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Biological Sciences
Faculty
*Year of initial appointment at Binghamton
Andrus, Richard E., Associate Professor, PhD, 1974, State University of
New York College of Forestry at Syracuse: Taxonomy, ecology, biogeography
of bryophytes. (1973)*
Baust, John G., Professor, PhD, 1970, Institute of Arctic Biology, University
of Alaska: Physiological mechanisms of adaptation to low temperatures and
survival at environmental extremes, mechanisms of cryopreservation of mammalian
tissues. (1987)
Bonamo, Patricia M., Professor, PhD, 1966, Cornell University: Paleobotany,
plant morphology, origin and evolution of the land flora. (1967)
Christian, John J., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1939, Princeton University:
Population endocrinology and pathology. (1970)
Clark, Anne Barrett, Assistant Professor, PhD, 1975, University of Chicago:
Evolutionary biology and behavior. (1989)
Gal, Susannah, Assistant Professor, PhD, 1986, Johns Hopkins University:
Molecular biology of plants. (1994)
Haber, Alan H., Professor, PhD, 1956, University of Wisconsin: Radiation
biology. (1973)
Horwath, Kathleen L., Associate Professor, PhD, 1982, University of Notre
Dame: Comparative and environmental biochemistry, cell and molecular biology,
circadian and insect physiology. (1988)
Landry, Stuart O., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1954, University of California
at Berkeley: Functional anatomy, musculo-skeletal system of mammals; rodent
taxonomy. (1963)
Lazaroff, Norman, Associate Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1961, Yale University:
General and applied microbiology, autotrophic and photophysiology. (1966)
Madison, Dale M., Associate Professor, PhD, 1971, University of Maryland:
Mammalian behavior and ecology. (1977)
McGee, Dennis W., Assistant Professor, PhD, 1987, Texas A&M University:
Cellular Immunology. (1993)
Michael, Sandra D., Professor and Department Chair, PhD, 1970, University
of California at Davis: Endocrinology of female reproduction and behavior,
thymus gland involvement in ovarian aging and tumorigenesis. (1974)
Mueller, August P., Associate Professor, PhD, 1960, University of Wisconsin:
Serology, genetics. (1962)
Murrish, David E., Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies,
PhD, 1968, University of Montana: Ecological physiology, avian metabolic
and respiratory physiology. (1977)
Parker, Matthew, Associate Professor, PhD, 1983, Cornell University: Plant
population biology, co-evolution of plants and pathogens, population dynamics
of plant-herbivore interactions. (1985)
Posner, Herbert B., Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies,
PhD, 1962, Yale University: Physiology of plant growth and development.
(1964)
Pueschel, Curt, Associate Professor, PhD, 1978, Cornell University: Ultrastructure
and systematics of the algae. (1981)
Reddy, Kalluru J., Assistant Professor, PhD, 1984, University of Miami:
Molecular biology of photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation and gene regulation.
(1990)
Schumacher, George J., Professor Emeritus, PhD, 1953, Cornell University:
Ecology, economics, distribution, taxonomy, and morphology of fresh- water
algae. (1953)
Shepherd, Julian, Associate Professor, PhD, 1972, Harvard University: Developmental
biology, insect physiology, sperm activation. (1975)
Stamp, Nancy E., Professor, PhD, 1980, University of Maryland: Insect/plant
interactions, animal ecology. (1985)
Stein, William, Associate Professor, PhD, 1980, University of Michigan:
Vascular Plant Evolution. (1988)
Tan-Wilson, Anna L., Professor, PhD, 1973, State University of New York
at Buffalo: Plant biochemistry, storage protein and trypsin inhibitor metabolism
during seed development and germination. (1976)
Titus, John E., Associate Professor, PhD, 1977, University of Wisconsin:
Physiological plant ecology. (1977)
Van Buskirk, Robert, Associate Professor, PhD, 1983, Harvard University:
Protein biochemistry, plant biochemistry. (1986)
Wilcox, R. Stimson, Associate Professor, PhD, 1969, University of Michigan:
Behavioral ecology, communication systems. (1976)
Wilson, David S., Professor, PhD, 1975, Michigan State University: Evolutionary
and theoretical ecology. (1988)
Wilson, Karl A., Professor and Director of the Biochemistry Program, PhD,
1973, State University of New York at Buffalo: Primary structure of enzymes
and biochemical evolution. (1976)
Adjunct Faculty
Button, Elizabeth E., Adjunct Lecturer, PhD, 1984, Binghamton University:
Biological sciences. (1984)
Ferrari, George P., Adjunct Professor, MS, 1960, St. John's University:
Microbiology. (1991)
Freeh, Steven Michael, Adjunct Assistant Professor, PhD, 1984, Binghamton
University: Biological sciences. (1994)
French, Alan R., Adjunct Assistant Professor, PhD, 1975, University of California
at Los Angeles: Physiological ecology, mammalian hibernation: energetics,
daily and annual rhythms, physiological control of body temperature. (1985)
Richardson, John B., Adjunct Professor, PhD, 1960, Sheffield University,
England: Paleontology. (1987)
Roe, Eunice M., Assistant Professor (CSL), PhD, 1989, Univesity of Pittsburgh:
Communication. (1994)
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Undergraduate
Programs
The BiologicaI Sciences Department offers BA and BS degrees in biological
sciences, both of which are liberal arts degrees and preparatory degrees
for graduate study and professional employment. A BS degree offers a greater
concentration in biology and the opportunity for special concentration in
a subdiscipline of biology. Students wishing to concentrate in biochemical
sciences and environmental studies may wish to choose the degree programs
offered under those rubrics.
Students are advised to declare their major in biological sciences by the
end of their sophomore year. A year of physics and a year of calculus are
considered beneficial or prerequisite to postgraduate study in most of the
biology- related fields.
The department also offers a minor.
Requirements for BA
and BS Degree Programs
1. For either degree, BIOL 113, 114, and 115.
2. For either degree, CHEM 107-108 or 111, and CHEM 231, 332, and 335. (Students
considering CHEM 111 instead of CHEM 107-108 should consult with an advisor
in the biology department or with the pre-health advisor, as appropriate.)
3. For the BA degree, a minimum of 20 credits and for the BS degree, a minimum
of 28 credits in courses numbered 200 or above (except BIOL 224, 251 and
252) in the biological sciences. Advanced students may wish to consider
500-level courses (consent of instructor required). Enrollment in independent
work and the honors program is encouraged for qualified students. Four credits
of independent work (BIOL 496 or 497) may replace any one advanced biological
sciences course in the BA requirements, and eight credits of independent
work may replace two advanced biology courses in the BS degree requirements.
Credit for BIOL 496 or 497 is not given for independent work in other departments.
Credit for BIOL 496 or 497 for work done at other institutions is given
only if prior permission is obtained from the departmental undergraduate
committee. The student's attention is called to the existence of courses
taught at field stations during the summer. Credit toward the BA and BS
degrees for such courses will be accepted if approved in advance by the
undergraduate committee.
4. Among the required biology courses numbered 200 or above, at least three
for a BA, or four for a BS degree, must include at least one weekly laboratory
session. Courses fulfilling the laboratory requirement are identified by
the designation (L) following their titles. Note that any half-course (2-credit
course) that includes at least one weekly Iaboratory session may be counted
as fulfilling this requirement. BIOL 497 for at least two credits may also
be counted.
5. For the BA, three courses (12 credits) and for the BS, four courses (16
credits) from the following list of cognate sciences:
CHEM 200-489, except 231, 332, 335, 391, 397
GEOL 111-489
MATH 147, 221-489, except 391
PHYS 121-489, except 391
PSYC 220, 227, 243, 306, 344, 353, 356, 358, 362.
6. Courses in biological sciences other than BIOL 496 and BIOL 497 may not
be taken on the pass/fail grading option for credit toward either the BA
or BS degree. A student must have approval of the faculty supervisor to
take BIOL 496 or BIOL 497 on the pass/fail option.
7. A minimum of four courses (16 credits) in the biological sciences must
be taken in Harpur College in order to qualify for either the BA or BS degree.
A sample schedule for a BA in Biology follows.
Year Fall Spring
Freshman BIOL 114 or 113 BIOL 113 or 114
CHEM 107 CHEM 108
Sophomore CHEM 231 BIOL course
MATH 221 CHEM 332
MATH 222
Junior BIOL course BIOL course
PHYS 131 (or 121) PHYS 132
(or 122)
CHEM 235
(2 credits)
Senior BIOL course BIOL course
Note: BIOL 115 should be taken in the second or third semester
Honors Program
Students in this program are required to do a year-long research project
under the guidance of a departmental faculty member. To be accepted into
the program, a student must have junior standing, at least a 3.0 GPA overall
and 3.3 GPA in biology courses, the consent of a faculty supervisor, and
the approval of the undergraduate committee. The aforementioned GPAs must
be maintained during the honors research. Students doing honors research
should register for BIOL 497.
The student's work, summarized and interpreted in a thesis, must be submitted
for approval to a thesis committee consisting of the supervising professor
and two other faculty members. The satisfactory completion of the project
and thesis earns the recognition at graduation of Distinguished Independent
Work in Biology.
Formal application for the honors program must be made no later than the
last day of the registration period at the beginning of the senior year.
The thesis committee must be set up no later than the add deadline in the
fall semester of the senior year. Applications and additional details of
the program are available in the department office.
Biological Sciences Minor
Requirements for the minor are:
1. Two (8 credits) introductory level courses in biology (courses numbered
in the 100s).
2. Four courses (16 credits) of biology numbered 200 or above. At least
two of these courses must be numbered 300 or above. The required 16 credits
must include two courses with laboratory or field work, identified by the
designation (L).
Note: Many advanced biology courses require the entire basic freshman sequence:
BIOL 113, 114, and 115.
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Course Offerings/
Undergraduate
NOTE: Unless otherwise noted, all undergraduate courses carry 4 credits
and are offered every year.
BIOL 103. UNITY OF LIFE
Principles of cell biology and genetics, with emphasis on problems society
faces. Main themes are cellular structure, energy and chemical transformations
(metabolism), information transfer (genetics), chance (probability), evolution,
and the history and politics of science. Three 1-hour lectures and one 1-hour
discussion per week. Does not satisfy any requirement for the major in biological
sciences or biochemistry. No prerequisites.
BIOL 104. DIVERSITY OF LIFE
A survey of the diversity of plants, animals, and other organisms. Intended
for nonmajors and aimed at developing an appreciation for the beauty and
intricacy of organisms and their relationships. Problems of preservation
of critical ecosystems such as tropical rain forests and coral reefs, and
the impact of extinction of organisms and ecosystems, will be addressed
from scientific and humanistic points-of-view. Certain especially threatened
animals, e.g. whales and primates, will receive special attention. Three
hours of lecture and one 1 1/2 hour discussion section/field trip per week.
No prerequisites.
BIOL 113. INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY: CELL AND MOLECULAR/every semester
Survey of cell and molecular biology: origins and evolution of cells; prokaryotes
and eukaryotes; ultrastructure; energetics; metabolism; membranes; motility;
endoplasmic reticulum; cell cycle, mitosis, meiosis; Mendelian genetics;
molecular genetics. Lecture and discussion. Prerequisite: high school chemistry.
BIOL 113 and 114 may be taken in either order.
BIOL 114. INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY: ORGANISMS AND POPULATIONS/every semester
Survey of organismal and population biology; history of life; structure
and physiology of plants and animals; homeostasis, integration, growth,
ecology; animal behavior; evolution. Lecture and discussion . Prerequisite:
high school chemistry. BIOL 113 and 114 may be taken in either order.
BIOL 115. INTRODUCTORY BIOLOGY LABORATORY /every semester, 2 credits
Laboratory and field experiments covering molecular, cellular, organismal,
and population biology. Emphasis on scientific method, independent investigation,
report writing and techniques. Prerequisites or corequisites: BIOL 113 and
114.
BIOL 180. FRESHMAN SEMINAR/2 credits
Discussion of selected topics. Does not satisfy any requirement for the
major.
BIOL 215. CELL BIOLOGY LABORATORY (L)/2 credits
Laboratory course designed to introduce students to techniques and approaches
in cell biology. Each set of exercises teaching basic procedures will be
followed by short research investigation. Prerequisite: BIOL 115; Corequisite:
CHEM 231.
BIOL 224. BASIC MICROBIOLOGY FOR NON-MAJORS
Fundamentals of microbiology, stressing clinical relevance. Required of
students in the Decker School of Nursing. Not for credit toward degrees
in the biological sciences. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: CHEM 102
or equivalent.
BIOL 240. BOTANY (L)
lnterrelationships and evolution of major plant groups at organismic level.
Lecture and laboratory.
BIOL 241. FLORA (L) /every semester, 2 credits
Examination of local native and introduced species of higher plants via
discussion and field work. An appreciation of the taxonomy, ecology, and
economics of those plants. Discussion and field trips (two hours) twice
a week during half of semester. Prerequisite: BIOL 114 or 240, or consent
of instructor.
BIOL 250. ZOOLOGY (L)
Diversity in animal kingdom; representatives of major animal phyla. Basic
understanding and appreciation of animals through consideration of their
ecology, evolution, behavior, and physiology. Laboratories acquaint students
with structure of selected representative types, provide additional knowledge
of functioning of animal body. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL
114.
BIOL 251. HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I
First part of one-year course covering normal human structure and function.
Topics include physical-chemical basis of life processes, integrative function
of the nervous system, anatomical and physiological interaction of the skeletal-muscular
systems, and basic endocrinology. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite:
BIOL 113. Prerequisites or corequisites: CHEM 101-102 or 107-108. Does not
satisfy the requirements for the major in biological sciences.
BIOL 252. HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II
Second part of one-year course covering normal human structure and function.
Topics include circulatory dynamics, respiration, digestion, metabolism,
temperature regulation, salt and water balance, reproduction, and development.
Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 251. Does not satisfy the requirements
for the major in biological sciences.
BIOL 260. PHYSIOLOGICAL ECOLOGY OF ANIMALS
The biological, physical, and chemical nature of various environments and
the physiological, morphological, and behavioral adaptations of animals
which occupy them. Lecture and discussion. Prerequisite: BIOL 114.
BIOL 266 (also GEOL 266). PALEOBIOLOGY (L)
Characteristics of fossils and of biological and geological systems that
produced them. Development, form, mode of life, chronology of major fossil
plant and animal groups; evolution and adaptation. Techniques in paleobiology.
Interpretation of functional morphology and ancient environments. Laboratory
and field studies. Prerequisite: GEOL 111, 112, or 113, or BIOL 114.
BIOL 301. (also BCHM 301) BIOCHEMISTRY: MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Structure and function of nucleic acids. Mechanism and regulation of DNA
replication, transcription, and protein synthesis in prokaryotic and eukaryotic
cells. Viral replication, recombinant DNA techniques. Lecture and discussion.
Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114, 115, CHEM 111 (or 107 or 108), 231. Corequisite:
CHEM 332.
BIOL 302. (also BCHM 302). BIOCHEMISTRY: METABOLIC ASPECTS
Cellular constituents, their role in life process. Molecular logic, water,
structure, and function of proteins/enzymes, vitamins, hormones, other biomolecules.
Metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, nitrogenous compounds. Energetic and
regulatory consideration of metabolism. Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 115, CHEM
111 (or 107 and 108), 231, and CHEM 332.
BIOL 303. (also BCHM 303). BIOCHEMISTRY: MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LABORATORY (L)/
2 credits
Molecular biology laboratory techniques: sterile technique and manipulation
of microorganism, preparation of DNA libraries, subcloning DNA into vectors,
detection of specific DNA and RNA sequences with nucleic acid and immunochemical
probes, and sequencing of DNA. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite or corequisite:
BIOL 301 or BCHM 301.
BIOL 304 (also BCHM 304). BIOCHEMISTRY LABORATORY (L)/2 credits
Biochemistry laboratory techniques: isolation and purification of macromolecules,
characterization of enzymes, chromatography, other methods of analysis.
Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 302 or BCHM 302.
BIOL 310. CELLULAR ULTRASTRUCTURE
Structural approach to the organization and functioning of animal, plant,
and microbial cells, emphasizing results from electron microscopy. Among
the topics discussed in detail are chromosome structure, the cytoskeleton,
the photosynthetic apparatus, origin and evolution of the eukaryotic cell.
The discussion period is devoted to developing skills in interpreting electron
micrographs. Lecture and discussion. Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114, and 115.
BIOL 311. PRINCIPLES OF CELL BIOLOGY/every semester
Structure and function of cells. Emphasis on anatomy, biochemistry, and
biophysics of organelles to provide thorough understanding of intracellular
and cell-to-cell regulation. Current research problems and special methods
concurrently used to explore problems in cell biology. Prerequisites: BIOL
113 and 114; prerequisite or corequisite: CHEM 332.
BIOL 312. ANIMAL HISTOLOGY (L)
Microscopic study of mammalian tissues and organs. Microstructure of organs
in relation to function. Recognition of tissues under the light microscope.
Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114, 115, and junior standing.
BIOL. 313. CELLULAR NEUROBIOLOGY
Introduction to the organization and function of nervous systems in vertebrates
and invertebrates. Topics include cell biology of neurons, physiology of
excitable membranes and electrical signaling by neurons, sensory mechanisms,
simple circuits and behavior, development and regeneration of nervous tissue.
Emphasis will be placed on molecular neurobiology as it relates to understanding
the function of ionic channels, second messenger systems, and learning and
memory. Prerequisite: BIOL 113.
BIOL 318. DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY (L)
Developmental biology of plants and animals from zygote to maturity, including
such phenomena as embryogenesis, growth, regeneration, metamorphosis, gametogenesis,
and senescence. Cellular and molecular basis of determination and differentiation.
Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114, and 115.
BIOL 320. BIOLOGY OF MICROORGANISMS (L)
Diversity of microbes. Bacteria and their viruses. lnterrelationships of
bacteria and higher organisms, especially in regard to disease. Lectures,
laboratory exercises; fundamental microbial techniques, such as sterility,
pure cultures, and use of microscope. Prerequisites: two semesters of biology
and CHEM 231 (last may be taken concurrently).
BIOL 330. GENETICS/every semester
Principles and problems of heredity. Elementary biometric tests and their
interpretation. Introduction to microbial and molecular genetics. Genetic
control of cellular function and differentiation. Lecture, discussion-demonstration.
Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114, and 115, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 335. MECHANISMS IN EVOLUTION
Fundamental principles of synthetic theory of evolution and its development.
Sources of variability; organization of genetic variability in populations;
differentiation of populations; reproductive isolation and origin of species;
role of hybridization in evolution; major trends of evolution; processes
of evolution in man. Prerequisites: BIOL 113 and 114. BIOL 330 recommended.
BIOL 341. PLANT ANATOMY (L)
Growth and structure of plant cells, tissues, and organs. Phylogenetic relation
between structure and function in spermatophytes. Lecture and laboratory.
Prerequisite: BIOL 240 or consent of instructor.
BIOL 342. PLANT SYSTEMATICS (L)
Synthesis of evidence on relationships and evolutionary history of vascular
plants. Emphasis is placed on important characters, field identification,
determination of family and higher-level classification, and methods of
analysis. Two lectures and one laboratory session per week. Prerequisite:
BIOL 114 or consent of instructor.
BIOL 343. EVOLUTIONARY HISTORY OF LAND PLANTS (L)
Comparative morphology and evolutionary history of major groups of land
plants will be synthesized with an emphasis on evidence from the fossil
record. Current problems, general theories, and experimental procedures
stressed through readings, laboratory study, and field work. Lecture and
laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL 114 or BIOL 240, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 344. PHYCOLOGY (L)
Biology and diversity of the algae, including cell structure, importance
in freshwater and marine communities, and use of algae as models for study
of fundamental biological questions. Students will become familiar with
common freshwater and marine algae. Lecture and laboratory. Field trips,
exams, and a project. Recommended prerequisite: BIOL 240.
BIOL 346. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY
Principles of physiology of green plants. Photosynthesis; water relations;
mineral nutrition; translocation; cellular metabolism; growth and development.
Lecture and discussion. Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114, and 115. Prerequisite
or corequisite: CHEM 332.
BIOL 350. ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY
Structure and function of major physiological systems of vertebrate animals,
from a comparative viewpoint. Effect of the physical and chemical environment
at cellular, systemic, and organismal levels. Lecture and discussion. Prerequisites:
BIOL 113 and 114. Prerequisites or corequisites: BIOL 115 and CHEM 231.
BIOL 353. MAMMALIAN PHYSIOLOGY
Comparative approach to the design and function of the mammalian body, to
include the skeletal, nervous, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive,
excretory, and reproductive systems of mammals. Prerequisites: BIOL 113,
114 (or equivalent), and CHEM 107-108 (or equivalent). [Note: Either BIOL
350 or 353 may be counted toward the major, but not both.]
BIOL 358. AVIAN ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION/2 credits
Basic biology of birds, focusing on characteristics affecting their ecological
role. Conservation issues involving birds. Six to eight field trips emphasizing
identification, behavior, and ecology; two of these field trips on weekends.
Prerequisite: BIOL 114.
BIOL 360. ECOLOGY (L)/every semester
Relation of animals and plants to environment. Biological communities and
physical factors acting on them, studied through lectures, readings, field
and laboratory exercises. Field trips scheduled some weekends during semester.
Prerequisite: BIOL 114.
BIOL 361. FRESHWATER WETLAND ECOLOGY (L)/2 credits
Structure and function of various freshwater wetland types, including swamps,
marshes, fens and bogs. Use of indicator plants to identify wetland types.
Laboratory time will involve field trips to different wetland types, learning
to identify wetland plants and making a collection. Lecture and laboratory.
Prerequisite: BIOL 114.
BIOL 363. ANIMAL BEHAVIOR (L)
Behavior of invertebrate and vertebrate animals from ecological and evolutionary
viewpoint. Laboratory exercises explore behavioral research methodology,
including Independent project. Lecture and laboratory. Prerequisite: BIOL
250.
BIOL 366. ECOLOGICAL FIELD METHODS (L)
Experimental design in ecological field studies. Procedures for sampling
populations (abundance, dispersion, diversity) will be discussed and several
class projects and an individual field project will be conducted. Prerequisites:
BIOL 360 and permission of instructor. Familiarity with basic statistics
and computers is helpful.
BIOL 368. (also GEOG 422). BIOGEOGRAPHY
Ecological principles applied to the study of past, present, and future
distribution patterns of living organisms. Effects of earth history, spatial
pattern, plate tectonics, climate and climate change, and human impacts
on biota. Prerequisite: BIOL 360.
BlOL 369. (also GEOL 369). HISTORY OF TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES (L)
Interpretation of organism environment relationships. Reconstruction of
terrestrial fossil assemblages in light of modern analogues. History of
terrestrial communities, dynamics of community evolution. Lecture and occasional
laboratory session. Prerequisite: any one of BIOL 114, 240, 266, or GEOL
266.
BIOL 415. BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF RADIATION
Physical and biological principles of radiation actions from atomic to organismic
levels, including health effects, ecological effects, biological applications.
Effects of ionizing radiations (e.g., subatomic charged particles, neutrons,
x-rays, gamma rays) and nonionizing radiations (e.g., ultra-violet, infrared,
microwaves, extremely low frequency waves). Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114,
CHEM 107, and 108.
BIOL 420. MICROBIAL GENETICS
Current understanding of the genetics of bacteria and bacteriophages. Primary
focus on molecular genetic aspects of microbes with application to biotechnology.
Structure of bacterial chromosome, DNA replication, damage and repair; strain
construction, biochemical basis of mutations, transposable elements, mechanism
of genetic transformation, transduction and conjugation; gene expression,
regulation, expression of foreign genes in bacteria and yeast; application
of engineered microorganisms in medicine, industry, and agriculture. Lecture
and discussion. Prerequisite: one of BIOL 300, 301, 302, 320, 330, or equivalent.
BIOL 421. IMMUNOLOGY
Introduction to the immune mechanisms, which protect the body from invading
microorganisms and disease. Topics include antibody production and function,
cell-mediated immunity, hypersensitivity, and cytokines and their relation
to disease. Prerequisites: One of BIOL 301, 302, 311, 320, BCHM 301, or
302.
BIOL 422. IMMUNOLOGY LABORATORY (L)/2 credits
A survey of techniques and concepts currently used in experimental immunology.
Methods will include immunoprecipitation, immunoelectrophoresis, enzyme
linked immunosorbent assay, mitogenesis, and cytokine secretion/quantification.
An independent group project will also be required. Lecture and laboratory.
Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 421.
BIOL 424. PHYSIOLOGY OF NUTRITION
Emphasis will be on the biochemical, cellular, and physiological aspects
of human nutrition as it relates to health and disease. Topics will include:
metabolism and function of macro and micronutrients, effect of diet on cancer
and heart disease, weight control, nutrition in specific life stages, as
well as practical information on a healthy diet. Prerequisite: One of the
following: BIOL 301, 302, 311, 350, or 353.
BIOL 432. MODEL BUILDING IN ECOLOGY, BEHAVIOR, AND EVOLUTION
Mathematical, graphical, and computer simulation models in ecology, animal
behavior, and evolution. Emphasis on model-building as a conceptual skill
that is used in conjunction with empirical research to answer important
biological questions. Individual and/or group projects in which students
review a subject and construct models. Prerequisite: A 300-level (or higher)
course in ecology, evolution, or behavior. Non-biology majors should obtain
permission of instructor.
BIOL 452. BIOLOGY OF EXTREME ENVIRONMENTS
Physiological and ecological adaptations of organisms, especially vertebrates,
to environments that represent the extremes compatible with life. Extremes
of heat and cold, dry and wet, pressure and sound, salt and water concentrations,
gases, electromagnetic radiation, gravity, size, nutrient availability as
well as others will be considered. Prerequisite: either BIOL 350, 360, or
BIOL 363, or consent of instructor.
BIOL 457. VERTEBRATE ENDOCRINOLOGY
Structure and function of major endocrine organs; roles of hormones in regulation
of physiological processes, including reproduction, differentiation, growth,
metabolism, and ion, mineral, and water balance, mechanisms of hormone synthesis
and action. Emphasis on basic knowledge derived from mammalian endocrine
systems: some consideration of other vertebrates and applied and clinical
aspects. Lecture and discussion. Prerequisite: BIOL 350 or equivalent, or
consent of instructor.
BIOL 459. ENTOMOLOGY (L)
Physiology, morphology, development, behavior, ecology, and agricultural/medical
significance of insects. Lecture and laboratory or field trip. Prerequisites:
BIOL 113, 114, and 115.
BIOL 460. TROPICAL MARINE BIOLOGY (L)
Fauna, flora, and ecology of tropical marine communities, including coral
reefs, seagrass beds, rocky shorelines, and mangrove swamps. Prepares students
for a week-long field trip to a tropical marine laboratory. Lecture/discussion/laboratory.
Prerequisites: BIOL 114, 115, swimming skills, and consent of the instructor.
Recommended prerequisite: BIOL 250 or 344.
BIOL 461. AQUATIC BIOLOGY (L: Optional)
Primary focus on environmental relations of and interactions among lake-dwelling
populations. Lab option: basic field and lab procedures used to compare
different lake types. Seminar option: oral presentations on eutrophication,
pollution, species introduction, other applied topics. Prerequisites: BIOL
114 and 115; CHEM 108 or 111.
BIOL 463. TROPICAL ECOLOGY (L)
Ecology of tropical environments, emphasizing ecology of rain forests, cloud
forests, and disturbed areas. Special attention given to insect-plant interactions,
bird ecology, and the place of humans in the environment. Includes a 10-day
field trip to Costa Rica over spring recess. Prerequisites: Permision of
instructor; two of BIOL 240, 241, 250, 342, 358, 360 (preferred), 361, 363,
367, 368, 459.
BIOL 464. SOCIOBIOLOGY
Social behavior, social structure, and evolution of social organization
in animals from a naturalistic perspective. Emphasis on genetic determinants
of social behavior and organization, evolution of different grades of social
complexity in the ecological context. Brief treatment of controversy over
application of sociobiological principles to humans. Prerequisite: One of
BIOL 335, 360, 363, 459, or 462.
BIOL 466. BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY OF PRIMATES
Behavorial adaptations and characteristics of primates-from prosimians to
man-in relation to their ecology. Course stresses how foraging, mating and
parental behaviors, behavioral development, cognition, and social behavior
are all interrelated and understandable in the context of the environment
in which they evolved. By applying basic principles of behaviorial ecology
to this single taxonomic group, the influence of ecology on even complex
behavioral characteristics can be clarified. Lecture and discussion. One
required field trip during semester. Recommended prerequisites: familiarity
with primate taxonomy (e.g. ANTH 338) and a course in animal behavior (BIOL
363, BIOL 464, or PSYC 227).
BIOL 470. EVOLUTION AND HUMAN BEHAVIOR
Implications of evolutionary theory for understanding human nature, including:
a) the relationship between human behavior and biological fitness in modern
and pre-modern societies, b) evolutionary psychology, c) evolutionary ethics,
and d) theories of culture as an evolutionary process. Prerequisites: Junior
or senior standing and an introductory course in BIOL, PSYC, ANTH, or SOC.
BIOL 479. SCIENTIFIC WRITING: TAKING THE CRAMP OUT/every semester, 2 credits
The primary aim is to help students develop writing skills for professional
success and personal satisfaction. Secondary aims are to help develop reading
skills, speaking skills, and general scientific literacy. Writing assignments
and exercises introduce students to various types of scientific writing-with
emphasis on the research paper. Whenever possible, each student's interests
determine the topics she or he covers. Prerequisites: BIOL 113, 114, and
two advanced science courses.
BIOL 480. SEMINAR TOPICS/every semester, 2 credits
Topics vary from semester to semester, and are in specialized areas. May
be repeated for credit. Prerequisites may differ from section to section.
Topics covered during recent academic years include aging, avian predators,
genetic engineering, male reproduction, medical genetics, and trace elements.
Prerequisites vary.
BIOL 481. THE RESEARCH PROPOSAL IN BIOLOGY/2 credits
Complements experience in independent research in biology, biochemistry,
or biophysics. Guides students through the process of writing research proposals
and of reviewing and evaluating their merits. Prerequisite: one summer or
one semester of independent research in biology or related scientific discipline.
BIOL 482. THE ETHICS OF BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH/2 credits
Discussion and debate on the regulations governing biological research and
on the ethical questions that arise as a result of advances in molecular
biology. Prerequisite: one summer or one semester of independent research
in biology, biochemistry, or related discipline.
BIOL 490. SEMINAR TOPICS/2 credits
Same as BIOL 480 but restricted to the pass/fail option by the instructor.
Does satisfy major or all-college requirements. Course is not included in
the 24 credit limit of Harpur College.
BIOL 491. PRACTICUM IN COLLEGE TEACHING/every semester
Independent study by assisting In a course. Various assignments directed
by instructor including laboratory instruction. May be repeated for total
of no more than 8 credits. Credit may not be earned in conjunction with
course in which student is currently enrolled. Does not satisfy major or
all-college requirements. Prerequisites: consent of instructor and department
approval. P/F only.
BI0L 496. INDEPENDENT STUDY/every semester, variable credit
Individual work, not involving field or laboratory research, under direct
supervision of faculty member. Prior to registration, student must consult
instructor and receive approval of problem to be investigated, and amount
of credit to be received. Prerequisites: consent of department and junior
standing.
BIOL 497. INDEPENDENT FIELD OR LABORATORY RESEARCH (L)/every semester, variable
credit
Individual field or laboratory research under direct supervision of faculty
member. Prior to registration, student must consult instructor and receive
approval of problem to be investigated, and amount of credit to be received.
An application must be submitted to the departmental office. Prerequisites:
consent of department and junior standing. Students in the honors program
should register for this course.
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Graduate Programs
The Biological Sciences Department offers programs leading to the degrees
of master of arts and doctor of philosophy. These programs provide training
in the areas of (i) molecular biology and genetics, (ii) organismal physiology
and ultrastructure, and (iii) ecology, behavior, and evolution, including
paleobotany. The programs stress flexibility and especially encourage communication
and collaboration among the subdisciplines of biology. Experience in teaching,
considered important for graduate students, is encouraged.
Admission
Admission to the graduate program is open to qualified students with a bachelor's
degree or its equivalent. All applicants should submit a complete set of
official transcripts, at least two letters of recommendation, a statement
of professional interests and goals, and scores for the Graduate Record
Examination aptitude and advanced tests.
Master of Arts Program
The master of arts degree allows students to expand their background in
a particular area of the biological sciences and to gain experience in research.
Entering students are expected to affiliate with a professor, form a three-member
supervising committee, and begin research in the first year. Soon after
formation, the committee meets with the student to establish the nature
and scope of the research. The committee should meet two to four times per
year to assess the student's progress.
Course Requirements
A minimum of 30 semester-credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree is required
for completion of the master of arts degree. These credits are distributed
as follows:
Sixteen to 24 credit hours of courses numbered 500 or above (exclusive of
BIOL 591, 599, and all MAT/MST courses). A maximum of 12 credit hours of
BIOL 597, Independent Study, is allowed.
Zero to 8 credit hours of elective courses outside of the biological sciences.
Approval of the departmental graduate committee is required.
Six credit hours of BIOL 599, Investigations in Biology-Thesis, are required.
Granting of the Degree
The department requires that each candidate for the degree of master of
arts in biological sciences complete the following additional requirements:
1. Maintain a 3.0 average in all graduate credit courses (exclusive of BIOL
599)
2. Complete a thesis acceptable to the supervising committee
3. Pass a final oral examination on the subject matter of the thesis and
related biological knowledge
4. Present a formal seminar to the department based on his or her thesis
research.
Doctor of Philosophy
Program
The Biological Sciences Department is made up of many subdisciplines, each
with its own special requirements. Graduate students entering these subdisciplines
have a variety of backgrounds and future needs. The department recognizes
these differences by stressing maximum flexibility for the program of each
individual student. This flexible planning is the province of the committee
supervising the research program of the graduate student.
The PhD is a research degree. Entering graduate students are expected to
associate themselves with a professor and establish a research program as
early as possible after entering the department. The major steps leading
to the granting of the degree are to:
1. Affiliate with a supervising professor.
2. Establish a supervising committee.
3. Take the qualifying exam.
4. Take the comprehensive exams.
5. Submit a dissertation prospectus.
6. Submit the dissertation.
7. Take the final oral dissertation defense.
8. Give a departmental seminar.
Affiliation and
Supervising Committee
The student must affiliate with a supervising professor, agree on a research
topic, and establish a four-member supervising committee within the first
year following admission to the department's graduate program. This committee
and particularly the chairperson, who is the supervising professor, is responsible
for the direction of the student. There should be regular meetings with
the student to insure adequate direction and progress.
Course Requirements
The number of semester-credit hours required for completion of the PhD is
determined for each student by the supervising committee.
Qualifying Examination
Completion of the qualifying examination is the formal entry into the PhD
program. Prior to the examination, the student must prepare a 2-3 page preliminary
research proposal, an outline of the research to be done for the degree.
This examination must be completed within the first year after entry into
the department.
The purposes of the examination are:
1. To determine if the student should be formally entered into the PhD program.
2. To determine at an early stage the appropriateness and feasibility of
the research proposal.
3. To establish the language requirement. The need for the ability to read
and/or speak a foreign language varies considerably within the different
subdisciplines of biology. The requirement is therefore flexible (usually
one or no language) and is determined by the individual supervising committee.
4. To evaluate the academic strengths and weaknesses of the student. Particular
emphasis should be placed on the background needed for the research project.
The committee may require courses and outside readings to strengthen the
student in his research area.
Comprehensive Examinations
The comprehensives are a series of oral examinations. The number of examinations
will vary among students and is determined by the individual supervising
committee. The purposes of this series of examinations are to determine
the breadth and depth of the student's knowledge, the research ability,
and to advise on the research project.
The comprehensive examinations are completed when the supervising committee
is satisfied that the student has the appropriate background to complete
the proposed research. These examinations should be completed by the end
of the fifth semester after entering the department.
Dissertation Prospectus
A dissertation prospectus must be submitted within six months following
the completion of the comprehensive examinations. This prospectus, usually
an updated version of the research proposal submitted to the supervising
committee, must be approved in writing by the four-member supervising committee.
Meetings between the student and supervising committee should continue on
a regular basis to allow committee members to monitor the progress of the
research.
Final Oral Defense
After the dissertation is submitted, the research must be defended in an
oral examination. This exam is conducted by a five-member committee made
up of the supervising professor, the other three members of the supervising
committee, and an outside examiner appointed by the vice provost. This examination
covers the details and implications of the student's research.
Seminar Requirement
PhD candidates are expected to present a formal seminar to the department
based on their research dissertation.
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Course Offerings/
Graduate
BIOL 501. BIOCHEMISTRY: MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Mechanism and regulation of DNA replication, transcription, biosynthesis
of proteins, viral replication. Application of recombinant DNA techniques.
Prerequisites: cell biology and organic chemistry.
BIOL 502. BIOCHEMISTRY: METABOLIC ASPECTS
Cellular constituents: their biosynthesis, roles in nutrition and energy
metabolism, relations to structure, function, development, and regulation.
Four 1-hour lectures per week. Prerequisites: cell biology and organic chemistry,
or consent of instructor.
BIOL 503. MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LABORATORY/2 credits
Preparation of DNA libraries and subcloning, detection of specific DNA and
RNA sequences, and sequencing of DNA. One 1-hour lecture and one 4-hour
laboratory. Prerequisites: BIOL 501 and 504 or equivalents.
BIOL 504. BIOCHEMISTRY LABORATORY/2 credits
Laboratory techniques including the purification of proteins, characterization
of enzymes, and other methods of analysis. One 1-hour lecture and one 4-hour
laboratory per week. Prerequisite or corequisite: BIOL 502 or equivalent.
BIOL 510. BIOLOGICAL ULTRASTRUCTURE
An inquiry into the organization of cells and organelles and the relationship
of structure to function. Discussion of methods of modern microscopy and
interpretation of electron micrographs. Student presentations based on topics
selected from current ultrastructural literature. Three hours of lecture,
two hours of discussion per week. Prerequisite: college-level course dealing
with cell biology at the introductory level.
BIOL 511. TECHNIQUES IN TRANSMISSION ELECTRON MICROSCOPY
Lecture course on principles of operation of transmission electron microscope,
techniques used in preparation of biological specimens for examination.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Recommended prerequisite: BIOL 510
or equivalent.
BIOL 512. PRINCIPLES OF SCANNING ELECTRON
MICROSCOPY/2 credits
Training in the theory and operation of a scanning electron microscope and
specimen preparation of biological and nonbiological samples. After achieving
proficiency in the operation of the microscope, students will prepare and
examine a variety of specimens. One quiz, one exam, a written report including
micrographs. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
BIOL 513. CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY I
A detailed study of various specific topics which transverse a broad range
of fields in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology. Topics can vary but
may include recent trends in molecular biology, intercellular communication,
developmental genetics, and cell trafficking.
BIOL 514. CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY II
A continuation of BIOL 513 with detailed study of various specific topics
in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology. Topics can vary but may include
recent trends in molecular biology, the cell cycle, and database information
systems.
BIOL 515. BIOLOGICAL ACTIONS OF RADIATION
Physical and biological principles underlying interactions of ionizing and
nonionizing radiations with living organisms. Modulation of radiation sensitivity,
radiation damage, environmental hazards, applications to medicine and biology.
Prerequisites: general physics and cell biology.
BIOL 516. TRANSMISSION ELECTRON MICROSCOPY LABORATORY/2 credits
Laboratory course in operation of transmission electron microscope, instruments
and techniques used in preparing specimens for examination. Enrollment limited.
Two 4-hour laboratory sessions per week. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
Corequisite: BIOL 511.
BIOL 520. MICROBIAL GENETICS
Current understanding of the genetics of bacteria and bacteriophages. Primary
focus on molecular genetic aspects of microbes with application to biotechnology.
Structure of bacterial chromosome, DNA replication, damage and repair; strain
construction, biochemical basis of mutations, transposable elements, mechanism
of genetic transformation, transduction and conjugation; gene expression,
regulation, expression of foreign genes in bacteria and yeast; application
of engineered microorganisms in medicine, industry, and agriculture. Lecture
and discussion. Graduate students required to write an extra term paper
for graduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
BIOL 521. IMMUNOLOGY
Introduction to the immune mechanisms, which protect the body from invading
microorganisms and disease. Topics include antibody production and function,
cell-mediated immunity, hypersensitivity, and cytokines and their relation
to disease.
BIOL 522. IMMUNOLOGY LABORATORY/2 credits
A survey of techniques and concepts currently used in experimental immunology.
Methods will include enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, immunoprecipitation,
immunoelectrophoresis, mitogenesis, and cytokine secretion/quantification.
An independent group project will also be required. Lecture and laboratory.
BIOL 531. ECOLOGICAL GENETICS
The interface between the sciences of ecology and evolutionary biology with
an emphasis on recent studies of species within natural communities. Prerequisite:
ecology and evolution, or permission of instructor.
BIOL 532. MODEL BUILDING IN ECOLOGY
The fields of ecology, animal behavior, and evolution have become increasingly
theoretical in their orientation. This course will review mathematical,
graphical, and computer simulation models on a variety of topics ranging
from the behavior of individuals to the dynamics of multi-species communities.
The emphasis will be on model-building as a conceptual skill that is used
in conjunction with empirical research to answer important biological questions.
Mathematical sophistication is not required, although students should be
prepared to work through simple equations in detail. The course includes
individual and/or group projects in which the students review a subject
and construct their own models. Prerequisites: At least one 300-level (or
higher) course in ecology, evolution, and/or behavior, or permission of
instructor.
* BIOL 533. ADVANCED THEORETICAL BIOLOGY
Advanced topics and methods in theoretical biology. Students will conduct
an independent project that involves reading the theoretical literature
on a specific subject and building a theoretical model that extends the
literature. Class will also meet as a group to discuss papers and learn
methods in model building and computer simulation. Prerequisite: BIOL 432
or permission of instructor.
BIOL 535. PRINCIPLES OF EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY
Synthetic theory of evolution: sources of variability in populations; natural
selection and random genetic drift; gene flow and population structure;
differentiation among populations; reproductive isolation and the origin
of species.
BIOL 537 (also GEOL 563). HISTORY OF TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES
Interpretation of organism-environmental relationships and reconstruction
of ancient terrestrial communities. Prerequisite: one or more of following:
paleobiology, biology of organisms-animals, botany, prehistoric archaeology,
human evolution, ecological anthropology.
BIOL 546. PHYSIOLOGY OF PLANTS
Physical, chemical, structural bases for the functioning of plants, with
emphasis on flowering plants. Recent advances in water relationships; mineral
uptake and transport; photosynthesis; photomorphogenesis; recombinant DNA
plant research, among other topics. Prerequisites: cell biology, organic
chemistry, and physics.
BIOL 547 (also GEOL 567). PALEOBOTANY
Fossil plants and their geologic history. Morphology and evolution of major
plant groups. Plant microfossils, floral migrations, paleobotanical evidence
of climatological change. Field trips. Three class periods, one 3-hour laboratory
per week. Prerequisites: two upper-level botany courses.
BIOL 550. ANIMAL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION
Morphological and physiological adaptations of animals to their environment.
Physical, chemical, evolutionary principles. Three 1-hour lectures, one
recitation/discussion session per week. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
BIOL 552. BIOLOGY OF ANIMALS IN EXTREME ENVIRONMENTS
The study of physiological and ecological adaptations of animals to environments
which represent the extremes compatible with life. Extremes of heat and
cold, dry and wet, pressure and sound, salt and water concentrations, gases,
electromagnetic radiation, gravity, size, nutrient availability as well
as others will be considered. Prerequisite: a course in ecology, behavior,
or animal physiology, or consent of instructor.
BIOL 561. LIMNOLOGY
Physical, chemical, biological features of freshwater ecosystems. Environmental
control of distribution and abundance patterns of lake and stream populations,
competition and predator-prey relations, lake euthrophication, and acidification.
Prerequisite: basic chemistry.
BIOL 561L. LIMNOLOGY LABORATORY/2 credits
Basic limnological field sampling and laboratory analysis procedures, comparative
study of differing lake types in southern New York and northern Pennsylvania.
May be taken concurrently with BIOL 561. Prerequisites: basic chemistry
and consent of instructor.
BIOL 562. ADVANCED COMMUNITY ECOLOGY
Focus on patterns in structure of natural communities. Interactions of plants
and animals, energy flow, community changes in time and space, major biomes
and current experimentation. Three 1-hour lectures/discussions and one 4-hour
laboratory per week. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
* BIOL 563. TROPICAL ECOLOGY
Ecology of tropical environments, emphasizing ecology of rain forests, cloud
forests, and disturbed areas. Special attention given to insect-plant interactions,
bird ecology, and the place of humans in the environment. Research paper
on tropical ecology topic. Includes a 10-day field trip to Costa Rica over
spring recess. Prerequisites: Permission of instructor, a basic ecology
course, and at least one other upper-level field biology course. Offered
spring semester with field trip in January before semester begins. Fixed
course.
BIOL 564. SOCIOBIOLOGY
Adaptive significance of animal social organization. Vertebrate intraspecific
interactions, ecological perspectives. Mating systems, reproductive strategies
and energetics, aggression, altruism, life history strategies, and other
topics. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
BIOL 565. BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY
Interdisciplinary synthesis of major theories of animal behavior, sociobiology,
evolutionary ecology. Theoretical exploration, particularly to resolve semantic
differences. One 3-hour lecture/discussion per week. Prerequisite: animal
behavior and/or consent of instructor.
BIOL 566. FIELD METHODS IN ECOLOGY
Ecological methods for studying plants and animals in natural populations;
series of field studies. Population estimates, life history tables, patterns
of dispersion, measurements of diversity, and interactions. Class meets
four hours per week. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
BIOL 567. ADVANCED PLANT ECOLOGY/2 credits
Environmental relations of plants, quantitative approaches to carbon gain
and energy balance. Labs emphasize vegetation sampling and analysis. One
lecture/discussion, one laboratory per week. Prerequisites: general ecology
and graduate standing, or consent of instructor.
BIOL 568. BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY OF PRIMATES
Behavioral adaptations and characteristics of primates-from prosimians to
man-in relation to their ecology. Course stresses how foraging, mating and
parental behaviors, behavioral development, cognition and social behavior
are all interrelated and understandable in the context of the environment
in which they evolved. By applying basic principles of behavioral ecology
to this single taxonomic group, the influence of ecology on even complex
behavioral characteristics can be clarified. Conservation issues will also
be addressed. Three lecture hours and one discussion hour per week. One
required field trip during semester. Recommended prerequisites: Familiarity
with primate taxonomy (e.g. ANTH 338) and a course in animal behavior (BIOL
363, 464 or PSYC 227). Prerequisite: consent of instructor. (Taught simultaneously
with BIOL 466.)
BIOL 570. EVOLUTION AND HUMAN BEHAVIOR
Despite the fact that Darwin's theory is over 130 years old, attempts to
understand human behavior in terms of evolutionary theory remain controversial.
This course will critically examine the latest developments including: a)
Human sociobiology, b) Theories of culture as an evolutionary process, c)
evolutionary approaches to psychology, and d) evolutionary approaches to
morality. Three hours of lecture per week. No prerequisites. A brief tutorial
of evolutionary theory will be offered at the beginning of the course for
non-biology graduate students.
BIOL 579. SCIENTIFIC WRITING FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS IN THE BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES/2
credits
For graduate students in biological sciences faced with arduous task of
"writing up'' research data for publication in scientific journals.
Prerequisites: should have completed much of research and be ready to start
writing manuscripts as part of their thesis or dissertation; permission
of instructor.
BIOL 591. THE TEACHING OF COLLEGE BIOLOGY/2-4 credits/semester
Can be taken by teaching assistants or fellows as necessary. Course credit
but no grade.
BIOL 595. SPECIAL STUDIES FOR MAT/MST STUDENTS
Open only to students enrolled in MAT and MST programs. Investigation in
depth of some specific area of biology. Prerequisite: consent of faculty
member under whom work is to be done.
BIOL 597. INDEPENDENT STUDIES IN BIOLOGY/1-4 credits/semester
Special training in subjects not offered in courses. Requires consent of
instructor and departmental graduate committee. This course designation
may be used only twice with student's major advisor as instructor, only
three times in a degree program. Proper designation for thesis or dissertation
research is BIOL 599 or 699.
BIOL 599. INVESTIGATIONS IN BIOLOGY-THESIS/1-6 credits/semester
Independent work and preparation of MA thesis on approved problem. Credit
granted only after thesis is approved by student's committee.
BIOL 601. SPECIAL TOPICS IN PROTEIN BIOCHEMISTRY/1-4 credits
Various topics relating to proteins. Topics vary from year to year, include
molecular evolution, techniques in protein chemistry, structure/function
relationships in proteins, etc. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite:
biochemistry or consent of instructor.
BIOL 602. IMMUNOCHEMISTRY/2 credits
Structure/function relationships of antibodies, genetic basis of antibody
diversity, cellular interactions in antibody production, immunochemical
techniques.
* BIOL 603. SCIENTIFIC INTEGRITY/1 credit
Issues of scientific integrity will be examined using a case study approach.
Topics will include authorship, ownership of data, care of research subjects,
research conduct, mentoring, conflict-of-interest. Prerequisite: permission
of instructor;.completion of a semester of research recommended.
* BIOL 604. SURVIVAL KIT FOR SCIENTISTS: PART I - TEACHING ISSUES/3 credits
Various teaching issues will be addressed, such as how to develop a lecture,
a course, a laboratory exercise, a cooperative learning exercise, and critical
thinking and the art of synthesis in your students. Other topics include
how to lead a discussion, how to supervise student researchers, how to teach
for scientific literacy, and how to evaluate students and your own course.
By the end of the course, students will have assembled a teaching portfolio.
Permission of instructor required.
* BIOL 605. SURVIVAL KIT FOR SCIENTISTS: PART II - RESEARCH ISSUES/3 credits
Research issues will be addressed, such as the philosophy and application
of the scientific method, lab management, how to supervise graduate research,
strategies for short and long term projects, identifying projects suitable
for students. Other topics will be how to present a seminar, high-technology
acquisition of information, the art of publishing, postdoctoral strategies,
and getting a job. Prerequisite: permission of instructor; completion of
two semesters of research recommended.
* BIOL 606. HOW TO WRITE A GRANT PROPOSAL/3 credits
The process of writing a proposal is broken into a series of steps. Funding
by various agencies will be discussed. Strategies for writing proposals
will be developed. Each student will produce a research proposal by the
end of term, which will be reviewed by the class acting as the review panel.
Prerequisite: permission of instructor; completion of one semester of research
recommended.
BIOL 680. TOPICS IN BIOLOGY/2 credits
Topics vary from semester to semester and are in specialized areas. In recent
years, following topics have been given one or more times:
Allometry: Importance of Body Size
Aquatic Botany
Behavioral Ecology
Biochemical Basis of the Immune Response
Biological Statistics
Biotechnology
Cell Organelle Development
Chemical Evolution and the Origin of Life
Community Ecology
Control of the Immune Response
Current Research in Animal Behavior
Current Topics in Paleoecology
Current Topics in Theoretical Ecology
Developmental Biology
Eukaryotic Protein Biosynthesis
Evolution of Vascular Tissue
Gymnosperms
Human Nutrition, Health and Disease
Image Analysis
Mammalian Population Regulation
Membrane Trafficking
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry of Seed Proteins
Molecular Biology of Nitrogen Fixation
Molecular Evolution
Paleobotanical Techniques
Protein, Protein Interactions, and Catalysis
Protein Trafficking in Cells
Topics in Cellular Differentiation
Topics in Endocrinology
Topics in Global Ecology
Topics in Plant Ecology
Topics in Protein Chemistry
Topics in Regulatory Genetics
Topics in Reproductive Biology
Topics in Vertebrate Ecology
May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: consent of
instructor.
BIOL 696. RESEARCH IN BIOLOGY/1-9 credits
Original laboratory or field research leading to preparation of dissertation
prospectus. May be taken only by PhD track students prior to admission to
candidacy for doctor of philosophy degree. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
BIOL 698. PREDISSERTATION RESEARCH/1-9 credits/semester
Independent reading and/or research in preparation for comprehensive examinations
for admission to PhD candidacy, and/or preparation of dissertation prospectus.
May be taken only with permission from director of graduate program. Graded
on S/U basis only.
BIOL 699. INVESTIGATIONS IN BIOLOGY-DISSERTATION/1-9 credits/semester
Independent work and preparation of PhD dissertation on approved problem.
Credit granted only after dissertation is approved by student's committee.
BIOL 700. CONTINUOUS REGISTRATION/1 credit/semester
Required for maintenance of matriculated status in graduate program. No
credit toward graduate degree requirements.
BIOL 707. RESEARCH SKILLS/1-4 credits
Development of research skills required within graduate programs. May not
be applied toward credits for any graduate degree. Prerequisite: approval
of relevant graduate program directors or department chairs.
* Pending Graduate Council Approval
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