BIOLOGY COURSES

Note: Listed here are recently offered courses and ones anticipated for the coming two years. Faculty responsibilities may change during this period. To help you make informed selections, courses are indicated as small (<20), medium (20-60), or large (>60) based on recent past enrollment. The semester in which a course is normally offered is indicated. If the year is specified, the course is being planned for the semester indicated, but it is uncertain when that course will be offered again. Otherwise, courses are offered every year or every other year as specified.

Elective Courses (Not for Biology-Major Credit)

These courses do not count toward the biology major but may be of interest to majors and prospective majors as elective credit toward graduation, except for courses specifically restricted to nonmajors (Bio 280, Bio 303A).

Biol 112. Introduction to Problem-Based Learning in Biology (fall)
Small groups of students all take responsibility for their own active learning in their team with guidance from an instructor. Each group in rotation will consider four problems of biological importance such as rainforest destruction, coral reefs, laboratory diagnoses, sleep, high altitude, deafness, infertility, modern epidemics, clinical cases, genetic engineering, and cloned animals. They will find the background information by library searches and integrate this knowledge in group discussions. Intended for but not limited to prospective biology majors. For freshmen only. Prerequisite: high school biology, preferably an AP class. Small groups. Credit 3 units. T. Fleming (Surgery, WUMS) and staff

Biol 181. Freshman Seminar in Biology (fall)
A lecture course intended for first-year students, which focuses on the practice and culture of biological research. Active researchers describe the biological context of their research, the specific questions they have formulated, the means by which they pursue the answers, and their data and conclusions. The focus is on process: how biologists pursue their profession, what happens in a research setting. Additional topics of contemporary and clinical interest are often included. Must be taken Credit/No Credit. Large class. Credit 1 unit. P. Stein

Biol 1810. Freshman Seminar in Imaging Sciences  (fall)
An introduction to the breadth and depth of imaging sciences across Arts & Sciences, Medicine and Engineering, on topics from radiology to cell biology. Seminars are presented by experts in these fields to acquaint students with advances in imaging sciences and research opportunities in these areas. No prerequisites, primarily for freshman, but open to all students. Credit 1 unit. R. Dixit

Biol 191. Phage Hunters (fall) Same as Focus 1910
An introduction to laboratory and field research in biology for first- and second-year students. Students work under the supervision of a sponsor in a setting of established, ongoing research. Prerequisites: less than 60 units completed, permission of sponsor and the department. Credit/No Credit only. Credit 3 units. K. Miller A research-based laboratory class for freshmen. Students join a national experiment organized by HHMI, with the goal of isolating and characterizing bacteriophage viruses found in the soil outside Rebstock Hall. Laboratory work includes isolation and purification of your own phage, DNA isolation and restriction mapping, and EM characterization of your phage. One WU phage is selected for genome sequencing over winter break. Prereqs: High school courses in biology, chemistry and physics, at the AP or International Baccalaureate level; permission of the instructor. Limited to 20 students. One hour lecture, one hour discussion, and 3 hrs lab per week. Prerequisite: admission to the FOCUS program.  Credit 3 units.  S. Elgin, P. Levin, K. Hafer

Bio 192. Phage Bioinformatics (spring) Same as Focus 1920
A research-based laboratory class for freshmen. Students join a national experiment organized by HHMI, with the goal of genomic characterization of a local phage. Laboratory work focuses on learning computer-based tools for genome analysis followed by annotation and comparative analysis of the genome of the WU phage, which was isolated fall semester and sequenced over winter break. Prerequisites: High school courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, at least one at the AP or International Baccalaureate level; permission of the instructor. Limited to 20 students; preference given to those completing Bio 191, Phage Hunters. One hour lecture, one hour discussion, and 3 hrs lab per week. Prerequisite: admission to the FOCUS program. Credit 3 units. K. Hafer, S. Elgin, C. Shaffer (DNA sequencing facility).

Biol 200. Introduction to Research (spring/fall)
An introduction to laboratory and field research in biology for first- and second-year students.  Students work under the supervision of a sponsor in a setting of established, ongoing research.  Prerequisites:  less than 60 units completed, permission of sponsor and the department.  Credit/No Credit only.  Credit 3 units.  P. Stein

Biol 2431. Focus: Missouri’s Natural Heritage, Part 1 (fall)
Same as Focus 2431
Missouri´s Natural Heritage is a multidisciplinary two-semester Freshman Focus course. The first semester of the sequence will focus on Missouri geology, climate, archaeology, and native megafauna. This will provide a foundation on which to examine the ecology, restoration, and management of our diverse habitats (prairie, forest, glade, and stream) and the biology of our diverse plant and animal wildlife (arthropods, mollusks, fish, salamanders, lizards, birds, and mammals) in the second semester. We will also introduce basic concepts in biodiversity and resource management with attention to resolution of conflicts of interest. In addition to weekly lecture and discussion, students in this class will visit sites across the state during 3 weekend camping trips and a longer camping trip during winter break. Attendance on field trips is an essential component of the course and grade. Lab fee of $480 covers transportation and meals for all field trips.  Credit 3 units.  S. Braude

Biol 265. Experience in the Life Sciences (spring/fall)
Provides an opportunity to earn credit for nonclassroom learning in the life sciences. A wide variety of activities qualify. For example, students might accompany a physician on rounds and prepare a paper on a specific organ system or disease, participate in a field or ecological study and report on the findings, help create a summer biology curriculum for children and report on its effectiveness, etc. Participants must arrange to work with a supervisor with whom they will meet on a regular basis. See http://www.nslc.wustl.edu/courses/BIO265/bio265.html for details. Credit/No Credit only. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted. Forms are available in 105 Plant Growth. Credit variable, maximum 2 units. J. Downey (Pediatrics, WUMS)

Biol 265 Experience in the Life Sciences- Section 1 (spring/fall)
Provides an opportunity to earn credit for nonclassroom learning in the life sciences. A wide variety of activities qualify. For example, students might accompany a physician on rounds and prepare a paper on a specific organ system or disease, participate in a field or ecological study and report on the findings, help create a summer biology curriculum for children and report on its effectiveness, etc. Participants must arrange to work with a supervisor with whom they will meet on a regular basis. Credit/No Credit only. Students are registered by the department after approval is granted. Forms are available in 105 Plant Growth. Credit variable, maximum 2 units. J. Downey (Pediatrics, WUMS)

Biol 265 Experience in the Life Sciences- Section 3 (spring/fall)
Conduct a clinical research project with an emergency-medical faculty member. Activities may include screening/enrolling patients, chart reviews, collecting and analyzing data, and clinical shadowing time. Goals include submitting an abstract for a national research meeting and coauthoring a manuscript for publication. Prerequisite: Biol 2652 or Biol 2653. Does not count toward the major. Credit: 1.5 units per semester, contingent upon completion of two semesters. Credit/No Credit only. Michael E. Mullins (WUMS)

Biol 2651 Med Prep I: Experience in the Life Sciences (fall, spring, summer)
MedPrep I (Bio 2651) is a unique lecture series taught by a physician, medical school coursemaster and member of the Committee on Admissions for the School of Medicine. Through a weekly 2-hour lecture, this course gives students accurate, honest, and detailed information regarding every step of the application and admissions process to medical school, the entire educational process including medical school and residency training and pros and cons of life of a physician. MedPrep I is particularly useful for freshman and sophomores in that it reviews the common pitfalls encountered by unsuccessful applicants to medical school and outlines the steps to take in each year of college to be successful in the application process. There is no outside course work and no exams. Attendance at all classes is required. A $10 course fee applies. Registration for Bio 2651 is done through WebStac. For more information about MedPrep I, see the website at medprep.wustl.edu.   G. Polites (WUMS)

Biol 2652 Pediatric Emergency Medicine Research Associates Program - Experiences in Life Sciences (fall, spring, summer)
The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Research Associates Program (PEMRAP) offers undergraduate pre-medical students the opportunity to participate in clinical, patient-oriented research projects in a hospital setting.  Students will have the opportunity to work in the St. Louis Children's Hospital Emergency Department, a nationally recognized pediatric emergency medicine and trauma care facility.  A number of research projects are currently underway in various areas of pediatric emergency medicine.  Topic areas include bronchiolitis, fluid management in dehydration, procedural pain and sedation, cervical spine trauma, head injury, wound care, and fracture healing. Research Associates will be expected to work two 4-hour shifts per week and to attend a weekly 2-hour meeting on Tuesdays from 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm at St. Louis Children's Hospital.  Weekly meeting include lectures given by Emergency Department faculty members.  This program offers students the unique opportunity to be a vital part of the ED research team.  In addition, the RA's experience in the ED may help him/her determine if medicine is truly the career path he/she wishes to choose.  Prerequisite: Approval of Instructor.  Grading by Credit/No Credit option only.  Credit 4 units.  J. Luhrmann, K. Williams (WUMS)

Biol 2654. Med Prep II - Experience in Life Sciences (fall, spring, summer)
MedPrep II (Bio 2654) offers students a real world, behind-the-scenes experience of a life in medicine. For three hours every other week, students shadow physicians in the Charles F. Knight Emergency and Trauma Center of Barnes-Jewish Hospital, the main teaching hospital of the Washington University School of Medicine. A one-hour class is also held every other Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 on the Danforth campus focusing on the clinical experiences of the students. Attendance at class sessions is optional but strongly encouraged, except for the first two class sessions where attendance is absolutely required - no exceptions. Because of the orientation material covered, students who are not present at the first two class sessions may not take this course, regardless of whether they have completed the other registration requirements. Special accommodations for students who cannot make the first two classes will not be made. There is no outside course work and no exams. A $25 course fee as well as HIPAA training and PPD testing are required. For more information and to register for this course, please see the MedPrep website at medprep.wustl.edu. Unlike MedPrep I (Bio 2651), registration is NOT through WebStac. Successful completion of Bio 2651, and sophomore standing or above is required to take Bio 2654.. G. Polites (WUMS)

Biol 2950. Introduction to Environmental Biology (fall) This course introduces students to our major environmental problems, and gives examples about how research in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Math is necessary to solve these problems. Large Class. Medium-size class. Credit 3 units. T. Knight, E. Pardini (Tyson Research Center) (required course for the Environmental Biology Major)

Biol 2962.        Collaborative Phage Bioinformatics (spring)
A research-based laboratory for those enrolled in Bio 2960, this class provides an opportunity to join a research team with the goal of genomic characterization of a locally isolated phage (a virus that infects a bacterial host).  Similar to Bio 192, but using a condensed format and a larger team to tackle each phage.  Lab work focuses on learning computer-based tools for genome analysis, followed by careful annotation of several genes from your phage and in-depth investigation of one gene.  Requires concurrent enrollment in Bio 2960 Principles of Biology I; not open to students enrolled in Bio 192.  One 2-hr pre-class online review/preparation session, nine 2-hr laboratory sessions, and a final poster presentation.  (Lab does not meet in weeks with a scheduled Bio 2960 midterm.)  May be taken for a letter grade or Credit/No Credit.  Credit 1 unit.  S. Elgin, K. Hafer, C. Shaffer

Biol 307A. Human Variation (spring) Same as L48 Anthro 307A.
A survey of human biological diversity, considering its adaptive and taxonomic significance from the perspective of origins and distribution of traits and adaptation. Does not count toward upper-division credits required for the major or minor. Medium-size class. Credit 3 units. E. Trinkaus (Anthropology)

Bio 3184: Topics in American Literature: Ascendancy of Biology (spring) Same as L14 Elit 423.
Increasingly, over the past several decades post-Kantian divisions among areas of inquiry have been challenged, both by figures working within the sciences (Wilson's 'consilience,' Gould's scientific humanism, Zeki's 'inner vision') and in science studies (Stengers' 'cosmopolitics,' Latour's 'sociology of associations,' Haraway's 'situated knowledges'). The various approaches suggested here are just the tip of the iceberg. Whereas a century ago the physical sciences were clearly dominant, the early twenty-first century is marked by an ascendancy of the biological sciences. In this team-taught seminar, we will investigate relations between these two shifts in disciplinary formation as well as ways they have registered in scientific fictions and poetries by Merrill, Kenney and Powers, among others. Several authors of important texts which address these concerns, including Donna Haraway, will visit the class and participate in an accompanying public lecture series. Prerequisite: junior or senior standing. Small Class. Credit 3 units. G. Allen and S. Meyer (English)

Bio 374. Drugs, Brain and Behavior (fall) Same as L33 Psych 374.
This course reviews information pertaining both to medications used to treat psychiatric disorders and to psychoactive drugs of abuse. By learning principles of pharmacology and mechanisms of action of these agents, students develop an enhanced knowledge of the brain mechanisms underlying abnormal human behavior. Enrollment limited to 40. Prerequisite: Psych 354 or 3401 or 344. Medium-size class. Credit 3 units. E. Rubin (Psychiatry, WUMS).

Bio 393. Skills in Environmental Biology (spring) Same as L82 EnSt 393.
This course will provide students with an interest in research in environmental biology a broad overview of the skills and tools needed for a successful career. Topics covered will include: (1) developing ideas/approaches for research projects, (2) experimental design and analyses, (3) using the primary literature effectively, (4) writing successful small grant and fellowship proposals, (5) writing/reporting results. In addition, students will learn other important field biology skills, including a variety of field methods, as well as coping with rough field conditions. Some Saturday and night-time field trips required. Grading will be based primarily on class participation and take -home assignments. Prerequisite: permission of Professor Pardini and at least one of the following courses: EnSt 295, EnSt 370, EnSt 373, Biol 3501, Biol 372, Biol 381, Bio 4170, Biol 419, Biol 4193. Does not count toward upper-division credits required for the major or minor. Small class. Credit 2 units. E. Pardini (Tyson Research Center).

Bio 4213. Plants and the American People: Past and Present (spring) Same as L48 Anthro 393.
This interdisciplinary course examines the relationship between plants and the American people. Topics include the natural diversity of plants used by Native Americans for food, fiber, and medicine; the significance of plants in the ´Columbian Exchange´ for the history of the U.S. and the economies of the Old World; Native American and Euro-American farming practices; modern agri-business including transgenic crops; and the modern conservation movement in the U.S. Several optional Saturday field trips are planned. Prerequisite: Junior standing or above. Small class. Credit 3 units. B. Schaal, G. Fritz (Anthropology).

Courses for Biology-Major Credit

Bio 2960. Principles of Biology I (spring, summer)
An introduction to biological molecules and biochemical strategies employed by the three domains of life. The flow of genetic information within cells is discussed in the context of cellular structure, organization, and function. Investigation and manipulation of genetic information by molecular genetic technologies, such as recombinant DNA, forms the final phase of the course. Weekly labs reinforce concepts from lecture, and explore common laboratory techniques and computer-based resources. Prerequisite: Chem 111 and Chem 112 (concurrently). Three hours of lecture and 2 hours of lab per week. Credit 4 units. B. Kunkel and J. Majors (Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, WUMS), K.Hafer (summer: K. Hafer, J. Majors)

Bio 2970. Principles of Biology II (fall, summer)
A broad overview of genetics, including Mendelian assortment, linkage, chromosomal aberrations, variations in chromosome number, mutation, developmental genetics, quantitative genetics, population genetics, mechanisms of evolution, and phylogenetics. Three lectures and one laboratory period a week. Does not count toward the laboratory requirement of the biology major. Students must sign up for a lab during preregistration. Prerequisite: Biol 2960, or permission of instructor. Large class and small lab sections. Credit 4 units. I. Duncan, A. Larson, K.Hafer

Biol 3041.       Plant Biology and Genetic Engineering (spring)
A 4 credit lecture course that provides an introduction to plant development, genetics, physiology and biochemistry with emphasis on processes that can be manipulated or better understood through genetic engineering.  The course is divided into 3 sections. The first section of the course discusses basic plant biology, development and genetics. The second part of the course emphasizes gene structure, expression, and cloning as well as methods for introducing foreign DNA into plant cells and regenerating fertile plants in tissue culture.  During the third part of the course we discuss a variety of examples of genetically engineered traits, including: herbicide resistance;  fruit ripening; pathogen and/or insect resistance; the use of plants for production of industrial and pharmaceutical compounds. Friday discussion sections focus on critical reading of the primary literature related to the material covered in lecture.  Prereqs: Bio 2960 and Bio 2970.  Small class.  Credit 4 units. E. Haswell

Biol 3058. Physiological Control Systems (spring)
Systems physiology with emphasis on human physiology.  Two hours of lectures per week.  Prereqs: Bio 2960 and Chem 112A. Not available to students who have credit for Bio 3050 or 3059.  Large class.  Credit 2 units. P. Stein

Biol 3110. Vertebrate Structure Laboratory (fall)
A lecture/laboratory course designed to provide an integrative framework for how vertebrate form and function evolved.  The pre-lab lectures will emphasize development and the relationship between the structural and functional design of organ systems, the importance of these relationships in maintaining homeostasis while providing opportunity for adaptation and examples of how vertebrate organ systems communicate to accomplish functional and physiological integration.  l hr lecture plus 5 hrs lab each week.  Prerequisite: Bio 2970.  Large lecture and small sections.  Credit 3 units.  P. Osdoby

Bio 3151. Endocrinology (spring)
An overview of mammalian endocrine systems with an emphasis on human physiology and development. The interplay between systemic, local cell, and tissue interactions as well as the cell and molecular events associated with hormone action are discussed. Examples of endocrine evolution and pathological conditions associated with endocrine imbalances also are included. Prerequisite: Biol 2970. Medium-size class. Credit 3 units. P. Osdoby

Biol 3182. History of the Life Sciences in the Twentieth Century (spring)
This course explores the vast changes that the life sciences underwent between 1890 and 2000, from a largely descriptive and qualitative, to a highly experimental and quantitative science. Topics include the rejection of Haeckelian morphology, the rise of experimental embryology, the rediscovery of Mendel and development of the Mendelian-chromosome theory, the new "ecology" of the Chicago school, the introduction of feedback and control systems in physiology, the synthesis of Mendelism and Darwinism, the rise of biochemistry and molecular biology, and the genomic revolution. In each topic biological ideas are placed in their historical and social contexts. Prerequisites: At least a high-school course in biology and/or permission of the instructor. Medium-size class. Credit 3 units. G. Allen

Bio 3183. A History of Genetics in the Twentieth Century(fall, intermittent)
After a brief survey of pre-twentieth-century theories of heredity, this course examines the work of Gregor Mendel and its rediscovery in 1900, and its expansion as an interfield theory in combination with the chromosome theory, pioneered beginning in 1910 by T.H. Morgan at Columbia and R.A. Emerson at Cornell, and led to the expansion of classical genetics up to World War II. The beginnings of biochemical and molecular genetics in the1920s and 1930s developed rapidly after the war with the double-helix theory of DNA and the rise of molecular genetics. The course ends with examination of the Human Genome Project (Initiative) and the ramifications of genetic biotechnology. Throughout, emphasis is placed not only on the technical and theoretical developments comprising genetics as an epistemic field, but also on the economic, social, political and philosophical interconnections between genetics and society. Agriculture, medicine and the ideology of social control (including such movements as eugenics and Nazi race hygiene) both influenced, and were influenced by genetics, and played an integral part in the construction of the science itself. Readings are drawn from the primary and secondary literature. There will be a mid-term, final and periodic student reports. Prerequisites: Biol 2960 and Biol 2970. Small class. Credit 3 units. G. Allen

Bio 328. Principles in Human Physiology (spring)
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the function, regulation, and integration of the major organ systems of the body. Course content will include basic cellular function, control of neural and hormonal homeostatic mechanisms, and study of the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, musculoskeletal, nervous, endocrine, and reproductive organ systems. Prerequisite: Biol 2970 or Biol 3058. Large class. Credit 4 units. R. Clark (Physical Therapy Program)

Biol 334.         Cell Biology (spring)
Eukaryotic cell structure and function viewed from the perspective of modern cell biology. Lectures cover such topics as membrane transport, endocytosis and secretion, intracellular trafficking, hormones and signal transduction, extracellular matrix and tissue formation, cytoskeleton and motility, cell cycle, apoptosis, and the cellular basis of disease.  Prerequisite:  Biol 2970.  Large class.  Credit 3 units.  R. Dixit

Bio 3371. Eukaryotic Genomes (fall, even years)
An advanced exploration of the structure and function of DNA within the eukaryotic nucleus. Lectures will cover topics of chromatin and chromosome structure, control of gene transcription, RNA processing, and DNA replication and repair. The relevance of these topics to the genetic basis of human disease will be discussed. Throughout, the experimental data that shape our current understanding will be emphasized. Course grades based on exams, problem sets and short papers. Lecture 3 hours per week plus required discussion section every other week. Prerequisites: Biol 2970, Chem 261 (may be taken concurrently). Small class. Credit 4 units. . D. Chalker

Bio 3411. Principles of the Nervous System (fall) Same as Psychology 344
The basic anatomical, physiological, and chemical organization of the nervous system; how nerve cells communicate with each other, the ionic basis of nerve signals, the function and properties of chemical agents in the nervous system, the development of neural circuitry, and how neurons interact to produce behavior. Prerequisite: Bio 2960, Bio 2970 recommended, Bio 3058 recommended, or Psych 3401 and permission of instructor. Large class. Credit 3 units. L. Salkoff and staff

Biol 3421. Introduction to Neuroethology (spring)
The neural mechanisms of animal behavior from an evolutionary and ecological perspective. Topics include: contributions of model systems to understanding fundamental properties of nervous system structure and function; electrical signals of sensory cells, neurons, and muscle; neural processing of sensory input; neural control of behavioral output; anatomy and physiology of sensory and motor systems; learning and memory; evolution of neural circuits. Prerequisite one of the following courses: Biol 3058, Biol 3411, Psych 3401. Medium-size class. Credit 3 units. B. Carlson

Biol 3422. Genes, Brains and Behavior (fall)
Genetic studies of physiological systems underlying animal behavior, including the genetic basis for normal and abnormal behaviors in animals and humans. Topics include: history of behavioral genetics; the ongoing debate about "nature vs. nurture"; contributions of genetic model systems including the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, zebrafish, the mouse Mus musculus, and other animal models; molecular mechanisms underlying the evolution of behavioral phenotypes; the emerging role of epigenetics in regulating nervous-system functions and behavior; the use of genetic and genomic analyses in studies of human behavior and psychiatric disorders. Prereq: Bio 2970. Credit 3 units. Y. Ben-Shahar

Biol 348. Emerging Infectious Diseases (spring; discontinued after 2012)
The questions of why new diseases are continuing to appear, and why old diseases are re-emerging, are addressed in detail. Particular focus is on the role played by the natural environment in these processes; how disease risk can be enhanced by environmental change is a pervasive theme. Examples include Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, E. coli 0157:H7, and Salmonella, as well as diseases caused by West Nile, hanta, and polio viruses.   Prerequisites:  Biol 2960 and Biol 2970.  Medium-size class. Credit 2 units. 

Biol 349. Microbiology (spring)
This four - credit lecture course focuses on the molecular biology of bacteria, archaea, and viruses.  Topics include: the bacterial cell cycle, gene regulation, stress response, cell-cell communication, viral and bacterial pathogenesis, microbial ecology, and metabolic diversity.  Friday tutorials  stress analysis of the primary literature with an emphasis on current research related to material covered in lecture.  Prereqs:  Biology 2960, and 2970, or permission of instructor.  Credit 4 units.  P. Levin

Biol 3491.       Microbiology Laboratory (spring)
After introducing students to the basics of bacterial growth and maintenance, this laboratory class employs genetics, cell biology, and genomics to explore various aspects of bacterial physiology, identification, gene structure and mutational analysis of physiological pathways.  One hour lecture and five hours of laboratory per week.  Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major.  Prereq: Bio 2970, Bio 349 recommended.  3 units.   P. Vigueira

Biol 3492 Laboratory Experiments with Eukaryotic Microbes (spring)
An introduction to diverse molecular and cell biology techniques used in model experimental organisms to explore fundamental biological questions. Experiments will be performed using selected fungi and protozoans commonly used in major research efforts. Emphasis is placed on choosing the appropriate organism for the question posed using the most current technologies. Prerequisites: Bio 2960 and 2970 and permission of instructor. One hour of lecture and six hours of laboratory a week. This course fulfills the laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Approval as a writing-intensive course is pending. Enrollment limited to 18. Credit 3 units. D. Chalker

Bio 3501. Evolution (fall)
A general survey of organic evolution covering both micro and macroevolution.  Topics include natural selection, adaptation, evolution of pathogens, formation of species, and phylogeny.  Prerequisite:  Biol 2970.  Medium-size class.  Credit 4 units.  K. Olsen

Biol 360. Biophysics Laboratory (fall) Same as L31 Phys 360. 
This laboratory course consists of "table-top" experiments in biological physics that are designed to introduce the student to concepts, methods, and biological model systems in biophysics.  Most experiments combine experimentation with computer simulations.  The list of available experiments includes electrophysiology, human bioelectricity, optical tweezers, ultrasonic imaging, mass spectrometer, and viscosity measurements.  Prerequisite: Phys 117A and 118A, or permission of instructor.  Small class.  Credit 3 units.  Y. Wang (Physics)

Bio 372. Behavioral Ecology (spring)
This course examines animal behavior from an evolutionary perspective and explores the relationships between animal behavior, ecology, and evolution. Topics include mating systems, sexual selection, parental care, kin selection, and cooperation. There is a strong active - learning component. Prerequisite: Biol 2970 or permission of instructor. Medium-size class. Credit 4 units. J. Strassmann

Biol 381. Introduction to Ecology (spring)
This course explores the science of ecology, including factors that control the distribution and population dynamics of organisms, structure and function of biological communities, principles that govern ecological responses to global climate change and habitat fragmentation, and experimental design. The class format includes lecture and small group activities and discussions. Assignments include reading, problem sets, and computer lab activities. Prereq: Bio 2970 or Bio 2950 or permission of instructor.  Same as L82 EnSt 381. Credit 3 units.  E. Pardini

Biol 4023. How Plants Work: Physiology, Growth and Metabolism (fall, odd years)
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of how plants grow, metabolize and respond to their environment. Topics to be covered include the conversion of light energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis and carbon fixation, nitrogen assimilation, water and mineral uptake and transport, source-sink relationships and long-distance transport of carbon and nitrogen, cell growth and expansion, hormone physiology and physiological responses to a changing environment. Prerequisite: Biol 2970 or permission of instructors. Small class. Credit 3 units. B. Kunkel

Biol 4025. Current Approaches in Plant and Microbial Research (spring, even years)
This course is designed to introduce graduate students and upper-division undergraduates to contemporary approaches and paradigms in plant and microbial biology. The course includes lectures, in-class     discussions of primary literature and hands-on exploration of computational genomic and phylogenetic tools. Evaluations include short papers, quizzes, and oral presentations. Over the semester, each student works on conceptualizing and writing a short NIH-format research proposal. Particular emphasis is given to the articulation of specific aims and the design of experiments to test these aims, using the approaches taught in class. Students provide feedback to their classmates on their oral presentations and on their specific aims in a review panel.  Prereq: Bio 2970 or permission of the instructor.  Credit 4 units.  E. Haswell

Biol 4028. From Seed to Senescence: The Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology of Plants (fall, discontinued after 2013)
This course introduces students to the unique features of plant cells, plant genomes and plant development, and examines the many significant ways in which plants differ from animals.  Major topics include how plant stem cells continuously give rise to leaves and flowers (unlike animals, where organs are pre-formed during embryogenesis), and how plants reproduce without a dedicated germline (animals set aside germ cells early in development). A number of mutants that are defective in important developmental transitions are discussed, some of which are the basis for familiar fruit and vegetable crops. Also covered are the genetic and genomic methods used to generate and to analyze plant mutants, and recent technical advances that have furthered our understanding of plant growth and development. Reading of primary literature and computer-based exploration of online genomics tools are parts of the course. Prerequisite: Bio 2970 or permission of Dr. Haswell. Small class.  Credit 3 units.  E. Haswell

Bio 4030. Biological Clocks (spring, even years)
Biological clocks are the endogenous oscillators that coordinate physiological and behavioral rhythms in nearly all organisms. This course examines how these rhythms are generated and regulated. The material will include molecular, cellular and systems physiology and the relevance of biological timing to ecology and health in everything from protozoans to plants to people. Prerequisites: Bio 2970. Medium-size class. Credit 3 units. E. Herzog

Bio 404. Laboratory of Neurophysiology (fall)
Neurophysiology is the study of living neurons. Students record electrical activity of cells to learn principles of the nervous system including sensory transduction and coding, intercellular communication and motor control. The course meets for 8 hours on Wednesdays. Students may leave the lab for up to 2 hours. Prerequisites: Biol 3411 or 3421 or Psych 4411, and permission of Jessica Ochoa. One eight-hour lab period a week. Enrollment limited to 18 students. Credit 3 units. E. Herzoz

Biol 4071. Developmental Biology (fall, odd years)
An introduction to the molecular and cell biology and biomechanics of animal development. The course is divided into thirds, which cover 1) an introduction to the major cell-cell signaling systems used during development and their study in model organisms, 2) molecular studies of early vertebrate development, and 3) application of the principles of solid mechanics to understanding events in tissue and organ morphogenesis including gastrulation, cardiac looping, and brain folding. Prereqs.: Principles of Biology II (Bio 2970); Calculus II (Math 132); (Physics 117/197). Small Class. Credit 3 units. L. A. Taber (Biomedical Engineering), K. B. Beebe (Developmental Biology, WUMS), S. K. Kornfeld (Developmental Biology, WUMS), I. Duncan, K. L. Kroll (Developmental Biology, WUMS)

Biol 4170. Population Ecology (fall)
This course examines the ecological factors that cause fluctuation and regulation of natural populations and emphasizes the utility of mathematical models to assess the dynamics of populations. The course includes lecture, discussions and computer labs using the programming language MATLAB. Emphasis is placed on principles as applied to conservation and management. Topics include assessing extinction risk of rare species, invasion dynamics of exotic species, demographic and environmental stochasticity, metapopulation dynamics, structured populations, the role of species interactions, and microevolutionary processes. Prerequisites: Calculus (Math 131 and 132), and Bio 381 or by permission of instructor.  Small class.  Credit 3 units.  T. Knight

Bio 4181. Population Genetics and Microevolution (fall)
Introduction to the basic principles of population and ecological genetics; mechanisms of microevolutionary processes; integrated ecological and genetic approach to study the adaptive nature of the evolutionary process.  Prerequisite:  Biol 2970.  Medium-size class.  Credit 3 units.  D. Queller

Bio 4182. Macroevolution (spring, even years)
An advanced introduction to the study of macroevolutionary patterns and processes with emphasis on the systematic methodology employed. Topics: theories of classification, phylogenetic reconstruction, testing of historical hypotheses, hierarchy theory, adaptation, extinction, speciation, developmental mechanisms of organismal evolution, biogeography. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Small class. Credit 3 units. A. Larson

Bio 4183. Molecular Evolution (spring, odd years)
A rigorous introduction to the study of evolution at the molecular level, focusing on intraspecific molecular evolution, including the origin, amount, distribution, and significance of genetic variation at the molecular level, and interspecific molecular evolution, including the use of molecular data in systematics, and in testing macroevolutionary hypotheses.  Prerequisite:  Biol 2970 or permission of instructor.  Small class.  Credit 3 units.  A. Larson

Biol 419. Community Ecology (spring, even years)
Community ecology is an interdisciplinary field that bridges concepts in biodiversity science, biogeography, evolution and biological conservation. This course provides an introduction to the study of pattern and process in ecological communities with an emphasis on theoretical, statistical and experimental approaches. Topics include spatial and temporal patterns of biodiversity, community processes (competition, dispersal, disturbance, island biogeography, predation, mutualism), ecosystem function, and global environmental change. The class format includes lectures, discussions, and computer labs focused on analysis, modeling and presentation of ecological data using the statistical program R. Prereq: Bio 381, Bio 2970 or permission of instructor.  Credit 3 units. J. Myers

Biol 4193. Experimental Ecology Laboratory (spring)
The goal of this course is to provide skills in the design, interpretation, and written presentation of results of ecological experiments, with emphasis on hypothesis testing, sampling methodology, and data analysis.  Students have opportunities to address a variety of ecological questions using field, greenhouse, or laboratory (microcosm) studies.  The course is divided into a 5-hour lab period (generally held at the Tyson Research Station) and a 1.5-hour lecture/discussion period held on campus.  Occasional Saturday field trips to local sites (e.g., forests, wetlands, prairies, streams) for in-depth study might be scheduled.  This is a writing intensive course and grades are based on written assignments, including final projects, and in-class participation.  This course fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major. Prereq:  Permission of instructor and at least one of the following: Bio 381, Bio 372, Bio 370, Bio 4170, Bio 419), or Bio 3501.  Credit will not be awarded for both 4191 and 4193.  Enrollment is limited to 15 students. Credit 3 units. S. Mangan

Bio 4202. Evolutionary Genetics (fall, intermittent) Same as L48 Anthro 4202.
This course examines the principles of evolutionary genetics as applied to complex characters such as morphology, behavior, life history, and disease. Mathematical models of quantitative inheritance and evolution are discussed. Special topics include kin selection, sexual dimorphism, and conservation genetics. Prerequisite: Anthro 150A or Bio 2970. Credit 3 units. Small class. J. Cheverud (Anatomy and Neurobiology, WUMS)

Biol 424. Immunology (spring)
The basic molecular and cellular aspects of the vertebrate immune system, emphasizing specificity of immune reactions, structural and genetic bases of diversity, cellular mechanisms in antigen recognition, and effector mechanisms in immunity. Other topics: regulation of immunity, allergy, autoimmunity, tissue transplantation. Prerequisites: Bio 2970 or permission of instructor, and Chem 252. Credit 4 units. Medium-size class. D. Hanson

Biol 4241. Immunology Laboratory (fall/spring)
The Immunology Laboratory introduces students to a variety of common, broadly useful immunological techniques and then allows each student to employ most of the learned techniques in addressing a current research question. Experiments employ mouse cells in vitro and emphasize quantitative analysis of the data. Prereq: Bio 424 and permission of instructor. Credit 3 units. Small-size class. D. Hanson

Bio 427. Problem-Based Learning in the Biomedical Sciences (spring)
Groups of five to eight students are presented with medical case studies that are then researched and discussed under faculty guidance. Students take major responsibility for their own learning within their teams. Prerequisite: Bio 2970, some experience in molecular biology, and permission of instructor. Small discussion groups. Credit 3 units. T. Fleming (Surgery, WUMS) and staff

Biol 4330. Electron Microscopy of Cellular Structures and Processes (spring)
This course is designed to give the student skills in using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to assess cell structure in biological samples, so that they can determine structure-function relationships by integrating biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology with ultrastructure. The course emphasizes thin section transmission electron microscopy but ancillary subjects include immunogold affinity labeling, electron tomography, negative staining, elemental analysis, and cryo-EM analysis of macromolecular complexes. The goals of the course are to provide a fundamental understanding of theory and operation of a transmission electron microscope, hands-on experience in biological specimen preparation, and competence for independent operation of the Danforth Center’s TEM. This class fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the biology major. Prerequisite: Bio 2970 and permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 6 students. Credit 4 units. H. Berg and staff (Donald Danforth Plant Sciences Center)

Biol 4342.   Research Explorations in Genomics (spring)
A collaborative laboratory investigation of a problem in genomics, involving wet-lab generation of a large data set (either genomic sequence or microarray analysis of gene expression) and computer analysis of the data. Class meets at the WU Genome Sequencing Center during the first half of the semester, and in the Biology Department the second half of the semester. Prerequisites: Biol 2970, Chem 111/112, Chem 151/152 and permission of instructor. Biol 3371/337W or Biol 437 and some familiarity with computers would be advantageous, but are not required. Combined enrollment in Biol 4342 and Biol 434W limited to 12 students. Credit 4 units. S. Elgin, E. Mardis (Genetics, WUMS), C. Shaffer (DNA Sequencing Facility)

Biol 434W.  Research Explorations in Genomics (Writing Intensive) (spring)
Course covers the same material as Biol 4342 in a writing-intensive format.  Prerequisites:  Biol 2970, Chem 111/112, Chem 151/152 and permission of instructor.  Biol 3371 or 337W or Biol 437 and some familiarity with computers would be advantageous, but are not required. Combined enrollment in Biol 4342 and Biol 434W limited to 12 students.  Credit 4 units.  S. Elgin, E. Mardis (Genetics, WUMS), C. Shaffer (DNA Sequencing Facility), S. Van Vickle-Chavez

Bio 437. Laboratory on DNA Manipulation (fall; May)
An introduction to laboratory techniques for experimental manipulation of DNA (and RNA) molecules, including construction, isolation, and analysis of plasmids, RNA, PCR products and sequencing.  A molecular cloning experiment, RNA isolation, RT-PCR, Southern analysis and plant transformation are performed as class projects.  Fulfills the laboratory requirement of the biology major.  Prerequisites:  Biol 2970, Chem 152, and permission of instructor.  One hour of lecture and eight hours of laboratory each week.  Enrollment limited to 24 students.  Credit 4 units.  R. Kranz

Biol 450. Topics in the History of Eugenics (fall) Same as L22 History 450B. 
This is a research-based seminar that explores the history of eugenics both in the United States and abroad, roughly in the period 1890-1960. The seminar begins with reading of some of the seminal works in the history of eugenics coupled with a discussion of historiographical problems associated with this topic. The second part of the seminar is devoted to reading primary sources on various topics (race-crossing, family pedigrees, inheritance of specific traits such as criminality, feeblemindedness, manic depression, pauperism, etc. The third part of the course examines the transformation of eugenics in the population control movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Students give class reports on various readings and prepare a major research paper (25-30 pages) on a topic of their choice. Emphasis is on both the biological content and social/economic/political context of eugenics work in the first half of the twentieth century.  Small Class.  Credit 3 units.  G. Allen

Biol 451. General Biochemistry (summer)
A study of structure-function relationships as applied to carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids; intermediary metabolism of principal cellular components; and general aspects of regulation.  Prereqs:  Biol 2970 and Chem 252 and permission of department.  Recommended for students who have achieved grades of B or better in the prerequisites.  Students may not receive credit for both Biol 451 and Biol 4501 (Chem 456).  Small class.  Credit 4 units.  D. Hoover (Summer School)

Biol 4520. Protein Function in Model Cellular Systems (fall)
The goal of this 3-credit laboratory course is to train students in the scientific method. Throughout this course, they study a protein involved in a cellular process. Students, working in small groups, use bioinformatics to identify this protein in a number of species, then use this information to hypothesize which residues of the protein are important for its function. Over the course of the semester, students test their hypotheses in two model systems for studying cellular function-the unicellular eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the multicellular eukaryote Physcomitrella patens. The weekly lecture gives students the background necessary to understand and perform their experiments, including information on a variety of bioinformatics tools, phylogeny, protein structure, molecular techniques, cell biology, and microscopy. In addition, students use primary literature to understand the role their assigned protein plays in their cellular process. Prereq: Bio 2960 and Bio 2970. Small class. Credit 3 units. L. Strader

Biol 4522. Laboratory in Protein Biochemistry (spring)
The majority of the laboratory work focuses on a research question using biochemical methods.  The course consists of three sections: protein biochemistry, mass spectrometry, and structural biology.  In the first section of the course, students learn principles and methods for heterologous expression of proteins in bacteria, protein quantitation, protein purification, SDS-PAGE, and kinetic analysis of enzyme activity.  The second part focuses on using mass spectrometry to identify and to characterize proteins.  The final part of the course introduces students to concepts of structural biology including protein crystallization, x-ray diffraction, and computer modeling of protein structures.  Fulfills the upper-level laboratory requirement for the Biology major.  Prereqs: Chem 252 and either Bio 451 or Bio 4810/Chem 481.  Suggested to be taken concurrently with Bio4820/Chem482.  Enrollment is limited and requires the permission of Dr. Jez. Small class.  Credit 3 units.  J. Jez, W. Cruz

Biol 4580. Principles of Human Anatomy and Development (fall) Same as L48 Anthro 4581.  
This course is designed for both undergraduate and graduate students in the anthropological, biological and/or premedical sciences who wish to learn about human anatomy from various evolutionary, functional, developmental and clinical perspectives. Lectures emphasize the organizational and developmental principles of various organ systems of the human body.  The course also makes use of our extensive anatomy museum of labeled dissected human specimens as well as our cast collections of numerous specimens from the human fossil record where appropriate.  Frequent use of X-rays, CT, and MRI scans also are used to help students visualize human anatomy from a number of different imaging modalities.  Prerequisites:  Undergraduate or graduate students in the anthropological, biological, and/or pre-medical sciences who have had at least one course in physical anthropology and/or biology, or consent of instructor.  Large class.  Credit 3 units.  J. Phillips Conroy and G. Conroy  (Anatomy and Neurobiology, WUMS)

Biol 4810 General Biochemistry I (fall) Same as L47 Chem 481
The first part of a two-semester survey of biochemistry.  This course covers biological structures, enzymes, membranes, energy production and an introduction to metabolism.  Prereqs: Biol 2960 and Chem 252. Large class. Credit 3 units.  R. Blankenship

Biol 4820 General Biochemistry II (spring) Same as Chem 482.
Same as Chem 482. The second part of a two-semester survey of biochemistry. This course is a continuation of General Biochemistry I focusing on metabolism, transport, transcription, translation and biosynthesis. Prereq: Biol 2960 and Chem 252 or 262. Large class. Credit 3 units. J. Jez

Bio 4830 Bioenergy (spring)
A broad overview of the flow of energy, captured from sunlight during photosynthesis, in biological systems, and current approaches to utilize the metabolic potentials of microbes and plants to produce biofuels and other valuable chemical products. An overall emphasis is placed on the use of large-scale genomic, transcriptomic and metabolomic datasets in biochemistry. The topics covered include photosynthesis, central metabolism, structure and degradation of plant lignocellulose, and microbial production of liquid alcohol, biodiesel, hydrogen & other advanced fuels. Course meets during the second half of the spring semester. Prereqs: Biol 4810 or permission of instructor. Small class. Credit 2 units. H. Pakrasi

Bio 493. Seminar in Advanced Biology (spring/fall)
In special cases credit may be given for individual study. Topics and credit must be arranged with a faculty sponsor and approved by the department. Credit to be determined. 1-3 units.

Biol 4933 Molecular Biology on the Cutting Edge (spring)
Recent biomedical discoveries have been greatly advanced through the development of innovative, state-of-the-art techniques. For example, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) has proved to be an invaluable tool in both efforts to determine the atomic structure of proteins and small molecules as well as in clinical settings, as MRI to identify tumors that would otherwise go unnoticed.  This course introduces students to a variety of cutting-edge laboratory techniques, and discusses the impact of these techniques on biology and medicine. Students have the unique opportunity to learn from graduate students employing these approaches in their doctoral studies.  Topics include: high-throughput sequencing of genetic disorders, x-ray crystallography, and single molecule force spectroscopy by AFM. Weekly classes consist of a 30-45 minute presentation on a particular technique, followed by 60-minute discussion of the assigned readings.  Prerequistes: Biology 2960 and 2970 and at least one semester of BIO500 or equivalent research experience approved by the course master.  2 units.  P. Levin and graduate students

Bio 500. Independent Work (spring/fall)
Research under the supervision of a faculty sponsor.  Prerequisites: junior or senior standing and permission of sponsor and the department (K. Olsen).  Credit/No Credit only, credit to be determined in each case, usually 3 units/semester.  If work is to be submitted for Honors, see Page 9, Honors in Biology.  Arrangements for registration should be completed during the preregistration period, if at all possible. P. Stein