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Biology Course Descriptions

Introductory and Core Courses

 

115 GLOBAL DIVERSITY AND THE BIOLOGY OF CONSERVATION

This is a non-majors course designed for the liberal arts student. This course explores the reasons behind the alarming loss of biodiversity occurring throughout the world today. The implications of this loss and the efforts underway to reduce the rate of loss will be main topics of the course. Students will be introduced to the different types of biodiversity, including genetic diversity, species diversity, and habitat diversity. The process and implications of species extinctions occurring worldwide will be examined in detail. The underlying biological and evolutionary processes involved in extinctions will be considered along with the role of human values and economic development in the loss of biodiversity. Principles will be illustrated through case studies of both extinctions and recovery efforts in different parts of the world. This course cannot be counted toward a major in biology. This course satisfies the international diversity requirement. Three lecture hours per week. Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

117 WOMEN, HEALTH AND REPRODUCTION

This course will deal with those aspects of human anatomy and physiology which are of special interest to women, especially those relating to sexuality and reproduction. Biological topics covered will include menstruation and menopause, female sexuality, conception, contraception, infertility, abortion, pregnancy, cancer, and AIDS. Advances in assisted reproductive technologies, hormone therapies, and genetic engineering technologies will be discussed. Not open to biology majors. This course fulfills 4 credits in the science distribution requirement and counts toward the biology minor, but not toward the major. No prerequisite. Three lecture hours per week. Offered most semesters. (4 credits)

 

(Note: at least one of the Cell Biology and Genetics I courses (161-165) will be offered every semester. These courses are specifically designed for non-majors and/or students who are thinking of majoring in Biology but who lack an extensive background in the subject. Students with more background in biology may go directly into Biology 205, Cell Biology & Genetics II, by scoring at least 70 in the Biology Placement Exam. To take this exam, contact the chair of biology.)

 

161 CELL BIOLOGY & GENETICS I—BIOTECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

This course will explore fundamental concepts in cell biology, molecular genetics, and genomics by examining the scientific basis for developing and using novel biotechnologies in agriculture and medicine. Readings, lectures, discussions, and student presentations will focus on topics such as genetic manipulation of plants or animals (e.g. "terminator technology," the creation of Golden Rice, or the use of gene therapy in humans), the application of the polymerase chain reaction for diagnostic purposes (e.g. forensic DNA fingerprinting, paternity testing, detection of genetically modified organisms), and the social implications associated with these methods. Prerequisites: none. Three lecture hours per week and one, 1.5-hour discussion section per week. Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

163 CELL BIOLOGY & GENETICS I—THE ENCHANTED CORTEX: A JOURNEY INSIDE THE BRAIN

An introduction to the fundamental concepts in cell biology and genetics through an exploration of the structure and function of the brain. Readings and discussion will focus on a number of topics that may include how chemicals produced in the brain affect emotions, mood and memory; and the effect of drugs on brain function including the use of neuroactive drugs in the treatment of "mental illness." Prerequisites: none. Three lecture hours per week and one, 1.5-hour discussion section per week. Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

164 CELL BIOLOGY & GENETICS I—BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF THERAPEUTICS

An introduction to the fundamental concepts in cell biology and genetics through an exploration of how drugs work and are used to treat various human diseases & disorders. The course will focus on cellular communication; potential gene therapies; drug effects on physiological systems and basic pharmacological principles. The weekly discussion section will explore research methods and approaches taken in the quest to treat human disease and disorders. Prerequisites: none. Three lecture hours per week and one, 1.5 hour laboratory section per week. Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

165 CELL BIOLOGY & GENETICS I—HUMAN DISEASES

An introduction to the fundamental concepts in cell biology and genetics through an exploration of human diseases such as HIV, cancer, cystic fibrosis and diabetes. The course will focus on cellular communication; bioenergetics; and gene structure, expression and inheritance. The weekly discussion section will explore research methods and approaches taken in the quest to cure human disease. Prerequisites: none. Three lecture hours per week and one, 1.5-hour discussion section per week. Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

170 BIODIVERSITY & EVOLUTION

"From so simple a beginning, endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been, and are being, evolved." Darwin's final words in the Origin of Species are an apt characterization of this course, which focuses on the diversity of life forms (morphology, physiology, genetics) and their respective evolutionary origins and relationships (phylogeny). Using recent findings from such diverse fields as molecular genetics, developmental biology, and paleontology, this course will take a comparative approach as it reviews the evolution and diversity of some of life's major taxa. Three hours lecture and one three-hour lab each week. Prerequisites: none. Every semester. (4 credits)

 

180 ECOLOGY (Same as Environmental Studies 180)

An introduction to the study of ecological and evolutionary theory and processes. The subject of this course is the natural world and the current and past processes that have shaped it. Major ecological and evolutionary patterns are described and proposed underlying mechanisms are investigated through field and laboratory studies. The impact of humans on natural systems is also examined. Three hours lecture and one three-hour lab each week. Prerequisites: none. Every semester. (4 credits)

 

205 CELL BIOLOGY & GENETICS II

Exploration of the cellular, molecular and genetic systems of living organisms. Includes an expanded exploration of bioenergetics, molecular signaling, gene expression, and the regulation of molecular processes. Prerequisites: Biology 161 or 163 or 164 or 165 or passing the Biology Placement Exam; Chemistry 111 or passing the Chemistry Placement Exam. Three lecture hours per week and one, three-hour laboratory per week. Every semester. (4 credits)

 

Upper Level Ecology Courses

 

342 ANIMAL BEHAVIOR AND ECOLOGY

A study of animals in their natural habitats. This course takes an evolutionary approach to the study of animal behavior. Through lectures, field trips, readings and discussions, students are introduced to current ideas and research methods in the field of behavioral ecology. In addition, students will become familiar with many of Minnesota's birds and mammals. Prerequisite: Biology 180 (Ecology). Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Next offered Spring 2008. (5 credits)

 

344 AQUATIC ECOLOGY

The study of freshwater organisms and their environments. Students are introduced to the ecology of lakes, streams, and ponds, especially those of Minnesota. Through lectures, field trips and laboratory experiments, students will learn to identify aquatic plants and animals and will study their interactions. Additional topics include water chemistry and environmental pollution of freshwater systems. Prerequisites: Biology 180 (Ecology), Chemistry 112, and Math 155. Three lecture hours and one five-hour laboratory per week. Fall semester. (5 credits)

 

345 FIELD BOTANY

A study of the evolution, ecology, geography, and taxonomy of vascular plants. Students learn the principles of plant classification and, through first hand experience the techniques of plant identification, collection, and preservation. Through field trips, students will become familiar with many of the local trees, wildflowers, and ferns. Prerequisite for biology majors: Biology 180 (Ecology); for others: permission of the instructor. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Next offered Fall 2008. (5 credits)

 

347 EVOLUTION

An exploration of one of the central organizing ideas of modern biology—the theory of evolution. Topics that will be covered include natural and sexual selection, comparative methods, speciation, population and quantitative genetics, molecular evolution, the origin of life, and others. The course will consist of lectures and discussions based on readings from a variety of sources. Three lecture/discussion hours per week. Prerequisites: Biology 170 (Biodiversity & Phylogeny), Biology 180 (Ecology), 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II), or permission of the instructor. Fall semester. (4 credits)

 

Upper Level Molecular and Cellular Biology Courses

 

351 BIOCHEMISTRY I (Same as Chemistry 351)

A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the chemistry of biological molecules, elements of physical biochemistry, the structure of proteins, the mechanisms and kinetics of enzyme catalyzed reactions, and selected topics in intermediary metabolism, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Prerequisites: Chemistry 212, Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II), or permission of the instructor. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Every semester. (5 credits)

 

352 BIOCHEMISTRY II (Same as Chemistry 352)

A continuation of Biology/Chemistry 351. A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the metabolism of amino acids, nucleotides, the regulation of biochemical pathways, and topics in molecular biology such as gene replication, the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, and recent advances in genomics and proteomics. Prerequisites: Biology/Chemistry 351 or permission of the instructor. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Spring semester. (4 credits).

 

353 ADVANCED GENETICS

An in-depth study of the experimental approaches used to test modern principles of genetics. Using case studies from the primary literature, this course will examine topics such as Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance patterns, epistasis, pleiotropy, identification and mapping of mutations, and the use of molecular biology tools to provide mechanistic insight into biological questions. Prerequisites: Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II) and Chemistry 211. Three lecture hours. Alternate years. (4 credits)

 

355 VIROLOGY

This seminar course will focus on the molecular biology of viruses and subviral entities such as prions and viroids. Topics will include viral infection and replication, morphology, oncogenesis, and virus-host interactions. Viruses of epidemiologic and biotechnological importance, including new and emergent viruses, will be emphasized. Prerequisites: Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II), and Biology 357 or 358 or 353 or permission of the instructor. Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

356 CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROSCIENCE

A study of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the biological basis of behavior. While particular emphasis is placed on the molecular and cellular components of the nervous system, these components are the foundation for the analysis of various systems. Discussion topics may include the role of neurotransmitters, neuromodulators and receptors in learning and memory, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and drug addiction. The laboratory will be used to introduce major research techniques in neurobiology. These techniques will be used in independently designed research projects. Prerequisites: Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II), Chemistry 211 (Organic Chemistry I), Biology 367 (Human Physiology) or Psychology 248 (Behavioral Neuroscience) or permission of instructor. Three lecture hours and one four-hour laboratory per week. Spring semester. (5 credits)

 

357 IMMUNOLOGY

An introduction to the mammalian immune system. The genetic and cellular basis of the immune response is explored through lectures, readings from primary and secondary literature, and discussions. Current methods in immunological research are introduced in the laboratory. Prerequisites: Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II) and Chemistry 112. Three hours of lecture/discussion and four to six hours of laboratory per week. Fall semester. (5 credits)

 

358 MICROBIOLOGY

This course is an introduction to the subdisciplines of microbiology: virology, bacteriology, immunology, parasitology and mycology. Emphasis is given to our efforts to understand and control microbial growth processes. Additional focus will be on the effect of microbes on humans, especially as relates to disease processes. The laboratory emphasizes determinative microbiology. Prerequisites: Biology 170 (Biodiversity and Evolution), Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II), or permission of instructor. Chemistry 211 recommended. Three hours of lecture/discussion and four to five hours of laboratory per week. Spring semester. (5 credits)

 

Upper Level Organismal Biology Courses

 

250 NEUROANATOMY

The anatomical structure and function of the human nervous system will be explored through analysis of human brain specimens, and artistic photographic and computer graphic representations of nervous system structures at both the microscopic and systems levels. This course is designed to provide an understanding of the neuroanatomical landmarks and features required for further study in neuroscience. It is designed for students with a strong interest in neuroscience. Prerequisites: Biology 163 (Enchanted Cortex) or Psychology 180 (Brain, Mind and Behavior) or permission of the instructor. Offered occasionally. (2 credits)

 

361 ANIMAL DIVERSITY

A broad introduction to the diversity and evolution of animal life. Students will become familiar with the major and minor groups of animals from sponges and jellyfish to insects and vertebrates. Through lectures, discussions, field trips and laboratory observation, students will learn to identify the metazoan phyla and understand their evolutionary history and relationships. Additional topics include the origin and diversification of animal body plans, reproductive strategies, and biogeography. Prerequisites: Biology 170 (Biodiversity and Evolution). Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Spring semester. (5 credits)

 

363 ORNITHOLOGY

A study of the biology of birds. Through lectures, field trips, field projects, dissections, and discussions of the primary literature students are introduced to avian ecology, behavior, evolution, functional morphology, physiology, distribution and systematics. Students will learn the major avian taxa with special emphasis on the common birds of MN in general and the Twin Cities in particular. Prerequisite: Biology 180 (Ecology). Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab each week. Spring semester. (4 credits)

 

367 HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY

An introduction to human physiology. The course focuses on the major physiological systems of the human body (e.g., circulatory, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital and the nervous system). A special emphasis is placed on homeostatic mechanisms and the role of the endocrine and nervous system in this process. Lecture/discussion will span the basic structure and function of these systems as well as the underlying cellular mechanisms. Prerequisite: Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II). Three hours of lecture and one three-hour lab each week. Fall semester. (4 credits)

 

368 PLANT PHYSIOLOGY

An in-depth study of the experimental approaches used test modern principles of genetics. Using case studies from the primary literature, this course will examine topics such as Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance patterns, epistasis, pleiotropy, identification and mapping of mutations, and the use of molecular biology tools to provide mechanistic insight into biological questions. Prerequisites: Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II), Chemistry 112 recommended. Spring semester. (5 credits)

 

369 DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY

This course aims to integrate organismal, cellular, genetic and molecular approaches to the study of animal development. We will analyze a diversity of mechanisms, ranging from ones that set up pattern formation in the unfertilized egg to those governing morphogenesis of organ systems. Evolution of developmental mechanisms will also be discussed. The lab component will incorporate both descriptive and experimental embryological techniques. Prerequisite: Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II). Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory period per week. Fall semester. (5 credits)

 

Seminar and Research Courses

 

472 RESEARCH IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Collaborative research with a faculty member focused on understanding the molecular genetic mechanisms underlying developmental and physiological processes in plants and/or animals. This research course requires students to use journal papers as the focus for class reading and critical analysis. Through class presentations, discussions, and intensive bench work, students will become familiar with several research methodologies for isolating and manipulating DNA, for analyzing gene expression, and for studying gene function. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing, Biology 205 (Cell Biology & Genetics II), and permission of the instructor. Fall semester. (4 credits)

 

473 RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY

Collaborative research with a faculty member on a current problem in the field of immunology. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing, Biology 367 (Human Physiology) and Biology 357 (Immunology), Chemistry 212 and permission of the instructor. Spring semester. (4 credits)

 

474 RESEARCH IN BIOCHEMISTRY

Students will be given an opportunity to design and execute a research project in biochemistry in collaboration with a faculty member. In addition to extensive laboratory research, readings and discussion of primary literature and writing of both research proposals and scientific papers will be pursued. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing, Biology/Chemistry 351 (Biochemistry I) and permission of the instructor. Spring semester. (4 credits)

 

475 RESEARCH IN NEUROSCIENCE

This course offers an opportunity to work with a faculty member on current research in neuroscience. Extensive laboratory research, readings and discussion of the scientific literature related to the research area are undertaken. A research project is selected in consultation with the instructor. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing, Biology 367 (Human Physiology) and Biology 356 (Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience), and Chemistry 211 and permission of the instructor. Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

481 SEMINAR IN EVOLUTION

An exploration of one of the central organizing ideas of modern biology—the theory of evolution. Topics that will be covered include natural and sexual selection, adaptation, comparative methods, phylogeny, speciation, population genetics, molecular evolution, the origin of life, and others. The course will consist of lectures and discussions based on readings drawn from a variety of sources with an emphasis on primary literature. Three lecture/discussion hours per week. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing and Biology 170 (Biodiversity & Evolution), or permission of the instructor. Fall semester. (4 credits)

 

482 SEMINAR IN CONSERVATION BIOLOGY

In this seminar, students will examine many of the ideas and theories that are currently defining the fields of ecology, conservation biology, and restoration ecology. This course is designed for a variety of students interested in environmental education, environmental issues, conservation, restoration, ecological research, and graduate school in any of those areas. Classes will consist of lectures, discussions, readings from the primary literature, student presentations, a group field project, and an occasional field trip. Students will also gain experience writing research proposals. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing, Biology 180 (Ecology) and at least one other upper-level field course with a lab. Most spring semesters. (4 credits)

 

484 SEMINAR IN EVOLUTIONARY PHYSIOLOGY

This seminar integrates physiological mechanisms, behavior, ecological processes, and evolutionary history to understand how and why animals work the way they do and why they are distributed the way they are. We will examine the diverse mechanisms by which animals exchange material and energy with their environments (e.g. thermal relations, gas exchange, water balance) and how they maintain homeostasis. Student presentations will focus on unique physiological systems (e.g. echolocation) and/or physiological adaptations to unique environments (e.g. the deep sea). Prerequisites: Biology 170 (Biodiversity and Evolution), Biology 205 (Cell Biology and Genetics II), and Biology 180 (Ecology). Offered occasionally. (4 credits)

 

486 SEMINAR IN NEUROPHARMACOLOGY (Same as Psychology 486)

This is an advanced course that will focus on the study of drugs used to alter the central nervous system. The course will begin with basic pharmacological principles and then concentrate on the various uses of drugs to alter brain neurochemistry. Topics for discussion will include the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia, depression, pain, anxiety and generally, the neurochemical basis of behavior. In addition to discussion of the use of drugs for clinical purposes, a significant amount of time will be spent on the use of "drugs of abuse" (e.g. cocaine, marijuana, LSD). While the focus of the course will be on the biochemical mechanisms of these drugs, an effort will be made to investigate and discuss the sociological ramifications of drug use. Three discussion/lecture hours per week. Prerequisites: Biology 356 (Cellular Molecular Neuroscience), Psychology 248, junior or senior standing or permission of the instructor. Not offered 2008-2009. (4 credits)

 

489 BIOLOGY SEMINAR

A weekly seminar series at which invited professionals speak on a wide range of biologically related topics. The seminar is intended to enhance students' knowledge in biology and also to demonstrate how a biological background can be applied to a wide variety of career paths. Majors are required to take two semesters. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing, with the added requirements that students cannot enroll prior to their fifth semester and they must enroll during at least one of their final two semesters. S/NC grading. Can be taken no more than twice for credit. Every semester. (1 credit)

 

614 INDEPENDENT PROJECT

This is an opportunity for students to do independent study or research on a biological topic. This may be done in the department under the direct supervision of a faculty member; it may be done at another college or university or similar institution under direct supervision; or in certain circumstances it may be done off campus with minimal direct supervision. Given the nature of independent projects, students need to demonstrate they have the necessary academic background, including appropriate coursework, in the area they are interested in pursuing before an independent will be approved. A special section will be offered for students conducting research during January of their senior year for 2 credits. This section is required for all students conducting an honors project in the department but may also be taken by students working on their senior presentation. Prerequisite: sponsorship by a biology faculty member. Every semester. (2–4 credits)

 

624 INTERNSHIP

This is an opportunity for students to work with professionals in the biological field outside of academia. Students will work with a faculty sponsor and their site supervisor to develop a set of learning goals, strategies to meet these goals, and methods of evaluation for the internship, including the nature of the final product. An internship is an excellent way for students to apply knowledge learned in the classroom and laboratory, to learn more biology, and to explore career options. The internship may be undertaken during a semester, during January, or during the summer and must encompass at least 35 hours of work by the student for each credit earned (140 hours for 4 credits). Prerequisite: sponsorship by a biology faculty member. S/NC grading only. Every semester. (1–4 credits)

 

644 HONORS INDEPENDENT

Independent research, writing, or other preparation leading to the culmination of the senior honors project. Every semester. (1–4 credits)

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