An in-depth study on protein biochemistry, with a focus on the relationship between protein structure and its corresponding function on a molecular and organismal scale. This course will also cover recent developments in protein research, including the use of proteomics in systems biology and medicine, particularly drug development.

A lecture course reviewing a wide range of topics related to cancer including the biology and immunology of tumor cells, chemical and viral carcinogenesis, oncogenes, genetic predisposition to cancer, and treatment strategies.

An overview of the interdisciplinary science of genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics which applies the tools of information technology (computer hardware and software) to analyze biological data such as gene or protein sequences. This course examines the theory of bioinformatics as well as its practical application to biological problems using approaches such as BLAST searches, phylogenetics, and protein structure function analysis.

A study of the development of the nervous system in humans and invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms. Topics covered include neurogenesis, the development and cell biology of neurons and glia, developmental genetics, and nervous system defects arising from abnormal development.

This course provides a basic understanding of some of the current topics in modern virology including the structure, classification, and replication of viruses, virus-cell interactions, diagnostic and research applications in virology, and the molecular biology of several important viruses causing disease in humans and animals. Special emphasis is given to viral pathogenesis making this course suitable for those pursuing careers in medicine or related fields.

This course will focus on the human microbiome and the complex symbiotic relationships, exploring the impacts of those host-microbe interactions on physical and mental health. The course will also examine the current research tools and emerging applications within the field.

A laboratory course emphasizing advanced techniques in cell biology, molecular biology, and developmental genetics. Topics include functional genomics, mobile genetic elements, somatic clonal analysis, molecular cloning, and epifluorescence/ confocal microscopy. This course is designed for students who are interested in a career in the life sciences and who wish to familiarize themselves with a number of applied laboratory techniques.

In this course, students research a chosen area of biology and provide a final written report. Students present research findings in a seminar. This course option allows students with larger projects to gain extra credit.

Research in a chosen area of biology or environmental studies with a final written report. Presentation of research findings will also be made by the student in a poster session.

Students will be required to choose a topic for their senior thesis (BIOL 409-410/GENV 409- 410) in consultation with an instructor. Selected readings and references pertinent to the topic will be assigned. A final written report will be presented consisting of a detailed thesis proposal and a review of the literature.