Courses I teach at Macalester

Biol357: Immunology (Offered Fall semesters)

This course is an introduction to vertebrate immunity. Its evolution, cellular and molecular mechanisms, health and disease functions and therapeutic manipulations are explored through approaches including lectures, clinical case studies, extensive reading of the primary literature, problem-solving and an intensive focus on scientific writing.  The course typically includes a civic engagement component where students work with health organizations and schools in the Twin Cities area.  The course laboratory uses guided exercises and independent projects to focus on current immunological techniques including flow cytometry, magnetic cell sorting and antibody assays.   Three hours of lectures and four to six hours of laboratory per week.  Prerequisites are a) junior or senior standing, and b) Chemistry 112, Genetics (Biol260) and Cell Biology (Biol265).   Fall semester (4 credits).

Biol265: Cell Biology (Offered every semester; I usually teach it once per year)

An introduction to the molecular and cellular processes of living organisms. Special attention is paid to problems faced by living cells in the acquisition of energy, growth and repair, reproduction and communication with other cells. Recent advances in biotechnology are also discussed. Prerequisites, Chemistry 112 or 115 or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry 112 or 115. Three lecture hours. Every semester. (4 credits)

Biol118: Introduction to Community & Global Health (Offered Spring semesters; I teach alternate years)

This course offers a broad introduction to the areas of public, global and community health using the framework of biological mechanisms and bases of current population-based issues in human health and disease.  Through a range of possible topic areas including current and emerging infectious diseases, environmental toxicology, chronic diseases, public health genomics, nutrition, maternal and child health, we will explore the complex interplay of biological, social, cultural and political factors in the ways in which our local and global communities access this fundamental human right. We will also explore different community health organizations in the Twin Cities area.  This course counts toward a minor in Biology but not toward a Biology major.  Prerequisites: none. Three lecture hours per week.  Offered Spring semesters. (4 credits).

Biol473: Research in Immunology (Offered alternate years)

This course involves collaborative research with a faculty member on a current problem in immunology.  Students participate in intensive reading of primary literature, journal-club style presentations, detailed experimental design and written and oral presentation of proposed research projects.  The laboratory component focuses on acquiring independent research skills, gaining technical expertise and carrying out novel research. Three hours of lectures and four to six hours of laboratory per week.  Prerequisites are a) Chemistry 112, Genetics (Biol260) and Cell Biology (Biol265) and b) permission of the instructor.   Spring semester (4 credits).

Biol494: Seminar in Immunology (Offered occasionally)

This seminar course focuses intensively on a particular topic of current interest within immunological research.  Topics include cancer immunology, transplantation biology, allergy, autoimmunity and vaccine development.  The course meets in a journal club format with weekly roundtable discussions of primary articles and secondary reviews in the area of study and emphasizes close and critical reading of experimental literature, written and oral presentation of critiques, scientific discussion and a final individual creative project.  Three discussion hours per week.  Prerequisites: Immunology (Biol357) and permission of instructor.  4 credits.