In this Science Technology in Social Context (STSC) course, we will explore interactions between agricultural production, environmental quality, and human well-being. In addition to covering the science, technology, and ecology of food production, we will also discuss many important philosophical and ethical issues relating to food production and consumption such as pesticide usage, genetically modified food, animal welfare, and veganism. This course will enable identification of value conflicts and provide a framework for discussing them. [STSC, V, W]
An introduction to the scientific study of key biological principles governing the evolution of life. Students are introduced to three core concepts for biological literacy: evolution, structure and function, and systems biology. Core competencies developed in this course include the process of science as well as communicating across disciplinary boundaries. Topics include selective pressure and adaptation, how plants and animals function at the physiological and organismal level, as well as population and ecosystem processes. [NS]
An introduction to the scientific study of key biological principles governing cellular processes of life. Students are introduced to two core concepts for biological literacy: information flow and energy transformation at the molecular and cellular level. Core competencies developed in this course include the process of science as well as communicating across disciplinary boundaries. Topics emphasize incremental complexity of biological systems, relationships between structure and function, and their evolutionary implications. [NS]
An introduction to quantitative reasoning for biologists. Students are introduced to the core concept for biological literacy of systems biology. Core competencies developed in this course include the ability to use quantitative reasoning, modeling, and simulation. Topics include data organization, experimental design, statistical inference, data visualization and bioinformatics illustrated by biological examples and data sets. Learning how to use the statistical software package R will be a key component of the course.
In this course, students will learn about common types of miscommunication and misunderstandings associated with visual representation of data and about best practices for data visualization. Through a series of case studies, students will critically evaluate relevant data, the format of its presentation, and the impact the method of presentation has on the reader. Specifically, through critical analysis of the format of the graphs, figures, and tables students will determine whether the chosen methods enable straightforward, independent analysis or push the reader to accept the author's conclusions. Students will reformat the presentation of the data to determine whether other representations would reveal / support different conclusions. In a final project, students will use and build up on previous knowledge to analyze data to related to a global, national, or policy decision. [STSC]
A study of developmental processes at the cellular and molecular level and description of the stages through which an organism gains complexity. The laboratory features living vertebrate, invertebrate and plant examples of the processes discussed in lecture, as well as a student-designed research project.
This course explores the structure and function of vertebrate animals. Emphasis is placed on the form/function relationship, the evolution of anatomical specialization, and the comparative method.
An in-depth exploration of the vertebrate nervous system with emphasis on mammals and humans. Lectures detail the structure and function of the brain and spinal cord. The laboratory includes dissection, examination of prepared slides and other materials, and work with computer resources. In the experiential portion of the course, students use classical anatomical and modern molecular techniques to study the brain.
Plant diseases cause economic losses that exceed billions of dollars annually. This course is designed to introduce you to fundamental aspects underlying the biology of plant diseases caused by infectious organisms. In this course, we will discuss the concept of plant disease and its causal agents, the mechanisms employed by plant pathogens to colonize the host, the methods utilized by the plant to defend itself against pathogen attack, and the societal cost of plant diseases. [W]
This course will cover the general structure and organization of the plant body and the varied architectural alternatives that plants have evolved with respect to both form and function of growth and reproduction in each of the major terrestrial and aquatic biomes. The course is comprised of lectures, discussions, laboratories, guided and independent investigations, presentations, and field trips. Lecture and laboratory are integrated in the time allotted for this class.
The biology of microorganisms, emphasizing prokaryotic structure, growth and cultivation, metabolism, genetics and gene regulation. Lecture topics include bacteria-to-bacteria signaling, biofilms, secretion, and microbial diversity. Lectures are supplemented with readings from the primary literature. Laboratory exercises instruct studens on research techniques and provide ample time for open-ended exploration. [W]
A study of the relationships between organisms and their environment using empirical and theoretical ecological principles and methods. Emphasizes the scientific method, process of science, variation, hierarchical organization and integration. Laboratory and field exercises illustrate the theoretical concepts discussed in lecture and are writing-intensive. Lecture/discussion/laboratory. [W]
This course explores environmental issues using an applied ecology perspective. It emphasizes biological dynamics of human populations and our impact on local, regional and global ecosystems. Topics are multidisciplinary and problem-based learning is emphasized with biological approaches. We review ecological principles in human ecosystems, then explore topics such as environmental public health, ecological risk assessment, exposure to toxicants in the environment, wildlife regulation and management and technology's role in finding solutions to food production.
While recognizing the interrelatedness among different areas of environmental science, this course focuses on how biological and ecological applications relate to environmental issues. Emphasis is on how the human population impacts ecosystem function, giving attention both to population regulation mechanisms and to disruption/conservation of ecosystem processes. Laboratory exercises focus on classical applied ecology as well as field excursions targeting policy and management issues. Satisfies core component of Environmental Science minor. Lecture/laboratory.
An introduction to the principles of organic and molecular evolution. Topics include: genetic variation, natural selection, speciation, adaptation, diversification, biogeography, molecular evolution, and the mechanisms underlying each. Laboratory includes experimentation, computer simulation, and relevant reading/presentation of current primary literature in the field. Lecture/discussion/laboratory.
This course examines the immune system at the cellular and molecular level. After examining the basic architecture of the immune system, the course explores the specificity that allows your body to recognize and respond against a virtual unlimited number of potential pathogens. Additionally, the course investigates the development of vaccines and the inappropriate immune responses that lead to allergies and autoimmune disease. Lecture/laboratory.
This course uses a systems approach to human physiology. The functions of the major human organ systems and the physiological mechanisms by which these functions are controlled are considered. In addition to the lectures, there is a weekly laboratory section. Lecture/laboratory
This course focuses on the study of the hereditary principles that govern cellular processes, organismal development, biological diversity, and the evolutionary changes in populations. The goal of this course is to provide an in-depth understanding of these principles, from both Mendelian and molecular perspectives. Emphasis will be placed on the analysis of the experimental work that, over the years, has led to the current status of the discipline of Genetics. By identifying and discussing the most important aspects of a particular experiment (why it was conducted; which results were obtained), students are expected to establish the link between a concept and the scientific research supporting it. In the laboratory component of this course, model organisms will be utilized to help students become familiar with current methods of genetic analysis.
This course examines the field of neuroscience from a cellular and molecular perspective, with the neuron and neural networks as the focus of discussion and experimentation. After an intensive look at neuronal cell biology and signaling, the course examines the cellular basis of higher-order functions, such as sensation, behavior, and memory. Lecture/discussion/laboratory.
This course provides students with a comprehensive and integrative overview of biological perspectives on public health problems. An emphasis is placed on infectious and chronic disease case studies in the US and abroad. It will provide opportunities to: (1) apply practical knowledge about biological mechanisms to better understand the relationships between biological, behavioral, and environmental causes of health and disease, and (2) develop a new evidence-based public health intervention and education module. [W]
This course provides a comprehensive overview of probability and statistics in biological research. Discussion of statistical ideas rather than mathematical derivation is the focus of this course. Students will learn how to design experiments, collect and analyze data, and how to present results in graphical formats. Throughout the course, students will use basic to intermediate level of R programming to learn the above topics and to complete a group project. No programming experience is required. [Q]
Depending upon student and staff interests, one or more specialized areas of biology may be offered.
This course provides students with an introduction to the scientific basis of modern conservation biology and the application of these principles to conservations problems around the world.To understand the complexities involved in making conservation decisions, we will read from many sources,have class and small group discussions, and engage in debate. The objective of the laboratory portion of this course is to provide students with practical, problem-solving experiences in conservation biology beyond the classroom. Lecture/laboratory. [W]
The integration of genomic and information technologies makes many once thought unattainable scientific pursuits possible such as the human genome project. The era of bioinformatics has arrived. Fusing experimental and computational methods in studying complex biological questions becomes a routine process for today's biologists. This course provides a comprehensive overview of bioinformatics-the application of computational and information sciences in studying biology. The focus is to learn prevalent computational approaches used by research biologists.
This course explores both the proximate causal mechanisms (e.g., hormone levels, developmental conditions) and ultimate consequences (e.g., effects on survival or reproduction) of animal behaviors as they relate to navigating a complex and ever-changing environment. Topics include predator-prey interactions, relationships between habitat and optimal foraging strategies, sexual selection, navigation within physically variable environments, and a wide variety of social interactions. Laboratory involves both indoor and outdoor observations and experiments.
This course covers structure, function, and chemistry of cells, organelles, and membranes. Specific topics include cellular energetics, information flow in cells, cytoskeletal structure and functions, signal transduction mechanisms and cellular aspects of the immune response, and cancer. Students read selected topics of current importance in cell biology and present oral and written reports. Lecture/seminar/discussion/computer simulation.
Mathematical models are often used to gain insight into, and predict the future behavior of, biological systems, and have contributed to our understanding of phenomena as diverse as disease spread, population dynamics, evolution, conservation, collective motion, and many more. In this course we will survey a variety of mathematical models of biological systems and standard methods used to analyze them. Students will also create, analyze, and present their own mathematical model of a biological phenomenon. Lecture/laboratory.
As a consequence of human activity, the Earth’s biosphere is currently experiencing the 6th mass extinction event in the history of the planet. Why is there so much biodiversity to begin with and will be the large-scale environmental consequences of biodiversity loss? This class will blend lecture with open-ended discussion of peer-reviewed scientific papers to try to understand the answers to these questions. The first part of the course will focus on what drives biodiversity, while the second part will investigate the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem function. The papers we read will span a variety of organisms (e.g. rodents, trees, microbes, & invertebrates) and a variety of systems (e.g. deserts, forests, soils, & ponds).
In this course, we will study aging as a developmental process defined by changes in the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the brain as well as age-associated changes in behavior. We will also examine the biological basis of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, associated with the brain's aging process. The basis for our learning will be the formation of questions, discussions and review of the current literature, and field experiences with aging populations. [W]
An exploration of the conceptual approaches and modern experimental techniques used in functional morphology. Through a combination of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and biophysics, students explore the functional and evolutionary bases of vision in vertebrate animals. Practicum provides students an opportunity to critique primary literature and develop projects.
In this class, we will explore the specialized physiological processes animals have developed to meet environmental challenges, including being tolerant to drought, heat, low oxygen levels, freezing, and lack of food. After examining general physiological adaptations, we will use case studies from "extreme" animals for further exploration. Along with minimal lecturing, we will synthesize the primary literature while developing skills essential to professional scientists, including communication science, constructing research proposals, and defending opinions orally.
Cancer Biology is focused on the cell at the molecular level. Using cancer as a theme, and how normal cellular processes go awry leading to cellular transformation, you will learn about the architecture of the cell and how cells adapt to changes in their environment. Additionally, this course will cover how cells communicate, and differ in their relation to their structure and function.
Students gain familiarity with function and structure of freshwater ecosystems and ecological analysis of biota and abiotic parameters beyond the intermediate level by examining complex interrelationships and synthesizing findings according to theoretical models. Laboratory/practicum and lecture/seminar are fused by offering this course on our ''floating laboratory'' pontoon boat at Merrill Creek Reservoir, NJ. Students acquire skills and master techniques by interfacing with naturalists at MCR, enabling them to design, develop, propose and execute a research project with recommendations for environmental management, culminating in presentations to an open Program at the MCR Nature Center.
This course introduces students to topics in population genetics and molecular evolution, with particular emphasis on the experimental quantitation of genetic variation, molecular systematics, and the molecular evolution of genes. The main focus is to give students direct experience in the critical reading, evaluation, presentation, and discussion of primary literature in the field of evolutionary genetics.
This course is designed to give students an overview of the natural and social elements of ecological restoration. We will examine the entire process of restoration: goal setting, planning, implementation, experimentation and monitoring, adaptive restoration, and communication of results. We will cover the ecological foundations of restoration for populations, communities and ecosystems, and students will apply ecological theory to restoration practice by considering case studies and engaging in problem-based learning and field investigations. [W]
Extended exposure to immunology (following BIOL 245) covering various aspects of human pathogens and how the immune system handles them. Vaccines either in use, in trials, or under development are explored for each of the pathogens. Students read primary research articles and participate in discussions. Practicum provides hands-on opportunity to explore aspects of vaccine development. Lecture/practicum/discussion/seminar.
This course provides students interested in human health with a comprehensive overview of precision medicine (an approach that takes into account an individual’s biology, environment, and lifestyle). Each week students are introduced to a new “‘-omic/ome” (e.g. genomic/microbiome/exposome) and discuss how it can be used to address the ethical, legal, social, and public health implications of precision medicine. Students learn how to write a public health policy brief and deliver a medical grand rounds presentation. [W]
This course focuses on particular aspects of the structure and function of genomes. Topics covered in Genomics include approaches to studying genomes, anatomies of eukaryotic nuclear and prokaryotic genomes, synthesis of the transcriptome and proteome, regulation of genome activity, how genomes replicate and evolve, and the evolutionary relationships between genomes as determined by molecular phylogenetics. Using primary research literature, students analyze a specific topic in depth and present their findings in oral and written reports.
This course focuses on using genomic information, statistics and computational methods to study the relation between genomic variations and diseases. Students will learn major biomedical informatics approaches in translating the fount of genomic information into promising actionable treatment options through lectures, journal discussions, and project presentations. Major topics include human genome, genomic variations, genome-wide association study (GWAS), cancer genomics, microarray technology, next generation sequencing, pharmacogenomics, and personalized medicine.
Schools of fish, flocks of birds, ant colonies, and other animal groups often appear to be highly coordinated. For example, they can move together, respond to external stimuli as one unit, and focus their foraging efforts on the best food source around. This despite the fact that most often each individual only experiences its immediate surroundings and no clear leader exists. How does that work? In this course we will work to address this question.
Due to their small size, diverse metabolic capabilities, ability to tolerate environmental extremes, capacity for rapid evolution, and horizontal gene transfer, microbes thrive in nearly every environment on the planet Earth (and perhaps beyond!). This class will investigate a variety of topics within Microbial Ecology and Evolution by reading a discussing primary peer-reviewed scientific literature. Topics may include 1) Richard Lenski’s landmark Long-term E.coli evolution experiment, 2) How microbes cheat in group behavior, 3) How microbes cooperate though quorum sensing, 4) human and hyena microbiomes, 5) microbial regulation of soil carbon, 6) Microbes and the Gaia hypothesis.
Dependent upon student and staff interests, one or more specialized areas of biology are examined.
A limited number of juniors and seniors may conduct an in-depth investigation of a particular topic in biology under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Hours by arrangement.
This capstone course for Biology majors, is a culminating experience for seniors to integrate their learning. Students discuss how prior courses informed and altered their understanding of at least three of these five concepts: evolution; biological molecule structure and function; information flow, exchange, and storage; matter/energy pathways and transformations; and systems biology. In addition to metacognitive reflection, this course emphasizes higher-order thinking, communication skills, and societal problem-solving abilities through meaningful connections among different courses.
Majors with strong academic records and research potential are invited to become candidates for departmental honors toward the end of the first semester of their junior year. The courses consist of an original laboratory investigation and culminate in a thesis submitted at the end of the senior year and defended before the department staff and guests they may invite. Hours by arrangement. [one W credit only upon completion of both 495 and 496]