening in this vast biome and how are creatures like tuna, seaweeds, corals, octopus, sea otters, oysters, and jellyfish adjusting to their new normal in this mysterious, largely unseen part of our world? Can humans safeguard this largely blue planet? This course is ideal for sophomores and juniors who are looking to broaden their understanding of biodiversity, environmental science, and sustainability. Prerequisites: BIOL 101, 102 or equivalent. This elective course provides credit for the Biology, Conservation Biology, and Environmental Studies-Biology majors.
288. Introduction to Neuroscience. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This course provides basic understanding of the architecture and processing of information in the brain. Particular emphasis is placed on the cellular properties of cells in the nervous system and how these biophysical properties affect information processing. To this end, students learn neuroanatomy and use computer models to gain insight into the computational power of the brain. Other topics include development of the nervous system, neurophysiology of sensation and homeostatic control mechanisms. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Offered each fall semester. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Recommended: BIOL 245, or 250. Also offered as NRSCI 288. Required for the neuroscience major.
303. Biostatistics: Dealing w/ Data
A fundamental aspect of practicing biology-related science (be it through the lens of ecology, medicine, public health, etc.) is dealing with data. Data analysis requires much more than picking the correct statistical test. Data sets are being generated at an exponential rate and the potential for combining public data sets to ask new scientific questions is immense. In this course, we will learn to use the free, open-source software program R (the industry standard) for cleaning, organizing, and analyzing biological data sets (including data visualization). We will also learn to create reproducible data analysis workflows. In the later part of the semester, students will analyze a data set from an area of biology in which they have particular interest. This course counts as an elective for a Data Science major or Statistics minor. Prerequisites are Biology 101, Biology 102 and at least one Biology class at the 200 or above level. Students from outside of Biology who lack the prerequisites may petition the instructor for admission to the course.
306. Health & Wellness Coaching with CBL
Health & Wellness Coaching students will increase their understanding of the role of different members of the health care team, gain perspective on the nature of chronic disease, and learn skills including motivational interviewing. Multiple physicians and health care administrators will speak to students about a variety of topics including the role of the health coach, population health, empathy, end of life care, cardiovascular screening, diabetes mellitus, motivating patients, and the changing face of medicine. This will prepare students to be Health Coaches Interns for Canton Potsdam Hospital and work with a chronically ill community member.
Students will also learn more about topics that affect their own wellness and that of their peers including sleep, nutrition, building positive relationships, making health decisions, managing homesickness, setting health goals, physical activity, caffeine, and stress management. Students will also learn about academic support, career exploration, and wellness resources on campus. This will prepare students to excel as Wellness Interns or THRIVE mentors on campus.
This course includes an experiential learning component known as Community Based Learning (CBL). The CBL component will require students to participate in a community placement outside of class time on a weekly basis throughout the semester. On average students can expect to spend up to/at least two hours per week in the community. This will allow students the opportunity to practice the communication skills being discussed in class.
This course cannot be used to fulfill biology major requirements. This course cannot be taken pass/fail. This course will be regularly offered in the spring.
307. Health Coaches Internship with CBL
During this internship, students work with a chronically ill individual. After the initial patient visit and introduction, students spend 1-2 hours a week alone with their client, establishing rapport and setting and achieving health goals. Students will meet regularly with their Canton Potsdam Hospital internship supervisor. The majority of these meetings will be clinical conferences, where students present their clients’ health challenges, unique circumstances, and current goals.
Students will reflect on and document their internship experience for pass/fail course credit. Successful completion fulfills the experiential learning component requirement for the Public Health major/minor and the Biomedical Sciences major.
This course cannot be used to fulfill biology major requirements. This internship will be regularly offered in the fall.
309. Biochemistry.
The course is organized around several themes: the relationship of structure to function in biomolecules, production of energy, regulation and control of metabolism. Topics covered to illustrate these themes include enzyme action and regulation, hemoglobin and the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide, metabolism of carbohydrates for energy production, structure and function of biological membranes, and structure and function of molecules involved in transmission and expression of genetic information. Prerequisite: CHEM 222 or permission of instructor. Required for the BIOCH major and also counts as an elective for the neuroscience (cellular) major. Also offered as BIOCH 309 and CHEMH 309. Offered each semester.
315. Human Nutrition.
Food is a basic requirement of human life, impacting biological events at the level of the organism down to the level of the cell. In this course, we will focus on the major energy yielding macromolecules of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins and how their intake must be balanced to maintain healthy body weight. Other micronutrients including vitamins and minerals will be studied from the perspective of their role in specific body systems. Throughout the course, we will apply this science-based knowledge to assessments of popular diet plans, supplement use, and health claims made about so-called “super foods.” Students will also perform both self-analysis of 3-day food records and analysis of patient laboratory results with 24 hour food recall information. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Offered every spring semester.
319. Plant Systematics.
Classical and modern approaches to the taxonomy of higher plants with emphasis on evolutionary trends, principles of classification and geographic distribution. The distinguishing field characteristics of the principle families of ferns, conifers and flowering plants are studied. Also included is the identification of local flora. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Offered in alternate years. Also counts as a biodiversity course for the conservation biology major.
320. Forest Ecology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Of the habitable land on earth, approximately 38% is forested. Forests are important for human welfare because they are responsible for provisioning food, cleaning air, recycling nutrients, storing carbon, and other services. In addition, forests provide homes for millions of species. In this course we will examine forest ecosystems to learn what makes them "tick." We will study the major forest types of the world and compositional, structural and functional properties of forest ecosystems. We will make use of extended lab periods to conduct inventories of a number of forests in our region to compare with one another and to examine how they have changed over time. Students will also learn to use the R statistical programming language to analyze forest data sets. This is a 300-level course that fulfills the Advanced Ecology requirement for the Conservation Biology major and is open to any student who has taken Biology 221 (Ecology).
321. Foundations of Medicine.
This course is designed to help students as they prepare to take the MCAT and apply to medical school. One major goal of the course is to facilitate MCAT preparation. Outside of class students will work on their MCAT content review including concept checks and practice questions and take two full-length practice exams. During Tuesday classes students will learn and practice test-taking strategies with iClicker questions. Another major goal of the course is to thoughtfully prepare the personal statement and other documents necessary to successfully apply to medical school. Thursday classes will be spent reflecting on personal characteristics and experiences and how to best arrange these on the AMCAS or AACOMAS application to tell the story of why you'll make a great physician. In addition, one class period will be a panel discussion where community physicians discuss and answer questions about their paths into medicine, and current practices. A third goal of the course is to prepare for the different ways medical schools evaluate interpersonal and intrapersonal skills through AAMC PREview (Professional Readiness Exam formerly SJT), CASPer and interviews. Students will work on a research project that addresses a potential CASPer prompt and present it. We will complete and discuss practice AAMC PREview questions in Thursday classes, and students will have multiple opportunities to practice interview questions and receive feedback. The last and final goal is to emphasize that you cannot be
helpful to someone without first understanding their perspective and wishes.
This course cannot be used to fulfill biology major requirements. This course cannot be taken pass/fail. This course will be regularly offered in the fall.
323. Mist Nets and Museum Skins. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This course will focus on teaching students two techniques central to the field of ornithology: mist netting and banding of wild birds, and museum study skin preparation of birds. All study skin birds are found dead as window strike or road/ cat kills and legally collected. The course is techniques-based and will provide students with 1) the skills to handle professional mist nets, safely handle and remove wild birds from nets, and properly band birds with regulated federal bands, and 2) the rare opportunity to practice the art of study skin preparation of birds for natural history museums. Weekly readings and discussions of the current literature in bird biology will provide breadth and depth to the student’s knowledge. Pre-req: BIO 218 or BIO 221, or permission of instructor. This course counts as an upper-level elective for the Conservation Biology major.
330. Ecology of Lakes and Rivers. (with lab) (1.25 units)
The biology of freshwater organisms from a community and ecosystem perspective. Topics include food web dynamics, fisheries science, primary production, seasonal succession and nutrient cycling. Emphasis is on interactions among fish, invertebrate and plant communities, as well as the influence of their physical, chemical and geological settings. Class projects investigate local and regional lakes and rivers; thus there is a substantial amount of field/lab work. There is also emphasis on the characterization of watersheds using GIS. This course will include discussions of class readings (there is moderate to high reading load). This class is ideal for junior and senior Biology, Biology–Environmental Studies, and Conservation Biology majors. Prerequisite is BIOL 221. Offered each fall semester. Also fulfills the advanced ecology requirement of the conservation biology major.
333. Immunology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
The immune system boasts powerful mechanisms that protect the body from invading pathogens. We explore the development and function of a diverse repertoire of T and B lymphocytes, the range of powerful antibody-mediated responses, and the pre-programmed responses of phagocytic cells and natural killer cells. These basic concepts are then integrated to analyze the immune system’s function in disease states including cancer, organ transplant, autoimmunity, infectious disease and immunodeficiency. Laboratory activities highlight immune-based techniques fundamental to research in immunology as well as other biological fields. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102 or equivalent. Also counts as an elective for the neuroscience (cellular tracks) major.
341. Anatomy and Physiology I. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This course is devoted to the principles and science of anatomy and physiology. Students will learn respiratory, muscular, cardiovascular, skeletal, and gastrointestinal human physiology in lectures. The labs will concentrate on the relationship between anatomical form and function, human physiology, and medical problem solving as an application of anatomy and physiology. The lab portion of the course is intended to challenge students to find anatomical landmarks on a variety of specimens; to increase understanding of respiratory, cardiovascular and muscle physiology; and to think critically about how altered anatomy or physiology results in disease. Prerequisites: Biology 101, 102 or equivalent. Offered each fall. Also counts as an elective for the neuroscience (cellular track) majors.
343. Evolution. (with lab) (1.25 units)
In this course we examine life on earth from a historical perspective and evaluate the fundamental evolutionary processes that have produced the diversity of life that we see today. Study topics include the origin of life on earth, mutation as the creator of genetic variation, natural selection, adaptation, population genetics, speciation and extinction. Laboratory projects are designed to develop technical skills in molecular biology and phylogenetic analysis. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Recommended: BIOL 245. Also fulfills the genetics/evolution requirement for the conservation biology major.
350. Cancer Biology.
Cancer remains one of the most fascinating and yet devastating diseases afflicting humankind. In this course, we will explore the unique molecular and cellular abnormalities that transform healthy cells into dysregulated, rapidly proliferating cancer cells. Genetic and environmental causes of cancer will be identified from an epidemiological perspective and further described at the molecular level. Students will read relevant primary research articles throughout the course and will work in pairs to present a current study to the class. Pre-requisites: BIOL 101 and 102 and one of these: BIOL 245 or 250. Offered every spring semester.
351. Anatomy and Physiology II. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This course is devoted to the general principles and concepts of anatomy and physiology. Lecture topics include functioning of the nervous, hepatic, reproductive, excretory and endocrine systems. The lab is dedicated to the study of human anatomy and physiology and the relationship between anatomical form and function. Lab activities include dissection, an introduction to microscopic anatomy/histology, physiology experiments and disease focused problem solving sessions. The course is intended to increase the appreciation of the vast complexity of vertebrate anatomy and physiology and one’s own biology. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102. Offered each spring semester; two lab sections. Also counts as an elective for the neuroscience (cellular track) majors.
353. Human Embryology.
In this course, we examine the fundamental processes and principles that govern the development of humans from fertilization to birth. Developmental processes are considered at the molecular, cellular and anatomical levels. An emphasis is placed on understanding how the human body is constructed, including the development of organs and organ systems. We will also examine abnormal development and human birth defects. Required BIOL 101 and 102. Also counts as an elective for the neuroscience (cellular tracks) major.
370. Hormones, Disease and Development.
This course is designed to teach the basic principles of both general (i.e. human and medical) and comparative (other types of vertebrates and invertebrates) endocrinology, stressing the diverse ways in which different types of animals have evolved to adapt physiologically to their environments. Students will become familiar with key endocrine systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, the stress response, reproduction, salt/water balance, and many others and will gain knowledge of how environmental endocrine disruptors are influencing development, growth, and reproduction of wildlife and humans. Quantitative thinking skills and productive intellectual interactions will be developed by reading and analyzing studies from the primary literature. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102.
380. Tropical Ecology.
A seminar course based on current research in tropical biology. Emphasis is on the structure, function and biology of tropical organisms and ecosystems, especially as compared to temperate systems. Lectures include South American, Australasian and African tropical ecosystems. The course addresses the role of plant-animal interactions, mutualisms, sustainable development, conservation measures and the roles of indigenous cultures in tropical ecosystems. Prerequisite: BIOL 101 and 102. Also offered as ENVS 380. Also fulfills the advanced ecology requirement of the conservation biology major.
381. Research Methods Training. (0.5 or 1 unit)
Specialized instruction intended to provide non-senior research training specific to a particular research technique or analysis. The instruction provided to students through BIOL 381 Is not typically obtained through the laboratory experiences of regularly offered courses. The subject of the course will be indicated on the student’s transcript as “Research Methods Training in X” with “X” being the research area (e.g., endocrinology). Enrollment in BIOL381 is by permission only. Cannot be used to fulfill biology major requirements.
387. Cellular Mechanisms of Memory.
This course examines the molecular mechanisms of neuronal plasticity. Topics include an analysis of the cellular processes that have been proposed to be at the core of memory formation, with discussion of the electrophysiological methods that have been used to analyze these processes; the biochemical mechanisms for short-term and long-term information storage at the cellular level and the vertebrate and invertebrate experimental models used for studying the molecules involved in memory formation. Prerequisites BIOL/NRSCI 288. Counts toward the neuroscience major (cellular track). Offered on alternate fall semesters. Also offered as NRSCI 387.
388. Drugs and the Brain. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This course will focus on how psychoactive drugs modify nervous system function and human behavior. The neurochemical and behavioral techniques used to study drug action will be addressed. Students will learn how drugs are metabolized by the body (pharmacokinetics), act (pharmacodynamics) and affect behavior (psychopharmacology), gaining comprehensive understanding of the neurotransmitter systems of the brain and how different drugs affect these systems. The laboratory component will utilize the nematode C. elegans as a model system to explore drug action; students will learn research techniques and carry out independent research. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL/NRSCI 288. Counts toward the neuroscience major (both tracks). Offered every spring semester. Also offered as NRSCI 388.
389. Advanced Neuroscience.
Builds on the fundamental concepts presented in BIOL/NRSCI 288 (Introduction to Neuroscience) and begins to examine neurobiology from a systems perspective. Topics include the biological basis of sexual orientation, sleep and dreaming, sleep disorders, epilepsy and seizures, motivation and addiction, Alzheimer’s disease, disorders of thought and volition, and mood disorders. Prerequisite: BIOL/NRSCI 288. Required for the neuroscience major. Offered every spring semester. Also offered as NRSCI 389.
391. Research Methods in Scanning Electron Microscopy. (with lab) (.5 unit)
This course deals with the theoretical and practical aspects of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elemental analysis using EDS. Specifically, we will be using a brand new state of the art Quanta 450 SEM with Oxford EDS detector. Mastery of the course topics will require 6 hours of lab/class as well as 3-6 hours of independent work per week for 7 weeks. Those who master these skills will be welcome to use the instruments to conduct independent (senior or mentor guided) research. The initial classes will have greater emphasis on theory, and as we progress, we will spend more time on the scope. All students will be trained how to properly use this instrument. Students are expected to spend time outside class working on specimen prep, imaging, and image processing. This will culminate in a final portfolio of images. Also offered as GEOL 391. Prerequisite: at least one 200- or 300-level science course. This course cannot be used to fulfill biology major requirements.
392. Research Methods in Fluorescence and Confocal Microscopy. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Fluorescence microscopy allows a biological specimen to be fluorescently labeled and imaged. This technique is employed in many research labs and is a standard tool to locate the presence of a particular protein or cell structure. This technique, however, has limitations and is not precise in its ability to discern the specific depth of structures. Confocal microscopy was developed to address the issue of specificity of position. Precise imaging has led to confocal becoming a major tool in biological research. Students in this course will learn the theory and practice of both fluorescence and confocal microscopy. Students will be assigned a variety of specimens to be stained. These specimens are selected specifically to teach new techniques in specimen prep or imaging. Students will learn lab and laser safety, light and fluorescence, optics, the upright fluorescence microscope, the inverted confocal microscope, photomultiplier tubes, resolution and numerical aperture, specimen preparation, basic immunology, and image acquisition, processing, and presentation. Semester will culminate with individual portfolios of selected images. Prerequisites: any 200- or 300-level science course. Also fulfills methods course requirement for the neuroscience major (cellular track). Offered each semester.
394. Research Methods in Biochemistry. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This course focuses on introducing basic laboratory techniques and skills that are common in fields related to biochemistry. Attention is paid to both theory and application. Students keep a detailed laboratory notebook, and write up an extended project in the style of a journal article. Prerequisites: CHEM 222 and any one of BIOL 231, 245, 250, 391 or CHEM 309 (which can be taken as a co-requisite). Also required for the biochemistry major. Also offered as BIOCH 394. Offered each spring semester.
395. Research Methods in Molecular Biology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
Molecular techniques have revolutionized how biologists address problems in genetics, medicine, ecology, systematics, conservation and many other fields. Students obtain hands-on experience using basic and advanced molecular techniques, such as nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) isolation and purification, DNA sequencing, gel electrophoresis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to study gene expression and genetic variability. The molecular techniques studied are the same used in laboratories worldwide. In addition to gaining practical experience in the laboratory, students learn about the theories behind each molecular protocol and study how biologists apply molecular techniques to answer fundamental biological questions. Prerequisites: BIOL 245, 250 or 394. Also offered as BIOCH 395. Also required for biochemistry major and fulfills methods course requirement for the neuroscience major (cellular track). Offered each fall semester.
399. Current Topics in Neuroscience.
This seminar course will cover a wide variety of topics related to current neuroscience research. Our main source of information will be neuroscience primary literature articles available in the public domain. Students enrolled in the course will decide on the topics that will be addressed throughout the semester, will read the primary literature and will lead critical and comprehensive discussions on each research topic. Examples of topics that can be covered in this course include: epigenetics; mirror neurons; autism spectrum disorders; neurobiology of mental disorders; learning and memory; drug abuse and addiction; and the aging brain. Prerequisites: BIOL/NRSCI 288. Counts toward the neuroscience major (both tracks). Offered on alternate fall semesters. Also offered as NRSCI 399.
412. Cross-Cultural Perspectives of Healing.
This class uses healing traditions as the lens with which to examine culture. During the semester students will have the opportunity to meet healers from around the world. In a typical semester presenters include a Traditional Chinese Medical practitioner, an Ayurvedic physician (from India), a shaman from Peru, an exorcist, a native American Healer an allopathic physician, new age healers, a Christian Scientist and others. This course cannot be used to fulfill the requirements for the biology major. Also offered as REL 412 and GS 412.
415. Advanced Biochemistry.
A variety of topics are covered in depth depending on the interests of the students. The course begins with an overview of metabolism and its hormonal regulation. Other topics may include protein synthesis and targeting, molecular immunology, sensory systems and neurotransmission, hormone action, membrane transport, oncogenes and cancer, photosynthesis and advanced topics in metabolism. Topics of current interest may also be included. Through both written and oral presentation, students develop their abilities to use the scientific literature and communicate in science. Prerequisite: CHEM 309 or permission of instructor. Also required for biochemistry major. Also offered as BIOCH 415.
440. Conservation Biology. (with lab) (1.25 units)
This is the capstone course required for all senior Conservation Biology majors, but seniors with any major who have completed the pre-requisites may register as well and are welcome. This course examines the problem of maintaining biodiversity in a changing world. The course integrates ideas from economics, philosophy, and biology to help us understand the human dimensions of why biodiversity is at risk in the first place. We then focus on the causes of biodiversity loss and their solutions. Students complete a significant capstone research project as a component of this course. Prerequisites: Senior standing; Biology 221 (Ecology) or Biology 245/246 (Genetics).
460, 461. Seminar in the Techniques of Teaching Biology.
In weekly meetings, Lab teaching assistants review the effectiveness of the previous week’s lessons and test upcoming lab protocols and procedures. Peer Pod (group review) teaching assistants review lecture content and work through each week’s set of student activities to fine-tune each activity prior to meeting with students for review sessions. Weekly discussions with both types of teaching assistants include topics such as improving teaching quality, techniques to increase active learning and inquiry by students, and effective demonstration of lab and study techniques. Biology 460, no credit, may be repeated. Biology 461 may be taken once for 0.5 unit of credit following one semester of 460. Cannot be used to fulfill biology major requirements.
468. SYE: Biology Capstone I. (1 unit)
Faculty-mentored exploration of a topic in biology. The collaboratively designed SYE project allows a student to establish expertise on a subject relevant to their biology education by acquiring knowledge from appropriate resources, including primary, secondary, and tertiary literature, historical records, interviews, etc. This Capstone Experience may be continued for a second semester by the student enrolling in BIOL469 or it culminates in the synthesis of the student’s acquired knowledge through the production of a significant creative work, such as a paper, blog, podcast, teaching module, or guide that will be archived in the University’s digital archives. Also, after the project has concluded, the student must present their work publicly, either at an event organized by the biology department or at the Festival of Science. Counts as an elective course for the biology major but cannot be used as a course to fulfill the biology major lab requirement. Prerequisite: Sponsorship by a faculty member.
469. SYE: Biology Capstone II. (0.5 or 1 unit)
Continuation of faculty-mentored exploration of a topic in biology. The collaboratively designed SYE project allows a student to establish expertise on a subject relevant to their biology education by acquiring knowledge from appropriate resources, including primary, secondary, and tertiary literature, historical records, interviews, etc. This Capstone Experience culminates in the synthesis of the student’s acquired knowledge through the production of a significant creative work, such as a paper, blog, podcast, teaching module, or guide that will be archived in the University’s digital archives. Also, after the project has concluded, the student must present their work publicly, either at an event organized by the biology department or at the Festival of Science. Cannot be used as an elective for the biology major. Prerequisites: BIOL468 and sponsorship by a faculty member.
489. SYE: Biology Capstone Original Research I. (1 unit)
Faculty-mentored field, laboratory, and/or in silico research projects for students desiring to conduct an original study to address a biology-related question. Students use their knowledge of biology and field, laboratory, and/or computer research techniques to collect novel data that is analyzed for comparison to existing scientific primary literature. This Capstone Experience may be continued for a second semester by the student enrolling in BIOL490 or it culminates in a paper written following the conventions for publication in an appropriate scientific journal and a public presentation of the research project, either at an event organized by the biology department or at the Festival of Science. Prerequisite: sponsorship by a faculty member. Counts as an elective with lab for the biology major.
490. SYE: Biology Capstone Original Research II. (0.5 or 1 unit)
Continuation of faculty-mentored field, laboratory, and/or in silico research projects for students desiring to conduct an original study to address a biology-related question. Students use their knowledge of biology and field, laboratory, or computer research techniques to collect novel data that is analyzed for comparison to existing scientific primary literature. Also, after the project has concluded, the student must present their work publicly, either at an event organized by the biology department or at the Festival of Science. Prerequisite: sponsorship by a faculty member and BIOL489. Cannot be used as an elective for the biology major.
499. SYE: Biology Capstone Honors. (1 unit)
Graduation in biology with the designation of honors requires exceptional academic accomplishments including achievements during a prior Capstone Experience (BIOL468 or BIOL489), a biology major GPA of at least a 3.5, a public presentation, approval of the honors committee, a written honors thesis that is bound and archived in the biology department office and the science library. Prerequisites: Senior status, BIOL468 or BIOL489, sponsorship by a faculty member, and nomination by your honors committee. For complete guidelines for Honors in Biology see the Biology Department’s webpage. Cannot be used as an elective for the biology major.