Courses

Courses

Spring 2007 Courses

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062. Evolution in America
Jon Allen M 8:00 - 9:25, W 8:00 - 9:25 Cleaveland-151
An examination of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection with a focus on the debate between creationism and evolution in America. The course will expose students to the basic tenets of evolution and the evidence for natural selection as a mechanism by which evolution takes place. The course will also provide a historical context for evolutionary thought from the years before Darwin through the 'Modern Synthesis' and up to the present day. This historical context will serve to frame the debate between creationism and evolution in the twentieth century and the controversy over 'Intelligent Design' in the twenty-first century.
068. Cancer Biology
Stephanie Richards M 11:30 - 12:25, W 11:30 - 12:25, F 11:30 - 12:25 Druckenmiller-016
Students examine the biological basis of cancer, including the role of oncogenes and tumor suppressors in regulating how the cell divides, how environmental agents and viruses can induce DNA mutations leading to cancerous growth, and the genetic basis of cancerous cells. Examine diagnostic procedures and explore emerging technologies that are developing new treatments based on cancer cell characteristics.
076. Viruses Subverting Life
William Steinhart M 2:30 - 3:55, W 2:30 - 3:55 Druckenmiller-004
An introduction to the science of virology including the process of virus infection, effects on the host, epidemic spread, control and treatment, public health issues and the impact on society, the evolutionary relationship between viruses and their hosts, and the uses of viruses in new genetic technologies. Comparison of literature for the public versus the professional. Class sessions include discussions of readings and video documentaries as well as occasional laboratory work.
085. From Brain to Behavior
Jennifer Morgan T 8:30 - 9:55, TH 8:30 - 9:55 Druckenmiller-004
All human social, cognitive, and sexual behaviors require complex functions of the nervous system. For example, the brain and spinal cord together work to control body movements, senses, learning and memory, language, emotions, dreaming, and all other complex thought processes. Surveys the biology underlying these nervous system functions. Diseases of the brain, drug actions, injury and repair are also discussed. Includes comparative examinations of nervous systems in other organisms.
102. Biological Principles II
Amy Johnson M 11:30 - 12:25, W 11:30 - 12:25, F 11:30 - 12:25 Druckenmiller-020
The second in a two-semester introductory biology sequence. Emphasizes fundamental biological principles extending from the physiological to the ecosystem level of living organisms. Topics include physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology, with a focus on developing quantitative skills as well as critical thinking and problem solving skills. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
LAB
Amy Johnson Lauren Deane W 1:00 - 3:55
The second in a two-semester introductory biology sequence. Emphasizes fundamental biological principles extending from the physiological to the ecosystem level of living organisms. Topics include physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology, with a focus on developing quantitative skills as well as critical thinking and problem solving skills. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
LAB
Amy Johnson Lauren Deane TH 8:30 - 11:25
The second in a two-semester introductory biology sequence. Emphasizes fundamental biological principles extending from the physiological to the ecosystem level of living organisms. Topics include physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology, with a focus on developing quantitative skills as well as critical thinking and problem solving skills. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
LAB
Amy Johnson Lauren Deane TH 1:00 - 3:55
The second in a two-semester introductory biology sequence. Emphasizes fundamental biological principles extending from the physiological to the ecosystem level of living organisms. Topics include physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology, with a focus on developing quantitative skills as well as critical thinking and problem solving skills. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
109. Introductory Biology
Nathaniel Wheelwright Stephanie Richards M 8:30 - 9:25, W 8:30 - 9:25, F 8:30 - 9:25 Druckenmiller-016
Lectures examine fundamental biological principles, from the subcellular to the ecosystem level. Topics include bioenergetics, structure-function relationships, cellular information systems, physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Laboratory sessions are intended to develop a deeper understanding of the techniques and methods of science by requiring students to design and conduct their own experiments. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
LAB
Pamela Bryer Nathaniel Wheelwright Stephanie Richards T 8:30 - 11:25
Lectures examine fundamental biological principles, from the subcellular to the ecosystem level. Topics include bioenergetics, structure-function relationships, cellular information systems, physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Laboratory sessions are intended to develop a deeper understanding of the techniques and methods of science by requiring students to design and conduct their own experiments. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
LAB
Pamela Bryer Nathaniel Wheelwright Stephanie Richards T 1:00 - 3:55
Lectures examine fundamental biological principles, from the subcellular to the ecosystem level. Topics include bioenergetics, structure-function relationships, cellular information systems, physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Laboratory sessions are intended to develop a deeper understanding of the techniques and methods of science by requiring students to design and conduct their own experiments. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
LAB
Pamela Bryer Nathaniel Wheelwright Stephanie Richards W 1:00 - 3:55
Lectures examine fundamental biological principles, from the subcellular to the ecosystem level. Topics include bioenergetics, structure-function relationships, cellular information systems, physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Laboratory sessions are intended to develop a deeper understanding of the techniques and methods of science by requiring students to design and conduct their own experiments. Lecture and weekly laboratory/discussion groups.
158. Perspectives in Environmental Science
John Lichter Dharanija Vasudevan T 10:00 - 11:25, TH 10:00 - 11:25 Druckenmiller-004
Functioning of the earth system is defined by the complex and fascinating interaction of processes within and between four principal spheres: land, air, water, and life. Leverages key principles of environmental chemistry and ecology to unravel the intricate connectedness of natural phenomena and ecosystem function. Fundamental biological and chemical concepts are used to understand the science behind the environmental dilemmas facing societies as a consequence of human activities. Laboratory sessions consist of local field trips, laboratory experiments, group research, case study exercises, and discussions of current and classic scientific literature.
LAB
John Lichter Dharanija Vasudevan Nancy Olmstead W 1:00 - 4:55
Functioning of the earth system is defined by the complex and fascinating interaction of processes within and between four principal spheres: land, air, water, and life. Leverages key principles of environmental chemistry and ecology to unravel the intricate connectedness of natural phenomena and ecosystem function. Fundamental biological and chemical concepts are used to understand the science behind the environmental dilemmas facing societies as a consequence of human activities. Laboratory sessions consist of local field trips, laboratory experiments, group research, case study exercises, and discussions of current and classic scientific literature.
LAB
John Lichter Dharanija Vasudevan Nancy Olmstead TH 1:00 - 4:55
Functioning of the earth system is defined by the complex and fascinating interaction of processes within and between four principal spheres: land, air, water, and life. Leverages key principles of environmental chemistry and ecology to unravel the intricate connectedness of natural phenomena and ecosystem function. Fundamental biological and chemical concepts are used to understand the science behind the environmental dilemmas facing societies as a consequence of human activities. Laboratory sessions consist of local field trips, laboratory experiments, group research, case study exercises, and discussions of current and classic scientific literature.
210. Plant Physiology
Barry Logan M 9:30 - 10:25, W 9:30 - 10:25, F 9:30 - 10:25 Druckenmiller-020
An introduction to the physiological processes that enable plants to grow under the varied conditions found in nature. General topics discussed include the acquisition, transport, and use of water and mineral nutrients, photosynthetic carbon assimilation, and the influence of environmental and hormonal signals on development and morphology. Adaptation and acclimation to extreme environments and other ecophysiological subjects are also discussed. Weekly laboratories reinforce principles discussed in lecture and expose students to modern research techniques.
LAB
Barry Logan Jaret Reblin T 1:00 - 3:55
An introduction to the physiological processes that enable plants to grow under the varied conditions found in nature. General topics discussed include the acquisition, transport, and use of water and mineral nutrients, photosynthetic carbon assimilation, and the influence of environmental and hormonal signals on development and morphology. Adaptation and acclimation to extreme environments and other ecophysiological subjects are also discussed. Weekly laboratories reinforce principles discussed in lecture and expose students to modern research techniques.
LAB
Barry Logan Jaret Reblin W 1:00 - 3:55
An introduction to the physiological processes that enable plants to grow under the varied conditions found in nature. General topics discussed include the acquisition, transport, and use of water and mineral nutrients, photosynthetic carbon assimilation, and the influence of environmental and hormonal signals on development and morphology. Adaptation and acclimation to extreme environments and other ecophysiological subjects are also discussed. Weekly laboratories reinforce principles discussed in lecture and expose students to modern research techniques.
LAB
Barry Logan Jaret Reblin F 1:30 - 4:25
An introduction to the physiological processes that enable plants to grow under the varied conditions found in nature. General topics discussed include the acquisition, transport, and use of water and mineral nutrients, photosynthetic carbon assimilation, and the influence of environmental and hormonal signals on development and morphology. Adaptation and acclimation to extreme environments and other ecophysiological subjects are also discussed. Weekly laboratories reinforce principles discussed in lecture and expose students to modern research techniques.
214. Comparative Physiology
Patsy Dickinson T 10:00 - 11:25, TH 10:00 - 11:25 Druckenmiller-020
An examination of animal function, from the cellular to the organismal level. The underlying concepts are emphasized, as are the experimental data that support our current understanding of animal function. Topics include the nervous system, hormones, respiration, circulation, osmoregulation, digestion, and thermoregulation. Labs are short, student-designed projects involving a variety of instrumentation. Lectures and four hours of laboratory work per week.
LAB
Patsy Dickinson Stephen Hauptman T 1:00 - 4:55
An examination of animal function, from the cellular to the organismal level. The underlying concepts are emphasized, as are the experimental data that support our current understanding of animal function. Topics include the nervous system, hormones, respiration, circulation, osmoregulation, digestion, and thermoregulation. Labs are short, student-designed projects involving a variety of instrumentation. Lectures and four hours of laboratory work per week.
LAB
Patsy Dickinson Stephen Hauptman W 1:00 - 4:55
An examination of animal function, from the cellular to the organismal level. The underlying concepts are emphasized, as are the experimental data that support our current understanding of animal function. Topics include the nervous system, hormones, respiration, circulation, osmoregulation, digestion, and thermoregulation. Labs are short, student-designed projects involving a variety of instrumentation. Lectures and four hours of laboratory work per week.
216. Evolution
Michael Palopoli M 10:30 - 11:25, W 10:30 - 11:25, F 10:30 - 11:25 Druckenmiller-016
Examines one of the most breathtaking ideas in the history of science—that all life on this planet descended from a common ancestor. An understanding of evolution illuminates every subject in biology, from molecular biology to ecology. Provides a broad overview of evolutionary ideas, including the modern theory of evolution by natural selection, evolution of sexual reproduction, patterns of speciation and macro-evolutionary change, evolution of sexual dimorphisms, selfish genetic elements, and kin selection. Laboratory sessions are devoted to semester-long, independent research projects.
LAB
Michael Palopoli Lesley Gordon T 1:00 - 3:55
Examines one of the most breathtaking ideas in the history of science—that all life on this planet descended from a common ancestor. An understanding of evolution illuminates every subject in biology, from molecular biology to ecology. Provides a broad overview of evolutionary ideas, including the modern theory of evolution by natural selection, evolution of sexual reproduction, patterns of speciation and macro-evolutionary change, evolution of sexual dimorphisms, selfish genetic elements, and kin selection. Laboratory sessions are devoted to semester-long, independent research projects.
LAB
Michael Palopoli Lesley Gordon W 1:00 - 3:55
Examines one of the most breathtaking ideas in the history of science—that all life on this planet descended from a common ancestor. An understanding of evolution illuminates every subject in biology, from molecular biology to ecology. Provides a broad overview of evolutionary ideas, including the modern theory of evolution by natural selection, evolution of sexual reproduction, patterns of speciation and macro-evolutionary change, evolution of sexual dimorphisms, selfish genetic elements, and kin selection. Laboratory sessions are devoted to semester-long, independent research projects.
218. Microbiology
Anne McBride M 10:30 - 11:25, W 10:30 - 11:25, F 10:30 - 11:25 Druckenmiller-004
An examination of the structure and function of microorganisms, from viruses to bacteria to fungi, with an emphasis on molecular descriptions. Subjects covered include microbial structure, metabolism, and genetics. Control of microoganisms and environmental interactions are also discussed. Laboratory sessions every week.
LAB
Anne McBride Elizabeth Richards T 1:00 - 3:55
An examination of the structure and function of microorganisms, from viruses to bacteria to fungi, with an emphasis on molecular descriptions. Subjects covered include microbial structure, metabolism, and genetics. Control of microoganisms and environmental interactions are also discussed. Laboratory sessions every week.
LAB
Anne McBride Elizabeth Richards W 1:00 - 3:55
An examination of the structure and function of microorganisms, from viruses to bacteria to fungi, with an emphasis on molecular descriptions. Subjects covered include microbial structure, metabolism, and genetics. Control of microoganisms and environmental interactions are also discussed. Laboratory sessions every week.
LAB
Anne McBride Elizabeth Richards TH 1:00 - 3:55
An examination of the structure and function of microorganisms, from viruses to bacteria to fungi, with an emphasis on molecular descriptions. Subjects covered include microbial structure, metabolism, and genetics. Control of microoganisms and environmental interactions are also discussed. Laboratory sessions every week.
224. Biochemistry and Cell Biology
Bruce Kohorn T 8:30 - 9:55, TH 8:30 - 9:55 Druckenmiller-020
Focuses on the structure and function of cells as we have come to know them through the interpretation of direct observations and experimental results. Emphasis is on the scientific (thought) processes that have allowed us to understand what we know today, emphasizing the use of genetic, biochemical, and optical analysis to understand fundamental biological processes. Covers details of the organization and expression of genetic information, and the biosynthesis, sorting, and function of cellular components within the cell. Concludes with examples of how cells perceive signals from other cells within cell populations, tissues, organisms, and the environment. Three hours of lab each week.
LAB
Bruce Kohorn Peter Schlax Jr T 1:00 - 3:55
Focuses on the structure and function of cells as we have come to know them through the interpretation of direct observations and experimental results. Emphasis is on the scientific (thought) processes that have allowed us to understand what we know today, emphasizing the use of genetic, biochemical, and optical analysis to understand fundamental biological processes. Covers details of the organization and expression of genetic information, and the biosynthesis, sorting, and function of cellular components within the cell. Concludes with examples of how cells perceive signals from other cells within cell populations, tissues, organisms, and the environment. Three hours of lab each week.
LAB
Bruce Kohorn Peter Schlax Jr W 1:00 - 3:55
Focuses on the structure and function of cells as we have come to know them through the interpretation of direct observations and experimental results. Emphasis is on the scientific (thought) processes that have allowed us to understand what we know today, emphasizing the use of genetic, biochemical, and optical analysis to understand fundamental biological processes. Covers details of the organization and expression of genetic information, and the biosynthesis, sorting, and function of cellular components within the cell. Concludes with examples of how cells perceive signals from other cells within cell populations, tissues, organisms, and the environment. Three hours of lab each week.
LAB
Bruce Kohorn Peter Schlax Jr TH 1:00 - 3:55
Focuses on the structure and function of cells as we have come to know them through the interpretation of direct observations and experimental results. Emphasis is on the scientific (thought) processes that have allowed us to understand what we know today, emphasizing the use of genetic, biochemical, and optical analysis to understand fundamental biological processes. Covers details of the organization and expression of genetic information, and the biosynthesis, sorting, and function of cellular components within the cell. Concludes with examples of how cells perceive signals from other cells within cell populations, tissues, organisms, and the environment. Three hours of lab each week.
255. Human Genetics
William Steinhart T 11:30 - 12:55, TH 11:30 - 12:55 Druckenmiller-004
The genetics of humans is examined at all levels, from molecular to population. Topics include the inheritance of mutations, multifactorial traits, phenotypic variation, genomics and gene therapy. Discussions focus on case studies, genetic counseling, the impact of biotechnology, and theories of human evolution. Includes student-led seminars.
263. Laboratory in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
Katherine Farnham M 2:30 - 3:55 Druckenmiller-110
Comprehensive laboratory course in molecular biology and biochemistry that reflects how research is conducted and communicated. Includes sequential weekly experiments, resulting in a cohesive, semester-long research project. Begins with genetic engineering to produce a recombinant protein, continues with its purification, and finishes with functional and structural characterization. Emphasis is on cloning strategy, controlling protein expression, and protein characterization using techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, affinity chromatography, isoelectric focusing and high-performance liquid chromatography. Students also learn to man
LAB
Katherine Farnham T 1:00 - 4:55
Comprehensive laboratory course in molecular biology and biochemistry that reflects how research is conducted and communicated. Includes sequential weekly experiments, resulting in a cohesive, semester-long research project. Begins with genetic engineering to produce a recombinant protein, continues with its purification, and finishes with functional and structural characterization. Emphasis is on cloning strategy, controlling protein expression, and protein characterization using techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, affinity chromatography, isoelectric focusing and high-performance liquid chromatography. Students also learn to man
LAB
Katherine Farnham W 1:00 - 4:55
Comprehensive laboratory course in molecular biology and biochemistry that reflects how research is conducted and communicated. Includes sequential weekly experiments, resulting in a cohesive, semester-long research project. Begins with genetic engineering to produce a recombinant protein, continues with its purification, and finishes with functional and structural characterization. Emphasis is on cloning strategy, controlling protein expression, and protein characterization using techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, affinity chromatography, isoelectric focusing and high-performance liquid chromatography. Students also learn to man
266. Molecular Neurobiology
Hadley Horch T 11:30 - 12:55, TH 11:30 - 12:55 Kanbar Hall - 109
Examination of the molecular control of neuronal structure and function. Topics include the molecular basis of neuronal excitability, the factors involved in chemical and contact-mediated neuronal communication, and the complex molecular control of developing and regenerating nervous systems. Weekly laboratories complement lectures by covering a range of molecular and cellular techniques used in neurobiology and culminate in brief independent projects. A weekend at the Nerve Net Science Meeting is required.
316. Coastal Ecology
Sherri Cooper M 2:30 - 3:55, W 2:30 - 3:55 Druckenmiller-020
The ecology of coastal waters with implications for management. Focus on estuaries, salt marshes, mangroves and seagrass systems, as well as local rocky shores and shelf ecosystems. Physical properties, biota, and ecological interactions will all be researched using journal articles, textbook, videos and computer programs. Current research on human impacts in time and space on a worldwide basis, including climate change and sea level fluctuations will also be investigated. Individual research papers and presentations required, with additional field trip requirement. The class will explore whole ecosystem approaches to managing coastal ecosystems for the future.
318. Cell Biology of the Neuron
Jennifer Morgan M 1:00 - 2:25, W 1:00 - 2:25 Druckenmiller-241
Neurons in the brain and spinal cord receive input from the environment and then generate responses in ways that govern our movements, sensations, and every thought. This course will explore the biological basis underlying these responses at the level of single neurons. An emphasis will be placed on synapses, the contact sites where neuronal communication occurs. Topics covered include: synaptic transmission, development, sensory synapses, synaptic plasticity during learning and memory, neuronal regeneration, and synapses as targets of drugs and disease. Primary literature papers serve as the basis for class discussions.
329. Neuronal Regeneration
Hadley Horch T 1:00 - 3:55 Druckenmiller-110
The consequences of neuronal damage in humans, especially in the brain and spinal cord, are frequently devastating and permanent. Invertebrates, on the other hand, are often capable of complete functional regeneration. Examines the varied responses to neuronal injury in a range of species. Topics include neuronal regeneration in planaria, insects, amphibians, and mammals. Students read and discuss original papers from the literature in an attempt to understand the basis of the radically different regenerative responses mounted by a variety of neuronal systems.
332. Stem Cell Biology
Nicole Theodosiou W 1:00 - 3:55 Druckenmiller-110
Current research in stem cell biology hints at great promise for regenerative medicine, though the field is mired in political and ethical conflict. In this course, students learn to read, discuss and analyze original papers from the literature to understand stem cell regulatory mechanisms with examples taken from planaria, insects, worms and mammals. Topics include stem cell niches, pluripotency, relationships to cancer and aging, and therapeutic technologies under development.
397. Advanced Winter Field Ecology
Nathaniel Wheelwright F 9:30 - 5:30
Exploration of advanced concepts in ecology and evolutionary biology, and the natural history of plants, animals, and ecosystems in winter in Maine. Structured around group research projects in the field. Each week, field trips focus on a different study site, set of questions, and taxon (e.g., host specificity in wood fungi, foraging behavior of aquatic insects, estimation of mammal population densities, winter flocking behavior in birds). Students learn to identify local winter flora and fauna, evaluate readings from the primary literature, analyze data from field research projects, and present their results each week in a research seminar. Field trip to the Bowdoin Scientific Station on Kent Island.

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