Undergraduate Courses
Graduate Courses

Official Yale College program and course information is found in Yale College Programs of Study, available at http://yalecollege.yale.edu/content/yale-college-programs-study

Undergraduate Courses

Note: The letter "a" following a course number indicates a fall term course; "b"indicates a spring term course; "G" indicates courses offered to undergraduate and graduate students; courses without an "a" or "b" are year-long; "*" indicates permission from the instructor is needed. Bracketed courses are not offered in the academic year 2011-2012.

INTRODUCTORY COURSES WITHOUT PREREQUISITES:

MCDB 050. Immunology and Microorganisms. Paula Kavathas T Th 2.30-3.45 Explore principles of immunology, microbiology and host-microbe interaction. Specific organisms to be covered are HIV, influenza, human pappillomavirus, polio, commensal bacteria.

[MCDB 060a and *MCDB 061b Topics in Reproductive Biology]

MCDB 105a or b/MB&B 105a or b. An Issues Approach to Biology. 105a: Timothy Nelson, William Summers, David Wells 105b: Ronald Breaker, Andrew Miranker, Dieter Söll
MWF 11.35-12.25 Biological concepts taught in context of current societal issues, such as stem cell research and genetically modified organisms. Emphasis on biological literacy to enable students to evaluate scientific arguments.

MCDB 106a/HLTH 155a. Biology of Malaria, Lyme, and Other Vector-Borne Diseases. Alexia Belperron MW 1.00-2.15 Introduction to the biology of pathogen transmission from one organism to another by insects; special focus on malaria and Lyme disease. Modes of transmission and establishment of infection; immune responses and the associated challenges to prevention and treatment and the development of vaccines. Intended for non–science majors. Prerequisite: high school biology.

*MCDB 107a. Human Biology. William Segraves, Mitchell Kundel TTh 2.30-3.45
An introduction to the fundamentals of human anatomy and physiology. Enrollment limited to freshmen and sophomores.

*MCDB 109b. Immunology and microorganisms. Paula Kavathas TTh 1-2.15 Meets RP
Introduction to the human immune system, followed by study of microorganisms such as influenza, HIV, human papilloma virus, Chlamydia trachomatis, and commensal bacteria. Discussion of the biology of each organism and interaction with the host immune system, reinforcing principles of immune function. Enrollment limited to freshmen and sophomores.

MCDB 120a. Principles of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. John Carlson, Carol Bascom–Slack, Frank Slack
MWF 11.35-12.25 Introduction to biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, and development. Emphasis on the cell as the basic unit of life; its composition, functions, replication, and differentiation. Suitable as the first step in any biological sciences major, and also for any student wishing to understand the fundamentals of biology at the molecular and cellular level. This course is a prerequisite to MCDB courses numbered 202 or higher.

MCDB 121La. Laboratory for Principles of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. Maria Moreno
TWTh or F 1.30-5.30 A survey of the experimental techniques used in molecular, cellular and developmental biology with an emphasis on the utility of model organisms. Exercises in basic molecular biology techniques, protein chemistry, genetic analysis, cell fractionation, microbiology, microscopy and imaging, embryogenesis, plant and animal development. Concurrently with or after MCDB 120a.

MCDB 123b. Genes and the Environment. Jo Handelsman. M W 10.30-11.20 The nature of biological thought and inquiry explored through study of the interplay between genes and the environment. Influence of the microbial world on the physiology and evolution of organisms. Tools from molecular biology and genomics are used to examine the effects of internal and external factors on gene expression, how the process of gene expression leads to observable characteristics, and the relationship between bacterial gene expression and human survival. Prerequisite: Intended for non–science majors.

*MCDB 135b. How the Brain Works. David Wells, Mitchell Kundel MW 2.30-3.45 For non-science majors. The biology of the brain: gross anatomy of the brain and the cellular components that make up nervous tissue. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS; sensory processing such as vision and pain; psychoactive drugs and their use in treating brain disorders and in recreation. Enrollment limited to freshmen and sophomores.

[MCDB150bG/HIST400b. Global Problems of Population Growth]

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MCDB COURSES

MCDB 202a. Genetics. Shirleen Roeder, Stephen Dellaporta TTh 11.35-12.50
An introduction to classical, molecular, and population genetics of both prokaryotes and eukaryotes and their central importance in biological sciences. Emphasis on analytical approaches and techniques of genetics used to investigate mechanisms of heredity and variation. Topics include transmission genetics, cytogenetics, DNA structure and function, recombination, gene mutation, selection, and recombinant DNA technology.

MCDB 203La. Laboratory for Genetics. Iain Dawson, Gregory Fitzgerald MT or W 1.45-5.00
Introduction to laboratory techniques used in genetic analysis. Different genetic model organisms - bacteria, yeast, Drosophila, and Arabidopsis - are used to provide practical experience with various classical and molecular genetic techniques including cytogenetics, mutagenesis and mutant analysis, recombination and gene mapping, isolation and manipulation of DNA, and DNA sequence analysis. Concurrently with or after MCDB 202a.

MCDB 205b. Cell Biology. Thomas Pollard, Craig Crews, Valerie Horsley, Megan King TTh 9-10.15
A comprehensive introductory course in cell biology. Emphasis on the general principles that explain the molecular mechanisms of cellular function.

MCDB 210b. Developmental Biology. Vivian Irish, Scott Holley, Douglas Kankel T Th 11.30-12.50 Cellular differentiation and its genetic and molecular control; fertilization, cleavage, and morphogenesis of plants and animals; polarity and positional information; organogenesis and development of specialized tissues; evolution and development.

MCDB 215a/STAT 101aG. Introduction to Statistics: Life Sciences. Günter Wagner, Jonathan Reuning-Scherer
TTh 1-2:15 For description see under Statistics in the YCPS book.

*MCDB 230b/*MB&B 230b. Rain Forest Expedition and Laboratory. Scott Strobel, Carol Bascom-Slack, Lori-Ann Boulanger
MWF 10.30-11.20 Preparation for a two-week expedition to one of the world's rain forests during spring break and for a ten-week summer laboratory experience using samples collected during the expedition. Integrated topics draw on the fields of ecology, microbiology, chemistry, pharmacology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. Students participate in an original scientific project from field biology to natural product characterization. After one year of introductory biology or equivalent; after or concurrently with one term of organic chemistry. Limited enrollment. Funding for major travel expenses and summer research provided.

MCDB 240b. Biology of Reproduction. Hugh Taylor, Mary Klein MWF 10.30-11.20
Introduction to reproductive biology, with emphasis on human reproduction: development and hormonal regulation of reproductive systems; sexuality, fertilization, and pregnancy; modern diagnosis and treatment of reproductive and developmental disorders; social and ethical issues. Preference to upperclassmen and to students who have completed MCDB 120a or 200b or higher. Prerequisite: MCDB 120a, score of 5 on the Advanced Placement test in Biology, or score of 710 or above on the SAT Biology M test.

MCDB 241Lb. Laboratory for Biology of Reproduction and Development. Mary Klein T or Th 1.30-5
Laboratory investigation of reproductive and developmental processes. Emphasis on mammalian reproduction and embryonic development in classic vertebrate and invertebrate systems. Topics include gametogenesis, ovulation, hormonal control of reproduction, and investigation of embryogenesis in the frog and the fruit fly, Drosophila. Enrollment limited. Concurrently with or after MCDB 240b or 210b. Not open to freshmen.
Special registration procedures apply. Students must consult the instructor prior to the first week of classes.

MCDB 290b. Microbiology. Christine Jacobs-Wagner, Carol Bascom-Slack TTh 1-2.15
Cell structure of microorganisms, bacterial genetics, microbial evolution and diversity, microbial development, microbial interaction, chemotaxis and motility, gene regulation, microbial genomics, host defense systems, infectious diseases, viruses, and biological weapons. After MCDB 300a and CHEM 220a, 221b, or with permission of instructor.

MCDB 291Lb. Laboratory for Microbiology. Iain Dawson T or Th 2.30-5.30
Practical approaches used when working with microbes, primarily bacteria. Topics include microscopy, culture techniques, biochemical/metabolic assays, and basic environmental and medical microbiology. Concurrently with or after MCDB 290b.

MCDB 300bG/MB&B 200b. Biochemistry. L. Nicholas Ornston, Ronald Breaker, Donald Engelman
MWF 9.25-10.15 An introduction to the biochemistry of animals, plants, and microorganisms, emphasizing the relations of chemical principles and structure to the evolution and regulation of living systems. After one term of organic chemistry.

MCDB 301La/MB&B 251La. Laboratory for Biochemistry. William Konigsberg, Aruna Pawashe TTh 1-5
An introduction to current experimental methods in molecular biology. After or concurrently with MB&B 200a or 300a. Limited enrollment. Preregistration required; e-mail William Konigsberg prior to the first week of classes.

MCDB 303b. Advanced Biology Laboratory. MariaMoreno, Ken Nelson W 1.00-4.00 Th 2.30-3.45. A laboratory course that provides advanced biological research skills. Weekly workshops focus on grantsmanship, experimental design, data analysis, reading of primary literature, scientific presentations, and scientific writing skills. Application of these skills in project-based laboratory training sponsored by a faculty member.

MCDB 310aG/BENG 350aG. Physiological Systems. Mark Saltzman, Emile Boulpaep MWF 9.25-10.15
Regulation and control in biological systems, emphasizing human physiology and principles of feedback. Biomechanical properties of tissues emphasizing the structural basis of physiological control. Conversion of chemical energy into work in light of metabolic control and temperature regulation. Prerequisites: CHEM 113 or 115 or PHYS 180a and 181b, MCDB 120a.

MCDB 315b. Biological Mechanisms of Reaction to Injury. Joseph Madri, Michael Kashgarian, Jon Morrow, Jeffrey Sklar, A. Brian West
TTh 11.35-12.50 Meets RP Human biology and disease as a manifestation of reaction to injury. Organ structure and function, cell injury, circulatory and inflammatory responses, disordered physiology, and neoplasia. Enrollment limited; preference given to junior and senior majors in MCDB or MB&B. Prerequisite: MCDB 205b or 300a or 310a.

MCDB 320aG. Neurobiology. Haig Keshishian, Paul Forscher MWF 11.35-12.25
The excitability of the nerve cell membrane as a starting point for the study of molecular, cellular, and intercellular mechanisms underlying the generation and control of behavior. After a year of chemistry; a course in physics is strongly recommended.

MCDB 321LaG. Laboratory for Neurobiology. Haig Keshishian, Robert Wyman T or W 1.30-5.30
Optional laboratory. Introduction to the neurosciences. Projects include the study of neuronal excitability, sensory transduction, CNS function, synaptic physiology, and neuroanatomy. Concurrently with or after MCDB 320a.

*MCDB 341La or Lb. Laboratory in Electron Microscopy. Barry Piekos 341La: T 1.30- 4.30 341Lb: T or W 1.30-4.30 Meets RP both terms
Techniques in light and electron microscopy. Enrollment limited; preference given to Biology and MB&B majors in fall term only; students must devote two to three additional laboratory hours per week. Students must contact the instructor prior to the first week of classes. Required: to be taken after or concurrently with MCDB 205b.

*MCDB 342La. Laboratory in Nucleic Acids I. Kenneth Nelson TTh 1.30-4.30
A project from a research laboratory within the MCDB department, using many of the technologies from molecular and cell biology. Laboratories meet twice a week for the first half of the term. With or after MCDB 202a, 205b, or 300a. Enrollment limited.
Special registration procedures apply. Students must consult the instructor prior to the first week of classes.

*MCDB 343La. Laboratory in Nucleic Acids II. Kenneth Nelson TTh 1.30-4.30
Continuation of MCDB 342La to more advanced methods and techniques in molecular and cell biology, including projects such as making and screening cDNA libraries or microarray screening and analysis. Laboratories meet twice a week for the second half of the term. Prerequisite: MCDB 342La or with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited.
Special registration procedures apply. Students must consult the instructor prior to the first week of classes.

*MCDB 344Lb. Experimental Techniques in Cellular Biology. Joseph Wolenski MW 1.30-6.30
A problems-based approach to questions in cell and molecular biology, with emphasis on experimental strategies and techniques. Topics include SDS-PAGE, immunoblots, column chromatography, mammalian cell culture, cell fractionation, light microscopy, drug studies, bacterial cultures, and methods of transfection and transformation. Prepares for MCDB 475a or b or 485a, 486b or 495a, 496b. Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: MCDB 205b.
Special registration procedures apply. Students must contact the instructor by October of the fall term for spring registration.

*MCDB 345Lb. Experimental Strategies in Cellular Biology. Joseph Wolenski MW 1.30-6.30 Continuation of MCDB 344Lb, with increased emphasis on experimental design and interpretation of data. Research projects involving protein purification are semi-independent. Focus on developing an independent research project in modern biomedical research. Students participate in journal discussions, formal seminars, and presentations of data to peers. Prepares for MCDB 475a or b or 485a, 486b or 495a, 496b. Enrollment limited. Meets during March and April. Prerequisite: MCDB 344Lb. Special preregistration procedures apply; students must contact the instructor by October of the fall term for spring registration.

[MCDB 356a, Experimental Strategies in Molecular Cell Biology]

MCDB 361bG/AMTH 465b, Systems Modeling in Biology. Thiery Emonet, Steven Kleinstein, Simon Mochrie, Xiao Jing Wang, Steven Zucker, Kathryn Miller-Jensen TTh 2.30-3.45 Introduction to the techniques of integrating mathematics, physics, and engineering into the analysis of complex living systems. Use of these techniques to address questions about the design principles of biological systems. Discussion of experiments and corresponding mathematical models. Students build their own models using MATLAB.

*MCDB 370bG. Biotechnology. Xing-Wang Deng, Kenneth Nelson, Farren Isaacs, Joseph Wolenski
MW 11.35-12.50 The principles and applications of cellular, molecular, and chemical techniques that advance biotechnology. Topics include the most recent tools and strategies used by government agencies, industrial labs, and academic research to adapt biological and chemical compounds as medical treatments, as industrial agents, or for the further study of biological systems. Prerequisites: MCDB 200b or 202a or 300a

[*MCDB 375b G. Advances in Plant Molecular Biology.]

*MCDB 387b. The Eukaryotic Cell Cycle. Iain Dawson T or Th 7.00-8.50 p.m.
The regulation and coordination of the eukaryotic cell cycle examined by means of a detailed critique of primary literature. Particular attention to the processes of development, differentiation, and oncogenic disease. Enrollment limited, with preference to juniors and seniors. Prerequisite or corequisite: MCDB 202a or 205b.
Electronic permission key required. Students must contact the instructor prior to the first week of classes.

[MCDB 410a G, Molecular Basis of Development]

MCDB 415b G. Cellular and Molecular Physiology. Emile Boulpaep, Frederick Sigworth MWF 9.25-10.15
Study of the processes that transfer molecules across membranes. Topics include the different classes of molecular machines that mediate membrane transport. Emphasis on interactions among transport proteins in determining the physiologic behaviors of cells and tissues. Intended for seniors majoring in the biological sciences. Recommended preparation: MCDB 205b, 310a, 320a, or permission of instructor.

MCDB 425aG/MB&B 425aG. Basic Concepts of Genetic Analysis. Tian Xu, Tae-Hoon Kim, Marc Hammarlund, Richard Lifton, Shirleen Roeder, and staff.
MW 11.35-12.50 An examination of the universal principles of genetic analysis in eukaryotes. Reading and analysis of primary papers illustrating the best of genetic analysis in the study of a variety of biological issues. Focus on the concepts and logic underlying modern genetic analysis. Prerequisite: MCDB 202a or equivalent.

MCDB 430a G. Biology of the Immune System. Akiko Iwasaki, Peter Cresswell, Kevan Herold, Susan Kaech, Ruslan Medzhitov, Eric Meffree, Carla Rothlin, David Schatz, Joao Pedro Pereira
MWF 9.25-10.15 The development of the immune system. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of immune recognition. Effector responses against pathogens. Human diseases including allergy, autoimmunity, immunodeficiency, HIV/AIDS. After MCDB 300a.

*MCDB 435a. Landmark Papers in Cell Biology. Joel Rosenbaum, and staff 2 HTBA
Discussion and critical evaluation of selected research papers that were important in determining the directions of modern cell biological research. Emphasis on the nature of the problem, evaluation of experimental approaches and results, and the authors' interpretation of the results. Students should contact the instructor prior to the first week of classes. Prerequisites: courses in cell biology, biochemistry and genetics, or permission of instructor.

*MCDB 440b G. Brain Development and Plasticity. Weimin Zhong, Elke Stein MW 2.30-3.45
Recent advances in our understanding of brain development and plasticity, including neuronal determination, axon guidance, synaptogenesis, and developmental plasticity. Prerequisite: MCDB 320a or permission of instructor.

MCDB 450b. The Human Genome. Stephen Dellaporta M 3.30-5.30 Principles of genomic sciences as they are used to understand complex human traits and diseases. How the human genome was sequenced; organization of the genome; the amount and characterization of variation in the human population; variation and phenotypic differences; the human genome compared to that of our closest relatives; genome resequencing and genome association studies. Enrollment limited to 20. Students should contact the instructor prior to the first week of classes. Prerequisite: a course in genetics or permission of instructor.

MCDB 452bG/CPSC 452b/MB&B 452bG. Bioinformatics: Practical Application of Simulation & Data Mining. Mark Gerstein, Dieter Söll
MW 1.00-2.15 Techniques in data mining and simulation applied to bioinformatics, the computational analysis of gene sequences, macromolecular structures, and functional genomics data on a large scale. Sequence alignment, comparative genomics and phylogenetics, biological databases, geometric analysis of protein structure, molecular-dynamics simulation, biological networks, microarray normalization, and machine-learning approaches to data integration. Prerequisites: MB&B 301b and MATH 115a or b, or permission of instructor.

*MCDB460bG. Cell Biology of the Neuron. Elke Stein and staff TTh 4.00-5.15
A comprehensive course to neural cell biology. Principles of cell biology will be reviewed in the context of the developing nervous system. Discussion topics include membrane trafficking, receptor mechanisms, neurotrophin signaling, neuronal cytoskeleton, axon guidance, and synapse formation and maintenance. Prerequisite: one course in cell biology.

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MCDB RESEARCH AND TUTORIALS

*MCDB 470a or b. Tutorial. Staff. HTBA
Individual or small-group study for qualified students who wish to investigate a broad area of experimental biology not presently covered by regular courses. A student must be sponsored by a Yale faculty member, who sets the requirements. The course must include one or more written examinations and/or a term paper. This is intended to be a supplementary course and, therefore, to have weekly or biweekly discussion meetings between the student and the sponsoring faculty member. To register, the student must prepare a form, available in the office of the director of undergraduate studies, and a written plan of study with bibliography, approved by the adviser. The form and proposal must be uploaded to the Classes server or submitted to the course instructor in 754 KBT by Friday, September 9, for the fall term and Tuesday, January 17, for the spring term. The final paper is due in the hands of the sponsoring faculty member, with a copy to the course instructor, by the beginning of reading period. In special cases, with approval of the director of undergraduate studies, this course may be elected for more than one term, but only one term will count as an elective for the major. Additional sections offered in Beijing, China, under the supervision of Xing-Wang Deng. See under Peking University-Yale University Joint Undergraduate Program.

*MCDB 475a or b. Research. Staff. HTBA
Research projects under faculty supervision, ordinarily taken to fulfill the senior requirement. This course may be taken before the senior year, but it cannot substitute for other requirements. Students are expected to spend approximately ten hours per week in the laboratory, and to make presentations to students and advisers at monthly section meetings. Written assignments include a short research proposal summary, at the beginning of the term, approved by the Yale faculty sponsor and the instructor in charge of the course. A final research report is required at the end of the term, before a grade is given. Seniors taking this course to fulfill the senior requirement must give an oral presentation of their research at the end of the term. Students who take this course more than once must reapply each term; students planning to conduct two terms of research should consider enrolling in MCDB 485a, 486b. Students should line up a research laboratory during the term preceding the research. Guidelines for the course should be obtained from the office of the director of undergraduate studies or downloaded from the Classes server. Written proposals are due Friday, September 9, for the fall term and Tuesday, January 17, for the spring term. Fulfills the senior requirement for the B.A. degree if taken in the senior year.

*MCDB 485a, 495b. Senior Research. Staff. HTBA
Individual two-term laboratory research projects under the supervision of a faculty member. Students are expected to spend ten to twelve hours per week in the laboratory, and to make presentations to students and advisers at monthly discussion groups. Written assignments include a short research proposal summary due at the beginning of the first term, a grant proposal due at the end of the first term, and a research report summarizing experimental results due at the end of the second term. Students are also required to present their research in either the fall or the spring term. A poster session is held at the end of the spring term. Students should line up a research laboratory during the term preceding the research. Guidelines for the course should be obtained from the office of the director of undergraduate studies or downloaded from the Classes server. Written proposals are due Friday, September 9. Fulfills the senior requirement if taken in the senior year. Additional sections offered in Beijing, China, under the supervision of Xing-Wang Deng. See under Peking University-Yale University Joint Undergraduate Program.

*MCDB 495a, 496b. Intensive Senior Research. Staff. HTBA
Qualified students may undertake directed research in some field of biology during the senior year. Before registering for this course, the student must be accepted for a research project by a Yale faculty member with a research program in experimental biology and obtain the approval of the instructor in charge of the course. Students spend approximately twenty hours per week in the laboratory, and make written and oral presentations of their research to students and advisers. Written assignments include a short research proposal summary due at the beginning of the first term, a grant proposal due at the end of the first term, and a research report summarizing experimental results due at the end of the second term. Students must attend a minimum of three research seminar sessions (including their own) per term. Students are also required to present their research during both the fall and spring terms. A poster session is held at the end of the spring term. Guidelines for the course are covered in detail in an information sheet that students should obtain from the office of the director of undergraduate studies early in the final term of the junior year. A written proposal must be submitted by Friday, September 9. Fulfills the senior requirement and leads to the intensive B.S. degree.

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MCDB GRADUATE COURSES

MCDB 505a/GENE 705a/MB&B 705aU. Molecular Genetics of Prokaryotes. Nigel Grindley MW 11.35-12.50
Molecular aspects of the storage, replication, evolution, and expression of genetic material in prokaryotes.

MCDB 602a/CBIO 602a/MB&B 602a. Molecular Cell Biology. Sandra Wolin, Thomas Pollard, Craig Crews, and faculty
MW 1.45-3.00 A comprehensive introduction to the molecular and mechanistic aspects of cell biology for graduate students in all programs. Emphasizes fundamental issues of cellular organization, regulation, biogenesis, and function at the molecular level.

MCDB 603a/CBIO 603a. Seminar in Molecular Cell Biology. Sandra Wolin, Thomas Pollard, Craig Crews, and faculty
TH 9.00-11.00 A graduate-level seminar course in modern cell biology. The class is devoted to the reading and critical evaluation of classical and current papers. The topics are coordinated with the MCDB 602a lecture schedule. Thus, concurrent or previous enrollment in MCDB 602a is required.

MCDB 630b/MB&B 630b. Biochemical and Biophysical Approaches in Molecular and Cellular Biology. Thomas Pollard and staff
TTh 2.30-3.45 This graduate course introduces the theory and application of biochemical and biophysical methods to study the structure and function of biological macromolecules. The course considers the basic physical chemistry required in cellular and molecular biology but does not require a previous course in physical chemistry. One class per week is a lecture introducing a topic. The second class is a discussion of one or two research papers utilizing those methods.

[MCDB 642a/EMD 642a/GENE 642a/MBIO 642a, Roles of Microorganisms in the Living World]

MCDB 660a. Structure, Function, and Development of Vascular Plants. Graeme Berlyn TTh 4.00-5.20
Morphogenesis and adaptation of vascular plants considered from seed formation and germination to maturity. Physiological and developmental processes associated with structural changes in response to environment discussed from both a phylogenetic and an adaptive point of view.

MCDB 670b. Advanced Seminar in Biochemistry and Genetics. Sidney Altman, Ronald Breaker, Stephen Dellaporta, Frank Slack
TTh 2.30-3.45 New aspects of the molecular biology of RNA, ribonucleoproteins, and prions. Topics include the localization and function of RNA and ribonucleoproteins; the role of RNA in dosage compensation, chromosome silencing, and gene regulation; novel ribozymes and RNA technology; prions. Discussion; involvement and attendance are required.

MCDB 677b/GENE 777b. Mechanisms of Development. Valerie Reinke and faculty M 9.00-10.15, F 2.30-3.45
An advanced course on the mechanisms of animal development focusing on the genetic specification of cell organization and identity during embryogenesis and somatic differentiation. The use of evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways to carry out developmental decisions in a range of animals is highlighted. Course work includes student presentations, critical analysis of primary literature, and a research proposal term paper.

MCDB 743b/GENE 743b/MB&B 743bU. Advanced Eukaryotic Molecular Biology. Mark Hochstrasser, Anthony Koleske, Patrick Sung
TTh 11.35-12.50 Selected topics in transcriptional control, regulation of chromatin structure, mRNA processing, mRNA stability, RNA interference, translation, protein degradation, DNA replication, DNA repair, site-specific DNA recombination, somatic hypermutation. Prerequisite: biochemistry or permission of the instructor.

MCDB 750a/CB & B750a. Core Topics in Biomedical Informatics. Perry Miller and staff HTBA
Introduction to common unifying themes that serve as the foundation for different areas of biomedical informatics, including clinical, neuro-, and genome informatics. The course is designed for students with significant computer experience and course work who plan to build computational tools for use in bioscience research. Emphasis is on understanding basic principles underlying informatics approaches to biomedical data modeling, interoperation among biomedical databases and software tools, standardized biomedical vocabularies and ontologies, modeling of biological systems, and other topics of interest. The course involves lectures, class discussions, student presentations, and computer programming assignments. Prerequisite: previous computer programming experience and permission of the instructor.

MCDB 900a/CBIO 900a/GENE 900a. First-Year Introduction to Research. Frank Slack and faculty
HTBA Lab rotations, grant writing, and ethics for Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics, and Development track students.

MCDB 901b/CBIO 901b/GENE 901b. First-Year Introduction to Research. Karin Reinisch, Matthew State
TH 4.15-5.15 Lab rotations and ethics for Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics, and Development track students.

MCDB 950a and 951b. Second-Year Research. By arrangement with faculty.

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EEB COURSES

MCDB 106a, Biology of Malaria, Lyme, and Other Vector-Borne Diseases. Belperron
Introduction to the biology of pathogen transmission from one organism to another by insects; special focus on malaria and Lyme disease. Modes of transmission and establishment of infection; immune responses and the associated challenges to prevention and treatment and the development of vaccines.
Intended for non–science majors.
Prerequisite: high school biology.

EEB 122b / EEB 522b, Principles of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior. Stearns
M W F 11.35-12:25 WR,Sc (34)
Principles of evolution, ecology, and behavior explained and illustrated by recent advances that have changed the field. Emphasis on major events in the history and key transitions in the organization of life. Ecological processes from organisms through populations and communities to the biosphere. Foraging, mating, and selfish and cooperative behavior placed in evolutionary and ecological context.
Recommended preparation: MCDB 120a or equivalent.

EEB 123Lb / EEB 523Lb, Laboratory for Principles of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior.
T W Th 1:30-5:00 Sc(0) Wells
Experimental approaches to organismal and population biology, including study of the diversity of life.
Concurrently with or after E&EB 122b.

EEB 125b / G&G 125b, History of Life. Briggs, Gauthier
T Th 11:35-12:50 Sc (24)
Examination of fossil and geologic evidence pertaining to the origin, evolution, and history of life on Earth. Emphasis on major events in the history of life, on what the fossil record reveals about the evolutionary process, on the diversity of ancient and living organisms, and on the evolutionary impact of Earth's changing environment.

EEB 160a, Diversity of Life. Clement
T Th 2:30-3:45 Sc (37)
A survey of the diversity of organisms on Earth with a focus on their evolutionary history, biology, and adaptations to their environment.

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INTERMEDIATE EEB COURSES

EEB202a / MCDB202a Genetics. Roeder, Powell
T Th 11:35-12:50
An introduction to classical, molecular, and population genetics of both prokaryotes and eukaryotes and their central importance in biological sciences. Emphasis on analytical approaches and techniques of genetics used to investigate mechanisms of heredity and variation. Topics include transmission genetics, cytogenetics, DNA structure and function, recombination, gene mutation, selection, and recombinant DNA technology.

EEB 210a / EEB 510a, Introduction to Statistics: Life Sciences. Reuning-Scherer, Wagner
T Th 1:00-2:15 Qr (26)
Statistical and probabilistic analysis of biological problems presented with a unified foundation in basic statistical theory. Problems are drawn from genetics, ecology, epidemiology, and bioinformatics.

EEB 220a / EEB 520a, General Ecology. Post
M W F 10:30-11:20 Sc (33)
The theory and practice of ecology, including the ecology of individuals, population dynamics and regulation, community structure, ecosystem function, and ecological interactions at broad spatial and temporal scales. Topics such as climate change, fisheries management, and infectious diseases are placed in an ecological context.
Prerequisite: MATH 112a or b or equivalent.

EEB 225b / EEB 525b, Evolutionary Biology. Monteiro, Townsend
T Th 11:35-12:50 Sc (24)
An overview of evolutionary biology as the discipline uniting all of the life sciences. Reading and discussion of scientific papers to explore the dynamic aspects of evolutionary biology. Principles of population genetics, paleontology, and systematics; application of evolutionary thinking in disciplines such as developmental biology, ecology, microbiology, molecular biology, and human medicine.
Recommended preparation: E&EB 122b.

EEB 226L / EEB 526Lb, Laboratory for Evolutionary Biology. Caccone
W 1:30-4:30 Sc (0)
The companion laboratory to E&EB 225b. Patterns and processes of evolution, including collection and interpretation of molecular and morphological data in a phylogenetic context. Focus on methods of analysis of species-level and population-level variation in natural populations.
Concurrently with or after E&EB 225b or with permission of instructor.

EEB 235a / EEB 535a, Evolution and Medicine. Stearns
M W F 11:35-12:20 Sc (0) Perm. req.
Survey of evolutionary insights that make important differences in medical research and clinical practice, including evolutionary mechanisms and the medical issues they affect. Individual genetic variation in susceptibility; evolutionary conflicts and tradeoffs in reproductive medicine; the evolution of antibiotic resistance and virulence in pathogens; emerging diseases; the evolution of aging; cancer as an evolutionary process.
After MCDB 120a or E&EB 122b, or with permission of instructor.

EEB 228bG / EEB 728b, Infectious Diseases. Turner
T Th 10:30-11:20 1 HTBA Sc (0)
Overview of the ecology and evolution of pathogens (bacteria, viruses, protozoa) and their impact on host populations. Topics include theoretical concepts, ecological and evolutionary dynamics, molecular biology, and epidemiology of ancient and emerging diseases.
Prerequisite: E&EB 122b or permission of instructor

EEB 246b / EEB 546b Plant Diversity and Evolution. Clement
M W 1.00-2.15 Sc (0)
Introduction to the evolutionary relationships of plant lineages. The complexity, diversity, and characteristics of the major plant groups, including the green algae, mosses, ferns, conifers, and flowering plants, within a phylogenetic context.
To be taken concurrently with E&EB 247Lb. Prerequisite: a general understanding of introductory biology and evolution.

EEB 247Lb / EEB 547Lb, Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Evolution. Clement
T 1:00-4:00 Sc (26)
Local flora field research; hands-on experience with the plant groups examined in the accompanying lectures.
To be taken concurrently with E&EB 246b.

EEB 250a / EEB 550a, Biology of Terrestrial Arthropods. Wells
T Th 11:35-12:50 Sc (24)
Evolutionary history and diversity of terrestrial arthropods (body plan, phylogenetic relationships, fossil record); physiology and functional morphology (water relations, thermoregulation, energetics of flying and singing); reproduction (biology of reproduction, life cycles, metamorphosis, parental care); behavior (migration, communication, mating systems, evolution of sociality); ecology (parasitism, mutualism, predator-prey interactions, competition, plant-insect interactions).
After E&EB 122b.

EEB 251La, / EEB 551La, Laboratory for Biology of Terrestrial Arthropods. Buss
W 1:30-5:00 Sc (0)
Comparative anatomy, dissections, identification, and classification of terrestrial arthropods; specimen collection; field trips.
Concurrently with or after E&EB 250a.

EEB 255b / EEB 555b, Invertebrates I. Buss
M W 11:35-12:50
A systematic treatment of the invertebrate phyla, with emphasis on anatomy, functional organization, and evolutionary history.
After E&EB 122b or G&G 125b or with permission of instructor.

EEB 256b / EEB 556Lb, Laboratory for Invertebrates I. Buss
Th 1:30-4:00 Sc
Study of the anatomy of representative living invertebrates accompanied by examination of museum specimens of living and fossil invertebrates.
Concurrently with E&EB 255b.

EEB 264a / EEB 546a, Ichthyology. Near
M W F 1:30-2:20
A survey of fish diversity, including jawless vertebrates, chimaeras and sharks, lungfishes, and ray-finned fishes. Topics include the evolutionary origin of vertebrates, the fossil record of fishes, evolutionary diversification of major extant fish lineages, biogeography, ecology, and reproductive strategies of fishes.

EEB 265La / EEB 565La, Laboratory for Ichthyology. Near
T 1:30-4:30 Sc (26)
Laboratory and field studies of fish diversity, form, function, behavior, and classification. The course primarily involves study of museum specimens and of living and fossil fishes.
Concurrently with E&EB 264a.

E&EB 272b / EEB 672b, Ornithology. Prum
M W F 9:25-10:15 Sc (32)
An overview of avian biology and evolution, including the structure, function, behavior, and diversity of birds. The evolutionary origin of birds, avian phylogeny, anatomy, physiology, neurobiology, breeding systems, and biogeography.

EEB 273Lb / EEB 673Lb, Laboratory for Ornithology. Prum
T 1:30-4:30 Sc Perm. req. (0)
Laboratory and field studies of avian morphology, diversity, phylogeny, classification, identification, and behavior.

EEB 275a / EEB 575 / EVST 400, Biological Oceanography. Decker
T Th 11:35-12:50 1 HTBA (34) Perm. req.
Exploration of a range of coastal and pelagic ecosystems. Relationships between biological systems in the ocean and the physical processes that control the stratification and movements of water. Anthropogenic impacts on oceans, such as the effects of fishing, aquaculture, and global warming. Includes three optional Friday field trips.
Enrollment limited to 15.

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ADVANCED EEB COURSES

EEB 310b / EEB 610b, Evolutionary Genetics. Powell
T Th 2:30-4:30
Introduction to population genetics and phylogenetics. Theoretical fundamentals and empirical data, with an emphasis on molecular aspects.

EEB 390aG / EEB 690a, Evolution of Development. Monteiro
T Th 9:00-10:15
An introduction to the ways that developmental mechanisms change through time to give rise to organismal diversity. Topics include how mutations influence the processes of gene regulation, tissue growth, and cell and organ differentiation.

EEB 460b / E&EB 960b, Studies in Evolutionary Medicine I. Stearns, Fish, Galvani, Turner
T Th 4:00-5:15 Sc Perm. req. (0)
Principles of evolutionary biology applied to issues in medical research and practice, such as lactose and alcohol tolerance; the ?hygiene hypothesis?; genetic variation in drug response and pathogen resistance; spontaneous abortions, immune genes, and mate choice; the evolution of aging; the ecology and evolution of disease; and the emergence of new diseases. Students develop proposals for research to be conducted during the summer.
Admission by competitive application; forms are available on the EEB Web site.

EEB 461a / EEB 961a, Studies in Evolutionary Medicine II. Stearns, Turner
T Th 4:00-5:15
Continuation of E&EB 460b.
Prerequisite: E&EB 460b or with permission of instructor.

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EEB Research and Tutorials

EEB 470a or b, Tutorial. Wells
1 HTBA Perm. req.
Individual or small-group study for qualified students who wish to investigate an area of ecology or evolutionary biology not presently covered by regular courses. A student must be sponsored by a faculty member who sets requirements and meets weekly with the student. One or more written examinations and/or a term paper are required. To register, the student must submit a written plan of study approved by the faculty instructor to the director of undergraduate studies. Students are encouraged to apply during the term preceding the tutorial. The proposal must be submitted by Wednesday, September 9, for the fall term and Wednesday, January 20, for the spring term. The final paper is due in the hands of the director of undergraduate studies by Friday, December 11, for the fall term and Monday, April 26, for the spring term. In special cases, with approval of the director of undergraduate studies, this course may be elected for more than one term, but only one term will count as an elective for the major. Normally, faculty sponsors must be members of the EEB department.
One term of this course fulfills the senior requirement for the B.A. degree if taken in the senior year.

EEB 475a or b, Research. Wells
1 HTBA. Perm. req.
One term of original research in an area relevant to ecology or evolutionary biology. This may involve, for example, laboratory work, fieldwork, or mathematical or computer modeling. Students may also work in areas related to environmental biology such as policy, economics, or ethics. The research project may not be a review of relevant literature but must be original. In all cases students must have a faculty sponsor who oversees the research and is responsible for the rigor of the project. Students are expected to spend ten hours per week on their research projects. Using the form available from the office of undergraduate studies or from the Classes server, students must submit a research proposal that has been approved by the faculty sponsor to the director of undergraduate studies, preferably during the term preceding the research. Proposals are due Wednesday, September 9, for the fall term and Wednesday, January 20, for the spring term. The final research paper is due in the hands of the director of undergraduate studies by Friday, December 11, for the fall term and Monday, April 26, for the spring term.

EEB 495a or b, Intensive Senior Research. Wells
1 HTBA Perm. req.
Two terms of intensive original research during the senior year done under the sponsorship of a faculty member. Similar to other research courses except that a more substantial portion of the student’s time should be spent on the research project (an average of twenty hours per week). A research proposal approved by the sponsoring faculty member using the form available from the office of undergraduate studies or from the Classes server must be submitted to the director of undergraduate studies by September 9. Interim oral reports and a final written research paper are required. The final paper is due Monday, April 26.
Credit only on completion of both terms. Fulfills the senior requirement and leads to the intensive B.S. degree.

EEB 496 a or b, Intensive Senior Research. Wells
1 HTBA Perm. req.
Two terms of intensive original research during the senior year done under the sponsorship of a faculty member. Similar to other research courses except that a more substantial portion of the student’s time should be spent on the research project (an average of twenty hours per week). A research proposal approved by the sponsoring faculty member using the form available from the office of undergraduate studies or from the Classes server must be submitted to the director of undergraduate studies by September 9. Interim oral reports and a final written research paper are required. The final paper is due Monday, April 26.
Credit only on completion of both terms. Fulfills the senior requirement and leads to the intensive B.S. degree.

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EEB Graduate Courses

EEB500 a/b Advanced Topics. DGS
M 2:00-4:00

EEB 545b. Problems in Bioethics. DGS
M 2:00-4:00
Ethics course for Advanced Topics.

EEB 602a. Evolutionary inference of ancestral states. Townsend
Ancestral state inference is a technique of growing importance in phenotypic evolution, molecular evolutionary biology, and comparative genomics. This research-level course will cover computational methods for ancestral state inference and issues of experimental design and statistical power

EEB 930a / G&G 703a, Seminar in Semantics. Gauthier F 2:30-4. ESC 110

EEB 900 a/b. First Year Introduction to Research and Rotations. Turner

EEB 950 a/b. Second Year Research by arrangement with faculty. Turner

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Updated: August 15, 2011