Undergraduate Concentration
The undergraduate program in
biology, leading either to the B.A. or to the B.S. degree, is
designed to give students an understanding of both fundamental
and current biological knowledge in a variety of fields. The program
offers a wide array of courses to undergraduates, ranging from
introductory courses to advanced, specialized graduate level courses
in many of these areas. The biology department has more than 25
full-time faculty members with teaching and research interests
in the fields of genetics, molecular biology, development, immunology,
neurobiology, motility, cell biology, and structural biology.
Since the interests and needs
of our students vary, the concentration is designed to provide
flexibility once the core courses have been completed. Students
may elect undergraduate level courses in a variety of areas of
biology and biochemistry, or may choose to obtain more advanced,
in-depth training in one particular area. Students are also encouraged
to take advantage of opportunities to become integral members
of research laboratories in the department and to attend departmental
colloquia.
A concentration in biology
provides excellent preparation for students intent on careers
in biological research who want to go to graduate school, for
those seeking careers in medicine, veterinary medicine, and dentistry,
and for those interested in the allied health professions such
as genetic counseling, physical therapy, physician assistant,
and so forth.
Graduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology
The graduate program in molecular
and cell biology, leading to the degree of doctor of philosophy,
is designed to provide each student with the theoretical foundations
and research experience needed to become an independent and original
investigator of basic biological phenomena. Preparation is achieved
through the combination of (1) a flexible curriculum of courses
tailored for each student's specific needs, (2) a set of laboratory
rotations that acquaints each entering student with current research
techniques and permits exploration of possible research areas,
and (3) a proseminar specifically for first-year students and
a series of journal clubs that keep students abreast of significant
research findings and develop confidence with reading research
literature and giving oral presentations. First-year students
participate in all three aspects of our graduate program and are
thus quickly integrated into the biological research community
at Brandeis. A strength of our program is frequent interactions
between students and faculty, both formal and informal.
Thesis research leading to the Ph.D. degree is carried out under the personal direction of a faculty member. A complete list of faculty research interests and recent publications is available from the biology department or can be viewed on the World Wide Web at www.bio.brandeis.edu. Potential applicants are urged to obtain this information. As a general orientation, the following areas of research are among those represented in the program: molecular biology of the regulation of gene expression, especially during development; chromosome structure and chromosomal rearrangements; mechanisms of recombination; developmental genetics; behavior genetics and neural development; biophysics of single nerve cells; learning and memory; integration of neural function; immunogenetics; immune cell differentiation and development; molecular biology of the immune system; regulation of muscle contraction; molecular and cell architecture; organization of subcellular structures; structure and function of proteins.
Students wishing to concentrate
in biology should enroll in General Chemistry during their first
year. During their sophomore year, students should enroll in Organic
Chemistry, Cell Structure and Function, and Genetics. While other
course schedules are possible, the ones described above allows
students ample time to complete the remaining requirements (biochemistry,
calculus, physics, and three or five biology electives) for the
biology degree during the junior and senior years and leaves students
the option of enrolling in Senior Research during the senior year.
To learn more about the biology concentration, students should attend the "Meet the Majors" meeting held each fall or consult with the undergraduate advising head.
The general requirements for
admission to the Graduate School, given in an earlier section
of this Bulletin, apply to candidates for admission to
this area of study. The student's undergraduate record should
ordinarily include courses equivalent to those required of undergraduates
concentrating in biology at this institution. Students who are
deficient in some of these subjects, but whose records are otherwise
superior, may make up their deficiencies while they are enrolled
as graduate students. In exceptional cases, students may be excused
from some of these requirements. Students with serious deficiencies
must, however, expect to add additional time to their graduate
program in order to satisfy the deficiencies.
Applicants must take the Graduate
Record Examination.
Since the summer months provide an important opportunity for uninterrupted laboratory work, the molecular and cell biology program provides 12-month stipend support for all full-time students.
James Haber (Rosenstiel Center), Chair
Genetics and molecular biology
of yeast meiotic and mitotic recombination. Mating-type switching.
Repair of broken chromosomes; structure, function, and regulation
of plasma membrane ATPase.
Kalpana White, (Center for Complex Systems) Cochair
Developmental neurogenetics.
Laurence Abbott (Center for Complex Systems)
Modeling of neural networks.
Susan Birren (Center for Complex Systems)
Developmental neurobiology.
Carolyn Cohen (Rosenstiel Center)
Structural molecular biology.
Laura Davis (Rosenstiel Center)
Cell biology and genetics of
yeast. Structure and function of nuclear pores.
David DeRosier (Rosenstiel Center)
Structural studies of actin,
actin-containing cytoskeletal assemblies, and bacterial flagella.
Chandler Fulton
Cell differentiation and selective
gene expression in eucaryotic cells. Morphogenesis of cell shape
and assembly of cell organelles, especially flagella.
Leslie Griffith (Center for Complex Systems)
Biochemistry of synaptic plasticity.
Jeffrey Hall (Center for Complex Systems)
Neurogenetics and molecular
neurobiology of higher behaviors in Drosophila.
Kenneth Hayes (Director, Foster Animal Lab)
Comparative nutritional pathophysiology
in man and animals. Lipoprotein metabolism and atherogenesis,
cholelithiasis.
Annette Lovelace Kennedy
Clinical psychology. Genetic
counseling.
Kathryn Spitzer Kim
Genetic counseling.
Attila Klein
Plant physiology. Environmental
studies.
Barbara Lerner
Genetic counseling.
John Lisman (Center for Complex Systems)
Mechanisms of phototransduction.
Molecular mechanism of memory storage.
Susan Lovett (Rosenstiel Center)
Genetics and molecular biology
of bacteria and yeast. Genetic and biochemical analysis of recombination.
Eve Marder (Center for Complex Systems)
Neurotransmitter modulation
of neural circuits.
Marvin Natowicz
Clinical genetics.
Sacha Nelson (Center for Complex Systems)
Synaptic integration in the
visual cortex.
Joan Press, Seniors Honors Coordinator (Rosenstiel Center)
Developmental immunology and
immunogenetics.
Ruibao Ren (Rosenstiel Center)
Signal transduction.
Michael Rosbash (Center for Complex Systems)
RNA processing and molecular
neurobiology.
Joan Rutila
Molecular neurobiology.
Ranjan Sen (Rosenstiel Center)
Molecular immunology. Transcription
factors.
Piali Sengupta (Center for Complex Systems)
Developmental neurobiology.
Neil Simister (Rosenstiel Center)
Molecular immunology. Antibody
transport.
Judith Tsipis, Undergraduate Advising Head
Genetic counseling.
Gina Turrigiano (Center for Complex Systems)
Activity-dependent regulation
of neuronal properties.
Lawrence Wangh
Molecular controls of DNA replication in Xenopus egg.
A.
Required of all candidates: BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b; BIOL 18a,b lab;
CHEM 10a,b or CHEM 11a,b or CHEM 15a,b; CHEM 18a,b or CHEM 19a,b
lab; CHEM 25a,b; CHEM 29a,b lab; MATH 10a,b or MATH 11a,b; PHYS
10a,b or PHYS 11a,b; PHYS 18a,b or PHYS 19a,b lab; BCHM 100a;
and Option I or II below.
Option I: The B.A. Degree in Biology
The standard biology option
that provides students with a general background in biology. In
addition to the courses required of all candidates (listed above),
students must take three elective courses chosen from any offering
of the biology and biochemistry departments above the 22-level
(excluding courses numbered 90-99). The following may also serve
as electives: ANTH 116a, CHEM 41a, CHEM 41b, NBIO 136b, 140b,
142b, 143b, 144b, 145b, 147a, and NBCH 148b.
Option II: The B.S. Degree in Biology
The intensive biology option
that provides students with a strong background in several areas
of biology. In addition to the courses required of all candidates
(listed above), students must take five elective courses chosen
from any offering of the biology and biochemistry departments
above the 22-level (excluding courses numbered 90-99). ANTH 116a,
CHEM 41a, 41b, NBIO 136b, 140b, 142b, 143b, 144b, 145b, 147a,
and NBCH 148b may also serve as electives.
No course offered for concentration
requirements may be taken on a pass/fail basis. Satisfactory grades
(C- or above) must be maintained in all biology and biochemistry
courses offered for concentration and in all elective courses
offered for concentration in biology. No more than one D will
be allowed in any course offered toward the requirements in this
department.
B. Senior Research
Any senior, regardless of grade
point average, may enroll in laboratory research (BIOL 99d and/or
99e). Students petition the department during the beginning of
their senior year for participation in Senior Research. Petitions
and information about Senior Research are available in the biology
department office. See BIOL 99d course description for details.
C. Senior Honors Program
Laboratory research is a major
component of the senior honors program. Enrollment in BIOL 99
(Senior Research) is obligatory; students must fulfill the BIOL
99 requirements (see B above). At the conclusion of their second
semester of BIOL 99 (Senior Research), candidates for senior honors
will give an oral defense of their senior honors thesis to a designated
faculty research committee. At the conclusion of their senior
year, candidates for senior honors must either have a 3.30 grade
point average in all courses offered for the biology concentration,
or have a 3.00 grade point average in courses offered for the
biology concentration and have achieved an average of B+ or better
in three biology electives. Petitions and information about the
senior honors program are available in the biology department
office.
D.
A student may graduate with a double concentration in biology
and any other major if the concentration requirements in both
departments are fully met.
Combined B.S./M.S. Program
Candidates for departmental honors may be admitted to a special four-year B.S./M.S. program upon recommendation of the department and approval by the Graduate School. Application must be made by May 1 preceding the senior year; applications should include a proposed course of study, specifying how all degree requirements will be met, a transcript, and a brief description of the proposed research project. To qualify for the B.S./M.S. degree in biology, students must complete a total of 38 courses; these courses must include those needed to satisfy requirements A, option II, and B, as indicated above plus three additional electives in biology or biochemistry or as listed under requirement A, option II, above. Of the eight electives required for the B.S./M.S. degree, at least six must be at the graduate level (and completed with a grade of B- or above) and they must include courses from at least three of the research areas of the biology department. Research areas include genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, structural biology, immunology, and neurobiology. In addition, a substantial research contribution is required and students must submit a research thesis to the biology department Graduate Committee for review. A thesis submitted for the master's degree may also be submitted to the biology department for departmental honors.
Premedical and Predental students:
BIOL 12a,b or BIOL 18a,b (labs); and either BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, or BIOL 14a,b will satisfy the general biology entrance requirements of most medical schools.
Program of Study
The program is designed to
guide each student toward realizing her or his potential as an
independent research biologist. Students are encouraged to become
experts in the theory and practice of their chosen area of research,
as well as to obtain breadth in other areas strongly represented
in the program. Research areas include genetics, molecular biology,
developmental biology, cell biology, structural biology, immunology,
and neurobiology. Graduate courses are available in all of these
areas. A total of six courses from at least three areas are required
for the degree. Each student will conduct an original investigation
and submit a research thesis to the biology department graduate
committee for review, or complete three 12-week research rotations.
Residence Requirement
The minimum residence requirement is one year.
Program of Study
Students are expected to obtain
a knowledge of the principles and techniques of three of the areas
represented in the program, i.e., genetics, developmental biology,
molecular biology, neurobiology, immunology, cell biology, and
structural biology. The background a student is expected to have
in these areas will be covered in courses given by the program.
Entering students also participate together in a proseminar, an
introduction to the research literature of biology. Students take
two courses each semester in the first year, with a total of six
required for the degree. In the first year, students will have
the opportunity to do research rotations in at least three different
laboratories. Throughout the graduate years, students remain involved
in seminar courses, journal clubs, presentations of research,
colloquia, and research courses.
Each student will choose his/her
specific field of interest and will apply for a permanent advisor
to be agreed upon by the program at the end of the first year.
The advisor will assist the student in planning a well-balanced
program in his/her specific field of interest. In addition, the
advisor will ordinarily serve as the chair of the student's dissertation
examining committee.
At least one year of teaching
experience (or equivalent) is required of all degree candidates.
Residence Requirement
The minimum residence requirement
is three years.
Language Requirement
There is no foreign language
requirement for the Ph.D. degree.
Qualifying Examination
The qualifying examination
consists of researching two propositions in which the student
identifies an important and interesting research problem and then
proposes the experiments to attack it. The propositions are written
and the student gives an oral defense. The first proposition,
which is taken in the middle of the second year, must be in an
area outside the studentís area of thesis research. The
second proposition constitutes a thesis proposal and is taken
in the third year.
Dissertation and Defense
Each student will conduct an original investigation. After submission of the dissertation, the candidate will be expected to present the principal results of his or her work and its significance during an examination in defense of the dissertation. The examining committee must include one faculty member from outside the university. A public seminar to the University community is also required.
For M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in the biological sciences, see listings for Molecular and Cell Biology, Neuroscience, and Genetic Counseling.
(1-99) Primarily for Undergraduate Students
BISC 1a Biology of Neurological and Mental Illness
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 60.
This course will discuss the basic features of the brain and nervous system needed to understand the current state of knowledge concerning neurological and mental illnesses. The etiology and biological bases for treatment for depression, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease will be discussed. Usually offered every third year. Will be offered in the spring of 1997.
Ms. Marder
BISC 2a Human Reproduction, Population Explosion, Global Consequences
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Preference given to juniors and seniors. Enrollment limited to 50.
Discusses the genetic, cellular, and hormonal bases of human reproduction, contraception, and AIDS, as well as the realities and consequences of overpopulation that now threaten humankind and our biosphere. Readings include Scientific American offprints and other substantial texts. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Wangh
BISC 3b Organisms and the Environment
[ sn ]
Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 60.
An exploration of basic biological functions such as nutrition, energy metabolism, reproduction, and locomotion in organisms. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1991.
Mr. Klein
BISC 4a Heredity
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Open to concentrators in science or to premedical students only with the consent of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 80.
An exploration of what genes are, how they are inherited, and how they work. We examine how genes direct the basic life processes occurring inside cells and how genes orchestrate the construction of complex organisms. We discuss why changes in certain genes cause inherited diseases, and how genetic mutations can lead to evolutionary change. Elements of the subtopics previewed above include presentations about ìgenetic engineeringî at the molecular level. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1995.
Mr. Hall
BISC 5a Viruses and Human Disease
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Prerequisite: High school chemistry. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 30.
An introduction to the study of viruses. Explains the fundamentals of biology to the extent that students can learn how viruses replicate, damage host cells, and cause disease. Mechanisms of viral gene expression and replication of DNA and RNA virus groups are discussed. Diseases such as polio, influenza, hepatitis, AIDS, and cancer are emphasized. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Kaplan
BISC 5b Biological Rhythms
[ sn ]
Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology.
Oscillating phenomena in biology will be presented and discussed. The rhythmic attributes include behavior, physiology, and biochemistry (involving recently discovered gene products). The organisms studied range from microbes to insects and other invertebrates; to mammals including humans. Topics include the many ways in which rhythms can be monitored, mechanisms of biological "pacemaking," and the relevance of these clocks to human health. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1996.
Mr. Hall
BISC 6a Recombinant DNA
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Open to concentrators in science or to premedical students only with consent of the instructor. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
This course for non-science majors explores the new revolution in genetics and its implications for our lives. We examine heredity, the structure of genetic material, DNA, and how chimeric DNAs are constructed and studied. Those fundamentals provide the basis for considering how the new gene technology is used for studying biological problems and for treating diseases, and also how the technology might be used to affect our heredity. Usually offered in odd years.
Staff
BISC 7a Biology of People
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Prerequisite: High school chemistry. Enrollment limited to 50. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology or biochemistry. Not open to premedical students or concentrators in biology or biochemistry.
This course examines the functions of cells in the body, principles of heredity, and the immune system. Among the specific topics are the mechanisms through which DNA controls the synthesis of proteins; the functions of various proteins; how characteristics are inherited; functions of the immune system and its abnormalities, including autoimmune diseases and AIDS. The chemical composition of DNA, RNA, and protein will be discussed. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Nisonoff
BISC 8b The Molecules of Life: Design and Function
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: High school biology or chemistry. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
The shape and functions of organisms rest on key biological molecules. Discussion of their design and properties provide background for the appreciation of evolutionary change, discoveries in molecular biology, and diseases caused by molecular defects (e.g., sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis). Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1994.
Ms. Cohen
BISC 9a Immunity and Disease
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Prerequisite: High school chemistry and biology. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 50.
After a basic review of cells and cell structures, the course introduces the immune system, including the cell types involved, genetics, structure and function of antibodies and T cell receptors, B vs. T cell immunity, and the concepts of vaccines. We also discuss specific diseases caused by viral and bacterial pathogens, including influenza and AIDS. Usually offered every third year.
Ms. Press
BISC 9b Physiology of the Human Body
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Open to concentrators in science or to premedical students only with the consent of the instructor. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology.
The human body can be viewed as a complex society of different cells organized into different organs which collaborate to maintain a constant environment necessary for the survival of the organism. Students review the function of different organs and how these are orchestrated by the hormonal and the nervous system. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1995.
Staff
BISC 10b Nutrition: Principles, Issues, and Applications
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Prerequisite: One year of chemistry in high school is recommended. Open to concentrators in science or to premedical students only with the consent of the instructor. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 60.
Presents the fundamentals of nutrition, provides an understanding of the nutritional aspects of several diseases, and introduces scientific research in the field of nutrition. Usually offered in even years.
Ms. Van Vunakis
BIOL 12a General Biology Lab I
Prerequisites: Must be taken concurrently with BIOL 14a. Does yield half-course credit, toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology, biochemistry, or neuroscience, but does satisfy the general biology entrance requirement of most medical schools.
This course provides firsthand experience with a wide array of organisms and illustrates basic approaches to problem solving in biology. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 12b General Biology Lab
Prerequisites: Must be taken concurrently with BIOL 14b. Does yield half-course credit, toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology, biochemistry, or neuroscience, but does satisfy the general biology entrance requirement of most medical schools.
See BIOL 12a for course description. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 14a General Biology I
[ sn ]
Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
An introduction to the biology of organisms and populations. Topics include evolution of life, biological diversity, and the physiology of plants and animals. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 14b General Biology II
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIOL 14a, an introductory biology course, or high school AP biology. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
An introduction to the principles of modern cellular and molecular biology. Also includes selected topics in genetics, biochemistry, and developmental biology. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 17b Ecology
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Prerequisites: Two years of high school science. Enrollment limited to 100. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
A broad exploration of natural environments and the adaptations of organisms found in them. Flow of energy and materials through food webs; populations and communities; predation and competition; impact of agriculture, industries, and other anthropogenic forces on ecosystems and on biodiversity. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 18a General Biology Laboratory
Prerequisites: Must be taken concurrently with BIBC 22a. Does yield half-course credit, toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Enrollment limited to 48 per section.
Provides firsthand experience with a wide array of organisms and illustrates basic approaches to problem solving in biology. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Tsipis
BIOL 18b General Biology Laboratory
[ wi ]
This course must be taken concurrently with BIOL 22b. Does yield half-course credit, toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Enrollment limited to 48 per section.
See BIOL 18a for course description. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Tsipis
BIBC 22a Genetics and Molecular Biology
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Prerequisites: CHEM 10a,b or 11a,b or 15a,b. BIOL 18a must be taken before or concurrently with this course.
An introduction to the current understanding of hereditary mechanisms and the cellular and molecular basis of gene transmission and expression. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Wensink (Sec. 1) and Ms.
Sengupta (Sec. 2)
BIOL 22b Cell Structure and Function
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Prerequisite: BIBC 22a. BIOL 18b must be taken concurrently with this course.
Basic architecture of cells, cellular organelles, and their molecular components. The dynamics of cell growth, nutrition, and metabolism. Specialized cell functions. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Birren (Sec. 1) and Staff
(Sec. 2)
BIOL 25a Molecular Motors
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: Biol 22b.
A discussion of movement in muscle and nonmuscle cells. Topics include muscle contraction, cell division, ciliary and flagellar motion, axonal transport, and protoplasmic streaming. The mechanism of movement will be analyzed in terms of the properties of structural and control proteins. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. DeRosier
BIOL 26a Plant Biology
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIOL 18b, BIBC 22a, and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 25.
We examine aspects of the physiology, metabolism, and growth of plants that adapt them to their special positions in terrestial and aquatic ecosystems. We also explore the molecular biology of photosynthesis, photomorphogenesis, and flowering. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1994.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 27a Aquatic Ecology
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 20. Students may not take both this course and BIOL 17b for credit. A library intensive course.
Analysis of biotic and abiotic factors that govern life in lakes and streams. Topics include hydrology, food webs, special aquatic habitats, conservation and restoration, and principles of monitoring the health of fresh waters. Field and laboratory work is included. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 28a Marine Biology
(Formerly ENVS 28a)
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of Professor Klein required. Offered under the auspices of the MBMSC and open to Brandeis students by petition.
Survey of the basic biology, behavior, and life history of marine biota. Review of physical habitats from polar to tropical waters. Focus is on the evolution of adaptive responses to the physical and biological factors in marine communities. Weekly laboratory consists of field trips to different habitats and examination of specimens from several marine phyla. Usually offered every fall.
Mr. Klein (Brandeis coordinator)
BIOL 30b Cetacean Biology and Conservation
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIOL 22b, BIOL 42a recommended. Signature of Professor Klein required. Offered under the auspices of the MBMSC and open to Brandeis students by petition.
Examines the biology and conservation of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Topics include physiology, morphology, population biology, life history, molecular genetics, distributional ecology, and social behavior. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Klein (Brandeis coordinator)
BIOL 31b Fish Biology
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of Professor Klein required. Offered under the auspices of the MBMSC and open to Brandeis students by petition.
Evolution, systematics, anatomy, physiology, and behavior of freshwater, marine, and anadromous fishes from temperate and tropical environments. Fish interactions in communities: predator/prey, host/symbiont relationships, and fish as herbivores. The ecology of fish populations. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Klein (Brandeis coordinator)
BIOL 37b Biology of Extreme Environments
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b; BCHM 100a recommended.
A study of molecular, metabolic, and physiological mechanisms of adaptations to extreme environments, such as hot springs, polar regions, and deserts. We examine the limits to which biological systems can be modified by nature and human manipulation. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 42a Human Physiology
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Prerequisites: BIOL 22b.
Basic physiological principles will be introduced with an overview of neural and hormonal control mechanisms. The topics will include physiology of cardiovascular and respiratory systems, electrolyte regulation, digestion and absorption, and the reproductive system. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Griffith and Ms. Turrigiano
BIOL 55b Diet and Health
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An elective for science majors with previous course work in nutrition, physiology, or biochemistry. Enrollment limited to 50.
Reviews the current evidence concerning the dietary impact on the chronic diseases of humans. Topics include genetics and nutrition, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer and will examine the involvement of specific nutrients, e.g., fat and cholesterol, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and alcohol in these disease processes. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1995.
Mr. Hayes
BIOL 60b Evolution
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Prerequisites: BIOL 18a and b, BIBC 22a, and BIOL 22b.
An introduction to evolution, with in-depth exploration of selected topics in evolutionary biology. These topics will range from molecular evolution as revealed by DNA sequencing to the origin and evolution of primates. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Fulton
BIOL 98a Readings in Biology
Prerequisite: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology. May not be taken for credit by students who have satisfactorily completed BIOL 98b.
Open to exceptionally well-qualified students to serve as an introduction into the research literature of biology. Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 98b Readings in Biology
Prerequisite: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology. May not be taken for credit by students who have satisfactorily completed BIOL 98a.
See BIOL 98a for course description. Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 99d Senior Research
Signatures of the instructor and the senior honors coordinator (Ms. Press) required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
A year-long, two-semester course involving the student in an independent research project conducted under the supervision of a staff member and serving as an intensive introduction to specific methods of biological research. Admission only with permission of the department and the staff member proposed as the research supervisor. In cases where students are able to do unusually long, intensive work in the laboratory, they may request a third course credit during the petition process; if this request is approved by the senior honors coordinator, students should register for BIOL 99d (fall) and BIOL 99e (spring) or, alternatively, for BIOL 99e (spring) followed by BIOL 99d (fall). The combined enrollments for Senior Research may not exceed three semester course credits. To fulfill the BIOL 99 requirements, students must (1) submit to their research sponsor, at the conclusion of their first BIOL 99 semester, a paper that reviews the literature pertinent to their field of research, and (2) submit to their research sponsor, at the conclusion of their second BIOL 99 semester, a senior thesis that includes an abstract, an introduction, a review of materials and methods, results, discussion, and references. Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 99e Senior Research
Signatures of the instructor and the senior honors coordinator (Ms. Press) required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
See BIOL 99d for course description. Usually offered every semester.
Staff
BIOL 102b Structural Molecular Biology
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b; or permission of the instructor.
An introduction to the structural basis of molecular biology. It will include background material on the designs of proteins and nucleic acids and their assembly, as well as the techniques used to visualize structure. A major theme will be the physical and chemical basis for specificity in molecular recognition. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Cohen
BIOL 103b Mechanisms of Cell Functions
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: BIOL 22b or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 50.
This course follows biological information (in nucleic acids, proteins, and second messengers) through a cell. Topics examined include the control of the cell cycle and the behavior of chromosomes, how information encoded in nucleic acid is translated into protein, how proteins are put in the appropriate places in cells or outside cells, and how external signals (hormones, cell-matrix interactions) influence the activities of enzymes and of genes. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Davis
BIOL 104a Structural Approaches to Cell Biology
[ sn ]
The purpose of this course is to rigorously develop the foundations of structural cell biology. The first part of this course reviews the mathematical methods and physical principles required to understand how the structure of macromolecules and macromolecular assemblies are determined. The second part of the course deals specifically with individual methods, including light microscopy, higher resolution electron microscopy of macromolecules, and protein crystallography. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1993.
Mr. DeRosier
BIBC 105b Molecular Biology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
Examination of molecular processes in replication and expression of genetic information and techniques by which this understanding has been achieved. Topics include recombinant DNA and other molecular biological techniques, structure and organization of DNA in chromosomes, DNA replication, transcription and regulation of gene expression, RNA structure and processing, mRNA stability, and other mechanisms of post-translational control. Usually offered every year.
Messrs. Sen and Haber
BIOL 111a Developmental Biology
(Formerly BIOL 61a)
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Prerequisites: BIOL 18a,b; BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b. This course may not be repeated for credit by students who have taken BIOL 61a in previous years.
How do complex organisms build themselves starting from single cells? We will examine how processes such as fertilization, embryogenesis, cell differentiation, and tissue-specific gene expression occur; what is known about the key molecules and genes that orchestrate these processes; and how genetic changes affecting these processes underlie the evolution of body form. Usually offered in even years.
Ms. White
BIOL 112b Interpretation of Genes
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Prerequisite: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
The discovery of sequence similarity between a gene of your interest to known genes often provides clues about its function. This course will cover the basic theories and practices of sequence analysis. Topics include basic algorithm and statistics, biological data bases, data base searches, sequence alignment, phylogenetic trees, genome project, etc. Usually offered in even years.
Messrs. Dixon and Ren
BIOL 122a Molecular Genetics
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b and BIBC 105b (or equivalents) or permission of the instructor.
A lecture and literature-based course concerning mechanisms that control genetic change and genetic stability. Lectures will introduce the topics of genetic mutation (including transposable genetic elements), genetic rearrangements, repair of genetic damage, and chromosome maintenance. Papers of current and historical interest will be discussed. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Haber
BIOL 125a Immunology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
Topics include properties, functions of cells involved in immunity; genes, structure, function of immunoglobins and T cell receptors; cell interactions; antigen recognition; lymphokines; tolerance; lymphocyte differentiation; genetic regulation; viral immunity; autoimmunity; allergy; AIDS; vaccines. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Press and Mr. Sen
BIOL 126b Protein Structure and Disease
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Prerequisite: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, or the equivalent, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 25.
Reviews the basic principles of protein structure, so that the functional aspects of different protein designs may be understood. We examine various protein mutations related to certain molecular diseases and the architecture of some key viruses and their infectivity. A consideration of drug design is an integral part of the course. Student presentations are essential to the course. Usually offered every third year. Will be offered in the spring of 1998.
Ms. Cohen
BIOL 128a Human Genetics
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 50.
Survey of classical and nonclassical patterns of inheritance; cytogenetics; applications of molecular genetics techniques in human genetics, analysis of variation, gene mapping, identification of candidate genes and genetic disease diagnoses; single gene vs. complex gene inheritance; issues in human population genetics; and hands on use of computer tools in human genetics. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Rutila
BIOL 132a General Microbiology
(Formerly BIOL 32a)
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, (BCHM concentrators may substitute BCHM 100a); CHEM 25a and 25b.
A survey of the physiology of bacteria and other microorganisms. We will concentrate on those aspects of cell structure and function that are important for diverse microbial lifestyles. In addition, we will pay special attention to the biology of disease-causing organisms and microbiological problems facing medicine today. Usually offered in odd years.
Ms. Lovett
BIOL 133b Marine Microbial Ecology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
Diversity and evolution of microbial life in the ocean. The fundamental importance of aquatic microbial assemblages in the biosphere. Aerobic, anaerobic, and extreme environments, global biogeochemical cycles, trophic structure of natural communities, energy flow in ecosystems, global warming, bioremediation.
Mr. Epstein
NBIO 136b Computational Neuroscience
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Prerequisites: MATH 10a and b, and either PHYS 10a and 10b, CHEM 11a and 11b, BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, or approved equivalents. Enrollment limited to 20.
An introduction to methods and results in mathematical and computer modeling of neural systems. Topics include the basic biophysics of ion conduction, single and multi-compartment neuron models, information theory and neural codes, the representation and processing of images by the visual system, and models of synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Usually offered every other year.
Mr. Abbott
NBIO 140b Introductory Neuroscience
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Prerequisite: BIBC 22b or permission of the instructor.
Basic principles of neurobiology. Topics include ion channels and their role in generating resting and action potentials; basics of synaptic physiology and pharmacology; locomotion, visual processing; learning, among others. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Marder
NBIO 142b Neuroethology: The Neural Basis of Animal Behavior
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b, and NBIO 140b or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 20.
Addresses the neural mechanisms underlying animal behavior. Topics include common animal behaviors, the genetics, evolution, and selection of these behaviors, and the neural mechanisms that allow animals to produce complex responses to the environment and to one another. Usually offered in even years.
Ms. Kilman
NBIO 143b Developmental Neurobiology
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Prerequisite: BIOL 111a (formerly BIOL 61a), or permission of the instructor. Signature of the instructor required.
Mechanisms used in the formation of the nervous system will be discussed. Topics include determination of the neuronal precursors, pattern formation in the nervous system, neuronal differentiation, and mechanisms responsible for neural specificity. Usually offered in even years.
Ms. White
NBIO 144b The Neurobiology of Memory
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Prerequisite: NBIO 140b. Signature of the instructor required.
Topics include definition of the types of memory, genetic and pharmacological perturbations of memory, and neural network approaches to memory. Principal focus on the cellular and molecular basis of memory. Anatomical, biochemical, and physiological work on long-term potentiation in the hippocampus will be extensively discussed. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Lisman
NBIO 145b Integrative Neuroscience
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Prerequisite: NBIO 140b.
How the nervous system processes information and generates behavior, with an emphasis on understanding how circuit dynamics result from the interaction of cellular and synaptic processes. Topics include generation of rhythmic behaviors, structure and function of the auditory, visual, and sematosensory systems processing, and learning and memory. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Nelson
NBIO 147a Neurogenetics
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Prerequisites: BIOL 18a, b, BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required.
Development and function of the nervous system and responses of excitable cells studied in neurological and behavioral mutants. Characterization and manipulation of genes, defined by these mutations and using molecular biological tools. Organisms: microbes, roundworms, fruit flies, mammals. Neurobiological areas: embryonic neural development, nerve cell differentiation and pattern formation, membrane excitability, responses to visual and chemical stimuli, biological rhythms, reproductive behavior. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1995.
Mr. Hall
NBCH 148b Advanced Topics in Neuroscience
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Prerequisite: NEUR 140b or permission of the instructor. May be taken concurrently with NEUR 140b.
Focuses on the ionic and molecular basis of action and synaptic potentials. Students examine the Hodgkin-Huxley experiments on axonal action potentials and the propagation of action potentials in the dendrites of CNS neurons. Students also examine ionotropic glutamate receptors; including their electrical and molecular properties, interaction with other proteins, and their involvement in synaptic plasticity. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Lisman
BIOL 149b Molecular Pharmacology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b, and CHEM 25a and b. NBIO 140b strongly recommended. Signature of the instructor required.
Covers the essentials of pharmacology and the study of the actions of chemical agents (drugs, toxins, neurotransmitters, and hormones) that interact with living systems. Emphasizes molecular mechanisms of neuropharmacology. Topics include pharmaco-kinetics, hormone action, autonomic pharmacology, and the psychopharmacology of drugs of abuse and mental disorders. Usually offered every third year.
Ms. Griffith
BIOL 160b Human Reproductive Biology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required.
This course deals with hormonal, cellular, and molecular aspects of gametogenesis, fertilization, pregnancy, and birth. We will also discuss pathological and abnormal variations that occur and the available medical technologies for intervention, correction, and facilitation of these processes. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Hayes
BIOL 172b Cancer
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Prerequisite: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 80.
Cancers are a collection of diseases that disturb the most fundamental rules of behavior of the cells in a multicellular organism. This course will cover the nature and cause of cancer, the molecular mechanism of oncogenesis, and the molecular biology of tumor viruses. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Ren
BIOL 175b Advanced Immunology
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Prerequisite: BIOL 125a or permission of the instructor.
A survey of recent advances in molecular immunology. Topics include the nature and specificity of the T cell receptor, mechanisms of T and B cell stimulation, genetic mechanisms in the generation of diversity of antibody molecules, and B and T cell development. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Sen
For biophysics consult biophysics offerings in this Bulletin.
BIOL 200a Proseminar
A library intensive course.
Usually offered every year.
Mr. Fulton
BIOL 220a Advanced Topics in Human Genetics
Prerequisites: Completion of BIOL 128a or permission of instructor.
A discussion of recent advances in human molecular and medical genetics. New diagnostic tests and methodologies are described when appropriate. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Tsipis
BIOL 221b Advanced Topics in Structural Biology
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, or the equivalent.
Analysis of current literature on cell structure. Usually offered ever year.
Mr. DeRosier
BIBC 224b The RNA World
Prerequisites: BCHM 100a, BIBC 105b, or permission of the instructor.
This course employs seminars and lectures to approach a wide range of topics in RNA research. Topics include RNA enzymes, RNA structure, protein-RNA interactions, pre-MRNA splicing, and RNA localization. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Moore and Mr. Rosbash
BIOL 300a and b Biological Research
Primarily for the first-year student with the purpose of introducing him or her to biological research and to the work in progress in the laboratories of a number of faculty members. In consultation with the graduate advisor, the student plans a sequence of such tenures, each comprising 12 weeks or more, and then carries out experimental investigations under the guidance of the faculty members involved. Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 305d Topics in Molecular Genetics and Development
Usually offered every year.
Mr. Ren
NBIO 306d Topics in Neurobiology
Usually offered every year.
Ms. Birren
BIOL 307d Topics in Immunology
Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 309d Motility Journal Club
Usually offered every year.
Mr. Huxley
BIOL 310d Structural Biology Journal Club
Usually offered every year.
Mr. DeRosier
BIOL 316d Mechanisms of Recombination
Usually offered every year.
Ms. Haber and Ms. Lovett
BIOL 320d Current Topics in Drosophila Molecular Genetics
Usually offered every year.
Ms. White
NBIO 340d Computational and Systems Neurosciences
Usually offered every year.
Mr. Abbott
BIOL 350d Graduate Student Research Seminar
Usually offered every year.
Mr. Sen
BIOL 404d Developmental Neurobiology
Ms. White
BIOL 405d Cell Differentiation and Morphogenesis
Mr. Fulton
BIOL 406d Neurophysiology
Ms. Marder
BIOL 407d Structural Biochemistry
Ms. Cohen
BIOL 408d Behavioral Genetics
Mr. Hall
BIOL 409d Biophysics of Visual Transduction
Mr. Lisman
BIOL 410d Plant Development
Mr. Klein
BIOL 411d Gene Control
Mr. Wangh
BIOL 412d Structural Molecular Biology
Mr. DeRosier
BIOL 413d General Physiology
Mr. Szent-Györgyi
BIOL 414d Gene Organization Eukaryotes
Mr. Rosbash
BIOL 415d Genetics and Molecular Biology of Yeast
Mr. Haber
BIOL 416d Immunology
Mr. Simister
BIOL 417d Muscle Physiology
Mr. Huxley
BIOL 418d Developmental Immunology
Ms. Press
BIOL 420d Nutritional Pathophysiology
Mr. Hayes
BIOL 421d Molecular Immunology
Mr. Sen
BIOL 422d Synaptic Plasticity
Ms. Griffith
BIOL 423d Mechanisms of Recombination
Ms. Lovett
BIOL 424d Developmental Neurobiology
Ms. Birren
BIOL 425d Modeling of Neural Networks
Mr. Abbott
BIOL 426d Synaptic Integration
Mr. Nelson
BIOL 427d Regulation of Neuronal Properties
Ms. Turrigiano
BIOL 428d Signal Transduction
Mr. Ren
BIOL 429d Developmental Neurobiology
Ms. Sengupta
BIOL 430d Cell Biology of Yeast
Ms. Davis
Required of all first-year graduate students in health-related science programs. Not for credit.
Scientists are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of addressing ethical issues and values associated with scientific research. This course, taught by University faculty from several graduate disciplines, will cover major ethical issues germane to the broader scientific enterprise, including areas or applications from a number of fields of study. Lectures and relevant case studies will be complemented by two public lectures during the course. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Jones
ANTH 116a
Human Osteology