Courses in Biological Sciences

A Bio 100 Contemporary Biology (3)

Topics in selected areas of the Biological Sciences. May be repeated for credit when topic varies. Does not yield credit toward the major in biology.

A Bio 102 General Biological Sciences (3)

Introduction to the major concepts in biology and a survey of the common structures of organisms, including humans, and their functions at the molecular, cellular, organismal and population levels. Emphasis placed on principles of ecology, inheritance, evolution and physiology relevant to human society. May not be taken for credit by students who have credit in A Bio 110 or A Bio 110Z or A Bio 111 or other equivalent introductory courses. Does not yield credit toward the major in biology. [NS]

A Bio 110Z General Biology I (4)

A Bio 110Z is the writing intensive version of A Bio 110; only one may be taken for credit. Offered fall semester only. [NS WI]

A Bio 110 General Biology I (4)

First course in a two semester sequence which offers a comprehensive survey of the structures and functions common to all living systems at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and population levels. This course emphasizes evolutionary principles, ecology, and behavior. Three class periods and one laboratory per week. A Bio 110F is the writing intensive version of A Bio 110 only one may be taken for credit. Offered fall semester only. May not be offered in 2005-2006. [NS]

A Bio 111 General Biology II (4)

Second course in a two-semester sequence which offers a comprehensive survey of the structures and functions common to all living systems at the molecular. cellular, organismal, and population levels. This course emphasizes structure and function at the cellular level as a basis for understanding function at the organismal level. Offered spring semester only. Three class periods and one laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 110Z or 110. [NS]

A Bio 117 Nutrition (3)

The biological roles of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals; digestion, absorption, and storage of nutrients, the chemical nature of foods and food processing; assessment of nutritional status; interactions of nutrients and disease; food supplementation and community nutrition. Does not yield credit toward the major in biology. [NS]

A Bio 199 Contemporary Issues in Biological Sciences (1-3)

Issues from the current literature in selected areas of biological sciences. Particular areas of study to be announced each semester. Intended for students interested in exploring in depth themes covered in large lecture classes. S/U or A-E graded. May be repeated for credit when topic varies. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 205 Human Genetics (3)

Survey of human genetics emphasizing the principles and mechanisms of inheritance and including the analysis of the genetic material of humans; the behavior of genes in individuals families, and populations; and the implications for human behavior and evolution, medicine, and society. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 110Z and 111 or permission of instructor. Does not yield credit toward the major in biology. May not be offered during 2005-2006.

A Bio 209 The Human Organism (3)

An introduction to the biology of the human organism from the perspective of its anatomy and physiology, emphasizing applications to modern life and human society. Does not yield credit toward the major in biology. [NS]

A Bio 212Y Introductory Genetics (4)

Genetics from the classical Mendelian Laws of inheritance to molecular genetics. Topics will include: DNA structure and replication; Mendelian genetics and recombination; population, fungal, somatic cell, and bacterial genetics; gene organization; the genetic code; mechanisms of gene expression and regulation; and applications of genetic technology. Three class periods and one discussion section. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111. [OD] May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 217 Cell Biology (3)

An introduction to modern cell biology. This course will present the basic organization of eukaryotic cells while stressing their elaborate structural-functional integration. The cell's fundamental properties conserved through evolution will be stressed. May not be taken for credit by students who have credit in A Bio 301 or A Bio 304. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y.

A Bio 241 The Biology of Sex (3)

This course, designed for nonmajors, examines sex from a biological perspective in species from bacteria to humans. Topics covered include sexual and asexual reproduction, sexual selection, mate choice, sex determination, sexual dimorphisms, mating strategies, courtship, genetic and environmental determinants of sexual behavior, and genetic and neural bases of sexual orientation. This course focuses on biological rather than social or cultural constructions of sex and reproduction. Prerequisite(s): high school biology. Does not yield credit toward the major in biology. [NS]

A Bio 299 Introduction to Methods for Research (2)

This course helps to prepare students for supervised undergraduate research in A Bio 399 and A Bio 499. It will provide basic, current laboratory training applicable to various areas of modern biology. Laboratory exercises are drawn from the general areas of molecular, neural, cellular and developmental, and behavioral biology. Emphasis is placed on learning fundamental laboratory techniques, interpreting and presenting data, and designing simple experiments. One laboratory per week and additional flexible time as required. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 302Z Cell Biology Laboratory (2)

Introduction to modern techniques in cell biology, including advanced optical microscopy, DNA extraction and analysis, protein electrophoresis and western blotting, cell homogenization and fractionation, and cell culture. These techniques are used to investigate cell motility, membrane structure and permeability, mitochondrial respiration, DNA replication, the cell cycle, and cell adhesion. One laboratory period per week; additional time as required. Prerequisite or corequisite: A Bio 217 or 301; A Bio 365. [WI]

A Bio 303 (formerly A Bio 403) Developmental Biology (3)

The development of form and function in animals with emphasis on molecular analyses of organismal and cellular events underlying fertilization, early development, morphogenesis and growth. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y.

A Bio 305 Developmental Biology Laboratory (2)

This laboratory course examines the mechanisms of animal and plant development at the molecular and cellular level by modern and classical techniques. Topics include gametogenesis, fertilization, early and later development, cell division and morphogenesis. One laboratory period per week; additional time as required. Prerequisite or corequisite(s): A Bio 303.

A Bio 308 Parasitic Diseases and Human Welfare (3)

Ecological, medical, and social interrelationships of selected parasitic diseases of people and domestic animals in temperate, semi-tropical, and tropical climates; role of wild animals as reservoirs or vectors of parasitic diseases in humans. Prerequisite(s): 10 credits of biology or permission of instructor.

A Bio 311 (= A Gog 310 and U Uni 310) World Food Crisis (3)

Interdisciplinary approach to understanding world food problems through analyses of social, political, economic, nutritional, agricultural, and environmental aspects of world hunger. Faculty from several departments in the sciences, humanities, and social and behavioral sciences present views from various disciplines. Does not yield credit toward the major in biology. Only one of A Bio 311 & U Uni 310 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing, or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 314 Microbiology (3)

Introduction to the morphology, physiology, structure, genetics, and metabolism of microorganisms, including the roles played by microorganisms in medical, environmental, agricultural, and biotechnological sciences. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y, or both A Bio 111 and A Bio 205; and A Chm 342 or A Bio 365.

A Bio 315 Microbiology Laboratory (2)

Laboratory studies that deal with the culture and study of microorganisms, the dynamics of microbial growth, and the physiological basis of bacterial identification. One laboratory per week; additional flexible time as required. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite: A Bio 314.

A Bio 316 Biogeography (3)

Origin and differentiation of floras and faunas; biotic regions of the world, principles of distribution; migration, adaptation, evolution, and extinction. Three class periods each week. Prerequisite(s): 15 credits in Biology; A Mat or higher.

A Bio 317 Comparative Animal Physiology (3)

The physiological mechanisms employed by animals in meeting the stresses imposed by different environments. Considers strategies of adaptive radiation including toleration, avoidance, and regulation from an evolutionary perspective. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111 and junior status.

A Bio 318 (= A Ant 312; formerly A Bio 419/A Ant 412) Human Population Genetics (3)

Population genetics theory is the foundation of evolutionary biology and contributes heavily to modern ideas in ecology, systematics, and agriculture. This course is an introduction to that theory with special emphasis on evolution. Only one of A Ant 312 and A Bio 318 may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A Ant 211 or A Bio 205 or 212Y. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 320 Ecology (3)

Introduction to the study of organisms, populations, and communities in relation to their environments. Stresses an integrated approach at all levels of biological organization. Topics include: the niche concept, species diversity, nutrient cycling, energy flow, population dynamics and control, biological rhythms, and other physiological mechanisms influenced by the environment. Three class periods each week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111.

A Bio 321 The Insects (3)

A multilevel examination of the biology of insects, with particular emphasis on those aspects of design, physiology and behavior that make them so distinctive and successful. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111 or equivalent. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 325 Comparative Anatomy of Chordates (4)

Comparative study of embryonic development, functional morphology, adaptive radiation, and evolution of chordates. Three class periods, one laboratory period each week. Prerequisite(s): 12 credits of biology or permission of instructor. Not open to freshmen.

A Bio 327 (Previously A Bio 445) Experimental Ecology (3)

Fundamental ecological concepts are demonstrated with experimental manipulations and comparative assessment techniques. Local ecosystems are studies; the focus is on the effects of land use on ecosystem structure and function. Ecological assessment skills are developed in the field and laboratory. Lectures couple fundamental and applied topics, balancing understanding of ecological principles with realistic environmental problem solving. Students contribute to a report that becomes part of the record for a municipal wetland. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 110 and A Bio 111 or permission of instructor.

A Bio 335 Immunology (3)

The structure and function of the antibody molecule and of reactions between antigen and antibody. Also covers cellular interactions in the immune response as well as both the beneficial and harmful consequences of the response. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y; prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): A Chm 342 or A Bio 365.

A Bio 336Z (formerly A Bio 336) Laboratory in Immunology (2)

Modern laboratory techniques will be performed to study the cellular and humoral components of the immune system; immune cells and cell markers, immunoglobulin purification and characterization, antibody and antigen identification assays including immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis, and enzyme-based immunoassays (ELISA). One laboratory per week, plus additional flexible time as required. The former A Bio 336 does not meet the writing intensive requirement. Only one of A Bio 336 and 336Z may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): A Bio 335. [WI]

A Bio 341 Neurobiology (3)

The structure and function of the nervous system examined at the cellular level. Topics include: organization of nervous systems; morphology and physiology of nerve cells; synaptic transmission; sensory processing; cellular circuitry underlying 'simple' behaviors; cellular basis of learning; and the development of neuronal connections. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111; prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): A Phy 108.

A Bio 342 Neurobiology Laboratory (2)

Experimental analyses of the morphology and electrophysiology of nerve cells. Experiments include the visualization of individual nerve cells through selective staining, stimulation and recording of electrical potentials in nerve cells; and an examination of synaptic transmission. Experiments will be performed on invertebrate nervous systems. One laboratory period each week. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): A Bio 341. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 365 Biological Chemistry (3)

The chemistry and biochemical interrelationship of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids; enzyme catalysis and introduction to metabolism. Prerequisite(s): A Chm 216 and 217.

A Bio 366 Biological Chemistry II (3)

Control and regulation of metabolic pathways, expression and transmission of genetic information, and a variety of selected current topics. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 365.

A Bio 367 Biochemistry Laboratory (2)

This laboratory course is designed to provide basic training in various procedures used in present day biochemical research. These will include methods for protein purification, enzyme kinetics, peptide sequencing, and fractionation of intracellular components. In addition, biochemical processes such as glucose metabolism and photosynthesis will be studied. One laboratory period each week. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): A Bio 365 or equivalent and permission of instructor.

A Bio 389Z Writing in Biology (1)

Students who are concurrently registered in, or have previously taken, any 300- or 400-level biology course which yields credit toward the major, may with permission of the instructor of that course, enroll in A Bio 389Z and fulfill a writing intensive version of that other course. One additional meeting per week in which writing techniques and experiences are stressed is required. Written work that will be used for credit in A Bio 389Z must be in addition to any writings required for the companion course. Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): a companion biology course at the 300 or 400 level. S/U graded. [WI]

A Bio 399 Supervised Research for Juniors (1-3)

Individual, independent research on selected topics in biology. Critical analysis of selected research papers. Junior majors in the department of biological sciences apply for this course through the prospective research adviser. Students taking two or more semesters of A Bio 399, 399Z, 499, or 499Z will prepare a poster or make an oral presentation at the Departmental Research Symposium. A copy of the final written report of each semester's work, preferably typewritten in journal format, is kept on permanent file in the department. May be taken either semester. A maximum of 6 credits may be earned in A Bio 399 and 399Z.

A Bio 399Z Supervised Research for Juniors (2-3)

Writing intensive version of A Bio 399 open to junior majors in biology who have completed a minimum of one previous semester in A Bio 399 for at least two credits. Students taking two or more semesters of A Bio 399, 399Z, 499, or 499Z will prepare a poster or make an oral presentation at the Departmental Research Symposium. Requires permission of research adviser. A maximum of 6 credits may be earned in A Bio 399 and 399Z. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 399. [WI]

A Bio 402 Evolution (3)

The patterns and processes of biological change with time from the origins of life, through major evolutionary innovations, to the development of human culture. Fundamental concepts in biology will be stressed, including information, mutation, selection, random drift, and adaptation. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y.

A Bio 406 Vertebrate Histology (4)

Microanatomy and function of animal cells, tissues and major vertebrate organs, excluding the brain. Practical work with bright-field microscopy and preparation of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, sectioned and stained tissues. Three class periods, one laboratory period each week. Extra time may be needed to complete individual projects. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y; A Bio 325 and/or A Bio 410 recommended but not required.

A Bio 409 Introduction to Biological Materials (3)

Investigation of the structure, function, and materials properties of non-living biological products (e.g., insect and plant cuticles, mineralized shell, bone, etc.). Particular attention to developmental control on the cellular and other levels. Prerequisite(s): One of the following courses: A Bio 321, 324, 325, or 422, or equivalent. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 410 Human Physiology (3)

The functions of organ systems and their contributions to the functions of the human body as a whole. Topics to include: nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal systems and energy metabolism and temperature regulation. Two 1 1/2-hour lecture periods each week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111 and A Chm 121 or 131.

A Bio 411Z Human Physiology Laboratory (2)

A mixture of lab experiments and computer simulations in systemic physiology with emphasis on membrane transport and excitability, muscle contraction, cardiovascular regulation, respiration and metabolism, acid-base control, renal system physiology, and sensory physiology. Three hours laboratory and one hour discussion per week, with emphasis on writing of scientific lab reports. Corequisite(s): A Bio 410.

A Bio 422 (formerly A Bio 304) Biological Architecture (3)

An analysis of the basic physical and architectural principles underlying the design of biological organisms. Topics to be covered include architecture and materials of skeletons, biological design for swimming and flight, structural colors, patterns of branching and fractal growth. Three lectures per week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 110Z or 110, 6 credits of upper level biology or permission of instructor.

A Bio 425 (formerly A Bio 312) Molecular Biology (3)

Mechanisms of gene expression and regulation will be studied, using examples from bacteria and eukaryotes. Discussion will include experimental approaches to gene cloning and sequencing, analysis of DNA-protein interactions, and structure and function of RNA. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212Y; prerequisite or corequisite: A Bio 365 or A Chm 342.

A Bio 426 (formerly A Bio 313) Laboratory in Molecular Biology (2)

Experiments in the modern techniques of recombinant molecular biology will be performed. These may include restriction mapping of plasmids, gene cloning, DNA blotting, DNA sequence analysis, plasmid constructions, and gene expression studies. One laboratory per week, plus additional flexible time as required. Prerequisite: A Bio 212. Prerequisite or Corequisite(s): A Bio 365, A Bio 425.

A Bio 432 Animal Behavior (3)

The organization, causation, development, and evolution of behavior in vertebrates and invertebrates. Emphasizes a synthesis of information from both field and laboratory. Topics include stimuli and responsiveness, motivation, conflict behavior, social behavior with emphasis on ecological aspects, orientation and navigation, rhythmicity, learning, and the neural organization responsible for behavior. Three class periods each week. Prerequisite(s): 15 credits in biology. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 433 Population Dynamics (3)

Mathematical bases of predictive understanding in ecology and epidemiology. Single-species models emphasize density-dependent vital rates, population stability, and the transition to chaotic dynamics. Multi-species models address ecological invasion, emergence of infectious disease, and coexistence of interacting species. A third unit introduces theory for the dynamics of populations structured by age, developmental stage, or local-interaction neighborhoods. Students complete a series of writing assignments and problem sets. Prerequisite: A Mat 112 or A Phy 140, A Bio 320 or A 327.

A Bio 441 Molecular Neurobiology (3)

The molecular biology of learning, memory, neural development and neurological disease. The course will relate the structure and function of receptors, second messangers, cytoskeletal proteins, transcription factors and gene structure to their roles in the nervous system. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 312 or 341 or 301.

A Bio 442 Restoration Ecology (3)

Restoration ecology seeks to enhance natural recovery of damaged ecosystems. Through lectures and readings, we review the science and practice of ecological restoration, with emphasis on application of ecological principles. Prerequisite(s): 15 credits in Biology, including a course in organismal biology or ecology. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 443 Restoration Ecology Laboratory (1)

Demonstrations and laboratory exercises will explore tools for the design, implementation, and assessment of restoration projects in a variety of habitats. As the principal assignment, student teams will prepare a design plan for a restoration project. Prerequisite(s): concurrent enrollment A Bio 442. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 455 Plant Ecology (3)

Current research and theoretical background in the field of plant ecology will be explored. Topics will include population and community dynamics, evolution of life history traits, physiological responses to environmental stresses, plant-animal interactions, and the role of vegetation in ecosystem processes. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 319, 391Z, or A Bio 320 or permission of instructor.

A Bio 456 Plant Ecology Laboratory (1)

Field and laboratory studies will explore experimental and analytical technique used in plant ecology. Topics include population dynamics, community patterns, plant-animal interactions, and vegetation mapping. Pre-requisite or co-requisite(s): A Bio 455. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 460 Neural Basis of Behavior (3)

The neural basis of innate and learned behaviors in vertebrates and invertebrates will be examined. Emphasis will be placed on sensory processing, reflexive behavior, fixed action patterns, rhythmic behavior and simple learned behavior amenable to analysis at the neuronal level including analysis of membrane electrical activity, chemical synaptic activity and neuromodulation. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 341 or equivalent or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 497 Topics in Biology (1-3)

Issues from the current literature in selected areas of biology. Particular areas of study to be announced each semester. Yields credit toward the major in biological sciences. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 498 Topics in Biology, with Laboratory (1-3)

Issues in selected areas of biology. Particular areas of study to be announced each semester. Yields laboratory credit toward the major in biological sciences. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing, and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2005-2006.

A Bio 499 Supervised Research for Seniors (1-4)

Individual, independent research on selected topics in biology. Critical analysis of selected research papers. Senior majors in the department of biological sciences apply for this course through the prospective research adviser. A copy of the final written report of each semester's work, preferably typewritten in journal format, is kept on permanent file in the department. May be taken either semester. Students taking two or more semesters of A Bio 399, 399Z, 499, or 499Z will prepare a poster or make an oral presentation at the Departmental Research Symposium. A maximum of 8 credits may be earned in A Bio 499 and 499Z.

A Bio 499Z Supervised Research for Seniors (2-4)

Writing intensive version of A Bio 499 open to senior majors in biology who have completed a minimum of one previous semester in A Bio 399 or 499 for at least two credits. Requires permission of research adviser. Students taking two or more semesters of A Bio 399, 399Z, 499, or 499Z will prepare a poster or make an oral presentation at the Departmental Research Symposium. A maximum of 8 credits may be earned in A Bio 499 and 499Z. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 399 or 499. [WI]