Electives
Beyond the core curriculum, students are expected to explore areas of further inquiry by taking at least two elective courses. Possible topics and related courses are listed in the following sections. Other courses can be taken as electives with approval of the program adviser.
The use of physical techniques, including X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance, to elucidate the structure of bio-molecules.
Elective courses:
- BIOL 102b
- BCHM 171b*
- BIOL126b
- BCHM 104b*
The study of biological processes on the single molecule scale, such as enzyme function, ion transport through membranes, protein folding and molecular motors.
Elective courses:
- BIOL 25a
- BCHM 101a*
The development and analysis of mathematical models for elucidating biological structure and function.
Elective courses:
- BIOL 135b
- CHEM 144a
- PHYS 105a
- NBIO 136b
- QBIO 110a
The study of topics including bioinformatics, neural networks and networks of genes and proteins.
Elective courses:
- BCHM 170b*
- COSI 178a
- NBIO 140b
*Required prerequisites for this course are not included in the core curriculum.
BIOL 135b (The Principles of Biological Modeling), Paul Miller. With examples from neuroscience, cell biology, ecology, evolution, and physiology, dynamical concepts of significance throughout the biological world are discussed. Simple computational and mathematical models are used to demonstrate important roles of the exponential function, feedback, stability, oscillations, and randomness. Usually offered every second year.
NBIO 136b (Computational Neuroscience), Paul Miller. An introduction to concepts and methods in computer modeling of neural systems. Topics include single and multicompartmental models of neurons, information representation and processing by populations of neurons, synaptic plasticity and models of learning, working memory, decision making and neuroeconomics. Usually offered every second year.
Check out new courses that are being offered in applied math, relevant courses can be taken as electives upon approval by UAH.