Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences Undergraduate Courses

Understanding medical terminology is fundamental for anyone working in the sciences. It is the language of the technician or researcher involved in biotechnology, biomedical investigations, or clinical research. Student learn the analysis and construction of medical words within a context of scientific concepts. After the basics, students learn the anatomy and diseases of the following systems: male and female reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, and blood.   [ 2 cr. ]

Continue building your medical vocabulary as you learn the anatomy and diseases of the following systems: digestive, urinary, lymphatic/immune and endocrine. 2 cr.   [ 2 cr. ]

Provides a theoretical and practical foundation in laboratory science. Students are introduced to the scientific method, laboratory mathematics, chemistry, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and immunology. Students learn hands-on solution making, electrophoresis, protein quantitation and other commonly used laboratory methods. Emphasis is placed on lab safety, proper handling of instruments, careful following of written instructions for lab procedures, maintenance of lab notebooks, and data collection, presentation and analysis. Laboratory course.   [ 4 cr. ]

Biotechnology I introduces students to the basic sciences of biotechnology (cell biology, immunology, DNA/molecular biology) and describes DNA technologies used in gene therapy and microarray technology and in the production of recombinant protein drugs, antibodies, vaccines, and transgenic animals/plants. The challenges of bringing protein drugs from R&D through large scale manufacturing and the FDA approval process are also discussed.   [ 2 cr. ]

Biotechnology II focuses on the applications of biotechnology to medicine and other disciplines. Through a combination of lectures, videos, readings of scientific articles, class discussions and presentations, students explore recent developments in the biotech industry. Topics can include stem cell therapy and animal cloning, novel drugs and vaccines for emerging infectious diseases, immunotherapies to treat cancer, and the potential of genomics, proteomics and pharmacogenomics to identify drug targets and identify disease processes.   [ 2 cr. ]

This course provides a practical understanding of anatomic structures and coordinates this knowledge with the various functions of the human body. We will also explore regulatory processes that integrate cells, tissues, organs and systems. Topics include: organization of the body, tissue development, cellular structure and function as well as the integumentary (skin), skeletal, and muscular systems. The last third of the course focuses on the nervous system. The course will incorporate clinical material throughout, and laboratory exercises will correlate with the lecture material.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course description is currently under construction.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course prepares students for math calculations commonly used in biotech and other biomedical science laboratories, and in BLCS courses such as GMS BT 110, 413, and 454. Topics include scientific notation, metric system, solution concentration, dilutions, and logarithmic scales. Some classes are held in the laboratory so that students can apply math skills to solution making, serial dilutions and standard curves. Students also learn strategies for solving word problems and explore the essential elements of data organization, summarization and presentation.   [ 4 cr. ]

Technical Writing for Clinical Research introduces students to the structure, content, and regulatory requirements of documents created for the clinical research industry. The course reviews the FDA regulations and ICH guidances for drug, device and biologic documents, AMA Manual of Style Guidelines, and common industry standards. Students will learn to compose study abstracts, clinical protocols, informed consent forms, and clinical study reports.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course introduces students to laboratory instrumentation fundamentals. Topics include: safety; the measurement of viscosity, melting point, and refractive index. We will also explore chromatographic instruments (gas and high pressure liquid); fundamentals of method development; infra-red (IR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) principles. Statistical methods and the analysis of errors will be reviewed. Course format will include readings and presentations. (First eight weeks).  [ 2 cr. ]

Provides a detailed knowledge of the role of Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) and a Quality Department in the development and manufacture of biopharmaceutical products. Topics include the goals and obligations of the Food and Drug Administration, a review of the CGMP subparts, and the responsibilities of a Quality Department in ensuring product quality.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course focuses on the development of computer skills essential to modern-day laboratory or clinical researchers. Statistical analysis tools and data presentation techniques will be explored using Microsoft Excel, while Microsoft Access will be employed for data integration, organization and storage through the development of databases. Students will survey existing bioinformatics databases and tools, and will examine how to integrate external data sources into their own research. A brief introduction to current trends in computational genomics will also be discussed. No previous computing skills or classwork are required to take this course.   [ 4 cr. ]

Prereq: Medical Terminology. This course is designed to familiarize students with diseases of interest in public health. We will cover infectious diseases and genetic disorders, and how they contribute to global cultural and population burdens. Students will begin to make connections between previous coursework, such as cell biology and anatomy, as well as new concepts, including immunology and experimental designs, as they pertain to the study of human disease. The goal of the course is to give student a knowledge-base that can prepare them for thinking critically should they decide to work in a research or public health setting.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course is for undergraduate students familiar with chemistry and biology. An overview of biochemistry is provided to prepare students for medical school or for advanced undergraduate or general graduate science courses. Topics covered include protein structure and function, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids structure and function.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course introduces students to laboratory automation fundamentals. Topics include: non-robotic automated work stations; robotic workstations and systems; high throughput technologies and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for lab automation. Optimization of organic process chemistry in automated systems (fundamentals of statistical design of experiments) will be reviewed. Course format will include readings and presentations. (Second eight weeks).   [ 2 cr. ]

This course will provide students with an introductory overview of the world of medical devices, from bandages to defibrillators. We will explore what the applicable regulations are, starting with the FDA, and how companies use these regulations to guide the design, development, and marketing of their products. Most classes will contain an interesting mix of rules, realities, and renegades, that includes a unique component called, "At the Drugstore," where students will focus an educated eye on commonly found items on the shelf. In addition, students will learn about jobs and career opportunities within the medical device industry and how to gain entry into the field.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course description is currently under construction.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course will introduce students to eukaryotic cell structure and function. Topics include membrane structure, intracellular organelles, control of gene expression, cell motility and transport, cell communication and signaling, cell cycle and apoptosis, and differentiation. Students will explore the field of cell biology through readings and presentations.   [ 4 cr. ]

Clinical research auditing ensures that the rights, safety, and well being of the study subject have been protected and the clinical study data are credible. Auditing clinical trial activities provides the strict oversight of performance with the ultimate goal of having a successful submission and identifying opportunities for improvement. In this practical course, students will learn how to prepare and conduct audits, write audit observations, create an audit report and review audit report responses. In addition, students will learn how to manage audits by an outside agency. Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and regulatory requirements will be reviewed along with exploring the concept of a quality system and the writing of audit program Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Developing an audit plan will be an emphasis. Group discussions and role- playing will be used to develop practical audit techniques. This class should prepare a student for an introductory auditing position within clinical research.  [ 4 cr. ]

Focuses on techniques used to isolate and identify viral pathogens associated with human disease. Through a series of lectures, the student takes a functional approach to this subject. Covers the biology, the immune response to viral infections, the genetics of viral replication, and viral pathogenesis. Offered every other year.  [ 4 cr. ]

Biochemistry is the perfect melding of basic biology and chemistry. This course focuses on the study of life at the molecular level. We will first look at the structure and function of biomolecules including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Secondly, we will analyze how biological information is stored and transferred in the cell. We will then learn about bioenergetics and the importance of energy flow in living cells and organisms.   [ 4 cr. ]

Advanced course designed for those considering a clinical or research career in human genetics. Emphasis is on clinical cytogenetics (chromosome testing). Course will cover types of chromosome abnormalities, methodology, nomenclature and clinical significance in pregnancy, birth defects, and cancer. Laboratory work will include basic blood culture, chromosome preparation, banding, identification and karyotyping. Course will provide updated review of latest cytogenetic methodology and applications, such as FISH, comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and array CGH lab.  [ 4 cr. ]

Advanced course designed for those considering a clinical or research career in human genetics. Emphasis is on clinical molecular genetics (DNA testing). Course covers types of genetic abnormalities, methodology, nomenclature and clinical significance in pregnancy, birth defects, and cancer. Laboratory work includes basic blood extraction, DNA preparation, gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, sequencing, identification and karyotyping. Course provides updated review of latest molecular genetic methodology and applications, such as copy number analysis, chip based sequencing and next generation sequencing.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course emphasizes the molecular and cellular interactions involved in immune response. Topics covered include antibody structure and function; applications of monoclonal antibodies in biotechnology and medicine; gene rearrangements in B and T cells; cellular cooperation and the role of MHC; tolerance; and immunopathology (hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, transplantation, AIDS, cancer immunity and immunotherapy). Lab techniques covered include Flow Cytometry (FACs), ELISA, cell sorting, cell proliferation, cell death, and migration assays. Offered every other year.  [ 4 cr. ]

  [ 4 cr. ]

Familiarizes students with the theory and application of many biochemical techniques involved in protein purification and characterization, such as chromatography (ion exchange, gel permeation, hydrophobic affinity), electrophoresis and blotting techniques. Students learn to think critically about methodology, design a purification scheme, scale it up, and troubleshoot an existing plan. Special problems with recombinant proteins are also covered. The laboratory component will include a wide variety of conventional methods for protein isolation, purification, and characterization.   [ 4 cr. ]

Students learn the fundamentals of isolation, in vitro translation, DNA and genomic cloning, and the characterization and utilization of DNA clones. Students learn to think critically about research methodology and selection of appropriate techniques to achieve objectives. Introduces basic molecular biology techniques and interpretation of results. Topics include DNA restriction analysis, gel electrophoresis, isolation of DNA from E. coli, construction of recombinant DNA, molecular, and Southern blot analysis. Introduces basic molecular biology techniques and interpretation of results. Topics include DNA restriction analysis, gel electrophoresis, isolation of DNA from E. coli, construction of recombinant DNA, molecular, and Southern blot analysis.  [ 4 cr. ]

Provides the student with an understanding of clinically important microorganisms. Students become familiar with the classification, pathogenicity, identification, and prevention and treatment of diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites as well as the workings of a modern clinical microbiology laboratory. Laboratory course.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course description is currently under construction.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course focuses on mammalian genetics and DNA structure and analysis. It is intended for students interested in pursuing a career in laboratory research in an academic or industrial setting. Topics include the molecular basis of human genetic disease, DNA structure and analysis, utilization of human genome project data, and use of Internet-based bioinformatics tools. The class includes lectures, research laboratory tours, and student presentations.   [ 4 cr. ]

This online class will explore the newest information in human genetics and its legal and bioethical implications. Human genetics is the most explosive field in medicine today and its present and future involve legal and ethical decisions only imagined today. The decisions that come from the issues will be presented to professionals and lay people alike. Using audio-visuals, actual cases, discussion and lecture, this class examines cases that come straight from the headlines. Topics covered include: new reproductive techniques, genetic diseases, prenatal testing and genetic testing, DNA fingerprinting, cloning, and DNA technology. Online only.  [ 4 cr. ]

This on-line course explores the new world of assisted reproduction. Students will examine cases for their ethical and legal implications. Web sites and readings will be provided so students can synthesize information into thoughtful analyses. Topics will include in vitro fertilization, surrogacy, frozen embryos, and gene manipulation. The entire process is taught on-line. Assignments, including case analyses, quizzes and papers, will turned in over the Internet. Online course only.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course description is currently under construction.  [ 4 cr. ]

  [ 0 cr. ]

Explores the role of toxicology in society both as a safeguard to prevent injury from environmental chemicals and a tool in the investigations of suspicious deaths. Case studies, guest speakers, and group discussions will accompany lectures and demonstrations as students also explore the role of legal and medical communities as well as governmental agencies in dealing with issues.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course gives students a foundation in basic cell culture techniques used in modern cell culture labs. The topics covered will include aseptic technique, freezing and thawing of cell stocks, passage and maintenance of cells, and culture of adherent and suspension cells. Emphasis will be on practical hands-on experience and much of the class time will be devoted to laboratory work. A short lecture introduces relevant information and techniques to be performed in the laboratory. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to function in a cell culture laboratory at the level of a novice technician and be able to understand and follow basic cell culture protocols.   [ 4 cr. ]

Prereq: Anatomy & Physiology I & II. This course is designed to present an in-depth study of the endocrine system, encompassing the mechanisms of hormone action, the endocrine methodologies, the pathophysiology and diseases of the glands. Topics will cover the pituitary, the endocrine hypothalamus, the neurohypophyseal hormones, calcium metabolism, the gastrointestinal hormones, the pancreatic hormones and metabolic regulation, growth hormones, thyroid hormones, catecholamines and the sympathetic adrenal system, adrenal cortical steroid hormones, and hormones of male and female reproduction. Laboratory exercises and clinical correlations will be incorporated into the course.   [ 4 cr. ]

Prereq: Chem II and Molecular Biology. This course explores the drug discovery and development process, from which disease pathway to pursue to the evaluation of potential drugs. Methodologies used to identify and validate drug targets will be described with emphasis on biotechnology-based assays and techniques. These include DNA/RNA- and protein based therapeutics, gene therapy and stem cell based therapy. Other topics covered are ?lead optimization? and selection of drug candidates for pre-clinical testing. A hands-on laboratory component will give students practical skills while reinforcing knowledge gained during lectures.   [ 4 cr. ]

Prereq: Chem II and Molecular Biology. This course will examine how drugs developed at the laboratory bench become a focus of clinical trials and subsequently make it to the market. Topics will include review of molecular and pathophysiological aspects of several diseases and explore the basis for drug design, pre-clinical and clinical testing. Additional topics will include current technologies, clinical evaluation, regulatory approval of biological drugs, and frontiers in translational research. Lectures will be combined with discussions and paper presentations on relevant topics.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course will present the major signal transduction pathways and their crosstalk, as well as their contribution in maintaining cellular homeostasis. We will examine malfunctions in these pathways that could lead to development of different diseases. In addition, the molecular logic that underlies current and future therapies will be explored.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course explores the multiple technologies that govern key aspects of clinical trial management and regulatory filings. Students will be able to identify the various technologies that are used in the conduct of clinical trials, the regulations that govern their use, and the issues that companies face in deploying the various tools. We will examine a sample company with a clinical portfolio and students will identify the timing, importance, and integration requirements of the various technologies with emphasis on strengths and weaknesses associated with the conduct of the trial.  [ 4 cr. ]

Infectious Disease course explores principles of infection, host factors, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and clinical approach to infection of different organs and systems as well as basic description and classification of infectious agents of medical importance, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Special attention will be paid to the principles of immune control and vaccination and also to current clinical developments and problems including antibiotic resistance, nosocomial, opportunistic and emerging infections, outbreak control and bioterrorism. Upon successful completion of this course students will understand principles of infection, its epidemiology, treatment, containment and prevention, as well as biology of pathogens, including socially and medically important etiologic agents of newly emerging infections.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course is an integrative learning experience, combining a comprehensive review of the good clinical practice core principles and project management strategies applicable to clinical research during the new drug development process. Students will examine the concepts and applied techniques for cost estimation, budgeting, allocation of resources, risk management and quality assurance for clinical research projects. Project management principles and methodology are provided with special focus on planning, controlling, and coordinating individual and group efforts. Key topics include overview of modern project management in clinical trials, organization strategy and project selection; defining a project and developing a project plan and scheduling resources. Mastery of key tools and concepts introduced in this course and development of the skills vital to effective management of multidisciplinary tasks through lectures, case studies and discussions will provide a significant competitive advantage in the marketplace for clinical research professionals.   [ 4 cr. ]

Cell culture has become an indispensable tool for all areas of biomedical science. In this course students will develop the necessary routine by taking care of particular cell lines throughout the entire course. At the same time, students will examine their cell lines using advanced techniques, such as transient and stable transfections, reporter gene assays, activation of signaling pathways, induction of cell differentiation, examination of cell cycle and apoptosis, fluorescent microscopy, and FACS analysis. At the end of the course, each group will present their findings during a poster session. Laboratory course.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course examines evolving ethical and legal issues in the biosciences. Students will study existing laws and legal cases pertaining to topics such as genetic testing, gene therapy, and forensic uses of DNA. Class discussions, student presentations, case analyses and in-class lectures will be supplemented with online activities as well as the composition of a legal brief. 4 cr.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course will focus on the cellular and molecular changes that underlie the development and progression of human cancer. We will examine the pathways and processes that involve oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes to understand how they can contribute to cancer. Complex interactions including angiogenesis, tumor immunology, invasion and metastasis will be studied as well. In addition, we will cover targeted approaches to cancer therapy and the latest scientific research including cancer epigenetics, microRNAs and cancer stem cells.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course description is currently under construction.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course explains the regulatory requirements for health care products: drugs, biologics, diagnostics, and devices. The focus is on U.S. FDA regulations and their impact on product development and marketing with international requirements. Recommended for students in clinical research concentration.  [ 4 cr. ]

Introduces students to the technology, process, and responsibilities of clinical data management. We will examine study setup, case report form (CRF) design, and the data life cycle, including data collection; data validation, coding of adverse events, using standard dictionaries (such as ICD-9 or MedDRA), data review, and database lock. Data Management SOP's will be discussed within this context. An industry-leading clinical data management system (CDMS) will be utilized. We will also explore how new technologies, such as electronic data capture (EDC), affect these processes.   [ 4 cr. ]

Introduces the regulatory responsibilities of sponsors, monitors, and investigators conducting clinical trials. Practical information and exercises are designed for the clinical trial professional on procedures for ensuring GCP compliance from an industry perspective. Topics include: identifying and selecting qualified investigators, obtaining ethical approval to enroll patients, and initiating sites successfully. Also covers issues related to collecting required regulatory documentation, verifying high quality data, maintaining study materials accountability, and reporting serious adverse events. Group discussions and guest speakers help students learn the practical skills used in the field.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course covers basic principles and current methodologies used in the design and responsible conduct of clinical trials. Topics include statistical design of clinical trials, sample selection; data collection and management; patient recruitment strategies, adverse event reporting and compliance monitoring. Practical exercises will include clinical research protocol and informed consent form writing as well as design of case report forms. [4 cr.]  [ 4 cr. ]

Students examine the development and implementation of regulatory as well as ethical issues involved with conducting clinical trials. Topics include: use of human subjects, privacy and confidentiality, conflicts of interest, use of stem cells in research, federal laws affecting laboratories, and genetic testing of gene and therapy trials. There will also be discussions on landmark legal cases affecting laboratory scientists. 2 cr. summer   [ 2 cr. ]

Directed study for degree candidates only. Practical, hands-on experience in laboratory setting. Various credits and fee, as arranged with Director.  [ Var cr. ]

Directed study for degree candidates only. Practical, hands-on experience in laboratory setting. Various credits and fee, as arranged with Director.  [ Var cr. ]

Directed study offering direct exposure to the conduct of a clinical trial. Various credits and fee, as arranged with Director.  [ Var cr. ]

Directed study offering direct exposure to the conduct of a clinical trial. Various credits and fee, as arranged with Director.  [ Var cr. ]