300

BIOL 330 Ecology

Introduction to ecology emphasizing general principles at individual, population, and community levels. Examples of various approaches (observation and experimentation, field and laboratory studies, and modeling and computer simulations) are considered.

3

Prerequisites

BIOL 243 or BIOL 144

BIOL 331 Ecology Laboratory

Laboratories designed to give a diversity of experience, building upon principles of individual, population, and community ecology. A quantitative approach to the study of ecology is emphasized. Labs include plant and animal studies and field and laboratory experiments, as well as long- and short-term studies.

1

BIOL 333 Biochemistry

The structure and function of proteins and the regulation of metabolic pathways will be the central concepts presented in the course. Students should gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of the biology of protein molecules.

3

Prerequisites

CHEM 215 and (CHEM 225 or CHEM 230)

BIOL 334 Biochemistry Laboratory

Introduction to laboratory practice using biochemical techniques to isolate and characterize proteins. Enzyme kinetics and bioinformatics are also covered.

1

Prerequisites

BIOL 333*

Cross Listed Courses

* Indicates that the course can be taken in the same semester

BIOL 336 Mammalian Physiology

An integrative approach to systems physiology. After an initial discussion on mechanisms of cellular regulation of homeostasis, individual physiological systems, e.g. respiratory, cardiovascular, are examined. Organ and system action are related to demonstrate integration of function within the body. Major emphasis will be on normal human functions.

3

Prerequisites

BIOL 133 and CHEM 215

BIOL 337 Mammalian Physiology Lab

A laboratory course designed to complement BIOL 336 Mammalian Physiology. Laboratory exercises examine, through experimentation, the integrative functions of organs and systems within the body. Labs include excitable cell physiology, cardiovascular, excretory and exercise physiology. Wherever possible, human models are utilized.

1

Corequisites

BIOL 336

BIOL 338 Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms: bacteria, archaea, viruses, and eukaryotes. We will study the diversity, ecology, biochemistry, genetics, pathogenicity, and other areas of microorganisms. The laboratory will include basic techniques for the isolation and identification of bacteria based on their metabolic, physical and genetic properties.

4

Prerequisites

BIOL 237 and BIOL 333

BIOL 344 Parasitology

A survey of the more important protozoan and helminth parasites of humans. Special emphasis is given to epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of common parasitic diseases.

1

Prerequisites

BIOL 131 and BIOL 133

BIOL 365 Bioethics and New Embryology

Bioethics is a multidisciplinary study that examines the ethical treatment of patients in a medical environment. The field of bioethics emerged in the 1960s and is an important facet of both biology and philosophy. The field of bioethics developed in an environment of mutual discussion between people of faith and more secular philosophers. Technological advancements such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), genetic engineering, and stem cell research have opened the door to many healthy debates about technological capabilities and the development of the embryo. To make informed judgments and participate effectively in debating these issues each person should understand the science behind the ethical debates Advances in biology and medicine mean that there are important personal issues that arise concerning questions about the start and end of life. The course is not about deciding what is right or wrong, but to stimulate a significant discussion about issues such as: Should we encourage/regulate IVF? Should we allow individuals to choose the sex of their child before it is implanted? Should we test and alter genes of an embryo? When does human life begin? Should we be allowed to genetically engineer embryos to provide the characteristics we desire (eye color, intelligence, etc)? Is therapeutic cloning acceptable and reproductive cloning off limits?

3

Prerequisites

BIOL 237

BIOL 380 Cell and Molecular Biology

This course is designed as an introduction to modern cell biology. Cell biology is the meeting point of biochemistry, genetics, cytology and physiology and is vital to anyone with an interest in molecular biology. A cell biologist must not only be able to examine structures within a cell, but must understand the underlying molecular processes that govern the formation and regulation of those structures, as well as the interaction of those structures with each other and the environment both inside and outside the cell.

3

Prerequisites

BIOL 237 and BIOL 238

BIOL 381 Cell and Molecular Biology Lab

This laboratory course is designed to familiarize students with some of the techniques used in cell biology research. Much of the emphasis will be on the use of fluorescence microscopy, but will take advantage of many tools that have been developed for use on the fluorescent microscope. We will also use biochemical techniques to examine proteins and cellular contents. During the semester, students will learn to identify particular functions and processes within the eukaryotic cell.

1

Prerequisites

BIOL 237 and BIOL 238

Corequisites

BIOL 380

BIOL 397 Biochemistry Seminar I

Current biochemical research papers are analyzed in a journal club (open discussion) format. This course will help students to develop critical reading skills and underscore how an array of biochemical techniques are applied to address a research problem. Faculty from both biology and chemistry participate in this seminar.

1