Courses
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100-level courses | 200-level courses | 300-level courses | Departmental Honors
BISC 104 Science or Science Fiction?
This course will examine the scientific facts behind phenomena portrayed in a variety of Hollywood and foreign movies. We will cover topics ranging from the definition and recreation of life, genetics, behavior to evolution and environmental issues. The course will include weekly screenings of movies outside of class time as well as lectures, assigned readings, and discussions. While obtaining an introduction to key concepts in biology, students will also explore misconceptions about science and scientists that are perpetuated by these movies.
Prerequisites: Fulfillment of the basic skills component of the Quantitative Reasoning requirement. Preference given to first-year students and sophomores.
Distribution: Natural and Physical Sciences
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BISC 105 Stem Cells: A New Frontier in Biomedicine
The exciting area of stem cell research has led to many recent discoveries. As researchers have learned more about the properties of these amazing cells, many potential biomedical applications have been envisioned. In this course, we will focus on understanding the unique biological properties of stem cells, and how these cells might lead to novel patient therapies. Questions to be addressed include: How were stem cells discovered? Where do stem cells come from, and what are stem cell lines? What are the similarities and differences between embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, and recently discovered "induced pluripotent stem cells"? We will also discuss the bioethical issues and scientific controversies associated with recent stem cell discoveries. Promising areas of current research will be described.
Prerequisites: Fulfillment of the basic skills component of the Quantitative Reasoning requirement. Preference given to first-year students and sophomores.
Distribution: Natural and Physical Sciences
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BISC 107 Biotechnology
This course focuses on applications of recently developed biological techniques, including recombinant DNA, antibody techniques and reproductive technology. The social and ethical issues surrounding these techniques are also discussed. No prior knowledge of biology is expected, as all necessary background information will be discussed.
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BISC 108 Horticulture with Laboratory
This course will emphasize plant structure, growth and function. Topics will include plant adaptations, reproduction, environmentally sound landscape practices, urban horticulture, and the use of medicinal plants. The laboratory involves extensive use of the greenhouses, experimental design, data collection and analysis, and field trips.
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BISC 109 Human Biology with Laboratory
The study of human physiology, including nutrition, nervous system, endocrinology, reproduction, circulation, respiration, genetics and immune responses. Laboratories involve data collection using computers, physiological test equipment, limited animal dissection and personal nutrition study.
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BISC 110 Introductory Cell Biology with Laboratory
Introduction to eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structure, chemistry and function. Topics include: cell metabolism, genetics, cellular interactions and mechanisms of growth and differentiation. Laboratories focus on experimental approaches to these topics.
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BISC
110 DL Intensive Cell Biology Laboratory
An intensive
exploration of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structure, chemistry, and
function with an emphasis on laboratory methods, data analysis, and science writing.
Topics include: cell metabolism, genetics, cellular interactions, and mechanisms
of
growth and differentiation. This course requires previous preparation in cell
biology and
meets for one discussion and one lab session per week. Not open to students who
have
taken BISC 110 or [110X]. Prerequisite: A score of 5 on the Biology AP test or
6 or 7 on the IB, and completion of at least one semester of college laboratory
science with a grade of B+ or better.
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BISC 111 Introductory Organismal Biology with Laboratory
Introduction to the central questions, concepts, and methods of experimental analysis in selected areas of organismal biology. Topics include: evolution, ecology, and plant and animal structure and physiology.
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BISC
111 DL Intensive Organismal Biology Laboratory
An intensive
exploration of the central questions, concepts, and methods of experimental
analysis in selected areas of organismal biology with an emphasis on laboratory
methods,
data analysis, and science writing. Topics include: evolution, ecology, and plant
and
animal structure and physiology. This course requires previous preparation in
organismal
biology and meets for one discussion and one lab session per week. Not open to
students
who have taken BISC 111 or [111X]. Prerequisite: A score of 5 on the Biology
AP test or 6 or 7 on the IB, and completion of at least one semester of college
laboratory science with a grade of B+ or better.
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BISC
111T Tropical Island Biology with Laboratory
Summer School Course at
the Central
Caribbean Marine Institute on Little
Cayman, Cayman Islands. Introduction to evolution, ecology, plants and animals
using a tropical island system as a model. We investigate the biology of coral
reefs, mangrove swamps, and dry forests and the threats that these ecosystems
face. The lab component will
include an introduction to the fauna and flora of the island and the surrounding
reefs. Half the course is taught at Wellesley and the other half is held
at CCMI. Field excursions will include visits to the diverse habitats on the
island and snorkeling trips.
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BISC 198 Statistics in the Biosciences
This course combines statistical theory and practical application, the latter using examples from ecology and experimental biology to illustrate some of the more common techniques of experimental design and data analysis. Students will learn how to plan an experiment and consider the observations, measurements, and potential statistical tests before data are collected and analalyzed. Other topics include graphical representation of data, probability distributions and their applications, one- and two-way ANOVA and t-tests, regression and correlation, goodness-of-fit tests, and non-parametric alternatives. Students will design and analyze their own experiment in the interactive laboratory component of class. Students also learn to use statistical computer software.
Prerequisites: Fulfillment of the basic skills component of the Quantitative Reasoning requirement and one course in biology, chemistry, or environmental science. Fulfills the Quantitative Reasoning overlay course requirement.
Distribution: Natural and Physical Sciences
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BISC
201 Ecology with Laboratory
An introduction
to the scientific study of interactions between organisms and their environments.
Topics include adaptations to environmental constraints, foraging, reproduction,
population growth and regulation, species interactions, and the structure and
function of biological communities and ecosystems. Emphasis is placed on experimental
ecology and its uses in solving environmental problems. Local biological habitats
including lakes, forests, marshes, bogs, tundra, and streams are studied during
laboratory field trips.
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BISC 202 Evolution with Laboratory
Examination of evolution, the central paradigm of biology, at the level of populations, species, and lineages. Topics include the genetics of populations, the definition of species, the roles of natural selection and chance in evolution, the reconstruction of phylogeny using molecular and morphological evidence, and patterns in the origination, diversity, and extinction of species over time.
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BISC 203 Comparative Physiology and Anatomy of Vertebrates with Laboratory
The functional anatomy of vertebrate animals, with an emphasis on comparison among representative groups. The course covers topics in thermoregulatory, osmoregulatory, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, neural and ecological physiology. The laboratories incorporate the study of preserved materials and physiological experiments.
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BISC 206 Histology I: Microscopic Anatomy of Mammals with Laboratory
The structure and function of mammalian tissues, and their cells, using light microscope, histochemical and electron microscopic techniques. Topics covered include the connective tissues, epithelia, nervous tissue, blood, lymphoid tissue and immunology, as well as others. Laboratory study includes direct experience with selected techniques.
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BISC 207 The Biology of Plants with Laboratory
An introduction to experimental plant biology. Topics will include growth and development, stress physiology, plant defense, applications of genetic engineering to the study and improvement of plants and the properties of medicinal plants. The project-oriented laboratory sessions with include field work as well as an introduction to some of the molecular and cellular techniques currently employed in answering research questions in plant biology.
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BISC 209 Microbiology with Laboratory
Introduction to the microbial world, with emphasis on bacteria and viruses and their activities in nature, using examples of how these microbes influence human activity. Both medicinal and non-medicinal applications, and useful (food production, genetic engineering) as well as harmful (disease, bioterrorism) consequences of microbes will be discussed along with consideration of biological principles and techniques characterizing the organisms.
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BISC 210 Marine Biology with Laboratory
Oceans cover more than 70% of the earth's surface and are our planet's primary life support system. This course examines adaptations and interactions of plants, animals and their environments in marine habitats. Focal habitats include the photic zone of the open ocean, the deep-sea, subtidal and intertidal zones, estuaries, and coral reefs. Emphasis is placed on the dominant organisms, food webs, and experimental studies conducted within each habitat.
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BISC 213 The Biology of Brain and Behavior with Laboratory
An introduction to the study of the nervous system and behavior with particular emphasis on the structure and function of the nervous system. In the first half of the semester, basic neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, and neurophysiology are covered. In the second half of the semester, brain mechanisms involved in sensation, language, addiction, memory, and cognition are emphasized. The laboratory is designed to expose the student to basic neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, and neurophysiology.
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BISC 216 Mechanisms of Animal Development with Laboratory
In this course, we will explore animal development beginning with the process of fertilization. We consider how a single cell gives rise to the many specialized types of the adult. The mechanisms that determine cell fate as the multicellular embryo differentiates will be discussed. Topics will include: embryonic induction, pattern formation, organogenesis (organ development), regeneration, and stem cells. Laboratories will focus on experimental approaches to development.
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BISC 219 Molecular Genetics with Laboratory
The course will be devoted to an understanding of the molecular and biochemical basis of genetics and the interactions between cells that provide the basis for tissue and organismal development. Topics will include organization of the eukaryotic genome, gene structure and function, differential gene expression, cellular and tissue differentiation including aspects of both animal and plant development, and genetics of pattern formation. Laboratory experiments will expose students to the fundamentals of molecular genetics.
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BISC 220 Cellular Physiology with Laboratory
This course will focus on structure/function relationships in eukaryotic cells. Topics will include: enzyme structure and kinetics, bioenergetics, protein-protein interactions, membrane and membrane-bound organelle structure and function, cytoskeleton, transport mechanisms, cell communication and signaling. The laboratory consists of three projects: enzyme purification and characterization, the cytological and biochemical characterization of the actin cytoskeleton and mammalian cell culture and studies in programmed cell death.
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BISC 302 Animal Physiology with Laboratory
This course takes an integrated approach to the study of organ system function in animals, with an emphasis on human physiology. We will examine control mechanisms that allow the human body to maintain a constant balance in the face of environmental challenges such as exercise, temperature change and high altitude. Our particular focus will be recent findings in the areas of neural, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and muscle physiology. In the laboratory, students gain experience with tools of modern physiological research at both the cellular and organismal levels.
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BISC 303/CS 303 Bioinformatics
A multidisciplinary seminar exploring the origins, present and future applications and challenges of the intersection of biological and computer sciences. The field of bioinformatics generated in response to the era of genomics encompasses all aspects of biological data acquisition, storage, processing, analysis and interpretation with a view to generating in silico models of cellular function.
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BISC 304 Histology II: Microscopic Anatomy of Mammalian Systems with Laboratory
Analysis of structure-function relationships of mammalian systems, based principally on microscopic techniques. Examination of structural changes caused by selected disease states in each system, as well as discussion of recent literature. Laboratory study includes tissue preparation for microscopy, as well as hands-on experience at the transmission electron microscope and participation in a group research project.
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BISC 305 Seminar Evolution
Major events in the history of life. Origin of life from nonlife, evolution of replicatory molecules, origin of eukaryotic cellular structure, diversification of organic domains, kingdoms and animal phyla, development of strategies for life in terrestrial environments, patterns of extinction. The course will emphasize student participation and make extensive use of the original literature.
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BISC 306 Principles of Neural Development with Laboratory
Aspects of nervous system development and how they relate to the development of the organism as a whole. Topics such as neurogenesis, programmed cell death, axon guidance, synaptogenesis, transmitter plasticity, and the development of behavior are discussed. Laboratory sessions focus on a variety of methods used to define developing neural systems.
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BISC 307 Advanced Topics in Ecology with Laboratory
Topic for 2003-04: Ecology of Freshwaters with Laboratory. Rivers, lakes, and wetlands are among our richest ecosystems, yet their physical integrity and biotic diversity are the most imperiled. This course examines the biological, physical, and chemical processes that occur in flowing waters, wetlands, lakes and vernal pools. Lectures and discussions address key concepts for understanding, conserving and restoring freshwater ecosystems. Lab work will include field work in a variety of freshwater habitats, mathematical modeling, and an independent project carried out by each student.
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BISC 308 Tropical Ecology with Wintersession Laboratory
Ecology of coral reefs and rain forests are examined. Lectures and discussions
during the fall prepare students for the field laboratory taught in Belize
and Costa Rica. The first half of the laboratory is based on an island
bordering the world’s second longest barrier reef; living and laboratory
facilities for the second half of the course are located in an intact lowland
rain forest. Laboratory work is carried out primarily in the field and
includes introductions to the flora and fauna, as well as field tests of
student-generated hypotheses. Usually offered every other year. Subject
to Dean's Office approval
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BISC 310 Advanced Topics in Cellular Regulation with Laboratory
Eukaryotic cells possess a diverse array of molecular circuits that regulate their normal activities and respond to external signals. Common modes of regulation include modulation of protein expression or localization, covalent protein modifications, and protein-protein interactions. This course will rely heavily on current literature and student presentations to examine the molecular mechanisms that regulate such processes as cell division, DNA repair, stress responses, cell differentiation, and immune responses. Laboratory experiments will investigate several regulatory pathways using the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism.
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BISC 313 Microbial Physiology and Biochemistry with Laboratory
The study of the chemical activities (cellular growth and its physiological basis, metabolic patterns, biochemical and molecular genetics, and the relation of structure to function) of microorganisms as models of general biological phenomena. Emphasis on experimental approaches and current literature. In the laboratory, group experimental problems designed to allow the development of research techniques and analysis will be approached.
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BISC 315 Advanced Topics In Neurobiology with Laboratory
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BISC 316 Molecular Biology with Laboratory
The practical applications of recombinant DNA techniques to the study of the control and organization of genes at the molecular level. The course will be centered around a laboratory project designed to provide experience with the methodologies used in molecular biology (e.g., molecular cloning, gene mapping, mutagenesis and expression, DNA sequencing, computer analysis of nucleic acid and protein structure/function, bioinformatics).
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BISC 319 Population Genetics and Systematics with Laboratory - Evolution on Islands
In this course we will focus on patterns of population differentiation and speciation in oceanic islands. Little is known about the ecological and historical forces responsible for speciation although these are key for the generation of biological diversity. By looking at relationships between organisms, populations and species, we can interpret how historical processes can leave evolutionary footprints on the geographic distribution of traits. After a series of introductory lectures, the course format will be presentations and discussion of primary literature examining cases in archipelagos (Hawaii, Canaries and Galapagos). In the laboratory we will explore computational biology tools for analysis of DNA sequences, and apply methods of phylogeny, phylogeography reconstruction and population demographics. We will also explore the growing field of molecular dating of evolutionary events.
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BISC 320 The Proteomics of Eukaryotic Cells with Laboratory
The Human Genome Project and the sequencing of the genomes of several other organisms have provided biologists with vast storehouses of information. However, it is important to remember that DNA sequences are a recipe for life, not life itself. To a great extent the living condition arises from the complex interactions of thousands of cellular proteins. Research that focuses on the large-scale study of proteins is called proteomics. This course introduces students to the techniques utilized and the scientific questions being addressed in this newly emerging discipline. Student participation and the use of original literature will be emphasized. In the laboratory students will perform two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, yeast two-hybrid analysis and other selected techniques associated with the identification and characterization of proteins.
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BISC
321 Designs for Life: The Biomechanics of Animals and Plants
This
course will focus on how organisms cope with a complex physical world. Their
sophisticated designs withstand large environmental forces, caused by gravity,
wind, and water flow. Animals, as well as confronting the problems of not
falling over or apart, must overcome additional challenges associated with
locomotion. Biomaterials, including spider silk that’s stronger
than steel and springy tendons that power prodigious jumps, help make this
possible. Topics for discussion will include how biomaterials give organisms
structure and strength, how muscle acts as a biological motor during locomotion,
how animals swim and fly, and how they run, walk and jump effectively on
land. Class discussion and student presentation of recent primary literature
will be an integral part of the course. Prerequisite: Two units in Biological
Sciences at the 200 level or permission of instructor.
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BISC 327/ES 327 Seminar: Topics in Biodiversity.
Topic for 2009-10: Biodiversity in Context. Biodiversity, like sustainability, is a much-used term with a broad range of meanings. This seminar will examine what biodiversity means at a range of scales, from genetic variation within a single species, to the microbial community surrounding a single plant’s roots, through suburban backyards, cities and nature preserves, to whole continents and finally the planet. We will focus primarily on the biological implications of biodiversity loss for the relevant ecological community and ecosystem function, and how those implications affect humans. Students will interpret primary scientific literature and analyze data to test hypotheses generated by the class. The final paper for the course will be a grant proposal. 1.0 units K. Jones
Prerequisites: BISC201 or ES/GEOS201 or by permission of instructor
Distribution: Natural and Physical Sciences
Semester: Fall
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BISC 330 Seminar
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BISC 331 Seminar
This course will examine a new and exciting interface between ecology and physiology, in which naturally-occurring variation in the isotope ratios of C, N, O, and H can be used as "fingerprints" of biochemical, physiological, ecological, and ecosystem processes. These fingerprints reveal clues about how plants and animals interact with their environments. They can also be used to gain insights about past environments and the animals that inhabited them. The course format will be presentation and discussion of primary literature, after a segment to teach basic principles. Topics may include (but are not limited to) studies of migration, nutritional physiology, diet analysis, food web analysis, nutrient cycling, and paleoecology.
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BISC 332 Advanced Topics in Neuroscience
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BISC
334 Seminar: The Biology of Stem Cells
In this course, we will study stem cells in terms of molecular, cellular and
developmental biology. We will focus on different types of stem cells, particularly
embryonic stem cells, adult bone marrow stem cells, and adult neural stem cells.
More specifically, we will explore how stem cells develop, the criteria by
which stem cells are currently defined, and stem cell characteristics under
investigation. Current research in the area of therapeutic cloning (somatic
cell nuclear transfer) and potential stem cell therapies for the treatment
of degenerative diseases will also be discussed. Bioethical issues related
to stem cell biology will be described. Students will present and discuss original
literature throughout the course.
Prerequisites: BISC216 or BISC219 or BISC220
Distribution: Natural and Physical Sciences
Semester: Fall Unit: 1.0
BISC 338 Seminar: The Biology of Social Insects
Warfare, communication, agriculture, and caring for family are phenomena that are typically attributed to human societies, but social insects do these same things. In this course, we will explore the weird and wonderful world of social insects to discover their diverse strategies for success. We will learn about how conflict and selfishness have shaped the cooperative effort that characterizes these seemingly utopian communities. Topics will include the natural history of social insects, self organization in systems, models of division of labor, communication, and an examination of some of the biological oddities that have arisen as a result of kin selection. The format for the course will consist of demonstrations of basic principles, followed by discussion and presentation of classic literature and ground-breaking current research.
Prerequisites: BISC201 or BISC202 or by permission of instructor
Distribution: Natural and Physical Sciences
Semester: Spring
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BISC 350 Research or Individual Study
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BISC 360 Senior Thesis Research
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BISC 370 Senior Thesis
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