144 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 100Applied Cells, Genetics & Physiology3.0
This course is designed to provide a topical and interactive introduction to biology for non-majors. Students will learn how trillions of tiny cells of our bodies work together in organ systems to use food for energy, to keep us alive, moving and healthy, and how information passes to subsequent generations. This course is identical to BIO 107.
BIO 101Applied Biological Diversity, Ecology & Evolution3.0
An interactive course for the non-major that discusses the variety of living things and how we ended up with them and what makes them unique. This course also explores how living things affect each other and the world as well as the impacts that humans have on the living world. This course is identical to BIO 109.
This course is designed to provide a topical and interactive introduction to biology for non-majors. Students will learn how trillions of tiny cells of our bodies work together in organ systems to use food for energy, to keep us alive, moving and healthy, and how information passes to subsequent generations. This course is identical to BIO 100.
BIO 108Cells, Genetics and Physiology Laboratory1.0
This course is designed to be a companion course to the BIO 107 lecture. Labs are focused on providing students with a hands-on approach to science. Topics include how cells generate energy from food, how certain characteristics are genetically encoded and the physiology of human systems and diseases.
BIO 109Biological Diversity, Ecology & Evolution3.0
An interactive course for the non-major that discusses the variety of living things and how we ended up with them and what makes them unique. This course also explores how living things affect each other and the world as well as the impacts that humans have on the living world. This course is identical to BIO 101.
BIO 110Biological Diversity, Ecology and Evolution Laboratory1.0
A companion course to BIO 109 that provides a hands on exploration of the diversity of life including microbes, plants and animals as well as the processes that give rise to this diversity. The labs also provide practical exploration of the impacts of human beings on the planet.
This inquiry based open enrollment course is designed to provide a topical and interactive exposure to the human health hazards associated with global climate change. Despite the burden of evidence of global climate change, it is not uncommon for the members of the general public to express apathy because the consequences seem so far removed in distance and time. The goal of this course is to bring climate change closer to home through a discussion of the imminent threat posed to human health.
How Your body Works-or Not is geared for non-major students hoping to explore the workings of their bodies. Students will explore why we evolved to have various organ systems, and how some systems accomplish their roles. We will explore how these systems can malfunction or fail, resulting in disease.
This course provides an opportunity for students with little or no biology background to learn about cancer. Students can expect to learn what cancer is from a biological perspective, and how it is caused and treated. Students will also gain a basic understanding of how tumors form, and metastasize.
This supplemental discovery based lab course has been designed to discover and analyze new bacteriophage viruses. Students will isolate unique bacteriophages, annotate the genes of selected bacteriophage genomes, and develop independent projects using hypothesis driven experimental planning.
An introduction to the concepts of cell and function, cell and reproduction, cell communication, genetic inheritance, and population genetics. The relevance of genetics to society and ethical issues are included.
In this course, students will design and perform independent research projects in order to learn more about bacteriophages. Students can work independently or in groups to develop a research question and hypothesis, and to perform either wet-lab experiments or bioinformatics analysis to draw conclusions about a novel aspect of bacteriophage biology. At the end of this course, students will present their results in the form of a poster presentation.
The course provides students with a basic understanding of the smallest unit of life, the cell, how cells function and reproduce to make new cells and gametes, and how cells communicate with one another within tissues and organs. The course describes the basics of energy capture and utilization. It will introduce students to molecular mechanisms of gene expression and perpetuation and inheritance of cellular information. This course has a lecture and recitation component.
Students will learn about evolution, genetic inheritance (including Mendelian and non-Mendelian patterns of inheritance), and the mechanisms of how populations and species change over time, highlighting key evolutionary events. We will also explore the development of individual organisms, connecting developmental processes with evolutionary trends. This course has a lecture and recitation component.
The course will survey physiological systems, including the respiratory, circulatory, homeostatic, excretory, digestive, immune, and reproductive systems in animals. In addition, students will learn about the relationships between organisms and the environment, including how humans impact ecosystems and the biosphere. This course has a lecture and recitation component.
This lab course provides students with the opportunity to do hands-on experimentation and data analyses to help develop a basic understanding of the smallest unit of life, cells, how cells function and reproduce to make new cells and gametes, and how cells communicate with one another within tissues and organs.
This lab course provides students with the opportunity to learn laboratory techniques to explore genetic and evolutionary concepts. Students will have the opportunity to conduct experiments using genetic techniques while developing their scientific skills in data interpretation and critical thinking. Computer simulations and data analysis will also allow students to apply their understanding of evolutionary concepts to real data.
This lab course will survey anatomical systems in different classes of animals in order to compare the ways in which these animals obtain oxygen and other nutrients from the environment, transport these materials throughout the body, maintain homeostasis, and collect and eliminate waste products. Additionally, the course will emphasize relationships between living organisms and their environments. Lab exercises in this course will explore anatomical systems, demonstrate major themes in ecology, and model how humans impact ecosystems.
Introduces essential biological concepts to engineering students. Content covers five core topics: cells, genetics, evolution, ecology and physiology with application to societal concerns about biotechnology, health, conservation biodiversity and bioethics. Evolution will be woven throughout the course as a unifying theme in understanding all aspects of biology.
Drexel University is one of over 100 institutions associated with the Science Education Alliance – Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) program funded through the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). This means that in the Honors section of Introductory Biology, we have a new scientific discovery-driven research based lab component to discover and analyze new bacteriophage viruses. There are approximately 1031 bacteriophages in the world and we can help understand their evolution, their diversity, and their functional roles (medical, environmental, ecological) through contributing the data on the phage we discover to this growing database. This laboratory course is part of a sequence of three introductory courses.
This course will allow students to experience scientific discovery-driven research, using bioinformatics to annotate bacteriophage genomes. Student will examine phage genomes to identify gene start sites, assign gene functions to individual phages. Phage genomes will be compared to investigate shared and unique regions of the genomes and shared and unique gene functions. As a result of this course, the bacteriophage annotations will be made available through the open access database GenBank. This laboratory course is part of a sequence of three introductory courses.
In this course students will develop and implement hypothesis-driven experimental plans, to expand our knowledge of bacteriophages. In groups students will work collaboratively in lab to collecting data, interpreting results and drawing conclusions. The projects will be presented at the end of term to other students in the form of a poster presentation. This laboratory course is part of a sequence of three introductory courses.
In this course students will perform computer simulations of laboratory exercises related to photosynthesis, enzyme activity and kinetics, the cardiovascular, muscle and bone systems, regulation of human organ systems as well as plant growth and development.
In this course students will perform computer simulations of laboratory exercises related to cell division, mendelian genetics, DNA replication, translation and mutations. They will work with simulated microscopes to observe viral and microbial specimens. Additionally, students will learn and simulate biotechnology techniques such as DNA fingerprinting.
This course is designed to develop and enhance student mentorship and leadership skills, emphasizing communication among undergraduate peers in STEM disciplines. The course will focus on the mentor-mentee relationship, professionalism, respect for diversity, and mentorship skill development.
Connections in Biology is an open enrollment course which will give students the opportunity to make exactly that: connections. Building upon a new theme in biology each week, students will connect that material to their current Philadelphia community as well as to their future professional and personal pursuits. The course is designed on the Community Based Learning platform (CBL) and is scheduled to meet twice a week: one meeting will be a formal lecture on campus and one meeting will be at a partnered middle school with the instructor and Drexel students leading an 9 week after school science club. Students will gain volunteer hours, get an introduction to civic engagement, benefit from community based learning practices and connect their Drexel course material to the bigger picture in their lives.
Intensive survey of the basic physiological mechanisms of cellular and human electrophysiology and the physiology of the muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and gastrointestinal systems.
Laboratory course in human physiology. Designed to accompany BIO 201 and 203 Human Physiology I and II. Uses simulation, experimenters and data acquisition techniques to provide practical experience in the design and execution of physiological experiments and analysis of physiological data. Some or all pre-requisites may be taken as either a pre-requisite or co-requisite. Please see the department for more information.
Intensive survey of the control mechanisms of cellular and human physiology including introductions to control theory, neurophysiology, endocrine control, and control mechanisms in locomotion, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, acid/base, gastrointestinal, and reproductive physiology.
The Privilege of Aging is a Hybrid Community-Based Course that is open to students that have completed BIO 122. Aging is often thought of as a negative process, however there are important benefits that are largely uncelebrated. Students in this course will explore the privilege of aging and ways to do it well with senior members of the Philadelphia community. There will be 2 class meetings each week, one on campus and one at a designated senior citizen facility. In addition to the academic underpinnings of the biology of aging, the course will provide the students with intergenerational interactions, as well as opportunities to connect the experience with their academic path at Drexel and their future professional plans.
The aim of this course is to allow students to apply knowledge from biology courses to understand important articles from the frontiers of biology research, in order to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. Students will learn to read primary research, to think critically about research and interpret data.
In this course, students will further develop and practice skills introduced in the Applications in Biology I course by reading and interpreting research from primary articles. This will include historical experiments and controversial research. This will help students develop critical thinking, scientific reasoning and problem solving skills.
BIO 209Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology I4.0
In this course, students will cover essential topics in cell, molecular, and developmental biology. Topics, such as protein structure function relationships, enzymes, structural & functional properties of nucleic acids, transcription & translation, regulation of gene expression, eukaryotic cell structure, cell membranes and membrane transport. Commonly used techniques in biochemistry, molecular & cellular biology will be discussed.
BIO 211Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology II4.0
In this course, students will learn about molecular, cellular and developmental biology at a higher level than in introductory coursework. This second course in the sequence will focus on cell biological processes such as: vesicular trafficking, signaling, cytoskeletal dynamics, cell cycle, cell death, tissue organization, stem cells and development. At the end of this course, students should have a strong foundation in cell and developmental biology.
Covers the use of recombinant DNA techniques in biotechnology. Explores the many uses of biotechnology in the biological, agricultural and medical field. Also covers the social, ethical and environmental issues involved in this discipline.
In this course, you will be introduced to the basics of performing directed research in Drosophila genetics and neurobiology. This research will be informed by its relevance to disease. You will be working on one of a variety of diseases that is related to neurodevelopmental and/or neurodegenerative diseases. Diseases include (but are not limited to) CHARGE syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, Pitt-Hopkins disease, and schizophrenia. In this course, you will be testing for potential genetic modifiers and/or drugs that modify disease phenotypes associated with an established models of these diseases.
The course familiarizes students with the basic fundamentals and principles of cell biology. Topics include protein and enzymes as metabolic facilitators, the source and function of cellular energy, cell structure and function, cellular protein transport, cell communication, cell cycle control, apoptosis, and cell differentiation.
A course designed to introduce students to the lab techniques used by cell biologists. The lab is project-based focusing on various assays to assess cell viability/survival and fluorescence microscopy is used for cell structure and their organelles, apoptosis, cytoskeletal structure, muscle contraction and cell motility. Other topics include protein separation and quantification, and gel electrophoresis. Analytical thinking and data analysis are emphasized to help foster the development of a project built on multiple experiments.
The course is designed to familiarize students with the details and concepts revolving around molecular biology's "central dogma." Specifically the chemical nature of DNA and RNA, the molecular structure of DNA and chromosomes, the definition of a gene, how DNA is replicated, and how genes are expresses and regulated.
Designed to familiarize student with laboratory techniques utilized in molecular biology, specifically DNA isolation, characterization, and manipulation. Students work in teams to collect and analyze data and explain results in laboratory reports. Weekly recitations preview and review theory and techniques used in the lab. Some or all pre-requisites may be taken as either a pre-requisite or co-requisite. Please see the department for more information.
Covers morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics of bacteria, fungi, algae, and protozoa, and viruses. Introduces the principles of microbial genetics, disease, and control of microorganisms. This course is identical to BIO 221.
Covers morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa, and viruses. Introduces the principles of microbial genetics, disease, and control of microorganisms.
An introduction to microbiological techniques, and culture of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Includes sterile techniques, and use of specialized microscopic techniques. Classical and molecular techniques of microbial identification are also covered.
BIO 224Form, Function & Evolution of Vertebrates4.0
This course is an introduction to principles of organismal biology from the perspective of form, function and evolution of fish, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. Many biological principles are well known in this group of animals. Data from areas as diverse as paleontology, ecology and molecular biology will be presented.
BIO 225Vertebrate Biology and Evolution Laboratory2.0
A hands-on laboratory course that complements BIO 224: Form, Function & Evolution of Vertebrates. Students use the comparative approach to learn about the anatomy, physiology and evolution of vertebrates. Laboratory work will be on campus and in the field trips to observe vertebrates in nature.
An introduction to microbiology for students in the health professions. Covers the diversity of microorganisms, their growth and how to control them. An introduction to the principles of disease and pathogenicity, host interaction and immunological response. Laboratories focus on the basic techniques to culture and student microorganisms.
This course illustrates the importance and utility of evolutionary perspectives on various topics related to human health. In addition to the "how" questions, this course also introduces the "why" questions. Various evolutionary hypotheses are examined. Arguments for and counter-arguments against each hypothesis are presented to foster understanding of each topic. Selected topics include infectious diseases, pathogen virulence, allergies/asthma, mental health/addiction, genetic disorders, diseases of civilization, sex, pregnancy, aging, and public health concerns.
The focus of this course is the process of research and inquiry that leads to the isolation, characterization and identification of potential antibiotic producing microbial strains and species from soil. Students will work in small groups to collaboratively design and carry out their own experiments that will isolate these microorganisms. During this course, you will learn about the structure, metabolism, nutrition, and diversity of soil microorganisms.
SEA-GENES is a lab developed by HHMI where students participate in a term-long research project. Students generate expression libraries for phage genes, test for the ability of phage gene products to modulate bacterial host phenotypes, and screen phage gene products against the bacterial host proteome to identify putative host targets. This course is an elective lab course designed to give students an opportunity to engage in investigative research involving bacteriophage viruses.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
Can be repeated 1 times for 4 credits Prerequisites: BIO 132 [Min Grade: D]
Surveys Mendelian, microbial, molecular, and population genetics. Discusses model systems and analytical methods used by geneticists to understand gene functions at cellular, organismal, and population levels.
Provides comparative study of the major vertebrate groups, relationships between physiology and organismal structure, evolutionary history, comparative anatomy, and development.
A hands-on laboratory course that complements BIO 256: Vertebrate Morphology and Physiology. Students will use comparative dissections of representative vertebrates to understand the anatomy and evolution of major vertebrate groups.
This course explores the relation between ancient/cultural botanical knowledge and its current application in modern pharmacology and alternative forms of medicine. It provides an interdisciplinary approach to the study of plants for food, medicine, stimulation, religious rituals and death.
This course focuses on the biological responses to the physical and psychological stress, discussing in turn stress responses in various organ systems. Emphasis is given to the analysis and evaluation of conflicting biological evidence on stress effects.
This course will introduce students to the fascinating subject of forensic science, and specifically the role that biology can play in solving crimes. Topics being covered will include examining a crime scene, and the analysis of biological materials such as fingerprints, blood, plant material and human remains. During the course students will have to play the role of a forensic scientist, applying the knowledge that they will learn each week to see if they can determine who committed the crime. Case studies from real crimes will also be used to illustrate the points being made.
In this online course students will study forensic toxicology, the study of chemicals- drugs, alcohol and poisons (to name a few), in relation to legal cases. These cases may involve identification of a powder, or examination of an envelope for traces of poisons, or the analysis of a blood samples to identify and quantify the presence of a substance which may have results in intoxication or even death.
The main intent of this STEM Connections Course is for Drexel students and the Robeson students with whom we will be partnering to experience the Scientific Method. Both sets of students, Drexel and high school partners, will be instructed with active learning pedagogical methodologies to enhance student understanding. Students in both cohorts will learn to apply the scientific method to questions about plants. This course is a Community-Based Learning Course.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
Can be repeated multiple times for credit Prerequisites: BIO 100 [Min Grade: D] or BIO 101 [Min Grade: D] or BIO 107 [Min Grade: D] or BIO 108 [Min Grade: D] or BIO 122 [Min G
Covers biochemical techniques ranging from basic laboratory preparatory work such as making solutions to the measurement of enzyme kinetics and substrate specificity.
The goal of this hands-on course is to help students learn about the process of science, develop their identity as scientists, and gain critical research skills. Students in this course will directly contribute to ongoing research projects in evolutionary genomics. The course will cover key concepts and methods in the field, including handling and analyzing next-generation sequence data, and students will apply those to independently driven group projects. In addition, the course will engage students in science communication, including a poster presentation. This course will also challenge students to identify relationships between science and society.
Covers bioenergetics and metabolism; enzymes, substrates, products, coenzymes, transporters, pathways (catabolic and anabolic for carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides). Intracellular regulation, intercellular regulation, and how all this serves to meet the need of the cell and organism.
In this course, students will apply their studies of chemistry and biology to understand how drugs: are designed, affect the body, and are affected by the body. Students can expect to learn the fundamentals of pharmacology, and to discuss current topics and novel approaches being used to design new therapeutics.
In this course, students will apply their studies of cell and molecular biology to understand cancer pathology. Starting with a fundamental knowledge of normal cellular processes, students will learn how normal processes go awry in tumor development and metastasis, and the current approaches being used to develop new cancer therapeutics.
Covers mechanisms of pathogenesis in microbial disease: transmission, prevention, public health. Also covers molecular basis of microbial pathogenesis.
Parasitology explores the most predominant lifestyle on earth, parasitism. Students will learn how parasites invade and exploit their hosts, the resultant damage to the hosts, and the mechanisms by which hosts defend and protect themselves from these invaders.
We will be developing and progressing molecular and cellular projects to study cellular function in Dictyostelium discoideum as a model to investigate human cellular dysfunction. This exploratory and experimental course is designed to provide opportunities for students to experience authentic laboratory investigation in the context of a course which runs like a research group. Projects progress from term to term so students are welcome to continue in subsequent terms to further progress their projects or switch to other ongoing projects.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Repeatable
Can be repeated multiple times for credit Prerequisites: BIO 219 [Min Grade: D] (Can be taken Concurrently) or BIO 209 [Min Grade: D]
This course uses a combination of lecture and hands-on exercises to develop computational, algorithmic, and database navigation skills used in the analysis of genes and genomes. Topics include genomic databases, genome assembly and annotation, sequence alignment, phylogenetics, and comparative genomics.
This course uses a combination of lecture and hands-on exercises to develop programming and software skills used in the study of functional genomics. Topics include genetics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics.
In this course, students develop and apply computational skills in bioinformatics to address a quarter-long research project. Topics generally focus on the ecology and evolution of microbes, which have become much easier to study thanks to the advent of molecular tools and software for the analysis of DNA sequences.
This course will focus on recent and important topics relevant to stem cell research and development. Topics will include nuclear reprogramming and epigenetics, environmental influences on stem cell differentiation, stem cells and cancer, stem-cell-based therapies for heart and neurodegenerative disorders, stem cells and ageing, and politics of stem cell research.
This courses provides an introduction to the biological basis of human and animal behavior. This course will emphasize fundamental aspects of neuroscience including how individual neurons respond to stimuli, how these neurons connect to form circuits during development, and how ensembles of neurons work together to mediate simple tasks.
This course provides an introduction to the biological basis of human and animal behavior. This course will emphasize fundamental aspects of neuroscience with a focus on the principles of how circuits function in the nervous system. Topics covered will include how neural circuits mediate sensory perception, drive behavioral output, and generate thoughts and emotions.
This course is designed to give students an understanding of the established fundamentals and principles of histology. Histology lies at the interface between cell biology and physiology: here we examine how cells work together as tissues and organs to create a functional pump (the heart), filters (the kidneys), and bellows (the lungs). While considerable focus will be on the structural details of select systems, there are recurring patterns that emerge in tissue construction. These patterns reflect regional variations in the functional role of the assembled tissue; studying these principles offers us a view of how small differences in cell number, type, and interaction can lead to the wide variety of tissue/organ properties seen in the human body.
Covers molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms underlying development of animals from gametes to adults. Covers the major stages and selected aspects of vertebrate development in importance animal model systems. Particular focus in on the importance of differential gene expression and its regulation in development.
Includes observations into development processes in a diverse group of organisms including developmental principles in simple multicellular protests, gametogenesis in diverse animal, fertilization in sea urchins, embryonic development of vertebrates, regeneration of planarians, and the role of gene regulation in fruit fly development. Some or all pre-requisites may be taken as either a pre-requisite or co-requisite.
This course is to give students an understanding of Human Anatomy in a clinical format. Anatomy will be studied in a regional manner with an emphasis placed on landmarks and relationships of structure within a region. Regions covered to include the back, upper limb, thorax, and abdomen.
This course is to accompany the Gross Anatomy lecture course and complements the students study of human anatomy by allowing the student to hone their dissection skills through dissection of a preserved mammalian specimen.
This course is a continuation of the clinically focused study of Human Anatomy begun in BIO 386 (Gross Anatomy I). Anatomy will be studied in a regional fashion, with a focus on the pelvis, lower limb, head, and neck.
This course is to accompany the Gross Anatomy lecture course and complements the students study of human anatomy by allowing the student to hone their dissection skills through dissection of a preserved mammalian specimen. This course is a direct continuation of BIO 387 (Gross Anatomy I Lab).
Covers the weak interactions which govern structure and function of biomolecules, including amino acids, proteins (structural organization, isolation, and methods of analysis). Enzymes (structure, catalytic mechanisms, kinetics), lipids and biomembranes, and DNA and RNA folding.
This course will provide students the opportunity to learn about molecular mechanisms of gene expression and control, genome analysis and manipulation, and the use of advanced tools and techniques in molecular biology. The principles of molecular biology and techniques will be discussed in the context of model organisms commonly used for molecular biology research. The course will have a strong focus on experimental approaches, problem solving and on understanding literature in the field. At the conclusion of the course, students should have the background to design experiments, and read and discuss papers from the primary literature regarding different aspects of molecular biology.
Discusses ageing at the organismal, organ, cellular, and molecular levels. Discussions include chronological verses biological aging, normal and abnormal human physiology of aging, current theories of aging, the effect of caloric restriction on aging, and the molecular mechanisms that underlie normal and abnormal aging.
This course aims to elucidate current technologies, theory, and applications of genomic research. Though a large emphasis will be placed on the use of genomic tools to study human health, we will also study the genomes, transcriptomes, and proteomes of bacteria, fungi, plants, and other animals.
This course explores the role of genetics in determining variation in animal (including human) behavior, and the role of gene expression in regulating behavioral development. The course surveys techniques for quantifying and analyzing genetic variation, behavioral effects, and gene expression.
This course focuses on the biochemical bases of several selected human disorders including neoplasm, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and obesity. Biochemical changes and their regulation by signaling pathways under the disease conditions will be examined. The relevance of diagnosis and treatment will be discussed.
Discusses the major viral groups, including biochemistry and molecular genetics of viral replication, structure, gene expression, latency, and role in disease.
The experimental and theoretical basis for the structure and function of biological membranes will be surveyed. Topics include membrane self-assembly, bilayer phase behavior and dynamics, membrane protein structure, passive and active transport, membrane fusion and trafficking.
Covers the fundamental concepts of innate and adaptive immunity, including the molecular and cellular mechanisms that generate responses to a broad spectrum of infectious threats, self/non-self recognition, immune regulation.
An introduction to the pathobiology of human disease as it relates to principles of cytoskeleton and membrane biology. The course reviews basic intracellular mechanisms and examines how they go awry in respiratory, heart and kidney diseases, diabetes, cancer, neurodegeneration and during viral and microbial infections.
Course covers chemical composition and cellular function of organelles and other cellular structures, intra- and inter- cellular regulatory processes, intercellular communication, genetic mechanisms and analytical techniques.
This course will expand on the concepts of molecular immunology focusing on emerging concepts in immunology research, immunopathologies, failure of host defense and current clinical concepts.
This course surveys population genetics theory as applied to studies of micro-evolutionary changes. We will examine the forces of evolution—mutation, selection, inbreeding, gene flow, genetic drift—and how they can (and cannot) change allele frequencies in populations over time. We will apply the theory that you have learned by also examining current primary literature on human evolutionary history, population genetics and patterns of adaptation.
Covers the fundamentals and principles of genetics with an emphasis on their relevance to human genetics and disease. Topics include human genetic disorders, pedigree analysis and genetic testing, cytogenetics, epigenetics, genetics of cancer, gene therapy, stem cell research, human genomics and biotechnology.
Covers classical prokaryotic and eukaryotic genetics; DNA/RNA structure; DNA replication, transcription, translation and regulation of these processes. Also covers major molecular techniques used for characterizing prokaryotic and eukaryotic genes, tools for analysis of genomes, and applications of molecular genetics research.
Proteins are essential for the function and health of the cell. Misfolded and damaged proteins are at the root of numerous human diseases, known collectively as conformational diseases. In this course we will examine cellular mechanisms involved in biosynthesis, folding and maintenance of proteins, and discuss how the failure of these mechanisms contributes to disease.
Autism disorders arise from changes in neurodevelopment that deeply affect how individuals interact with the world around them. As study of autism has increased over the past several decades, it has become clear that autism actually comprises a large, heterogeneous set of similar disorders, most of which are genetic in origin. In this class, we will study how neuronal cell biology is disrupted in known forms of autism, and how distinct forms of autism can arise from alterations in common cellular pathways. Further, we will discuss how these discoveries may lead to eventual treatments or cures.
Covers molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neuron function. Topics include: molecular and cellular biology of neurons and neural development; molecular biology and physiology of sensory and motor neurons; molecular biology of muscle function; molecular and cellular basis of learning and memory in model organisms.
BIO 463Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration3.0
This is an advanced course on the current, primary literature in the area of neurodegeneration. Students are expected to be conversant in areas of Genetics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Neurobiology. This is a discussion course based on reading current manuscripts from the primary literature. Some or all pre-requisites may be taken as either a pre-requisite or co-requisite. Please see the department for more information.
The objective of the course is to provide a basic understanding of molecular and cellular biology of disorders of the human nervous system. Advances developed from experimental models that have armed clinicians and basic scientists with new tools for diagnosis and treatment of disease and injury will be presented.
Describes the classical hormones, their regulation and major clinical abnormalities. New directions in endocrinology, such as cellular regulation and cellular mediators of hormonal action are also considered. The major focus of the course will be on mammals, although some examples involving other vertebrates are included.
This course is designed to give students an appreciation of the many ways to think about the diseased organism, with an emphasis on the cellular- and systems-level malfunctions that contribute to the disease state. Having established an understanding of the normal physiology of the system in question, we will investigate the underlying cause, origin, and symptoms of the pathophysiology, as well as exploring the successes and limitations of available treatment options. Considerable emphasis will be placed on the importance of model systems that mimic aspects of the diseased state, as well as the role epidemiological data plays in helping to clarify the genetic and environmental contributors.
In the second term of senior seminar, we will continue to host professional seminars with speakers presenting current research in the various biological disciplines. Professional development sessions will be available that will be helpful to the student's maturation.
In the third term of senior seminar, student groups complete their year-long capstone assignment and present final projects during seminar. We will continue to host research seminars and professional development sessions to aid students in their scientific development and in planning for their future careers.
Through this course, research-active students will engage in activities intended to help them develop a written thesis, and learn how to present their research effectively in both written and oral formats. Students will be encouraged to improve their skills in reading and analyzing the literature and their own data. Students will communicate their ideas through the development of a formal thesis, an in-class oral presentation, and a poster presentation. Seminar attendance will be a part of this course. Students must complete BIO 471 and 473 before registering for this course.
Covers the fundamentals underlying the energetics and kinetics of macromolecular interactions of enzymes, membranes and nucleic acids in living systems.
Covers genetic organization and regulation in viruses (primarily bacteriophages), bacteria, fungi, and algae; techniques of genetic manipulation of microbial genomes; genetic interactions of microbes under natural conditions; and the use of microbial modification in industrial processes.
This course uses a combination of lecture and hands-on exercises to develop computational, algorithmic, and database navigation skills used in the analysis of genes and genomes. Topics include genomic databases, genome assembly and annotation, sequence alignment, phylogenetics, and comparative genomics.
This course uses a combination of lecture and hands-on exercises to develop programming and software skills used in the study of functional genomics. Topics include genetics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics.
This courses provides an introduction to the biological basis of human and animal behavior. This course will emphasize fundamental aspects of neuroscience including how individual neurons respond to stimuli, how these neurons connect to form circuits during development, and how ensembles of neurons work together to mediate simple tasks.
This course provides an introduction to the biological basis of human and animal behavior. This course will emphasize fundamental aspects of neuroscience with a focus on the principles of how circuits function in the nervous system. Topics covered will include how neural circuits mediate sensory perception, drive behavioral output, and generate thoughts and emotions.
Covers how enzymes function and form metabolic pathways, how the pathways fit into cell physiology, and how these pathways are regulated. Overall considers how organisms digest nutrients and utilize them to support life. The terminology and technology commonly employed in contemporary biochemistry laboratories are emphasized.
This course aims to elucidate current technologies, theory, and applications of genomic research. Though a large emphasis will be placed on the use of genomic tools to study human health, we will also study the genomes, transcriptomes, and proteomes of bacteria, fungi, plants, and other animals.
This course explores the role of genetics in determining variation in animal (including human) behavior, and the role of gene expression in regulating behavioral development. The course surveys techniques for quantifying and analyzing genetic variation, behavioral effects, and gene expression.
This course focuses on the biochemical bases of several selected human disorders including neoplasm, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and obesity. Biochemical changes and their regulation by signaling pathways under the disease conditions will be examined. The relevance of diagnosis and treatment will be discussed.
Covers biochemical properties of membranes and membrane components, including phase properties, structure, organization, permeability, transport, and biosynthesis of membrane components.
Covers the fundamental concepts of innate and adaptive immunity, including the molecular and cellular mechanisms that generate responses to a broad spectrum of infectious threats, self/non-self recognition, immune regulation.
An introduction to the pathobiology of human disease as it relates to principles of cytoskeleton and membrane biology. The course reviews basic intracellular mechanisms and examines how they go awry in respiratory, heart and kidney diseases, diabetes, cancer, neurodegeneration and during viral and microbial infections.
Advanced Cell Biology is an up-to-date examination of the basic components and processes of the eukaryotic cell with the goal of understanding how these processes are integrated to drive complex cell behavior. Specifically, the course focuses on the molecular principles, modules and functions that sustain cell motility by integrating the essential concepts presented in class, including energy production, intracellular signaling, vesicular trafficking, and cell adhesion. Students will present cutting edge research publications and ideas spanning cell biology.
In this course, students develop and apply computational skills in bioinformatics to address a quarter-long research project. Topics generally focus on the ecology and evolution of microbes, which have become much easier to study thanks to the advent of molecular tools and software for the analysis of DNA sequences.
Covers classical prokaryotic and eukaryotic genetics; DNA/RNA structure; DNA replication, transcription, translation and their regulation; major molecular techniques used in the analysis of genes and genomes. Includes readings from primary literature, covering recent advances and classical experiments in genetics, genomics and molecular biology.
This course surveys population genetics theory as applied to studies of micro-evolutionary changes. We will examine the forces of evolution—mutation, selection, inbreeding, gene flow, genetic drift—and how they can (and cannot) change allele frequencies in populations over time. We will apply the theory that you have learned by also examining current primary literature on human evolutionary history, population genetics and patterns of adaptation.
Covers the fundamentals and principles of genetics with an emphasis on their relevance to human genetics and disease. Topics include human genetic disorders, pedigree analysis and genetic testing, cytogenetics, epigenetics, genetics of cancer, gene therapy, stem cell research, human genomics and biotechnology.
This course will focus on recent and important topics relevant to stem cell research and development. Topics will include nuclear reprogramming and epigenetics, environmental influences on stem cell differentiation, stem cells and cancer, stem-cell-based therapies for heart and neurogenerative disorders, stem cells and ageing, and politics of stem cell research.
Discusses major viral groups, including biochemistry and molecular genetics of viral replication, structure, gene expression, latency, and role in disease.
Proteins are essential for the function and health of the cell. Misfolded and damaged proteins are at the root of numerous human diseases, known collectively as conformational diseases. In this course we will examine cellular mechanisms involved in biosynthesis, folding and maintenance of proteins, and discuss how the failure of these mechanisms contributes to disease.
Covers the physiology and metabolism of microorganisms. Emphasizes aspects unique to prokaryotes, including envelope structure, chemotaxis, transport systems, modes of nutrition, biosynthesis, growth, and mechanisms of action of antibiotics.
Autism disorders arise from changes in neurodevelopment that deeply affect how individuals interact with the world around them. As study of autism has increased over the past several decades, it has become clear that autism actually comprises a large, heterogeneous set of similar disorders, most of which are genetic in origin. In this class, we will study how neuronal cell biology is disrupted in known forms of autism, and how distinct forms of autism can arise from alterations in common cellular pathways. Further, we will discuss how these discoveries may lead to eventual treatments or cures. Classes will include both lectures and discussion of recent papers from the scientific literature.
Covers molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neuron function. Topics include: molecular and cellular biology of neurons and neural development; molecular biology and physiology of sensory and motor neurons; molecular biology of muscle function; molecular and cellular basis of learning and memory in model organisms.
BIO 663Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration3.0
This is an advanced course on the current, primary literature in the area of neurodegeneration. Students are expected to be conversant in areas of Genetics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Neurobiology. This is a discussion course based on reading current manuscripts from the primary literature.
The objective of the course is to provide a basic understanding of molecular and cellular biology of disorders of the human nervous system. Advances developed from experimental models that have armed clinicians and basic scientists with new tools for diagnosis and treatment of disease and injury will be presented.
Covers failure in hose defense, immunotherapies, clinical concepts in immunology, and emerging concepts in immunology research. Material is presented in a combination of a Lecture and Journal club format with a focus on class participation, presentation and discussion.
The course will cover topics related to the appropriate and correct conduct of personnel in a research setting. Issues will be discussed dealing with choosing a research mentor, how to record data, authorship and publication, and the correct and ethical treatment of animal and human subjects.
This writing-intensive course provides the fundamentals to write effective research grant proposals for graduate students with research thesis projects in life and environmental sciences. The course focuses on grantsmanship skills and mechanics, and trains students in articulating well-reasoned hypotheses and clear rationales, as well as organizing and discussing experimental approaches, caveats, outcomes and interpretations. Through peer-partner work, mock review panels and instructor feedback, the course instills the criteria of grant peer review and fosters the critical self-awareness that is necessary for successful grant applications. The course will equip students with skills for competitive fellowship applications, and careers that involve research project design and presentation.
BIO 740Readings and Critical Thinking in Biology3.0
A course for first year graduate students emphasizing communication skill sets necessary to excel in Biology and related Graduate Programs. Students will become skilled in critically reading and presenting primary literature, presenting their own research to a scientific audience and generating proposals for interdisciplinary studies.
This research seminar is a forum for Biology PhD students to present on their research to faculty and graduate student peers. Discussion of the scientific content as well as feedback on presentation style and quality follows every presentation.
Subject
BIO
Credits (min)
1.5
Credits (max)
1.5
Credit unit
Credit
Type
course
Repeatable
Can be repeated multiple times for credit Restrictions: Can enroll if major is BIO or major is ENVS and program is MS or MSES or PHD.
