Courses for ES Biology
Biology 111 Biological Principles (4 credits)
The general principles common to all life. Topics are: chemical basis of life and cellular metabolism, cell and tissue structure and function, mitosis and meiosis, information storage and retrieval, and life support mechanisms. Although designed as an introduction to the major, non-major students are welcome. Laboratories will consist of exercises illustrating the principles covered in lecture. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Chemistry 125 and 135; or 140. Corequisites: Chemistry 126 and 136 (unless Chemistry 140 previously completed).
Biology 112 The Biological World (4 credits)
A survey of the major groups of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. The evolutionary history of living organisms is traced from the most simple prokaryotes to the highly complex plants and animals. Parallel trends and adaptations are discussed in addition to the unique features of each group. Laboratories consist of the examination of the structure and characteristics of the major groups. No prerequisites but prior completion of Biology 111 or the equivalent is recommended. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week.
Biology 114 Tree Biology (3 credits)
The trees among us seem familiar companions, but their internal functioning and external ecological roles are not. This course is a survey of the natural history, ecology, physiology, and evolution of large woody plants. Students will learn how to identify trees, how they function, and their ecological importance in and out of the context of climate change. Designed for non-Biology majors. Performance will be evaluated based on exams and class assignments. The course includes a field trip to the Blue Mountains.
Biology 115 Regional Natural History (4 credits)
The natural history of environments in and around Walla Walla County. Designed for non-science majors with special applicability for environmental studies majors. The course will emphasize applying basic ecological principles to the interpretation of the processes shaping biological communities. The core of the class will be weekly trips in which we develop and apply skills in observing and interpreting local environments from the Columbia River to the Blue Mountains. Through this process, students will become familiar with common plants, animals, and ecological communities of the region. Two one-hour lectures and one five-hour field trip per week. Field trips begin at 11 a.m. and extend through the lunch hour and into the afternoon. Offered in alternate years.
Biology 118 Agroecology (4 Credits)
From garden plots to industrial agriculture, we will investigate how ecological principles explain and inform modern food production. Designed for non-
biology majors, this course is an introduction to community ecology, ecosystem ecology, botany, and genetics as they relate to the practice of all agriculture, but with an emphasis on sustainable agriculture. We will use readings, discussions, field trips, and greenhouse experiments to deepen our understanding of how biotic and abiotic factors constrain and facilitate food production. Designed for non-biology majors. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Offered in alternate years. Lab fee: maximum $30.
Biology 130 Conservation Biology (4 credits)
An introduction to the dynamic and interdisciplinary world of biological conservation. Fundamental principles from genetics, evolution, and ecology will be discussed and then applied to problems including extinction, species preservation, habitat restoration, refuge design and management, human population growth and its myriad impacts on our environment. Three one-hour lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: none. Designed for non-science majors with special applicability for environmental studies majors.
Biology 177 Ecology of the American West (4 credits)
This course will explore the adaptations and relationships of organisms to their abiotic and biotic environments, with focus on the varied ecosystems of the Hells Canyon region of northeastern Oregon and the high desert ecosystems of northern New Mexico. Students will come to understand the forces impacting, and the impact of, individual organisms as they exist over time and space, as parts of higher levels of ecological constructs including the population, community, and ecosystem. A significant proportion of the class will be spent in the field quantifying vegetative associations and a selection of the fauna inhabiting those associations. The course is team-taught sequentially over two intensive, two-week periods. Laboratory sessions consist primarily of fauna and flora identification, ecological monitoring techniques including vegetative plot monitoring, dry pitfall monitoring, and avian transect monitoring. Environmental studies majors may substitute this course for Biology 130 or 115, as a foundation course in the sciences, with a lab, to satisfy environmental studies major requirements. Prerequisites: required of, and open only to, students accepted to Semester in the West.
Biology 205 Genetics (3 credits)
The principles which underlie the hereditary processes observed in microbes, plants, and animals. Selected topics include structure, organization, function, regulation, and duplication of the genetic material; protein synthesis and its control; mechanisms and patterns of inheritance; population genetics. Prerequisites: Biology 111; Chemistry 125 and 126, or Chemistry 140; sophomore status.
Biology 212 Natural History of the Inland Northwest (4 credits)
This course will engage biology majors with the plants, animals and topography of a specific biotic province of our region (e.g., Blue Mountains or Walla Walla Valley) within the larger context of its geology and paleoecological history. The class will emphasize field experiences and interpretation of ecological and evolutionary processes shaping our surroundings with discussion of current environmental issues facing the area. One three-hour class per week, eight six-hour labs, some overnight. Fulfills the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 112; Biology 215 or 277 recommended (or concurrent). Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 215 Plant Ecology (4 credits)
The diverse adaptations of plants to their abiotic and biotic environments from ecological and evolutionary perspectives. Lectures will address effects of climatic factors (water, light, temperature) and soils on plant morphology, physiology, growth, and reproduction, and the complex relationships of plants with other forms of life, especially insects. The laboratory will include several research projects and field trips. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisites: Biology 111, 112. Offered in alternate years.
Biology 218 Symbiosis (4 credits)
From the origin of mitochondria to the phenomenon of zombie ants, intimate interactions between phylogenetically unrelated organisms are ubiquitous and important components of ecological communities. This course is a survey of topics in symbiology including the evolutionary history of the eukaryotic cell, vertical inheritance, acquisition of metabolic pathways, development of novel symbiotic structures, and partnership specificity. The course includes multiple scales of interaction spanning the level of molecules to the level of ecosystems. All major taxonomic groups are represented. The course includes lectures, case studies, and discussions of the primary literature. The laboratory portion of the course includes design and execution of manipulative experiments. Applies to the
Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and 112 or consent of instructor. Offered in alternate years. Lab fee: maximum $30.
Biology 220 Grassland Ecology Lab (1 credit)
Exploration of grassland and shrubland ecosystems based on field trips and research. Research designed to give students experience in the process of ecological science, including observing patterns to develop questions, searching primary literature, evaluating hypotheses and predictions, initiating experiments and gathering data in the field, processing data, statistical analysis, and presenting results in written and graphical form. Field work will involve various physical demands such as hiking and working off-trail on steep slopes. One three or four hour lab per week. Approximately six times during the semester we will depart at noon rather than 1 pm. One required full-day or overnight field trip. Applies to the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Prerequisite: Biology 112. Lab fee: maximum $50.
Biology 225 Ornithology Lab (1 credit)
An introduction to the study of birds based on field trips, lab activities, and research. Research designed to give students experience in the processes of doing science, including searching primary literature, evaluating hypotheses and predictions, gathering and processing data, statistical analysis, and presenting results in written and graphical form. One three or four hour lab per week. Approximately six times during the semester we will depart at noon rather than 1 pm. One required full-day or overnight field trip. Applies to the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Prerequisite: Biology 112. Lab fee: maximum $50.
Biology 228 Biostatistics (3 credits)
This course will place a strong emphasis on conceptual understanding of statistical methods and their proper application to research questions in biology. We will cover descriptive, inferential, and comparative statistics while highlighting hypothesis testing and appropriate experimental design. Topics will include parametric (normal) and nonparametric analyses of continuous and categorical variables to include t-tests, chi-square tests, correlation analysis, simple linear regression, and analyses of variance. Student achievement will be assessed through case studies, homework problems, and exams. Prerequisite: junior or senior standing in BBMB, biology or biology-combined majors. May not be offered every year.
Biology 229 Plant Identification Lab (1 credit)
In this field-oriented laboratory, students will explore aspects of plant form and growth, acquire basic skills for plant identification, and learn to recognize on sight the most common plant families in the western United States. At least one lab will be substituted by a field trip, and all students will be required to make a plant collection. This lab course is designed for biology majors, and meets concurrently with Biology 129. One three-hour laboratory per week. Fulfills the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Prerequisite: Biology 112. Lab fee: maximum $30.
Biology 253 Plant Physiology (4 credits)
Plant physiology is the study of how plants function, internally as well as in relation to their environment. We will investigate how plants use light, water, and minerals to grow and reproduce, at scales ranging from the molecular to the ecological. The course includes both lecture and laboratory components.
Applies to the Organismal major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111. Fee: maximum $30.
Biology 277 Ecology (4 credits)
The relationships of organisms to one another and to the abiotic environment. We will learn ecological concepts and principles important to populations, evolution, inter-specific interactions, communities, landscapes, energy flow, nutrient cycles, and conservation. Three one-hour lectures and one three-hour lab per week. Labs primarily involve field studies relevant to major concepts, along with data processing and analysis skills, and presentation of results in written and graphical form. Prerequisites: Biology 111, 112
Biology 287 Ecology Lab (1 credit)
Field research designed to expose students to ecological processes in the field and to give students experience in all stages of ecological science, including observing patterns to develop questions, searching primary literature as part of a process of developing hypotheses, identifying testable predictions, initiating experiments and gathering data in the field, processing data, statistical analysis of data, and presenting results in written and graphical form. Field work will involve various physical demands such as hiking and working off-trail on steep slopes. One three or four hour lab per week. Approximately six times during the semester we will depart at noon rather than 1 pm. Applies to the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Pre- or corequisite: Biology 277. Optional corequisite: Biology 277. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 288 Plants and Peoples (3 credits)
The relationship between plants and human societies, drawing examples from different geographical regions and placing emphasis on plants used for food, medicine, clothing, and shelter. Topics will explore the various uses of plants, implications of altering natural habitats and cultural traditions, origins and histories of cultivated plants, development of agriculture and ecological aspects of its practices, including soil management, pest control, plant breeding, and preservation of genetic diversity. Three lectures per week, plus one optional weekend field trip. Fulfills the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and 112; or consent of instructor. Offered in alternate years.
Biology 303 Cell Biology (3 credits)
The ultrastructure and function of cells. This course will examine in detail the major molecular processes in eukaryotic cells to include: biological molecules, membranes and cell surfaces, cell signaling, cellular energetics and metabolism, motility, protein processing and transport, cell cycle regulation, etc. Principles will be illustrated by examining various scenarios that occur when cellular processes are disrupted, as in the case of cell-based diseases, including but not limited to cancer development. Three lectures per week. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and Chemistry 245. Biology 112 is recommended.
Biology 304 Cell Biology Laboratory (1 credit)
The laboratory extension of Biology 303, the exercises will illustrate principles of eukaryotic cellular biology, with emphasis on modern instrumentation techniques, particularly protein isolation and cell culture techniques. One three-hour laboratory session per week. Applies to the Molecular/Cell Biology major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and Chemistry 245. Biology 112 is recommended. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 305 Cellular Physiology and Signaling (3 credits)
This class will cover the essentials of cell biology and can be used in place of Biology 303 to fulfill the cell biology requirement for biology majors (when Biology taken concurrently with Biology 306) and is suitable as an elective for BBMB majors. In particular, this class will emphasize the role of cellular membranes and signaling machinery in regulating proper cell function. Diversity in cellular signaling will be illustrated through investigation of various strategies used to mediate changes in the physiology of single cells and potentially, the organism. Cell communication is critical to cell survival and adaptation. It is an area of biological study that incorporates biochemistry, cell biology/physiology and membrane biophysics — all of which will be specifically highlighted through literature review and discussion sessions. Three lectures per week. Prerequisites: Biology 111; Chemistry 245; or consent of instructor. Corequisites (to fulfill biology major requirements): Biology 306. Chemistry 246 is recommended.
Biology 306 Cellular Physiology and Signaling Lab (1 credit)
Laboratory exercises in cellular biology will incorporate cell labeling, microscopy, biochemical analysis, and pharmacological manipulation to assess cell physiology (e.g., motility, metabolism, development, and signaling). One three-hour laboratory per week. Applies to the Molecular/Cell Biology major requirement. Pre- or corequisite: Biology 305. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 310 Physiology (4 credits)
An advanced-level examination of the biological functions that allow self-maintenance, reproduction, and regulation in various environments. Animals in general will be covered, but with emphasis on mammals. An initial overview examines the principles of traditional organ-systems physiology and how these are increasingly being altered by evolutionary biology and Darwinian medicine, molecular and cellular physiology, and genomics. This overview will be integrated with organismal functions including hormonal and neural regulation, defense, support and movement, excretion and osmotic balance, circulation and transport, respiration, energy balance, and reproduction. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week; the latter will parallel the lecture topics. Prerequisites: Biology 111; Chemistry 245; or consent of instructor. Biology 112 and 303 and 304 or 305 and 306 are recommended.
Biology 315 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy (4 credits)
The structure and function of vertebrates within an evolutionary context. By the end of the course students should have gained a familiarity with the structural diversity of the 60,000 or so living vertebrates and some of their extinct ancestors, a detailed knowledge of the anatomy of a few “representative” vertebrates studied in lab, and an understanding of the major structural trends and innovations in the history of vertebrates. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. This course is especially recommended for students planning careers in medicine or veterinary medicine or with an interest in evolutionary biology. Fulfills the Organismal Biology major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111, 112. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 316 Transformations in Vertebrate Evolutions (2 credits)
This course explores major transformations that vertebrates have undergone in the course of their 500 million year history. For example, how and why did fishes first make the transition to land? How and why did whales (and ichthyosaurs, plesiosaurs, sea turtles and others) make the transition back to water from land? How did flying birds evolve from running dinosaurs? Drawing on the primary literature, from multiple levels of biological organization and integrating research from a range of disciplines (e.g. palaeontology, developmental biology, phylogenetic systematics, ecology), students will explore these and other important transformations in the evolutionary history of vertebrates. Applies to the Ecology/Evolution Biology major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 112 and 205; Recommended Prerequisite: other 300-level Biology course.
Biology 319 Developmental Biology Seminar (2 credits)
This upper level seminar course will focus on current topics in developmental biology (e.g. stem cells and cloning, evolutionary development, epigenetic modifications of the genome and thinking in 4-D). Most readings will come from the primary literature, and the class will be a mix of presentations and discussion, with overviews and background material given by the instructor. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell Biology major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and 205.
Biology 320 Neurobiology (4 credits)
This course emphasizes the cellular and molecular biology of neurons as a basis for understanding how the nervous system controls behavior. Topics include the structure and function of neurons and glia, synaptic transmission, brain development and regeneration, sensory and motor systems, brain mechanisms of learning and memory, clinical issues and becoming a neuroscientist. The laboratories will emphasize hands-on experience with techniques used to study the brain in current research including neuroanatomy, neurocytology, neurophysiology, analysis of neuronal gene expression and observation of living neurons in culture. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell Biology major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and 205. Biology 112 and 303 and 304 or 305 and 306 are recommended. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 323 Neurophysiology (4 credits)
This course will introduce students to the multidisciplinary field of neurophysiology from cellular processes to integrated central and peripheral nervous systems functions. The course will examine core principles of neuroanatomy, membrane excitability, neuronal signaling, sensory and motor function, neuroendocrine regulation of integrated organismal physiology (e.g., cardiovascular), and abnormalities that give rise to neurological disorders. Laboratory exercises will emphasize core concepts and methodology, and will incorporate lectures/demonstrations by clinicians/patients and integrative case studies. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Applies to the Organismal Biology major requirement. It is also a suitable elective for BBMB majors. Prerequisites: Biology 111; Chemistry 245; or consent of instructor. Biology 303 or 305 or BBMB 325 are highly recommended. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 327 Biology of Amphibians and Reptiles (4 credits)
Herpetology is the study of amphibians and reptiles. In this course, taxonomy, life history, behavior, physiology, ecology, etc. of frogs, salamander, turtles, lizards, snakes, crocodiles, and others will be presented in the context of the evolutionary history of this diverse assemblage of vertebrates. Labs will focus on study of preserved specimens, and identification of species from all over the world. Students also will learn to identify all local species in preparation for field-based labs in the spring. In the course of the semester, students will prepare an essay on a herpetological topic of their choice. Three lectures and one three-hour lab per week. Fulfills the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 112 required, other organismic level courses desirable. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 328 Evolutionary Developmental Biology (3 credits)
Evolution and development are inexorably linked and genetics is the tie that binds them. This interdisciplinary class explores how genetic and developmental mechanisms have evolved to produce biological diversity. Through lectures, class discussions, and activities, and analysis of both classic and cutting-edge scientific papers, we will examine the contributions of all three research areas to the emerging field of “evo-devo”. Three lectures per week. Fulfills the Organismal major requirement. Prerequisite: Biology 111 and 205. Optional corequisite: Biology 338
Biology 329 Developmental Biology (4 credits)
This upper-level course addresses how a complex multicellular organism arises from a single cell, the fertilized egg. The course is framed by questions formulated using classic experiments in experimental embryology and current molecular and cellular approaches that yield new answers to these questions. Emphasis is on how specialized form and pattern develop in animals; ethical and social issues relevant to developmental biology also are discussed. Labs emphasize independent experimentation and current techniques including timelapse and digital microscopy of living cells and organisms. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell Biology major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111, 205; Chemistry 245. Biology 112, and Biology 303 and 304 or 305 and 306 or BBMB 325 are recommended. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 330 Pathophysiology (4 credits)
A survey of the functions of the human body using disease states to illustrate key physiological processes. This course will examine a sample of pathological states as a springboard for understanding: the basic principles of systems physiology; the cellular/tissue processes that give rise to abnormal function; and the effectiveness of preventative/therapeutic approaches. This course will cover in detail the cardiovascular, endocrine, neuromuscular, renal, and immune systems and will offer an overview of integrative body functions such as electrolyte and nutritional regulation. Basic principles of physiology will be emphasized through laboratory work. Lab sessions will incorporate guest lectures by clinicians/patients or tours of hospital clinics and simulated clinical data and patient case studies. This course can be used in place of Biology 310 to fulfill the physiology requirement for biology majors, and is suitable as an elective for BBMB. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory session per week.
Biology 331 Synthetic Cell Biology (4 credits)
Synthetic biologists take apart, rebuild, and repurpose parts of a cell in order to program and probe cell behavior. To do this, synthetic biologists utilize approaches from cell biology, engineering, molecular genetics, and biochemistry. This advanced course will survey the questions addressed by synthetic biology research, the molecular approaches utilized, and the implications of this work in the realms of biomedicine and agriculture. A key component of this survey will be the lab, wherein students will engage in a synthetic biology research project. Course-work will include reading and discussion of primary research literature, lectures to provide background information, student-led presentations, scientific writing,and hands-on lab work. The course will consist of 2.5 hours of lecture/discussion and one 3-hour lab per week. Applies to the Molecular/Cell major requirement and as an elective for BBMB majors. Students who received credit for BIOL 374 ST: Molecular and Synthetic Biology cannot receive credit for this course.
Prerequisites: Biology 205 and Chemistry 245. Lab fee: maximum $30
Biology 337 Biology of Amphibians and Reptiles Lab (1 credit)
Labs will focus on study of preserved specimens, and identification of amphibian and reptile species from all over the world. Students also will learn to identify all local species. One three-hour lab per week. Applies to the Ecology/Evolution major requirement. Optional corequisite: Biology 327.
Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 338 Evolutionary Developmental Biology Lab (1 credit)
The Evolutionary Developmental Biology Lab is designed to accompany the associated lecture course (Biology 328). Students will gain hands-on experience in acquiring and analyzing data using a variety of techniques common in the field of “evo devo”, and will then work in small groups to apply these skills to develop and test hypotheses regarding a “mystery” developmental mutant of either the mustard plant Arabidopsis or the fruit fly Drosophila. Applies to the Organismal major requirement. Prerequisite: Biology 111 and 205. Optional corequisite: Biology 328. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 339 Microbiology and Immunology (4 credits)
Bacteria, viruses, and eukaryotic microbes. Cell structure and chemistry, metabolism, evolution, and ecology will be themes emphasized throughout the course as other topics such as pathogenesis, disease, the immune system, cultivation, taxonomy, and practical applications for microorganisms are discussed. The laboratory will establish sterile techniques and stress the structure and biochemical differentiation of bacterial species. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell Biology major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and a year of college chemistry. Biology 112 is recommended. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 342 Gene Discovery and Genomics (2 credits)
An advanced course providing an introduction to the new and rapidly growing field of genomics, emphasizing functional genomics and the value of genome resources for diverse types of biological, biomedical, and biotech research. Aspects of structural genomics and genome evolution will be included. For context, we will also discuss classical strategies of gene discovery including forward genetics and protein- and RNA-based gene identification methods. Class will include student presentations on primary research literature, lectures to provide background information, and some hands-on work with genome databases, DNA/RNA isolation and analysis techniques. Applies to the Molecular/Cell requirement of the Biology major. Prerequisites: Biology 205 and Chemistry 246. Consent required for non-Biology majors.
Biology 350 Evolutionary Biology (4 credits)
Designed for the upper-level biology major, this course emphasizes the importance of evolutionary theory to biology. Using modern examples in population biology, molecular evolution and phylogenetics, students will gain a firm foundation in the mechanisms of evolution, speciation, and extinction, and an appreciation of the applicability of evolutionary principles to current issues in areas such as conservation, medicine, and social behavior. Three lectures and one three-hour lab per week. Prerequisites: Biology 111, 205. Biology 112 and 277 or 215 are recommended.
Biology 351 Exercise Physiology (4 credits)
Students will be introduced to exercise physiology and receive an overview of the foundations of exercise, the role of body systems, the importance of nutrition and environment and impact of exercise training on performance and health. Current topics as well as research and clinical relevance will be presented through lectures, case studies, required reading and laboratory activities. Students will be evaluated by quizzes, discussions, case study questions, laboratory reports, a midterm and a final exam. By the end of the course, students will have developed a background in exercise physiology and the ability to apply that knowledge in a real-world setting. The course will include three 50-minute lectures and one three-hour laboratory section per week. Applies to the Organismal Biology major requirement and as an elective for BBMB majors. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and 205; or consent of instructor. Lab fee : maximum $30.
Biology 353 Plant Physiology (4 credits)
Plant physiology is the study of how plants function, internally as well as in relation to their environment. We will investigate how plants use light, water, and minerals to grow and reproduce, at both whole-plant and molecular levels. How do plants cope with stressful environments? How do they adapt to strange or extreme environments? How can a better understanding of plant physiology improve our ability to deal with social issues such as famine, malnutrition, and the conservation of biodiversity? Through lecture, written exercises, discussions of research articles, and laboratories, we will consider these and other key aspects of plant physiology. Three lectures and one three-hour lab per week. Applies to the Organismal major requirement. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and 112. Lab fee: maximum $20.
Biology 489 Thesis Research and Data Analysis (1 credit)
Research or data analysis to be described in senior thesis and seminar (Biology 490). Projects may involve laboratory experiments, fieldwork, and/or data analysis and can be carried out in the senior, junior, and/or sophomore year. Students must register with a research/thesis adviser from biology or BBMB, and the research itself must be carried out with guidance from that adviser, or (if done off-campus), a qualified research supervisor. Pre- or corequisite: consent of research/thesis adviser, and senior standing as a biology major.
Biology 490 Senior Thesis (2 credits)
Continuation of Biology 489. Each student will finish data collection and write a thesis on the research in accepted scientific style. One or more initial drafts of the thesis will be required before the final version is due in the last week of classes. Each student also is required to give a short seminar presentation of his/her results to the faculty and other biology majors. Prerequisite: Biology 489 (may be taken concurrently by students completing requirements in December) or consent of supervising professor.
Biology 498 Honors Thesis (3 credits)
Continuation of Biology 489 and required of senior honors candidates, who will conduct more extensive research than students in Biology 490. Honors students will finish data collection and write a thesis on the research in accepted scientific style. One or more initial drafts of the thesis will be required before the final version is due in the library. Presentation of results to the staff and other biology majors is required. Credit cannot be earned simultaneously for Biology 498 and 490. Prerequisites: Biology 489, consent of supervising professor, and admission to honors candidacy.
Biology 499 Senior Seminar (1 credit)
Each student will attend a weekly, one-hour seminar where students present the results of their senior theses. Course is graded credit/no credit. Open only to senior Biology majors.
BBMB 325 Biochemistry (3 credits)
A detailed examination of protein structure and function, focusing on the role of proteins in molecular recognition and catalysis. Topics include: techniques used to characterize proteins; enzyme kinetics and mechanisms; signal transduction across membranes; bioenergetics; catabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates; integration of metabolism and disease. Three lectures per week. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell Biology requirement for the Biology major. Prerequisites: Biology 111, Chemistry 246.
BBMB 326 Molecular Biology (3 credits)
A detailed examination of nucleic acid structure and function, focusing on gene expression and mechanisms of gene regulation. Other topics include molecular biology of viruses, mobile genetic elements, the genetic basis of cancer, and principles of genomics. Three lectures per week. Required for BBMB majors. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell requirement for the Biology major. Prerequisites: Biology 205 and BBMB 325; consent of instructor required for non-BBMB majors.
BBMB 335 Biochemistry Laboratory (1 credit)
Laboratory exercises in protein biochemistry, which will include biochemical reagent preparation, enzyme isolation and purification, enzyme and protein assays, and gel electrophoresis. One three- to four-hour laboratory per week. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell Biology requirement for the Biology major. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and Chemistry 136 or 140; Corequisite: BBMB 325. Chemistry 240 is strongly recommended. Open to other students only with consent of instructor.
BBMB 336 Molecular Biology Laboratory (1 credit)
Laboratory exercises in nucleic acid biochemistry, including molecular cloning, PCR, and DNA and RNA isolation and analysis techniques. One three-hour laboratory per week. Fulfills the Molecular/Cell Biology requirement for the Biology major. Prerequisite: BBMB 335; Corequisite: BBMB 326; consent required for non-BBMB majors.
BBMB 337 Techniques in Biochemistry and Biophysics (1 credit)
Laboratory exercises emphasizing protein structure and function. Methods may include reagent preparation; protein isolation, purification, and identification; enzyme and protein assays; structure determination via X-ray diffraction; spectroscopic analysis of protein folding and ligand binding; and models of thermal motion via particle tracking. One three hour laboratory per week. Counts towards the Molecular/Cell Biology requirement for the Biology major. Prerequisites: Biology 111 and Chemistry 136 or 140; Corequisite: BBMB 324 or 325. Open to non-BBMB majors only with consent of instructor.