Molecular & Integrative Biology Degree

BIOL 418. Systems Biology. 3 Credits.

Living organisms are complex systems composed of numerous interacting parts. Systems biology seeks to understand biological phenomena by integrating the coordinated action of many components of a system using a multidisciplinary approach. This class introduces basic concepts and methods in systems biology with an emphasis on biological networks, gene regulation, intracellular signaling, development and pattern formation, metabolism, and the analysis of high-throughput "omics" data. Computer simulations are used heavily to gain deeper insight into system function. Counts as an upper-division laboratory course. Prerequisite: BIOL 315, BIOL 341, and MATH 103. F, even years.

BIOL 378. Developmental Biology. 3 Credits.

An overview of general stages and mechanisms of development, experimental approaches used to study developmental processes, and genetic and environmental influences that govern development. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, BIOL 151L, BIOL 315 and BIOL 341. F.

BIOL 332. General Ecology. 3 Credits.

An introduction to ecology. Covers the relationship of individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems to their biotic and abiotic environments. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, and BIOL 151L or an equivalent approved by the department. F.

BIOL 341. Cell Biology. 3 Credits.

Description of processes common to life at the cellular level including: biochemical and structural organization, membrane function, motility, signal transduction, growth, division and genetic regulation of the cell. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, BIOL 151L. Prerequisite or Corequisite: CHEM 122. S.

BIOL 410. Molecular Biology Techniques. 4 Credits.

Applications of DNA and RNA analysis and recombinant DNA technologies, emphasizing practical experience in the laboratory. This class will meet twice a week for 50 minutes in the classroom, and students will be expected to work approximately 4-6 hours a week in the lab during open lab times. Counts as an upper-division laboratory course. Prerequisite: BIOL 315 is recommended. S.

BIOL 415. Genomics. 4 Credits.

Genomics describes the determination of the complete nucleotide sequence of an organism and subsequent analyses to decode the structural and functional information of all genes and regulatory sequences in the genome. This four-credit course will consist of lectures, computer lab sessions, in-class exercises, take-home assignments, student presentations, and discussion of research articles. Counts as an upper-division laboratory course. Prerequisite: BIOL 150, BIOL 150L, BIOL 151, BIOL 151L and BIOL 315. S.