BIOLOGY 105 - MODERN BIOLOGICAL CONCEPTS

An introduction to biological concepts designed for non-science majors.  This course presents the central principles of biological theory: Cell structure and metabolisms, reproduction, genetics, biodiversity, ecology and evolution in relation to current issues.  The course provides students with an understanding of the living world through the process of science.

BIOLOGY 110 - PRINCIPLES OF BIOLOGY

An introductory biology course designed for students with interest in pursuing a major in science.  This course provides a rigorous scientific basis for the central concepts of biology and prepares students with a  foundation for further study.  Areas of study include biochemical aspects of cells, eukaryotic cellular structure, principles of cellular reproduction, mechanisms of inheritance, and processes of energy production and utilization.

BIOLOGY 145 - MODERN BIOLOGICAL CONCEPTS LAB

An introductory laboratory designed for non-science majors.  Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate the principles considered in BIO-105.  Topics include cellular structure, respiration and photosynthesis, ecological relationships, DNA structure and function, cellular reproduction, genetics, and evolution.

BIOLOGY 151 - PRINCIPLES OF BIOLOGY LAB

An introductory laboratory designed for students with interest in pursuing a major in science.  Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate the principles considered in BIO-110.  Topics include cellular structure, respiration, photosynthesis, DNA structure and function, cellular and organismal reproduction, and genetics.

BIOLOGY 203 - DEATH, DISEASE AND SEX IN THE LATE MEDIEVAL PERIOD
This course investigates how epidemic diseases shape human societies, and how continued cultural and technological innovation creates conditions favorable for such epidemics, Two disease complexes constitute the primary focus of this course; Black Death for the Middle Ages and Syphilis for the Renaissance. These will also serve as historical models for understanding current emerging diseases such as HIV, SARS, West Nile Virus, Mad Cow and Ebola. (Writing intensive)

BIOLOGY 204 - WOMEN IN SCIENCE

A course that delves into the role of women in science throughout history.  Students will examine the relationships of women to society in general and to science as it evolved through changing societies.  The lives of an assortment of women who contributed to scientific advancement will be examined.

BIOLOGY 205 - BIOLOGY AND SOCIETY

Recent advances in biology and medicine are creating many new and complex social issues and conflicts.  Developing a community of concerned responsibility to resolve these issues requires an understanding of the underlying biological principles involved and of the various potenial solutions.  Through a series of selected topics, Biology and Society will present the pertinent basic biological concepts and will foster discussion of values and issues involved in making personal decisions about each topic. 

BIOLOGY 208 - HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I

A lecture course on the functional anatomy of human cells and tissues, organization of the body, the integument, the skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system and sensory structures. The perspective of the course is on the relationship between structure and function, adaptation through evolution, and homeostasis.

BIOLOGY 209 - HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II

A lecture course on the functional anatomy of the endocrine system, reproductive system, digestive system, respiratory system, excretory system, and circulatory system.  The perspective of the course is on the relationship between structure and function, adaptation through evolution, and homeostasis.

BIOLOGY 211- PLANT BIOLOGY
Plant Biology emphasizes seed plant anatomy, morphology, physiology, evolution, and systematics, but surveys all other plant groups as well as fungi and algae.

BIOLOGY 215 - TROPICAL ECOSYSTEMS

An interdisciplinary field biology course with focus on tropical ecosystems, natural history, and conservation.  The ecological complexity of the tropics, the patterns of species diversity and the types of species interactions that characterize these systems are discussed, as well as how these ecological processes are affected by human activities.  The approach is experiential, with emphasis on developing scientific skills of observation, analysis, and critical thinking, and applying them to field research.  Study abroad course.

BIOLOGY 222 - ANIMAL BIOLOGY
A comparative phylogenetic study of protozoans and animalians. For each taxon, structural and functional consideration will be given to systems of maintenance, activity and continuity. The course will also emphasize the ecology, behavior, and evolution of each group.

BIOLOGY 225 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Application of scientific principles to the study, conservation, and management of the environment with emphasis on critical thinking and problem solving used to study this broad field. 

BIOLOGY 241 - PLANT BIOLOGY LAB
Laboratory study of plants to illustrate and supplement lecture material presented in BIO-211. Laboratory exercises will deal with life cycles and morphology of the major groups of the plant kingdom, anatomy and morphology of higher plants, and experiments in plant physiology.

BIOLOGY 242 - ANIMAL BIOLOGY LAB

Laboratory studies include specific reference to classification, structure, function, ecology, and phylogeny of the major animalians. Special emphasis is placed on the observation of living animals.

BIOLOGY 248 - HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I LAB

Students examine the functional anatomy of cells and tissues; the organization of the body; homeostasis; the integument; the skeletal system, histology and development of bone; micro anatomy and physiology of muscle; origin, insertion and actions of muscles, articulations and body movement; functional organization and histology of the nervous system and sensory structure including the integument, nose, tongue, ear and eye; light microscopy; physiological recording of simple muscle contraction, electromyographs, and reflex arcs; bone surface features; and cat or sheep dissection of muscle, the brain, and the eye.

BIOLOGY 249 - HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II

Students examine the functional organization and histology of the endocrine system, reproduction in the male and female; hormonal control of reproduction; functional organization and histology of the digestive system (including digestion, absorption and utilization), gas exchange, urinary system, and circulatory system; physiological plethysmography, and electrocardiography; and, cat or sheep dissection of the heart and kidney.

BIOLOGY 251 - CELL BIOLOGY
The fundamental unit of life is the cell; therefore cell biology forms the base upon which all modern biology and medicine is built. This course will emphasize the study of eukaryotic cell structure and function, including bioenergetics, membrane transport, cellular communication, flow of genetic information, immune responses and cell division. Experimental techniques used in understanding cell biology will be discussed along with the cellular basis of diseases.

BIOLOGY 252 - HUMAN GENETICS
A presentation of the basic concepts of human genetics including discussion of fundamental genetic principles, impacts of recent advances, and ethical issues related to human genetics.

BIOLOGY 254 - EVOLUTION OF BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS
A study of the emergence and history of life on earth. Emphasis is put on the mechanisms that result in evolutionary change at the cellular, population, and ecosystem level. Areas covered include genetics, population ecology, speciation, and extinction.

BIOLOGY 256 - TECHNIQUES IN MICROSCOPY
The microscope and microscopy (techniques) are central to the development and practice of modern biology. This course provides an historical outline of microscopy and a review of its modern techniques.

BIOLOGY 258 - TECNIQUES IN TISSUE CULTURE
A presentation of current methods in plant tissue culture. Discussion and research experiments to develop understanding and expertise in such areas as sterile technique, plant propagation, nutritional effects, isolation and fusion of protoplasts, and other current plant tissue culture techniques.

BIOLOGY 299, 498 HONORS THESIS AND BIOLOGY 499 SENIOR RESEARCH
CORSE DESCRIPTION: Under the direction of a faculty member, each student participates in a laboratory, field, or literature research project for two semesters. Students are expected to commit to at least nine hours of research per week during the semester. Students are required to present their findings orally and in written form.

BIOLOGY 311- HISTOLOGY
The microanatomy of mammalian tissues and organs at both the light and electron microscope level are surveyed. Histology by its nature is highly visual, therefore, lecture and laboratory work will be integrated into a unified format. Students are introduced to the basics of microscopy and microtechnique, and are responsible for tissue and organ recognition and critical interpretation. Students are given a comprehensive set of prepared slides for detailed study.

BIOLOGY 314- PARASITOLOGY
A combined lecture-laboratory course. This course is a comprehensive investigation of protozoan, helminth, and arthropod parasites with special emphasis to those of medical and veterinary importance. The techniques of parasitology are covered, including egg sedimentation, life cycle studies, animal necropsy, and the use of taxonomic keys. Students are given a comprehensive set of prepared slides for detailed study.

BIOLOGY 321- COMPARARTIVE VERTEBRATE ANATOMY
A course investigating the comparative morphology of chordates. Topics include: protochordate and vertebrate origin, diversity, embryology, and vertebrate organ systems. The phylogeny and ontogeny of vertebrates will be of major importance.

BIOLOGY 322 AND 342 HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY AND LABORATORY
Study of the structure and function of the major tissues, organs, and organ systems of the human body.

BIOLOGY 323 AND 343 VERTEBRATE PHYSIOLOGY AND LAB
A comprehensive study of the principal processes involved in vertebrate cells, tissues, and organ systems, including circulation, respiration, excretion, acid-base and fluid balances, digestion, reproduction, and muscle-nerve coordination and integration. Anatomy is studied as necessary to understand the functions of the different systems.

BIOLOGY 326- PRINCIPLES OF ECOLOGY
A study of the interactions between plants and animals and their environments. The effects of environmental factors on living systems are considered at the individual, population, and community levels.

BIOLOGY 334- MICROBIOLOGY
This upper-level course will introduce students to the basic biology of prokaryotic organisms and viruses. Upon successful completion of the semester, students should be knowledgeable about bacterial cell structure, microbial diversity, microbial growth and energy acquisition, and applications of microbiology.

BIOLOGY 344- MICROBIOLOGY LABORATORY
This course will introduce laboratory techniques used for studying prokaryotic organisms. Upon successful completion of the lab, students should be proficient in basic: safety, sterile technique, bright-light microscopy, staining, biochemical analysis, culturing of bacteria, and identification techniques used in microbiology labs.

BIOLOGY 345 - COMPARATIVE VERTEBRATE ANATOMY LABORATORY
LABORATORY DISSECTIONS OF VERTEBRATE SYSTEM
A vertebrate dissection course. A comparative systems approach is used in the detailed dissection of the lamprey, dogfish shark, mudpuppy, and cat. The course also includes the microscopic and gross examination of hemichordates and protochordates.

BIOLOGY 346 - PRINCIPLES OF ECOLOGY LAB
Laboratory studies of ecosystems to supplement lecture material presented in BIO-346 and illustrate some techniques involved in current ecological studies. Laboratory exercises will combine studies of plant, animal, and environmental interactions with experimental manipulations of selected ecosystems.

BIOLOGY 356 - TECHNIQUES IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
This course will cover the basic techniques used in molecular biology and biotechnology.  The course has both lecture and laboratory components in which fundamental concepts and techniques will be presented and then practiced.  The laboratory skills introduced in this class would be useful for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or employment in research laboartories, and those interested in environmental or health issues.

BIOLOGY 358 - AQUATIC FIELD STUDIES
This course provides experience in the techniques required for research in aquatic environments. Aspects of organism identification, habitat classification, water chemistry, and sampling technique will be included.

BIOLOGY 359 - TERRESTRIAL FIELD STUDIES
This course provides experience in the techniques required for research in the terrestrial environment. Aspects of organism identification, community classification, soil study, and sampling techniques will be included.

BIOLOGY 399 - BIOLOGY SEMINAR

An upper level seminar course that focuses on one of the major modern biological themes.

BIOLOGY 421 - SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY

The course is a comprehensive introduction to the theory and use of the techniques of scanning electron microscopy.  The course is for students from a variety of disciplines, including but not limited to biology, chemistry, art, and human environmental science.  Topics include history of SEM, electron optics (gun, lenses, probes, current), electron beam interactions (scattering and volume), image processing and optimization, critical point drying, and sputter coating.  Designed as an instrumentation course it is necessary that students gain hands on knowledge of the SEM by completing a project.  Each student will perpare a poster of her project results for presentation on the Day Celebrating Student Achievement.

BIOLOGY 431 - GENETICS
A course designed to provide an understanding of the principles of classical, population, and molecular genetics and the relationship of these principles to human heredity, agriculture, evolution, and selected environmental problems.

BIOLOGY 436 - BIOCHEMISTRY
A study of chemistry of biological systems including metabolic interrelationships, reaction rates, control mechanisms, and integration of these reactions within the structural framework of the cell.

BIOLOGY 438 - ADVANCED BIOCHEMISTRY (Beginning SPRING 2010)

The second part of a two-part course in Biochemistry, this advanced course is designed to prepare students for graduate study and careers in the fields of Biochemistry & Molecualr Biology.  The course will present topics in modern Biochemistry including bio-molecular structure, enzyme catalysis, bioenergetics, biosynthesis of bio-molecules, and culminate with a discussion of special topics such as cellular signal transduction.

BIOLOGY 446 - BIOCHEMISTRY LAB

A collection of laboratory exercises designed to provide practical exposure to some of the general principles and methodology of biochemistry. Techniques include photometry, polarimetry, electrophoresis, centrifugation, and various chromatographic technique.

BIOLOGY 448 - ADVANCED BIOCHEMISTRY LAB (Beginning SPRING 2010)

The second of a two-part laboratory course in Biochemistry, this advanced course is designed to prepare students for graduate study and careers in the fields of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.  A collection of laboratory exercises designed to provide practical exposure to techniques in advanced enzyme kinetics and inhibition, structural biochemistry using mass spectrometry and NMR, and techniques in protein expression, purification and analysis, as well as molecualr modeling techniques.

BIOLOGY 461 - GENETICS LAB
Collection of laboratory exercises designed to provide practical exposure to some of the general principles considered in Genetics. Laboratory work will be based upon a number of organisms including bacteria, fungi, higher plants, fruit flies, and man.

BIOLOGY 940 - WOMEN IN SCIENCE
This course will address the historical aspect of women in science as well as current philosophical feminist approaches to science. The changing roles of women in science as influenced by women's place in society will be examined and discussed. Current theories of feminist science will be studied and analyzed. The epistemology of feminist theory as applied to scientific theory will be explored.

BIOLOGY 941 - AFRICAN ENVIRONMENT
Students will study African environments as they have occurred in the past, as they are today, and as they may be in the future. Examples of ways that students will engage in the study include, but are not limited to the following: writing about readings of their own choosing; reports on assigned readings; video reports; reports on local African exhibitions, lectures, or other activities; projects that illustrate topics visually; reports on visiting lectures. All major areas of Africa will be included in the material to be discussed. The class will be carried on as a discussion of the topics where everyone contributes what she has learned. The role on the professor during the class is to guide the discussions.

BIOLOGY 943 - AROUND THE WORLD WITH DARWIN
Charles Darwin's presence on the voyage of the HMS Beagle made this possibly the most famous scientific voyage of the 19th Century. Lasting nearly five years (1831-1836), it was a voyage of discovery for the young man who was to become a famous scientist. It can also be a voyage of discovery for students of the 21st Century. We will read Darwin's diary of the voyage and compare what he saw with the way these places look today. The instructor has traveled and photographed nearly all the places that Darwin visited and will emphasize changes in these ecosystems since Darwin saw them.

BIOLOGY 946 - SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPE
The course is a comprehensive introduction to the theory and use of scanning electron microscope and its techniques for students from a variety of disciplines, including but not limited to biology, chemistry, art, and human environmental science. Theory and application will be taught together. Topics covered will include history of SEM, electron optics (gun, lenses, probes, current), electron beam interactions (scattering and volume), image processing and optimization, critical point drying, and sputter coating. The course is primarily an instrumentation course and students will gain a hands-on knowledge of the SEM scope and support equipment. A successful student project is required.

BIOLOGY 947 - ANATOMY FORM AND CULTURE
This is a linked course with ART 944: The Figure in Art. Students must be cross enrolled in both courses. In this course students will explore five main themes: scientific depiction and representation of living forms: human, other mammals, and vascular plants; biology of human skeletal-muscular systems and surface features; the two and three dimensional expression of human anatomy; the relationship of functional morphology to culture and art; and the role of the anatomical sciences in society. The expression of he human form, whether it be portraiture or figurative, is at the center of our experience and describes how we see the world and how we see our selves in it. Throughout human history, the depiction of the human figure has had measurable impacts on society and culture; and society's current perception of the normal, desirable, and/or perfect form impacts our lives through how we as individuals and a society determine and view our diet, nutrition, conditioning, role models, visual and performing arts, stereotypes, gender roles, and in many case, our friends and our enemies.

Understanding the functional anatomy of the various systems that create our morphology, such as the skeletal system, integumentary system, and the muscular system are not only important in the portrayal of human form but are required to understand and potentially remedy modern human stresses such as the impacts of space travel, extreme sports, performance arts, and increased longevity.

CORE 946 - ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IN RIVERS
An introduction to environments and biology of rivers, followed by comparative case studies of the geography, natural history, and human exploitation, pollution, management, and efforts to conserve and restore rivers. Reports and presentations are required on environmental conditions and issues in rivers selected from among the world's largest and most important ones. Comparative examples from North Carolina's rivers will be introduced in class and on an optional field trip.

CORE 947 - SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
The focus of this course will be on interdisciplinary sub-Saharan issues in bioscience with the unifying theme being on two of the universal problems of humankind: Disease and Nutritional Health. The course will include four crucial topics for education and research: 1). HIV/AIDS, 2) The Great Neglected Diseases, 3) Nutrition, and 4) Competition with Wildlife. Each topic is connected in thematic content around the two issues of Disease and Nutritional Health.

SCI 764 - THE TEACHING OF SCIENCE
This course is designed to prepare both Science (6-9) and Biology/Chemistry (9-12) licensure students for the effective teaching of science. While acknowledging the developmental differences in students in the middle grades and those in the secondary schools, the purpose of this course is to demonstrate that the teaching of science embodies a repertoire of skills that can be learned, and that these skills can be used effectively at both the middle school and the secondary school level. These skills can enable science teachers to help students achieve three basic goals: 1) to understand the processes of scientific thinking, or inquiry, 2) to learn facts that are needed in understanding the concepts , generalizations and unifying themes of science, and 3) to form values and attitudes consistent with scientific inquiry that can be applied not only to the solution of the problems of science, but to questions that humans ask about themselves, their condition, and their environment.

Upon completion of this course, the prospective teacher is expected to understand that the teaching of science is a reflective process that involves applying and adapting educational theories and teaching strategies in the constantly changing environment of the classroom; that the public school classroom is a mosaic composed of individuals with different cultural, developmental, attitudinal, and motivational backgrounds; that science cannot be taught in isolation from other academic areas or from individual, technological, or societal issues that confront or will confront her students; that the teacher must be forever a student, seeking ways to improve her professional skills and to increase and update her scientific knowledge; and that she must serve as a good role model for her students as a good citizen, an effective leader, and as both a helpful guide and curious learner in all areas of the pursuit of knowledge.


SEMINAR: ENVIRONMENTS OF CHINA
All classes in this course will be taught in seminar format. The concept of "seminar" implies that all participants share the responsibility for teaching and learning. Students in this course will learn about natural Chinese environments by giving attention to the geographical and physiological features of the country. The instructor accepts the main responsibility for selection of topics and for guiding the work of the other participants.

The success of the semester will be gauged by the progress that each person makes toward a better understanding of the subject considered throughout our semester of work. The instructor has chosen to require individual students to emphasize particular regions of the country since it is difficult for us all to study every region in depth, given constraints of resources and time. Each person is expected to encourage others to learn about her focus region by being well prepared for each meeting. A number of references will be made available for student use; however, finding additional sources will be a part of the student's responsibility.