Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences · Courses
BIO
45 courses with the subject BIO, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
BIO 111General Biology I
This course focuses on the molecular and cellular aspects of life. Major topics covered include biological molecules, cellular structure, cellular metabolism, Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, evolution, and plant physiology. Laboratory exercises concentrate on cell structure, tissue structure, molecular genetics and biotechnology. This is the initial course in biological sciences for all students. (4); Lecture and Laboratory
This course focuses on the diversity of animal life and the complex interactions that occur within and between organisms, with a strong emphasis on human systems. Major topics covered include a phylogenetic survey of organisms, comparative physiology of the major vertebrate organ systems, cellular mechanisms of development, embryology, population and community ecology, and future challenges to the biosphere. Laboratory exercises concentrate on comparative anatomy and physiology with a strong emphasis on human biology. This is the second course in biological sciences for all students. (4); Prerequisite: BIO 111 or permission of the instructor; Lecture and
This is a discovery-based undergraduate research course. It will provide an understanding of the basic concepts of phage biology and practical knowledge of various lab techniques pertaining to isolation of phages from the environment. Students will employ various techniques for isolating, purifying, and characterizing phages. It will be a hands-on, project-oriented course. Lectures will include information on phage biology, basics of host bacteria and phage therapy. Students will be equipped to critically think, discuss, and present their research to a wider audience. (2) Prereqs: permission of instructor
This is the second part of the discovery-based undergraduate research course. It will provide an understanding of the basic concepts of genome annotation and practical knowledge of different bioinformatics tools. Students will annotate the genome of 1-2 phages that they had isolated from the environment. Using various bioinformatics tools they will identify gene information, tRNAs encoded in the phage genome, and predict protein function when
BIO 210 Microbiology (formerly BIO 312) The goal of this course is to cover the fundamentals of microbiology and infectious diseases. The first half of the course focuses on the general characteristics of prokaryotes, eukaryotes and viruses, and explores the basic concepts in microbial physiology and genetics. The mechanisms by which antimicrobials control the growth of microorganisms are also discussed. The second half of the course examines the causative agents and pathogenesis of infectious diseases caused by medically important bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. Diagnosis and treatment of these diseases are also discussed via clinical case studies to foster active learning by the students. The laboratory component provides hands-on experience to students with sterile technique, staining, various biochemical tests and molecular techniques. (4); Prerequisites: BIO 101/111, BIO 102/121; Lecture and Laboratory
BIO 148Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology I Lab
This laboratory course is designed to complement the lecture content of Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology I, providing students with hands-on experience in studying the human body’s structure and function. (1); Corequisite:
This lecture course is the first course of a sequence which studies human anatomy and physiology. The goal of this course is to introduce the student to the structure, function, regulation and integration of organs and organ systems involved in the human body. This course will begin with an introduction to the study of anatomy and physiology, and a review of the basic chemistry, cell and tissue concepts covered in General Biology. Topics covered in this course will include the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine systems, and special senses. Prerequisites: General Biology I and II
This laboratory course complements the Anatomy and Physiology I lecture course (BIO213). The focus of this course is on human anatomy at a level that is appropriate for those students interested in healthcare careers. The sequence of organ systems studied are integumentary system, nervous system, skeletal system, muscular system and endocrine system. Laboratory exercises teach students concepts in anatomy and physiology using anatomical models, histology specimens, and electrophysiology workstations. Clinical correlations are made through the extensive use of medical case studies. (1); Corequisite: BIO 213
This lecture course is the second in a sequence of two courses that studies the function, regulation and integration of organs and organ systems involved in human anatomy and physiology. This course will focus on the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, and digestive systems. Also covered will be aspects of metabolism,
This laboratory course complements the Anatomy and Physiology II lecture course (BIO215). The focus of this course is on human anatomy at a level that is appropriate for those students interested in healthcare careers. The sequence of organ systems studied are male and female reproductive systems, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, urinary system and digestive system. Laboratory exercises teach students concepts in anatomy and physiology using anatomical models, histology specimens, and electrophysiology workstations. Clinical correlations are made through the extensive use of medical case studies. (1); Corequisite: BIO 215
BIO 218Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology II Lab
This laboratory course is designed to complement the lecture content of Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology II, offering students hands-on experience in studying the advanced systems of the human body. (1); Corequisite:
The course is designed to familiarize students with various types of scientific communications and to help students develop three core skills: 1) to critically read and analyze scientific documents, 2) to learn and practice writing in proper scientific language and formats and 3) to disseminate scientific information to scientific and lay communities. The characteristics of clear, concise and organized analysis and writing in each type of scientific format will be examined through review and evaluation of scientific literature, presentations, and sample proposals. Students will develop their skills through class exercises, homework assignments, and preparation of written and oral materials.
This course provides an opportunity for students to obtain a hands-on research experience under the guidance of a faculty member. The number of credit hours and scope of the project undertaken are at the discretion of the faculty member involved. BIO 290 is generally reserved for introductory level experiences and/or smaller scale projects. Students are expected to perform three hours of research related work per credit hour earned. (1-3); Prerequisite: permission of the instructor
This course provides an introduction to Developmental Biology. We will begin by establishing a strong foundation regarding the processes, questions, and tools underpinning the field of animal development, including mechanisms of developmental patterning and cell differentiation, cell-to cell communication, and the establishment and roles of stem cells. Upon addressing gametogenesis and fertilization, we will engage in a comparative analysis of cleavage, gastrulation, and axis specification in diverse metazoan taxa, with the ultimate goal of having a deeper understanding of early human development. Finally, we take a general overview of processes by which the three germ layers orchestrate formation of the vertebrate nervous system, epidermis, and cardiovascular system, blood,
This course provides an introduction to ecology and evolution. Topics include physiological and behavioral ecology; population and community dynamics; ecosystem and landscape ecology; natural selection; population genetics; speciation; and the phylogenetic history and systematics of life. Students will complete a project in which they assess biodiversity by evaluating and employing tools for creating and visualizing phylogenies. We will explore the connections between these concepts and global challenges such as agricultural sustainability, ecosystem-climate interactions, biodiversity change, and emerging perspectives on human medicine that fall under the umbrella of 'evolutionary medicine'. Pre-requisites: BIO 111 and BIO 121. 3 credits BIO 331 Mammalian Cell Culture. This course focuses on the applications of mammalian cells in the production of modern biomedicines. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions, students learn the essential principles and techniques in upstream mammalian cell culture technologies, data analysis, automated cell counters, and bioreactor operations. Upon completion of this course, students will understand the principles and industrial applications of mammalian cells. (3) BIO 335 Genetics (formerly BIO 225) This course offers students the opportunity to learn the fundamental principles of genetics and its recent advance related to health care practice. Major topics include principles of Mendelian inheritance, theory of gene linkage and recombination, mechanisms of gene expression regulation including epigenetics, analysis of gene function with emphasizing in mutation and DNA repair, advanced concepts of human genomics and sequencing technology. Genetics is a science that is highly related to the advancement of biotechnology and its applications in health care nowadays. Common human genetic disorders will be discussed in this class, and other interesting topics include human personal identification, genetic testing, technology in gene therapy and basic concept of pharmacogenomics. BIO 337 Cell and Gene Therapy: This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the transformative field of Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT), tracing its historical milestones from early genetic theories to modern clinical breakthroughs. The curriculum integrates the fundamental biology of viral vectors and cellular engineering with advanced biotechnology and large-scale biomanufacturing processes. Students will examine the rigorous standards of Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA), alongside the evolving global regulatory frameworks essential for patient safety. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and case studies, students will develop scientific expertise to bridge laboratory innovation with industrial commercialization, ultimately designing a strategic roadmap for bringing novel regenerative medicines to market. This course emphasizes the application of scientific communication and technical writing principles. Upon completion of this course, students will learn the principles and industrial applications of cell and gene therapy. Recommended courses are: Microbiology (BIO 210), Cell Biology (BIO 346)
BIO 348Microbial Fermentation. This course focuses on fundamental principles and techniques of industrial
microbiology. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions, students learn the principles and techniques in microbial fermentation technology, upstream microbial bioprocessing, data analysis, and microbial bioreactor operations. Upon completion of this course, students will understand the principles and industrial applications of microbial cells. (3) BIO 349 Virology (formerly BIO 240) This lecture-based course provides an introduction to the field of virology. Topics presented will include virus structure, viral genetics, steps in viral replication, diseases and pathogensis, and natural history of a variety of medically important viruses. The discovery and activity of contemporary anti-viral drugs and therapeutics will also be discussed. Case studies, group discussions, and analyses of current scientific literature will be used to foster an in-depth understanding of virology and its relationship to human health. (3); Prerequisites: BIO 210
In the first course of this series, emphasis will be placed on imparting hands-on training in immunology and biochemistry laboratory techniques and application of these techniques to investigate research problems. Students will be trained in good laboratory practices, lab safety, proper handling of equipment, use of standard protocols, incorporation of appropriate controls, data collection, analysis and interpretation of experimental results. (3);
In the second course of this series, emphasis will be placed on imparting hands-on training in laboratory techniques routinely used in molecular biology and microbial genetics and application of these techniques to develop and investigate research problems. Students will be trained in good laboratory practices, lab safety, proper handling of
This first half of this course involves a comparative study of the morphology, physiology, ecology, and pathogenicity of medically important fungi. Discussions will include infectious diseases caused by fungi including their etiology, epidemiology, histopathology, diagnosis, and treatment. The second half of the course will introduce students to protozoan and helminth parasites of medical and veterinary importance; life cycles, morphology, physiology, taxonomic classification, host-parasite relationships, economic and public health aspects and current topics in parasitic diseases. (3); Prerequisite: BIO 210
This lecture-based course provides an in-depth analysis of the general concepts of prokaryotic cell biology with a particular emphasis on eubacteria. Topics presented will include key functions of all prokaryotic cells including DNA replication, transcription, translation, protein secretion, energy production, stress responses, motility, and signaling. Key structural components of prokaryotic cells will also be described including membranes, the cell wall, and glycocalyx. Latter portions of the semester will cover the physiology of specific pathogens during the course of infection. This course is focused on lecture-based, graphical presentation but also includes components of self- directed learning and critical thinking including group discussions and student research papers. (3); Prerequisites: BIO 210; CHE 201/211
BIO 410Biopharmaceutical Microbiology. This course focuses on how applied microbiology drives the safety of
modern biomedicines and pharmaceutical products. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions, students learn the principles of microbial identification, environmental monitoring, and contamination control. Upon completion of this course, students will understand the principles of risk mitigation strategies required for the safe production of biomedicines and biotechnologically derived products. (3); Prerequisite: BIO 111, BIO 121. BIO 452 Health Science Senior Seminar. This seminar course is open to senior B.S. Health Sciences students only. Health Sciences Senior Seminar is a culminating senior-level course designed to synthesize academic, experiential, and professional learning across the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program. Students complete a comprehensive program Exit Exam, finalize and submit a pre-health competency-based co-curricular portfolio, participate in structured Mock Mini Interviews (MMIs), and engage in guided reflection on their academic and professional development. (1); Restricted to Health Science majors.
Microbiology Capstone Experience is an opportunity for students to integrate information from earlier courses and apply the concepts and skills acquired to a microbiology related research problem or an extramural internship experience. The course will assist students in their learning by bridging their classroom knowledge with real world microbiological issues faced by the researchers and health care professionals in academia and/or industry. Microbiology Capstone Experience is a combination of two senior-level microbiology courses for a total of six credit hours. Students will be required to complete a hypothesis driven independent research project culminating in an oral/written presentation. An approved internship experience in any microbiology or public health laboratory, pharmaceutical industry, or government agency employing microbiologists may be substituted for one semester of Capstone experience. (3); Prerequisite: Senior Standing in Microbiology Program or permission of the instructor
This course provides an opportunity for students to obtain a hands-on research experience under the guidance of a faculty member. The number of credit hours and scope of the project undertaken are at the discretion of the faculty member involved. BIO 490 is generally reserved for more advanced research projects of students with prior research experience. Students are expected to perform three hours of research related work per credit hour earned. Faculty members may expect students to present their research in venues either internal or external to the college. (1-3);
This course provides an opportunity for students to obtain PharmD professional elective credit for a hands-on research experience under the guidance of a faculty member. The number of credit hours and scope of the project undertaken are at the discretion of the faculty member involved. BIO 491 is generally reserved for more advanced research projects of students with prior research experience. Students are expected to perform three hours of research related work per credit hour earned. Faculty members may expect students to present their research in venues either internal or external to the college. (1-3); Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
This graduate level course is devoted to the study of host defense and the immune system. It examines the cells and organs of the system. It also explores the complex mechanism of cell-cell cooperation necessary to produce immune responses. The role of antibodies, T cells and macrophages in host defense and diseases are thoroughly explored. The role of the immune system in hypersensitivity, autoimmunity and transplantation is carefully examined. In addition, methods for modifying immune responses through drugs and vaccines are discussed. (3); Prerequisites: BIO 111 and BIO 121 or equivalent; BIO 346 or equivalent is recommended.
The goal of the course is to provide an in-depth understanding of the emergence, transmission, pathogenicity, and control of infectious diseases relevant to public health. The course will primarily focus on emerging infectious diseases, zoonotic and vector-borne diseases, sexually transmitted diseases, and food and water-borne diseases. Additional topics of discussion will include bioterrorism and antibiotic resistance issues as they relate to public health. Emphasis will be placed on understanding and applying the critical concepts of epidemiology and microbiology to a particular public health problem by using clinical case studies. (3); Prerequisites: BIO 210
This course will explore various cutting-edge topics in Microbiology through Journal club style presentations of primary literature from high impact peer reviewed journals. Each session will begin with a brief overview of the background information by the instructor followed by critical evaluation of the paper through student presentations and group discussions. The course will be divided in four broad themes. The first theme covers general microbial concepts including bacterial physiology and structure, metabolism and genetics. The second theme will explore the microbial virulence mechanisms, anti-microbials, and antibiotic resistance mechanisms, along with discussing novel prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for important bacterial infectious diseases. The third theme of the course will include the nature and biological activities of viruses, virus-host interactions and some important viral diseases.
This lecture-based course provides an in-depth analysis of the general concepts of molecular biology in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells that occur in nature as well as those applied to the laboratory. The course consists of 3 parts. The first part of the course will focus on aspects of molecular biology that occur in nature. Topics presented will include detailed mechanisms of DNA organization, DNA replication, transcription, gene regulation, genetic recombination, translation, protein folding and degradation, and biochemistry of lipids and membrane formation. The second part of the course will focus on concepts of molecular biology that have been exploited for use in laboratory research. Topics will include cell growth and tissue culture, analysis and manipulation of DNA (DNA isolation, hybridization, PCR, sequencing, creation of knockouts/mutants, RNAi, qPCR, & RNA seq), the functions and importance of antibodies in research, recombinant protein expression and purification, and protein analysis/detection methods. The third part of the course will focus on scientific communication. In this part of the course students will give a journal-club style oral presentation on a topic in molecular biology. (3); Prerequisite: PSC 311/312 or CHE 312/313 or equivalent.
This lecture-based course provides an in-depth analysis of the general concepts of cell biology with a particular focus on eukaryotic cells within the animal kingdom. Topics presented will include key events in the cytosol and cytoplasmic organelles (including protein production, protein modifications, vesicle trafficking and energy production), structural components of cells (including membranes, the cytoskeleton, and extracellular matrix), cell signaling, programmed cell death modules, and functions of specialized cell types (including coverage of the immune system). This course is focused on lecture-based, graphical presentation but also includes components of self- directed learning and critical thinking including group discussions and student presentations. (3); Prerequisite: BIO 111 and BIO 121. BIO 346 or equivalent is strongly recommended.
BIO 631GMammalian Cell Culture. This course focuses on applications of mammalian cells in the production of
modern biomedicines. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions, students learn the essential principles and techniques in upstream mammalian cell culture technologies, data analysis, automated cell counters, and bioreactor operations. Additionally, students will research and present findings on current trends and applications of mammalian cells in the production of modern biomedicines and other value-added, biotechnologically derived products. Upon completion of this course, students will understand the principles and industrial applications of mammalian cells. (3) BIO 637 Cell and Gene Therapy: This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the transformative field of Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT), tracing its historical milestones from early genetic theories to modern clinical breakthroughs. The curriculum integrates the fundamental biology of viral vectors and cellular engineering with advanced biotechnology and large-scale biomanufacturing processes. Students will examine the rigorous standards of Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA), alongside the evolving global regulatory frameworks essential for patient safety. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and case studies, students will develop scientific expertise to bridge laboratory innovation with industrial commercialization, ultimately designing a strategic roadmap for bringing novel regenerative medicines to market. This course emphasizes the application of scientific communication and technical writing principles. Students will research and present their findings on current trends in cell and gene therapy. Peer reviews will be incorporated to enhance critical evaluation and communication skills.
BIO 641G Current Topics in Biopharmaceutical Technology (Pending Approval)
This course will cover special research topics related to emerging and existing technologies in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The theme of the Spring 2021 course offering will be cell and gene therapies, including but not limited to stem cell engineering, clinical applications of regenerative medicine, and novel approaches to deliver therapeutic biologics. The impact and critical importance of future advances in cell- and gene-based therapeutics within the biopharmaceutical industry will be discussed. (3)
BIO 648G Microbial Fermentation. This course focuses on fundamental principles and techniques of industrial
microbiology. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions, students learn the principles and techniques in microbial fermentation technology, upstream microbial bioprocessing, data analysis, and microbial bioreactor operations. Additionally, students will research and present findings on current trends and applications of microbial cells in the production of modern biomedicines and other value-added, biotechnologically derived products. Upon completion of this course, students will understand the principles and industrial applications of industrial microbiology. (3)
This graduate-level course will introduce students to the research methods used in the biological sciences. Topics to be covered include research design, data collection and documentation, critical literature review, preparation of a NIH-style grant application, and academic presentations and publications. Class discussions, workshops, and writing assignments will provide students with opportunities to both practice learned research methods as well as apply these methods toward the design of a potential thesis research project. (2)
This course focuses on how applied microbiology drives the safety of modern biomedicines and pharmaceutical products. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions, students learn the principles of microbial identification, environmental monitoring, and contamination control. Additionally, students will research and present findings on current trends in quality control and risk mitigation strategies for modern biomedicines. Upon completion of this course, students will understand the principles of risk mitigation strategies required for the safe production of biomedicines and biotechnologically derived products. (3)
This course is designed to enhance the ability of graduate students to critically evaluate scientific articles published in juried scientific journals. Articles will be selected from current scientific literature in a variety of disciplines in the molecular biosciences, including cell biology, molecular biology, medicinal chemistry biochemistry, microbiology, immunology and infectious diseases. All participants will read and critique the articles. Each student will present at least two articles per semester. (1)
This course will introduce the principles of microbiology as applied to biomanufacturing aspects of biopharmaceutical industry. It will cover a wide range of topics including the nature of microorganisms, contamination sources and control, sterilization and disinfection, and sterility testing methodologies. Mainly,
Students will complete two laboratory rotations of seven weeks each in order to facilitate the selection of a thesis research advisor. Students will select a potential mentor based on interests and availability of openings in any given lab. Assignments, based on student preferences, will be made by the program director. Students are expected to spend a minimum of 10 hours per week on laboratory research during the rotation. They are to meet with the faculty advisor at least one hour per week for basic introduction to laboratory principles and practices, and to discuss their research. Students are required to complete reading assignments as directed by the faculty advisor and write a report of the research data and present a ten minute talk summarizing their research at the end of the rotation. (2)
The biopharmaceutical capstone will serve as a culminating part of the MS degree program on advanced topics in biotechnology. This capstone course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to advanced topics in biotechnology, including, cell line development, high throughput platforms, process development, scaling-up technologies, biomanufacturing, bioprocessing and regulatory landscapes in biotech/biopharma. It will require the production of a peer-reviewed, journal article quality, written document. The document (25-40 pages) will either be (1) a major literature review on an existing scientific topic that is relevant to the student’s field of study, or (2) based on a no-credit experiential learning experience such as a co-op, internship, or lab research. Upon completion of the course, the student will demonstrate the ability to understand, synthesize and analyze a complex industrial/scientific topic using critical thinking skills, evaluating possible outcomes and clearly presenting sound scientific conclusions. Students will be required to orally present and successfully defend their final capstone report for committee review. (3); Prerequisites: Permission of Instructor
BIO 676G Graduate Microbiology: Microbial Physiology and Pathogenesis
This course is designed to provide students with fundamental and cutting-edge information on the molecular mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis. Topics presented will include virulence factors, virulence regulation, and evasion strategies utilized by bacteria to survive host defense mechanisms. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding the genetic, molecular, and biochemical approaches that can be used to study these host-pathogen interactions. Intervention strategies, including vaccination and anti-microbial therapy along with bacterial resistance mechanisms will also be discussed. Data analysis from primary literature will form a major component of the course. (3); Prerequisites: BIO 210, BIO 346, PSC 315, PSC 311 or CHE 311.
This course is designed to provide students with fundamental and cutting-edge information on the molecular mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis. Topics presented will include virulence factors, virulence regulation and evasion strategies utilized by bacteria to survive host defense mechanisms. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding the genetic, molecular, and biochemical approaches that can be used to study these host-pathogen
Considering the increased burden of viral diseases as well as more frequent viral outbreaks, it becomes immensely important to equip new generation of health professionals and researchers with an extensive understanding of viral pathogenesis. This lecture- based course is intended to provide an in-depth understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying diverse virus-induced pathogenesis affecting various tissues. This course will be conducted in 3 parts. In the first part, students will be familiarized with the basic concepts of viral structure, entry, mode of replication, and viral evasion of host immune response. Second part will deal with viral invasion and pathogenesis including neuropathology, cardiovascular complications, inflammation, malignancies, developmental defects, and respiratory complications. The last component will include discussion of advanced research (journal-club style) in the field of viral pathogenesis to enhance student’s scientific communication and critical thinking skills. Overall, this course will provide a comprehensive account of disease manifestation by leading viral pathogens (e.g. HIV, HCV, Flaviviruses, Coronavirus, Influenza virus, Herpesvirus, Hepatitis C virus, HPV, and HTLV-1). (3) Prerequisites: BIO 111/BIO 112 (General Biology) and BIO 346 Cell Biology OR PSC 312 OR BIO 625 OR BIO 630 OR CHE 311/PSC 311.
The student will identify an appropriate area of research and a thesis advisor. The student will develop a research proposal. The specific topic and nature of the research will be determined by the student and thesis advisor. On receiving approval from the program director, a thesis committee will be established to act in an advisory capacity for thesis proposal defense. On successful defense of the proposal, the student will commence the research. Studies involving humans must be approved by the College’s IRB. Studies involving animals must be approved by IAUCC. Project involving data collection and management must adhere to GLP requirements. Once the work has been completed, the student will write and defend the thesis. (1-6)
