This course introduces students to the principles and practical applications of bioinformatics in the analysis of genomic data. Students learn how to use bioinformatics software to evaluate and analyze genomic data to answer questions in molecular and evolutionary genetics.
Marine Invertebrate Zoology takes advantage of the rich marine biota of the Salish Sea to introduce students to the principles of animal organization and biodiversity. Emphasis is placed on homology and convergence, diversity and complexity, and is presented in a phylogenetic and ecological context through the study of form and function of living and preserved specimens. In addition to the basics of invertebrate anatomy, development, ecology and evolution, this course includes analysis of evolutionary changes and discussion of the fossil record.
This course explores the principles of physics applied to living systems. Topics include diffusion, hydrodynamics and the low Reynolds-number world, importance of entropy and free energy, entropic forces, molecular machines, membranes, and nerve impulses. Written and oral scientific communication is emphasized. This course is appropriate for junior or senior undergraduates in the sciences, particularly physics and biology. No specialized knowledge of biology or physics is expected, but a facility with algebraic manipulations and a working knowledge of calculus is needed.
Evolution is fundamental to understanding the big why and how questions in biology. Beginning with the fundamentals of population genetics, this course explores a diverse array of topics such as speciation, mass extinctions, adaptive radiation, molecular evolution, systematics, disease, and conservation biology.
This course offers a study of the evolutionary history and functions of hormones across the tree of life with particular focus on animals and a secondary focus on plants. Hormones as mediators of growth, development, phenotype, behavior, reproduction, and epigenetic effects are covered and connected to relevant current events. The required laboratory introduces and applies a variety of relevant research techniques in a directed context to produce an original research result at the end of the course (which may lead to a published paper on which students are coauthors).
Microbiology is the biology of two of the three Domains of life (the bacteria, the archaea, and the viruses of both) as opposed to eukaryotic organisms. This course explores three aspects of microbiology - diversity, ecology, and interactions with other organisms (including pathogen/host relationships in medical microbiology and more mutualistic associations such as symbioses). A term paper exploring the natural history of a particular microbe or related topic is required for this course.
This course examines the production, transmission and reception of animal communication signals in different sensory modalities, including acoustic, visual, chemical, and short-range sensory modes. In addition, the course explores the evolution and function of such signals as mechanisms to transfer information and bias decision making. Throughout the semester, students draw upon theory from ecology, physiology and evolution, as well as the physical sciences and economics.
A study of function at the systems and cellular levels in a variety of animal forms with emphasis on fundamental physiological principles. Physiological adaptation to different habitats is also discussed. Laboratory involves application of various experimental techniques. Lab is required. Some labs require the dissection of earthworms, the use of crab blood, and may require the use of live tissue preparations.
A study of growth, nutrition, and metabolism of the higher plants at the organismal, cellular, and molecular levels. Laboratory demonstrates data collection methodology, data analysis, and experimental design in plant physiology.
In this course, students will gain experience and reasoning skills in the biological sciences by focusing on a specific topic, theme, or sub-area of the discipline. Through classroom discussion, written work, and other forms of assessment, students will evaluate information and learn how the scientific process is applied in the context of the theme covered. Students will also make connections between the biological topic of study and society.