Degree Requirements for the Faculty-Initiated Interdisciplinary Major with a Concentration in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
program is a Faculty-Initiated
Interdisciplinary major (Biology and
Chemistry) designed for students interested
in these rapidly developing fields of
science. Students with training in these
fields can pursue careers as researchers in
academic or industrial settings or they can
pursue further study in graduate or
professional schools. Students must complete
40 graduation credits before application to
the program, generally in the spring of the
sophomore year.
Admission: Students must obtain the approval
of the Program Director before officially
declaring this Faculty-Initiated
Interdisciplinary Program as a major.
General Program B.S. Combined major and minor
sequence consisting of a minimum of 65
credits to be taken from: A Bio 110F or 110N,
111N, 212, 312, 313, 365, 366, 367; A Chm
120N, 121N, 122A, 122B, 216A, 216B, 217A,
217B; 441A, 441B, (or 340A, 340B); A Phy
120N, 124N; A Mat 111, 112 or 118; 113 or
119; and at least 2 credits of 300- or 400-
level laboratory courses in either biology or
chemistry. Credits in A Bio 399, 399Z, 499,
499Z, A Chm 425, 426 may be used to fulfill
this 2 credit requirement if the student
completes at least 4 credits over 2
semesters.
Selection of specific elective courses will
depend on the student's interests and future
goals. The student is encouraged to meet with
the Program Director for advisement in
selection of these courses. Generally
recommended electives include A Bio 301,
302Z, 304, 314, 315, 335, 335Z, 336Z, 341,
342, 399, 499; A Chm 225, 420A, 430; A Csi
201N, 204; A Mat 214; A Phy 122, 126 or 220.
Honors Program
The honors program in biology is designed for
outstanding students in the programs leading
to the B.S. degree. Students may apply for
admission to the honors program by submitting
a letter of request to the departmental
honors committee no later than April 15 of
the freshman or sophomore year (for admission
for the fall) or November 15 of the sophomore
year (for admission in the spring). Junior
transfers may apply at the time of their
admission to the University. Students found
acceptable by the committee must find a
research adviser to supervise the independent
study leading to an HONORS THESIS.
The requirements for admission include: (1)
the candidate must declare the major and have
completed (or have in progress at time of
application) 12 credits of course work
required for the biology major, including
A Bio 110F or 110N, and 111N; (2) an overall
grade point average of 3.50; (3) a grade
point average of 3.50 in courses required for
the major; and (4) a written recommendation
from an adviser, professor or teaching
assistant if possible. Primary emphasis will
be placed on indications of academic ability
and maturity sufficient for applicants to
complete with distinction a program involving
independent research.
Students in the program are required to
complete a minimum of 65 or 66 credits as
specified for the respective program for the
B.S. in biology and must include: (1) at
least 6 credits of independent study (A Bio
399, 499); the independent study, or honors
research project, which will result in an
HONORS THESIS; (2) at least 3 credits of
course work at the 500 level or higher (not
including A Bio 515) in the student's area of
interest; and (3) oral presentation of
research at a public seminar.
Students in the program must maintain both a
minimum grade point average of 3.50 overall
and in biology courses taken to satisfy major
requirements during the junior and senior
years. The progress of participants in the
honors program will be reviewed at the end of
the sophomore and junior years by the
student's adviser and the departmental honors
committee. Students not meeting academic and
independent research standards may be
precluded from continuing in the program
during their senior year. These students may,
of course, continue as majors.
After completion of the requirements above,
the departmental honors committee will make
its recommendation to the faculty to grant
the degree "with honors in biology" based
upon (1) overall academic record, (2)
performance and accomplishments of the
independent study project(s), (3) the quality
of the Oral Presentation (4) the evaluations
of departmental faculty members who have
supervised these activities.
Combined B.S./M.S. Program
The combined B.S./M.S. program in biology
provides an opportunity for students of
recognized academic ability and educational
maturity to fulfill integrated requirements
of undergraduate and master's degree programs
from the beginning of the junior year. A
carefully designed program can permit a
student to earn the B.S. and M.S. degrees
within nine semesters.
The combined program requires a minimum of
138 credits, of which at least 30 must be
graduate credits. In qualifying for the B.S.,
students must meet all University and college
requirements, including the requirements of
the undergraduate major described previously,
the minimum 60-credit liberal arts and
sciences requirement, general education
requirements, and residency requirements. In
qualifying for the M.S., students must meet
all University and college requirements as
outlined in the Graduate Bulletin, including
completion of a minimum of 30 graduate
credits and any other conditions such as a
research seminar, thesis, comprehensive
examination, professional experience, and
residency requirements. Up to 12 graduate
credits may be applied simultaneously to both
the B.S. and M.S. programs.
While satisfying B.S. and M.S. requirements,
students must complete a coherent sequence of
courses in one of the two core areas:
ecology, evolution, and behavior (EEB); or,
molecular, cellular, developmental, and
neural biology (MCDN). This sequence of
courses begins with a 400-level course and
includes a minimum of three graduate courses
up to a total of at least 9 credits. In
addition, the sequence should include two
semesters involving a discussion of the
current literature in the field of biology
selected by the student (one of the
following: A Bio 650 or A Bio 633).
Students are considered as undergraduates
until completion of all B.S. requirements.
Upon meeting B.S. requirements, students are
automatically considered as graduate
students. Although the Graduate Record
Examinations are not required for this
program, students are encouraged to take the
examinations in their senior year with the
expectation that they will continue graduate
studies.
Students may be admitted to the program at
the beginning of the junior year or after the
completion of 56 credits. Normally an
application should be made at the completion
of the sophomore year. Those students who are
accepted into the program in their Junior
year must complete at least three (3)
semesters of research in the Bio 399-499
sequence. Seniors are not normally admitted
into this program. However, students may be
accepted if they have completed at least one
semester of Bio 399 (for admittance at the
beginning of first semester senior year) or
one semester each of Bio 399 and 499 (for
admittance at the beginning of second
semester senior year). A minimum grade point
average of 3.20 is required and the
application should be supported by a minimum
of three letters of recommendation from
faculty. The application should be submitted
to the department chair.
Joint Seven-Year Biology/Optometry Program
This combined program sponsored by the State
College of Optometry, State University of New
York, and the University at Albany, provides
students an opportunity to earn a Bachelor of
Science (B.S.) degree in biology and a Doctor
of Optometry (D.O.) in seven years.
Participating students will matriculate at
the University at Albany for three years and
begin their Optometry studies in year four of
the program. Students will be awarded the
B.S. degree after completion of their
requirements at the end of the fourth year.
At the end of the seventh year and completion
of all program requirements, students will be
awarded the D.O. degree.
Students interested in making application to
this program shall submit the necessary
materials to the Pre-Health adviser in the
University's Advisement Services Center by
the stated deadline in the middle of the
spring semester of the freshman or sophomore
year (transfer students are ineligible).
Selection will be based on written
application materials, academic progress, and
a personal interview. A minimum of a 3.2
grade point average on a scale of 4.0 in
undergraduate courses completed at the time
of application is required.
Students will complete three years (90
credits) of study at the University at Albany
with a major in biology for a B.S. degree.
Students attend SUNY-Optometry (New York, NY)
for the fourth year of study (and pay SUNY-
Optometry tuition), beginning the first year
of the professional program. With the
completion of the fourth year of study, the
University at Albany will accept as transfer
credits twenty-four credits of biology and
six credits of physics electives, for a total
of 30 credits. Students in this program
should take the Optometry Admission Test
(OAT) in October or February of the third
year at the University at Albany.
A minimum of 90 credits must be taken at the
University at Albany. Summer course work
completed the first and second year or
between the second and third year at the
University at Albany is acceptable for this
program.
The following courses are required: A Bio
110F, 111N, 212, 16 credits of biology
electives* (of which twelve credits must be
the 300 or 400 level); A Chm 120N, 122a,
121N, 122b, 216a, 217a, 216b, 217b; A Mat
112, 108; A Phy 105N, 106, 108N, 109; and
A Psy 101M. In addition to the General
Education Program requirements, students are
required to enroll in ten credits of
electives.
*The biology electives MUST be 300-400 level
courses in biology that are designated as
courses that count towards the biology major.
The following courses will not be used as
biology electives: A Bio 303, 325, 341, 342,
365, 406, 410, and 411.
Courses
A Bio 102N General Biological Sciences (3)
General Education: NS
Introduction to the major concepts in biology
and a survey of the common structures of
organisms, including humans, and their
functions at the molecular, cellular,
organismal and population levels. Emphasis
placed on principles of ecology, inheritance,
evolution and physiology relevant to human
society. May not be taken for credit by
students who have credit in A Bio 110N or
A Bio 110F or A Bio 111N or other equivalent
introductory courses. Does not yield credit
toward the major in biology.
A Bio 110N General Biology I (4)
General Education: NS
First course in a two semester sequence which
offers a comprehensive survey of the
structures and functions common to all living
systems at the molecular, cellular,
organismal, and population levels. This
course emphasizes evolutionary principles,
ecology, and behavior. Three class periods
and one laboratory per week. A Bio 110F is
the writing intensive version of A Bio 110N;
only one may be taken for credit. Offered
fall semester only. May not be offered during
1999-2000.
A Bio 110F General Biology I (4)
General Education: NS & WI
A Bio 110F is the writing intensive version
of A Bio 110N; only one may be taken for
credit. Offered fall semester only.
A Bio 111N General Biology II (4)
General Education: NS
Second course in a two semester sequence
which offers a comprehensive survey of the
structures and functions common to all living
systems at the molecular. cellular,
organismal, and population levels. This
course emphasizes structure and function at
the cellular level as a basis for
understanding function at the organismal
level. Offered spring semester only. Three
class periods and one laboratory per week.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 110F or 110N.
A Bio 112 Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
This course (lecture and laboratory) will
provide an introduction to the cell, tissues,
skeleton, structure and function of muscle
and the anatomy and physiology of the nervous
system which compose the human body. Does not
yield credit towards the major in biology.
Offered summers only. May not be offered
during 1999-2000.
A Bio 113 Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
This course (lecture and laboratory) will
provide an introduction to the structure and
function of the human digestive, circulatory,
respiratory, immune, urinary endocrine and
reproductive systems with emphasis on the
homeostatic functions of these systems. Does
not yield credit towards the major in
biology. Offered summers only. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 117N Nutrition (3)
General Education: NS
The biological roles of energy, protein,
vitamins, and minerals; digestion,
absorption, and storage of nutrients, the
chemical nature of foods and food processing;
assessment of nutritional status;
interactions of nutrients and disease; food
supplementation and community nutrition. Does
not yield credit toward the major in biology.
A Bio 199 Contemporary Issues in Biological Sciences (1-3)
Issues from the current literature in
selected areas of biological sciences.
Particular areas of study to be announced
each semester. Intended for students
interested in exploring in depth themes
covered in large lecture classes. S/U or A-E
graded. May be repeated for credit when topic
varies. May not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 205 Human Genetics (3)
Survey of human genetics emphasizing the
principles and mechanisms of inheritance and
including the analysis of the genetic
material of humans; the behavior of genes in
individuals families, and populations; and
the implications for human behavior and
evolution, medicine, and society.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 110F and 111N or
permission of instructor. Does not yield
credit toward the major in biology.
A Bio 208N Marine Biology (3)
General Education: NS
An exploration of life, its origin,
evolutionary paths and present diversity in
oceanic and near shore environments.
Structure, function, behavior and ecology of
the major groupings of organisms are related
to existence in selected marine environments.
Three lectures per week. Prerequisite(s): one
year of high school biology. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 209N The Human Organism (3)
General Education: NS
An introduction to the biology of the human
organism from the perspective of its anatomy
and physiology, emphasizing applications to
modern life and human society. Does not yield
credit toward the major in biology.
A Bio 212 Introductory Genetics (4)
Genetics from the classical Mendelian Laws of
inheritance to molecular genetics. Topics
will include: DNA structure and replication;
Mendelian genetics and recombination;
population, fungal, somatic cell, and
bacterial genetics; gene organization; the
genetic code; mechanisms of gene expression
and regulation; and applications of genetic
technology. Three class periods and one
discussion section. Prerequisite(s): A Bio
111N.
A Bio 214 Genetics II (3)
A continuation of A Bio 212. Topics to be
covered will include viruses; genetics of
organelles (mitochondria and chloroplasts);
genetic diseases; mutagenesis and repair of
DNA; RNA splicing; gene regulation;
transposition and other gene arrangements;
developmental genetics; and genetic
engineering. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212.
A Bio 217 Introductory Cell Biology (3)
An introduction to modern cell biology. This
course will present the basic organization of
eukaryotic cells while stressing their
elaborate structural-functional integration.
The cell's fundamental properties conserved
through evolution will be stressed. May not
be taken for credit by students who have
credit in A Bio 301 or A Bio 304.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212.
A Bio 230N People and Resources in Ecological Perspective (3)
General Education: NS
Introduction to ecosystems, soils science,
and the distribution of natural communities.
The study of humans as a global population
and its social implications for resource
exploitation. A historical perspective on
resource-oriented behavior. Does not yield
credit toward the major in biology.
A Bio 241N The Biology of Sex (3)
General Education: NS
This course, designed for nonmajors, examines
sex from a biological perspective in species
from bacteria to humans. Topics covered
include sexual and asexual reproduction,
sexual selection, mate choice, sex
determination, sexual dimorphisms, mating
strategies, courtship, genetic and
environmental determinants of sexual
behavior, and genetic and neural bases of
sexual orientation. This course focuses on
biological rather than social or cultural
constructions of sex and reproduction.
Prerequisite(s): high school biology. Does
not yield credit toward the major in biology.
A Bio 299 Research Tools for Independent Study (2)
This course will provide students with basic,
current laboratory training that will assist
them in research. Laboratory exercises are
drawn from the general areas of molecular,
neural, cellular and developmental, and
behavioral biology. Emphasis is placed upon
interpreting and presenting data, developing
scientific writing skills, and designing
experiments to answer questions. Advisement
toward placement into faculty research labs
will be included. One laboratory per week and
additional flexible time as required.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212 and permission of
the instructor..
A Bio 301 Cell Biology (3)
Molecular basis of cell structure and
functions in eukaryotes. Topics include:
basic genetic mechanisms and protein
synthesis; recombinant DNA technology, cell
nucleus and control of gene expression;
plasma membrane structure, transport and
excitability; intracellular compartments,
protein sorting, exocytosis and endocytosis;
cell signaling and cell communication.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212. Prerequisite or
corequisite: A Bio 365.
A Bio 302Z (formerly Bio 302B) Cell Biology Laboratory (2)
General Education: WI
Introduction to modern techniques in cell
biology, including advanced optical
microscopy, DNA extraction and analysis,
protein electrophoresis and western blotting,
cell homogenization and fractionation, and
cell culture. These techniques are used to
investigate cell motility, membrane structure
and permeability, mitochondrial respiration,
DNA replication, the cell cycle, and cell
adhesion. One laboratory period per week;
additional time as required. Prerequisite or
corequisite: A Bio 301 or 304.
A Bio 303 (formerly A Bio 403) Developmental Biology (3)
The development of form and function in
animals with emphasis on molecular analyses
of organismal and cellular events underlying
fertilization, early development,
morphogenesis and growth. Prerequisite(s):
A Bio 212.
A Bio 305 Developmental Biology Laboratory (2)
This laboratory course examines the
mechanisms of animal and plant development at
the molecular and cellular level by modern
and classical techniques. Topics include
gametogenesis, fertilization, early and later
development, cell division and morphogenesis.
One laboratory period per week; additional
time as required. Prerequisite or
corequisite(s): A Bio 303.
A Bio 308 Parasitic Diseases and Human Welfare (3)
Ecological, medical, and social
interrelationships of selected parasitic
diseases of people and domestic animals in
temperate, semi-tropical, and tropical
climates; role of wild animals as reservoirs
or vectors of parasitic diseases in humans.
Prerequisite(s): 10 credits of biology or
permission of instructor.
A Bio 311N (= A Gog 310N and U Uni 310N) World Food Crisis (3)
General Education: CHP & NS
Interdisciplinary approach to understanding
world food problems through analyses of
social, political, economic, nutritional,
agricultural, and environmental aspects of
world hunger. Faculty from several
departments in the sciences, humanities, and
social and behavioral sciences present views
from various disciplines. Does not yield
credit toward the major in biology. Only one
of A Bio 311N & U Uni 310N may be taken for
credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior
class standing, or permission of instructor.
A Bio 312 Molecular Biology (3)
Mechanisms of gene expression and regulation
will be studied, using examples from bacteria
and eukaryotes. Discussion will include
experimental approaches to gene cloning and
sequencing, analysis of DNA-protein
interactions, and structure and function of
RNA. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212; prerequisite
or corequisite: A Bio 365 or A Chm 342.
A Bio 313 Laboratory in Molecular Biology (2)
Experiments in the modern techniques of
recombinant molecular biology will be
performed. These may include restriction
mapping of plasmids, gene cloning, DNA
blotting, DNA sequence analysis, plasmid
constructions, and gene expression studies.
One laboratory per week, plus additional
flexible time as required. Prerequisite:
A Bio 212. Prerequisite or corequisite(s):
A Bio 312.
A Bio 314 General Bacteriology (3)
Introduction to the morphology, physiology,
genetics, and metabolism of bacteria,
including the roles of bacteria in disease
and in various natural habitats; bacterial
viruses and bacterial plasmids.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212, or both A Bio
111N and 205; and A Chm 342 or A Bio
365.Laboratory techniques that deal with the
culture and study of bacteria, the dynamics
of bacterial growth, and the physiological
basis of bacterial identification. One
laboratory per week; additional flexible time
as required. Prerequisite or corequisite:
A Bio314.
A Bio 315 General Bacteriology Laboratory (2)
Laboratory techniques that deal with the
culture and study of bacteria, the dynamics
of bacterial growth, and the physiological
basis of bacterial identification. One
laboratory per week; additional flexible time
as required. Prerequisite or corequisite:
A Bio314.
A Bio 316 Biogeography (3)
Origin and differentiation of floras and
faunas; biotic regions of the world,
principles of distribution; migration,
adaptation, evolution, and extinction. Three
class periods each week. Prerequisite(s):
A Bio 111N, or A Bio 102N.
A Bio 317 Comparative Animal Physiology (3)
The physiological mechanisms employed by
animals in meeting the stresses imposed by
different environments. Considers strategies
of adaptive radiation including toleration,
avoidance, and regulation from an
evolutionary perspective. Prerequisite(s):
A Bio 111N and junior status. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 319Z Field Biology (3)
General Education: WI
Introduction to those aspects of biology
which are based on field study; local flora
and fauna from an ecological viewpoint;
selected field and laboratory techniques and
related literature. Students are required to
complete an independent field investigation.
Two class periods, one laboratory period each
week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111N, or A Bio
102N. Not open to freshmen.
A Bio 320 Ecology (3)
Introduction to the study of organisms,
populations, and communities in relation to
their environments. Stresses an integrated
approach at all levels of biological
organization. Topics include: the niche
concept, species diversity, nutrient cycling,
energy flow, population dynamics and control,
biological rhythms, and other physiological
mechanisms influenced by the environment.
Three class periods each week.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111N.
A Bio 323 Plant Physiology (3)
Basic course in plant physiology, including
biochemical, genetic and developmental
aspects of the plant life cycle. Topics
include: photosynthesis, respiration,
metabolism, water relations, plant hormones,
embryogenesis and early development,
flowering, stress physiology, response to
pathogens and plant genetic engineering.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212.
A Bio 324 Invertebrate Zoology (4)
Functional morphology and adaptive radiation
of invertebrates, with consideration of those
aspects of fine structure, developmental
biology, behavior, and comparative physiology
particularly characteristic of invertebrate
organisms. Laboratory work emphasizes living
marine forms. Three class periods, one
laboratory period each week. Prerequisite(s):
12 credits of biology or permission of
instructor. Not open to freshmen. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 325 Comparative Anatomy of Chordates (4)
Comparative study of embryonic development,
functional morphology, adaptive radiation,
and evolution of chordates. Three class
periods, one laboratory period each week.
Prerequisite(s): 12 credits of biology or
permission of instructor. Not open to
freshmen.
A Bio 326 Environmental Microbiology Lab (2)
Microorganisms are an essential part of many
environments. This course explores the role
of microbes in natural and human-impacted
systems; topics include nutrient cycling,
waste degradation, bioremediation, waterborne
disease, and pollution control. Some informal
lectures and current events discussions are
incorporated into laboratory exercises.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 314 or equivalent. May
not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 335 Immunology (3)
The structure and function of the antibody
molecule and of reactions between antigen and
antibody. Also covers cellular interactions
in the immune response as well as both the
beneficial and harmful consequences of the
response. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212;
prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): A Chm 342
or A Bio 365.
A Bio 336Z (formerly A Bio 336) Laboratory in Immunology (2)
General Education: WI
Modern laboratory techniques will be
performed to study the cellular and humoral
components of the immune system; immune cells
and cell markers, immunoglobulin purification
and characterization, antibody and antigen
identification assays including
immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis,
and enzyme-based immunoassays (ELISA). One
laboratory per week, plus additional flexible
time as required. The former A Bio 336 does
not meet the writing intensive requirement.
Only one of A Bio 336 and 336Z may be taken
for credit. Prerequisite(s) or
corequisite(s): A Bio 335.
A Bio 341 Neurobiology (3)
The structure and function of the nervous
system examined at the cellular level. Topics
include: organization of nervous systems;
morphology and physiology of nerve cells;
synaptic transmission; sensory processing;
cellular circuitry underlying "simple"
behaviors; cellular basis of learning; and
the development of neuronal connections.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111N; prerequisite(s)
or corequisite(s): A Phy 108N.
A Bio 342 Neurobiology Laboratory (2)
Experimental analyses of the morphology and
electrophysiology of nerve cells. Experiments
include the visualization of individual nerve
cells through selective staining, stimulation
and recording of electrical potentials in
nerve cells; and an examination of synaptic
transmission. Experiments will be performed
on invertebrate nervous systems. One
laboratory period each week. Prerequisite(s)
or corequisite(s): A Bio 341.
A Bio 365 (= A Chm 342) Biological Chemistry (3)
The chemistry and biochemical
interrelationship of carbohydrates, lipids,
proteins, and nucleic acids; enzyme catalysis
and introduction to metabolism. Only one of
A Bio 365 & A Chm 342 may be taken for
credit. Prerequisite(s): A Chm 215 or 216B.
A Bio 366 Biological Chemistry II (3)
Control and regulation of metabolic pathways,
expression and transmission of genetic
information, and a variety of selected
current topics. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 365.
A Bio 367 Biochemistry Laboratory (2)
This laboratory course is designed to provide
basic training in various procedures used in
present day biochemical research. These will
include methods for protein purification,
enzyme kinetics, peptide sequencing, and
fractionation of intracellular components. In
addition, biochemical processes such as
glucose metabolism and photosynthesis will be
studied. One laboratory period each week.
Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): A Bio 365
or equivalent and permission of instructor.
A Bio 369 Introduction to Computer Applications in Molecular Biology (3)
Basic computer skills for molecular
biologists, including DNA sequence
manipulation, genetic linkage mapping,
database searching, RNA folding, protein
structure, and phylogenetic tree building.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212 and permission of
instructor. May not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 389Z Writing in Biology (1)
General Education: WI
Students who are concurrently registered in,
or have previously taken, any 300- or 400-level
biology course which yields credit
toward the major, may with permission of the
instructor of that course, enroll in A Bio
389Z and fulfill a writing intensive version
of that other course. One additional meeting
per week in which writing techniques and
experiences are stressed is required. Written
work that will be used for credit in A Bio
389Z must be in addition to any writings
required for the companion course.
Prerequisite(s) or corequisite(s): a
companion biology course at the 300 or 400
level. S/U graded.
A Bio 399 Supervised Research for Juniors (1-3)
Individual, independent research on selected
topics in biology. Critical analysis of
selected research papers. Junior majors in
the department of biological sciences apply
for this course through the office of the
department chair. A copy of the final written
report of each semester's work, preferably
typewritten and in journal format, is kept on
permanent file in the department. May be
taken either semester. A maximum of 6 credits
may be earned in A Bio 399 and 399Z.
A Bio 399Z Supervised Research for Juniors (2-3)
General Education: WI
Writing intensive version of A Bio 399 open
to junior majors in biology who have
completed a minimum of one previous semester
in A Bio 399 for at least two credits.
Requires permission of the department chair.
A maximum of 6 credits may be earned in A Bio
399 and 399Z. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 399.
A Bio 402 Evolution (3)
Origins of life-mechanisms and processes of
organic evolution stressing evidence from
population genetics, systematics,
paleontology, and comparative physiology;
biochemistry; the evolution of humans and
human culture. Three class periods each week.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 406 Vertebrate Histology (4)
Microanatomy and function of animal cells,
tissues and major vertebrate organs,
excluding the brain. Practical work with
bright-field microscopy and preparation of
formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, sectioned
and stained tissues. Three class periods, one
laboratory period each week. Extra time may
be needed to complete individual projects.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212; A Bio 325 and/or
A Bio 410 recommended but not required. May
not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 407 Parasitology (4)
Biology of host-parasite systems: factors
influencing evolution, distribution, and host
specificity of animal parasites. Host-
parasite relationships as illustrated by
physiological and morphological adaptations,
ecology, and life cycles of selected
protozoan, helminth, and arthropod parasites.
Two class periods, one discussion period, one
laboratory period each week. Prerequisite(s):
14 credits in biology.
A Bio 408 Parasitology Update (2)
Recent research in parasitic diseases and
human welfare and general parasitology as
reflected in current journals. Seminar format
with emphasis on student presentations and
discussion. Of particular value to students
anticipating graduate school, a health-
related job, or the medical profession.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 308 or 407, or
equivalent, or permission of instructor. S/U
graded.
A Bio 410 Human Physiology (3)
The functions of organ systems and their
contributions to the functions of the human
body as a whole. Topics to include: nervous,
cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal
systems and energy metabolism and temperature
regulation. Two 1 1/2-hour lecture periods
each week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111N and
A Chm 121N.
A Bio 411Z Human Physiology Laboratory (2)
General Education: WI
Experimental investigations in systemic
physiology with emphasis on membrane
transport, nerve excitability, muscle
contraction, sensory mechanisms, cardiac
activity, and special problems. Three hour
laboratory and one hour discussion per week.
Emphasis will be placed on writing of
scientific laboratory reports. The former
A Bio 411 does not yield writing intensive
credit. Corequisite(s): A Bio 410.
A Bio 412 Biological Movement (3)
Biological movements at the level of
molecules, organelles, cells, and tissues
examined in terms of their contractile and/or
other basis. Emphasizes the role of molecular
assembly, reorganization and interaction in
producing movement, and intrinsic and
extrinsic control of movement. Three class
periods each week. Prerequisite(s): a course
in biochemistry. May not be offered during
1999-2000.
A Bio 415Z (formerly A Bio 415) Vertebrate Biology (4)
General Education: WI
Characteristics, systematics, distribution,
adaptation, behavior, population dynamics,
and ecology of the vertebrates. Appropriate
field and laboratory techniques. Three class
periods, one laboratory period each week.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 319Z or 320. May not
be offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 419 (= A Ant 412) Human Population Genetics (3)
Population genetics theory is the foundation
of evolutionary biology and contributes
heavily to modern ideas in ecology,
systematics, and agriculture. This course is
an introduction to that theory with special
emphasis on evolution. Only one of A Ant 412
& A Bio 419 may be taken for credit.
Prerequisite(s): A Ant 102, A Bio 212 or 205;
or permission of instructor. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 420 Plant and Animal Morphogenesis (3)
Cellular basis and control of morphogenesis
during development of the embryo in animals
and plants, and in vegetative and
reproductive growth from plant meristems.
Topics examined in terms of cell division,
motility and adhesion, cellular
rearrangements, matrices produced by cells,
hormonal factors, and gene expression.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 212. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 422 (formerly A Bio 304) Biological Architecture (3)
An analysis of the basic physical and
architectural principles underlying the
design of biological organisms. Topics to be
covered include architecture and materials of
skeletons, biological design for swimming and
flight, structural colors, patterns of
branching and fractal growth. Three lectures
per week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 110F or
110N, 6 credits of upper level biology or
permission of instructor.
A Bio 432 Animal Behavior (3)
The organization, causation, development, and
evolution of behavior in vertebrates and
invertebrates. Emphasizes a synthesis of
information from both field and laboratory.
Topics include stimuli and responsiveness,
motivation, conflict behavior, social
behavior with emphasis on ecological aspects,
orientation and navigation, rhythmicity,
learning, and the neural organization
responsible for behavior. Three class periods
each week. Prerequisite(s): 15 credits in
biology.
A Bio 436 Sensory Ecology and Biophysics of Behavior (3)
An examination of the interface and transfer
of information between organisms and
environment. Topics covered will include (1)
informational needs of organisms, (2)
strategies of receptor design and behavioral
adaptations to meet these needs, and (3) the
influence of size and scale (from microbes to
larger vertebrates) on the perceived
environment and on the design of sense organs
for this perception. Designed to be of
interest to biological-psychology and physics
students as well as biology majors.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 111N and at least one
of the following: A Bio 422, A Bio 460, A Phy
105, A Psy 214, A Psy 382 or consent of
instructor. May not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 441 Molecular Neurobiology (3)
The molecular biology of learning, memory,
neural development and neurological disease.
The course will relate the structure and
function of receptors, second messangers,
cytoskeletal proteins, transcription factors
and gene structure to their roles in the
nervous system. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 312 or
341 or 301.
A Bio 450 Biodiversity (3)
Lectures, readings, discussions, and
students' presentations examine theoretical
and empirical studies of the extent and
distribution of faunal and floral diversity;
of patterns of relative abundance of species
in major ecosystems; and of the significance
of diversity loss. Approaches to preserve,
restore, and manage ecosystem structure and
function will be examined. Prerequisite(s):
Ecology or Field Biology.
A Bio 455 Plant Ecology (4)
In lectures, laboratories, field trips, class
experiments, and demonstrations, we will
examine current and historic issues in plant
ecology. Topics will include community and
population dynamic models, evolutionary
aspects of life history traits, physiological
responses to environmental stresses,
interactions with animal mutualists and
antagonists, and the role of vegetation in
ecosystem processes. Lecture plus lab,
including two or three weekend field trips.
Prerequisite(s): A Bio 319, 319Z, or A Bio
320 or permission of instructor. May not be
offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 460 Neural Basis of Behavior (3)
Critical examination of the
interrelationships of complex behavior with
the development, structure, and function of
the central nervous system in higher
vertebrates. Two 1 1/2-hour lecture periods
each week. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior
class standing and permission of instructor.
May not be offered during 1999-2000.
A Bio 468 Behavioral Ecology (3)
Recent theoretical models of the evolution of
behavior by natural selection applied to
animals, especially to social insects, birds,
and mammals. Includes sociobiology and
optimal foraging. Three class periods each
week. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 320 (A Bio 402
and 432 recommended).May not be offered
during 1999-2000.
A Bio 497 Topics in Biology (1-3)
Issues from the current literature in
selected areas of biology. Particular areas
of study to be announced each semester.
Yields credit toward the major in biological
sciences. May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class
standing, and permission of instructor.
A Bio 498 Topics in Biology, with Laboratory (1-3)
Issues in selected areas of biology.
Particular areas of study to be announced
each semester. Yields laboratory credit
toward the major in biological sciences. May
be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s):
junior or senior class standing, and
permission of instructor.
A Bio 499 Supervised Research for Seniors (1-4)
Individual, independent research on selected
topics in biology. Critical analysis of
selected papers. Senior majors in this
department apply for this course through the
office of the department chair. A copy of the
final written report of each semester's work,
preferably typewritten and in journal format,
is kept on permanent file in the department.
May be taken either semester. A maximum of 8
credits may be earned in A Bio 499 and 499Z.
A Bio 499Z Supervised Research for Seniors (2-4)
General Education: WI
Writing intensive version of A Bio 499 open
to senior majors in biology who have
completed a minimum of one previous semester
in A Bio 399 or 499 for at least two credits.
Requires permission of the department chair.
A maximum of 8 credits may be earned in A Bio
499 and 499Z. Prerequisite(s): A Bio 399 or 499.
