Courses
Biology Department Course Listing
BI 15 General Biology I
BI 16 General Biology II
BI 18 Human Biology: Form and Function
BI 70 Science, Technology, and Society
BI 72 Horticulture
BI 75 Ecology and Society
BI 76 Introduction to Environmental
Science
BI 78 Introduction to Marine Science
BI 79 Rainforest Ecosystems
BI 80 Tropical Marine Biology
BI 82 Genes, Memes, and Evolutionary Biology
BI 83 The DNA Revolution
BI 86 Parasites: Yours, Your Pets’ and Your Travels’
BI 87 Microbiology: The Plight of Humans and Microbes
BI 95/PH 230 Philosophy and Biology of Evolutionary Theory
BI 96 God and Modern Biology
BI 107-108 Human Anatomy and Physiology
BI 151 Elements of Microbiology
BI 170-171-172 General Biology (Majors)
BI 203/PY 203 Statistics for the Life Sciences
BI 213 Endocrinology
BI 217 Nutrition and Metabolism
BI 260 Ecology
BI 261 Genetics
BI 296 Special Topics in Biology
BI 312 Human Physiology
BI 321 Animal Behavior
BI 326 Biochemistry
BI 327 Cell Biology
BI 331 Histology
BI 340 Parasitology
BI 342 Developmental Biology
BI 352 Fundamentals of Microbiology
BI 354 Molecular Biology
BI 356 Immunology
BI 357 General Virology
BI 358 Recombinant DNA Technology
BI 362 Marine Invertebrate Zoology
BI 365 Evolutionary Biology
BI 366 Ornithology
BI 368 Plant Biology: Evolution, Diversity, and Environment
BI 369 Plant Biology: Morphology, Biochemistry and Physiology
BI 370 Environmental Health and Safety
BI 382 Principles of Aquaculture Seminar
BI 383 Coral Reef Ecology Seminar (Capstone)
BI 384 Parasitology Seminar (Capstone)
BI 385 Molecular Mechanisms of Human Disease Seminar
(Capstone)
BI 386 Bacterial Pathogenesis Seminar (Capstone)
BI 387 Experimental Design Seminar (Capstone)
BI 388 Ecology of the North Atlantic Coast Seminar
BI 391-392 MUSE Research
BI 393-394 MUSE Internship
BI 395-396 Independent Research I & II
BI 397-398 Internships
BI 15 General Biology I
An introduction to the study of biology for the non-science major. The
purpose of the course is to familiarize the student with the general biological
principles that govern the activities of all living systems. Concepts
such as the biochemical origin of life, cellular morphology and physiology,
and human genetics are presented. Note: this course counts as a science
core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or
minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
BI 16 General Biology II
Biological systems are studied in detail, such as the human organism with
emphasis on pathophysiology; diversity of life; and evolution. Emphasis
is determined by instructor.
Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy
requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. Prerequisite:
BI 15. 3 credits.
BI 18 Human Biology: Form and
Function
This course represents a basic introduction to the anatomy and physiology
of humans. The major organ systems of the body are examined. Attention
is focused on how each system functions, and how all systems interact
with one another. Using comparative methods, students come to appreciate
the evolutionary origins of human form. The course examines how design
problems (such as sharing a tube for breathing and eating) were overcome.
Current issues in public health are discussed, and attention focuses on
the environmental health problems that human populations face. Note: this
course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements
for the Biology major or minor. Formerly listed as BI 33. 3 lectures.
3 credits.
BI 70 Science, Technology and
Society
This course analyzes the major issues of science and technology that confront
today’s society. An understanding of these issues is achieved through
examination of the underlying science. The issue’s impact upon the
environment, natural resources, and society is explored. Expectations
in terms of benefits and hazards are covered. The thrust of this course
is understanding through asking the right questions. Issues are ongoing
and subject to change. Current topics include acid rain, agriculture,
disease (AIDS, cancer, and heart), energy, genetic engineering, greenhouse
effect, ozone depletion, and water pollution. Note: this course counts
as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology
major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
BI 72 Horticulture
An understanding of horticulture for non-science majors is achieved through
the examination of basic horticultural science, practice, and plant material.
The science aspect covers nomenclature, plant parts, basic processes,
and plant development as influenced by the environment. Practices include
propagation, management of the indoor and outdoor environments, and cultural
needs. Plant materials covered include ornamental plants (flowers, shrubs,
trees, lawns, greenhouse and house plants), vegetables, fruits, nuts,
and herbs. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does
not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3
credits.
BI 75 Ecology and Society
Students examine the available scientific evidence, and are encouraged
to draw their own conclusions concerning environmentally sensitive issues.
These issues are covered through lectures, readings, films, and occasional
off-campus field trips (by arrangement). Areas of concern include environmental
issues raised by modern society’s conflicting needs for land, water,
a livable environment, and renewable/nonrenewable resources. This course
is open to all except biology majors. Note: this course counts as a science
core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or
minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
BI 76 Introduction to Environmental
Science
The science of the environment is presented through examination of the
interconnections among physical, chemical and biological fields of inquiry.
During the semester, field and laboratory studies of campus environments
are completed as part of a long term monitoring program. Human impacts
on the environment are measured directly with land-use analyses, water
quality assessments and biological surveys. Students develop an informed
scientific basis on which to formulate their own perspectives on living
in the environment. Formerly listed as BI 85. Note: this course counts
as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology
major or minor. 2 lectures, 1 lab. 3 credits.
BI 78 Introduction to Marine Science
This course is designed to introduce the non-science major and the marine
science minor to the field of oceanography. Consideration is given to
the interdisciplinary nature of the study of the world’s oceans
by including topics dealing with the geological, physical, chemical and
biological aspects of the science. Note: this course counts as a science
core course and is a required course for the Marine Science minor, but
does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures.
3 credits.
BI 79 Rainforest Ecosystems
This course is designed to introduce the non-science major to the rainforest.
The rainforest ecosystem is examined from a botanical and environmental
perspective. Temperate (North American) and tropical (South American,
African and Asian) rainforests are examined in this context. The importance
of biological diversity and natural products is emphasized. Solutions
for saving rainforests are analyzed. Note: this course is sometimes offered
as part of the Interdisciplinary Learning Community, Latin American Studies:
The Rainforest Community. Note: this course counts as a science core course,
but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures.
3 credits.
BI 80 Tropical Marine Biology
This course examines the ecology of tropical marine communities focusing
on marine species common to the Caribbean basin. The biology of coral
reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests is addressed in detail and their
interdependence explored. This course satisfies a science requirement
and can be used as an elective in the Marine Science minor. It is sometimes
offered as part of the Interdisciplinary Learning Community: The Caribbean
Environment. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does
not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3
credits.
BI 82 Genes, Memes, and Evolutionary
Biology
Is evolution a fact, a theory or both? This course explores modern interpretations
of Darwinís idea of evolution by natural selection. Topics include
a brief history of evolutionary biology, a basic introduction to principles
of heredity, and the role of natural selection in adaptive change. Special
attention will be placed on the origins of biotic diversity, the implications
of a common ancestor that unites all life, and the origin of consciousness,
language, and bodies in Homo sapiens. Note: this course counts as a science
core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or
minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
BI 83 The DNA Revolution
This course evaluates recently developed biological techniques in the
field of genetic engineering. An overview of DNA structure and function
is presented; however, the focus of the course is on applications of modern
DNA technology. Topics include cloning, reproductive technology and paternity
testing, identification and screening of genetic disease genes, gene therapy,
medical forensics and DNA fingerprinting, DNA technology in agriculture,
transgenic animals, and the human genome project. The social impact of
the DNA revolution is also discussed. No prior knowledge of DNA or biology
is expected. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does
not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. Formerly listed
as BI 35. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
BI 86 Parasites: Yours, Your Pets’
and Your Travels’
Students will read excerpts from four books written for the non-scientist
that deal with highlights in the history of the immune system and several
key parasitic diseases. An appreciation of the living parasite will be
gained from in-house television video clips and assigned web sites. The
course will focus on those parasites that students are most likely to
encounter in or on themselves, their pets, or as a result of their travels.
Relevant aspects of host physiology will also be covered. A discussion
approach will also be used extensively during class time, based on pre-assigned
topics. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not
satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
BI 87 Microbiology: The Plight
of Humans and Microbes
This course will survey the interactions of microorganisms on humans that
result in various types of diseases. Emphasis will be placed on bacterial
and viral infections that involve the various organs associated with skin,
respiratory, digestive, urogenital, nervous and lymphatic systems. The
importance of control and prevention of infection, as well as, the control
of growth and the functional anatomy of microorganisms will be covered
also. A three-hour laboratory experience will complement lecture material.
Historical perspectives will be given on the various diseases surveyed.
Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy
requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
BI 95/PH 230 Philosophy and Biology
of Evolutionary Theory
This course explores the question of evolutionary theory from the perspectives
of philosophy and biology. From the biological perspective, the course
focuses on Mendelian inheritance, natural and sexual selection, speciation,
and human evolution. From the philosophical perspective, the course focuses
on questions such as essentialism vs. population thinking, Cartesianism
vs. dialectical thinking, units of selection, function and adaptationism,
and human nature. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but
does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 Credits.
BI 96 God and Modern Biology
This course will serve as an introduction to the current discourse between
science and religion. We will focus on recent advances in modern biological
research and the significant religious, theological and ethical issues
that they raise. A brief history of the relationship between science and
religion along with an overview of scientific and theological methods
will be used to set a framework for active, participatory discussion.
Topical units will feature lectures highlighting recent scientific advances
and religious issues pertaining to them. We will consider current research
in four areas of biology – evolution, genetics and biotechnology,
neuroscience and human behavior, and ecology. Readings that focus on the
science/religion interaction related to each of these areas will inform
the discussion. Note: This course is offered as an open elective and does
not satisfy the requirements of the science core or the Biology major
or minor. Prerequisites: One course in the natural sciences (BI, CH or
PS) and one course in religious studies (RS). 3 credits.
BI 107-108 Human Anatomy
and Physiology
This course is recommended for nursing majors. It is designed to give
familiarity with the anatomy and physiology of body processes with special
emphasis on the practical aspects of circulation, respiration, digestion,
reproduction, the glands of internal secretion, and including techniques
for measuring blood pressure, blood typing, and others. This course is
not open to Biology majors, except where required for allied health sciences
(requires permission of the Chair and verification from the Health Science
Advisor). Human Physiology (BI 312) is recommended for Biology majors
who are interested in human physiology. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 8 credits.
BI 151 Elements of Microbiology
A course in microbiology for nursing majors. Topics presented include
the structure and function of bacteria, viruses, yeasts, molds, antibiotics,
and bacterial genetics. Also, mechanisms of microbial invasion and the
body’s immunological response are examined. This course is not open
to Biology majors. Fundamentals of Microbiology (BI 352) is recommended
for Biology majors who are interested in microbiology.
3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
BI 170-171-172 General
Biology (Majors)
A three-semester introduction to biology for the biology major. The first
semester of the series (BI 170) covers the molecular and cellular basis
of life, including cell structure and function, cell communication, inheritance,
gene expression and regulation, and developmental genetics. The second
semester of the sequence (BI 171) focuses on biochemistry, energy utilization,
anatomy and physiology, and plant and animal structure and function. The
third semester of the sequence (BI 172) focuses on organismal biology
with an emphasis on evolution, biological diversity, ecology, and environmental
sciences. Students receive hands-on experience with a broad range of topics
and techniques in the accompanying laboratory. 3 lectures, 1 lab per semester.
12 credits.
BI 203/PY 203 Statistics
for the Life Sciences
This is an introductory course in statistical methodology and analysis.
It includes descriptive statistics, such as frequency distributions, central
tendency, variability, and correlation, as well as an introduction to
probability, sampling theory, and tests of significance, including the
t-test, Chi Squared, ANOVA, and non-parametric statistics. The laboratory
is designed to complement the course by giving students supervised computation
and problem-solving exercises with calculator and computer. 3 lectures,
1 lab. 4 credits.
BI 213 Endocrinology
A study of the glands of internal secretion, their location, anatomy,
and function. The nature of their secretions and importance in the regulation
of body functions is discussed. 3 lectures. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172;
CH 11-12 and CH 211-212. 3 credits.
BI 217 Nutrition and Metabolism
A consideration of the roles of carbohydrates, lipids, protein, vitamins,
minerals and water in mammalian nutrition. The physiology of animal digestion,
absorption, and intermediary metabolism is examined in relation to nutritional
needs and energy balance. Recent developments in the application of nutritional
findings to metabolic disorders such as diabetes, heart disease, and neurochemical
deficits are treated and evaluated in relation to the principles of animal
nutrition. 3 lectures. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 11-12 and CH
211-212. 3 credits.
BI 260 Ecology
A hierarchical approach to scale and complexity is used to present ecology
at different levels such as species, populations, communities and ecosystems.
Through quantification of natural history, the course investigates mechanisms
of and responses to environmental change. Concepts of energy flow and
nutrient cycles are introduced and discussed within local, synoptic and
global frameworks. Laboratory exercises and fieldtrips to local ecosystems
are used to demonstrate ecological interconnections. 3 lectures, 1 lab.
Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 11-12. 4 credits.
BI 261 Genetics
This course offers a comprehensive study of the fundamental principles
of classical and molecular genetics. Major topics include transmission
(Mendelian) genetics, gene linkage and mapping, fundamentals of molecular
biology, molecular approaches to genetic analysis, genetic engineering
and recombinant DNA technology, microbial genetics, developmental genetics
and population genetics. The role of genetics in evolutionary biology
is emphasized. Formerly listed as BI 221. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172. 4 credits.
BI 296 Special Topics in Biology
This course requires library research and the writing of a scholarly paper
on a special topic. The student must discuss the topic with and arrange
for the consent of an appropriate professor prior to registration. 3 credits.
BI 312 Human Physiology
A consideration of homeokinesis in the mammalian organism is studied by
means of a comprehensive survey of the morphology and physiology of the
organ systems of the human body. Formerly listed as Mammalian Physiology,
BI 212. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 11-12 and
CH 211-212. 4 credits.
BI 321 Animal Behavior
A comparative survey of the behavioral patterns and social relationships
of invertebrate and vertebrate animals. This course will include an examination
of the genetic, physiological, and ecological mechanisms underlying behavioral
interactions, and their adaptive significance. In the laboratory, students
will learn observational and experimental methods used in animal behavior
research. Formerly listed as BI 267. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172. 4 credits.
BI 326 Biochemistry
An examination of the structure and function of biological macromolecules
with emphasis on their role in eukaryotic cell processes will be presented.
The course will focus on the regulation of metabolic pathways involved
in the synthesis, breakdown, and inter-conversion of biochemical intermediates.
We will seek to develop an understanding of basic biochemical principles
in the context of overall cell function. Laboratory exercises will take
an investigative approach to the application of biochemical methods to
questions in cell biology. Formerly listed as BI 226. 3 lectures, 1 lab.
Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 211-212. 4 credits.
BI 327 Cell Biology
This course focuses on the structure and function of eukaryotic cells.
We explore the relationship between gene expression and protein synthesis,
and discuss how different proteins coordinate a complex array of important
biological tasks in the cell. We cover the biochemical interactions that
occur within and between cells that sustain viability and mediate cell
communication. Topics include gene expression and protein production,
enzyme structure/function, protein-protein interactions, cytoskeleton,
and extracellular matrix, mechanisms of transport, signal transduction,
cell cycle and apoptosis. Laboratories include analysis of cell morphology,
methods of protein and organelle detection, protein purification and assays
to study the growth, differentiation and death of eukaryotic cells in
response to their environment. Formerly listed as BI 227. 3 lectures,
1 lab. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 11-12 and CH 211-212. 4 credits.
BI 331 Histology
A study of the microscopic anatomy of vertebrate animals; the morphology
of cells and their combinations in the various tissues and organs of the
body. The structure of cells, tissues, and organs is constantly related
to their functions in the different vital processes, and to the participation
of the fundamental tissues in the formation of organs and systems of organs.
Formerly listed as BI 231. 2 lectures, 2 labs. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172.
4 credits.
BI 340 Parasitology
An introduction to the biology of parasites of humans and domestic animals.
Emphasis on the host-parasite relationship provides an opportunity to
integrate acquired knowledge of host and parasite anatomy, biochemistry,
physiology, ecology and immunology. In addition, the molecular biology
of selected parasites is discussed. Laboratory exercises include examination
of preserved and living organisms (obtained locally and maintained in
the laboratory) as well as experimental design and evaluation. Formerly
listed as BI 240. 2 lectures, 2 labs. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH
11-12 and CH 211-212. 4 credits.
BI 342 Developmental Biology
This course explores how the transition between a single-celled, fertilized
egg and a multicellular animal is accomplished. Emphasis is placed on
the dynamic interactions that occur at the molecular level to tightly
control developmental processes. Topics include mechanisms of cell fate
and differentiation, the molecular basis of differential gene expression,
analysis of the molecular cues regulating body axis formation, environmental
regulation of animal development, and developmental mechanisms of evolutionary
change. The laboratory for this course consists of student-designed group
research projects using key animal model systems. Formerly listed as BI
242, Mechanisms in Animal Development. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172. 4 credits.
BI 352 Fundamentals of Microbiology
A comprehensive introduction to microbiology. Lecture topics include microbial
cell structure, physiology, genetics, evolution and taxonomy, diversity,
enumeration methods, ecology, and applied microbiology. Lab sessions introduce
microbiological techniques, such as aseptic technique, microscopy, bacterial
staining and culture techniques, and other methods to study the biology
of microorganisms. The student uses skills acquired in the lab to examine
the diversity of microorganisms in the biosphere. Formerly listed as BI
252. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 and CH 211-212.
4 credits.
BI 354 Molecular Biology
An introduction to molecular biology. This course examines protein structure,
DNA structure, RNA structure, the roles of DNA and RNA in protein synthesis,
and the replication and repair of DNA and RNA in eukaryotic and prokaryotic
cells. The effects of mutations are related to DNA, RNA, and proteins.
Formerly listed as BI 254. 3 lectures. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172.
3 credits.
BI 356 Immunology
An introduction to immunology. This course covers the humoral and cellular
basis of immune response. Antigens, the structure and function of immunoglobulins,
antibody formation and living/experimental manifestations of the immune
response are emphasized. Formerly listed as BI 256. 3 lectures. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172. 3 credits.
BI 357 General Virology
This introductory course is designed to cover the entire field of virology,
but special emphasis will be placed on animal viruses. Coverage centers
on the physical, biochemical, and biological aspects of each bacterial,
and animal virus class. Discussion stresses viral morphology, replication
and assembly; pathogenesis of viral infections, and the epidemiology,
prevention and control of viral diseases. Formerly listed as BI 257. 3
lectures. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 credits.
BI 358 Recombinant DNA Technology
This course is designed to provide practical experience for biology majors
in recent advances in molecular biology and biotechnology. The course
allows the student to become familiar with the manipulation of genetic
material (DNA) and to understand the techniques that are used for the
isolation and characterization of genes. Laboratory sessions cover topics
such as the principles of aseptic technique, isolation of plasmid DNA
from bacteria, transformation of bacteria and yeast, restriction enzyme
digestion, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gene manipulation.
1 lecture, 2 labs. Formerly listed as BI 258, Laboratory in Molecular
Biology. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 and BI 354; CH 211-212. 3 credits.
BI 362 Marine Invertebrate Zoology
A study of the phylogeny, morphology and physiology of the major marine
invertebrate groups with emphasis on local fauna. The laboratories include
field trips to the coast to collect specimens for identification and study.
Formerly listed as BI 262. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172.
4 credits.
BI 365 Evolutionary Biology
The course begins with an examination of the intellectual origins of biological
thought and includes a study of the historical factors that contributed
to Charles Darwin’s development of the theory of evolution. Topics
covered in some detail include the evidence for evolution, the forces
affecting evolution (e.g., mutation, migration, genetic drift and selection),
and natural selection as the basis of adaptation. Philosophical and practical
aspects of defining species and reconstructing phylogenetic relationships
are also discussed. Students critique (individually and in groups) current
papers in evolutionary biology on topics such as punctuated equilibrium
theory, Darwinian medicine, human origins, co-evolutionary arms races,
systematics and biodiversity, and the evolution of sex. Formerly listed
as BI 285. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 4 credits.
BI 366 Ornithology
The course is an upper-level lecture laboratory and field course on avian
biology with an emphasis on ecology and evolution. The course will familiarize
students with the staggering diversity of birds and the adaptations that
have contributed to their success. Laboratory activities will include:
1. a multi-week student investigation of avian diversity of form and function
and, 2. a series of field trips that emphasize unique adaptations and
means of identification of birds found in Connecticut. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172. 4 credits.
BI 368 Plant Biology: Evolution,
Diversity, and Environment
The evolutionary process is discussed first, followed by coverage of the
evolution and diversity of land plants from bryophytes and ferns to gymnosperms
and angiosperms. The environmental impact of using plants for food production
is also examined. Students are expected to assemble a field plant collection.
Formerly listed as BI 268. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172.
4 credits.
BI 369 Plant Biology: Morphology,
Biochemistry and Physiology
This course is an advanced study of gymnosperms and angiosperms. Special
emphasis is placed on the areas of morphology, biochemistry and physiology.
The structure, function and development of conifers, monocots and dicots
are emphasized. The biochemistry and physiology of plant processes are
related to contemporary topics in genetic engineering of plants. Formerly
listed as BI 269. 3 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 4
credits.
BI 370 Environmental Health and
Safety
This course focuses on the environmental, health and safety aspects associated
with the usage and exposure to biologicals, chemicals and radiation. The
risks, hazards and environ- mental impact associated with hazardous materials
will be examined. Methods to minimize risk and environmental pollution
are addressed. Regulations on the federal and state level associated with
hazardous materials will be discussed. Conducting safety audits and inspections
in the lab context and proper methods of disposal for hazardous materials
are covered. Formerly listed as BI 270. 2 lectures, 1 lab. Prerequisites:
CH 11-12. 3 credits.
BI 382 Principles of Aquaculture
Seminar
This course is designed to introduce the student to the rapidly growing
science of aquaculture or fish farming. A comprehensive approach covering
topics including history, potential, descriptions, management, feeding,
diseases, regulations, permitting and marketing of aquatic animals and
plants will be taken. The interdisciplinary nature of aquaculture science,
which integrates aspects of biology, chemistry, engineering and business,
provides an interesting model for introducing the upperclass student to
the application of science in the development of new technologies. A main
focus of the laboratory will be the setup, maintenance and operation of
the 700 gallon Fish Farm located in Bannow GR44. This system was purchased
with funds obtained through an NSF Advanced Technology Education Program
administered through the New England Board of Education’s AQUA network.
It provides the student with a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience
with a small-scale aquaculture production system. During the semester,
students will also be responsible for preparing and presenting a seminar
based on primary literature from aquaculture research journals. Students
will be encouraged to use digital technologies in their presentation.
The laboratory/seminar component of the course will also include field
trips to the FM Flowers oyster hatchery, Oyster Bay New York and the National
Marine Fisheries Laboratory, Milford, Connecticut, a Federal facility
involved in the research and development of aquaculture technologies for
marine fish and shellfish. This course satisfies the Biology major capstone
requirement or the ecology, evolution and environmental science block
requirement. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 4 credits.
BI 383 Coral Reef Ecology Seminar
A study of the complex ecological relationships among the various plants
and animals inhabiting corl reef communities. This course discusses such
topics as reef development, coral symbiosis and growth, reef trophic dynamics,
behavior of coral reef fish and invertebrates and the effects of pollution
on the coral reef ecosystem. A seminar format is used and students are
required to read, analyze and present technical/research papers from the
primary literature. Formerly listed as BI 263 and more recently as BI
363. This course satisfies the Biology major capstone requirement or the
ecology, evolution and environmental science block requirement. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172. 3 credits.
BI 384 Parasitology Seminar
Students will analyze and present primary literature representing current
areas of active research in parasitology. The focus will be on protist
and animal parasites of humans. The initial student presentation will
build on the background of each individual, while the second presentation
will provide the opportunity to explore a new area of biological research.
The breadth of the host-parasite relationship: anatomical, physiological,
immunological, genetic, molecular, provides the platform for a capstone
experience. Permission of the instructor is requested in order to tailor
required readings to the enrollment of each class. This course satisfies
the Biology major capstone requirement or the morphology and physiology
block requirement. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, and two electives at
the 300 level. 3 credits.
BI 385 Molecular Mechanisms of
Human Disease Seminar
This is an upper level seminar course covering the molecular and cellular
events that underlie important human diseases. Students will learn how
to critically analyze and interpret primary literature on the molecular
aspects of such diseases as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and AIDS.
A review and in-depth discussion of selected articles will be presented
and led by students at each meeting. Students will also use these acquired
skills to survey a particular topic of their choice, and write a concise
and comprehensive review of the relevant literature for their final project.
This course satisfies the Biology major capstone requirement or the molecular,
cell and developmental block requirement. Prerequisites include BI 170-171-172,
CH 211-212 and one additional upper level course in the physiology/morphology
block. Permission of the instructor is also required. 3 credits.
BI 386 Bacterial Pathogenesis
Seminar
This course examines the role of prokaryotes in disease. Emphasis is placed
on the genetics and physiology of the mechanisms of pathogenesis. Aspects
of the human immune response, host-parasite relationships, and the epidemiology
of infectious disease are covered. Formerly listed as BI 353, Bacterial
Pathogenesis. This course satisfies the Biology major capstone requirement
or the molecular, cell and develomental block requirement. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172 and BI 352. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
BI 387 Experimental Design Seminar
Methods and principles of conducting experimental research will be discussed
through lecture and literature survey, with a strong emphasis on field
(not laboratory) approaches to ecology, evolution and environmental science.
Experimental design and sampling techniques to investigate topics from
the level of autoecology to the ecosystem will be presented. Examples
from the primary literature will be reviewed and critiqued. The relationship
between statistics and experimental design will be demonstrated for specific
research problems. Formerly listed as BI 362. This course satisfies the
Biology major capstone requirement or the ecology, evolution and environmental
science block requirement. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 credits.
BI 388 Ecology of the North Atlantic
Coast Seminar
This seminar will examine the processes that generate ecological patterns
in North Atlantic coastal ecosystems. We will focus on the ecology of
salt marshes, tidal rivers, sandy beaches, and rocky shores including
the human impact on these systems. The course will be centered around
student-led discussions of reading from the scientific literature. This
course satisfies the Biology major capstone requirement or the ecology,
evolution and environmental science block requirement. Prerequisites:
BI 170-171-172. 3 credits.
BI 391-392 MUSE Research
(See Marine Science Program)
With faculty assistance and approval, students will design and carry out
a research project. The project may involve scientific observation, testing
and recording, such as a study of water quality in a stream or the Sound.
It may call for practical environmental work, such as restoring degraded
habitats in Cove Island Park or it could be primarily educational, such
as preparing exhibits or environmental lesson plans for SoundWaters. Long
Island Sound and its watershed offers a great variety of subjects for
study. 3 credits.
BI 393-394 MUSE Internship
(See Marine Science Program)
As an intern at SoundWaters Community Center for Environmental Education,
students will assist educators teaching ecology to urban elementary, middle
and high school students involved in the SoundWaters after-school programs.
Students will also have the opportunity to teach aboard the schooner,
SoundWaters, and participate in overnight educational programs offered
aboard the vessel. 6 credits.
BI 395-396 Independent Research
I & II
A research thesis, involving laboratory investigation, is required. Seniors
and qualified juniors wishing to register for this program must first
obtain the consent of the professor supervising research in the area of
their interest. Present projects include research on bacterial ecology
and physiology, biochemistry, biostimulation of plants, cell wall biosynthesis,
ecology, evolution of marine invertebrates, genetic regulation of animal
development, mammalian physiology, population and disease dynamics of
shellfish, and signal transduction/gene regulations. 3 credits each.
BI 397-398 Internships
These internships are available for junior and senior level biology majors
who are in good academic standing. While variable and subject to availability,
present internships are available for students interested in allied health,
environmental science, marine science, medicine, dentistry, biotechnology,
and emergency medicine. Other internships are subject to individual arrangement.
Transportation will be provided by the student. Students wishing to register
for this program must first discuss it with the Chair and also obtain
the consent of the professor supervising the internship. Credit by arrangement.
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