Biology Course Descriptions

BIOL1101 Life on Earth (SI-L)

This introductory biology course is designed primarily for non-science majors seeking an understanding of life processes. Topics include cellular structure, metabolism, genetics, genetic engineering, human systems, plant structure and function, evolution, and ecology. Laboratories include experiments, demonstrations and films to illustrate these phenomena. Three hours lecture, two hours laboratory.
Fall semester. 4 credits

BIOL1102  Human Biology (SI-L)

This course covers selected topics in human biology, chosen for their unique importance in the lives of women and men. Biological similarities and differences between females and males at all stages of life are considered. Topics discussed include basic anatomy and physiology, genetics, sexuality, reproduction, endocrinology, special nutritional considerations and medical problems of women and men. Laboratory exercises using models, slides and experiments supplement the lecture topics. Three hours lecture, two hours laboratory.
Spring semester. 4 credits

BIOL1103  Human Biology no-lab (SI)

This is the same course as BIOL1102, but without the laboratory component. This course covers selected topics in human biology, chosen for their unique importance in the lives of women and men. Biological similarities and differences between females and males at all stages of life are considered. Topics discussed include basic anatomy and physiology, genetics, sexuality, reproduction, endocrinology, special nutritional considerations and medical problems of women and men.  Three hours lecture.
Spring semester. 4 credits

BIOL1105  Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology (SI-L)

This is the first of a two-semester introductory biology course intended for, but not limited to, students considering a biology major. Beginning with the key molecules of the cell, the course moves from molecular to cellular while illustrating key concepts with examples from human diseases such as cystic fibrosis, myasthenia gravis, rhematoid arthritis, and cancer. Topics include: the role of carbohydrates in cellular activity, illustrated by glucose regulation and diabetes; signaling molecules and signal transduction; transport across membranes into and out of cellular compartments; protein structure and function; how cells regulate enzymes; cellular receptors for hormones, neurotransmitters and growth factors; and inheritance, DNA, and the molecular biology of transcription and translation. The laboratory stresses problem solving with a variety of exercises. Students learn to use molecular visualization software (JMOL, Protein Explorer) for analysis and study of DNA and proteins. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Fall semester. 4 credits
Required of all biology majors, unless exempted by departmental permission.

BIOL1106  Introduction to Organismic and Evolutionary Biology (SI-L)

This course surveys the kinds of living organisms found on the planet and investigates the evolutionary relationship between them. Emphasis is placed on structure, function and experimentation at the organismal level. Although this course is the logical successor to BIOL1105, there is no requirement that BIOL1105 precede it, although previous coursework in biology is beneficial. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Spring semester. 4 credits
Required of all biology majors, unless exempted by departmental permission.

BIOL1110  Human Anatomy and Physiology I (SI-L)

This combined course in anatomy and physiology covers the basic structure and function of the human body. The topics covered include cellular anatomy and physiology, the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system and the special senses. Laboratory exercises may include dissection, computer simulations and experiments in human physiology. This Human Anatomy and Physiology I course is for non-biology majors; it does not count toward the requirements for a major in biology. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Fall semester. 4 credits

BIOL1111  Human Anatomy and Physiology II (SI-L)

This is a continuation of the first semester course BIOL1110. The topics covered include the circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, endocrine system and reproductive system. Laboratory exercises may include dissection, computer simulations and experiments in human physiology. This Human Anatomy and Physiology II course is for non-biology majors; it does not count toward the requirements for a major in biology. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Spring semester. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL1110 or permission of instructor

BIOL1112  Biology and Society (SI)

The course focuses on decision-making in scientific and technological issues and the importance of civic responsibility around science. This course explores the important roles of biology and scientists in society historically and currently and the potential for the future. The nature of science is studied with applications to different scientific and technological disciplines. Specific aspects of biology in genetics and ecology are considered, as well as appropriate ways of understanding and assessing science. Ethical issues, such as risks for genetic discrimination and inequities in the urban environment, are discussed.  Each student chooses a current scientific issue to research and develops an action plan for implementing education or change at the town, state, country or international level.
Fall semester, alternate years, expected fall 2007. 4 credits

BIOL2105 Plant Biology

The objective of this course is to provide students with a thorough understanding of the morphology, anatomy, and physiology of plants. The initial emphasis is on the "lower" or more primitive species such as the algae, mosses and ferns.  The bulk of the semester is spent on an in-depth consideration of the "higher" or more evolved plants, specifically the angiosperms (flowering plants) and gymnosperms (cone bearing plants). Particular emphasis is accorded the angiosperms because of their abundance and economic importance. Of the approximately 325,000 known plant species on earth, roughly 230,000 are angiosperms and practically all of the economically important plants (those used for food, drugs, fibers, etc.) fall into this group. The laboratory is an opportunity to obtain first-hand experimental and observational information about living plants. Much of the lab work is done in the rooftop greenhouse where students gain practical greenhouse experience. Collaborative groups of 3-4 students design and implement experiments to determine the required factors for seed germination. Later specific examples of representative flora are studied in the lab and experiments are set up to investigate the role of mineral nutrients, light, gravity, and plant hormones on plant growth and development. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2009. 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL1105 and BI0L1106 or permission of instructor

BIOL2106 Economic Botany

Economic Botany is a consideration of the unique and essential relationship that has developed between plants and humanity since the dawn of agriculture. It is an effort to understand the profound influence of plants on our economic, cultural and political history.
Spring semester, alternate years. 4 credits.
Prerequisite: College level biology course or permission of instructor.

BIOL2107 Ecology

Ecology is the study of the relationships which exist between living things and the environment. Students examine the ecosystem from the simplest level (a species) to the most complex (the biosphere). An understanding of ecology is of importance not only because it tells us how the world works, but more pragmatically because it gives us information for dealing with the changes (both good and bad) that have been brought about by human activity on the earth. Air and water pollution, climate change, human overpopulation, diminishing fossil fuels, extinction of species all represent problems of the human species brought about primarily by its own activities. During the first four weeks of the semester the outdoor laboratory of the Back Bay Fens is our primary source of data. Armed with a map and a notebook for recording observations, student groups of 3-4 each become intimately familiar with the flora, fauna and environmental characteristics of the area. Subsequent labs investigate population growth, predator/prey interactions and related topics. Time at the end of the semester is dedicated to student-designed experiments investigating the effects of environmental factors on the growth and development of the tiny water plant duckweed. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory. 
Fall semester, alternate years, expected fall 2007. 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL1105 and BIOL1106 or permission of instructor 

BIOL2113  Human Nutrition (SI)

This course provides an understanding of nutritional requirements and the roles of nutrients in body functioning. Students discuss how to design a healthy diet, weight control, and diet and physical fitness. Topics include nutrition throughout various stages of life, evaluation of food intakes and habits, world food problems and malnutrition, nutrition and health, and food processing and food safety.  This course may serve either as a general requirements course or toward the biology major or minor.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2008. 4 credits

BIOL2115  Determinants of Health and Disease

The objective of this course is to offer insight into important human diseases. Content will vary and will reflect student input. There is a strong communication component to this course as students will give multiple oral presentations on topics such as cancer (oncogenes, tumor suppressors), infectious diseases (tuberculosis, salmonella, hepatitis), genetic disorders (obesity, cystic fibrosis, pituitary dwarfism, hemophilia, muscular dystrophy), immune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, AIDS, diabetes), diseases of the nervous system (Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, depression), respiratory diseases (emphysema) and others.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2009. 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL1105 and BIOL1106 or permission of instructor

BIOL2117  Histology

Vertebrate tissues are studied at histological and ultrastructural levels with an emphasis on functional significance. Laboratory experience includes extensive microscope use. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Fall semester, alternate years, expected fall 2008. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL2135

BIOL2119  Current Topics in Biological Research

This is an introductory level course that describes and analyzes the emerging fields of biotechnology, genetic engineering and molecular biology. The course focuses on recent developments that will have a revolutionary impact on our lives. Topics may include transplantation, artificial organs, rational drug design, combinatorial libraries, drug delivery systems, exotic epidemics, transgenic animals, knockout mice, gene therapy, antisense and others. Readings from a wide spectrum of books and periodicals are assigned as a basis for class discussion, short papers and oral presentations. Students are encouraged to view the challenges of modern biology from scientific, social and ethical viewpoints.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2008. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL1105 and BIOL1106 or permission of instructor

BIOL2123  Genetics

This course presents a combination of classical and 'modern' genetics. Classical genetic concepts, bacterial and phage genetics, molecular genetics, and genomics are emphasized. Laboratories may use a combination of computer-driven analyses and work with live animals including Drosophila, bacteria, and others. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Fall or spring semester.  4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL1105 and BIOL1106, CHEM1101 and CHEM1102
Required of all biology majors.

BIOL2131 Biochemistry I

Biochemistry I is an intermediate level course and as such, functions to provide a basic understanding of the structure and function of the living cell at the level of individual molecular types. Students are expected to master the chemical structures of the major groups of biomolecules (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids) and to understand the steps and energetics of the major metabolic pathways (glycolysis, Krebs Cycle and photosynthesis). Laboratory exercises are designed to provide a working knowledge of techniques employed in a modern biochemistry laboratory. Students work as collaborative groups of  3-4, sharing all laboratory responsibilities. During the first half of the semester students isolate and characterize proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, and in the process become proficient in such basic techniques as weighing, measuring, solution preparation, centrifugation, and colorimetry. During the second half of the semester student groups work independently to investigate the properties of the enzyme acid phosphatase. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory. 
Fall semester. 4 credits 
Prerequisites: BIOL1105 and BIOL1106 or their equivalent, CHEM2102, or permission of the instructor
Required of all biology majors.
(Cross-referenced with CHEM2111)

BIOL2133  Science Communication

Science and non-science students will learn skills necessary for effective communication of complex concepts both to scientists and to the lay public. The course will include: writing a research paper, adapting journal articles for news media, elements of the lab report, and oral presentation. The latter includes technological preparation, delivery and knowing one's audience. Students will learn how to make effective use of illustration and will be taught Corel Designer graphics software in order to design and produce illustrations for their own presentations. Strongly recommended for biology majors.
Spring semester. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL1105 or BIOL1106 and CHEM1101

BIOL2135 Anatomy and Physiology I

This course is the first semester of Anatomy and Physiology for biology majors. This course will examine the structure and function of the human body through investigation of the major organ systems. General physiological principles, especially mechanisms of homeostasis and structure-function relationships, will be emphasized for each system. The interactions among organ systems within a total body physiologic framework will be studied with particular emphasis being placed on homeostatic imbalances and disease states. This semester the topics covered include tissues: histology, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system, and special senses. Students interested in a career in the health professions are particularly encouraged to take both semesters. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Fall semester, 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL1105 and BIOL1106

BIOL2137 Anatomy and Physiology II

This course is the second semester of Anatomy and Physiology for biology majors. This will examine the structure and function of the human body through investigation of the major organ systems.  General physiological principles, especially mechanisms of homeostasis and structure-function relationships, will be emphasized for each system. The interactions among organ systems within a total body physiologic framework will be studied with particular emphasis being placed on homeostatic imbalances and disease states. This semester of the two-semester sequence covers the endocrine system, circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, metabolism and nutrition, urinary system and reproductive system. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory
Spring semester, 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL1105, BIOL1106 and  BIOL2135 or permission of the instructor

BIOL2201  Neurobiology

This course is designed to introduce students to the exciting and ever-evolving field of neuroscience from molecular to behavioral levels. Consideration of the fundamentals of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neurochemistry as they relate to brain function is emphasized. Topics include neuronal communication, sensory, motor and autonomic systems, learning and memory, neuronal plasticity and higher level functioning with a focus on behavior. Throughout the course, examples from current research and clinical references will be utilized to reinforce and illustrate key concepts. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Spring semester. 4 credits.
Prerequisites: BIOL1110 or  BIOL2135 or PSYCH2209 or permission of the instructor

BIOL3101  Analysis of Development

The processes of development: gametogenesis, fertilization, morphogenesis, differentiation, metamorphosis and regeneration are examined. Emphasis is on vertebrate development, with consideration of invertebrates and plants when appropriate. Laboratory includes observation of developmental events coupled with experimental analysis of underlying mechanisms. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Fall semester, alternate years, expected fall 2008. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL2135 or permission of the instructor

BIOL3103 Cell Biology

This course includes a detailed examination of the structure and function of living systems at the cellular level. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between the fine structure of the cell and cellular mechanisms such as transport, movement, secretion, and reproduction. Selected cellular systems such as neurons and muscle cells are examined in detail to illustrate specific phenomena. The laboratory component of the course is designed to provide hands-on experience investigating concepts discussed in the lecture and learning important experimental techniques. Students work together as groups of 3-4 students each. Some of the labs are done in the traditional mode of demonstration and observation while others are investigative. Three weeks are set aside for the collaborative student groups to design and implement investigations of membrane transport in red blood cells from several different species. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2008. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL2131 or its equivalent

BIOL3105  Endocrinology

The structure and function of the endocrine system is examined, with special emphasis on endocrine gland anatomy and physiology as well as the mechanisms of hormone action. Developmental, comparative, behavioral and clinical aspects of endocrinology are considered.
Fall semester, alternate years, expected fall 2007. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL2131 or permission of the instructor

BIOL3119  Immunology

The course covers the current advances and classical foundations of immunology. It includes: innate and adaptive immunity; the anatomic, cellular and molecular basis of the immune response; clonal selection;  immunoglobulin structure and specificity; antibody-antigen interactions, classic and novel pathways of antigen processing and presentation; allergy and other forms of hypersensitivity; tolerance, autoimmune diseases and immune deficiency, including HIV.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2008. 4 credits
Prerequisite: BIOL2131 or its equivalent

BIOL3125  Molecular Biology

Molecular biology is a discipline at the center of current advances in medicine, genetics, immunology, development and agriculture. The course entails a rigorous and detailed exploration of various biological mechanisms, beginning with an examination of DNA replication, RNA transcription, and protein synthesis, followed by analysis of gene regulation, signal transduction, the role of mutations, RNAi, and the field of genetic engineering. Laboratories illustrate important concepts of molecular biology and provide hands-on training in recently developed techniques. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Fall semester. 4 credits
Prerequisite: One semester of biochemistry or permission of the instructor

BIOL3127  Microbiology

Focusing primarily on medical aspects of microbiology, with particular attention to pathogenic bacteria and viruses, the course covers fundamental structure, physiology, and metabolism of microorganisms, as well as recent concepts in bacterial and viral genetics. Microbial disease and immune defenses are also addressed. Laboratories follow lecture material. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2009. 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL1105 and BIOL1106 or their equivalent, CHEM2101, BIOL2131 or permission of instructor

BIOL3132  Advanced Topics in Biochemistry

This is a laboratory-based course in which the student will learn modern biochemical techniques such as protein expression, protein purification, and enzyme assay. Emphasis will be on developing independent laboratory skills. This is a Colleges of the Fenway course given at one of the member institutions. Six hours laboratory.
Spring semester. 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL2131
(Cross-referenced with CHEM3132)

BIOL3135  Cancer Biology

In 1971, President Nixon declared a "war on cancer," which was followed by increased levels of funding and support, with the intention of 'beating' this disease within 10 years. Over thirty-five years later, we are still very far from finding a cure. This course will require students to draw on knowledge learned during their studies within the biology major, including genetics, cell, physiology, anatomy, biochemistry, immunology, and molecular biology, as we undertake a rigorous treatment of cancer as a 'holistsic' biological problem and explore both what is known and what remains to be learned. Primary research and review articles will serve as the basis for this course.
Spring semester, alternate years, expected spring 2009. 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL3125 or BIOL3103

BIOL3137  Medical Neuroscience

This course is designed with the future medical student and health professional in mind. Lecture content will focus on diseases and disorders of the nervous system.  Clinical case studies will be discussed, thus making this a good course for pre-med students. While there is no separate laboratory, students will participate in class on group projects working on clinical cases as if they were working in the medical field. This course is an upper-level elective course for completing the neuroscience concentration.
Fall semester, alternate years, expected fall 2008. 4 credits.
Pre-requisites: BIOL2201 or PSYCH2209 or permission of the instructor

BIOL3211 Experiential Internships in the Natural Sciences

Biology majors may apply to do an internship in a non-research setting. The internship sites and project must be appropriate for biology, and it is the student's responsibility to apply to off-campus sites to obtain an internship. The options for sites could include venues that would allow for career exploration. Examples of experiences include museum work, science writing, business in a biological company, environmental work, and a project in a clinical or veterinary setting. A proposal for the internship must be submitted by the first week of the semester for committee review. The proposal describes the project, the name and commitment from the onsite supervisor, and the expectations and significance of the internship. Students meet for a minimum of fifteen hours per week at the internship site. Students meet weekly with a faculty coordinator and are evaluated by the site supervisor and faculty coordinator. A comprehensive portfolio and formal presentation are required. This one-semester internship counts as an Emmanuel College elective.
Fall and spring semester. 4 credits
Prerequisites: INT1001, junior or senior status, and permission of department

BIOL4160  Seminar

Students read and discuss current research and give in depth oral presentations. Topics may include: human genetic disorders, endocrinology, biochemistry of development, neuroscience, molecular biology, reproductive physiology, genomics, cancer biology, advanced physiology, or others. The neuroscience seminar satisfies the seminar requirement for biology and psychology majors with a concentration in neuroscience.
Fall and Spring semester. 4 credits
Prerequisites: BIOL2123 and BIOL2131 or permission of the instructor. Neuroscience Seminar prerequisite: BIOL2201 or permission of the instructor.
Required of all senior biology majors

BIOL4178-4179  Directed Study

Conducted one-on-one with an individual member of the biology faculty, this course is an in-depth study of an important topic chosen mutually by student and instructor. Directed Study is an elective in addition to, not as a replacement for, the required five biology electives.
Fall and spring semester.  4 credits
By faculty invitation only. 

BIOL4194-4195  Research Internships in the Natural Sciences I - II

Qualified students interested in careers in research or the health professions may undertake senior year research projects at off-campus institutions such as Brigham & Women's Hospital, Children's Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconness Medical Center, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and the New England Aquarium, or with on-campus faculty conducting research.  Under supervision, students plan and carry out projects that reflect their interests and goals. A proposal for the internship must be submitted by September 1 for committee review. The proposal describes the project, the name and commitment from the onsite supervisor, and the expectations and significance of the internship. Students meet for a minimum of fifteen hours per week at the internship site. Students meet weekly with a faculty coordinator and are evaluated by the site supervisor and faculty coordinator. An undergraduate thesis and presentations, including a defense, are required.  BIOL4194 may count as a 3000-level biology elective with laboratory. BIOL4195 does not count as one of the ten biology courses, but both BIOL4194 and BIOL4195 are required for distinction in the field of biology in addition to a 3.5 GPA in biology.
Fall and spring semester. 4 credits each
Prerequisites: INT1001, senior status, 3.0 GPA, and permission of the department