Biology
Department of Biology
Malcolm Hill, Chair
Professors de Sá, Hayden
Associate Professors Boland, Gindhart, Harrison, A. Hill, M. Hill, Kingsley, Radice, Runyen-Janecky, Smallwood, Stenger, Warrick
Assistant Professors Knight, Telang, Treonis
Directors of Biology Laboratories Boone, Lessem, Reiner
Director of Biological Imaging Marks
Director of Pre-Health Education Vaughan
Director of Molecular Biology Lab Zoghby
Manager of Biology Laboratories Farrell
Stockroom Manager Joseph
The Biology Major
Note: The grade point average of the coursework in biology and chemistry must be no less than 2.00 with no course grade below C- (1.7).
For the Bachelor of Science Degree
15 units, including
BIOL 199 Introduction to Biological Thinking or BIOL 190 Integrated Science/Math/Computer Science 1 with Laboratory
Conceptual Area 1: Genetics, Cellular and Molecular Biology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 201 Genetics
- BIOL 205 Cell Biology
Conceptual Area 2: Evolution, Diversity and Ecology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 207 Ecology
- BIOL 225 Evolution
Conceptual Area 3: Organismal Biology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 216 Botany
- BIOL 217 Integrative Physiology
- BIOL 229 Microbiology
Five additional units in biology, including at least four at the 300 level and four with a lab
MATH 212 Calculus II or MATH 232 Scientific Calculus II
CHEM 141 Introductory Chemistry or CHEM 191 Integrated Science/Math/Computer Science 3 with Laboratory
CHEM 205 Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 206 Organic Chemistry II
Quantitative-physical science, two units chosen from:
- CMSC 155 Introduction to Scientific Computing
- CMSC 221 Data Structures with Lab
- CMSC 222 Discrete Structures for Computing with Lab
- MATH 119 Statistics for Social and Life Sciences
- MATH 219 Introduction to the Design of Experiments
- PHYS 127 General Physics 1 or PHYS 131 General Physics with Calculus I
- PHYS 128 General Physics 2 or PHYS 132 General Physics with Calculus II or
- PHYS 133 Atomic and Sub-Atomic Physics or PHYS 134 Biological Physics
- Or completion of the Integrated Quantitative Science sequence
Students are expected to fulfill all prerequisites necessary for courses within the major/minor. Prerequisites do not count toward the major/minor unless otherwise noted.
For the Bachelor of Arts Degree
12 units, including
BIOL 199 Introduction to Biological Thinking
Conceptual Area 1: Genetics, Cellular and Molecular Biology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 201 Genetics
- BIOL 205 Cell Biology
Conceptual Area 2: Evolution, Diversity and Ecology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 207 Ecology
- BIOL 225 Evolution
Conceptual Area 3: Organismal Biology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 216 Botany
- BIOL 217 Integrative Physiology
- BIOL 229 Microbiology
Five additional units in biology, including at least four at the 300 level and four with a lab
CHEM 141 Introductory Chemistry
CHEM 205 Organic Chemistry I
CHEM 206 Organic Chemistry II
The Biology Minor
6 units, including
BIOL 199 Introduction to Biological Thinking or BIOL 190 Integrated Science/Math/Computer Science 1 with Laboratory
Conceptual Area 1: Genetics, Cellular and Molecular Biology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 201 Genetics
- BIOL 205 Cell Biology
Conceptual Area 2: Evolution, Diversity and Ecology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 207 Ecology
- BIOL 225 Evolution
Conceptual Area 3: Organismal Biology, one unit chosen from
- BIOL 216 Botany
- BIOL 217 Integrative Physiology
- BIOL 229 Microbiology
One additional unit with lab in biology, selected from approved 300-level courses
CHEM 141 Introductory Chemistry or CHEM 191 Integrated Science/Math/Computer Science 3 with Laboratory
Approved Courses for the Biology Major and Minor
All 200- and 300-level courses may be used to meet major or minor requirements with the following exceptions: any 100-level course, 260, 350, 370, 371, 387, 388, 389, 391, 392, and 395.
Honors Program
Students invited into the honors program may earn honors in biology by completing the following requirements:
- a minimum GPA of 3.30 in biology and overall;
- two units BIOL 395 Honors Research (taken for two semesters at 1 unit per semester);
- one unit of biology in addition to those already required for the major. A grade of B or above in this course would allow it to count towards the honors degree;
- BIOL 391 Honors Seminar;
- BIOL 392 Honors Seminar II; and
- honors thesis written under the supervision of a research advisor and presented to the department in an oral presentation.
Related Fields
Biochemistry and molecular biology program
Interdisciplinary concentration in neuroscience for biology or psychology majors
Marine and Ecosystem Studies
Opportunities are available to study marine biology or marine and other ecosystems through cooperative agreements with the Duke University Marine Sciences Laboratory (DUML), Beaufort, N.C., and the Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Mass., Semester in Environmental Science (MBL-SES). Work taken in the program may be included in the student's University of Richmond curriculum only with the prior approval and under the direction of the Department of Biology. Students interested in this option are encouraged to apply to the department for further information.
Courses
BIOL
100 Biology of Plants
Holistic overview of plant biology including elements of cell biology, biochemistry, biodiversity, morphology, growth and development, physiology, and ecology. Emphasizes direct interaction with live plants in the laboratory, field, and greenhouse integrated with understanding of cellular structures and processes and practice of scientific method. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
101 Principles of Evolution
Examines fundamentals of the theory of evolution as an example of how science works and progresses. Consists of three modules. The first module will focus on importance of genetic variation and principles of the evolutionary theory; the second will focus on illustrating how evolutionary theory and evolutionary tree serve as guides in biological research; and the third will focus on principles of human evolution. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
102 Exploring Human Biology
Examination of human biology from perspective of cellular processes, genetics, structure and function of organ systems, and evolution. Application of the scientific method in the laboratory. Will not serve as basis of further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
103 Biology in Popular Culture
Current topics in contemporary biology will be used to introduce students to genetic engineering, stem cells, and the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. These issues and the impact of this technology will be explored examining their various roles in the medical community and popular culture. Laboratory investigations will emphasize the scientific method allowing for student hypothesis-driven experimentation. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
104 Biology of Human Development
Focuses on early embryonic development, including fertilization, stem cell formation, organ development, and sex determination. Emphasis on understanding biological principles and social implications of manipulating human development. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
106 Microbiology: Unseen Life
Introduction to basic concepts needed to understand microorganisms and their impact on our world. Questions addressed include: What is microbial diversity? How do microbes grow? How can we control microbial growth? How can we harness the power of microbial genetics? How do microbes help in food production? What roles do microbes play in the biosphere? How do microbes interact with the human body? Laboratory investigations will utilize the scientific method to allow students to gain insight as to how scientific experiments are performed. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
107 Human Genetics
Introduction to basic concepts in human genetics and how advances in the field impact health care, biotechnology, public policy, and the law. Topics such as the Human Genome Project, gene therapy, and prenatal testing for genetic disorders will be discussed. Students will gain working knowledge of how scientists think and how they approach research problems. Designed for students with little or no background in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
108 Environmental Biology
Basic ecological principles and selected topics in environmental science, including worldwide impact of growing human population, patterns of energy consumption, and issues of water quality, water management, land use, and biological resources. Application of the scientific method will be incorporated in laboratory component. Will not serve as basis of further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): High school biology.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
109 Introduction to Ecology
Introduction to causes and consequences of ecological patterns at all scales: individuals, species, communities, and ecosystems. Terrestrial, aquatic, and marine systems are studied, as well as theories and the mathematical and graphical models used to understand them. Some labs require work outside. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
110 Emerging Infectious Diseases
Examination of microbes responsible for emerging infectious diseases (and perspective of diseases with significant impact on history) will be used to introduce biological principles evaluating the structure/function of these microbes as well as discussing the role of genetics. The impact of these events as well as the public policy response will be explored. Examples of microbes to be studied include HIV, Ebola, Escherichai coli, Treponema palladium, and Staphylococcus aureus. The scientific method of investigations will be an integral part of the laboratory. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
111 Marine Biology of the Chesapeake Bay
Introduction to the ecology and biological diversity of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed. Environmental issues facing the bay will be explored through direct data collection, observation, and hands-on activities. This is a service-learning course and students will join local 5th-grade classrooms to help teach elementary students about the bay. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
118 Introduction to Biotechnology
Biotechnology is the harnessing of biological processes for commercial purposes. We interact with biotechnology products every day, yet many people do not understand what biotechnology is, what it can and cannot do, and why the ethical use of biotechnology is important. Includes topics such as recombinant DNA technology, fermentation, protein engineering, biosensors, and natural products. Students will learn about biotechnology companies, how they work, and the implications of biotechnology in everyday life. Will not serve as basis for further work in science nor meet entrance requirements for any health profession. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
155 Topics in Contemporary Biology: Summer Scholars
Special topics. Available to high-school students in Summer Scholars program only.
Prerequisite(s): Participation in Summer Scholars program.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
190 Integrated Science/Math/Computer Science 1 with Laboratory
One of two courses taught fall semester as part of Integrated Quantitative Science program. Will integrate topics from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math and Computer Science and will include instructors from all five disciplines. Each semester of the course will be organized around a guiding principle that integrates several concepts. Along with co-requisite, will include ten hours for lecture and lab combination.
Prerequisite(s): High school calculus. Co-requisite: Math 190.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
199 Introduction to Biological Thinking
An introduction to how biologists pose questions, design experiments, analyze data, evaluate evidence, and communicate scientific information. Individual sections will have different topics and formats, but all sections will involve intensive student-directed investigation and include a laboratory component. Required for prospective biology majors. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
201 Genetics
Introductory course addressing theory and use of genetics in the biological sciences. Topics include 1) gene organization and transmission through generations, including Mendelian inheritance, linkage, and mapping; 2) gene function at the molecular level, including physical nature of DNA, transcription, translation, and regulation of gene expression; and 3) genetic analysis of biological processes such as development. Emphasis is on modern genetic techniques and applications. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199 or permission of instructor, and Chemistry 141. Chemistry 141 may be taken concurrently.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
205 Cell Biology
Introductory course addressing cell structure and function at the molecular level. Major topics include 1) the chemical composition of cells, including the structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids; 2) the organization of cells, including organelles and their functions; 3) cellular metabolism, including respiration, fermentation, and photosynthesis; 4) cell-cell interactions and communication, including signaling in nerve and muscle; 5) mitosis, the cell cycle, and cell death. Emphasis on modern cellular and molecular techniques and applications. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199 or permission of instructor, and Chemistry 141. Chemistry 141 may be taken concurrently.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
207 Ecology
Examines forces that shape the patterns of species interactions, abundance and distribution. Three lecture and three laboratory hours a week plus overnight field trips.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199, Environmental Studies 201, or permission of instructor, and Chemistry 141. Chemistry 141 may be taken concurrently.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
216 Botany
Diversity, structure, growth, physiology, and reproduction of photosynthetic organisms. Three lecture and three laboratory hours a week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199 or permission of instructor, and Chemistry 141. Chemistry 141 may be taken concurrently.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
217 Integrative Physiology
Examines the integration of physiological processes in plants and animals, from the level of the genes, cells, organs, systems, whole organisms, and environment. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199 or permission of instructor, and Chemistry 141. Chemistry 141 may be taken concurrently.
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
225 Evolution
Introduction to biological evolution, including history of field and mechanisms of evolution that result in biological diversification, speciation, extinction, and the fossil record. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199 or permission of instructor, and Chemistry 141. Chemistry 141 may be taken concurrently.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
229 Microbiology
Microorganisms are everywhere and an integral part of our world. This course introduces a broad range of topics in the field, including microbial cell structure and function, microbial growth and nutrition, unique aspects of microbial metabolism, viruses, microbial ecology, and microbial pathogenesis. The contributions of microbes to the world, both positive and negative, will be highlighted throughout the course. Laboratory investigations will allow students to explore microbiological-based questions. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199 or permission of instructor, and Chemistry 141. Chemistry 141 may be taken concurrently.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
250 Earth Systems and Physical Geography
(See Geography 250; same as Environmental Studies 250.)
General Education Requirement: (FSNB)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
260 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
(See Geography 260; same as Environmental Studies 260.)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
303 Plant Morphology
Structure, life histories, and phylogeny of major divisions of algae, fungi, and terrestrial plants. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201, 205, 207, 216, 217, 225, or 229 or permission of instructor.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
305 Plant Anatomy
Microscopic structure of vascular plants with emphasis on function, development, and evolution. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201, 205, 207, 216, 217, 225, or 229 or permission of instructor.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
306 Systematic Botany
Identification and classification of vascular plants; emphasis on local flora, principles of systematics. Two lecture and four laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201, 205, 207, 216, 217, 225, or 229 or permission of instructor.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
307 Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology
Analysis of molecular mechanisms by which cells interact with each other and the environment. Topics include signal transduction, cell cycle regulation, and molecular models of cancer and microbial pathogenesis. Three lecture hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
308 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
Comparative anatomy and biology of several systems of organs of representative vertebrates in an evolutionary context. Two lecture and four laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
309 Invertebrate Zoology
Comprehensive study of systematics, morphology, physiology, development, behavior, and ecology of invertebrates, the most abundant animals on the planet. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week plus field trips.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
311 Microanatomy
Microscopic structures and functions of vertebrate tissues and organs. Laboratory emphasizes quantitative light and electron microscopy and computer-assisted image analysis. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205 and 216 or 217.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
312 Developmental Biology
Development of animals, concentrating on fertilization and early embryonic development. Emphasizes mechanisms of cell differentiation and pattern formation. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201 and 205.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
313 Microbial Pathogenesis
Exploration of the general mechanisms used by pathogens to cause disease. Topics include entry into the host, attachment to and invasion of host cells, cell and tissue damage, and microbial elimination/dissemination, as well as the techniques used to study these processes. Students will examine these topics in detail in context of several specific pathogens to more thoroughly appreciate the clinical disease that results from infection. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205 or 229.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
314 Molecular Genetics
Examination of experimental underpinnings of knowledge about gene transmission and function through critical analysis of key papers. Lab projects focus on developing skill in posing problems that can be addressed experimentally. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
316 Biological Imaging
Laboratory based course in the theory and practice of techniques used to study biological structures. Combines instruction in specimen preparation, light and electron microscopy, and digital image analysis. Will be useful to students who plan to do independent research in cell, molecular, or organismal biology.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199 or 190
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
325 Molecular Evolution
Introduction to molecular evolution with focus on genome structure, mutation selection and random genetic drift at molecular level. Evolution by gene duplication, exon shuffling and transposition. Lab focuses on cloning and recombinant DNA techniques. Strong lab component, two lecture and four laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
326 Biochemistry
(See Chemistry 326.)
Prerequisite(s): Chemistry 206.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
328 Vertebrate Zoology
Comprehensive survey of vertebrate classes emphasizing phylogenetic theory, natural history, behavior, and ecology. Two lecture and four laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
332 Tropical Marine Biology
Introduction to marine biology and other oceanographic disciplines using tropical marine habitats as specific examples. Three lecture hours per week and laboratory portion composed of field trips and exercises including spring break field experience in Caribbean (extra fee required).
Prerequisite(s): Biology 207 or 225.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
333 Microbial Ecology
Community dynamics play an important role in organismal interactions. Examines the role of microorganisms in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine habitats, as well as animal-plant systems. The laboratory will emphasize molecular techniques used to study microorganisms in situ and includes independent research project. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201, 205, 207, 216, 217, 225, or 229.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
334 Oceanography
Integrated introduction to biological, geological, chemical, and physical oceanography. Multidisciplinary approach to ocean processes. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week, plus field trips.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 207.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
338 Comparative Animal Physiology
Introduction to major characteristics of animal function at level of whole organism and component structures and organ systems. Emphasis on physiological function and processes related to survival in natural environment. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201 or 205 and 217.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
339 Physiology of Marine Organisms
Physiological adaptations, including osmoregulation, respiration, diving physiology, and temperature regulation of organisms to marine environments, such as estuaries, the open ocean, and deep sea. Three lecture hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 217.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
340 Introduction to Immunology
Overview of immunology. Current theories and their explanation of pertinent contemporary issues included. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
341 Animal Physiological Ecology
Introduction to animal physiological adaptation to the natural environment. Emphasis will be on physiological responses of animals to both biotic and abiotic factors and interaction with ecology and population dynamics of species. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 217.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
343 Neurobiology
Broad course focusing on study of neurons and neuronal systems. Topics to be explored include the neuron and its mechanisms for the transmission of signals, neuronal organization, sensory perception, integration, behavioral output, development, and basic neurogenetics. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205 or 217.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
344 Behavioral Ecology
Introduction to analysis of behavior of organisms, including humans, by study of how behavior affects survival and reproduction. Behaviors studied include foraging, aggression, cooperation, and reproduction. Verbal, graphical, and mathematical models to describe and predict behavior are studied and tested. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week; may include overnight field trips.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 207 or 225.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
345 Cellular Neurophysiology
The study of how nerve cells generate electrical excitability and use changes in excitability to communicate information in the nervous system. The basic principles of how ion channels and receptors operate will be studied and applied to their physiological function in nerve cells including networks of nerve cells and nerve-muscle communication. The key principles of channel and receptor function will be determined by students in laboratory exercises using contemporary electrophysiological instrumentation. Advanced topics such as the modulation of channel and receptor function, disease-causing mutations, and the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity will also be studied. The course culminates in student-led investigations of a special topic, designed and completed by research teams. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
346 Medical Entomology
Introduces students to biology of medically important arthropods, life cycles of transmitted pathogens, disease symptoms and epidemiology. Discusses the economic and social impact of these arthropods and strategies for their control; covers unorthodox points of intersection between entomology and medical sciences, including psychiatry, surgery and forensic medicine.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 205 and 217.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
350 Undergraduate Research
Independent research conducted with faculty supervision. May be repeated eight times for credit. Graded pass/fail.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Unit(s): .5
BIOL
351 Special Topics
Special course areas covered when sufficient interest exists. Considers subject matter not covered in other biology courses.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199.
Unit(s): .5-1
BIOL
352 Evolutionary Developmental Biology
Study of how evolution occurs through inherited changes during the embryonic development of organisms. The genetic basis of animal diversity will be studied by examining conserved molecular, cellular, and developmental processes. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
354 Biological Basis of Neurodegenerative Diseases with Laboratory
Examines the biological mechanisms that underlie human neurodegenerative diseases. Also examines the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms of diseases like Alzheimer, Huntington, and Parkinson diseases by discovering how normal biological processes fail and lead to neuronal death. Also examines the biological basis of potential cures.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201 or 205
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
360 Environmental Remote Sensing
(See Environmental Studies 360.)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
370 Women in Science
Critical analysis of involvement of women in science, including the history of participation of women in science; trends and barriers to full participation in science, including real and perceived differences in the biology of the scientist; objectivity/subjectivity in science; and feminist analyses of science. Continuing dialogue on how science is done and impact that feminist scholarship has had on this dialogue. Class research project will be conducted. Three lecture hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Students must have fulfilled their Fields of Study-Natural Science requirement or have permission from the instructor.
General Education Requirement: (FSSA)
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
380 Philosophical Issues in Evolutionary Biology
Philosophical problems within evolutionary biology and its influence on society. Issues studied include how natural selection works, evolution and human behaviors, and the influence of evolutionary theory on our ethical and legal codes. Lecture/seminar format, with student presentations and term paper. Three lecture hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 207 or 225.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
383 Tropical Biology and Conservation
Introduction to principles of tropical biology and conservation, including historical and economic components. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 199.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
384 Eukaryotic Genetics
Principles underlying gene expression in higher eukaryotes, examined through selected genetic pathologies. The course seeks to increase students' facility in making creative use of the primary scientific literature. Three lecture hours per week.
Prerequisite(s): Biology 201.
Unit(s): 1
BIOL
387 Biology Seminar
Regular attendance in program seminars and written analysis of presentations. May be repeated for credit, normally taken in junior year. Meets one hour per week.
Prerequisite(s): Instructor approval
Unit(s): .25
BIOL
388 Individual Internship
Supervised independent work under field conditions. Designed to give student applied experience in biological specialty. No more than 1.5 units of internship in any one department and 3.5 units of internship overall may be counted toward required degree units.
Prerequisite(s): Biology, biochemistry and molecular biology, or environmental studies major at junior or senior rank.
Unit(s): .5
BIOL
389 Independent Study
An in-depth study of biological topics not included in other courses. Students work independently, but under the supervision of a faculty member. Must be approved by department chair and instructor.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Unit(s): .25-1
BIOL
391 Honors Seminar I
Special topics for junior and senior students with emphasis on topics presented in the Biology Seminar Series. One lecture hour per week.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Unit(s): .25
BIOL
392 Honors Seminar II
Special topics for junior and senior honors candidates. One lecture hour per week.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Unit(s): .25
BIOL
395 Honors Research
Laboratory or field-centered independent study. May be taken twice for credit. Will be graded on a pass/fail basis.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.
Unit(s): 1
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