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BIOL B103 Basic Concepts in Human Biology

Not offered 2026-27

An introduction to modern topics in biology with an emphasis on human biology. Topics include biomolecules, cells, genes, development, organ systems, and disease. The scientific process and interpretation of scientific information as it pertains to understanding human biology and disease will also be explored. This course is intended for students who are not majoring in Biology or Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. Lecture three hours a week.

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BIOL B110 Biological Exploration I

Fall 2026

BIOL B110 Biological Exploration I (1 Unit) BIOL B110 is an introductory-level course designed to encourage students to explore the field of biology at multiple levels of organization: molecular, cellular, organismal and population. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours a week. BIOL B110 explores the ways the central dogma of molecular biology relates to the biochemical basis of phenotypes through the lens of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, and molecular biology. The laboratory portion of the course will explore the fundamentals of molecular and cellular biology through scientific research, with an emphasis on scientific process and experimental design. Topics include genetically modified organisms, stem cell biology, and molecular biological techniques.

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Neuroscience.

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BIOL B111 Biological Exploration II

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B111 Biological Exploration II (1 Unit) BIOL B111 is an introductory-level course designed to encourage students to explore the field of biology at multiple levels of organization: molecular, cellular, organismal and ecological. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours a week. BIOL B111 explores how organisms interact with and adapt to their environments, both abiotic and biotic. Topics to be investigated include development, physiology, photosynthesis, ecology (population, community and ecosystem), and evolution. The laboratory portion of the course will explore the fundamentals of organismal biology through scientific research, with an emphasis on the scientific process and experimental design.

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Neuroscience.

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BIOL B181 Introduction to Biology I: Genetics & the Central Dogma

Fall 2026

BIOL B181 Introduction to Biology I: Genetics & the Central Dogma (1 Unit) For post-baccalaureate premedical students only. A comprehensive examination of topics in genetics, molecular biology and cancer biology. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours a week.

Course does not meet an Approach

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BIOL B182 Introduction to Biology II: Biochemistry & Human Physiology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B182 Introduction to Biology II: Biochemistry & Human Physiology (1 Unit) For post-baccalaureate premedical students only. A comprehensive examination of topics in biochemistry, cell biology and human physiology. Lecture three hours, laboratory three hours a week. BIOL B181 is strongly recommended.

Course does not meet an Approach

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BIOL B201 Genetics

Fall 2026

BIOL B201 Genetics (1 Unit) This course focuses on the principles of genetics, including classical genetics, population genetics and molecular genetics. Topics to be covered include the genetic and molecular nature of mutations and phenotypes, genetic mapping and gene identification, chromosome abnormalities, genome editing, epigenetics, and cancer genetics. Examples of genetic analyses are drawn from a variety of organisms including Drosophila, C. elegans, mice and humans. Lecture three hours a week. Prerequisites: BIOL B110 and CHEM B104. Quantitative Readiness Required (QR). Enrollment cap 36 with 4 post-baccalaureate spaces. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for lottery: Biology & BCMB majors by class (senior then junior then sophomore); then minors by class, then other students.

Quantitative Readiness Required (QR)

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Health Studies; Health Studies.

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BIOL B202 Neurobiology

Fall 2026

BIOL B202 Neurobiology (1 Unit) This course provides a cellular and molecular lens on foundational topics in neuroscience, such as electrophysiology, synaptic transmission, plasticity, and neural circuit development and function. Students will develop skills necessary to read primary literature in neuroscience. Lecture and activities three hours per week. Prerequisites: One semester of BIOL B110 or B111, Neuroscience 100, or permission of instructor. Enrollment cap 30 with 3 post-baccalaureate spaces. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Junior Biology & Neuroscience majors; then Sophomore Biology & Neuroscience majors; then Senior Biology & Neuroscience majors; then Biology & Neuroscience minors; then other majors and minors by class (seniors then juniors, etc).

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Neuroscience; Neuroscience.

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BIOL B212 Nutritional Physiology

Not offered 2026-27

Nutritional physiology covers the biochemical basis of energy metabolism, physiological processes in digestion and uptake, structure and function of the digestive tract, and the biochemical transformation of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the body. The course also addresses vitamins, mechanisms of organ- to organism-wide control, the gut microbiome, and major events in nutritional research, as well as topics on politics and sociocultural influences of agricultural practices, food production, its distribution, and factors in its consumption. The emphasis is on expanding the students' understanding of physiology, primarily through a human-focused approach. Prerequisite: completion of Biol 110 or 111.

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BIOL B215 Biostatistics with R

Fall 2026

BIOL B215 Biostatistics with R (1 Unit) An introductory course in statistical analysis focusing on biological data. This course is structured to develop students' understanding of statistics and probability and when to apply different quantitative methods. The lab component focuses on how to implement those methods using the R statistics environment. Topics include summary statistics, distributions, randomization, replication, and probability. The course is geared around problem sets, lab reports, and interactive learning. No prior experience with programming is required. Suggested preparation: BIOL B110 or B111 highly recommended. Students who have taken PSYC B205/H200 or SOCL B265 are not eligible to take this course. Enrollment cap 16. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Biology & BCMB majors by class (senior then junior then sophomore); then Biology, BCMB and Data Science minors by class, then other students.

Quantitative Methods (QM)

Quantitative Readiness Required (QR)

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Data Science; Health Studies; Health Studies.

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BIOL B216 Genomics

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B216 Genomics (1 Unit) An introduction to the study of genomes and genomic data. This course will examine the history of this exciting field, the types of biological questions that can be answered using large biological data sets and complete genome sequences as well as the techniques and technologies that make such studies possible. Topics include genome organization and evolution, comparative genomics, and analysis of transcriptomes, with a focus on animal genomics and humans in particular. Prerequisite: One semester of BIOL B110. BIOL B201 is highly recommended. Enrollment cap 16. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Biology & BCMB majors by class (senior then junior then sophomore); then Biology, BCMB and Data Science minors by class, then other students.

Writing Attentive

Quantitative Methods (QM)

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Data Science; Health Studies; Health Studies.

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BIOL B220 Ecology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B220 Ecology (1 Unit) A study of the interactions between organisms and their environments. The scientific underpinnings of current environmental issues, with regard to human impacts, are also discussed. Students will also become familiar with ecological principles and with the methods ecologists use. Students will apply these principles by designing and conducting experiments in both the laboratory and the field, with the campus serving as a living laboratory. Lecture three hours a week, laboratory/field investigation three hours a week. There will be mandatory field trips throughout the semester. Prerequisite: one semester of BIOL B110 or B111 or permission of instructor. Enrollment cap 16. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior; Junior; Sophomore; Major/Minor/Concentration.

Writing Attentive

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Environmental Studies.

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BIOL B221 Invasion Biology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B221 Invasion Biology (1 Unit) The negative impact of biological invasions is recognized as one of the key drivers of biodiversity loss. We will study how biological invasions come to be, what makes invasive species so successful, and how the ecology and evolution of invasive populations redefine the ecosystems in which they become established. The course will explore the interaction between invasive species and other global change factors such as urbanization, globalization of trade, and climate change. For each topic, we will examine the theoretical background, consider case studies, and develop a deeper understanding through class discussions, readings, and assignments. Prerequisite: BIOL B111 or instructor permission.

Scientific Investigation (SI)

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BIOL B225 Biology and Ecology of Plants

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B225 Biology and Ecology of Plants (1 Unit) Plants are critical to numerous contemporary issues, such as ecological sustainability, economic stability, and human health. Students will examine the fundamentals of how plants are structured, how they function, how they interact with other organisms, and how they respond to environmental stimuli. In addition, students will be taught to identify important local species and will explore the role of plants in human society and ecological systems. Prerequisite: one semester of BIOL B110/B111.

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BIOL B228 Drosophila as a model for neurogenetics

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B228 Drosophila Neurogenetics (1 Unit) This is a Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) designed to bring students into novel genetic model organism research in neuroscience. Using the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as our system, we will perform original experiments to reveal how specific genes act in neurons and/or glia to contribute to behaviors such as sleep. Students will use primary literature and/or open datasets to generate, pitch, and investigate research questions of their own. The format will be a mixture of lecture, laboratory activities, journal club discussions, writing workshops, and student presentations. Lecture three hours per week and lab three hours per week. Prerequisite: one semester of BIOL B110/111 or permission of instructor. BIOL B201 and/or BIOL B215 will provide useful skills but are not required. Counts towards Biology (lab requirement) and Neuroscience (lab requirement). Enrollment cap 16. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior Biology & Neuroscience majors, then Junior Biology & Neuroscience majors.

Writing Attentive

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Neuroscience.

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BIOL B236 Evolution

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B236 Evolution (1 Unit) A lecture/discussion course on evolutionary biology. This course will cover the history of evolutionary theory, population genetics, molecular and developmental evolution, phylogenetic analysis, and the evolution of vertebrates. Lecture three hours a week. Enrollment cap 42. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior; then Junior; then Sophomore.

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Anthropology; Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Geology.

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BIOL B238 Ethics in Biology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B238 Ethics in Biology (1 Unit) Students will read and discuss various texts to understand the intersection of ethics with biology in the modern world in light of the history of questionable morality and ethics in science. We will specifically focus on the medical sciences, environmentalism, and how settler colonialism is an intrinsic part of most scientific research practices. Prerequisites: a ±©·ç×ÊÔ´-level introductory science class like BIOL B110 or B111, ENVS 101 or GEOL 101.

Course does not meet an Approach

Power, Inequity, and Justice (PIJ)

Counts Toward: Health Studies; Health Studies.

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BIOL B250 Computational Methods in the Sciences

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B250 Computational Methods in the Sciences (1 Unit) A study of how and why modern computation methods are used in scientific inquiry. Students will learn basic principles of analyzing, modeling, and visualizing scientific data through hands-on programming exercises. Content will draw on examples from across the life sciences. This course will use the Python programming language. No prior programming experience is required. Six hours of combined lecture/lab per week. Enrollment limit 16. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior; Junior; Sophomore; Major/Minor/Concentration.

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BIOL B255 Microbiology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B255 Microbiology (1 Unit) Invisible to the naked eye, microbes occupy every niche on the planet. This course will examine how microbes have become successful colonizers; review aspects of interactions between microbes, humans and the environment; and explore practical uses of microbes in industry, medicine and environmental management. The course will combine lecture, discussion of primary literature and student presentations. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisites: BIOL B110 and CHEM B104. Enrollment limit 22. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: seniors and juniors majoring in Biology or BCMB at ±©·ç×ÊÔ´.

Writing Attentive

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Environmental Studies; Health Studies; Health Studies.

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BIOL B262 Urban Ecosystems

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B262 Urban Ecosystems (1 Unit) Cities can be considered ecosystems whose functions are highly influenced by human activity. This course will address many of the living and non-living components of urban ecosystems, as well as their unique processes. Using an approach focused on case studies, the course will explore the ecological and environmental problems that arise from urbanization and also examine solutions that have been attempted. Prerequisite: BIOL B110/B111/ENVS B101.

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BIOL B265 Animal Behavior

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B265 Animal Behavior (1 Unit) This course explores the evolutionary and ecological processes that shape the diversity of animal behaviors. We will investigate how animals forage for food, attract mates, avoid predators, communicate, and ensure the survival of their offspring. By examining how particular behaviors provide evolutionary advantages in different contexts, we will explore why animals behave in such varied and complex ways. We will do this by both studying the primary scientific literature and designing, conducting, and analyzing our own experiments during the lab portion of the class. Prerequisites: BIOL B111 or BIOL B220 or permission of instructor. Enrollment Cap 18. If the course exceeds the enrollment limit the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Biology majors by class (senior then junior then sophomore); then minors by class, then other students.

Writing Attentive

Scientific Investigation (SI)

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BIOL B271 Developmental Biology

Fall 2026

BIOL B271 Developmental Biology (1 Unit) An introduction to embryology and the concepts of developmental biology. Concepts are illustrated by analyzing the experimental observations that support them. Topics include gametogenesis and fertilization, morphogenesis, cell fate specification and differentiation, pattern formation, regulation of gene expression, limb development, neural development, and developmental plasticity. The laboratory focuses on observations and experiments on living embryos. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.; some weeks require additional hours outside of the regularly scheduled lab. Prerequisite: one semester of either BIOL B110 or B111 or permission of instructor. Enrollment limit 22 with 2 post-baccalaureate spaces. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior; Junior; Sophomore; Major/Minor/Concentration.

Writing Attentive

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Health Studies; Health Studies.

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BIOL B312 Biodiversity Conservation in a Changing World

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B312 Biodiversity Conservation in a Changing World (1 Unit) How is biodiversity responding to human-induced global change, and how can ecological knowledge be applied to conservation? This course explores pressing ecological challenges such as endangered species management, invasive species spread, and climate-driven range shifts. Through case studies and primary literature, we will examine how conservation biologists, invasion ecologists, and population biologists use data-driven approaches to understand ecological dynamics, inform decision-making, and propose real-world solutions. Students will explore quantitative methods by analyzing and discussing scientific papers, gaining insight into the role of data and models in conservation science. By the end of the course, students will design a research proposal detailing how to collect and analyze data for forecasting ecological change or modeling biodiversity threats. Prerequisites: Any 200-level BIOL course OR ENVS 201 OR permission of instructor. Students should have completed at least one QM course.

Counts Toward: Data Science; Environmental Studies.

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BIOL B317 Evolution and Medicine

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B317 Evolution and Medicine (1 Unit) An opportunity to apply evolutionary thinking to the prevention and treatment of human disease. Course themes include: pathogen evolution; evolution of defense mechanisms; reproductive medicine; cancer as an evolutionary process; disease-associated allele frequencies in populations; individual health versus population health. A problem-based seminar course with a focus on the primary research literature. Three hours of course meetings per week. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisite: Required: BIOL 110 or 111 and any 200-level course in Biology. At least one of the following courses is recommended but not required: BIOL 201 (Genetics), BIOL 206 (Genomics), BIOL 215 (Biostatistics with R) or BIOL 236 (Evolution). Enrollment Cap 16. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior BIOL/BCMB Majors (preference to students using this course for Senior Capstone requirement), then Junior BIOL/BCMB Majors, then random.

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BIOL B318 Sex in Modern Healthcare

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B318 Sex in Modern Healthcare (1 Unit) A primary goal of this course is to explore the spectrum of biological sex, a concept that is usually described as entirely binary, but is highly variable with as many as 1% of individuals born with differences in sex development. We will also study topics specific to people with uteruses including menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause to gain a more comprehensive understanding of these physiological processes. In addition, this course will engage with societal issues affecting patients who identify as women including access to reproductive and gender affirming healthcare, and the of historical understudying of female physiology. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisite: BIOL 110 and any 200-level biology course. Enrollment Cap 16. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior BIOL/BCMB Majors (preference to students using this course for Senior Capstone requirement), then Junior BIOL/BCMB Majors, then random.

Power, Inequity, and Justice (PIJ)

Counts Toward: Health Studies; Health Studies.

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BIOL B319 The Biology of Cancer

Fall 2026

BIOL B319 The Biology of Cancer (1 Unit) A seminar focused on the molecular and cellular biology of cancer, with an emphasis on fundamental research in cancer biology and efforts to translate those discoveries into therapeutics. Learning strategies include interactive lectures focused on core concepts in the field, problem solving, and critical discussion of the primary literature. The goal of the course is to enable each student to build an integrated, systems-level understanding of this fast-moving, interdisciplinary field. We will begin the semester with a broad introduction to the molecular and cellular basis of common types of cancer and the origins of modern cancer research. Subsequent topics include: cellular and viral oncogenes; growth factor signaling; tumor suppressors; genomic instability; cancer stem cells; tumor invasion and metastasis; cancer immunology; emerging immunotherapies and the concept of a "new human"; interactions between mRNA vaccines and anti-cancer immunity. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisites: Biological Explorations I (BIOL B110) and any 200-level course in Biology or permission of instructor. Enrollment Cap 16. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior BIOL/BCMB Majors (preference to students using this course for Senior Capstone requirement), then Junior BIOL/BCMB Majors, then random.

Course does not meet an Approach

Counts Toward: Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Health Studies.

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BIOL B323 Coastal and Marine Ecology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B323 Coastal and Marine Ecology (1 Unit) An interdisciplinary course exploring the ecological, biogeochemical, and physical aspects of coastal and marine ecosystems. We will compare intertidal habitats in both temperate and tropical environments, with a specific emphasis on global change impacts on coastal systems (e.g. sea level rise, warming, and species shifts). Lecture three hours per week. In 2027 the course will have a mandatory field trip to a tropical marine field station and a field trip to a temperate field station in the mid-Atlantic as part of the Coasts in Transition 360. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisite: BIOL B220 or BIOL B225, or permission of instructor, and application to the 360.

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BIOL B326 From Channels to Behavior

Fall 2026

BIOL B326 From Channels to Behavior (1 Unit) The nervous system is composed of molecules and cells and underlies all our behaviors and thoughts. Sometimes specific proteins, including channels, receptors, and enzymes, will play an outsized role in particular behaviors. Through lectures and discussions of the primary literature this course will examine links between molecular processes and behaviors, introducing principles and research methods of molecular/cellular and behavioral neuroscience. Labs will use molecular biology approaches to investigate protein structure and/or function. Three hours of lecture and three hours of lab per week. Prerequisites: one semester of BIOL B110 or B111 and one of the following: PSYC B218/PSYC H217, or BIOL 202, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment Cap 16. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior BIOL & NEURO Majors, then Junior BIOL & Neuro Majors.

Writing Attentive

Counts Toward: Neuroscience.

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BIOL B327 Evolutionary Genetics and Genomics

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B327 Evolutionary Genetics and Genomics (1 Unit) This seminar course will discuss evolution primarily at the level of genes and genomes. Topics will include the roles of selection and drift in molecular evolution, evolution of gene expression, genomic approaches to the study of quantitative variation, evolutionary history of humans, and evolutionary perspectives on the study of human disease. Students will read papers from the primary literature, lead and participate in class discussions and debates, and write reviews of research articles. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Pre-requisites: one semester of BIOL B110 or B111 and BIOL 201 or BIOL 236, or permission of instructor. Quantitative proficiency required. Enrollment Cap 16. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior BIOL/BCMB Majors (preference to students using this course for Senior Capstone requirement), then Junior BIOL/BCMB Majors, then random.

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology.

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BIOL B330 Ecological Modeling

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B330 Ecological Modeling (1 Unit) Unraveling the complexity of ecological systems calls for increasingly sophisticated quantitative approaches. Statistical models and simulations built on empirical data offer the means of exploring complex ecological questions to better understand ecological processes and inform environmental decisions. This class will introduce students to a variety of ecological models while instilling an appreciation for the strengths and limitations of each modeling technique, vital to characterizing inferences made from them. The course will be taught as a hands-on integrated lab/lecture, and students will be expected to program regularly, primarily in R. Prerequisite: BIOL B215 or BIOL B250.

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BIOL B337 Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine

Fall 2026

BIOL B337 Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (1 Unit) In this course we will explore the molecular and cellular biology of stem cells and regeneration, and examine experimental evidence demonstrating the underlying mechanisms and clinical applications of stem cell biology. Topics will include stem cell physiology, niches, embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, limb/tissue regeneration, therapeutics, and regenerative bioengineering. Content information in this class will be supplemented by a student-driven journal club that will discuss experimental techniques and findings from recent primary research articles. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisite: Any 200 level BIOL class. Enrollment Cap 16. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior BIOL/BCMB Majors (preference to students using this course for Senior Capstone requirement), then Junior BIOL/BCMB Majors, then random.

Course does not meet an Approach

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BIOL B338 Advanced Topics in Neurobiology: Learning and Memory

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B338 Learning and Memory (1 Unit) This course will focus on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and presentations, we will explore primary scientific literature covering multiple model organisms, learning paradigms, and experimental techniques. Development of oral presentation skills will be strongly emphasized. Lecture three hours per week. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisite: BIOL B202; OR PSYC H217 or PSYC B218 (Behavioral Neuroscience) AND any 200-level Biology course; or permission of instructor. Enrollment Cap 16. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Biology and Neuroscience majors and minors by class (seniors then juniors), then Senior; then Junior; then Sophomore.

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BIOL B344 Sensory Physiology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B344 Sensory Physiology (1 Unit) How do animals sense the world around them? How does an animal's physiology shape its experience of the world? In this class, we will cover the processes underlying animal sensing, including the senses familiar to us - vision (seeing), audition (hearing), somatosensation (touch), olfaction (smell), and gustation (taste) - as well as those we lack, such as electroreception and magnetoreception. The course will focus on the structures and transduction mechanisms that convert sensory signals in the outside world to neural signals. We will highlight commonalities across sensory systems in divergent organisms, as well as examine how animals have evolved unique sensory systems suited to their particular environments. Three hours of lecture, three hours of lab per week. Prerequisite: BIOL B202, or permission of instructor. Enrollment limit 12. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior; Junior; Sophomore; Major/Minor/Concentration.

Writing Attentive

Counts Toward: Neuroscience.

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BIOL B347 Neural Coding

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B347 Neural Coding (1 Unit) How do patterns of electrical activity in the brain represent information about the outside world, our movements, and our thoughts? In this course, we will discuss scientists' attempts to decipher this "neural code, " examining current knowledge and theories of how information is represented and processed in the brain. We will consider the roles of individual neurons, small neural circuits, and larger brain areas. Topics include: tuning curves, rate and temporal codes, noise and variability, population codes, oscillations and synchrony, and neural adaptation. We will also discuss existing and emerging technologies that are enabled by our understanding of the neural code, as well as the ethical questions raised by these technologies. This course does not involve programming. Prerequisite: BIOL B202 or permission of instructor.

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BIOL B352 Immunology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B352 Immunology (1 Unit) An introduction to immunology with a focus on the dynamic network of molecules and cells underlying the vertebrate immune response. This problem-based workshop course uses primary research articles and a curiosity-driven, open-ended laboratory research project to make sense of complicated biology and empower each student to build a big-picture view of this fast-moving, interdisciplinary field. Key themes include: immune cell specification and development; molecular recognition and immune cell signaling; generation of immunological memory; and cancer immunotherapies. Learning strategies include problem solving, small group discussion, and critical analysis of the primary literature. Three hours of class meetings and three hours of lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL B110 and any 200-level course in Biology. Enrollment cap 20. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior; Junior; Sophomore; Major/Minor/Concentration

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BIOL B354 Basic Concepts and Special Topics in Biochemistry

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B354 Basic Concepts and Special Topics in Biochemistry (1 Unit) For post-baccalaureate premedical students and non-majors with instructor permission. Course does not count toward the Biology, Chemistry or BCMB Majors; students majoring in Biology, Chemistry or BCMB should take BIOL B375 or CHEM B242. Prerequisites: BIOL B110 and CHEM 211, or permission of the instructor.

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BIOL B375 Biochemistry

Fall 2026

BIOL B375 Biochemistry (1 Unit) This course will focus on the structure and function of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, enzyme kinetics, and central metabolic pathways. Students will explore these topics via lecture, critical reading and discussion of primary literature and laboratory experimentation. Three hours of lecture, three hours of lab per week. Prerequisites: BIOL B110 and two semesters of Organic Chemistry (CHEM B211/B212). Enrollment Limit 18. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Preference will be given to seniors and juniors who are majoring in Biology or BCMB at ±©·ç×ÊÔ´.

Writing Attentive

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology.

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BIOL B376 Molecular Biology

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B376 Molecular Biology (1 Unit) This course focuses on the analysis of nucleic acids and gene regulation through lecture, critical reading and discussion of primary literature and laboratory experimentation. Three hours of lecture, three hours of lab per week. Prerequisite: BIOL 201 or BIOL B375 or permission of instructor. Enrollment Cap 16. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior; Junior; Sophomore; Major/Minor/Concentration; Questionnaire/Lottery;

Writing Attentive

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology.

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BIOL B380 Ecological Restoration and Sustainability

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B380 Ecological Restoration and Sustainability This course will explore the science and practice of ecological restoration with a focus on transforming our own campus into a model of sustainability. Students will engage in hands-on projects to restore local ecosystems, reduce environmental impact, and reimagine the campus as a living laboratory for ecological resilience. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisite(s): BIOL B220, or BIOL B225, or BIOL B262 or permission of instructor.

Quantitative Readiness Required (QR)

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BIOL B385 Phenotypic Plasticity and Evolution

Not offered 2026-27

BIOL B385 Phenotypic Plasticity and Evolution (1 Unit) The ability to respond adaptively to challenges posed by the environment is a fundamental feature of life, but such responses often occur within short, non-evolutionary timeframes, without genetic change. From predator-induced defenses to seasonally induced changes in behavior or morphology, all are examples of phenotypic plasticity. In this seminar we will explore the genetic and developmental basis of plasticity, how plasticity evolves, and how plasticity affects evolutionary change. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. Prerequisite(s): BIOL B201, or BIOL B216, or BIOL B236, or BIOL B271. Enrollment Cap 16. Serves as capstone eligible course for Biology majors. If the course exceeds the enrollment cap the following criteria will be used for the lottery: Senior BIOL/BCMB Majors (preference to students using this course for Senior Capstone requirement), then Junior BIOL/BCMB Majors, then random.

Writing Attentive

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BIOL B398 Senior Seminar

A senior seminar course in which students investigate a broad topic in biology. Students will also write and present an independent research paper and facilitate class discussions about their topic. Potential topics for independent research are based on your own interests. Three hours of discussion per week, supplemented by frequent individual meetings with instructor. Open to senior Biology majors only.

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BIOL B400 Senior Research

BIOL B400 Senior Research (1 Unit) Independent laboratory research in the senior year, which includes written and oral presentation of a senior paper based on this research. Capstone option for Biology majors. Permission of instructor required.

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BIOL B403 Supervised Laboratory Research in Biology

BIOL B403 Supervised Laboratory Research in Biology (0.5-1 Unit) Laboratory research under the supervision of a member of the department. Permission of instructor required.

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BIOL B403 Supervised Laboratory Research in Biology

BIOL B403 Supervised Laboratory Research in Biology (0.5-1 Unit) Laboratory research under the supervision of a member of the department. Permission of instructor required.

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ANTH B208 Human Biology

Not offered 2026-27

This course will be a survey of modern human biological variation. We will examine the patterns of morphological and genetic variation in modern human populations and discuss the evolutionary explanations for the observed patterns. A major component of the class will be the discussion of the social implications of these patterns of biological variation, particularly in the construction and application of the concept of race. Prerequisite: ANTH 101 or permission of instructor.

Power, Inequity, and Justice (PIJ)

Counts Toward: Biology; Health Studies; Health Studies.

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ANTH B317 Disease and Human Evolution

Fall 2026

Pathogens and humans have been having an "evolutionary arms race" since the beginning of our species. In this course, we will examine how natural selection and other evolutionary forces shape our susceptibility to disease, and how we have adapted to resist disease. We will also address how concepts of Darwinian medicine impact our understanding of how people might be treated most effectively. We will focus on infectious and chronic diseases, and the anthropogenic effects contributing to the observed distribution of various diseases and illnesses, such as climate change and racism, and their interactions.

Counts Toward: Biology; Health Studies.

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CHEM B103 General Chemistry I

Fall 2026

This is an introductory course in chemistry, open to students with no previous chemistry experience. Topics include aqueous solutions and solubility; the electronic structure of atoms and molecules; chemical reactions and energy; intermolecular forces. Examples discussed in lecture and laboratory include applications of the material to environmental sciences, material science and biological chemistry. Lecture three hours, recitation one hour and laboratory three hours a week. Prerequisite: Quantitative Readiness Required.

Quantitative Methods (QM)

Quantitative Readiness Required (QR)

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biology; Neuroscience.

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CHEM B104 General Chemistry II

Section 001 (Spring 2026): Enriched Section

Not offered 2026-27

For students who have completed General Chemistry I or have some previous work in chemistry. Topics include chemical kinetics; aqueous solutions and solubility; chemical equilibrium; electrochemistry; thermochemistry. Examples discussed in lecture and laboratory workshop include nuclear chemistry, geochemistry, environmental sciences, material sciences and biological chemistry. One section of the course is designed for students considering a major in the sciences and takes an interdisciplinary approach to the course topics. Lecture three hours, recitation one hour and laboratory three hours a week. Prerequisite: CHEM B103 with a grade of at least 2.0 or permission of the instructor.

Quantitative Methods (QM)

Quantitative Readiness Required (QR)

Scientific Investigation (SI)

Counts Toward: Biochemistry & Molecular Bio; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biochemistry Molecular Biology; Biology.

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