100. Biology for Nonscientists. Not open to those with Advanced Placement or "Departmental" credit in biology, nor to those concentrating in the biological sciences. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (4). (NS). (BS).
Biology 100 is a one-term course designed to introduce students
to current biological concepts. The course consists of three hours
of lecture per week plus a coordinated discussion session which
occupies two hours per week. Biology 100 provides an introduction
to some general principles of biology and concentrates on the
areas of cell biology, genetics, evolution, and environmental
biology. A major objective of this course is to point out to students the nature of the scientific process and illustrate the uses and non-uses of science in contemporary life. Wherever possible, the
ethical and social implications of contemporary scientific effort
will be discussed. This course is designed for students with a
minimal background in the biological sciences but we do assume
some exposure to biology at the high school level. Discussion
sections enroll 20 students and are taught by graduate student
instructors. In the discussion section, students have the opportunity
to review material presented in lecture and participate in discussions
of issues raised in the lecture segment. Cost:3
WL:1; you MUST
attend the first discussion section to claim your place in the
course. (Goldberg, Osgood)
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101. Biology and Human Affairs. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (4). (NS). (BS).
This course is an introduction to those aspects of biology that have direct applicability to the lives of people in today's
world. It covers current controversies within biology, especially
as they relate to human life and human affairs. Topics discussed
include race, health, and the environment. Background information
is given for each topic, but the emphasis is placed on the controversies
and the role of science in human affairs. In addition to the two
lectures per week, there is a two-hour discussion period in which the topics are further explored and films are frequently shown.
Cost:3 WL:1
(Vandermeer, Wilson)
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107. Evolution of Life. (4). (NS). (BS).
This course is intended for students not concentrating in the
sciences and will provide an introduction to the concepts and processes of biological evolution. We will consider (1) the history
of evolutionary thought, (2) the evidence for evolution, (3) comparative
methods for inferring evolutionary history, (4) an overview of the evolution of cells, organisms, and viruses, (5) evolutionary themes such as natural selection, chance, and cooperation, and (6) the consequences of an evolutionary world view for understanding
disease, the value of biological diversity, and aspects of human
culture. The course consists of two one and one half hour lectures
per week plus a coordinated discussion section which occupies
one hour per week. The course is designed for students with minimal
background in the biological sciences; however, some exposure
to biology at the high school level is assumed. Discussion sections
enroll 20 students and are taught by graduate student instructors.
Grades will be based on three exams, including a cumulative final, and writing assignments. (Mindell)
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110/AOSS 171/UC 110/NR&E 110. Introduction to Global Change I. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (4). (NS). (BS).
http://www.globalchange.umich.edu/index.html.
An interdisciplinary (team-taught) introduction to the evolution
of life and the human species on Earth, with focus on problems
of global change produced by recent human advances in technology
and institutions. The discussion includes reference to: evolution
of the universe, the Earth and its environments; evolution of
living organisms; growth and reproduction; interactions of organisms
with their environments; ecological roles of organisms. Extensive
use is made of multi-media presentation tools: videos, slides, etc. Course grade will be based on a midterm exam and a final exam, plus successful completion of the required weekly
laboratory exercises, leading to a term paper presentation. There
are no prerequisites for this course and no science background
is assumed. The course is appropriate for all undergraduate students, irrespective of intended concentration. Topics include: Evolution
of the universe, solar system; evolution of the planets and moons;
evolution of life: fossils, geologic strata, impact of life processes
on earth systems; evolution of complex life forms, eukaryotes; the cell, respiration and photosynthesis; Atmospheres: paleoclimates
and paleoclimate records climate models; Oceans: evolution, circulation, nutrients, sea level changes; Land: lithosphere, volcanism, plate
tectonics, soils weathering; How green plants work: energy pathways, growth, development, reproduction; How animals work: function
and anatomy, growth, development and reproduction; Biogeochemical
cycles: water, carbon, nutrient cycles; Ecosystem dynamics: energy
flows, examples of ecosystems; Biosphere interactions: ozone and greenhouse warming, acid rain, the Gaia Hypothesis. (Killeen, Allan, Teeri)
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130. Animal Behavior. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (3). (NS). (BS).
The course is an introduction to the behavior of animals in their natural environment. Social behavior of birds, mammals, and insects is emphasized. Topics include: the environment as
animals perceive it, natural selection and adaptations, development
of behavior, communication, sexual cooperation and mate choice, social behavior of animals in groups, the importance of family
relationships, and the evolution of traditions. The course objectives
are to gain a background in the natural behavior of animals and to explain the evolution of behavior. By the end of the course
you should be able to: (1) evaluate the evidence that behavior
is shaped by natural selection; (2) recognize the interaction
between environmental modification and genetic determination;
and (3) explain sexual behavior, aggressive behavior, and social
interactions in terms of evolution. The course consists of lectures, readings, slides, and movies. Grades are based on two midterms
and a final exam; exams are multiple choice. Texts: The Selfish
Gene (rev. ed., R. Dawkins) and Animal Behavior, an Evolutionary
Approach (5th ed., J. Alcock). Cost:2
WL:1 (Payne)
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Times, Location, and Availability
140. Genetics and Society. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (4). (NS). (BS).
This introduction to the impact of modern genetics on society
is designed for students not concentrating in the sciences. Students
will gain a background in genetics that should enable them to:
(1) understand and evaluate reports on the latest advances in
genetics that appear in the media; (2) be able to discuss the
social history of genetics; (3) have a better appreciation of the "scientific method;" and (4) discuss aspects of
genetics that have a bearing on our daily lives. There will be three lectures and a discussion group per week, with topics such
as human diversity; genetics and medicine, including cancer, AIDS
and complex diseases; gene therapy; DNA and forensic analysis;
technological and economic applications of genetics; and biological
determinism. Course evaluation is mainly based on a flexible combination
of short-answer exams and a term paper. Cost:1
WL:1 (Gibson, Adams)
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Times, Location, and Availability
150. Introductory Biology Workshop. Concurrent enrollment in Biol. 152, 154, or 195. (1). (Excl). Offered mandatory credit/no credit.
Small groups of students meet weekly with a faculty member
for group discussions on topics selected by the faculty member.
Topics may include biological issues in the news, history of biological
ideas, and ethical issues in biological sciences. Students will
be introduced to biological research through discussion of faculty
research projects and tours of active research laboratories and museum collections. Such tours will be coupled with discussion
of scientific questions being pursued in the laboratories visited.
Introductory students will have the opportunity to interact directly
with a faculty member who will introduce them not only to the
basic areas of scientific research but also to the structure and opportunities available in biology concentration programs. Evaluation
of students will be through class participation and short written
assignments. WL:1
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152. Introduction to Biology: Term A. Chem. 130, or Chem. 210 placement. No credit granted to those who have completed or are enrolled in Biol. 195. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (4). (NS). (BS). Laboratory fee ($32) required.
First term of a two-term introductory sequence (152/154) intended
for concentrators in biology, other science programs, or preprofessional
studies. Other suitably prepared students wishing detailed coverage
of biology are also welcome. The aims of Biology 152/154 are:
(1) to provide factual and conceptual knowledge, (2) to afford
experience in obtaining and interpreting biological hypotheses, (3) to give an integrated overview of modern biology, and (4)
to develop thinking and writing skills. Topics in Biology 152
are divided among four areas: (a) cellular and molecular biology, (b) genetics, (c) evolution, and (d) ecology. Students MUST: (1)
attend 3 lectures and one 3-hour lab/discussion section each week;
(2) ATTEND THEIR ASSIGNED LAB/DISC MEETINGS EACH WEEK STARTING
WITH THE FIRST WEEK OR THEIR SPACE MAY BE GIVEN TO SOMEONE ON
THE WAITING LIST; and (3) RESERVE the times and dates for the
midterm and final exams (as specified in the Time Schedule )
before enrolling. Students usually purchase a textbook, lab manual, and course pack consisting of a syllabus and lecture notes. No
other study guides or supplementary materials need be bought.
For Honors credit, register in lecture 002 or 004 of Biology 152
and ANY lab/disc, plus Biology 153 (see below). For further information
contact the Biology 152/154 office, 1039 Chem Bldg (764-1430).
Cost:3 WL:2,
but go to 1039 Chem.
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153. Introductory Biology Honors: Term A. Prior or concurrent enrollment in Biol. 152 and either admission to the College Honors Program. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (1). (Excl). (BS).
Biology 153 is a one-credit discussion course that is meant
to be taken concurrently with Biology 152, a four-credit lecture/lab
course. The overall goal of this course is to introduce students
to two major intellectual approaches that biologists use to understand nature. The first topic is the impact of recent discoveries in
molecular biology and the second topic is the mechanism of biological
evolution. Students will read papers from the primary and secondary
scientific literature that will help them understand these very
challenging areas of biological inquiry. Discussion will focus
on the impact that discoveries in the fields are having on other
areas of biological science, on human health, and on more general
aspects of human society. Cost:2
WL:1
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Times, Location, and Availability
154. Introduction to Biology: Term B. Biol. 152. No credit granted to those who have completed or are enrolled in 195. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (4). (NS). (BS). Laboratory fee ($32) required.
This course is a continuation of Biology 152, and covers the
following topics: (a) plant biology; (b) development; (c) animal
structure and function; and (d) animal behavior. The aims and format are the same as those for Biology 152. Students MUST: (1)
attend 3 lectures and one 3-hour lab/discussion section each week;
(2) ATTEND THEIR ASSIGNED LAB/DISC MEETINGS EACH WEEK STARTING
WITH THE FIRST WEEK OR THEIR SPACE MAY BE GIVEN TO SOMEONE ON
THE WAITING LIST; and (3) RESERVE the times and dates for the
midterm and final exams (as specified in the Time Schedule)
before enrolling. Students usually purchase a textbook, lab manual, and course pack consisting of a syllabus and lecture notes. No
other study guides or supplementary materials need be bought.
For Honors credit, register in lecture 031 or 033 of Biology 154
and ANY lab/disc. For further information contact the Biology
152/154 office, 1039 Chem Bldg (764-1430). Cost:3
WL:2, but go to
1039 Chem.
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Times, Location, and Availability
155. Introductory Biology Honors: Term B. Prior or concurrent enrollment in Biol. 154 and either admission to the College Honors Program. Credit is granted for a combined total of 12 credits elected in introductory biology. (1). (Excl). (BS).
Biology 155 is a one-credit discussion course that is meant
to be taken concurrently with Biology 154, a four-credit lecture/lab
course. The overall goal of this course is to introduce students
to current research in the biological science being carried out
at the University of Michigan. This experience will help the students
select a lab in which to perform Honors research during their
junior and senior years. Each week a different visiting faculty
member will present his or her research. Following the presentation, the class will break up into smaller groups for discussion of
assigned reading related to that week's presentation. Cost:1
WL:1
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200. Undergraduate Tutorial. Permission of faculty member in biology. (2). (Excl). (INDEPENDENT). May be repeated for a total of 6 credits.
This course is intended for sophomores learning research and laboratory techniques, working under close supervision of a faculty
member. It may also be used for directed readings at an appropriate
level. It includes reading on a significant topic and regular
consultation with the faculty member chosen to supervise the work.
The required paper could be on the scientific literature in a
broad field, on biological issues on which the student may want
to do continuing work, or on the detailed results of research
in a biological specialty. Conferences, seminars, readings, and assigned writings are used to develop critical perspectives on
modern biological problems and to provide breadth and sense of
historical continuity in biological thought.
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207. Introductory Microbiology. Biol. 152. (4). (NS). (BS). Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement. Laboratory fee ($70) required.
The course consists of 3 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour
laboratory session each week. The lectures will trace the history
of microbiology, microbial growth and metabolism, microbial diversity, and the importance of microbes in the environment, industry, and medicine. The laboratory sessions introduce microscopy, aseptic
technique, staining, and the isolation, culture, and identification
of microbes from the local environment. Grades are based on two
lecture exams and the identification of unknown bacteria. The
course is required for the microbiology concentration program, and is appropriate for the biology concentration. Cost:3
WL:1 (Mann)
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Times, Location, and Availability
209. Introductory Plant Physiology Lectures. Biol. 152-154 or 195; college physics recommended. (3). (Excl). (BS).
This course is offered for students intending to concentrate
in botany and related sciences. It is a required course in the
botany concentration program, satisfies the physiology requirement
of the biology concentration program, and serves as an elective
in other concentrations. The content of the course material falls
into three sequential parts: (1) plant cell physiology which covers
enzyme action, respiratory and carbohydrate metabolism, photosynthesis, lipid metabolism, and nitrogen metabolism; (2) cellular and internal
transport, including plant nutrition, ion uptake, cell water relations, plant water relations, and translocation; and (3) plant growth
and development in which a variety of factors that influence plant
growth and development, such as hormones, light, photoperiodism, and temperature are discussed. The lectures serve as the major
source of information, and are intended to introduce the basic
concepts and mechanisms that underlie plant functions. Six exams;
two exams per part; take-home format. Students must purchase the
assigned textbook and a course pack. Because of the highly empirical
nature of plant physiology, students are recommended to take the
laboratory (Biol. 210) with this course. This course is offered
ONLY in the Fall term. Cost:3
WL:3 (Ikuma)
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210. Plant Physiology Laboratory. Prior or concurrent enrollment in Biol. 209. (3). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($65) required. Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
This laboratory course is offered to supplement and complement the plant physiology lectures (Biol. 209), and the laboratory
exercises are organized to follow closely the three main sequential
parts covered in lecture: i.e., (1) plant cell physiology, (2) cellular and internal transport, and (3) plant growth and development. Plant physiology is a highly empirical science. The
lab exercises are designed to have students experience representative
experiments in each of the three parts and learn a variety of
experimental approaches used in modern plant physiology. This
course serves as one of the three lab courses required in the
biology concentration program. Offered only in the Fall. Cost:1
WL:3 (Ikuma)
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224. Biology of Cancer. Biol. 152. No credit granted to those who have completed or are enrolled in Biol. 124. (3). (NS). (BS).
The Biology of Cancer is designed to provide science concentrators
with a basic understanding of the biological events associated
with the development of cancer. This course is organized around three fundamental questions: what is cancer, what causes cancer, and can cancer be cured or prevented? Lectures will include descriptions
of classical and recent experiments that address these questions, and will also provide students with the vocabulary and background
needed to critically read and evaluate technical literature dealing
with cancer. Student performance will be evaluated using exams
and a term paper based upon library research. There will be no
assigned cancer textbook, but some reading will be assigned from the course pack and from a short text on critical scientific thinking.
There will be two 90 minute lectures and one 90 minute discussion
per week. Non-science students interested in the subject of cancer
should elect Biology 124 instead of Biology 224. Cost:1
WL:1 (Kleinsmith)
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Times, Location, and Availability
252. Chordate Anatomy and Phylogeny. Biol. 152-154 or 195. (4). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($60) required. Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
This course teaches the comparative method, using the "three-fold
parallelism" of anatomy, ontogeny, and paleontology. All
examples are based on chordate animals, with emphasis on their
anatomy and development. The introductory third of the course
includes the theoretical basis of the comparative method, principles
of evolutionary theory and speciation, and phylogenetics. The
remainder of the course involves application of the method, with
a survey of chordate structure, including the integument, skeleton, muscles, and the circulatory, urogenital, digestive, respiratory, and nervous systems. The laboratory provides practical experience
in the comparative method, including dissections, preparation
of cleared and stained materials, and examination of fossils.
There are three one-hour lectures per week and one three-hour
laboratory. There are two hourly examinations and a final examination
for the lecture, and a one hour laboratory practical exam. A detailed
syllabus and laboratory manual, rather than an assigned textbook, are used, with supplementary texts on reserve. Cost:1
WL:1 (Fink)
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Times, Location, and Availability
281. General Ecology. Biol. 152 and 154 and a laboratory course in chemistry. (3). (NS). (BS).
The course introduces the basic concepts and principles of
ecology as applied to the study of individuals, populations, and communities of both plants and animals. Course topics include the roles of physical and biotic factors influencing the distribution
and abundance of organisms, the dynamics of population growth, species interactions including competition, predation, mutualism, the structure of ecological communities, ecological succession, and applications of ecology to problems of environment and resource
management. Biology 281 is a suitable prerequisite for intermediate
and advanced courses in ecology. There will be lectures, discussions, and computer simulations. Three exams will constitute the main
basis of evaluation. Cost:2
WL:1 (Rathcke)
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Times, Location, and Availability
282. General Ecology Laboratory. Biol. 152 and 154, a laboratory course in chemistry, and concurrent or prior enrollment in Biol. 281. (3). (Excl).
This laboratory course introduces the basic concepts and methods
used in ecological research. The laboratories consist of both
field and laboratory research projects, field trips, computer
simulations, and an independent research project that is designed
by each student. Students will write up laboratory reports and a paper on their independent research, give an oral presentation
on their independent research, and participate in laboratory discussions.
Cost:1 WL:1
(Rathcke)
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Times, Location, and Availability
300. Undergraduate Research. Eight credits of biology and 3.0 grade point average in science; permission of faculty member in biology. (1-3). (Excl). (INDEPENDENT). May be repeated for a total of 9 credits.
Intended primarily for juniors, including Honors students, who wish to pursue independent research or study at an intermediate
level in an area of biological science. The student may ask an
appropriate faculty member in the Department of Biology to direct the research project and supervise related readings. The project
may take the form of an investigation of new problems in the field
or laboratory, a detailed investigation of primary sources (a
literature survey), development of new procedures or programs, design of a classroom experiment, etc. A final paper is
required and must be approved by the research advisor.
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301. Writing for Biologists. Biol. 152-154 or 195, and English 125. (3). (Excl). (BS).
Biology 301 has been designed to help biology concentrators
to improve their writing as professional biologists. Course structure
and content have been planned to give students practice in the
kinds of writing that biologists actually do, to help them understand the basis for effective writing, and to give them the tools to
become their own best critics. The work load of the course consists
of a series of assigned paper, critiques of published papers, peer critiques, and short writing exercises. The effectiveness
of the course derives primarily from the close interaction between
staff and student, both in weekly class sections and in individual
conferences. A weekly lecture provides structure and continuity.
WL:1 (Martin)
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Times, Location, and Availability
302. Teaching Experience for Undergraduates. Permission of instructor. (1-3). (Excl). May not be included in any of the Biological Sciences concentration programs. (EXPERIENTIAL).
Undergraduates participating in this course are responsible
for (1) aiding regularly assigned Teaching Assistants; (2) providing
tutorial help for undergraduates enrolled in the course; (3) meeting
regularly with discussion and laboratory sessions; and (4) participating
with Teaching Assistants in instructional activities.
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305. Genetics. Biol. 152 or 195. Prior or concurrent enrollment in Biol. 310, 311, or Biol. Chem. 415, or Chem. 451. (4). (Excl). (BS).
This course is intended for students who are concentrating
in the natural sciences, or who will apply for graduate or professional
study in the biological sciences. The material is divided into
two sections; classical studies of how genes are transmitted, and molecular studies of gene structure and regulation. There
are three hours of lecture each week, and one discussion section
directed by a graduate student instructor. The discussion sections
are used to review and expand on lecture material, and to discuss
problem assignments. Grading is based on examinations covering
both lecture material and problem assignments. Cost:2
WL:1 (Ellis, Brown)
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Times, Location, and Availability
306. Introductory Genetics Laboratory. Prior or concurrent enrollment in Biol. 305. (3). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($70) required. Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
This course provides students with laboratory experience on
basic genetic principles. Students will analyze patterns of inheritance, gene interaction, linkage relationship and genetic mapping of
unknown mutants of Drosophila through a series of genetic
crosses. By using molecular techniques such as Polymerase Chain
Reaction (PCR) and gel electrophoresis, mutations in Caenorhabditis
elegans will be mapped to chromosomal locations. The experiments
in microbial genetics include mapping by conjugation in E.
coli, recombination analysis by transduction using bacteria
and phage, and complementation tests on "his" mutants
of yeast. Students will do karyotyping of human chromosomes by
using their own blood cells. One hour lecture on Mondays 12-1
PM and one three-hour lab are scheduled each week; additional
3-4 hours of lab time per week is expected at irregular times.
Students are expected to write three lab reports and to keep a
complete and accurate record of all results and analyses in a
bound lab notebook. There are two tests given during the term.
Cost:1 WL:1
(Jeyabalan)
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Times, Location, and Availability
310. Introductory Biochemistry. Biol. 152 or 195; and organic chemistry. No credit granted to those who have completed or are enrolled in Biol. 311, Biol. Chem. 415, or Chem 451. (4). (Excl). (BS).
Introductory Biochemistry is designed to be a general introduction
to the chemistry of biological systems. This course will furnish
basic information concerning the organization of chemical reactions
in cells and will include information on the enzymes that catalyze these reactions as well as on the interactions between different
pathways. Topics covered include: amino acid structure and nomenclature, protein structure and function, enzyme kinetics, nucleic acids, intermediary metabolism, photosynthesis, and regulation of metabolism.
Cost:2 WL:1
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311. Introductory Biochemistry. Biol. 152 or 195; and organic chemistry. No credit granted to those who have completed or are enrolled in Biol. 310, Biol. Chem. 415, or Chem 451. (4). (Excl). (BS).
This course is taught by a self-paced, personalized system
of instruction. Students interact, according to their own schedules, with undergraduate TA's. The student takes both a written and an oral quiz for each of 12 units which is graded and evaluated
by the TA. If mastery is attained, the student may proceed to the next unit. Grades are assigned according to the number of
units successfully completed and performance on the midterm and final examinations. This system is designed to take into consideration
different rates of individual learning as well as to eliminate
competition among students. TA's are available approximately 75-80
hours/week. Cost:3
WL:1 (Osgood)
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Times, Location, and Availability
320. Cellular Physiology. Biol. 152-154 or 195; Chem. 215. Not open to students who have completed or are enrolled in Biol. 427 or 428. (3). (Excl). (BS).
This lecture course aims to provide (1) understanding of basic
functions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, (2) appreciation
of the experimental evidence that has established our current
understanding, (3) through study of how evidence is used, inferences
about how science works, and (4) awareness of how cellular and molecular biology contribute to human affairs. Interdependence
of intracellular structure and function is stressed, along with
efforts to phrase explanations in molecular and evolutionary terms.
Course content includes: introduction to cell functions and diversity;
membrane structure and function; organelle function and biogenesis;
properties of cell surfaces; intracellular transport; secretion;
cell cycle; cytoskeleton; and methods for study of cell function.
The aim is to provide a selected background in cellular and molecular
biology for biology concentrators and others. Most students
enrolling have a foundation in biology, and may have completed
either genetics or biochemistry. For more detailed treatment, students should take Biology 427 or 428. There is a textbook; purchase is optional, but recommended. Recommended readings
are on reserve in the Shapiro Library. Exams include questions
which require interpretation of data, formulation or test of hypotheses, and interpretation of experiments. Students whose introductory
biology course lacked contents of Biol. 152 or 195 may have greater
difficulty with this course, but difficulty can be overcome via prior study of biochemistry and genetics. Cost:2
WL:1 (Shappirio, 764-1491)
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Times, Location, and Availability
355/NR&E 337. Woody Plants I: Biology and Identification. Biol. 152 or 195. (4). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($45) required. Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
The identification of trees, shrubs, and vines is the basis
for the study of their biology and ecology. Woody plants are studied
in their natural ecosystems – including upland (oak-hickory, beech-sugar maple, lake plain), wetland (swamp, bog), and floodplain
forests. Non-native species and ornamental plants are taught in the Saginaw Forest, Stinchfield Woods, Nichols Arboretum, and main campus. An introduction to the biology and ecology of woody
plants is given in lectures. Topics include vegetative and reproductive
morphology; woody plant biology, ecology, and diversity; variation
and genetics; systematics of woody plants; ornamental plants;
and winter conditions. Also discussed are important trees of southern
and western U.S., China, and the tropics. Field trips are scheduled
from 1:00 to 6:00 once a week. Michigan Trees (Barnes
and Wagner) is the required textbook. Grading is based on 60%
on plant identification (field quizzes and exams and indoor identification
exams); 40% on lecture material (two hour-exams). Cost:1
WL:2, at SNRE Office
of Academic Programs, 1024 Dana. (Barnes and Wagner)
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Times, Location, and Availability
380. Oceanography: Marine Ecology. Biol. 152-154 or 195, and at least one term of college chemistry or physics. (3). (Excl). (BS).
Marine ecology is a study of the organisms and processes of the ocean, including both pelagic and benthic communities. This
course teaches physical and chemical aspects, but concentrates
on biological aspects of oceanography, and applies ecological
and evolutionary principles to the study of marine life. Lectures
introduce the major groups of marine organisms and cover the interrelationships
of marine organisms and their environments. Organisms and communities
from the following habitats are discussed: estuaries, the rocky
intertidal, coral reefs, the coastal zone, the deep sea, and the
open ocean. The course treats organisms as different as bacteria
and whales. Meets the undergrad Biology concentration requirements
for a course in Biological Evolution and Diversity, and is required
for the Marine Biology option of the undergrad Oceanography concentration.
Grading is based on two one-hour exams plus a comprehensive final.
Cost:2 WL:1
(O'Foighil)
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Times, Location, and Availability
390. Evolution. Biol. 152-154. (4 in Ann Arbor; 5 at Biol. Station). (Excl). (BS).
This lecture course covers the fundamentals of evolutionary
biology with a focus primarily on living organisms. It includes
a historical survey of the development of evolutionary theory
from ancient philosophers to the present, and critical examination
of phylogenetic systematics, natural selection, population genetics, molecular evolution, microevolution, and macroevolution. Weekly
discussions will focus on primary literature. Two midterm tests
and one cumulative final exam will test students' knowledge of
lecture material. Short writing assignments based on readings
from the primary scientific literature will be required. WL:1
(Hazlett)
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Times, Location, and Availability
400. Advanced Research. 12 credits of biology, 3.0 average in science, and permission of faculty member in biology. (1-3). (Excl). (INDEPENDENT). May be repeated for a total of 9 credits.
Intended for those engaged in original research at an advanced
level. This course number is most frequently elected by senior
Honors students who have completed Biology 300 and who are completing their research and writing their thesis. A final paper is required.
(Refer to the description of Biology 300 for more information.)
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401. Special Topics in Biology.
Biol. 152-154 or 195. (3). (Excl). (BS). May be repeated
for a total of 6 credits.
Section 001 – Introduction to Protein Structure and Function.
We will identify three dimensional structural motifs that are
commonly found in proteins and discuss how they are related to the protein's functions. We will also consider how proteins fold
into their proper 3D structure. The class will be 2/3 lecture
and 1/3 hands on computer visualization, modeling, and discussion.
The class will also provide guidance in reading and interpreting
original scientific literature. Prerequisites: Biol 311 and 428
or the equivalent. Cost:1
(Bardwell)
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Times, Location, and Availability
406. Molecular Genetics of Plant Development. Biochemistry (Biol. 310, 311, or Biol. Chem. 415), and Genetics (Biol. 305). (3). (Excl). (BS).
This course is focused on the molecular basis of plant development.
Emphasis is placed on the genetic and molecular mechanisms employed
by plants to generate regular patterns of cells, tissues and organs, and to modify those patterns in response to internal and external
signals. The topics include embryogenesis, meristem function, organ formation, gametogenesis, cell differentiation, plant hormone
action, developmental responses to the environment, and signal
transduction. These topics will be explored through lecture material
and class discussions based on the primary literature. Students
will be exposed to the design of experimental approaches and the
critical evaluation of research papers. Emphasis is placed on the use of model plant species for the dissection of developmental
processes at the molecular and genetic levels. Student evaluation
is based on participation in the class discussions, a critical
paper on a current research topic, and one midterm and the final
exam. Cost:1
WL:1 (Clark)
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Times, Location, and Availability
412. Teaching Biochemistry by the Keller Plan. Biol. 311 and permission of instructor. (3). (Excl). This is a graded course. May not be included in any of the Biological Sciences concentration programs. (EXPERIENTIAL).
Undergraduates who previously have taken an introductory biochemistry
course act as TA's for Introductory Biochemistry (Biology 311).
TA's meet with the instructor for a two-hour class each week for
lectures, presentations, and discussions of teaching and biochemistry.
TA's also prepare a report on a recent advance in biochemistry
which they present to their peers and the instructor. The major
roles of the TA's are to examine the students on their mastery
of unit material and to help the students with explanations supplementary
to the textbook. At the completion of an instructor-generated
written quiz, the student and TA grade the quiz together. TA's
learn considerable biochemistry by repeated teachings of unit
materials and, in addition, profit from their experience as teachers
and evaluators. Cost:1
WL:3 (Osgood)
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422/Anatomy 422. Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology. Biol. 152-154 or 195, one year of physics, prior or concurrent enrollment in biochemistry. (3). (Excl). (BS).
This course deals primarily with the properties of individual
nerve cells, and small groups of nerve cells. This provides the
basis for understanding information processing by the nervous
system, learning and memory, development of neurons, and neurological
and psychiatric disorders. Considerable emphasis will be placed
on understanding the molecules that endow the nervous system with these properties. Cost:1
WL:1 (Kuwada)
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423. Introduction to Research in Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology. Concurrent enrollment in Biol. 422; or completion of Biol. 222 or 422, and permission of instructor. (3). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($70) required. Satisfies a Biology Laboratory requirement.
This lab course provides an introduction to experimental approaches
in neurobiology. Emphasis is on molecular, anatomical, and physiological
approaches for studying neuronal function. Among the molecular
topics to be covered are analysis of cDNA clones, PCR amplification
of DNA and expression of genes in foreign tissues. Among the anatomical
topics to be covered are gross and microscopic anatomy of nervous
systems, axonal pathway tracing, and immunocytochemical localization
of specific neuronal proteins. Among the physiological topics
to be covered are intracellular, extracellular and patch clamp
recording, as well as the use of computers in the acquisition
and analysis of data. This course is intended for students who
plan to engage in research in neurobiology. Cost:1
WL:3 (Hume)
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427. Molecular Biology. Biol. 305 and Biol. 310, 311, or Biol. Chem. 415, or equivalents. (4). (Excl). (BS).
Comprehensive coverage of the general principles governing the structures, synthesis, and functions of DNA, RNA, and proteins
in the context of the cell. Emphasizes understanding methods and interpretation of data. Topics include genome organization, DNA
replication and transposition, chromosome segregation, transcription
and translation, the processing of macromolecules, signal transfer, and regulation at various levels. Three lectures per week are
supplemented by a 1.5 hour discussion section. There will be two
examinations during the term and a final. Cost:4
WL:1 (Helling, Pichersky)
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Times, Location, and Availability
436(336). Introductory Immunology. Biol. 305 and biochemistry (Biol. 310, 311, or Biol. Chem. 415). (3). (Excl). (BS).
This course is intended to introduce pre-professional and biology
concentrators to the experimental and theoretical principles of
immunology. Topics covered will include a detailed study of the
organs, cells, and molecules that constitute the immune system; the humoral and cellular immune responses; antibodies as biological
and biomedical research tools; and the role of the immune system
in organ transplants, cancer and AIDS. Grades are based on weekly
quizzes and two exams. The course is appropriate for concentrations
in biology, microbiology, and cell and molecular biology. Cost:2 WL:1
(Mann)
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451. Biology of Mammals. Biol. 152-154 or 195. (4). (Excl). (BS). Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
Biology 451 introduces students to the diversity of mammals.
Through laboratory exercises (one four-hour laboratory period/week)
and lectures, participants will have opportunity to see and learn
about species representing all of the major groups of mammals.
We will review their evolutionary history; examine adaptations
such as those for running, digging, swimming, and flying; and discuss current research in ecology, behavior, zoogeography, and systematics. A text supplements the lectures, and a published
manual is required for the laboratory. Grades will be based on
lecture and laboratory exams, participation in discussions, and several brief papers. Cost:2
WL:1 (Myers)
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458. Biology of the Algae. Biol. 152 or 195, or Biol. 255. (5). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($40) required. Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
This course studies the very diverse group of plants and photosynthetic
protistans collectively known as "the algae," which
includes the prokaryotic blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria) and the eukaryotic green, golden, yellow-green, brown, and red algae
as well as well as the euglenoids, dinoflagellates, and cryptomonads.
The framework of the course is a systematic orientation, examining
representative examples from the various algal groups, mostly
from living material but also from prepared slides and preserved
specimens. It treats both freshwater and marine types and includes
identification, structure, reproduction, ecology, and stresses the interrelationships among the algae. A comparative approach
is followed. The use of algae as research tools is stressed, where
appropriate. Two lectures and two laboratory sessions per week
are scheduled, and two field trips are planned. Cost:3
WL:3 (Wynne)
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Times, Location, and Availability
459. Systematic Botany. Biol. 152-154 or 195, or Biol. 255. (4). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($30) required. Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
Plant biodiversity taught with lectures, color projection slides, trips, specimens, living plants, and laboratories. Emphasis at
level of orders, families, and genera, temperate and tropical, to familiarize students with all parts of the world. Focuses mainly
on flowering plants but also gymnosperms and pteridophytes. Phylogeny
provides the framework: Hypothetical ancestors and different lines
are analyzed, e.g., pinks (Caryophyllidae), roses (Rosidae), trees (Hamamelidae), lilies (Liliidae), etc. Subjects
like habitats, endangered species, geography, biosystematics, cladistics, floral biology are given special lectures. Plant biosystematics
is essential to botanists but the course is needed also by conservationists, ecologists, zoologists, foresters, and ethnobotanists. Some students
take the course simply because they enjoy plants. Two midterms, a final, and lab quizzes. Text: Flowering Plant Families,
W.B. Zemlefer, U. North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill. Cost:1
WL:1 (Wagner)
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Times, Location, and Availability
477. Laboratory in Field
Ecology. A course in ecology and field biology. (5).
(Excl). (BS).
This course will meet September 12-October 24, Friday evening
beginning at 7:00 p.m. and concluding Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m.
Ecology students require intensive practice in making field observations
and systematically exploring the implications of those observations.
One vehicle for doing so is the "field problem" based
course, in which a faculty member chooses a general topic and works with a small group of students exploring that topic for
an entire day. The field problem-based course is distinct from the laboratory course in that field problems seek to explore an
unknown area. The course does not include "set labs"
or repeats of well-known patterns. The professor and students
seek to explore an area that has not been explored before. The
exercise of working out the details of a new problem along with the professor gives the student practice in the creative part
of the scientific endeavor. Working with a variety of faculty
members gives the student experience with a variety of styles
of doing science. The general structure of the course, which is
centered on the field problem, encourages a great deal of discussion
among students and between students and faculty. A major goal
of the course is to facilitate that discussion. Additionally, there is a relatively large lecture load, with an average of four
lectures per weekend. (Curran, Vandermeer, Perfecto)
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481. Population Dynamics and Ecology. A course in ecology. Calculus is strongly recommended. (4). (Excl). (BS).
An examination of the principles of population ecology. Theoretical
and empirical research on population dynamics and regulation of
managed and natural populations are emphasized, as well as the
development of the mathematical and computer skills for modeling
dynamics of single and interacting populations. Specific topics
include concepts of linear and nonlinear dynamics, demography, life history evolution, density-dependence and population regulation, and basic models of competition, mutualism, predator-prey, host-disease, and other population interactions. A background in ecology or
permission of the instructor is required. There will be two 1.5
hour lectures and one two hour discussion section a week. Discussion
sections will cover original readings from the literature and techniques for modeling populations. Course requirements include
computer modeling projects and writeups, a midterm, and a final.
(Goldberg, Vandermeer, Wilson)
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489/NR&E 430. Soil Properties and Processes. Introductory biology and chemistry. (3). (Excl). (BS). Laboratory fee ($25) required. Satisfies a Biology laboratory requirement.
Soil as a central component of terrestrial ecosystems, with
a particular emphasis on physical, chemical, microbiological processes
as they are related to plant growth. Quantitative analysis and interpretation of field and laboratory data are stressed throughout the course. Temperate forest ecosystems are the primary focus
of the course; however, numerous examples are drawn from boreal, temperate, and tropical ecosystems. Knowledge of plant ecology
is beneficial and prerequisites include introductory biology and chemistry. Cost:4
WL:2 (Zak)
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Times, Location, and Availability
492. Behavioral Ecology. Biol. 152-154 or 195, and one additional course in zoology. (4). (Excl). (BS).
The objective of this course is to acquaint students with the
subject of animal behavior. All types of behavior and their ecological
ramifications are considered; both vertebrate and invertebrate
examples are utilized. The course approaches behavior from a zoological
viewpoint; emphasis is placed on understanding the methods of
investigation used in the study of animal behavior. Consideration
of physiological mechanisms is given, as well as discussion of the evolutionary framework in which behavior patterns evolve.
The course is divided into two sections. In the first, the types
of factors which affect behavior are discussed. During the second
part of the course, functional categories of behavior (feeding, orientation, agonistic, sexual) are discussed with an emphasis
on bringing together as many factors as possible in an attempt
to understand the control (both proximate and ultimate) of these
behaviors at all levels. Although Biology 152-154 or equivalent
are required, it would be best to have at least one of the following three areas before taking the course: genetics, ecology, or neurophysiology.
Students who wish to obtain a more complete background should
plan to take Biology 422 and/or Biology 494 either before or after
taking Biology 492. Methods of instruction: (1) lectures and discussion
are the primary means of instruction; (2) a text is also utilized, as are a number of outside readings; (3) there is a midterm lecture
exam and a short term paper, as well as a final exam. Cost:2
(Hazlett)
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Times, Location, and Availability
498. The Ecology of Agroecosystems. A course in ecology. (3). (Excl). (BS).
An analysis of ecological principles as they apply to agricultural
ecosystems, emphasizing theoretical aspects but also covering
empirical results of critical experiments. While the emphasis
is on principles, practical applicability is also explored where
appropriate. Physical, biological, and social forces will be integrated
as necessary. Designed as preparation for active research in agroecosytem
ecology. Cost:4
WL:3 (Vandermeer)
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Times, Location, and Availability
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