BIOL 100
The Biology of Human Reproduction
An introductory course focusing on human reproduction to demonstrate some basic biological principles. The course includes discussion of cellular and organismal processes related to the development of human biological complexity. Current research in reproductive biology and its impact on the individual and society is considered. Lecture and laboratory. Primarily for non-science majors; credit not applicable to the biology major.
Units: 6.
Also listed as Gender Studies 180
BIOL 103
Biotechnology and Society
An examination of basic biological principles underlying current biotechnology in the fields of human genetics and genetic engineering. Discussion of methods of basic scientific research, the impact of technology on society, and ethical problems in human and agricultural genetics. Credit not applicable to biology major. Weekly laboratories will introduce basic experimental methodology and procedures.
Units: 6.
BIOL 130
Integrative Biology: Cells to Organisms
An exploration of fundamental cellular processes in an evolutionary context including homeostasis, cell cycle, gene expression, cell communication, inheritance, and multi-cellular development. Experimental approaches will be emphasized. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
BIOL 150
Integrative Biology: Organisms to Ecosystems
Development, morphology, physiology, and ecology of plants, animals, fungi and unicellular organisms will be compared in evolutionary context. Phylogenic relationships, ecological interactions, and ecosystem processes will be explored. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 110, BIOL 130, or departmental examination
BIOL 170
Integrative Biology: Experimental Design and Analysis
An introduction to experimental and sampling design in the fields of biology and biochemistry, as well as methods of data analysis and interpretation. The connection between statistical analysis and experimental design will be emphasized. Topics include descriptive, exploratory, and confirmatory statistical analyses. Lecture and computer laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 150 or consent of instructor
BIOL 191
Directed Study in Biology
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
BIOL 200
Animal Behavior
A lecture and field-study course examining the principles and problems of animal behavior. Subjects include orientation, feeding, locomotion, communication, escape in time and space, biological rhythms, mate choice, and aspects of social behavior, examined from evolutionary, ontogenetic, physiological, ecological, and ethological perspectives. Lecture and laboratory. May be taken separately or as part of the Marine Biology Term.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 140 or BIOL 150
Also listed as Environmental Studies 210
BIOL 210
Biodiversity
The influence of climate on global habitats is considered. Selected terrestrial life zones, including Mediterrenean, montane, desert, and grasslands, are analyzed and stresses produced by climate and habitat evaluated. Adaptive responses at the morphological and physiological levels are investigated and scientific principles are applied to contemporary ethical issues, including restoration and conservation ecology. Lecture only.
Units: 6.
Also listed as Environmental Studies 211
BIOL 211
Plant Life
Laboratories, lectures, and discussion designed to introduce the student to the unique adaptations that make plants environmentally competitive. Special attention will be given to the value and use of those adaptations in human cultures.
For students who entered Lawrence in 2011 or earlier: If a student has already taken BIOL 120, BIOL 211 may not be used as an upper-level course in the major. BIOL 211 may be used to fulfill either the introductory requirement (replacing BIOL 120) OR an upper-level lab/field course for the major, but not both.
Units: 6.
BIOL 212
Origins: Solar System, Earth, Life
This course explores questions of deep origins—of the Solar System, Earth, and Life—and how these can be addressed through the methods of physics, geology, and biology. Topics considered include stellar evolution, planetary formation, the origin of the Moon, the differentiation of the Earth, and geological and biological constraints on the nature of the earliest lifeforms.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: Introductory course in any two different natural sciences; at least one intermediate course in a natural science; and at least sophomore standing.
Also listed as Physics 212, Geology 215
BIOL 222
Parasitology
Students will examine and compare the complex life cycles of a variety of parasites, including those of medical and veterinary importance. Specific topics covered within the course will include: parasite biochemistry, ecology, parasite evasion of the host immune system, host immune responses, how parasites may alter host behavior. The laboratory component of the course will include both live and preserved specimens.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 140 or BIOL 150
BIOL 226
Microbiology
A study of microbial life with an emphasis on prokaryotes. Microbial physiology is examined in the context of how unique characteristics allow microbes to exploit a vast diversity of environments, including the human body. Laboratory exercises introduce students to techniques used to safely study microorganisms.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 110 or BIOL 130, and CHEM 115 or CHEM 116
BIOL 230
General Ecology
An introduction to the interactions between organisms and the environment, exploring the role of physical, chemical, and biotic processes, including human activities, in determining the structure and function of populations, communities, and ecosystems. Topics include resource availability, competition, predation, symbiosis, and natural and anthropogenic disturbances such as disease, biological invasions, pollution, and climate change. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Also listed as Environmental Studies 220
BIOL 231
Physiological Ecology
Biological stresses induced by environmental variables are described. Physiological and molecular adaptations associated with flowering, disease resistance, pollination, germination, and nutrient uptake and partitioning are discussed and investigated, using both field and laboratory experience. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 110 or BIOL 130
Also listed as Environmental Studies 212
BIOL 235
Evolutionary Biology
A study of biological evolution, including natural selection, adaptation, the evolution of sex, speciation, extinction, and constraints on evolutionary change. Reading primary literature is emphasized. Two lectures and one discussion per week.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 110 or BIOL 130 or ANTH 140
Also listed as Environmental Studies 213
BIOL 237
General Endocrinology
An examination of the endocrine system, a major regulator of an animal’s development, physiology, and behavior. Attention to both classic techniques and recent developments involving hormones and other chemical mediators such as neurohormones, neurotransmittors, pheromones, and chemical inductors. Lecture only.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 150
BIOL 240
Morphogenesis of the Vertebrates
An integrated lecture and laboratory course that undertakes the study of the structure and function of vertebrate organ systems through examination of morphology. Vertebrate ontogeny, phylogeny, and anatomy are addressed.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 140 or BIOL 150
BIOL 241
Cell Physiology
The structure and organization of the eukaryotic cell are described and employed to understand functional interrelationships at the organelle and molecular levels. Major processes considered include external environmental control mechanisms, developmental events, the regulation of energy exchange, and membrane function. Lecture only.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 110 or BIOL 130
BIOL 242
Comparative Physiology
A comparative study of the variety of solutions and adaptations diverse animals can make to similar problems — obtaining and transporting oxygen, maintaining water and salt balance, utilizing food, movement, and nervous and hormonal integration. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 140 or BIOL 150
BIOL 245
Conservation Biology
This course explores scientific concepts related to the conservation and restoration of Earth's biological diversity. Topics include patterns of species and ecosystem diversity, the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, causes of extinction, assessing extinction risk, behavioral indicators,
in-situ and
ex-situ management strategies for endangered species, and ecosystem restoration. Lecture only.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 110 or BIOL 150, and sophomore standing
Also listed as Environmental Studies 245
BIOL 250
The Vegetation of Wisconsin
The principles of plant-environment interrelationships are developed through extensive field study of Wisconsin vegetation. Emphasis is placed on the manner in which physical and biological factors influence competition, adaptation, and structure in major local habitats. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Also listed as Environmental Studies 214
BIOL 260
Genetics
A lecture and laboratory study of the principles of inheritance, gene expression, introductory genomics, sex determination, and the concepts of historical and modern eugenics and genetic engineering.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and BIOL 110 or BIOL 170 (or concurrent enrollment) or ANTH 140
BIOL 280
Experimental Design and Statistics
An introduction to the design of sampling programs and experiments in biological studies, as well as methods of data analysis and interpretation. Course highlights the importance of considering possible statistical analyses when planning studies, including the role of descriptive, exploratory, and confirmatory statistics in data analysis and interpretation. Lecture only.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 140 or 170
BIOL 325
Cell Biology
Survey of the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, the basic functional unit of life. Correlation of cellular structures including organelles, proteins, and membranes with functions such as cellular communication, division, transport, movement, and secretory pathways will be analyzed. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: One of BIOL 260, BIOL 354, BIOL 444, or concurrent enrollment or consent of instructor
BIOL 330
Aquatic Ecology
The principles of the ecology of fresh waters, developed through discussions, laboratory, and field investigations of the functional relationships and productivity of biotic communities as they are affected by the dynamics of physical, chemical, and biotic parameters. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 140 or BIOL 170 (or concurrent enrollment) or BIOL 230
Also listed as Environmental Studies 310
BIOL 335
Plant Ecology
This course emphasizes core concepts in ecology and evolution from the unique perspective of plants. Students will explore the interactions between plants and their environment over a range of scales; from individuals to populations and communities, to landscapes and global patterns. Lecture and laboratory.
For students who entered Lawrence in 2011 or earlier: BIOL 335 may be used to fulfill either the introductory requirement (replacing BIOL 120) OR an upper-level lab/field course for the major, but not both.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 170, BIOL 140, or BIOL 120
Also listed as Environmental Studies 340
BIOL 340
Topics in Neuroscience
A study of the nervous system from the perspectives of psychology and biology. Topics vary year to year and may include glial cells, neural development, and the evolution of nervous systems and neurotransmitter systems. Lecture only. May be repeated when topic is different.
Topic for Winter 2014: The Mindful Brain
Mindfulness meditation involves paying attention, on purpose and without judgment. With roots in Eastern philosophy, it has been applied to the treatment of various physical and mental conditions in contemporary Western medicine and psychotherapy. This course will explore research on how mindfulness meditation changes the brain.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: CHEM 116 and either BIOL 140 or BIOL 150, and one course in psychology; or PSYC 360 and one course in biology; or consent of instructor
Also listed as Psychology 580
BIOL 345
Terrestrial Field Ecology
A hands-on course intended to demonstrate basic ecological principles using local terrestrial ecosystems. Field research projects will introduce students to methods in hypothesis development, experimental design, data collection, statistical analysis, and scientific writing and presentation. Research topics will include estimating population size, community structure, plant-animal interactions, and foraging behavior. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 120 or BIOL 140 or BIOL 170, and sophomore standing
Also listed as Environmental Studies 345
BIOL 354
Molecular Biology
An interdisciplinary examination of regulatory mechanisms leading to differential gene expression. Main topics include transcription, translation, gene and protein structure, and modern genomics. The application of current molecular techniques is emphasized throughout the course. Laboratory work is experimental in approach. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 110 or BIOL 130, and CHEM 115
BIOL 356
Genomics
An overview of the recently emerged field of bioinformatics. Classes will include lectures and computer practicals. Topics covered will include: genome projects, DNA and protein sequence analysis, multiple sequence alignments, searching biological databases, protein structure prediction, transcriptomes and proteomes, and microarrays.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: One of BIOL 260, BIOL 351, BIOL 354, BIOL 444, or CHEM 340
BIOL 390
Tutorial Studies in Biology
Individual investigations of problems in biology.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required
BIOL 391
Directed Study in Biology
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
BIOL 399
Independent Study in Biology
Individual, in-depth investigation of a specific biological problem. Students contemplating an honors project should register for this course.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required
BIOL 430
Immunology
This course will cover the basic concepts of immunology, including differentiation of immune cells, antibody structure and function, antigen-antibody reactions, the major-histocompatibility complex, the complement system, immune responses to pathogens, allergies and auto-immune diseases, and comparative immunology. The course will also examine recent advances in the field through current peer-reviewed publications. The weekly laboratory will examine the basic questions, experimental subjects, and procedures of the field.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor
BIOL 434
Ecological Energetics
Field and laboratory experimental investigations of the transfer and transformation of energy or energy-containing materials between and within organisms and populations of aquatic ecosystems. Part of the Marine Biology Term. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 330, concurrent enrollment in BIOL 505 and 226 and consent of instructor
Also listed as Environmental Studies 410
BIOL 435
Environmental Microbiology
An investigation of how microbial organisms use and influence their environment. Experiments in the field and laboratory will explore the roles of microbes in ecosystems with a particular focus on the transfer of energy within and between organisms. Part of the Marine Biology Term.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 330, concurrent enrollment in BIOL 505 and BIOL 200, and consent of instructor
Also listed as Environmental Studies 440
BIOL 444
Biochemistry I
An introduction to the study of biological processes at the molecular level with emphases on protein struction and function, enzyme mechanism and kinetics, fundamentals of physical biochemistry, and the chemistry of biological molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: CHEM 250 or concurrent enrollment, or consent of instructor
Also listed as Chemistry 340
BIOL 450
Special Topics in Biology
A course designed to offer students an opportunity to study important issues in biology not covered in other regularly offered classes. Activities may include reading and analysis of material from primary literature, consideration of interdisciplinary connections, and field and laboratory activities.
Topic for Spring 2014: Primate Cognition and Communication
This seminar course critically examines the study of communication and cognition among primates. Brain morphology and function will be explored in correlation to communication and cognitive studies conducted in both human and non-human primates. Further, throughout the course the evolution of the human brain, cognition, and language will be analyzed. NOTE: This class may be applied to requirements for the neuroscience interdisciplinary area.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and one of the following: ANTH 140, BIOL 140, BIOL 150, consent of the instructor
Also listed as Anthropology 540
BIOL 451
Introduction to Primate Behavior and Ecology
This course provides an introduction to the Order
Primates. In addition to exploring the behavior and ecology of prosimians, monkeys, and apes, the course will cover techniques in primate behavioral observation. Further, biological and social adaptations will be examined in an evolutionary context.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and one of the following: ANTH 140, BIOL 140, BIOL 150, consent of instructor
Also listed as Anthropology 348
BIOL 453
Developmental Biology
An experimental approach to animal development with laboratory and lecture emphasis on the molecular and cellular level. Includes discussions of pattern formation, differentiation, cell interactions, gametogenesis, fertilization, and early embryogenesis. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 140 or BIOL 150; and one of the following (or concurrent enrollment): BIOL 241, BIOL 444/CHEM 340, BIOL 260, BIOL 325
BIOL 455
Biochemistry II
A continuation of Biochemistry I. A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on metabolic pathways, recent advances in biochemical medicine, and biochemical aspects of gene replication, protein synthesis, molecular motors, and sensing. The course is divided between lecture and discussion and will rely heavily on current biochemical literature.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: CHEM 340 or consent of instructor
Also listed as Chemistry 440
BIOL 505
Coral Reef Environments
Examines the ecology of coral reef environments. Lecture, laboratory, and field components. Part of the Marine Biology Term. Lecture and laboratory.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 330 and concurrent enrollment in BIOL 226 and BIOL 434
Also listed as Environmental Studies 505
BIOL 520
Cancer Biology
An advanced seminar covering key areas of cancer biology, including epidemiology, molecular diagnostics, mechanisms of carcinogenesis, and current treatments. Students will undertake critical review of current literature in these fields and will have input into course content.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: BIOL 241 or BIOL 260 or BIOL 354 or BIOL 444
BIOL 570
Biological Physics
Develops and explores the physical principles underlying biological systems, with a particular emphasis on building quantitative models. Applies fundamental topics including thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, elasticity, and electrostatics to model molecular and cellular phenomena such as gene expression, virus assembly, DNA bending and stretching, and nerve impulses.
Units: 6.
Prerequisite: PHYS 151, and one of PHYS 230, CHEM 252, CHEM 340, or BIOL 354
Also listed as Physics 570
BIOL 590
Tutorial Studies in Biology
Individual investigations of problems in biology.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required
BIOL 591
Directed Study in Biology
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
BIOL 599
Independent Study in Biology
Individual, in-depth investigation of a specific biological problem. Students contemplating an honors project should register for this course.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required
BIOL 600
Recent Advances in Biology Seminar
A multidisciplinary lecture series on modern biological theory and research. Students attend seminars and prepare short summaries or “reaction papers” on topics covered. Biology faculty members and visiting scientists in biological and allied fields present seminars relating their research to the broader aspects of their disciplines. Topics discussed within any academic year provide a comprehensive exposure to the current frontiers of biological research. May be repeated for a maximum of three units.
Units: 1.
Prerequisite: Senior standing and declared major in biology, or consent of instructor
BIOL 650
Biology Senior Capstone
Senior capstone in which students will benefit from direct input and feedback on their scientific writing and oral presentation skills as they complete senior experience projects and papers. Successful completion of BIOL 650 includes participation in BioFest, a symposium of biology senior experience projects during spring term and successful completion of two terms of the Recent Advances in Biology lecture series. Offerred fall and spring terms only.
Units: 1 OR 5.
Prerequisite: Biology and biochemistry majors only; senior class standing except by permission.
BIOL 690
Tutorial Studies in Biology
Individual investigations of problems in biology.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required
BIOL 691
Directed Study in Biology
Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required.
BIOL 699
Independent Study in Biology
Individual, in-depth investigation of a specific biological problem. Students contemplating an honors project should register for this course.
Units: 1 TO 98.
Prerequisite: Counter Registration Required
