College of Arts & Sciences

Biology

Chair Geoffrey Cooper


Associate Chairs Ulla Hansen, Jen-Wei Lin, Michael Sorenson


Director of Undergraduate Programs Vincent Dionne


Coordinator of Introductory Biology Programs Elizabeth Godrick


Professors Atema, Baum, G. Callard, I. Callard, Cooper, Dionne, Eldred, Gilmore, Godrick, Golubic, Hansen, Hausman, Jacobson, Kaufman, Kornberg, Kunz, Lobel, Loechler, Monette, Primack, Smith (joint appointment with the College of Engineering), Tamm, Tolan, Traniello, Valiela, Waxman, Widmaier


Associate Professors Benson (joint appointment with Computer Science & Bioinformatics), Celenza, Finzi, Lin, McCall, G. Patt, Schneider, Sorenson, Wasserman


Assistant Professors Barber, Bradham, Deshler, Finnerty, Frydman, Man, Naya, Segre (joint appointment with Bioinformatics), Templer, Tsunoda, Wachowiak, Warkentin, Yamaguchi


Professors Emeriti Cooper-Driver, Duncan, Levy, Shepro, Slechta


The department provides its students with both a breadth of understanding in biology and an opportunity to explore many specialized areas in greater depth. The required courses in the concentration establish a core of fundamental knowledge in biological and related sciences. Students then build on this foundation through a variety of lecture, laboratory, field, and seminar courses that explore areas within biology from the basic level to current research topics. The development of laboratory and field skills is encouraged through coursework and participation in the department’s extensive research activities (see CAS BI 191, 192, 291, 292, 391, 392, 401, 402, 491, 492). The BA in biology prepares students for employment as well as for professional training in research, medicine, education, government, and industry.


The department’s research laboratories are located at 2, 5, and 24 Cummington Street. Most teaching laboratories are located in the adjacent Metcalf Science Center. The biology teaching laboratories and associated support facilities (animal quarters; prep rooms; warm, cold, and environmental rooms) are among the finest undergraduate facilities at Boston University. Also part of the immediate environment are the Academic Computing Center, the Science & Engineering Library, and proximity to the chemistry and physics departments.


In addition to teaching facilities and the Science & Engineering Library at 38 Cummington Street, the department has extensive research facilities. Special features include an aquarium room for experimental work on fresh- and saltwater organisms, modern animal care facilities, and environmental chambers. Specialized modern equipment is available for electron, fluorescence, and confocal microscopy, tissue culture, automated DNA sequencing, and a variety of behavioral, biochemical, physiological, and genetic applications. Field study is facilitated by easy access to the 900-acre Sargent Center for Outdoor Education facilities in Peterborough, New Hampshire.


Concentration in Biology (0401)

The concentration requirements for biology include nine courses in the department and a number of related science courses. Following two prerequisite semesters of Introductory Biology (CAS BI 107 and BI 108 or 118), students select one course from each of the following areas: CAS BI 315 or 325 to fulfill the breadth requirement in physiology, endocrinology, and neurobiology (PER/Neuro); CAS BI 203, or 213 or 206 to fulfill the requirement in cell and molecular biology (CM); CAS BI 260 or 303 or 306 or 407 or 504 to fulfill the requirement in ecology, behavior, and evolution (EBE). Of the seven courses taken beyond CAS BI 107 and BI 108 or 118, five must be taken in the department, at least three must be at the 300–500 level, and three must have a laboratory or field component. A grade of C or higher is required for concentration credit in all of the following: biology courses numbered 191 or higher, required related courses, and recommended related courses. Course recommendations for specific programs are available from the student’s advisor.


Required Related Science Courses Two courses in mathematics or in mathematics and computer science: CAS MA 121 and 122; or MA 123 and 124; or MA 213 and 214; or CAS CS 108 or CS 111 and any one of CAS MA 121, 122, 123, 124, 127, 129, 213, 214; or a combination from among the MA courses listed here of one course in calculus and one in statistics. Two courses in physics: CAS PY 105/106 or 211/212 or 211/106 or 241/242. 


Prerequisite and Corequisite Chemistry Courses Three courses in chemistry are prerequisite or corequisite for the biology concentration: CAS CH 101, 102 (or 109, 110 or 111, 112) and CH 203 (or 211); or CAS CH 171, 172, and 273. CAS CH 101, 102 (or 171, 172) should be taken concurrently with CAS BI 107, 108 or 118. CAS CH 203 (or 211 or 273) is co-requisite for BI 203 and a prerequisite for BI 206.


Recommended Related Courses The following related courses may be credited toward the concentration: GRS CH 621, 622; CAS ES 452; SAR HS 251, 369, 370 (no lab credit given for HS 369 and 370); and CAS PS 338.


Undergraduate Research Options CAS BI 191/192 or BI 291/292 may be taken for elective credit. Up to a total of 8 credits from the following courses may be counted toward the concentration in biology, but no more than 4 credits may apply toward lab credit: CAS BI 391/392 or BI 401/401 or BI 491/492.


Advanced Placement (AP) A student with an AP examination score of 5 may receive 8 credits and place out of either BI 107 and BI 108 or BI 105 and BI 107. A score of 4 on the Advanced Placement examination allows 4 credits (for BI 105, BI 107, or BI 108), at the student’s discretion. Advanced placement decisions should be made in consultation with a biology advisor.


Premedical Students Premedical students concentrating in biology should discuss premedical requirements with their advisors and with the Premedical Advising Office (CAS Room B2) as early as possible.


Modular Medical Program Juniors and seniors in good standing, with the prerequisites and approval from CAS Room B2, may register for certain courses that have been developed for the Modular Medical Integrated Curriculum (MMEDIC). This program has been designed by the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Medicine faculties to satisfy certain preclinical School of Medicine requirements. Those interested in early admission to the Boston University School of Medicine through the MMEDIC program should apply in CAS Room B2 in the second semester of their sophomore year.


The following courses may count toward credit for the biology concentration: GMS AN 500; GMS BI 555, 557, 751; GMS MI 518, 718; GMS PH 342, 543.


Note: Students enrolled in the MMEDIC program may petition for up to three MMEDIC courses to be accepted for biology concentration credit. MMEDIC students must take a minimum of four courses beyond the introductory level in the Department of Biology in order to fulfill their department residency requirement. Biology concentrators not enrolled in the MMEDIC program may count no more than two approved MMEDIC courses toward biology concentration credit.


Transfer Students Entering with Advanced Standing must take at least five principal courses beyond the introductory level in the Department of Biology to satisfy residency and concentration requirements listed above.


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Concentration in Biology with Specialization in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, and Genetics (0466)


(Note that among the Required Core Courses, Foundation Courses, and Advanced Electives, 3 courses must have a laboratory component)


Prerequisite Biology Courses (2) CAS BI 107 and BI 108 (or 118)


Required Core Courses (2) CAS BI 315 or BI 325 to fulfill the physiology/endocrinology/neuroscience requirement; CAS BI 260 or BI 303 or BI 306 or BI 407 or BI 504 to fulfill the ecology/behavior/evolution requirement.


Foundation Courses (3) CAS BI 203 (or 213), BI 206, and BI 552.


Advanced Electives (4) Choose 4 additional courses from the following list and the laboratory and non-departmental options below. Note the conditions on the laboratory and non-departmental options. CAS BI 308, BI 311, BI 315, BI 325, BI 385, BI 410, BI 421, BI 422, BI 425, BI 442, BI 444, BI 445, BI 446, BI 455, BI 481, BI 485, BI 504, BI 505, BI 544, BI 549, BI 553, BI 554, BI 555, BI 556, BI 557, BI 572, BI 575.


Laboratory: A maximum of 8 credits (2 courses) from the following courses may be counted as Advanced Electives, but no more than 4 credits (1 course) will apply toward the laboratory requirement: CAS BI 391, 392 or BI 401, 402 or BI 491, 492.


Non-departmental: A maximum of two of the following courses can be used as Advanced Electives for concentration credit: CAS BB 522, CH 525, ENG BF 527, BF 571.


Prerequisite and Corequisite Chemistry Courses CAS CH 101, 102 (or 109,110, or 111, 112) CH 203, 204 (or 211, 212, or 203, 214) are prerequisite or corequisite courses.


Required Related Courses Two courses in mathematics or mathematics and computer science: CAS MA 121 and 122; or MA 123 and 124; or MA 213 and 214; or CS 108 (or CS 111) and any one of MA 121, 122, 123, 124, 127, 129, 213, 214; or a combination from among the MA courses listed here of one course in calculus and one in statistics.  Two courses in physics: CAS PY 105, 106; or PY 211, 212; or PY 241, 242.


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Concentration in Biology with Specialization in Ecology and Conservation Biology (0447)


The requirements for this specialization include 12 courses in biology, with an emphasis on coursework in the Evolution, Behavior, and Ecology division of the Department of Biology. A grade not lower than C in principal and required related courses is required for the biology concentration and the SECB degree. CAS BI 107 and BI 108 or 118 are prerequisites for the concentration.


Principal Courses The concentration requires 10 principal courses. Those must include BI 206, BI 303, and BI 448. Of the seven additional principal courses, six may be selected from the following: CAS BI 260, 301, 302, 305, 306, 407, 414, 415, 417, 423, 468, 473, 474, 477, 479, 504, 506, 508, 512, 518, 526, 530, 531, and 532; one course, BI 315 or 325, must be taken from the PER/Neuro group in biology. Three of these seven additional principal courses must have a lab or field component, and at least three must be at the 300–500 level.


Up to four courses from the Program in Tropical Ecology are acceptable for the SECB degree: CAS BI/GE 438, BI/GE 439, BI/GE 440, and BI/GE 441. One semester of research, either Work for Distinction (BI 401/402) or Undergraduate Research (BI 491/492) on an approved topic, may also be accepted for the Specialization in Ecology and Conservation Biology.


Prerequisite and Corequisite Chemistry Courses Three chemistry courses as detailed in the Concentration in Biology section.


Required Related Science Courses Two courses in mathematics, or in mathematics and computer science, and two courses in physics, as detailed in the Concentration in Biology section.


Recommended Courses in Applied Environmental Science and Policy The following courses may be taken in addition to the prescribed 12 principal courses: CAS GE 275, GE 320, GE 425, GE 430, GE 504, GE 510, GE 511; CAS GE 302, GE 365, GE 448.


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Concentration in Biology with Specialization in Marine Science (0431)


(Note: a new interdisciplinary concentration in marine science and a minor concentration in marine science are currently in the final stages of University-level review. For up-to-date information and advising, contact Boston University Marine Program Manager Jennifer Ryan at 617-358-4961 or jer@bu.edu.) 


The concentration requirements for the Marine Science specialization include 12 biology courses and a number of related science courses. A grade not lower than C is required in all principal, required related, and recommended related courses to receive concentration credit. 


Prerequisite Courses CAS BI 107 and 108 or 118.


Principal Courses Nine additional biology courses including (1) CAS BI 260, prior to the Marine Semester, which fulfills requirement (4) below; (2) at least one course from each of the following areas: CAS BI 315 or 325 to fulfill the requirement in physiology, endocrinology, and neurobiology (PER/Neuro), CAS BI 203, or 213 or 206 to fulfill the requirement in cell and molecular biology (CM), and CAS BI 260, 303, 407, or 504 to fulfill the requirement in ecology, behavior, and evolution (EBE); (3) two elective biology courses; and (4) four biology courses taken as part of the Marine Semester. The MS satisfies the laboratory and 300- to 500-level course requirements.


Prerequisite and Corequisite Chemistry Courses Three chemistry courses as detailed in the Concentration in Biology section.


Required Related Science Courses Two courses in mathematics: CAS MA 213 and one additional course from among CAS MA 121, 122, 123, 124, 127, 129, and 214. Two courses in physics: CAS PY 105, 106; or PY 211, 212 or PY 211, 106; or PY 241, 242.


Recommended Related Courses CAS BI 421 and CAS CH 204 are strongly recommended in addition to courses in earth sciences, oceanography, or marine resources. For other related courses, contact the marine science advisor.


Marine Semester (MS) Core Requirements Students seeking admission to the MS must have an overall GPA of 2.7 and, following two prerequisite semesters of Introductory Biology (CAS BI 107 and BI 108 or 118), must have completed BI 260; CAS CH 101 and CH 102 (or CH 109 and 110 or CH 111 and CH 112 or CH 171 and 172); CAS MA 213. It is recommended, but not required, that students complete the following before taking the MS: CAS BI 203 or 213 and BI 315, CAS CH 203 and CH 204, CAS PY 105 and PY 106, and the second required course in mathematics.


Marine Science Association (MSA)

Marine science concentrators and other students interested in the field are welcome to participate in this group, which sponsors marine science-related activities, including lectures, field trips, and social events. For further information, e-mail the MSA at msa@bu.edu.


Alpha Delta Omega (ΑΔΩ) Marine Science Honor Society

Alpha Delta Omega was formed to recognize the accomplishments of outstanding students in the field of marine science and to promote community service using their knowledge. Membership is open to marine science concentrators who have successfully completed the Marine Semester and meet the GPA and research requirements.


Concentration in Biology with a Specialization in Neuroscience (0448)

(Note: a new interdisciplinary concentration in ­neuroscience is currently in the final stages of University-level review. For up-to-date information and advising, contact Dr. Paul Lipton at 617-358-5150 or palipton@bu.edu.) 


The requirements for this specialization include 12 biology courses, three prerequisite and co-requisite chemistry courses, and four related science courses. A grade no lower than C is required for concentration credit in required core biology, principal, and related science courses.


Prerequisite Courses CAS BI 107 and BI 108 or 118.


Required Core Biology Courses CAS BI 203 (or 213), 315, 325, and BI 407.


Principal Courses Six additional principal courses are required, including at least one biology course with lab or field component and four courses from the following list: CAS BI 230, 421, 444, 445, 455, 481, 520, 545, 552, 554, 555, 575, 599, PS 323, 333, 338, and 554; SAR HS 370 (not for lab credit) and 550.


Undergraduate research options include CAS BI 401 and 402, Work for Distinction (only one of these two courses may count as a neuroscience and laboratory course); and CAS BI 491 and 492, Undergraduate Research (to receive neuroscience credit, students must take both courses, but only 4 credits may count as a neuroscience laboratory course).


Prerequisite and Corequisite Chemistry Courses Three chemistry courses as detailed in the Concentration in Biology section.


Required Related Courses Two semesters of mathematics, or mathematics and computer science, and one year of physics, as detailed in the Concentration in Biology section.


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Concentration in Biology with Specialization in Quantitative Biology (0467)


The requirements for this specialization include 7 principal courses beyond CAS BI 107 and 108 (or 118), the two-semester Quantitative Biology–Biological Physics Seminar series, 5 mathematics courses beyond MA 129, plus courses in physics and chemistry. 


Prerequisite Biology Courses CAS BI 107, BI 108 or 118.


Prerequisite Mathematics Courses CAS MA 123/124 or MA 127 or MA 129.


Principal Courses Seven additional courses beyond the biology prerequisites. These courses include the following: CAS BI 203 to fulfill the requirement in cell and molecular biology; CAS BI 303 to fulfill the requirement in ecology/behavior/evolution; CAS BI 315 or 325 to fulfill the requirement in physiology/ endocrinology/neuroscience; and 4 courses from the QB Electives list (CAS BI 206, BI 308, BI 385, BI 391, BI 392, BI 401, BI 402, BI 407, BI 410, BI 421, BI 422, BI 423, BI 443, BI 444, BI 445, BI 481, BI 491, BI 492, BI 504, BI 505, BI 508, BI 549, BI 552, BI 553, BI 555, BI 556, BI 572, BI 575, MA/BI 565, BF 571, BE/BI 561, BE/BI 567, BB 522, BF 527, CN 510, CN 520, GE 275, GE 365, GE 516). One of the 4 QB Electives must be either MA/BI 565 or BF/BI 571. It is strongly recommended that students include one or more semesters of undergraduate research in their program; however, no more than 2 courses in research (BI 391, BI 392, BI 401, BI 402, BI 491, BI 492) can be counted toward degree requirements. Of the seven courses taken beyond BI 107 and BI 108/118 (not counting QB/BP seminars), five must be taken in the Biology Department, at least three courses must be at the 300–500 level, and three must have a laboratory or field component. In addition, all QB students take the 2 semester QB/BP Seminar sequence (2 credits per semester, junior year).


Required Related Courses Five additional courses in mathematics beyond the math prerequisites, plus two courses in physics are required for the specialization. These include the following (* recommended): 


Mathematics: CAS MA 213, MA 214, MA 225* or 230, MA 226* or 231, MA 242* or 442


Physics: CAS PY 241*/242* or PY 211/212 or PY 251/252.


Prerequisite and Corequisite Chemistry Courses CAS CH 101/102 or CH 109/110 or CH 111/112, and CH 203 or 211. Note that CH 204 or 212 is required for the Biochemistry sequence and for the premed sequence.


Recommended Related Courses: CAS CN 530, CN 540, CN 550, CN 560, CN 570, CN 580, CS 111, CS 112, CS 232, GE 302, GE 440, GE 445, GE 565, MA 555, MA 556, MA 575, MA 581, MA 583.


A grade of C or higher is required for concentration credit in all biology courses numbered 191 or higher, and all required-related and recommended-related courses.


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Tropical Ecology Program in Ecuador


The Division of International Programs and the Center for Ecology & Conservation Biology at Boston University operate a Program in Tropical Ecology in collaboration with the Universidad San Francisco de Quito in Ecuador. Designed specifically for biology and environmental science concentrators, the program provides a unique semester-long, eighteen-credit program for students to study the ecology of tropical Ecuador through intensive field-based experiences. Students live at different field stations during the semester, including one month at the Tiputini Biodiversity Station in the Amazon rain forest, two weeks on the Pacific coast, and two weeks on the Galápagos Islands. Students take a three-week Spanish and Culture course at the beginning of the semester and live with Ecuadorian families in Quito when not in the field. The four ecology courses are taught in English. Students should contact the Division of International Programs or the Center for Ecology & Conservation Biology for more information.


The Tropical Ecology program offers the following courses:


CAS BI/GE 438/638 Tropical Montane Ecology


CAS BI/GE 439/639 Tropical Rain Forest Ecology


CAS BI/GE 440/640 Tropical Coastal Ecology


CAS BI/GE 441/641 Studies in Tropical Ecology


Please see the Special Courses and Programs section of this site for detailed course descriptions.


Pre-Veterinary Society (PVS)

This organization is open to undergraduates interested in veterinary medicine or related fields. In addition to field trips, lectures, and other events, this group provides information on the veterinary school application process. Meetings are held biweekly. The PVS mailbox is located at 5 Cummington Street.


Minor Concentration in Biology (0401)

A minor concentration in biology consists of five courses, including CAS BI 107, 108 or 118, and three additional courses approved for concentration credit. Students must receive a grade of C or higher in all five courses taken toward a minor concentration, and at least three of these courses must be taken in the Department of Biology at Boston University.


Major and Minor Concentrations in Environmental Science

Faculty in the Department of  Biology also contribute to the concentration in Environmental Science, which is administered through the Department of Geography. This concentration is designed to provide interdisciplinary training in Environmental Science and includes coursework in Biology, Earth Sciences, and Geography. Full details regarding requirements for major and minor concentrations in Environmental Science are provided under the Department of Geography section in this site.


BA/MA Program in Biotechnology

Consult the “Interdisciplinary BA/MA Program in Biotechnology” section or see Professor Jacobson in the Biology Department for further information.


Intercollege Cross-Registration: Boston Consortium

Students may cross-register for undergraduate courses at Boston College, Brandeis University, and Tufts University, but only after consultation with their advisors and with written departmental approval.


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Courses


Courses marked with a (†) satisfy natural sciences divisional studies requirements. A (•) indicates that the course does not count toward concentration credit in biology. Biological discipline (EBE, CM, or PER/Neuro) designated in parentheses following course title.


•†CAS BI 105 Introductory Biology for Health Sciences

Students may not receive credit for BI 105 if BI 108 has already been taken. Provides students with an introduction to theoretical and factual bases required for careers in the health and paramedical sciences. Principles of biology; emphasis on cellular structure, heredity, microbiology, development, biochemistry, metabolism, and immunology. Three hours lecture, two hours lab. Godrick. 4 cr, 1st sem. (NS) (lab)


•†CAS BI 106 Human Anatomy

Prereq: CAS BI 105 or equivalent. Intensive preprofessional course for students whose programs require anatomy. Not for biology concentration credit. Gross structure of the human body; skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, circulatory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Three hours lecture, two hours lab (lab requires dissection). Patt. 4 cr, 2nd sem. (NS) (lab)


†CAS BI 107 Biology I

For students who plan to concentrate in the natural sciences or environmental science, and for premedical students. Required for biology concentrators. No prerequisite. High school biology is assumed. Evolution, ecology, and behavior. The evolution and diversity of life; principles of ecology; behavioral biology. Three hours lecture, three hours lab including several weekend field studies. Schneider, Sorenson, Traniello, Wasserman. 4 cr, 1st sem. (NS) (lab)


†CAS BI 108 Biology II

For students who plan to concentrate in the natural sciences (including BMB) and for premedical students. Required for biology concentrators. It is highly recommended that students take CAS CH 101 before this course. High school biology is assumed. Cell and molecular biology, molecular genetics, physiology, and neurobiology. The molecular, biochemical, and cellular basis of life. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Eldred, Monette. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


•†CAS BI 111 Brain, Hormones, and Behavior

Not offered 2008/2009


•†CAS BI 114 Human Infectious Diseases: AIDS to Tuberculosis

A study of the world’s major human diseases, their causes, effects on history, pathology, and cures. Principles of immunology. Emphasis on present maladies such as AIDS, herpes, cancer, mononucleosis, tuberculosis, influenza, and hepatitis. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Godrick. 4 cr, 1st sem. (NS) (lab)


•†CAS BI 117 Global Ecology

Not intended for biology concentration credit. Principles of ecology and natural resource conservation as related to modern environmental problems and global environmental change. Topics include conservation biology and the maintenance of diversity; the structure of biotic communities; global warming; nutrient cycling; and eutrophication. Zook. 4 cr, 2nd sem. (NS)


†CAS BI 118 Biology II (Honors)

Prereq: CAS CH 101 (or equivalent), AP Biology score of 4 or 5 (or equivalent), and consent of instructor. Alternative to BI 108 for well-prepared students. Selected topics in introductory molecular and cell biology, physiology, and neurobiology are covered in greater depth, with emphasis on experimental strategies and critical evaluation. Early laboratory sessions focus on methods; later project laboratory emphasizes inquiry-based learning. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion, three hours lab. Dionne, Jacobson, Tamm. 4 cr, 2nd sem. (NS) 


•†CAS BI 119 Sociobiology

Designed for non-science concentrators to fulfill natural science divisional requirements. The evolution of animal and human societies; the development of social behavior; the adaptive significance of social organization; altruism; cooperation; courtship and reproductive behavior; human sociobiology; evolutionary psychology; religion and the impact of evolutionary theory on social thought and philosophy. Three hours lecture plus discussion. Traniello. 4 cr, 2nd sem. (NS)


CAS BI 171/172 Reading in Biology I

Prereq: freshman standing, consent of instructor, and completed application. Library research on a well-defined topic in biological sciences, chosen in conjunction with a faculty member. Individual conferences and discussion with the faculty member are required as well as a paper presentation. Does not carry concentration credit in biology. Staff. 2 cr, both sem.


CAS BI 191, 192 Undergraduate Research in Biology

Prereq: consent of instructor. Research in biological science for students at the freshman level. Students design and implement a research project with a faculty member. For elective credit only. Staff. 2 cr, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 201 Introduction to Cellular and Systems Neuroscience

Prereq: CAS BI 108 and CAS CH 102 or consent or instructor. An introduction to the basic principles of neuronal excitability and the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neural communication, development, and plasticity. Focus on individual sensory and motor systems. Also offered as CAS NE 201. Dionne. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 203 Cell Biology (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 108, CAS CH 102, or equivalent. Coreq: CAS CH 203 or equivalent. Principles of cellular organization and function: biological molecules, flow of genetic information, membranes and subcellular organelles, and cell regulation. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Bradham, Cooper, Hausman. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 206 Genetics (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 108, or equivalent. Coreq: CAS CH 203. Principles of classical, molecular, and evolutionary genetics derived from analytical, molecular, and whole genome cytological evidence in animals, plants, and microorganisms. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Celenza. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


•CAS BI 211 Human Physiology

Prereq: CAS BI 105 and 106 or CAS BI 108 or equivalent. Some knowledge of chemistry and anatomy assumed. Not for concentration credit; Biology concentrators should take CAS BI 315. Introduction to principles of systemic mammalian physiology with special reference to humans. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Patt. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 213 Honors Cell Biology

Prereq: CAS BI 108 and CAS CH 102 or their equivalents with a grade of B+ or better in both; or, to replace either the biology or chemistry prerequisite, a score of 5 on the corresponding AP test. Coreq: CAS CH 203 or equivalent. Advanced alternative to BI 203 emphasizing depth of coverage, class discussion, and reading research papers. Molecular basis of cell structure and function, including genome organization, gene expression, membranes, subcellular organelles, cell signaling, cell cycle, programmed cell death, stem cells, and cancer. Cooper, Hausman, Bradham. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 230 Behavioral Endocrinology (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 108 or CAS BI 118 and sophomore standing. Hormonal control of reproductive behaviors and social affiliation, aggression, fluid homeostasis and feeding, biological rhythms including seasonal reproduction, stress, learning and memory, psychiatric illness, and steroid abuse. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Baum. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 260 Marine Biology (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 107 or consent of instructor. Life in the seas: its ecology, evolution, and human impacts. Includes behavioral, physiological, structural, ecological, and evolutionary perspectives. A prerequisite for the Marine Semester. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Atema. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 271/272 Reading in Biology II

Prereq: sophomore standing, consent of instructor, and completed application. Library research on a well-defined topic in biological sciences, chosen in conjunction with a faculty member. Individual conferences and discussion with the faculty member are required as well as a paper presentation. Does not carry concentration credit in biology. Staff. 2 cr, both sem.


†CAS BI 281, 282 Fundamentals of Biology I, II

Prereq: CAS CH 182 or equivalent, and consent of instructor. Limited to seven-year medical and dental students. Fundamentals of cell biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, immunology, and physiology. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion, (three hours lab BI 281 only). Staff. 4 cr each, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 291, 292 Undergraduate Research in Biology II

Prereq: consent of instructor. Research in biological science for students at the sophomore level. Students design and implement a research project with a faculty member. For elective credit only. Staff. 2 cr, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 301 Invertebrate Zoology (EBE)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 302 Vertebrate Zoology (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 107. Methods and principles of comparative vertebrate zoology. Phylogeny, natural history, adaptation, and taxonomy. Laboratory emphasis on correlation among structural, physiological, and evolutionary features of selected vertebrates by both dissection and experimentation. Field trips. Two hours lecture, six hours lab. Wasserman. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 303 Ecology (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 107; CAS BI 206 recommended. Investigation of ecological processes and patterns at the individual, population, community, and ecosystem level. An evolutionary approach is emphasized. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. One research paper and one daylong field trip required. Finzi, Kunz. 4 cr, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 304 Principles of Morphogenesis (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 107, BI 108, or equivalent. CAS BI 203 or BI 206 recommended. Principles of differentiation and development of the body systems of animals, with emphasis on vertebrates. The relationships of morphology to gene function and physiology are stressed. Three hours lecture, two hours lab. Patt. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 305 Plant Biology (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 107 and CAS BI 108. A basic introduction to the plant sciences, including plant structure and diversity; reproduction, growth, and development; and economic and medicinal uses. Emphasis on new developments in the plant sciences. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Primack. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 306 Biology of Global Change (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 107 and CAS CH 101 or CH 171. Coreq: CAS CH 101. The ecological impacts of human activity on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Climate change, forest decline, eutrophication, acidification, loss of species diversity, and restoration of ecosystems. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Templer. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 307 Biogeography

Prereq: CAS BI 107 & CAS GE 101. Examines the spatial distribution of plants and animals from historical, ecological, and analytical perspectives. Environmental and human influences on species distribution, abundance, and diversity are considered, as are changes resulting from past and projected climate change. Also offered as CAS GE 307. N. Phillips. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 308 Genetics Laboratory (CM)

Prereq: BI 203 and 206, senior standing, and consent of instructor. Classical and molecular genetic techniques such as mutant selection and screening, complementation, mapping, and cloning are taught using the genetic model systems Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Arabidopsis thaliana. Short-term and long-term projects in which students formulate and test hypotheses. Six hours lab. Celenza. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 310 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 107, BI 108 or 118, or equivalent. Comparative analysis of structural and functional anatomy of vertebrates. Three hours lecture, four hours lab. Patt. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 311 General Microbiology (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 107, 108 and CAS CH 101, 102; CAS BI 203 recommended. Biology of bacteria and related microorganisms; morphology, physiology, genetics, ecology, and control. Introduction to pathogenicity and host reactions. Three hours lecture, four hours lab. Golubic. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 315 Systems Physiology (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 108 or 118, or ENG BE 209, and CH 101 and 102 or equivalent. An introduction to physiological principles applied across all levels of organization (cell, tissue, organ system). Intended to prepare the student for more advanced courses in physiology. Topics include homeostasis and neural, muscle, cardiopulmonary, renal, endocrine, and metabolic physiology. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Widmaier. 4 cr, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 325 Principles of Neuroscience (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 203 or consent of instructor. Fundamentals of the nervous system, emphasizing synaptic transmission; hierarchical organization; autonomic nervous system; mechanisms of sensory perception; reflexes and motor function; biorhythms; and neural mechanisms of feeding, mating, learning, and memory. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Lin. 4 cr, 1st & 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 371/372 Reading in Biology III

Prereq: junior standing, consent of instructor, and completed application. Library research on a well-defined topic in biological sciences, chosen in conjunction with a faculty member. Individual conferences and discussion with the faculty member are required as well as paper presentation. Does not carry concentration credit in biology. Staff. 2 cr, both sem.


CAS BI 385 Immunology

Prereq: CAS BI 203 and BI 206 and junior standing. The constituents and regulation of mammalian immune systems are described at the levels of the gene, protein, and cell. Topics include nonspecific, T cell, and B cell recognition and responses, genetics of immune receptors, inflammation, tolerance, memory, evolution, and manipulation of defense systems. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Godrick. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 391, 392 Undergraduate Research in Biology III

Prereq: consent of instructor. Research in biological science for students at the junior level. Students design and implement a research project with a faculty member. Staff. 2 or 4 cr, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 401, 402 Senior Independent Work in Biology

Prereq: senior standing, cumulative GPA in biology of at least 3.5, consent of instructor, and approval of application by department and College honors committees. Successful completion of the full 8-credit course may lead to a degree with distinction; all 8 credits count toward concentration credit. Laboratory or field research projects chosen under supervision of regular member of Department of Biology. Minimum of 12 hours per week in lab or fieldwork, not including preparation or evaluation time. Research topic must be defined at time of registration. Course grade determined by laboratory performance, written report, and oral presentation to the faculty. Staff. 4 cr, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 407 Animal Behavior (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI107. Ethological approach to animal behavior; physiological, ontogenic, and phylogenic causes; and adaptive significance of behavior examined within an evolutionary framework, minimally including humans. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Wasserman. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 410 Cellular Aspects of Development and Differentiation (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 203 and 206 or consent of instructor. Contemporary aspects of embryonic development, drawing from current literature. Emphasis on the use of experimental approaches to address topics such as polarity in the egg, body axis specification, embryonic patterning, and organogenesis. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Deshler, McCall. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 414 Ornithology (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 107. Examines the behavior, ecology and morphology, physiology, classification, and evolution of birds. Flight, navigation, migration, territorial courtship, nesting, and parental behavior. Field trips. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion and demonstrations. (Offered alternate years.) Wasserman. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 415 Biology of Mammals (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 302 and CAS BI 310. Examines the behavior, ecology, morphology, distribution, physiology, systematics, conservation, and evolution of mammals. Research paper and one weekend field trip required. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Kunz. 4 cr, 1st sem. 


CAS BI 417 Lakes and Rivers

Prereq: CAS BI 107, 108 or 118, and PY 105, 106, and CH 101, 102. Examines the interrelational and biological parameters that determine the function of lakes and rivers as ecosystems from an interdisciplinary perspective combining elements of geography, geology, hyrdology, physics, chemistry, and biology. Theoretical and practical aspects are considered. Three hours lecture, three hours lab. Golubic. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 421 Biochemistry I (CM)

Prereq: CAS CH 204 or CH 214 or CH 212 or equivalent. Introductory biochemistry. Protein structure and folding, enzyme mechanisms, kinetics, and allostery; nucleic acid structure and chemistry; recombinant DNA; lipids and membrane structure; bioenergetics; vitamins and coenzymes; introduction to intermediary metabolism. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion, four hours lab. Tolan, Liu. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 422 Biochemistry II (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI/CH 421. Cell metabolism, with special emphasis on the uptake of food materials, the integration and regulation of catabolic, anabolic and anaplerotic routes, and the generation and utilization of energy. Lectures include consideration of events in prokaryotic and eu-karyotic organisms. Three hours lecture, four hours lab, one hour discussion. Kornberg. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 423 Marine Biogeochemistry (EBE)

Prereq: CAS CH 101 and CAS CH 102 or BUMP semester and cases 144 or consent of instructor. Oceanic nutrient and biogeochemical cycling in the context of the marine response to global change. Links between local and global scales are emphasized. Topics include oceanic productivity, iron limitation, oceanic glacial carbon dioxide budget, biogenic particle fluxes, oceanic glacial-interglacial biogeochemistry. Murray. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 425 General Endocrinology (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 315. Chemical and physiological principles of  hormonal integration in animals, emphasizing chemistry, biosynthesis, mechanisms of action, and homeostatic function of vertebrate hormones. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. I. Callard. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 442 Physiology and Biochemistry of Reproduction (PER/Neuro)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 443 Terrestrial Biogeochemistry

Prereq: CAS BI 107 or CAS ES 101 or CAS ES 105 and CH 101/102, or consent of instructor. The patterns and processes controlling carbon and nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. Links between local and global scales are emphasized. Topics include net primary production, nutrient use efficiency, and biogeochemical transformation. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Finzi. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 444 Neuroethology (NEU)

Prereq: CAS BI 325 or either CAS BI 201 or CAS NE 201, consent of instructor. Cellular and molecular basis of behavior, with emphasis on functional physiology of neurons, interactions among neurons, and the organization of sensory-motor systems. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Yamaguchi. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 445 Cellular and Molecular Neurophysiology (PER/Neuro)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 446 Biology of the Cell Cycle (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 203 and BI 206. Temporal organization and regulation of cellular function. Includes theory and analysis of methodologies applicable to cell proliferation, cell synchrony, molecular genetics, biochemistry, and physiology of cell cycle phases. Emphasis on the molecular regulation of growth and differentiation in eukaryotic organisms, from yeast to humans. Readings in original research literature. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Monette. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 448 Biodiversity and Conservation Biology (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 303 or consent of instructor. The study of biological diversity and modern methods to protect endangered plant and animal species. The environment, population, and genetic and human factors that affect the survival of species are examined for temperate and tropical communities, as well as terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Primack. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 455 Developmental Neurobiology (PER/Neuro or CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 203 and 325 or consent of instructor. Fundamental principles of developmental neurobiology, stressing molecular mechanisms that underlie early neural development, differentiation, process outgrowth, and behavior. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Man. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 463 Chemosensory Biology (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 260 and consent of instructor. Fundamentals of sensory biology with focus on chemical signals. Principles of physics, chemistry, and statistics describe signal noise distributions. Chemical stimuli from the perspective of the animal and its receptor cells and organs. Atema. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 466 Marine Ecology (EBE)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 468 Marine Microbial Ecology (EBE)

Prereq: MS Core or consent of instructor and director. Survey of the diversity of marine bacteria, algae, protozoa, fungi, and metazoa. Focus on fundamental role of their communities in the flow of materials and energy through aquatic ecosystems from Arctic to deep sea vents. Laboratory exercises examine the theory and application of methodological advances in the area of field microbial ecology. Golubic. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 471, 472 Readings in Biology

Prereq: junior or senior standing, cumulative GPA in biology of at least 3.0, and consent of instructor. Intensive library research on a well-defined subject, followed by individual conferences and discussion with a faculty member. May be taken as preparation for CAS BI 401, 402, 491, and 492. Does not carry concentration credit in biology. 2 cr each, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 477 Principles of Marine Pollution (EBE)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 481 Molecular Biology of the Neuron

Prereq: CAS BI 203. Topics include electrical properties of neurons, a survey of neurotransmitters, molecular structure and function of receptors, synaptic transmission, intracellular signaling, and the molecular biology of sensory transduction. Three hours lecture with discussions. Tsunoda. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 485 Biology of Single Cell Eukaryotes

Prereq: CAS BI 203 and CAS BI 206. Free-living, symbiotic and pathogenic unicellular eukaryotes: their structure, reproduction, life-cycles, feeding, development, physiology, behavior, and use in cell biology. Three hours lecture, with discussions. Tamm. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 486 Biological Design for Substainable Development (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 107, one EBE course numbered CAS BI 260 or higher. Study of biological constraints on the problem of human society’s relationship with the ecosystems, terrestrial and marine, that sustain it. Case studies combining natural history, ecological theory, dynamical modeling, and experimental design in the search for workable solutions. Kaufman. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 491, 492 Undergraduate Research in Biology IV

Prereq: consent of instructor. Research in biological science for students at the senior level. Students design and implement a research project with a faculty member. A minimum of 12 hours per week in lab or fieldwork, not including preparation or evaluation time. Research topic must be defined at the time of registration. Course grade is to be determined by laboratory performance and written report. Staff. 4 cr, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 495 Seminar in Research

Prereq: junior or senior standing and consent of instructor. For research students to consider issues of ethics in science and help develop methods in data gathering, analysis, and presentation of their own research activities. Students analyze research papers, grant proposals, and their own work; a written paper and oral presentation are required. Jacobson. 2 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 503 Symbiosis (EBE)

Prereq: senior standing. Explores a dominant survival mechanism in the Earth’s history. Emphasizes partner integration in cell evolution, metabolic basis of the associations, the ubiquity of such symbioses in all ecosystems, and the study of key symbiotic systems on Earth today, including coral reefs, mycorrhizae/plants, and lichens. Three hours lecture. Zook. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 504 Evolution (EBE)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 506 Phenotypic Plasticity

Prereq: CAS BI 107 and either 303 or 304 or consent of instructor. Explores the flexible phenotype as a product of development and target of natural selection, and addresses the role of plasticity in ecological interactions and evolutionary diversity. Topics: plasticity genetics, evolution, developmental mechanisms, functional ecology, learning, and diversification of life. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Warkentin. 4 cr, 1st sem.

CAS BI 508 Behavioral Ecology (EBE)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 512 Mammalian Ecology (EBE)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 520 Sensory Neurobiology (PER/Neuro)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 527, 528 Biochemistry Laboratory I, II

Prereq: CAS CH 204, CH 212, CH 214, or CH 282. First semester emphasizes the purification and characterization of proteins and DNA. Second semester emphasizes protein, carbohydrate, nucleic acid, and lipid chemistry. Development and use of modern instrumentation and techniques. Same as CAS CH 527, 528 and the laboratory portion of CAS BI/CH 421, 422. Required for BMB students enrolled concurrently in GMS BI 555, 556. Four hours lab, one hour discussion. Tolan. 2 cr each, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 530 Forest Ecology

Prereq: CAS BI 107 and CAS BI 303 or CAS BI 306, or consent of instructor. The major biotic and abiotic factors influencing forest ecosystem composition, structure, and function. Role of solar radiation, hydrology, soils, succession, and management of forest ecosystems. Includes New England case study. Three hours lecture plus discussion. Meets with CAS GE 530. Templer. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 531 Ichthyology I: Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution of Fish (EBE)

Prereq: MS Core or consent of instructor and director; CAS BI 303 or BI 310 are recommended. A comprehensive introduction to fish biology and systematics. Emphasis on phylogenetic relationships, ecology, and behavior. Labs include morphological studies of specimens and behavioral studies of live fish. This course is a prerequisite for the field course. Lobel. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 532 Field Biology of Belize Coral Reefs: Expeditionary Ichthyology (EBE)

Prereq: CAS BI 531, MS Core and CAS BI 531, or consent of the instructor and director. Builds on the basic ichthyology course, from which students apply their knowledge to the in-depth study of fishes in the wild. Focus on students’ independent research projects. Primarily snorkling, scuba optional. Taught in Belize, Central America. Lobel. 4 cr, 1st sem. 


CAS BI 536 Molecular Ecology and Evolution

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 544 Cell Motility and Cytoskeleton (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 203 or consent of instructor. Investigation of the structures, molecules, and forces responsible for muscle contraction, cell locomotion, chromosome movement and cell division, ciliary and flagellar motion, bacterial chemotaxis, motility symbiosis, and other types of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell motility. Three hours lecture with discussions. Tamm. 4 cr, 1st sem. 


CAS BI 545 Neurobiology of Motivated Behavior (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 315, BI 325, or consent of instructor. Molecular and neuroendocrine mechanisms controlling reproductive and parental behaviors, ingestive behaviors and metabolism, circadian rhythms, pain perception, and reward in vertebrates. Three hours lecture plus student-led discussions of relevant research papers. Baum. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 547 Marine Invertebrates: Natural History and Molecular Phylogeny

Prereq: MS Core or consent of instructor and director. Lecture and laboratory course which examines the origin and evolution of marine invertebrates using traditional methods based largely on anatomical and ecological criteria, as well as the latest molecular methods. Finnerty. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 549 Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution (EBE)

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 552 Molecular Biology I (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 203, 206. Synthesis, structure, and function of biologically important macromolecules (DNA, RNA, and proteins). Regulation and control of the synthesis of RNA and proteins. Introduction to molecular biology of eukaryotes. Discussion of molecular biological techniques, including genetics and recombinant DNA techniques. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Loechler. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 553 Molecular Biology II (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 552. BI/CH 421/422 recommended. Continuation of CAS BI 552 with emphasis on eukaryotes. Major areas of focus include genome organization, mechanisms of gene regulation, and cell signaling. Topics covered include genomics, mouse transgenics systems, signal transduction, chromatin structure, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Naya. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 554 Neuroendocrinology (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: CAS BI 315 or equivalent. Studies how the two major integrative organ systems of animals, the endocrine and the nervous systems, interact to control physiological and behavioral aspects of reproduction, development, growth, biological rhythms, and homeostasis. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. G. Callard. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 555 Techniques in Cell Biology (CM)

Prereq: senior standing, CAS BI 203 and BI 206, and consent of instructor. Principles and use of microscopic optical systems, phase and interference contrast, fluorescence, video microscopy, photomicroscopy, and darkroom techniques. Immunolabeling and fluorescent probes of molecules and structures in cells, cell enumeration, cell fusion, proliferation assays, cell growth kinetics, clonal cell analysis, viability testing, growth factor and hormone induced differentiation, and enzyme marker assays. Eight hours lab. TBA. 4 cr, 2nd sem.


CAS BI 556 Membrane Biochemistry (CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 552 and CAS BI 421 and CAS CH 421. Structure and biosynthesis of membrane proteins and lipids, regulation of cholesterol homeostasis, protein prenylation and fatty acylation, receptor-mediated endocytosis, protein trafficking, and cell signaling. Critical readings of research publications employing modern techniques of biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology to study the structure and function of biological membranes. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Waxman. 4 cr, 1st sem.


CAS BI 557 Biological Transport Mechanisms

Prereq: consent of instructor; familiarity with membrane biochemistry strongly recommended. A survey of transmembrane and intracellular transport mechanisms and their regulation. Relationships of transport physiology, metabolism, and energetics. Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Jacobson. 4 cr, 2nd sem. 


CAS BI 572 Advanced Genetics

Not offered 2008/2009


CAS BI 575 Techniques in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience (PER/Neuro, CM)

Prereq: CAS BI 325 and junior or senior standing. Laboratory course in which techniques used in cellular neuroscience are taught. Subjects covered include sensory coding, synaptic transmission, neural excitability, and cellular neuroanatomy. Eight hours lab. Wachowiak, Lin. 4 cr, 1st sem. 


CAS BI 581, 582 Seminar in Biology

Prereq: consent of instructor. Open to seniors and graduate students concentrating in biology. Informal discussion and student reports on subjects of current interest based on an intensive study of the literature. Topics vary. List of approved seminars available at preregistration each semester. 2 cr each, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 583, 584 Seminar: Progress in Cell and Molecular Biology

Open to graduate students only. 2 cr each, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 585, 586 Seminar: Progress in Physiology, Endocrinology, and Reproduction

2 cr each, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 589, 590 Seminar: Progress in Marine Science

2 cr each, 1st & 2nd sem.


CAS BI 599 Neurobiology of Synapses (PER/Neuro)

Prereq: junior standing and CAS BI 325 and BI 481 (or BI 445) or consent of instructor. Structure, function, and composition of different types of synapses in the nervous system. Changes in synapse structure during synaptogenesis and plasticity as a cellular basis for higher brain functions such as learning and memory. Synaptic pathology in neural disease processes. (Offered alternate years.) Three hours lecture, one hour discussion. Man. 4 cr, 1st sem.


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