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Course Listing in Biological Sciences

All courses, arranged by program, are listed in the catalog. If you cannot locate a specific course, try the Advanced Search. Current class schedules, with posted days and times, can be found on the NOW/Student Dashboard or by logging in to SiS.


Professional Experience (Formerly 81.500)

Description

3 Credits will be given to individuals who present evidence of having at least one full year of current experience in an academic, hospital, or industrial laboratory setting, or in secondary school science teaching

Bioinformatics

Description

There is a growing need for bioinformaticians in research and industry as datasets are getting bigger and more complex, making computational methods necessary for analysis. This hands-on course introduces principles, databases, software, and programming for the analysis and interpretation of molecular datasets. Emphasis is on practical assignments using computational approaches from a biologist's perspective. Topics include genome assembly, variant detection, comparative genomics and transcriptomics, metagenomics, as well as data retrieval form databases and basic programming using Bash and R. A term project and computer-based exercises are designed to showcase the capabilities and limitations of bioinformatics tools used in genome research, as well as to develop skills in coding literacy.

Bioinformatic Tools in Sequence Analysis

Description

This hands-on course introduces databases, approaches, and software for the analysis and interpretation of molecular sequences. Practical assignments and a term project emphasize the application of computational approaches from a biologist's perspective. Topics include genome assembly, transcriptomic analysis, and data retrieval from databases using both graphical user interfaces and basic computer programming using Bash and R. The class assignments are all computer-based exercises that are designed to showcase the capabilities and limitations of bioinformatics research and tools used in sequence analysis, as well as to develop skills in coding literacy.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5062L Bioinformatic Tools in Sequence Analysis Lab, Sophomore-level knowledge of genetics, or permission of instructor.

Bioinformatic Tools in Sequence Analysis Lab

Description

This lab accompanies the Bioinformatic Tools in Sequence Analysis lecture, with hands-on practical assignments to achieve a firmer understanding of bioinformatics tools and principles. Assignments and a term project emphasize the application of computational approaches from a biologist's perspective. Topics include genome assembly, transcriptomic analysis, and data retrieval from databases using both graphical user interfaces and basic computer programming using Bash and R. The class assignments are all computer-based exercises that are designed to showcase the capabilities and limitations of bioinformatics research and tools used in sequence analysis, as well as to develop skills in coding literacy.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5062 Bioinformatic Tools in Sequence Analysis, Sophomore-level knowledge of genetics, or permission of instructor.

Data Science for Biologists

Description

Like many other areas of science and business, biology is increasingly defined by increasing amounts of available data. The ability to analyze, visualize, and make inferences from this data will become increasingly valuable for future biologists. Data science can be defined as the intersection between computer science, applied statistics, and knowledge of the application domain--in this case, biology. In this class we will apply methods such as generalized linear models, multi-level models, unsupervised learning, and basic neural networks to biological problems. Hands-on activities using Python will give students experience with steps of data science project, including simulating, exploring, visualizing, drawing conclusions with statistics, and creating a reproducible analysis.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5072L Data Science for Biologists in Python Lab.

Data Science for Biologists

Description

Like many other areas of science and business, biology is increasingly defined by increasing amounts of available data. The ability to analyze, visualize, and make inferences from this data will become increasingly valuable for future biologists. Data science can be defined as the intersection between computer science, applied statistics, and knowledge of the application domain--in this case, biology. In this class we will apply methods such as generalized linear models, multi-level models, unsupervised learning, and basic neural networks to biological problems. Hands-on activities using Python will give students experience with steps of data science project, including simulating, exploring, visualizing, drawing conclusions with statistics, and creating a reproducible analysis.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5072 Data Science for Biologists.

Cell Biology for Teachers (Formerly 81.508)

Description

This online course will examine the structure and function of cells and the regulation of cellular processes characteristics of living organisms. Students will explore the complexity of the eukaryotic cell and gain an understanding of the mechanisms of cellular control and regulation. Course activities will make connections to state frameworks and national standards, and lead to the development of grade-appropriate curriculum materials for use in the elementary and middle school classroom. Class activities will include discussions, quizzes, lesson plans, web reviews, current events, and a final project.

Photobiology (Formerly 81.509)

Description

Biological process involving light in plants and animals. Topics include mechanisms of light absorption, energy transduction, light reactions in photosynthesis, functions of color in flowering plants, visual systems and structural and pigment coloration in animals, pigmentation in animals affecting camouflage and reproductive strategies. In addition, the genetics involved in responses to light such as photoperiods, cicardian rhythms, and seasonal cycles will be covered.

Prerequisites

Pre-Req: BIOL 4190 or 519 Biochemistry.

Vertebrate Animals in Biological Research (Formerly 81.517)

Description

Vertebrate Animals in Biological Research: History, Protocols, Regulations and Techniques is a lecture, discussion, and techniques based course to cover the principles of vertebrate animal research in biology. This course covers topics ranging from the history of animal research, ethics, regulations, institutional compliance, experimental design, research techniques, disease models, and animal welfare during research. The course will involve literature review and discussions regarding all topics being covered as well as the creation of an IACUC protocol. The protocol will then be reviewed in a mock IACUC meeting. There will also be hands on portions involving research techniques using training analogues and familiarization with animal research tools.

Biochemistry I (Formerly 81.519)

Description

Primarily for M.S. students in biological sciences. Lecture and text assignments on the subjects of protein, carbohydrate, lipid, enzyme and membrane biochemistry will be supplemented with research journal readings.

Biochemistry II (Formerly 81.520)

Description

This course will focus on protein dynamics where students will gain facility with thermodynamics of protein folding/misfolding, catalysis, kinetics and binding equilibria as they apply to proteins and other molecules in biological systems. The central theme of this course is that living systems can be understood in terms of the fundamental principles defining the structure and energetics of biological molecules. Attention will be given to quantitative aspects of enzyme kinetics and molecular binding. Examples of how these principles apply to the understanding and treatment of human disease will be discussed.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL 5190 Biochemistry I or BIOL 4190 Biochemistry

Biochemistry Techniques (Formerly 81.521)

Description

Biochemistry Required of M.S. students in them Biotechnology Option. Emphasis on common techniques and instrumentation employed in modern research laboratories.

Prerequisites

Pre or Co-req: BIOL 4190 Biochemistry, or BIOL 5190 Biochemistry I.

Advanced Topics in Biochemistry

Description

This seminar course will focus on the detailed discussion of structure of proteins and other biological molecules, and how the structure determines the function of biological molecules. Students will be first introduced to each topic by the instructor through a short introductory lecture, then will be assigned to read an original research paper on the topic. During the next class, a group of preassigned students will present the paper to the class, followed by the class discussion of the paper. Students who are not presenting will be expected to read each paper before class, then ask questions and participate in the discussion of that paper during class.

Prerequisites

Pre-Req: BIOL.5190 Biochemistry

Biology of Global Change (Formerly 81.523)

Description

There is currently no description available for this course.

Evolutionary Biology (Formerly 81.526)

Description

Lectures deal with the patterns and processes of biological evolution. Covers the history of evolutionary thought, the evidence for evolution, the generation and maintenance of population-level variation, natural selection, adaptation, sexual selection, speciation, phylogenetics, molecular evolution, the fossil record and extinctions. In addition to lecture and textbook material, the course surveys classic and contemporary primary literature from evolutionary biology. A written paper and/or seminar presentation will be required.

Molecular Biotechnology: Recombinant Protein Production (Formerly 81.528)

Description

Proteins are major targets of Pharmaceuticals, and are themselves increasingly used as therapeuticals. However both basic research and the pharmaceutical industry depends on availability of purified proteins that are often difficult to isolate from native sources. In this lecture course, students will learn basic and advanced theoretical background in expression and purification of recombinant proteins. It will cover a variety of expression systems, including prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The course will also address traditional and new methods in recombinant protein purification. Furthermore, students will be introduced to some downstream applications such as crystallization screens and biochemical/biophysical studies. Student will choose a term project for oral and written presentation.

Recombinant Protein Production Techniques (Formerly 81.429 & 81.529)

Description

This course introduces students to the principles and practice of recombinant protein expression and purification's. Proteins are major targets of pharmaceuticals, and are themselves increasingly used as therapeuticals. However both basic research and pharmaceutical industry depends on availability of purified proteins that are often difficult to isolate from native sources. This course will provide both didactic and laboratory instruction. It is comprised of a series of lecture and laboratory exercises, with an emphasis on practical techniques and hands-on experience of recombinant protein purification. The course will cover a variety of expression systems, including prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and address traditional and new methods in protein purification.

Cancer Genomics

Description

Cancer is usually the result of genetic alterations acquired over a lifetime that enable a tumor to grow and spread. As a result, each tumor is unique and involves a complex combination of mutations--a part of the reason that cancers can be so hard to treat. To better understand the characteristics of these diseases and discover appropriate treatments, institutions have comprehensively profiled the genomic changes across thousands of people's tumors. That data is available for anyone with the right skills to analyze. In this class, we will delve into the world of the genomics of cancer, as a way to learn how cancers develop, how molecular profiling technologies generate data about these cancers, and how bioinformatics approaches can harness these data to gain insight and discover treatment.

Genomics (Formerly 81.532)

Description

This course surveys the field of genomics, examining current technologies and their biological applications. Lectures cover genome organization, genome sequencing and annotation, functional genomics, evolutionary genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and the role of bioinformatics in organizing and interpreting genomic data. Students will be expected to submit written papers and to make oral presentations.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5340L Genomics Laboratory.

Genomics Laboratory (Formerly 81.534)

Description

A series of molecular laboratory and computer-based bioinformatics exercises providing practical experience in the collection and analysis of genomic-level data.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5320 Genomics.

Behavioral Ecology

Description

Animals learn songs, practice agriculture, and craft tools. They build elaborate structures without a blueprint and migrate across the globe without a map. This course explores the mechanistic and evolutionary causes of animal behavior. A combination of lectures, discussions, and animal demos will introduce students to major themes in the field, while emphasizing experiments and ecological context as fundamental to the study of behavior. Students will discuss historic debates and emerging research on the evolution of exaggerated sexual ornaments and defensive structures, sensory bias, heritability of behavior, reciprocity & kinship, and the emergence of animal societies. By the end of the course, students will be able to interpret the behaviors of animals in the evolutionary framework.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: Biology (MS) Majors only.

Field Techniques in Ecology

Description

This course will explore the fundamental concepts of field ecology. The goal of this course is to give students an immersive, research-oriented, hands-on learning experience that integrates the interactions of organisms with each other and with their abiotic environment in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in Massachusetts and elsewhere in New England. Students will learn the natural history of these habitats and their organisms, engage in scientific field research, and develop sills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. By the end of the course, students will have a working toolbox of field techniques to ask questions in population, community, and ecosystem ecology.

Biology and Evolution of Arthropoda (Formerly 81.537)

Description

A detailed examination of phylum Arthropoda from developmental, ecological, genetic, morphological and paleontological perspectives. Specific topics include arthropod origins and relationships to proto-arthropods, the evolution of segmentation, and current perspectives on relationships within the phylum.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL 3060 Invertebrate Zoology; BIOL 3080L Invertebrate Zoology Lab; BIOL 4260 Evolutionary Biology and Co- req: BIOL 5390L Biology and Evolution of Arthropoda Lab.

Advanced Genetic Analysis

Description

This course explores fundamental concepts in classical and molecular genetics. We will examine how studies in genetic model organisms (including budding yeast, Drosophila, and C. elegans) have yielded remarkable insight into a host of biological mechanisms, including cell-signaling pathways, animal development, and gene regulation. Special emphasis will be placed on how geneticists design and interpret their studies. The semester will cover strategies ranging from the classical (screens, selection, complementation, and conditional mutants) to the modern approaches enabled by the genomic revolution (genetic engineering, gene misexpression, and genome-wide association studies).

Epigenetics & Chromatin

Description

Although epigenetic phenomena have been observed for over a century, researchers have only started to untangle their underlying mechanism and effects on gene expression. This course provides and overview of epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromosome structure, and nuclear organization. We will discuss how molecules help regulate gene expression to affect health, development, and cell fate across organisms. The class will rely upon current and classic readings from the primary literature to best understand new genomic advances and current technological limits in the field. A special emphasis will be placed on experimental design and data interpretation.

Biology and Evolution of Arthropoda (Formerly 81.539)

Description

An exploration of protoarthropod and arthropod diversity using live and preserved specimens of the major taxa including Tardigrada, Onychophora, Chelicerata, Crustacea, Myriapoda and Hexapoda. Students will learn to collect, dissect, identify, handle and care for live specimens.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL 3060 Invertebrate Zoology; BIOL 3080L Invertebrate Zoology Lab, BIOL 4260 Evolutionary Biology and Co-req: BIOL 5370 Biology and Evolution of Arthropoda.

Advanced Cell Biology (Formerly 81.542)

Description

This is an advanced course in cell biology. In this course we will examine different areas of eukaryotic cell biology including: membrane structure and function, cell adhesion, intercellular communication, signal transduction, chemotaxis, receptor-medicated endocytosis and intracellular trafficking. Mechanisms underlying relevant human diseases will also be discussed. Upon completion of the course the student will have a strong understanding of cell biology, develop critical thinking processes, proficiency in scientific reading and how to communicate material succinctly.

Evolution in Context for Teachers (Formerly 81.547)

Description

This course empowers life science teachers of all levels with the skills and knowledge to more effectively foster student understanding of evolution by natural selection. By exploring evolution in multiple contexts, the Darwinian framework for how life evolved (and continues to evolve) are presented in an interactive and engaging manner. Teachers learn to use virtual resources to enhance their students learning while digging deep into some of the most profound and interesting science conducted in the last 100 years. Evolution in context makes the science of evolution come alive in a real and relevant manner. From the historical and scientific to the environmental and political, Teachers will learn about evolution in ways they never imagined.

Form Feeds Function in Vertebrate Evolution

Description

This course will provide you with a solid comparative knowledge of how vertebrates including humans have evolved, focusing on how anatomy (form) feeds function (physiology, biomechanics) in movement biology (cardiorespiratiory, sensing, locomotion, feeding). it is only by understanding our evolutionary history that you understand e.g. how vertebrates became Olympian movers, how humans became bipedal, why we use parts of the ancestral jaw to hear, and how we avoid choking when we swallow. Such knowledge is key for medical and veterinary school, but will also support you in biomedical and biotechnology fields as well as in various general science disciplines. This course emphasizes modes of thought, including the differences between evidence and inference, and between correlation and causalit.

Biology of Muscle

Description

This course takes integrative approaches to exploring architecture, physiology and mechanics of vertebrate skeletal muscle as the main driver of movements in organisms including humans. Combining presentations and discussions of important publications with simple experiments and report-writing, the course hones a specialist-level understanding of how the organ structure is constructed, how cell-level phenomena govern contraction, how the nervous system controls muscle function, how muscle contractions are constrained by physics, and how muscle as an organ structure is able to mitigate those constraints. We will also build and use actuators inspired by muscle function.

Parasitic Protozoology

Description

An introduction to the diversity of single-celled eukaryotes, i.e., protozoans, that are parasites of humans, domestic, and wild animals. Lectures emphasize the morphology, physiology, and life cycles of species of Plasmodium (Malaria), Trypanosoma (Sleeping sickness, Chagas Disease), Leishmania (Leishmaniasis), Toxoplasma (Toxoplasmosis), and Giardia (Giardiasis), and include their arthropod vectors when present (e.g., mosquitoes, sand flys, kissing bugs, ticks). Students will learn the basics of disease (symptoms and pathologies), historical and contemporary treatments, and control measures. Current research will be emphasized with the primary literature. The lecture will incorporate a synchronous laboratory component that provides students opportunities to examine prepared specimens for identification and apply basic methods to the study of parasitic protozoa.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL.2220 Principals of Cell and Molecular Biology.

Entomology

Description

This course explores the diversity, evolution, and behavior of insects. Insects are pollinators, undertakers, and parasites. They are master architects, and the inventors of flight and agriculture. Their societies can tower over elephants or fit in the palm of your hand. Plagues of locusts have shaped human history and wars have been won on the backs of fleas. This course emphasizes natural history as the foundation of innovation in entomology. Students will develop a solid understanding of the principles of insect biology that can be applied to medical, forensic, veterinary, agricultural, conservation and academic fields.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5550L Entomology Laboratory.

Entomology Lab

Description

This laboratory focuses on insect classification, development and behavior. Students will travel to local field sites to study and collect insects. Each student will curate a professional insect collection and develop a working knowledge of insect taxonomy through dissection and comparison of preserved specimens, including economically and medically important insects. Students will also rear a variety of social and solitary insects under experimental conditions and report their results. Labs on behavior will focus on insect communication, parental care, eusociality, and orientation.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5550 Entomology.

Metazoan Parasitology (Formerly 81.557)

Description

An introduction to the diversity of metazoans (animals) that parasitize humans, livestock, other animals (both vertebrate and invertebrate), and plants. Lectures emphasize the morphology, form and function, physiology, systematics, evolution, lifecycles and pathogenesis of several major parasitic groups.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5590L Metazoan Parasitology Laboratory.

Metazoan Parasitology Laboratory (Formerly 81.559)

Description

The purpose of the laboratory is to provide students an opportunity to identify and work with a variety of parasites that we discuss in lecture. We will work with preserved specimens, slide material, necropsies, and live specimens. Students will learn how to identify parasites and appreciate where they live in the vertebrate body.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5570 Metazoan Parasitology.

Stem Cell Biology (Formerly 81.560)

Description

The molecular and genetic characteristics of stem cells and their developmental potential will be explored. Lectures and readings will cover the development of embryonic, fetal and adult stem cells, and will examine their use in treating human disorders receiving widesread attention, including neurodegenerative diseases, heart disease, spinal cord injury and leukemia. The ethical, legal and social implications of stem cell research will also be discussed. Additional library investigation and a term paper or seminar will be required.

Cardiovascular Physiology (Formerly 81.562)

Description

This course will focus on human cardiovascular physiology in normal and diseased states. The objective of Cardiovascular Physiology is to reinforce the concept that that the cardiovascular system can be understood in terms fundamental biophysical and cellular physiological principles. Quantitative aspects will be reinforced with problem sets in the accompanying lab course 81.563. Key concepts in the course will be placed in a medical context showing the underlying physiological concepts that lead to disease states such as: altered blood pressure heart failure, valvular disease and arrhythmias.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5630L Cardiovascular Physiology Lab.

Cardiovascular Physiology Lab (Formerly 81.563)

Description

Cardiovascular Physiology Lab is designed to supplement Cardiovascular Physiology 81.562. The objective of the course is to teach cardiovascular system function using problems sets as well as clinical and pathophysiological examples.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5620 Cardiovascular Physiology.

Molecular Biology (Formerly 81.567)

Description

A study of the principles and specialized techniques of cloning, purifying, and manipulating recombinant DNA molecules.

Prerequisites

Pre-Req: BIOL 4190 or 519 Biochemistry.

Molecular Techniques (Formerly 81.569)

Description

Laboratory experiments and independent projects designed to illustrate current techniques and instrumentation used in genetic engineering. Included are restriction mapping, cloning, plasmid purification, blot hybridization, and DNA sequencing. Students are introduced to computer software utilized for DNA sequence analysis and manipulation.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL 5190 Biochemistry I or BIOL 4190 Biochemistry, and BIOL 5210L Biochemistry Techniques or BIOL 4210L Biochemistry Techniques.

Virology (Formerly 81.572)

Description

A study of bacterial, animal, and plant viruses, including viral structure, modes of replication, biochemistry of the infected cell, genetic properties, and viral oncogenesis. Emphasis is on viruscell interaction at the molecular level.

Cell Culture (Formerly 81.576)

Description

A series of lecture and laboratory exercises that will focus on the in vitro culture and analysis of multiple cell type commonly used in biomedical research laboratories. The lecture component will review methodologies used to establish immortalized cell lines, medium component for specific cell types, and techniques for genetically manipulating and analyzing cell lines. The laboratory exercises will emphasize the mastery of sterile techniques used to grow both established cell line and primary cultures, and molecular tools used for introducing recombinant genes and for analyzing cell growth and differentiation.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL.4210L or BIOL.5210L Biochemistry Techniques.

Developmental Biology (Formerly 81.580)

Description

An in depth discussion of contemporary topics related to reproduction and embryogenesis. Lecture material is supplemented with reading assignments in a recently published textbook and current literature taken from research journals. Emphasis is on the dynamic nature of the interactions between developing cells as well as the events that occur during fertilization, implantation and the development of the mammalian embryo which lead to birth. Students examine how studies with nonmammalian model systems such as Drosophila and Xenopus have enhanced our knowledge of mammalian development. Among the topics discussed are the role of adhesion molecules, HOX genes, apoptosis, hypornethylation of genes, axis formation and hormonal control of differentiation. Class participation is expected. Critical scientific reading and thinking is encouraged by having students present to the class published original research papers on topics of current interest in the field of developmental biology.

Developmental Biology Lab

Description

This course provides hands on experience in current methods and model systems used to investigate questions in developmental biology. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of embryonic systems, including intensively studied genetic model systems (e.g. C. elegans, zebrafish, mouse) and others with well-established experimental attributes (e.g. chick, sea urchin). Analytical and experimental techniques used to explore invertebrate and vertebrate development include embryological manipulation, molecular and cell biology approaches. Conceptual topics include cell specification and differentiation, pattern formation, morphogenesis, and comparative embryology. This lab supplements the Developmental Biology lecture (BIOL.5800).

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5800 Developmental Biology.

Cancer Biology (Formerly 81.582)

Description

A study of the genes and proteins implicated in the cause of human cancer and discussion of the complex behaviors of cancer cells that differ from their normal counterparts in human tissue. Lectures and original research papers will be used.

Comparative Vertebrate Embryology

Description

A comparative study of vertebrate embryological development focusing on the morphological development (e.g., Differentiation of tissues, organs, and systems) of vertebrates. Evolutionary relationships of the classes of vertebrates will be investigated through their anatomy. This course builds on concepts taught in Developmental Biology, providing more detailed analysis of tissue development in a comparative context.

Experimental Design and Analysis in Life Science

Description

Through discussion of practical issues arising in biology research, reading of the literature and performing applied exercises students will move principles of sound experimental design, analysis and presentation from their "recognition vocabulary" to their "active vocabulary". The objective is for students successfully completing this course to be able to serve as a statistical consultant for researchers (including themselves) wishing to conduct experiments requiring moderately complex statistical designs.

Structural Biology (Formerly 81.588)

Description

Structural basis of the molecular biology of cells and the regulation of cellular processes will be discussed. This course will cover the fundamental knowledge about protein, nucleic acid and membrane structure in relation to central systems in biology. Topics to be discussed include structural enzymology, macromolecular assemblies for replication, transcription, translation, membrane proteins, signal transduction, cell motility and transport, cell-cell interactions, the immune system, and virus structure. Students will choose a recently published primary research article for an oral presentation, and will lead a class discussion on that topic.

Practical Protein Crystallography (Formerly 81.589 & 81.489)

Description

This course provides grounding in the principles and practice of protein x-ray crystallography. The course will be unique in format and provide both didactic and laboratory instruction. It is comprised of a series of lecture and laboratory exercises, with an emphasis on practical techniques and hands-on experience of modern protein crystallography. The course will cover the fundamental knowledge about x-ray physics, instrumentation and geometrical diffraction, protein crystallization, macromolecular data collection and processing, phase estimation and improvement, model building and refinement, and model assessment. Student will also be given a recently published structural paper for writhing a report on the subject.

Prerequisites

Pre-Req: 81.521 Biochemistry Techniques

Crystallography and Structural Bioinformatics

Description

This course provides grounding in the principles and practice of protein x-ray crystallography, with some applications in structural bioinformatics and drug discovery. This course is comprised of a series of lecture with an emphasis on practical methodologies of modern protein crystallography and structural bioinformatics. The course will cover the fundamental knowledge about x-ray physics, instrumentation and geometrical diffraction, protein crystallization, macromolecular data collection and processing, phase estimation and improvement, model building and assessment, and some exploration of bioinformatics tools employed in structure prediction and molecular docking.

Crystallography and Structural Bioinformatics Lab

Description

This lab course provides grounding in the principles and practice e-ray crystallography, with some applications in structural bioinformatics and drug discovery. It covers topics correlated with the co-requisite lecture course BIOL.5892.

Prerequisites

Co-req: BIOL.5892 Crystallography and Structural Bioinformatics.

Human Neurobiology (Formerly 81.490 & 81.590)

Description

A study of cellular and systems neurobiology with a focus on how these relate to human health and disease. Particular attention will be given to illustrating functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the human CNS using investigations into the pathogenic mechanisms of a variety of human neurodegenerative diseases including epilepsy, Alzheimer's Disease, Huntington's Disease, ALS among others. Note: Graduate level enrollees will be responsible for additional reading and writing.

Immunology (Formerly 81.493 & 81.593)

Description

A study of the nature of the immune response with sections on antibody structure, function and production; antigen-antibody reactions; immunogenetics; and immune regulation, protection and injury.

Immunology II, Current Topics

Description

This course will focus on recent advances in the field of immunology including the study of immune development and activation, response to infection, vaccines, immunoregulation, cancer immunotherapy, and immune dysfunction. Expanding upon the foundational immunologic concepts covered in BIOL.4930/BIOL.5930, students will gain knowledge of the innate and adaptive immune system at the structural, molecular, cellular, and functional levels. The objectives of Advanced Topics in Immunology are to gain a comprehensive and practical understanding of current immunological principles in research and clinical/applied sciences, learn to critically read and evaluate scientific literature, learn to interpret data, and design experiments that rigorously test hypotheses.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL.4930 or BIOL.5930 Immunology.

Host-Pathogen Interactions

Description

This transdisciplinary course will examine the interface between pathogens and their hosts a multiple levels. We will begin with molecular and cellular interactions between host and pathogen species and will expand to include ecological patterns, behavioral biology, and host-pathogen co-evolution. Following an introduction to infectious disease, microbiology, and immunology, we will critically read and evaluate scientific literature. The objectives of Host-Pathogen Interactions are to gain a comprehensive and practical understanding of host-pathogen dynamics, patterns of disease ecology, and host-pathogen co-evolution. Students will learn to critically read and evaluate scientific literature, interpret data, and design experiments.

Immunology Laboratory (Formerly 81.495 & 81.595)

Description

A series of basic laboratory exercises dealing with the preparation, isolation and characterization of antigens, antibodies and effector cells.

Graduate Colloquium Biology (Formerly 81.603)

Description

Presentations of current topics by visiting scientists and staff. Required of all graduate students.

Professional Communication in Science and Technology (Formerly 81.604)

Description

The course instructs students in developing effective writing and speaking skills required for preparation of publishable scientific manuscripts and presentations. The importance of clear, concise writing style and delivery of presentations to both research, scientists and non-scientists is emphasized. Guest speakers discuss commercialization of technology, intellectual property, and electronic literature searches/citation. Experimental design, statistical analyses, research grant preparation, and poster presentations are also reviewed. Outside readings are used to critically evaluate contemporary issues related to disclosure, conflict of interet, publishing ethics, biosecurity, and electronic science collaborations/team research.

Graduate Proposal Writing Seminar

Description

The primary purpose of this course is to enable students to apply their broad biological sciences perspectives and intellectual skills to solve complex problems and to catalyze new discoveries. To achieve these goals, students will gain effective skills in preparing professional proposals. Key concepts in the course highlight hypothesis formation and proposal development. This approach will help bridge-the-gap between classroom-based and research-based curriculum components of the Applied Biology PhD program. Exposure to the diverse range of specialties represented by students studying in the biological sciences field will enrich and diversify student knowledge.

Prerequisites

Pre-req: BIOL.6030 Graduate Colloquium Biology.

Applied Biology I

Description

This is the first in a two-semester sequence of courses that will introduce students to the range of research topics being addressed at UMass Lowell as well as to professional applications of Biology. Applied Biology is at the forefront of scientific research and technological development and underpins a number of growing industries. This course will provide an opportunity for students to learn about key areas in Applied Biology including Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics, Evolution, and Healthcare. To achieve these objectives this course will be divided into three topic blocks (4-5 weeks each) where a faculty member will provide didactic overview of that topic, and will then bring in guest lectures who will use half the class time.

Applied Biology II

Description

This is the second course in a two-semester sequence of curses that will introduce students to the range of research topics being addressed at UMass Lowell as well as to professional applications of Biology. Applied Biology is at the forefront of scientific research and technological development and underpins a number of growing industries. This course will provide an opportunity for students to learn about key areas in Applied Biology including Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics, Evolution, and Healthcare. To achieve these objectives this course will be divided into three topic blocks (4-5 weeks each) where a faculty member will provide a didactic overview of that topic, and will then bring in quest lecturers who will use half the class time.

Selected Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology (Formerly 81.666)

Description

Topics will focus on the central dogma of molecular Biology (DNA to RNA to protein) and how they relate to the structure and function of the cell. Course material will be taken directly from the current, primary literature with emphasis on student presentations and discussion. Multidisciplinary groups will select topics of interest to present to the class, and topics will vary by semester depending on student interests. Student groups will be expected to organize presentations into background and discussion sections and will lead class discussions.

Internship Biology (Formerly 81.707)

Description

There is currently no description available for this course.

Graduate Course Review (Formerly 81.708)

Description

Internship or co-op.

Supervised Instruction in Undergraduate Biology Education

Description

Graduate students will assist with the preparation of course materials, teaching and/or grading in selected courses offered by the Department of Biological Sciences. Students will be expected to work well independently, while also working under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Through these activities, the student will learn about materials used, as well as teaching and learning techniques implemented in undergraduate biology education. Required for the MS in Biological Sciences option: Education, Communication, and Outreach. "Variable credit course, student chooses appropriate amount of credits when registering."

Special Problems In Biology (Formerly 81.721)

Description

"Variable credit course, student chooses appropriate amount of credits when registering."

M.S. Project in Biology (Formerly 81.731)

Description

"Variable credit course, student chooses appropriate amount of credits when registering."

Master's Thesis - Biology (Formerly 81.743)

Description

"Variable credit course, student chooses appropriate amount of credits when registering."

PhD Dissertation Biological Sciences (Formerly 81.753)

Description

"Variable credit course, student chooses appropriate amount of credits when registering."

PhD Dissertation Biochemistry (Formerly 81.759)

Description

There is currently no description available for this course.

Continued Graduate Research (Formerly 81.769)

Description

There is currently no description available for this course.