207 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 100Topics in Biology4
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics. Involves laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. These courses are intended for students with little or no previous experience in biology and are not recommended for those pursuing a career in the health professions or who are planning to continue in biology. Does NOT count toward the biology major or minor. (D)
Introduction to basic principles in biology, emphasizing recent advances in biology in the context of their ethical, social, political, and economic considerations. Intended for students with little or no previous experience in biology. BIO 101 is not recommended for those pursuing a career in the health professions or who are planning to continue in biology. Does NOT count toward the biology major or minor. Credit not given for both BIO 101 and BIO 111. C-BIO 101L. (D)
Surveys the biology of microorganisms and their interactions with human societies, including agriculture and food preparation, industrial biotechnology, global nutrient cycling, and health and disease. Intended for students with little or no previous experience in biology. Does NOT count toward the biology major or minor. (D)
Explores the numerous associations between plants and people, the fundamental importance of plant diversity to humans and their role in the sustainability of the biosphere. This course is intended for students with little or no previous experience in biology and does NOT count toward the major or minor in Biology. (D)
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. These courses are intended for students with little or no previous experience in biology. Does NOT count toward the biology major or minor.
Study of the general principles of living things with focus on the cellular, organismal, and population levels of biological organization, emphasizing the role of heredity and evolution in these systems. Used as equivalent credit for prior college level or transfer course work only. Does NOT count toward the major or minor in biology. Credit not given for both BIO 101 and BIO 111. (D)
Introduction to macromolecules, cells, tissues, and resource acquisition. Both BIO 150 and BIO 150L must be taken to meet the divisional requirement. May not be taken Pass/Fail. (D)
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department. Does NOT count toward the biology major.
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department.
Immersion in bird taxonomy and ecology, conducted in southern Florida during six days of Spring Break. Two on-campus meetings are followed by a trip to top birding sites in North America, viewing over 100 species and covering most of the world's orders of birds. Fees are associated with the required travel component of the course. Interested students are advised to inquire about available scholarships. P-Prerequisite override required.
Provides a hands-on study of organisms in their natural habitats with an emphasis on local North Carolina biodiversity. Well-established sampling methods in field biology are blended with emerging technologies. P- BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Exploration of genetic inheritance, molecular genetics, population genetics, and genomics. Intended as an intermediate course for developing skills towards advanced studies in genetics, evolution, ecology, and molecular biology. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department.
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department.
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department.
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department.
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department.
Seminar and/or lecture courses in selected topics, some involving laboratory instruction. May be repeated if the course title differs. Prerequisites may vary; check with the department.
Introduction to macromolecules with studies of important biophysical tools, such as sedimentation, centrifugation, electrophoresis, X-ray crystallography, absorption and emission light spectroscopy, fluorescence, single molecule techniques and a survey of membrane biophysics. Also listed as PHY 307. P-BIO 150, PHY 113 or 123, PHY 114 or 124, or prerequisite override required.
Analyzes the relationship between organismal form and function using principles from physics and engineering. Solid and fluid mechanics are employed to study design in living systems. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Study of the vertebrate body from an evolutionary, functional, and developmental perspective. Labs emphasize structure and function, primarily through the dissection of representative vertebrates. P-BIO 15 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
An advanced ecology course covering mechanisms that determine the dynamics and distribution of plant and animal assemblages and their responses to and roles in global change. Lectures focus on ecological principles and theory. Lab includes local field trips and discussion of t primary literature. Weekend field trips to Outer Banks and mountains. P- BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L. Combined Bulletin 2026-2027 113
BIO 311Ecology and Conservation Biology of Coral Reefs4
In-depth study of the various biotic and abiotic components that come together to structure ecosystem function and biodiversity at all spatial scales in one of Earth’s most productive and diverse environments, yet one most threatened by human use and climate change. Lab component is a one-week field trip over Spring Break. Fees are associated with the required travel component of the course. Interested students are advised to inquire about available scholarships. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, 160L and prerequisite override required.
BIO 312Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Disease3
Study of the factors influencing the distribution, abundance, and traits of pathogens and parasites. Focus is on using ecological and evolutionary tools to understand the spread and impact of infectious diseases in humans and in natural systems. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Explores the biology of reptiles and amphibians, emphasizing their unique morphological, physiological, behavioral and life-history adaptations, and their evolutionary relationships. The lab consists mostly of field trips. P- BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Study of the evolutionary analysis of biological change in populations, lineages, and the history of Earth. Explores reconstruction of evolutionary histories, adaptation, complexity, and biodiversity through primary literature. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L..
Study of the amount and distribution of genetic variation in populations of organisms and of how processes such as mutation, recombination, and selection affect genetic variation. Lectures introduce theoretical studies and include discussion of molecular and phenotypic variation in natural populations. P-BIO 235. (QR)
Lecture plus lab course emphasizing ecological and evolutionary influences on the physiology, behavior, diversity, and population biology of birds, and case studies in conservation biology. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
A survey of soil structure and biodiversity, with a detailed study of ecological interactions within soil communities and the impact of the soil biota on soil formation, nutrient cycling, and bioremediation within pristine, managed, and damaged soils. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Exploration of the mechanisms of hormonal influences on behavior. P-BIO 150, BIO 150L, BIO 160, BIO 160L AND either BIO 245, HES 350, NEU 200, or PSY 220.
Introduces fungi, their evolution and natural taxonomy; cell and molecular biology; genetics, mating, and development; primary and secondary biochemistry; and their interactions with other organisms and the environment. Lab introduces culturing, microscopic and molecular techniques. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Provides a fundamental understanding of land and resource management. The major focus is on federal oversight and policies but state, local, non-profit, and international aspects are included. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
A molecular study of how prokaryotes obtain the energy and nutrients required to live and reproduce amidst diverse environmental stressors, with an emphasis on structure-function relationships. Topics include molecular bioenergetics, central metabolism, macromolecule biosynthesis, and integration of metabolic events. P-BIO 370/BMB 370/CHM 370 or BIO 332.
Overview of the biology of microorganisms with emphasis on prokaryotes. Topics include cell structure and function, genetics and evolution, metabolic and ecological diversity, and medical microbiology. Lab emphasizes inquiry-based study of environmental microorganisms through a blend of classical and modern techniques. P-CHM 122 (or CHM 123) and BIO 150, BIO 150L, BIO 160, and BIO 160L.
Survey of protozoan, helminth, and arthropod parasites with a focus on cellular biology, life cycles, host-parasite relationships, and public heal implications. Laboratory emphasizes microscopy-based techniques for examining parasite morphology and intracellular structures. P-BIO 265.
A survey of learning, reasoning and social cognition in animals, with an emphasis on species other than widely-used models such as rodents or primates. Classes are initially mostly lecture, and then mostly discussion of empirical studies from the primary literature. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Introduction to the interrelationships among living systems and their environments; structure and dynamics of major ecosystem types; contemporary problems in ecology. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L. (QR)
Introduces the geological, physical, chemical, and biological processes that govern the global oceans and their role in climate change. Lab focus is on tools and research questions pertinent to the field of biological oceanography and includes a five-day field trip over Fall Break. Fees are associated with the required travel component of the course. Interested students are advised to inquire about available scholarships. P-CHM 111 and BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L and prerequisite override required.
Investigates the cellular and molecular basis of neural function, including the molecular basis of neurological disorders. P-BIO 235 or BIO 245 or BIO 265 or NEU 200.
Studies electrical and chemical signaling allowing nerve cell communication as the starting point for investigating molecular, cellular, and systems-level mechanisms underlying the generation and control of behavior. P-BIO 245 or NEU 200.
Laboratory emphasizing electrophysiological techniques with experiments from the cellular to the behavioral level. Students will design and complete their own projects. C-BIO 346.
Provides a fundamental understanding of how plants have adapted to the stresses of their habitats, particularly in harsh or extreme environments such as deserts, the alpine, the arctic tundra, and tropical rain forests. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
BIO 349Tropical Biodiversity of the Amazon and Andes4
th Intensive field course in tropical biodiversity focusing on ecosystems, natural resource management, and conservation. Students will travel to major tropical biomes and vast tropical wildernesses of Andean and Amazonian Peru. Lectures emphasize the basic ecological principles important in each ecosystem. Field-based labs focus on student- designed projects. Offered in the summer only. Fees are associated with the required travel component of the course. Interested students are advised to inquire about available scholarships. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L and prerequisite override required.
Examines the development of neural structures and the plasticity of the mature nervous system. Laboratory covers the basics of embryology, immunocytochemistry, and primary neuron culture. P- BIO 265 or BIO 343 or BIO 346/BIO 346L.
Focuses on the functional organization of the vertebrate central nervous system, including regions, systems, and circuits, with emphasis on application to current topics, neuropathology, and clinical cases. P-BIO 245 or NEU 200 or HES 350.
Introduces the techniques used in the field of neuroscience. Anatomical, physiological, molecular and behavioral methods are covered through lectures, laboratory work, and reading the primary literature. Also offered in Salamanca. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
BIO 356Ecology and Resource Management of Eastern Australia4
Intensive field-oriented course focusing on ecosystems, natural resource management and environmental conservation of eastern Australia. Students travel to major biomes including urban environments, sub- tropical rainforests, semi-arid grasslands, and coral reefs. Laboratories are immersive and field-based. Taught only in summers in Queensland, Australia. Fees are associated with the required travel, room and board. Interested students are advised to inquire about available scholarships. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L and prerequisite override required.
Introduces the fundamentals of biological imaging techniques. Students will explore a variety of microscopic methods as well as image acquisition, post-image processing, and scientific figure creation. Emphasis will be on both a theoretical and practical understanding of microscopic imaging principles. Concepts of experimental design and data critique will be explored through student projects and presentations. P-BIO 265 or NEU 200.
Introduction to sensory physiology and other aspects of sensory systems, e.g. molecular biology and anatomy. Also offered in Salamanca. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Laboratory emphasizing electrophysiological and behavioral techniques to examine sensory systems. Students will design and complete their own projects. C-BIO 363.
Lecture course on classic and recent experiments in cell biology. Analysis and interpretation of experimental data from the primary literature is emphasized. P-BIO 265.
Introduces molecular mechanisms of eukaryotic viral replication, viral-cell interactions, viral disease, and immune responses to viral infections . P- BIO 265 and BIO 370/BMB 370/CHM 370.
Provides hands-on experience with modern molecular virology techniques. Students will learn how to cultivate, quantify, and detect eukaryotic viruses. P or C-BIO 367.
Analysis of molecular and cellular mechanisms that transform normal cells, trigger abnormal proliferation, and lead to tumor formation. Emphasis is on the biological basis of cancer, with some exploration of clinical consequences. P-BIO 235 or BIO 245 or BIO 265.
BIO 370Biochemistry I: Macromolecules and Metabolism3
Introduces principles of biochemistry including structure, function, and biosynthesis of biological molecules, analysis of enzyme function and activity, bioenergetics, and regulation of metabolic pathways. Also listed as BMB 370 and CHM 370. P-any two of the following with associated labs: CHM 122 (or CHM 123), CHM 280 or BIO 265.
Overview of biochemical approaches to study structure and function of macromolecules. Does not count towards the chemistry major with concentration in biochemistry. Also listed as CHM 370L. Credit allowed for CHM 370L/BIO 370L or CHM 371L/BIO 371L/BMB 371L, but not both. P or C-CHM 370/BIO 370/BMB 370.
Emphasizes approaches for isolation and analysis of enzymes. Required for BMB major and the chemistry major with concentration in biochemistry. Recommended for research focused students. Also listed as CHM 371L and BMB 371L. Credit allowed for BIO 370L/CHM 370L, or BMB 371L/BIO 371L/CHM 371L, but not both. P or C-BMB 370/BIO 370/CHM 370.
Presents molecular mechanisms by which stored genetic information is expressed including the mechanisms for and regulation of gene expression, protein synthesis, and genome editing. Emphasizes analysis and interpretation of experimental data from the primary literature. Also listed as BMB 372. P-BIO 265 and BIO 370/BMB 370/CHM 370.
Introduces modern methods of molecular biology to analyze and manipulate expression of genes and function of gene products. Also listed as BMB 372L. P or C-BIO 372/BMB 372 or BMB 373/CHM 373.
Introduces how pharmacological agents affect cellular and molecular functions in the nervous system of normal and disease states. Lecture and case studies will be used to examine topics including drugs targeting mood and emotion, memory and dementia, and movement disorders. Drugs of abuse and the neurological basis of addiction will also be evaluated. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L AND either BIO 265 or NEU 200.
Introduction to inferential methods in biology. Focuses on recognizing, quantifying, and communicating uncertainty in biological data. Topics include summarizing data, making predictions, and testing hypotheses. Special emphasis on communicating statistics to scientific and general audiences. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L. (QR)
Demonstrates the use of the R statistical software for use in the analysis of biological data. Emphasizes appropriate coding practice, scientific reproducibility, data exploration, data analysis, and visualization of data and models. C-BIO 380.
Studies the molecular mechanisms for inheritance of genome modifications. Uses primary literature to explore the environmental and developmental signals that influence epigenetic controls of gene expression and disease. Also listed as BMB 381. P-BIO 265 and BIO 370/ BMB 370/CHM 370.
Provides hands-on experiences with genome editing and molecular genetics to address the function and expression of genes. Also listed as BMB 381L. P or C-BIO 381 or prerequisite override required.
Examines the molecular and biochemical mechanisms by which hormones, neurotransmitters, and other signaling molecules act to change growth, development, and physiological and behavioral responses of organisms with a focus on discussion of primary literature. Also listed as BMB 382. P-BIO 265 and BIO 370/BMB 370/CHM 370.
Examines the architecture, expression, and evolution of genomes. Uses current primary literature to examine the functional and evolutionary dynamics of genomes and the modern analytic techniques used to investigate genome-wide phenomena. Also listed as BMB 383. P-BIO 235.
Introduction to computational approaches essential to modern biological inquiry. Approaches may include large biological dataset analyses, sequence similarity and motif searches, and analysis of high-throughput genomic technologies. Emphasizes interdisciplinary interaction and communication. Credit not allowed for both BIO 385 and CSC 385 or PHY 385. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L (and CSC 201 if taken as
Study of modern human population divergence from a genomic perspective, focusing on the role of parasites in driving evolutionary adaptations. Explores the intersection of genetic diversity, health and disease in humans of the African diaspora. P-BIO 265. (SWC)
Introduction of concepts and development of skills for comprehension of systems biology problems, including both biological and computational aspects. Topics may include genome-wide transcriptomic analysis, protein interaction networks, large-scale proteomics experiments, and computational approaches for modeling, storing, and analyzing the resulting data sets. Emphasizes interdisciplinary interaction and communication. Credit not allowed for both BIO 387 and CSC 387. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L (and CSC 201 or 221 if taken as
Hybrid lecture/laboratory course gives students a hands-on introduction to a diverse array of techniques commonly used in molecular genetics laboratories. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, and BIO 160L.
Introduces the technology and techniques of research. Working under the supervision of a faculty member or research staff, students will obtain experience in experimental design and analysis. Credit not given for both BIO 390 and BIO 391. Satisfies the research requirement for the BA and BS degrees. Pass/Fail only. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, 160L, and prerequisite override required.
Students participate in a research project involving collection or analysis of data to investigate a defined research question. Students are required to submit a written paper or poster documenting research progress. The same numbered course cannot be repeated. Subsequent courses must be taken in consecutive order. Credit not given for both BIO 390 and
Continuation of research beyond BIO 391. Students are required to submit a written paper or poster documenting research progress. The same numbered course cannot be repeated. Pass/Fail option. P-BIO 390 or BIO 391 and prerequisite override required.
Continuation of research beyond BIO 392. Students are required to submit a written paper or poster documenting research progress. The same numbered course cannot be repeated. Pass/Fail option. P-BIO 392 and prerequisite override required.
Continuation of research beyond BIO 393. Students are required to submit a written paper or poster documenting research progress. The same numbered course cannot be repeated. Pass/Fail option. P-BIO 393 and prerequisite override required.
Students explore career opportunities in biology-related fields or experiences. Students are required to submit a written paper or poster describing research internship or experience to their advisor. Plans must be approved in advance by the advisor. Course can be repeated for credit, but only 4 total hours will count toward the BA BIO major. Does not count toward the BS BIO major or the BIO minor. Pass/Fail only. P-BIO 150, 150L, 160, 160L and prerequisite override required.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Type
course
Repeatable
can be repeated for credit, but only 4 total hours will count toward the BA BIO major.
Introduction to the structure, dynamic behavior, and function of DNA and proteins, and a survey of membrane biophysics. The physical principles of structure determination by X-ray, NMR, and optical methods are emphasized.
Analyzes the relationship between organismal form and function using principles from physics and engineering. Solid and fluid mechanics are employed to study design in living systems.
Study of the vertebrate body from an evolutionary, functional, and development perspective. Labs emphasize structure and function, primarily through the dissection of representative vertebrates.
An advanced ecology course covering mechanisms that determine the dynamics and distribution of plant and animal assemblages and their responses to and roles in global change. Lectures focus on ecological principles and theory. Lab includes local field trips and discussion of the primary literature. Weekend field trips to Outer Banks and mountains.
BIO 611Ecology and Conservation Biology of Coral Reefs4
In-depth study of the various biotic and abiotic components that come together to structure ecosystem function and biodiversity at all spatial scales in one of Earth's most productive and diverse environments, yet one most threatened by human use and climate change. Lab component is a one-week field trip over Spring Break.
Lecture course on the biology of reptiles and amphibians, emphasizing the unique morphological, physiological, and behavorial adaptations of both groups, and their evolutionary histories and relationships. Two local field trips are planned.
Study of the evolutionary analysis of biological change in populations, lineages, and the history of Earth. Explores reconstruction of evolutionary histories, adaptation, complexity, and biodiversity through primary literature.
Study of the amount and distribution of genetic variation in populations of organisms, and of how processes such as mutation, recombination, and selection affect genetic variation. Lectures present both an introduction to theoretical studies and discussion of molecular and phenotypic variation in natural populations.
Lecture plus lab course emphasizing ecological and evolutionary influences on the physiology, behavior, diversity, and population biology of birds, and case studies in conservation biology.
Examines the growth, development, and physiological processes of plants. The control of these processes is examined on genetic, biochemical, and whole plant levels.
A survey of soil structure and biodiversity, with a detailed study of ecological interactions within soil communities and the impact of the soil biota on soil formation, nutrient cycling, and bioremediation within pristine, managed, and damaged soils.
Introduces fungi, their evolution and natural taxonomy; cell and molecular biology; genetics, mating and development; primary and secondary biochemistry; and their interactions with other organisms and the environment. Lab introduces culturing, microscopic and molecular techniques.
Provides a fundamental understanding of land and resource management. The major focus is on federal oversight and policies but state, local, non-profit, and international aspects are included.
Structure, function, and taxonomy of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria. Topics include microbial ecology, industrial microbiology, and medical microbiology. Lab emphasizes microbial diversity through characterizations of isolates from nature.
Survey of protozoan, helminth, and arthropod parasites with a focus on cellular biology, life cycles, host-parasite relationships, and public health implications. Laboratory emphasizes microscropy-based techniques for examining parasite morphology and intracellular structures.
A survey of learning, reasoning and social cognition in animals, with an emphasis on species other than widely-used models such as rodents or primates. Classes are initially mostly lecture, and then mostly discussion of empirical studies from the primary literature.
Introduces the geological, physical, chemical, and biological processes that govern the global oceans and their role in climate change. Lab focus is on tools and research questions pertinent to the field of biological oceanography.
Laboratory emphasizing electrophysiological techniques with experiments from the cellular to the behavioral level. Students will design and complete their own projects. P or C-BIO 646.
Provides a fundamental understanding of how plants have adapted to the stresses of their habits, particularly in harsh or extreme environments such as deserts, the alpine, the arctic tundra, and tropical rain forests.
BIO 649Tropical Biodiversity of the Amazon and Andes4
Intensive field course in tropical biodiversity focusing on ecosystems, natural resource management, and conversation. Students will travel to major tropical biomes in the vast tropical wildernesses of Andean and Amazonian Peru. Lectures emphasize the basic ecological principles important in each ecosystem. Field-based labs focus on student- designed projects. Offered in the summer only. POI required.
Examines the development of neural structures and the plasticity of the mature nervous system. Laboratory covers the basics of embryology, immunocytochemistry, and primary neuron culture.
An introduction to the gross and cellular anatomical organization of the vertebrate central nervous system. Attention is given to relating structure to function, the anatomical basis of neuropathologies, and modern approaches in neuroanatomy and imaging.
BIO 656Ecology and Resource Management of Southeast Australia. (4
h) Intensive field-oriented course focusing on ecosystems, natural resource management and enviromental conservation of southeastern Australia. Students travel to major biomes including sub-tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and the Australian urban environment. Labs are field-based with some consisting of study-designed field projects. Taught only in summers in Australia.
Lecture course that examines a variety of sensory systems. Emphasis is on sensory physiology, although other aspects of sensory systems, e.g. molecular biology and anatomy, are also covered.
Laboratory emphasizing electrophysiological and behavioral techniques to examine sensory systems. Students will design and complete their own projects. P or C-BIO 663.
Lecture and lab course on recent advances in cell biology. Lectures emphasize analysis and interpretation of experimental data in the primary literature, focusing on topics such as the large scale architecture of the cell, targeting of macromolecules, cell-cell communication, cell signaling, and the control of cell division. The labs introduce basic techniques in cell biology and leads to an independent project.
Designed to introduce students to viruses, viral/host interactions, pathogenicity, methods of control and their use in molecular biology, including gene therapy.
Analysis of molecular and cellular mechanisms that transform normal cells, trigger abnormal proliferation, and lead to tumor formation. Emphasis is on the biological basis of cancer, with some exploration of clinical and social consequences.
Overview of biochemical approaches to study structure and function of macromolecules. Cannot receive credit for both BiO 670L and 671L. P or C-BIO 670.
Presents molecular mechanisms by which stored genetic information is expressed including the mechanisms for and regulation of gene expression, protein synthesis, and genome editing. Emphasizes analysis and interpretation of experimental data from the primary literature.
An introduction to how pharmacological agents affect cellular and molecular functions in the nervous system of normal and disease states. Lecture and case studies will be used to examine topics including drugs targeting mood and emotion, memory and dementia, and movement disorders. Drugs of abuse and the neurological basis of addiction will also be evaluated.
BIO 679Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)4
Lecture and laboratory course that introduces the concepts and uses of GIS as a mapping and analytical tool. Lectures cover the history of GIS, GIS data structures and sources of data, map projections, GIS tools, applications, and resources. Exercises include example of GIS applications in environmental modeling, socio-demographic change and site suitability analyses.
Introduction to inferential methods in biology. Focuses on recognizing, quantifying, and communicating uncertainty in biological data. Topics include summarizing data, making predictions, and testing hypotheses. Special emphasis on communicating statistics to scientific and general audiences.
Studies the molecular mechanisms for inheritance of genome modifications. Uses primary literature to explore the environmental and developmental signals that influence epigenetic controls of gene expression and disease.
Examines the molecular and biochemical mechanisms by which hormones, neurotransmitters, and other signaling molecules act to change growth, development, and physiological and behavioral responses of organisms with a focus on discussion of primary literature.
Examines the architecture, expression, and evolution of genomes. Uses current primary literature to examine the functional and evolutionary dynamics of genomes and the modern analytic techniques used to investigate genome-wide phenomena.
Introduction to bioinformatics and computing techniques essential to current biomedical research. Primary focus is gene and protein sequence and protein structure databases, and algorithms for sequence and structure analysis. Emphasizes interdisciplinary interaction and communication. Also listed as CSC 685 and PHY 685.
Study of modern human population divergence from a genomic perspective, focusing on the role of parasites in driving evolutionary adaptations. Explores the intersection of genetic diversity, health and disease in humans of the African diaspora.
Introduction of concepts and development of skills for comprehension of systems biology problems, including both biological and computational aspects. Topics may include genome-wide transcriptomic analysis, protein interaction networks, large-scale proteomics experiments, and computational approaches for modeling, storing, and analyzing the resulting data sets. Emphasizes interdisciplinary interaction and communication.
Hybrid lecture/laboratory course gives students a hands-on introduction to a diverse array of techniques commonly used in molecular genetics laboratories.
Focuses on the mechanisms of inter- and intra-cellular communications. Topics range from receptors to signaling molecules to physiological responses. Largely based on the primary literature and requires student presentation of primary research articles.
Seminar course examining the molecular, biochemical, and cellular mechanisms of animal and/or plant development. Relevant topics selected from the current literature are discussed in lecture and presentation formats.
Seminar covers gene expression in eukaryotic and prokaryotic eystems. Topics range from transcription to translation to other aspects of gene regulation. Emphasis is on the experimental basis of understanding the mechanisms of gene expression. Students present, in seminar format, appropriate papers from literature. All students participate in discussion and evaluation of presentations.
Inquiry into the fundamentals of scientific thought and practice in the biological sciences. Course will emphasize key biological theories and contemporary techniques in the context of current literature. Each semester will be based on three thematic areas chosen by a committee of faculty and students to encompass a breadth of areas of biological knowledge and integrate biological subdisciplines.
Inquiry into the fundamentals of scientific thought and practice in the biological sciences. Course will emphasize key biological theories and contemporary techniques in the context of current literature. Each semester will be based on three thematic areas chosen by a committee of faculty and students to encompass a breadth of areas of biological knowledge and integrate biological subdisciplines.
Covers various aspects of plant genetics in a seminar format. Topics range from classical Mendelian genetics to genomics and bioinformatics, depending on the interests of the students. Students present the results, conclusions, and significance of appropriate papers from the literature. All students participate in discussion and evaluation of presentation.
Covers various aspects of plant physiology and hormones in a seminar format. Topics range from auxin transport to properties of light within the leaf. Students present the results, conclusions, and significance of appropriate papers from the literature. All students participate in discussion and evaluation of presentations.
Covers various aspects of plant evolution in a seminar format. Topics range from problems in phylogeny reconstruction and patterns of diversity to major evolutionary innovations in various plant groups. Students present the results, conclusions, and significance of appropriate papers from the literature. All students participate in discussion and evaluation of presentations.
Covers various aspects of plant ecology in a seminar format. Topics vary depending on graduate student interest. Students present the results, conclusions, and significance of appropriate papers from the literature. All students participate in discussion and evaluation of presentations.
Inquiry into the fundamental concepts in genetic evolution through discussion of foundational primary literature. Topics explored include population genetic processes, speciation and extinction.
Introduction to evolutionary/ecological physiology, with emphasis on the interactions between organisms and major abiotic factors of the environment including water balance-hydration, gaseous exchange-respiration, temperature tolerance-thermal physiology.
Offers students a framework for understanding the use of mathematics in both biological theory and empirical research. Emphasis is on practical applications of mathematical techniques, and learning by doing. A central goal is to give students tools to use in their own research. Topics covered include continuous and discrete population models, matrix models, stochastic models, life-history theory, and fitting models for data. Mathematical skills are taught and refreshed, but knowledge of basic calculus is required.
A graduate seminar focusing on understanding the seminal developments in the field of ecology and then tracing their intellectual impacts on the modern literature.
An introduction to the various types of light, confocal, and electron microscopy. Students will learn technical and theoretical aspects of microscopy, methods of sample preparation, digital image acquisition and analysis and the preparation of publicaion quality images. The course will emphasize practical applications of microscopy, microscopy experimental design, and hands-on use of microscopes and digital imaging systems. Students will be expected to design and conduct a microscopy project and present their results to the class. Additionally, students will be expected to participate in class discussions regarding newly emerging microscopy techniques in various biological disciplines.
Covers current research in the field of ecology with a focus at the community level. Experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation are emphasized.
Provides an introduction to statistical modeling and data management in the R computer language. The course objectives are to introduce student to: (i) methodologies for the design and analysis of ecological and organismal experiments, (ii) programming with an emphasis on good coding and data management habits, and (iii) producing figures and reproducible workflows for publication.
BIO 783Teaching Skills and Instructional Development3
Introduction to teaching college-level science courses. Emphasis is on: defining and achieving realistic course goals; mechanics of selecting, developing and refining topics for lecture or laboratory; effective presentation strategies; and creating an active learning environment. Students develop a teaching portfolio containing course syllabi, lecture outlines, and student-ready laboratory materials. Format combines didactic lectures, individual projects, and group discussions and critiques. Course meets for two, 2-hour periods each week.
BIO 785Teacher-Scholar Professional Development I1
Training in professional skills for early-career biological scientists through interactive discussion and exercises. Topics include scientific ethics and professional practices, scientific publishing, and scientific communication.
BIO 786Teacher-Scholar Professional Development II1
Training in professional skills for early-career biological scientists through interactive discussion and exercises. Topics include grant preparation and submission, professional bias and discrimination in the sciences, career paths, and job interviewing.
Introduction to scientific presentation skills through active participation in scientific seminars and symposiums, discussion, and exercises. May be repeated for credit.
Program Director Ke Reid Chair Erik C. Johnson Reynolds Professor Susan E. Fahrbach Andrew Sabin Family Foundation Presidential Chair in Conservation Biology Miles R. Silman Charles M. Allen Professor of Biology Gloria K. Muday Professors T. Michael Anderson, Miriam A. Ashley-Ross, Sarah M. Esstman, Susan E. Fahrbach, Kenneth T. Kishida, Clifford W. Zeyl Associate Professors Regina J. Cordy, Sheri A. Floge, Ke Reid, Brian W. Tague Assistant Professors Arkadpita Bakshi, Josh Currie, Sheri A. Floge, Nicholas Kortessis, Christopher M. Jernigan, Christopher P. Krieg, Elsie H. Shogren, Sarah Westrick, Aoshu Zhong Teaching Professors A. Daniel Johnson, Anna Kate Lack Associate Teaching Professors Diana R. Arnett Assistant Teaching Professors Andrew St. James, Anna Parker, Michael Rizzo 2026-2027 Bulletin Search Bulletin Search The University Undergraduate The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Calendars Procedures Student Wellness Requirements for Degrees Programs Degree Programs Bioethics (BIE) Biology (BIO) Biology, MS Biology, PhD Chemistry (CHM) Communication (COM) Computer Science (CSC) Counseling (CNS) Documentary Film Program (DOC) Education (EDU) English (ENG) Health and Exercise Science (HES) Liberal Arts Studies (LBS) Mathematics (MTH) Physics (PHY) Psychology (PSY) Quantum Information Sciences (QIS) Statistics (STA) Sustainability (SUS) Dual Degrees Certificates Concentrations Courses A-Z Governing and Advisory Boards Graduate Council and Faculty The Administration The School of Divinity The School of Professional Studies Search Programs Search Courses Courses A-Z Archive Print Options Print this page Send this page to the printer. Download this pageSave this page as a PDF.Undergraduate CatalogA PDF of the entire Undergraduate catalog.Graduate CatalogA PDF of the entire Graduate catalog.Divinity CatalogA PDF of the entire School of Divinity catalog.Professional Studies CatalogA PDF of the entire Professional Studies catalog.Download the bulletinSave the entire bulletin as a PDF. Back to Top
