Biology

BIOL 1000 An Introduction to Biology

A one-semester introduction to the principles of biology, designed for students with little or no formal background in the biological sciences. Focus on basic principles of cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Current public concerns such as AIDS, cancer, and genetic engineering considered in light of these principles. Not intended for students expecting to major in biology or planning to enter health fields. A student may not receive credit for both Bio 100A and 303A.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

BIOL 1020 Biology of the Brain

This course is for students who wish to learn about the biology of the nervous system, and the scientific process of understanding how it works. Biology of the Brain will include lecture, discussion, and analysis of cutting edge research, so active participation will be important. We will discuss the gross anatomy and cellular composition of the brain. We will analyze how the brain develops, changes with experience to create memories, and recovers from injury. Along the way, we will discuss nervous system dysfunction a range of contexts such as Addiction, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. This course counts as a Natural Science and Mathematics (NSM) distribution requirement.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Summer

BIOL 1103 Topics in Biology: Cancer

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Summer

BIOL 1112 First-Year Seminar: Introduction to Problem-Based Learning in Biology

 New description: In this course, students engage in inquiry-based learning while exploring cutting edge science through guided discussions and collaborations.  Working in small groups of 8–10 students, students will investigate topics of biological and biomedical importance using research articles from scientific literature.  Topics covered may include neurological disorders, infectious diseases, gene editing, cancer biology, and stem cell therapies.  Learning to interpret and present research articles is emphasized. This course also encourages development of scientific critical thinking in both individual and group work.  There is no final exam; instead, students will prepare and deliver a TED Talk-style presentation on a biological topic of their choosing.  Enrollment is limited to support small-group learning and intended for, but not limited to, prospective biology majors.  Recommended: high school biology, preferably Honors or AP class.  Course is for first-year, non-transfer students only.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 1123 Special Topics in Biology: Plant-Microbe Interactions

This is a research-based laboratory course offered by Dr. Barbara Kunkel in the Biology Department. The small class size and laboratory setting of the course is intended to foster development of student-professor mentoring relationships. Time commitment (weekly): 2 hours in lab, 1 hour of discussion (1 unit, P/F). Class size: 4 students Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor Research Question. Microbial organisms play very important roles in the lives of plants and animals. For example, in nature as well as in agricultural settings, the communities of microorganisms that grow near or on plants influence the growth and overall health of these plants. These plant-associated microbial communities are highly complex, and are comprised of thousands of different species, including bacteria and fungi. However, neither the role of individual microbial species within the larger microbial community, nor how such a community is beneficial to plants, is well understood. Each year the students in Bio1771 explore a different topic related to interactions between plants and their associated microbes. During the 2020/2021 academic year our research will focus on virulence mechanisms used by the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae to promote disease in plants. Recent research in the Kunkel lab has revealed that the plant hormone auxin promotes disease development in interactions between P. syringae strain PtoDC3000 and one of its host, Arabidopsis thaliana, a weedy plant in the mustard family. Auxin acts through at least two different mechanisms to promote disease, including 1) suppressing defense responses in the plant and 2) regulating gene expression in the pathogen. We will investigate this second activity by screening for and characterizing PtoDC3000 mutants that do not properly respond to auxin. Students will spend two hours per week in lab carrying out bacteriological and molecular biology experiments. Over the course of the semester, students will be exposed to a variety of fundamental topics in biology, including: bacteriology, plant growth and development, pathogenic plant-microbe interactions, and key concepts in genetics, molecular biology and biochemistry. The students will also meet with Dr. Kunkel for one hour per week to discuss a variety of topics chosen to explore: i) basic concepts in chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology, ii) learning and study strategies, and iii) other topics related to thriving at WUSTL.

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 1171 First-Year Opportunity: Neuroscience Futures 1: How Do We Learn About the Brain?

 In this seminar course for first-year students, students learn about how neurobiologists conduct and communicate research.  We focus our discussion on primary research papers written by neurobiologists.  Discussion then focuses on the formulation of scientific questions, evaluation of evidence, and interpreting data within the context of a broader field.  Course is for first-year, non-transfer students only.  Must be taken Pass/No Pass.

Credit 1 unit. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 1210 Ampersand: The Science of Biotechnology

Biotechnology is truly interdisciplinary, incorporating a myriad of pieces from biology, chemistry, engineering, physics, computer sciences, management, public policy, and law that apply the scientific process to societal challenges.  This course introduces topics for science and engineering majors with an interest in biotech, and it teaches scientific concepts to business students considering careers in biotech management and entrepreneurship.  Students who complete this course understand key science concepts, how discoveries lead to applications addressing global challenges, how to effectively use a variety of resources to explore connections between science and biotech business, how to synthesize information from different fields, and how to exhibit strong teamwork skills and communicate information in written and oral forms.  This course also provides a gateway for students interested in the two-year Biotech Explorers Program (BEP).  The first two weeks of the course introduce students to the history of biotechnology, the BEP, and the use of case studies.  The remainder of the course uses a series of four three-week units that combine lecture material, in-class group assignments, and readings to introduce the science and scope of biotechnology. For each unit, student teams also develop short case studies of St. Louis biotech companies and present their findings to the class.  A series of site visits introduce students to the vibrant St. Louis biotech community.  This course is for students in the Biotech Explorers Program only.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 1211 Ampersand: Biotechnology Entrepreneurs Seminar

Although the biotech industry is science-based, the risks of product and technology development, legal issues, and market pressures make the landscape full of uncertainty. Lectures and textbooks fall short of delivering true insight about the process and challenges of bringing ideas to real-world products. This second semester freshman seminar course is designed to develop an appreciation of how biotech companies achieve their goals by engaging students through interactions with experienced executives and entrepreneurs, whose shared knowledge and stories add depth and context to the learning process. This 1 credit seminar course introduces students to the basics of innovation and entrepreneurship as a framework for marketable discoveries, builds an appreciation of how biotech companies start, obtain funding, and navigate intellectual property, provides an overview of career options in biotech, and insight on the hiring process. 

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 1212 STARS Seminar

This seminar course is designed for students who are part of the STARS Program at Washington University. The course will provide a formal setting to guide this population into becoming successful researchers in the academic community, with an additional goal of increasing their PhD pursuits. Students in the course will be exposed to scholarly discussions through student-selected journal readings. The course will discuss the different approaches taken to scientific inquiry and the dissemination of knowledge, in addition to the topic of integrity in research and important ethical issues that impact scientific investigation. Students will be exposed to topics relating not only to their area of study but to that of their peers as well. Student presentations on both scholarly journal readings and their own research will enable them to develop the ability to effectively communicate research to a broad audience. From this course, the STARS students will develop the skills to read, understand and critically evaluate publications, and they will build a broad understanding of research in multiple fields within the natural sciences. Students will also come away with a greater understanding of the ethical issues that face the scientific community on a daily basis.

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 1213 Research Seminar for Vagelos Fellows

The course will orient Fellows to the specific research environment of their labs and provide them tools to succeed. It will feature short seminars from world-renowned DBBS faculty and DBBS alums. Speakers will emphasize both their science and their career route into academic research, including challenges. This will expose students to multiple paths into and academic careers associated with biosciences graduate training. Diverse speakers will emphasize the desirability and attainability of research training and careers. This course will also include information on the research enterprise, mentorship expectations, rigorous experimental design, quantitative thinking, techniques, rigorous analysis, posing a scientific question, and communication skills. 2.0 units

Credit 2 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 1442 Ampersand: The Biology of Cancer Part I

Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide. In spite of focused research efforts, cancer still poses a unique biomedical puzzle as it is now recognized that cancer is not a single disease, but rather a collection of many disorders with underlying mechanistic complexities that can affect most tissues in the human body. This interactive 1st-semester course provides an introductory overview of the biology of human cancers. We touch upon background topics in DNA structure and replication, gene regulation and transcription, protein synthesis, mutations and DNA repair, but the primary focus is on the genetic and molecular changes that normal cells undergo during transformation into malignant tumors. Part I highlights the first three (of eight) central characteristics of cancer (known as the hallmarks of cancer) - sustained proliferation, evasion of growth suppression, and replicative immortality. The course is a mix of lectures, student-led discussions/presentations, and activities. Lectures provide an overview of each topic, while activities and discussions of cutting-edge oncology topics in the news and primary literature familiarize students with current trends in cancer research as well as enhance reading and critical analysis skills. Students choose a specific topic/theme within the cancer paradigm for further study and near the end of the semester prepare a presentation to the class on the implications for cancer survivorship. Restricted to first-year students in the Hallmarks of Cancer & Patient Care program.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 1443 Ampersand: The Biology of Cancer Part II

Cancer is poised to overtake heart disease as the number one cause of death in the United States and represents a significant burden to the U.S. health system. As such, a deeper understanding of the underlying biology of human cancers and their treatment modalities will be important for those pursuing a future in the health sciences. In this interactive 2nd-semester course, we continue our exploration of the "hallmarks of cancer," emphasizing the dysfunction of essential biological processes like cell proliferation, programmed cell death, energy metabolism, and immune surveillance. Classical diagnosis and treatment methods are compared with newer strategies, such as targeted and immune therapies. Finally, the growing role of personalized medicine and "omics" technologies in tumor classification, patient prognosis, and therapy are discussed. The course is a mix of lectures, student-led discussions/presentations, and activities. Lectures provide an overview of each topic, while activities and discussions of cutting-edge oncology topics in the news and primary literature familiarize students with current trends in cancer research/treatment as well as enhance reading and critical analysis skills. Students choose a specific type of cancer for further study and near the end of the semester prepare a presentation to the class on its molecular and cellular etiology, epidemiology, pathology, diagnosis, and current/future treatment options.  

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 1499 First-Year Opportunity: Molecular Biology of Genetic Disease

This course is for first-year, non-transfer students only. Students gain a fluency in biological language, methods, and reasoning as applied to human health. We study the molecular, cellular, and physiological perspectives for each health-related topic, and examine data and methods that support this knowledge. We emphasize problem-solving and reasoning as it applies to understanding biological processes. The content and problem-solving work are designed to help students prepare for Biology 2960, which is offered each spring semester. Intended for students without strong AP Biology preparation, which is helpful for success in Biology 2960

Credit 2 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 1530 Special Topics in Biology: Plant-Microbe Interactions

This is a research-based laboratory course offered by Dr. Barbara Kunkel in the Biology Department. The small class size and laboratory setting of the course are intended to foster development of student-professor mentoring relationships. Research Question: Microbial organisms play very important roles in the lives of plants and animals. For example, in nature as well as in agricultural settings, the communities of microorganisms that grow on or near plants influence the growth and overall health of these plants. Each year the students in the course explore a different topic related to interactions between plants and their associated microbes. During the coming academic year our research will focus on virulence mechanisms used by the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae to promote disease in plants. The Kunkel lab has shown that the plant hormone auxin promotes disease development in interactions between P. syringae strain PtoDC3000 and one of its hosts, Arabidopsis thaliana, a small plant commonly used by researchers to study fundamental aspects of plant biology. Auxin acts through at least two different mechanisms to promote disease, including 1) suppressing defense responses in the plant and 2) regulating gene expression in the pathogen. We will investigate this second activity by screening for and characterizing PtoDC3000 mutants that do not properly respond to auxin. Students will spend two hours per week in lab carrying out bacteriological and molecular biology experiments. Over the course of the semester, students will be exposed to a variety of fundamental topics in biology, including: microbiology, plant growth and development, plant-microbe interactions, and key concepts in genetics, molecular biology and biochemistry. The students will also meet with Dr. Kunkel for one hour per week to discuss a variety of topics chosen to explore: i) basic concepts in chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology, ii) learning and study strategies, and iii) other topics related to thriving at Wash U.

Credit 1 unit. Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 1531 Biology in the News

Students explore a number of biology topics that are frequently discussed in the media. We begin with an investigation into how to evaluate scientific claims reported in written (e.g., news articles, blogs, social media posts), visual (e.g., YouTube videos, Instagram posts) and audio media (e.g., podcasts). We then explore the topics of genetic modification, GMOs, cloning, and direct-to-consumer home DNA testing kits. Finally, we investigate medical topics, including cancer, vaccines and antibiotic resistance. We emphasize critical thinking and reasoning as it applies to the acceptance or rejection of scientific claims presented in popular media formats. This course is intended for students not majoring in biology and who would like to learn more about scientific topics portrayed in the media as controversial and under debate.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 1812 First-Year Opportunity: Introduction to Cutting-Edge Research in Biology

A lecture course intended for first-year students that focuses on the practice and culture of biological research.  Active researchers describe the biological context of their research, the specific questions they have formulated, the means by which they pursue the answers, and their data and conclusions. The focus is on process: how biologists pursue their profession, what goes on in a research setting. Additional topics of clinical and contemporary interest are often included. Students are expected to attend all lectures.  Enrollment is restricted to first-year non-transfer students. Must be taken Pass/No Pass.

Credit 1 unit. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 1910 Ampersand: Phage Hunters

A research-based laboratory class for First-Year students. Students join a national experiment organized by HHMI, with the goal of isolating and characterizing bacteriophage viruses found in the soil in the St. Louis area. Laboratory work includes isolation and purification of your own phage, DNA isolation and restriction mapping, and EM characterization of your phage. Several WU phage are selected for genome sequencing over winter break, and are annotated in the spring in BIOL 1920, Phage Bioinformatics. Students who successfully isolate and annotate a phage may become co-authors on a scientific paper. High school courses in biology and chemistry recommended. One hour lecture, one hour discussion, and 3 hrs lab per week. Course is for first-year students in the Phage Hunters Program only.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 1920 Ampersand: Phage Bioinformatics

 New description: A research-based laboratory class for First-Year students. Students join a national experiment organized by HHMI, with the goal of genomic characterization of a local phage. Laboratory work focuses on learning computer-based tools for genome analysis followed by annotation and comparative analysis of the genome of a phage (bacterial virus) that was isolated fall semester at WU and sequenced over winter break. High school courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, at least one at the AP or International Baccalaureate level recommended. Preference given to those completing BIOL 1910 Ampersand: Phage Hunters. One hour lecture, one hour discussion, and 3 hrs lab per week. Course is for first-year students in the Phage Hunters Program only.

Credit 3 units. Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 1995 Biology Coursework Completed Abroad

This course is for study abroad credits.

Credit 12 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

BIOL 1996 Elective: 100-Level

This course is for elective or transfer credits.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2150 Introduction to Environmental Biology

Introduction to Environmental Biology is designed to teach important principles of environmental biology and general science literacy skills. The course is threaded around a central organizing question: how can we feed a growing and more urbanized human population and conserve biodiversity without destroying the planet? We focus on the foundational biological principles involved in four main topics in the context of some contentious and confusing issues related to environmental biology in everyday life: human population growth, biological fluxes of carbon and energy in the ecosystem, biodiversity and conservation, and sustainable agriculture. The science literacy skills that are covered in this course help students face scientific and pseudoscientific claims about the environment and society in everyday life and will form the foundation for your development as a critical consumer of science information in the media. This course is taught in an active learning format utilizing reading homework before class to learn content and a mix of active student discussion and short lectures during class. Grades are based on homework, unit quizzes, and scientific literacy projects. This is an introductory course designed for first and second year students, though students of all years have found the course impactful and meaningful. Students will be manually assigned to a section by the instructor after add/drop is over; sections allow assignment into groups with dedicated TAs, but all section-based work happens during the main course time slot.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 2196 Practical Applications

Credit for an internship in Biology.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

BIOL 2440 Ampersand: The Oncology Healthcare Team

It's news no one wants to hear: You have cancer. A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. The physical and emotional effects that come with this disease and its treatment can be significant. People often need the experience and skills of several different medical specialists to navigate and treat cancer. The various medical professionals involved in cancer care make up the oncology healthcare team. In this third-semester course, we will partner with Siteman Cancer Center and its affiliates to explore the multitude of professions that constitute the oncology healthcare team. In bi-weekly rotations, students will be introduced to various aspects of cancer-patient care and treatment through members of the oncology healthcare team, including oncologists, pathologists, surgeons, clinical geneticists, nurses, psychologists, and public health professionals. The course is a mix of guest lectures, discussions, site visits, activities, and shadowing healthcare professionals. Students will reflect on their experiences in weekly journal entries and must submit a final reflection paper that is due at the end of the semester, synthesizing semester experiences with core competencies for individuals desiring to enter a health profession. Enrollment is limited to students in the Hallmarks of Cancer & Patient Care program.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 2444 The Language of Cancer

Words matter. This is especially true for the patients (and their families) who hear the diagnosis “cancer,” but also for the physicians who treat these patients, and for the academic researchers who are seeking better treatments. We will begin by considering Illness as Metaphor, the influential 1978 work in which Susan Sontag claims that metaphorical language distorts our understanding of cancer and other illnesses. We will move on to consider both the diction and syntax used with cancer in a sampling of academic papers, creative works, and long-form personal writings. Students will write both analytical and reflective pieces responding to those materials. They will also learn to read, interpret, and assemble presentations from biomedical research. Three presentations over the course of the semester will allow students to develop the skills in oral communication essential to careers in health care. Limited to students in the “Hallmarks of Cancer & Patient Care” program.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: HUM BU: HUM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 2650 Summer Experiences in Life Sciences

 New Description: Earn credit for clinical research and other non-classroom learning in the life sciences during the summer. The variety of activities arranged by the student with their WashU faculty mentor have included but are not limited to: participation in clinical research or applied ecological research and report on it; shadow a physician on rounds or in clinic; prepare a paper on an organ system or disease; participate in science outreach teaching, etc. Participants must meet regularly with the faculty mentor or designee and commit to 80 or 160 hours determined by the Summer Schedule Type selected by the student at application.  An application is required each semester which includes a work plan, that must be approved by both the Faculty Mentor and Course Master prior to registration. A Semester Summary/Progress Report is due on the last day of class for the summer scheduled type selected by the student. Does not count toward the Biology major/minor. Credit: 1.5 or 3.0 units determined by the Summer Schedule Type selected by the student at application. For more information and to access the application, please go to: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio265/. Students are registered by the Biology department after faculty mentor and course master approval is granted, do not submit override requests for this course. Summer Application Deadline - First Friday of June.

Credit 1.5 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 2651 MedPrep I-The Lecture Series

MedPrep I is a unique, interactive lecture series where the entire educational path of becoming a physician is reviewed. This course is particularly helpful for first-year and sophomore students in helping them obtain an authentic, accurate, and comprehensive view of the life of a physician and the process it takes to get there. This course reviews what makes a competitive applicant for medical school and what it takes to be successful in the application process, medical school, residency, and beyond. It helps students develop a road map for their four years of college and encourages them to reflect on whether medicine is the right career for them. Students also have the opportunity to talk with current medical students and resident physicians about their life in medical school and residency, respectively. MedPrep I is a prerequisite for MedPrep II, the shadowing course that takes place in the Charles F. Knight Emergency and Trauma Center of Barnes-Jewish Hospital, the main teaching hospital for the Washington University School of Medicine. There is no outside coursework and no exams, so this course can be taken with the busiest of course schedules. Class attendance is required. A $10 course fee applies. For more details about the course, please see the website at: http://medprep.wustl.edu/.

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2661 Experience in the Life Sciences

 Earn credit for non-classroom learning in the life sciences in a variety of activities arranged by the student: accompany a WashU Faculty physician on rounds and prepare a paper on an organ system or disease, participate in clinical research or an applied ecological study and report on it, participate in science outreach teaching, etc. Participants must meet regularly with a supervisor and commit at least 160 hours over two semesters. A work plan approved by both the Faculty Mentor and Course Master is required for the application prior to registration. A Semester Summary/Progress report is due on the last day of classes each semester. Does not count toward the  Biology major or minor. Credit: 1.5 units per semester, contingent upon completion of two semesters. For more information on registration, please see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio265/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted, do not submit override requests for this course. 

Credit 1-1.5 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2901 Introduction to Research

An introduction to laboratory and field research in biology for first and second year students (or students who have completed less than 60 credits overall). Students work under the supervision of a sponsor in a setting of established, ongoing research. For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted. 

Credit 1-3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2902 Introduction to Research in Neuroscience

An introduction to research in neuroscience for first and second year students (or students who have completed less than 60 credits overall).  Students work under the supervision of a mentor in a setting of established, ongoing research. For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted.

Credit 1-3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2903 Summer Introduction to Research

Summer research under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Prerequisites: first-year or sophomore standing and permission of mentor and the department. Credit to be determined in each case, usually 3 units/summer; may be repeated for credit in different summers. Credits are received in the fall semester following the summer research. The application deadline and registration information can be found on the Bio 200/500 course website: https://pages.wustl.edu/Bio_200-500_independent_research. Pass/No Pass Only. Course may not be taken for a letter grade. 1-3 units

Credit 1-3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 2904 Summer Introduction to Research in Neuroscience

 Summer research under the supervision of a faculty sponsor in a setting of established, ongoing research. An introduction to laboratory and field research in biology for first and second year students (or students who have completed less than 60 credits overall). Credits are received in the fall semester following the summer research. For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted.

Credit 1-3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 2960 Principles of Biology I

The course provides an introduction to cell biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. An understanding of cellular structure and mechanisms, and the properties of biological macromolecules are integrated with a discussion of the flow of genetic information within cells. Examples of how these concepts can be applied to selected areas in modern biology will be discussed. Weekly labs reinforce material from lectures and explore common laboratory techniques and computer-based resources. Completion of Chem 1601 or Chem 1701 and concurrent enrollment in Chem 1602 or Chem 1702 are strongly recommended but not required. The 48-student sections are taught in a flipped-classroom format and in active-learning classrooms (pending request). Students will be required to prepare for each class by watching a video and/or completing a short assignment, then will spend class time working in small groups on in-class activities. The 300-student sections will be taught in traditional lecture classrooms with both short lectures and in-class activities occurring during class time. All sections take the same exams and have the same accompanying lab.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring, Summer

BIOL 2964 MedPrep II - The Shadowing Experience: Emergency Medicine

MedPrep II offers students a real world, behind-the-scenes experience of a life in medicine. For four hours every other week, students shadow physicians in the Charles F. Knight Emergency and Trauma Center of Barnes-Jewish Hospital, the main teaching hospital of the WashU School of Medicine. In addition to shadowing, there is a required class session every other week. Because of the orientation material presented, we strongly recommend in person attendance at first class/orientation. We cover critical information about the course and logistics regarding scheduling of shadowing shifts. If you have a conflict, please contact the course instructor before the date of orientation. There is no outside course work and no exams. A $25 course fee for a MedPrep shirt and other course-related items (e.g. AV items and other course-related items) will be charged to the student account. HIPAA training and TB testing are required for this course. Students have 30 days to complete these requirements after receiving instructions via email, or forfeit their spot in the course (extensions are granted for students who are studying abroad). For more information about course requirements, please see the MedPrep website at medprep.wustl.edu. Registration is now completed via Workday, no longer through the MedPrep website.

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2965 Pediatric Emergency Medicine Research Associates Program: Experiences in Life Sciences

The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Research Associates Program (PEMRAP) offers undergraduate pre-medical students an opportunity to participate in clinical, patient-oriented research projects in a hospital setting. Students have the opportunity to work in the St. Louis Children's Hospital Emergency Department, a nationally recognized pediatric emergency medicine and trauma care facility. A number of research projects are currently underway in various areas of pediatric emergency medicine. Research Associates are expected to work two 4-hour shifts per week in the St. Louis Children's Hospital Emergency Department and attend a weekly 2-hour lecture on Tuesdays from 1:30-3:30pm in Conference Room 10A of the Northwest Tower Building (Medical Campus). Lectures are given by Emergency Department faculty members. This program offers students the unique opportunity to be a vital part of the Emergency Department research team. In addition, the experience gained in the ED may help the student determine if medicine is truly the career path they wish to choose. Registration is done through this website: http://pediatrics.wustl.edu/pemrap. May not be taken concurrently with BIOL 2654 MEDPREP II. The medical school requires all visiting learners to sign up for a Clinical Exchange account and to register with the Missouri Family Care Safety, the student will be responsible for the cost of registration.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2966 Introduction to Health Professions: Audiology, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, and Physical Therapy

This course provides students interested in health professions with an overview of occupational therapy, physical therapy, audiology, and pharmacy. Students gain a better understanding of the scope of practice, markets, and skills required to succeed in these professions. Students learn about graduate and professional education options and how to build a competitive application for these programs. Finally, students participate in self-directed learning experiences (which may include in-person or virtual shadowing, attending professional presentations, meeting with health care professionals or graduate students, or sitting in on graduate-level classes) and culminate their study with an inter-professional education session with a panel of faculty from the different health professions. Students finish the course with a better understanding of whether a career in health professions is right for them.

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 2968 Pediatric Emergency Medicine Research Associates Program - Experiences in Life Sciences (PEMRAP II)

PEMRAP II is a continuation of PEMRAP I. Returning PEMRAP Research Associates (RAs) actively participate in new and ongoing research projects in various areas of pediatric emergency medicine. RAs assist during the active period of patient enrollment through screening of ED patients for study eligibility, reading information about the studies to the patients, collecting data regarding patient history and certain physical examination findings, and generally facilitating the study enrollment process. PEMRAP Returning RAs are vital members of the Emergency Department research team in the St. Louis Children's Hospital Emergency Department. Returning RAs assist in training and mentoring incoming PEMRAP students in ED protocol, work approximately one 4-hour shift per week in the ED, record shift activities and hours worked on a daily Shift Log form, and participate in the physician shadowing program (as offered). Returning RAs are responsible for meeting hospital non-appointee requirements and stay current with new study protocols by attending or viewing new study presentations for PEMRAP students. These lectures are given by Pediatric Department faculty members introducing the basics of the clinical research process, specific studies, as well as pediatric illness. The RA position carries with it important responsibility requiring maturity, initiative, diligence and excellent interpersonal skills. There is no outside course work and no exams. Full participation is required. 44 shift hours = 1 credit. Registration is done through this website: http://pediatrics.wustl.edu/pemrap. May not be taken concurrently with BIOL 2654 MEDPREP II. The medical school requires all visiting learners to sign up for a Clinical Exchange account and to register with the Missouri Family Care Safety, the student will be responsible for the cost of registration.

Credit 2 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 2970 Principles of Biology II

A broad overview of genetics, including Mendelian assortment, linkage, chromosomal aberrations, variations in chromosome number, mutation, developmental genetics, quantitative genetics, population genetics, mechanisms of evolution, and phylogenetics. Three lecture/problem solving sections and one laboratory period per week. Does not fulfill the laboratory requirement of the biology major. This course must be taken for a grade to count towards the Biology major.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Summer

BIOL 2995 Biology Coursework Completed Abroad

This course is for study abroad credits.

Credit 12 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

BIOL 2996 Elective: 200-Level

This course is for elective or transfer credits.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 3010 Biotechnology Project

This second year Biotech Explorers Pathway (BEP) course introduces students to the process used to generate project ideas, write proposals, and evaluate concepts, with peer evaluation applied at all steps of the process. Students completing this course will gain experience in science proposal writing with peer review, public speaking, team building, and leadership training. The first four weeks of the course will focus on individual pre-proposal brainstorming, writing, and pitching, while the remainder of the course will be dedicated to the development of full proposals by teams of students. This 3-credit project development course complements introductory courses by making connections between fields and building teams of students with experience in the process that nurtures ideas to products.  Writing Intensive.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3030 Human Biology

The goal of the course is to help the non-biologist better understand what is happening inside their own body and to become a better informed consumer of science and medicine. We will explore common diseases and treatments, new drug discovery efforts, and research into health and longevity. By the end of the course, students will have the tools and understanding to better evaluate medical products and claims and headlines about medical advances.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring, Summer

BIOL 3041 Plant Biology and Genetic Engineering

A 4 credit lecture course that provides an introduction to plant development, genetics, physiology and biochemistry with emphasis on processes that can be manipulated or better understood through genetic engineering. The course is divided into 3 sections. The first section of the course discusses basic plant biology, development and genetics. The second part of the course emphasizes gene structure, expression, and cloning as well as methods for introducing foreign DNA into plant cells and regenerating fertile plants in tissue culture. During the third part of the course we will discuss a variety of examples of genetically engineered traits, including: herbicide resistance; fruit ripening; pathogen and/or insect resistance; the use of plants for production of industrial and pharmaceutical compounds. Friday discussion sections focus on critical reading of the primary literature related to the material covered in lecture.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3057 Physiological Control Systems

 Systems physiology with emphasis on human physiology. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring, Summer

BIOL 3100 R Workshop in Biology

 Biologists in all areas increasingly find that they have the need and opportunity to work with large data sets. The goal of this 1-credit course is to provide students with an opportunity to gain skills in data analysis and presentation using R, a free software environment for statistical computing and graphics (http://www.r-project.org). Topics include an introduction to basic programming in R, data types and manipulation, graphics, hypothesis testing and statistics, and applications to various fields of biology ranging from ecology to genomics. The course consists of ten, two-hour workshops that include a brief introduction to key concepts in R and applications in biology, followed by interactive, hands-on tutorials. 

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3110 Vertebrate Structure Laboratory

A lecture/laboratory course designed to provide an integrative framework for how vertebrate form and function evolved. Weekly lectures emphasize development and the relationship between the structural and functional design of organ systems, the importance of these relationships in maintaining homeostasis while providing opportunity for adaptation, and examples of how vertebrate organ systems communicate to accomplish functional and physiological integration. 1.5 hr lecture and 5 hrs lab each week.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 3111 Human and Comparative Anatomy

A lecture/laboratory course designed to provide an integrative framework for how vertebrate, including human, form and function evolved. Weekly lectures emphasize development and the relationship between the structural and functional design of the organ system with an emphasis on human systems, the importance of these relationships in maintaining homeostasis while providing opportunity for adaptation, and examples of how vertebrate organ systems communicate to accomplish functional and physiological integration. The laboratory involves study of vertebrates and digital dissection of the human form (Anatomage) from simplest to most complex. Students examine changes in structure/function at the gross anatomy and microscopic levels. 2 hr lecture (50 minutes 2x a week) and 5 hrs lab each week (2.5 hrs 2x a week).

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 3151 Endocrinology

 An overview of mammalian endocrine systems with an emphasis on human physiology and development. The interplay between systemic, local cell, and tissue interactions as well as the cell and molecular events associated with hormone action discussed. Examples of endocrine evolution and pathological conditions related to endocrine imbalances also included.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3172 Biology for Climate Change Solutions

Human-induced climate change poses a pressing and pervasive threat to both human populations and to the biological world. The challenges of climate change are manifest and well known, increasing temperatures, greater variability of weather, sea level rise, leading to a host of consequences. Adapting to and mitigating climate change are essential activities for confronting the threats of climate change. The biological sciences offer great potential for addressing these threats. This course focus on efforts in biological research to adapt and to mitigate climate change. Topics will range across the biological sciences from microbial engineering and biotechnology to zoonotic diseases and one health, to ecosystem function and conservation of biodiversity. The course consists of lectures, discussion of assigned readings, and class projects. Class projects focus on science topics that addresses new approaches to climate adaptation and mitigation and constitute both of a written paper and class presentation. The goals of this class are: (1) to develop an understanding of basic climate science and the biological aspects of climate change, ( 2) to develop knowledge of the biological efforts towards adaption and mitigation for climate solutions. The class is open to both non-science and science majors. The course does not count for the biology major. 

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3183 A History of Genetics in the 20th Century

After a brief survey of pre-twentieth-century theories of heredity, this course examines the work of Gregor Mendel and its rediscovery in 1900, and its expansion as an interfield theory in combination with the chromosome theory, pioneered beginning in 1910 by T.H. Morgan at Columbia and R.A. Emerson at Cornell, and led to the expansion of classical genetics up to World War II. The beginnings of biochemical and molecular genetics in the 1920s and 1930s developed rapidly after the war with the double-helix theory of DNA and the rise of molecular genetics. The course ends with examination of the Human Genome Project (Initiative) and the ramifications of genetic biotechnology. Throughout, emphasis is placed not only on the technical and theoretical developments comprising genetics as an epistemic field, but also on the economic, social, political and philosophical interconnections between genetics and society. Agriculture, medicine and the ideology of social control (including such movements as eugenics and Nazi race hygiene) both influenced, and were influenced by genetics, and played an integral part in the construction of the science itself. Readings are drawn from the primary and secondary literature. There is a mid-term, final and periodic student reports. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3240 Human Genetics

This course will provide a comprehensive overview of genetics as it pertains to medicine, emphasizing the use of genomic technologies to enhance our understanding and treatment of human disease. Key topics include the structure and function of the human genome, genetic variability, DNA sequencing technologies, cytogenetic methods, human genetic disorders, mechanisms underlying genetic disease, novel disease gene discovery, clinical genetic testing, clinical bioinformatics, variant interpretation, precision medicine, pharmacogenomics, assisted reproductive technologies, genetic counseling, and the ethical and legal issues associated with modern genetic advances. Biochemistry recommended. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3280 Principles in Human Physiology

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the function, regulation, and integration of the major organ systems of the body. Course content includes neural and hormonal homeostatic mechanisms, and study of the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, immune and reproductive organ systems. Mechanisms of exercise physiology are integrated throughout the course. BIOL 3057 - Physiological Control Systems is recommended but not required. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3340 Cell Biology

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3371 Eukaryotic Genomes

An advanced exploration of the structure and function of DNA within the eukaryotic nucleus. Lecture and discussion cover topics of chromatin and chromosome structure, control of gene transcription, RNA processing, and DNA replication and repair. The relevance of these topics to the genetic basis of human disease is discussed. Throughout, the experimental data that shape our current understanding are emphasized. Course grades based on exams, problem sets and short papers. Lecture 3 hours per week plus required discussion section meeting every other week. Prerequisites: Bio 2970, Chem 261 (may be taken concurrently). Offered every other fall in even numbered years.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3411 Principles of the Nervous System

This course will provide a broad introduction to neuroscience, starting at the level of cellular and molecular neuroscience, and ultimately ending at systems and theoretical neuroscience, with emphasis on the organization of the mammalian central nervous system. Topics will include neuronal structure, the action potential, information transmission between neurons, sensory/motor systems, emotion, memory, disease, drugs, behavior, and network dynamics. A fundamental goal of this course is to provide students with the ability to approach complex problems using the scientific method and to understand the limits of knowledge. This course will also expose students to some of the neuroscience community at WashU. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3421 Introduction to Neuroethology

The neural mechanisms of animal behavior from an evolutionary and ecological perspective. Topics include: contributions of model systems to understanding fundamental properties of nervous system structure and function; electrical signals of sensory cells, neurons, and muscle; neural processing of sensory input; neural control of behavioral output; anatomy and physiology of sensory and motor systems; learning and memory; evolution of neural circuits. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3422 Genes, Brains, and Behavior

Genetic studies of physiological systems underlying animal behavior, including the genetic basis for normal and abnormal behaviors in animals and humans. Topics include: history of behavioral genetics; the ongoing debate about nature vs. nurture; contributions of genetic model systems including the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, zebrafish, the mouse Mus musculus, and other animal models; molecular mechanisms underlying the evolution of behavioral phenotypes; the emerging role of epigenetics in regulating nervous-system functions and behavior; the use of genetic and genomic analyses in studies of human behavior and psychiatric disorders. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3423 Behavioral Genetics Laboratory

This course introduces students to fundamental concepts about how genes govern behavior by using the model system Drosophila melanogaster. Students learn modern and classic laboratory techniques including fly crossing, genetic screens, and behavioral assays. Specifically, we use the UAS/Gal4 system to drive cell-specific RNAi to investigate the role of ion channels in stress-induced generalized seizures. A primary goal of the course is to develop real-world research skills by having students design, propose, and execute a set of novel research questions. Statistical analysis and interpretation of data collected by the students are emphasized. To build a solid conceptual background, lectures are given once per week, and students read, analyze, and discuss primary research articles. Understanding is assessed through journal club assignments and presentations, research reports, and a final presentation of experimental results. Please do not submit override requests to the instructor. Contact Erin Gerrity (gerrity@wustl.edu) to be added to the waitlist. Students will be enrolled by the department from this outside waitlist.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3424 Great Discoveries in Neuroscience

A discussion-based course for advanced undergraduates in neuroscience that focuses on discoveries with major impacts on our understandings of how brains function. Readings include: Gordon Shepherd's book "Creating Modern Neuroscience: The Revolutionary 1950s"; papers in neuroscience of Nobel Laureates, Kavli Neuroscience Prize winners, and Brain Prize winners; and papers of great discoveries with the potential to inspire future revolutions in the field. Attendance at class meetings is required. Weekly written assignments include descriptions of course readings and summaries of discussions at class meetings. Counts toward the Advanced Biology Elective requirement of the Biology: Neuroscience major. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3430 Plants, People and the Environment

Human life, health, and civilization depend on plants. This course introduces basic plant biology, the role of plants in natural ecosystems, and the various uses of plants in both traditional cultures and in developed countries. Topics include the medicinal uses of plants, domestication of plants for agriculture, biotechnology and plant conservation. Does not count toward upper-division credits required for the major.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3470 Darwin and Evolutionary Controversies

Focus is on controversies in evolutionary biology from Darwin's day to the present. Most of the controversies concern scientific issues such as Kelvin's estimate of age of the earth, Jenkin's argument against blending inheritance, neutral variations, effects of isolation on the role of selection, mass extinction and nemesis, but some address social issues such as evolutionary ethics and scientific creationism. Emphasis in the readings is on primary sources, including Darwin's Origin of Species. Writing Intensive. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3481 Parasitology

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of parasitism. Throughout the semester, students not only learn about parasite biology (examples: parasite life cycles, host immune responses, parasite evasion mechanisms), but also how parasites make a broader impact (examples: co-evolution of hosts and parasites, parasites as indicators of environmental health, the challenge of parasite control). Topics include, but are not limited to, parasite diversity and classification, life cycles, host evasion mechanisms, pathology, disease, control, types of hosts and their immune responses, and the impact that parasites have on ecology and conservation biology. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3490 Microbiology

This four credit lecture course focuses on the molecular biology of bacteria, archaea, and viruses. Topics include: the bacterial cell cycle, gene regulation, stress response, cell-cell communication, viral and bacterial pathogenesis, microbial ecology, and metabolic diversity. Friday tutorials stress analysis of the primary literature with an emphasis on current research related to material covered in lecture. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3491 Microbiology Laboratory

After introducing students to the basics of bacterial growth and maintenance, this laboratory class employs microscopy, genetics, cell biology, and genomics to explore various aspects of bacterial physiology, structure, and identification. Students will present finding throughout the semester in both written and oral format. Roughly one hour lecture and five hours of laboratory per week. Fulfills the upper - level laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Check section description for latest lab enrollment link.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

BIOL 3492 Laboratory Experiments With Eukaryotic Microbes

This research-intensive course provides an introduction to diverse molecular and cell biology techniques used in model experimental organisms to explore fundamental biological questions. Experiments are performed using selected fungi and protozoans commonly used in major research efforts. Emphasis is placed on choosing the appropriate organism for the question posed using the most current technologies. Each semester, one cellular process is studied in detail and original research is carried out. Prerequisites: Bio 2960 and 2970 and permission of instructor-- contact early to ensure enrollment. One hour of lecture and six hours of laboratory a week. Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Enrollment limited to 12.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3493 Bacterial Bioprospecting and Biotechnology

Bacteria are popularized as agents of disease, spoilage and decay.  But in reality, bacteria are also incredibly beneficial.  They’re essential in the food industry (fermentation of meats, cheeses, and beverages), agriculture (crop protection against weeds, pathogenic bacteria, and fungi), biotechnology (fine chemicals, cofactors, amino acids, and industrial enzymes) and the pharmaceutical industry (producing clinical antibiotics, anticancer, antiviral, veterinary, and immunomodulatory drugs and more).  This course is designed to give students hands-on experience with beneficial bacteria. It provides immersive, experiential learning in translating basic biological understanding into the discovery of bacterial products and activities useful to humankind. Modern biotechnological research is multidisciplinary. This lab combines core concepts from biochemistry, bacterial genetics, bioinformatics, chemistry and enzymology to study bacteria from the genus Streptomyces and their close relatives.  These organisms produce over 50% of our clinically utilized antibiotics, produce industrial enzymes, and are commercialized as agricultural biocontrol agents. Commitment: Six hours of laboratory plus one hour of computation/lecture/other lab time per week.  Textbook: No textbook required.  Students rely on handouts, whiteboard protocols and flow charts, plus assigned Journal Article and/or Review Article readings. At least two of the following courses are strongly recommended: Microbiology (Biol 3490), Organic Chemistry (Chem 1601/1602) and/or Biochemistry (Biol 4510 or CHEM 4810).  This is an upper level, research-format microbiology laboratory course taught through the multidisciplinary lens of biotechnology. This course is designed as an NSF-CURE (Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience). 

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 3494 Microbes and the Environment

From the origins of life to global biogeochemical cycling. An examination of microbes (archaea, bacteria, fungi, yeasts, protist and viruses) in the vast array of environments in which they occur, from wetlands and lake sediments, aquifers and deep crustal settings, to polar ice and desert surfaces. Emphasis on the roles that microbes play in biogeochemical cycles, redox processes, contaminant mobility, biodegradation, and ecosystem productivity. The emphasis will be placed on case studies and students will be expected to participate in-class discussions. Organic Chemistry strongly recommended. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3501 Evolution

A general survey of evolutionary biology, covering both micro- and macroevolution. Topics include natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, sexual selection, kin selection, pathogen evolution, speciation, phylogenetics, molecular evolution and evolutionary-developmental biology. Weekly discussion sections focus on analysis of recent studies related to lecture topics. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3700 Animal Behavior

This course examines animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective and explores the relationships between animal behavior, ecology, and evolution. Topics include foraging behavior, mating systems, sexual selection, predator-prey relationships, cooperation and altruism, competition and parental care. A student may not receive credit for more than one of the courses Biol 3700, Biol 3720 and Biol 4720. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3810 Introduction to Ecology

This course explores central principles in ecology. It emphasizes understanding ecosystem processes, population dynamics, and species interactions. It regularly touches on applications of these principles to anthropogenic environmental change. Principles of experimental design, quantitative data analysis and interpretation, and mathematical models are critical to the field of ecology and are also emphasized throughout the course. Class meetings will include lectures, class activities, computer simulation labs, and smaller group discussions to familiarize students with peer-reviewed journals, scientific writing, and current issues in ecology. Assignments include regular homework reading, occasional problem sets, and participation in tutorials/discussions. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 3990 Undergraduate Teaching

Exceptional undergraduates serve as teaching assistants for laboratory and/or discussion sections in departmental courses. Normally 2 or 3 units are given a semester, subject to the approval of the instructor and the department. Credit may not be counted toward fulfilling the biology major; application form in Department of Biology office. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Credit /No Credit only.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 3991 Undergraduate Teaching

Exceptional undergraduates serve as teaching assistants for laboratory and/or discussion sections in departmental courses. Normally 2 or 3 units are given per semester, subject to the approval of the instructor and the department. Credit may not be counted toward fulfilling the biology major; application form in Department of Biology Student Affairs office. Credit /No Credit only.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 3995 Biology Coursework Completed Abroad

This course is for study abroad credits.

Credit 12 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

BIOL 3996 Elective: 300-Level

This course is for elective or transfer credits.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4000 Introduction to Biochemistry

This course provides a basic understanding of the molecular structure of biomolecules, the metabolic processes by which these molecules are synthesized and degraded, and the energy produced to support cellular processes. It includes a study of enzyme kinetics and metabolic control mechanisms. Prerequisite: Chem 261 (either with lab or lecture only is acceptable) or permission of instructor. Priority given to students enrolled in the Post-Baccalaureate Premedical program.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4005 Advances in Cellular & Molecular Biology

This course will examine some of the fundamental principles of cellular processes at the molecular level. Among the major topics covered are nucleic acid chemistry, gene structure and organization in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, gene expression, and recombinant DNA and transgenic/knockout (including conditional knockout) mouse technology. The topic of the CRISPR/Cas system used for gene editing is also be included. In addition, the idea of genes and genomes will be discussed with an introduction to functional and comparative genomics. In particular, emphasis in the second half of the semester will be on the various modes of regulation of gene expression and protein synthesis, and some of the various methodologies utilized to address these topics. In addition, the concepts of siRNA, miRNA, and the phenomenon of RNA-interference will be covered with the topic of micro-RNA and disease, and the importance of these small non-coding RNA molecules, highlighted by presentation of material from the scientific literature. Also included will be a major publication showing how RNA interference can be used as a tool to unlock the secrets of human embryonic stem cells. A number of commonly used molecular biology and biochemical lab techniques will also be covered, in addition to more recent tools such as RNA seq that can be used to address global changes in transcriptional profiles. This course does not count toward the undergraduate biology major. MA in Biology students should register for BIOL 5005. Undergrads and PBPM students should register for 4005.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4010 Biology of Mammals

Biology 4010 is an introduction to the biology of mammals.  In this course, students will gain familiarity with the diversity of mammals, as well as a deep understanding of their anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, biogeography and evolution.  A weekly discussion/laboratory section will include examination of skeletal material from the department anatomy collection, providing the opportunity to see the diversity of mammals first-hand.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4026 How Plants Work: Physiology, Growth, and Metabolism

 This course introduces students to the fundamentals of how plants grow, metabolize and respond to their environment. Topics to be covered include the conversion of light energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis and carbon fixation, nitrogen assimilation, water and mineral uptake and transport, source-sink relationships and long-distance transport of carbon and nitrogen, cell growth and expansion, hormone physiology and physiological responses to a changing environment. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4027 Viruses and the Diseases They Cause

The goal of this course is to discuss different families of viruses that are important human pathogens. For each of these families of viruses we will discuss the following three aspects as it relates to their clinical significance. 1. The diseases that they cause. The clinical manifestations, the geographic extent of these infections, the consequences of these infections on the populations affected by the virus being discussed. 2. Mechanisms they use to evade host defense mechanisms. Each of these families of viruses have a unique set of factors that they produce that enable them to evade host responses. We will discuss these factors and how they specifically target our responses to the infections they cause. 3. Current therapies used to treat these viral infections. This would include both drug therapies, immunizations and even environmental aspects that predispose a particular geographic region to infection by a specific class of viruses. Each class will involve both lecture and discussion of relevant publications that are associated with the topic being discussed that class. There will be two exams, a mid-term and a final that will not be cumulative. NOTE: this course does not count toward the undergraduate Biology major, it is intended for MA in Biology students, however undergrads are welcome to take it. MA in Biology students should register for L41 5026.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4030 Biological Clocks

 Biological clocks are the endogenous oscillators that coordinate physiological and behavioral rhythms in nearly all organisms.  This course examines how these rhythms are generated and regulated.  The material includes molecular, cellular and systems physiology and the relevance of biological timing to ecology and health in everything from protozoans to plants to people. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4040 Laboratory of Neurophysiology

Neurophysiology is the study of living neurons. Students record electrical activity of cells to learn principles of the nervous system including sensory transduction and coding, intercellular communication and motor control. The course meets for 8 hours each week. Students may leave the lab for up to 2 hours. Students will be registered with the PERMISSION of instructors and the Student Coordinator, Erin Gerrity

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4060 Introduction to Biochemistry

This course provides the student with the basics of biomolecules and their structures, bioenergetics, mechanisms, kinetics, and major metabolic processes.  The course assumes students have a strong foundational background in biology, general and organic chemistry.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4072 Regenerative and Stem Cell Biology

Regeneration is a very complex, post-embryonic developmental phenomenon, where organisms replace lost body parts and organs upon injury. However, we still know very little about why some animals are so successful at regenerating whole bodies and organs, while other animals (like humans) have limited or no capacity to do so. This course covers regeneration and stem cell biology across different levels of biological organization (e.g. cell, organ, limb regeneration.) and across the animal phylogeny. Students learn about mechanisms of regeneration at the cellular and molecular level, and how these mechanisms vary among organisms. In addition to the general principles of stem cells and regenerative biology, the course will be a good introduction to animal diversity and evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo). Students will read and discuss primary literature, and write up their own experimental design to test hypotheses. While this course is not listed as writing intensive, much of the grading is done via writing assignments, which become increasingly difficult. There is an obligatory Tuesday discussion hour that follows the lecture. Please see this page for more details: https://ozpolatlab.org/teaching (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4114 Neuroplasticity: Wiring and Rewiring of the Brain

Neuroplasticity: Wiring and Rewiring of the Brain’ discusses the brain’s remarkable ability to change, reorganize, and grow its neural networks. Our brains are constantly evolving; new and relevant connections are strengthened while irrelevant ones are eliminated. This phenomenon is known as neuroplasticity. This course examines how the brain reshapes itself at molecular, neural, and systemic levels. It explores both endogenous (internal) and exogenous (external) factors involved in this process, highlighting the significant contributions of this emerging field of neuroscience. Students learn how to rewire the brain more effectively to enhance its plasticity, which can improve cognitive capacity, enhance learning, prevent memory loss, and promote overall brain health. Understanding of this fascinating area of neuroscience is being applied in various fields, including mental wellbeing and behavioral health, neuroprotection against age-related declines, artificial intelligence, and medicine. Students also explore how the systematic reinforcement of sensory environments, healthy sensory inputs, and brain exercises can boost brain capacity by creating new circuits. Conversely, toxic living conditions and unhealthy lifestyles can negatively impact brain function. Additionally, recent research findings, journal articles, and publications in this emerging area of neuroscience will be reviewed. This course does not count toward the undergraduate biology major, but undergrads are welcome to enroll. MA in Bio students should enroll in BIOL 5114.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4181 Population Genetics

An introduction to the basic principles of population and ecological genetics. Mechanisms of microevolutionary processes; integrated ecological and genetic approach to study the adaptive nature of the evolutionary process. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4182 Macroevolution

 An advanced introduction to the study of macroevolutionary patterns and processes with emphasis on the systematic methodology employed. Topics: theories of classification, phylogenetic reconstruction, testing of historical hypotheses, hierarchy theory, adaptation, extinction, speciation, developmental mechanisms of organismal evolution, biogeography. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4183 Molecular Evolution

A rigorous introduction to the study of evolution at the molecular level. Topics include the origin, amount, distribution and significance of molecular genetic variation within species, and use of molecular data in systematics and in testing macroevolutionary hypotheses. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4193 Experimental Ecology Laboratory

The goal of this course is to provide skills in the design, interpretation, and written presentation of ecological and evolutionary experiments, with emphasis on sampling methodology, hypothesis testing, and data analysis. A key objective of this course is to familiarize students with the importance of statistics and experimental design as unified tools, rather than two separate processes. The course does not seek to be exhaustive of all experimental designs or statistical techniques, nor intensive in any given one. Rather, its focus is on providing the tools and concepts for the critical evaluation, choice, interpretation and further independent learning of the experimental and statistical tools needed for research. Practical analysis of data will be taught in the program R, but no prior knowledge is required. This is a writing intensive course and grades are based on various assignments, including a final project, and in-class participation. This course fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Check section description for latest lab enrollment link.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4195 Disease Ecology

Disease ecology is an interdisciplinary field that bridges concepts from fields including population ecology, community ecology, landscape ecology, and evolutionary biology. This course provides an introduction to the study of infectious diseases with an emphasis on theoretical, experimental, and quantitative approaches. The course will integrate studies of infectious diseases from across disciplines including human epidemiology, veterinary medicine, wildlife epidemiology, plant pathology, parasitology, and ecology. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4197 Community Ecology

Community ecology is an interdisciplinary field that bridges concepts in biodiversity science, biogeography, evolution and conservation. This course provides an introduction to the study of pattern and process in ecological communities with an emphasis on theoretical, statistical and experimental approaches. Topics include: ecological and evolutionary processes that create and maintain patterns of biodiversity; biodiversity and ecosystem function; island biogeography, metacommunity dynamics, niche and neutral theory; species interactions (competition, predation, food webs), species coexistence and environmental change. The class format includes lectures, discussions, and computer labs focused on analysis, modeling and presentation of ecological data using the statistical program R. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4220 Practical Bioinformatics

From medicine to genomics to ecology, all fields of biology are now generating large and complex datasets that can only be analyzed using computational approaches. This course introduces computational techniques and perspectives to biologists that are new to computational thinking. Students will learn how to design research workflows, decompose complex problems into simpler solvable units, and apply scientific computing principles to research. In addition, students will practice foundational computing skills, such as using the UNIX operating system on research clusters, writing custom analysis programs with shell scripts and with Python, and summarizing and visualizing analysis output. The laboratory exercises build on one another, culminating in the construction of a bioinformatics pipeline that can process and analyze molecular data. Students will apply their newly learned computational skills and use their pipeline to analyze virus sequence evolution and explore evolutionary models.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4240 Immunology

 Basic molecular and cellular aspects of the vertebrate immune system with emphasis upon the interrelationships of non-specific and specific host defense against disease, the nature of immunological specificity and its underlying molecular biology. Includes complement systems, immunochemistry, the nature of cellular activation and effector generation, immunodeficiency, tolerance, tissue transplantation, hypersensitivity, immune regulation and specific diseases illustrative of the successes and failures of the immune system. Case studies will be presented by the students on an array of immune system disease. Interested Juniors in their second semester are particularly encouraged to register for this course. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4242 Virology

Viruses are all around us and play key roles in health, evolution, ecology, agriculture, and can even completely disrupt societies. In this course, we explore the wide array of viruses, the basics of their structure, the infection cycle, their role in human health, and how we can adapt viruses for uses in research, agriculture, and biotechnology. Emphasis is on animal viruses, specifically medically relevant viruses, including HIV and SARS-CoV-2, and recent advances in virology. While primarily a lecture-based course, students present on a relevant virus and read primary literature. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4244 Advances in Immunology

The goal of this course is to provide students with an overview of the mammalian immune system. 1. We will begin with a general overview of the immune system. 2. We will then discuss the specific cells and factors that constitute the immune system. 3. We will describe how the immune system detects and defends us against attack by pathogenic microbes. 4. We will describe how foreign tissues are recognized, rejected and what therapies for preventing that from taking place. 5. We will discuss aberrant immune responses that would result in under-responsiveness or over-responsiveness. 6. We will finally cover how the immune system responds to malignant tumor growth and how those cancers evade detection and destruction as well as what therapies are available to aid the immune system to attack the cancer. The class will run for 2 hours and fifty minutes and consist of a 75 to 120 minute lecture that is followed by student presented discussions of relevant publications to that topic being discussed that lecture. This will be for those students who select that option for their individual responsibility (see below). In the event that there are no student presentations scheduled for a particular class period, the instructor will present an article associated with that lectures topic. NOTE: this course does not count toward the undergraduate Biology major, it is intended for MA in Biology students, but undergrads are welcome to enroll. MA in Biology students should take L41 5244.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4270 Problem Based Learning in Biomedical Sciences

Groups of 5-8 students study and discuss cutting-edge biomedical research under faculty guidance.   Students take major responsibility for their own learning within their team. Recommended: some experience in molecular biology.  This class is open to upperclassmen as well as first year graduate students.  A biology or science background is required.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4271 The Science of Cats

This capstone-style course will give students the opportunity to apply what they've learned in topics as diverse as speciation, molecular evolution, community ecology and animal behavior to investigate and analyze questions concerning the biology of a species near and dear to the hearts of many, Felis catus, the domestic cat. Over the last several decades, scientists have studied cats in the same way they have studied lizards, birds, flies and many other species. This cat research allows questions of broad scientific interest to be addressed using cutting-edge methods, including (but not limited to): what is a species? How do new species arise? How do we determine when, where and from what species the cat evolved? How do we determine if a trait (e.g., response to catnip) evolved as an adaptation driven by natural selection? How do we determine the impact of an invasive species on local ecosystems? How does domestication occur and is the cat actually domesticated? Is the behavior of domestic cats a legacy of their evolutionary past or does it represent adaptation to living with humans? What role, if any, can genetic engineering play in decreasing feral cat populations and developing new breeds of cats with desirable traits.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4310 Biology of Aging

 This course provides concepts and examples of the biology of aging. We discuss current literature with emphasis on theoretical causes of aging and the practical implications of these theories. Major topics include the biochemical processes of aging, cell cycle senescence, age-related organ dysfunction, interventions to alter the aging process, and medical illnesses associated with aging (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, the dementias). We also study animal and human models for extending longevity, and current approaches for dealing with the aging process are included. 

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4342 Research Explorations in Genomics

A collaborative laboratory investigation of a problem in comparative genomics, utilizing a variety of bioinformatics tools to manage and investigate large data sets (currently including genomic sequences, gene predictions, sequence conservation, gene expression). Each year we focus on a specific research problem in comparative genomics. The work will involve examination of genome assemblies from several Drosophila species to investigate patterns of genome organization, gene structure and gene regulation. Permission of Dr. Chris Shaffer is required. Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Check section description for latest lab enrollment link.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4343 Research Explorations in Genomics (Writing-Intensive)

Content equivalent to Bio 4342. Students electing the writing option are required to revise each of three papers (on finishing of their fosmid; gene finding in a human/chip comparison; and annotating their fosmid) at least once.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4345 Epigenetics

Introductory course in epigenetics - the layer of chemical information that sits on top of the genome - that switch genes 'on' or 'off'. Will introduce how the epigenome, in collaboration with the genome, controls versatile biological processes and cell fates. Will also cover the latest advances of how humans can control their own epigenetic destiny by lifestyle, diet, and other environmental factors. Learning Objectives: Recognize and summarize the difference between genetics and epigenetics, Apply the basic knowledge of epigenetic mechanism and illustrate how their misregulations cause abnormal development and diseases, Critically review and discuss epigenetic literature, Design epigenetic experiments and interpret the results of those experiments, Graduate student specific: Demonstrate the ability to clearly communicate epigenetic research in both oral and written formats. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4346 Next-Gen Genetics: Merging Genetics With Genomic Insights

Forward genetics is a research approach that starts with identifying phenotypic variation (an observable trait or characteristic) and then works towards discovering the genetic basis responsible for that variation. In the dynamic era of genomics, the field of forward genetics offers a powerful approach to uncovering the genetic basis of phenotypic variation across a wide array of organisms. Next-Gen Genetics is a cutting-edge upper-level laboratory course that bridges traditional genetic analysis with modern genomic techniques. The course emphasizes the universality and applicability of forward genetics methods in various research systems including animals, plants, and microbes. In this course we will use plants as a model system to explore forward genetic approaches. Through a blend of engaging lectures, interactive bioinformatics labs, and hands-on greenhouse and wet lab sessions, students will journey from the fundamentals of genetic variation and trait inheritance to the forefront of genomic technology. Using next-generation sequencing (NGS) together with bioinformatics tools, participants will experience the thrill of discovery by identifying new trait loci associated with phenotypic traits in a novel research project. This course is an invitation to explore the genetic complexities of living organisms in the genomic age. Whether you're aiming to revolutionize plant breeding, uncover the genetic underpinnings of disease in humans, or explore the vast diversity of microbial life, Next-Gen Genetics offers the tools and insights to propel your scientific journey. By the end of this course, students will have designed and carried out an experiment, phenotyped a segregating population of tomato plants, extracted DNA and sent it to be sequenced. Students will then analyze genomic sequences and perform their own Bulk Segregant Analysis experiment to identify genetic loci associated with chosen phenotypes. Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Check section description for latest lab enrollment link.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4370 Laboratory On DNA Manipulation

This course provides investigation-driven research on experimental manipulation of DNA and RNA molecules.  This includes the construction, isolation and analysis of plasmids, RNA, PCR products and DNA sequencing.  Molecular cloning (genetic engineering), gene knockouts (mutants), RNA isolation, RT-PCR, and microarray projects are performed. This course fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4381 Cell-Based Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

This course focuses on how new directions in cellular, molecular and developmental biology are interfacing with advances in biomaterials tissue engineering, innovative devices, and advanced technologies (such as 3D printing and CRISPR) to replace, restore, and/or correct genetic, acquired, or damaged tissues and organs. Coverage includes the rapidly expanding use of types of stem cells and their preparation alone or in concert with biomaterial scaffolds, nanomaterials, and growth factors. Tissue engineered therapies for cancer, diabetes, autoimmune disorders and other conditions are reviewed. Examples of tissue engineering approaches for regeneration of nerves, cardiovascular, kidney, cartilage, bone, ligament, tendons, and skin are discussed in some detail. Regulatory issues, ethical guidelines, and commercial perspectives will be woven into our discussions. (Biology Major Area B)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4438 Principles of Virology

The goal of this course is to provide students with an overview of the biology of viruses. We will emphasize the nature of viruses on a molecular level. In so doing we will: 1. We will discuss how viruses gain access to cells, replicate themselves, and then leave the cell to infect new cells. 2. We will also describe differences and similarities that the different categories of viruses have. 3. We will discuss how viruses participate in host-virus interaction with emphasis on what immune responses are generated and how viruses attempt to avoid those responses. 4. We will also specifically discuss both HIV and tumorigenic viruses. 5. Finally we will discuss vaccination and drug therapies that have been developed to defeat viruses. Each class will involve both lecture and discussion of relevant publications to that topic. There will be two exams, a mid-term and a final exam. Keep in mind that the course is designed so that each class, to one degree or another, builds on the previous material and so it is important to fully understand what we have already covered. This course does not count toward the undergraduate biology major.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4479 Fundamentals of Parasitology

This course covers a variety of clinically relevant parasitic organisms and their importance to human disease. During this course we will: 1. The Semester is divided into two halves. a. The first half will discuss clinically relevant worm parasites. b. The second half will discuss protozoan parasites that cause multiple types of diseases. 2. For each of the parasitic classes discussed we will present general characteristics of the parasite as follows: a. The lifecycle of the particular parasite. b. The clinical disease profile. c. Interactions of parasites with the host immune response both in terms of mechanisms whereby the host resists infections by these organisms and also how these parasites circumvent the host's ability to eliminate them. d. Because so much of the clinical importance of parasites has to do with this interaction, we will also cover general aspects of the workings of the immune system. There will be an emphasis on the nature of the host-parasite interaction on a molecular level. e. Finally we will discuss what available therapies are available and what potential therapies are being developed. 3.These lectures will include discussions of recent literature concerning parasites and their interactions with the host. This class does not count toward the undergraduate biology major. MA in Biology students should register for BIOL 5479. Undergrads and PBPM students should register for 4479.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4492 Infectious Diseases: History, Pathology, and Prevention

Leveraging the primary research literature, this course examines the history and pathology of infectious disease, the development of antibiotics and vaccines, the rise of antibiotic resistance, and the emergence and reemergence of diseases including Zika virus, Malaria, and Tuberculosis. In addition to gaining insights into the underlying causes and treatment of infectious disease, students will hone their ability to identify important biological questions, develop testable hypotheses, design experiments tailored to particular questions, and evaluate results. Through a series of written and oral assignments, students develop the skills to communicate about science effectively to both the research community and the general public. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4510 General Biochemistry

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the molecular and chemical foundations of life, integrating the structural, mechanistic, and regulatory principles that govern biological systems. Topics include the chemical properties of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, with emphasis on how biomolecular structure underlies biological function. Core biochemical processes are examined through enzyme catalysis, kinetics, and regulatory mechanisms, followed by an integrated analysis of central metabolic pathways involved in energy production, biosynthesis, and metabolic control. The course emphasizes the molecular mechanisms of genetic information flow, including the chemical basis of DNA replication, transcription, translation, and the interactions among nucleic acids, proteins, and regulatory factors that produce functional biological outcomes. Recommended for students who have achieved grades of B or better in the prerequisites. Students may not receive credit for both Biol 4810 and Biol 4510. There will be discussion breakouts every other Thursday during class time.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Summer

BIOL 4519 Protein Function in Model Cellular Systems

The goal of this 3-credit laboratory course is to train students in the scientific method. Throughout this course, they will study a protein involved in a cellular process. Students, working in small groups, will use bioinformatics to identify this protein in a number of species, then use this information to hypothesize which residues of the protein are important for its function. Over the course of the semester, students will test their hypotheses in two model systems for studying cellular function - the unicellular eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the multicellular eukaryote Physcomitrella patens. The weekly lecture will give students the background necessary to understand and perform their experiments, including information on a variety of bioinformatics tools, phylogeny, protein structure, molecular techniques, cell biology, and microscopy. In addition, students will use primary literature to understand the role their assigned protein plays in their cellular process. Prereq: Bio 2960 and Bio 2970.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4522 Laboratory in Protein Analysis, Proteomics, and Protein Structure

This laboratory class is structured around a biochemical question of relevance to the research community. Students will design and generate mutants of an enzyme to test hypotheses about its mechanism and kinetics. The course consists of three sections: molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and structural biology. In the first section, students learn the principles of DNA manipulation, cloning, mutagenesis, and DNA sequencing and apply them to design and generate mutant constructs of the protein of interest. In the second section, students learn the principles of heterologous expression of proteins in bacteria, protein purification, SDS-PAGE, protein quantification, and kinetic analysis of enzyme activity. These methods are applied to test the students' hypotheses by assaying the activity of their mutant enzymes. The final section of the course introduces students to concepts of structural biology including protein crystallization, x-ray diffraction, and computer modeling of protein structures. Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Graduating seniors who need an upper-level laboratory to complete the requirements of a biology major program have priority. Check section description for latest lab enrollment link.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4523 Molecular Methods in Enzyme Analysis

Understanding enzyme structure and function is essential in many important drug design projects. This course focuses on methods used to investigate enzyme active sites to elucidate binding interactions between small molecules and enzymes. Students design and model modifications to an enzyme active site, then perform those modifications using site-directed mutagenesis. This course also introduces other commonly used methods to assay active-site metals, characterize inhibitors, overexpress and purify proteins, and use UV spectroscopy to analyze enzyme activity. This is an investigative course in which students perform collaborative research projects in small groups. Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the generic biology major and the biochemistry track. Check section description for latest lab enrollment link.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4525 Structural Bioinformatics of Proteins (Writing Intensive)

In this course-based research experience (CURE), students engage in authentic, open-ended research using high-quality, experimentally determined, three-dimensional structural coordinates. Working collaboratively, students use cutting-edge bioinformatics tools and methods to evaluate and analyze structural datasets whose functions are not fully characterized. Topics include structural validation, protein structure prediction, domain and motif recognition, secondary structure prediction, protein–protein and protein–ligand interactions, protein and structure-based sequence alignments, electrostatic interactions, and molecular docking. Students iteratively refine their analyses and interpretations and communicate their findings in the form of a scientific manuscript; exceptional manuscripts will be submitted to a peer-reviewed scientific journal for publication. Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the biology major. Check section description for the latest lab enrollment link.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM, WI BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4584 Essentials of Biomedical Writing and Presenting

This course will provide the most fundamental techniques for effectively reviewing, writing and presenting scientific information. The goal of this course is to help students understand scientific communication better. They will become familiar with the structure of scientific papers, grants and presentations and will learn to critically evaluate each form of communication. Students will learn the characteristics of outstanding scientific writing and presenting, including academic style, coherence, clear data presentation and word choice through classroom exercises and mock presentations. Classes will consist of a lecture followed by a classroom exercise. Students will be graded on classroom exercises and writing assignments. This class does not count toward the undergraduate biology major. MA in Biology students should register for BIOL 5584. Undergrads and PBPM students should register for 4584.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4715 Basic Cancer Biology

More than two thirds of all people know someone who has cancer. This course provides students with a more extensive understanding of what cancer is and how it affects the human body. We will discuss the history of cancer research, the many different types of human cancers, and basic chemotherapeutics. The topics will be presented in a basic scientific nature, with an emphasis on gaining a broad understanding of the subjects. Not available to students who have credit for Biol 144 or Biol 1440.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4716 Advanced Cancer Biology

This advanced course provides students with a more in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms of cancer. We will discuss tumor suppressors, oncogenes, signaling pathways, animal models in cancer, and novel targeted cancer therapies being developed by biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM BU: SCI

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4720 Behavioral Ecology

his course examines animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective and explores the relationships between animal behavior, ecology, and evolution. Topics include mating systems, sexual selection, parental care, kin selection, and cooperation. There is a strong active - learning component. A student may not receive credit for more than one of the courses BIOL 3700 and BIOL 4720. (Biology Major Area C)

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4722 The Biology of Membranes

Biomembrane composition and structure determine its function. This class examines membrane components, their organization into general cell membrane structures / domains, and functions. You will appreciate the various roles membrane lipids play in constructing membranes and in signal transduction. Cholesterol is an important membrane lipid that is linked to biomembranes structurally and functionally. Misregulation of transport or trafficking of lipids, including cholesterol, contributes to many human diseases. You will learn historical background and recent advances in membrane biology, following the path taken by cholesterol and other lipids. You will also learn how to critically evaluate primary research and literature reviews on membrane biology. This course is open to MA in Biology students as 5722, and undergraduates as 4722. This course does not count toward the undergraduate biology major, but undergrads are welcome to enroll.

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4834 Bioenergy

This course provides a comprehensive overview of biological energy capture and conversion, with emphasis on photosynthesis and the metabolic engineering of plants and microbes for bioenergy applications. Students will examine the flow of energy from sunlight into chemical bonds and explore how systems and synthetic biology approaches are used to redesign metabolic pathways for sustainable biomanufacturing. Topics include light reactions of photosynthesis, electron transport, carbon fixation, photorespiration, nitrogen fixation, metabolic integration, and engineering strategies for improving biological energy efficiency. The course integrates biochemical mechanisms with systems-level analysis and contemporary primary literature. (Biology Major Area A)

Credit 3 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4933 Molecular Biology On the Cutting Edge

Recent biomedical discoveries have been greatly advanced through the development of innovative, state-of-the-art techniques. For example, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) has proved to be an invaluable tool in both efforts to determine the atomic structure of proteins and small molecules as well as in clinical settings, as MRI to identify tumors that would otherwise go unnoticed. This course will introduce students to a variety of cutting-edge laboratory techniques, and discuss the impact of these techniques on biology and medicine. Students will have the unique opportunity to learn from graduate students employing these approaches in their doctoral studies. Topics to be covered include: high-throughput sequencing of genetic disorders, x-ray crystallography, and single molecule force spectroscopy by AFM. Weekly classes will consist of a 30-45 minute presentation on a particular technique, followed by 60-minute discussion of the assigned readings.

Credit 2 units. A&S IQ: NSM Art: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4934 Neuroscience Futures 2

 This course is a taste of a key ingredient in the life of a scientist - it's essential to read papers, listen to visiting speakers as they present new findings, and think carefully about what all of this means. This course will do exactly that - we'll read five cutting-edge manuscripts and discuss them in depth. We'll go down all of the rabbit holes to understand the experiments, methods, arguments, and conclusions. This process is simply an interactive discussion, driven by students. In addition, students are integrated into the neuroscience community both at WUSTL and beyond by attending, summarizing, and briefly discussing three neuroscience seminars on campus throughout the semester. The class will meet a total of five times, and students are expected to attend three neuroscience seminars of their choice. For practice, students will have an opportunity to give brief presentations on their own research (optional, but really, it's important to be able to speak so think it through).

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4935 Research Perspectives

This course will guide students who are already involved in laboratory research through the process of writing a research paper or honors thesis. Students will practice writing and presentation skills and learn to use software for managing citations and plotting data. Enrollment is by permission only. This course is required for undergraduates conducting research in the Queller/Strassmann laboratories and is open to other students, graduate and undergraduate involved in research

Credit 2 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4936 Seminars in Ecology and Evolution

 What: At least once a week there are seminars from researchers in ecology or evolution. These seminars are given by local people and by visitors. This semester there are also a number of presentations by job candidates. The point of these seminars is to learn about exciting research. What questions are they asking? What are they discovering? What new scientific stories can we hear about ecology or evolution? What makes up these fields anyway? The seminars are often followed by receptions which are a chance to get to know each other better and to ask questions. This course invites undergraduates to listen to these presentations and write about them. After all, this is a major part of the ideas climate at Wash U. It would be a great idea to get in the habit of going to seminars, with this course, or without.  In addition to attending seminars, we will meet three times during the semester, early on and a couple of times later. When: Most seminars are 4:00 on Thursdays, though some are on other days. The three meetings will be arranged at a time that works for the students in the course. Small class. No final.

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4938 Journal Club On Current Topics in Microbiology and Infectious Disease

We read, analyze, and discuss recent primary literature drawn from the field of microbiology. These papers represent the seven broad Topics of microbiology, as defined by the American Society for Microbiology (https://asm.org/): -Antimicrobial Agents & Resistance -Applied & Environmental Microbiology -Clinical & Public Health Microbiology -Clinical Infections & Vaccines -Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity -Host-Microbe Biology -Molecular Biology & Physiology Each week we discuss a single primary research paper, with special emphasis placed on analyzing and interpreting data and figures. Some assignments include supplementary videos or readings to provide the background knowledge required to understand a particular paper. To ensure that students have sufficient prior exposure to microbiological concepts, Biology 349: Foundations of Microbiology is a prerequisite for this course. At the conclusion of the semester, students should have achieved the following objectives: 1. Gain insight into the breadth of research performed within the field of microbiology. 2. Develop skills required to comprehend and to analyze primary research literature.

Credit 1 unit.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4940 Seminar in Advanced Biology

In special cases, credit may be given for individual study. Topics of study and credit must be arranged with a faculty sponsor and approved by the Department.

Credit 4 units. A&S IQ: NSM

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4950 Independent Research

 Research under the supervision of a faculty mentor for juniors and seniors (or students who have completed at least 60 credits overall) in a setting of established, ongoing research. This course has a large number of sections; some sections are listed and enrolled as BIOL 4951. If work is to be submitted for Latin honors, see details on this page: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/research-emphasis-and-latin-honors-2/.  For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted.

Credit 1-3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4951 Independent Research

 Research under the supervision of a faculty mentor for juniors and seniors (or students who have completed at least 60 credits overall) in a setting of established, ongoing research. Same as BIOL 4950. Since this course has a large number of sections, some sections are listed and enrolled as BIOL 4951. If work is to be submitted for Latin honors, see details on this page: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/research-emphasis-and-latin-honors-2/.  For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted.

Credit 1-3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4952 Summer Independent Research

Summer Research under the supervision of a faculty mentor for juniors and seniors (or students who have completed at least 60 credits overall) in a setting of established, ongoing research. Credits are received in the fall semester following the summer research. If work is to be submitted for Latin honors, see details on this page: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/research-emphasis-and-latin-honors-2/.  For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted.

Credit 1-3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4953 Summer Independent Research in Neuroscience

Summer Neuroscience Research under the supervision of a faculty mentor for juniors and seniors (or students who have completed at least 60 credits overall) in a setting of established, ongoing research. Credits are received in the fall semester following the summer research. If work is to be submitted for Latin honors, see details on this page: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/research-emphasis-and-latin-honors-2/.  For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted.

Credit 1-3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4954 Independent Research in Neuroscience

Neuroscience Research under the supervision of a faculty mentor for juniors and seniors (or students who have completed at least 60 credits overall) in a setting of established, ongoing research. If work is to be submitted for Latin honors, see details on this page: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/research-emphasis-and-latin-honors-2/.  For enrollment instructions, potential mentors, and other details, see: https://sites.wustl.edu/bio200500independentresearch/. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted.

Credit 1-3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring

BIOL 4990 Undergraduate Teaching

Exceptional undergraduates serve as teaching assistants for laboratory and/or discussion sections in departmental courses. Normally 2 or 3 units are given per semester, subject to the approval of the instructor and the department. Credit may not be counted toward fulfilling the biology major; application form in Department of Biology Student Affairs office. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Credit /No Credit only.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall

BIOL 4991 Undergraduate Teaching

Exceptional undergraduates serve as teaching assistants for laboratory and/or discussion sections in departmental courses. Normally 2 or 3 units are given per semester, subject to the approval of the instructor and the department. Credit may not be counted toward fulfilling the biology major; application form in Department of Biology Student Affairs office. Credit /No Credit only.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Spring

BIOL 4995 Biology Coursework Completed Abroad

This course is for study abroad credits.

Credit 12 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

BIOL 4996 Elective: 400-Level

This course is for elective or transfer credits.

Credit 3 units.

Typical periods offered: Fall, Spring