Courses 
Biology Department Course Listing
BI 15 General Biology I
BI 16 General Biology II
BI 18 Human Biology: Form and Function
BI 70 Science, Technology, and Society
BI 71 Identity and the Human Genome
BI 72 Horticulture
BI 75 Ecology and Society
BI 76 Environmental Science
BI 78 Introduction to Marine Science
BI 79 Rainforest Ecosystems
BI 80 Tropical Marine Biology
BI 86 Parasites: Yours, Your Pets' and Your Travels'
BI 87 Microbiology: The Plight of Humans and Microbes
BI 95/PH 230 Philosophy and Biology of Evolutionary Theory
BI 96 God and Modern Biology
BI 107-108 Human Anatomy and Physiology
BI 151 Elements of Microbiology
BI 170-171-172 General Biology (Majors)
BI 203/PY 203 Statistics for the Life Sciences
BI 213 Endocrinology
BI 217 Nutrition and Metabolism
BI 260 Ecology
BI 261 Genetics
BI 296 Special Topics in Biology
BI 312 Human Physiology
BI 313 Comparative Physiology
BI 321 Animal Behavior
BI 326 Biochemistry
BI 327 Cell Biology
BI 331 Histology
BI 340 Parasitology
BI 342 Developmental Biology
BI 352 Fundamentals of Microbiology
BI 354 Molecular Biology
BI 356 Immunology
BI 357 General Virology
BI 358 Recombinant DNA Technology
BI 362 Marine Invertebrate Zoology
BI 364 Freshwater Ecology
BI 365 Evolutionary Biology
BI 366 Ornithology
BI 368 Plant Biology: Evolution, Diversity, and Environment
BI 369 Plant Biology: Morphology, Biochemistry and Physiology
BI 370 Environmental Health and Safety
BI 375 Biochemical Ecology
BI 382 Principles of Aquaculture Seminar
BI 383 Coral Reef Ecology Seminar (Capstone)
BI 384 Parasitology Seminar (Capstone)
BI 385 Molecular Mechanisms of Human Disease Seminar (Capstone)
BI 386 Bacterial Pathogenesis Seminar (Capstone)
BI 387 Experimental Design Seminar (Capstone)
BI 388 Ecology of the North Atlantic Coast Seminar
BI 391-392 MUSE Research
BI 393-394 MUSE Internship
BI 395-396 Independent Research I & II
BI 397-398 Internships
BI 15 General Biology I
This course, an introduction to the study of biology for the non-science major, familiarizes students with the general biological principles that govern the activities of all living systems. Concepts include the biochemical origin of life, cellular morphology and physiology, and human genetics. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 16 General Biology II
Students examine biological systems such as the human organism in detail, with an emphasis on pathophysiology; diversity of life; and evolution. Emphasis is determined by instructor. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. Prerequisite: BI 15. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 18 Human Biology: Form and Function
This course, which provides a basic introduction to human anatomy and physiology, examines the major organ systems of the body, focusing on how each system functions, and how all systems interact with one another. Using comparative methods, students gain an appreciation for the evolutionary origins of human form, examine how design problems (such as sharing a tube for breathing and eating) were overcome, discuss current issues in public health, and focus on the environmental health problems that human populations face. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 70 Science, Technology and Society
This course analyzes the major issues of science and technology that confront today's society. Through an examination of the underlying science, students gain an understanding of the impact these issues hold for the environment, our natural resources, and our society, including benefit versus hazard expectations. Course issues, which change to incorporate timely topics, include acid rain, agriculture, diseases such as AIDS, cancer, and heart disease, energy, genetic engineering, the greenhouse effect, ozone depletion, and water pollution. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 71 Identity and the Human Genome
This course introduces scientific and social aspects of human genetics to the non-science major. Topics of discussion include the structure and function of genes, human genetic diversity, Mendelian inheritance and the ethical and legal issues related to emerging genetic technologies. This course counts as a science core but does not satisfy requirements for the biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 72 Horticulture
Geared for non-science majors, this course examines basic horticultural science, practice, and plant material. Scientific topics include nomenclature, plant parts, basic processes, and plant development as influenced by the environment. Practice topics include propagation, management of the indoor and outdoor environments, and cultural needs. Plant material topics include ornamental plants (flowers, shrubs, trees, lawns, greenhouse and house plants), vegetables, fruits, nuts, and herbs. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 75 Ecology and Society
This course focuses on environmental issues raised by modern society's conflicting needs for land, water, a livable environment, and renewable/nonrenewable resources. Students examine the available scientific evidence and are encouraged to draw their own conclusions concerning these environmentally sensitive issues, which are presented in lectures, readings, films, and occasional off-campus field trips (by arrangement). This course is open to all except biology majors. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 76 Environmental Science
The science of the environment is presented through examination of the interconnections among physical, chemical, and biological fields of inquiry. This course looks at how the global environment is altered by the human population, technology, and production of fuels and food. In this course, students will acquire a scientific understanding of current issues in environmental science and learn to evaluate claims about current environmental problems. This course satisfies the Natural Sciences core requirement but does not satisfy requirements for the biology or chemistry major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 78 Introduction to Marine Science
This course introduces the non-science major and the marine science minor to the field of oceanography. Topics dealing with the geological, physical, chemical, and biological aspects of science underscore the interdisciplinary nature of world ocean study. Note: this course counts as a science core course and is a required course for the Marine Science minor. It does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 79 Rainforest Ecosystems
This course introduces the non-science major to the rainforest, examining the ecosystems of temperate (North American) and tropical (South American, African and Asian) rainforests from a botanical and environmental perspective. The course emphasizes the importance of biological diversity and natural products, and analyzes solutions for saving rainforests. This course is sometimes offered as part of the interdisciplinary learning community, Latin American Studies: The Rainforest Community. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 80 Tropical Marine Biology
This course examines the ecology of tropical marine communities found throughout the world. Students focus on the biology of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests and explore their interdependence. Topics include discussions of coral reef types and distribution, coral reef biodiversity, natural and human impacts, and coral reef management strategies. This course satisfies a science core requirement and can be used as an elective in the marine science minor. It does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 86 Parasites: Yours, Your Pets' and Your Travels'
Students read excerpts from four books written for the non-scientist that deal with highlights in the history of the immune system and several key parasitic diseases. In-house television video clips and assigned Web sites convey an appreciation of the living parasite. The course focuses on those parasites that students are most likely to encounter in or on themselves, their pets, or as a result of their travels, touching on the relevant aspects of host physiology. The course format is an extensive discussion approach based on pre-assigned topics. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 87 Microbiology: The Plight of Humans and Microbes
This course surveys the interactions of microorganisms on humans that result in various types of diseases. The course emphasizes bacterial and viral infections that involve the various organs associated with skin, respiratory, digestive, urogenital, nervous and lymphatic systems. It also addresses the importance of infection control and prevention, the control of growth, and the functional anatomy of micro-organisms provides a historical perspective on the various diseases surveyed. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 95/PH 230 Philosophy and Biology of Evolutionary Theory
This course explores the question of evolutionary theory from the perspectives of philosophy and biology. From the biological perspective, the course focuses on Mendelian inheritance, natural and sexual selection, speciation, and human evolution. From the philosophical perspective, the course focuses on questions such as essentialism vs. population thinking, Cartesianism vs. dialectical thinking, units of selection, function and adaptationism, and human nature. Note: this course counts as a science core course, but does not satisfy requirements for the Biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 96 God and Modern Biology
This course introduces students to the dialogue between science and religion with a detailed consideration of recent advances in modern biological research that raise significant religious, theological and ethical issues. The course emphasizes developing a practical understanding of the scientific method through interactive experiences and lecture material. Students consider how scientific breakthroughs and ideas can influence or be influenced by religious thought through assigned readings and in-class discussion groups and through the historically significant and most recent findings in the areas of evolution, biotechnology, and the neurosciences. Note: This course counts as a science core course but does not satisfy requirements for the biology major or minor. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 107-108 Human Anatomy and Physiology
This course, recommended for nursing majors, gives students a familiarity with the anatomy and physiology of body processes with special emphasis on the practical aspects of circulation, respiration, digestion, reproduction, and the glands of internal secretion. Techniques include measuring blood pressure, blood typing, and others. Note: This course is not open to biology majors, except where required for allied health sciences (chair approval required). Physiology (BI 312) is recommended for Biology majors who are interested in human physiology. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 8 credits.
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BI 151 Elements of Microbiology
This microbiology for nursing majors examines the structure and function of bacteria, viruses, yeasts, molds, antibiotics, and bacterial genetics, as well as the mechanisms of microbial invasion and the body's immunological response. This course is not open to Biology majors. Fundamentals of Microbiology (BI 352) is recommended for Biology majors who are interested in microbiology. Prerequisites: BI 107, CH 84. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 170-171-172 General Biology (Majors)
A three-semester introduction to biology for the biology major. The first semester of the series (BI 170) covers the molecular and cellular basis of life, including cell structure and function, cell communication, inheritance, gene expression and regulation, and developmental genetics. The second semester of the sequence (BI 171) focuses on biochemistry, energy utilization, anatomy and physiology, and plant and animal structure and function. The third semester of the sequence (BI 172) focuses on organismal biology with an emphasis on evolution, biological diversity, ecology, and environmental sciences. Students receive hands-on experience with a broad range of topics and techniques in the accompanying laboratory. 3 lectures, 1 lab per semester. 12 credits.
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BI 203/PY 203 Statistics for the Life Sciences
This introductory course in statistical methodology and analysis includes descriptive statistics such as frequency distributions, central tendency, variability, and correlation, and an introduction to probability, sampling theory, and tests of significance (t-test, Chi Squared, ANOVA, and non-parametric statistics). The laboratory complements the course by giving students supervised computation and problem-solving exercises with calculator and computer. This course cannot be counted as a biology block elective. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 213 Endocrinology
This course examines the glands of internal secretion and their location, anatomy, and function, including the mechanisms of their secretions and and cell signaling importance in the regulation of body functions. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 11-12 and CH 211. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 217 Nutrition and Metabolism
Students consider the roles of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals and water in mammalian nutrition, examining the physiology of animal digestion, absorption, and intermediary metabolism in relation to nutritional needs and energy balance. The course covers recent developments in the application of nutritional findings to metabolic disorders such as diabetes, heart disease, and neurochemical deficits, evaluating them in relation to the principles of animal nutrition. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 11-12 and CH 211. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 260 Ecology
This course is designed as an overview of the science of ecology - the study of interactions between organisms and their environment. This course uses a hierarchical approach to describe organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems. We discuss the types of questions ecologists ask, and the method ecologists use to answer questions. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 11-12. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 261 Genetics
This course offers a comprehensive study of the fundamental principles of classical and molecular genetics. Major topics include transmission (Mendelian) genetics, gene linkage and mapping, fundamentals of molecular biology, molecular approaches to genetic analysis, genetic engineering and recombinant DNA technology, microbial genetics, developmental genetics and population genetics. The course emphasizes the role of genetics in evolutionary biology. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 296 Special Topics in Biology
This course requires library research and the writing of a scholarly paper on a special topic. The student discuss the topic with and must obtain consent from an appropriate professor prior to registration. 3 credits.
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BI 312 Human Physiology
This course considers homeostatis in humans by means of a comprehensive survey of the morphology and physiology of vertebrate organ systems. Special emphasis is given to organ systems associated with water and electrolyte balance, respiration, digestion, movement, and neurological control. Formerly listed as Human Physiology. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 11-12 and CH 211-212. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 313 Comparative Physiology
This course facilitates the understanding the physiological systems in humans (i.e., circulation, muscle, endocrine and nervous function) by using a comparative, evolutionary approach. Students will examine and compare physiological systems in humans to the range of vertebrates, including other mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. This evolutionary approach will provide a more in-depth comprehension of the functioning of human physiological systems. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 11-12, and CH 211-212. 3 lectures. 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 321 Animal Behavior
This comparative survey of the behavioral patterns and social relationships of invertebrate and vertebrate animals includes an examination of the genetic, physiological, and ecological mechanisms underlying behavioral interactions, and their adaptive significance. In the laboratory, students learn observational and experimental methods used in animal behavior research. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 326 Biochemistry
This course examines the structure and function of biological macromolecules with emphasis on their role in eukaryotic cell processes. The course focuses on the regulation of metabolic pathways involved in the synthesis, breakdown, and interconversion of biochemical intermediates. Students develop an understanding of basic biochemical principles in the context of overall cell function. Laboratory exercises expose students to a broad range of modern biochemical investigative methods. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172; CH 211-212. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 327 Cell Biology
This course focuses on the structure and function of eukaryotic cells. Students explore the relationship between gene expression and protein synthesis, and discuss how different proteins coordinate a complex array of important biological tasks in the cell. The course covers the biochemical interactions that occur within and between cells that sustain viability and mediate cell communication. Topics include gene expression and protein production, enzyme structure/function, protein to protein interactions, cytoskeleton, and extracellular matrix, mechanisms of transport, signal transduction, cell cycle and apoptosis. Laboratories include analysis of cell morphology, RNA and protein expression, and assays to study the growth, differentiation, and death of eukaryotic cells in response to their environment. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 11-12 and CH 211-212. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 331 Histology
Students study the microscopic anatomy of vertebrate animals, the morphology of cells, and their combinations in the various tissues and organs of the body. The course relates the structure of cells, tissues, and organs is constantly related to function, with a major focus on the physiology of each organ. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 2 lectures, 2 labs. 4 credits.
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BI 340 Parasitology
This introduction to the biology of parasites of humans and domestic animals emphasizes the host-parasite relationship and provides students with an opportunity to integrate acquired knowledge of host and parasite anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, ecology and immunology. The course also covers the molecular biology of selected parasites. Laboratory exercises include examination of preserved and living organisms (obtained locally and maintained in the laboratory) as well as experimental design and evaluation. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 11-12 and CH 211-212. 2 lectures, 2 labs. 4 credits.
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BI 342 Developmental Biology
This course explores how the transition from a single-celled, fertilized egg to a multicellular animal is accomplished, emphasizing the dynamic interactions that occur at the molecular level to tightly control developmental processes. Topics include mechanisms of cell fate and differentiation, the molecular basis of differential gene expression, analysis of the molecular cues regulating body axis formation, environmental regulation of animal development, and developmental mechanisms of evolutionary change. The laboratory for this course consists of student-designed group research projects using key animal model systems. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 352 Fundamentals of Microbiology
This comprehensive introduction to microbiology includes microbial cell structure, physiology, genetics, evolution and taxonomy, diversity, ecology, and applied microbiology. Lab sessions introduce microbiological techniques, such as aseptic technique, microscopy. Laboratory sessions introduce microbiological techniques (aseptic technique microscopy, bacterial staining, culture techniques) and other research methods. Students use skills acquired in the lab to design and conduct independent investigations. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 and CH 211-212. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 354 Molecular Biology
This introduction to molecular biology examines protein structure, DNA structure, RNA structure, the roles of DNA and RNA in protein synthesis, and the replication and repair of DNA and RNA in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells and relates the effects of mutations to DNA, RNA, and proteins. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 211-212. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 356 Immunology
This introduction to immunology covers the humoral and cellular basis of immune response, emphasizing antigens, the structure and function of immunoglobulins, antibody formation, and living/experimental manifestations of the immune response. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 357 General Virology
This introductory course covers the entire field of virology, with a special emphasis on animal viruses. Coverage centers on the physical, biochemical, and biological aspects of each bacterial, and animal virus class. Discussion stresses viral morphology, replication and assembly, pathogenesis of viral infections, and the epidemiology, prevention and control of viral diseases. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures. 3 credits.
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BI 358 Recombinant DNA Technology
This course provides biology majors with practical experience in recent advances in molecular biology and biotechnology. The course allows the student to become familiar with the manipulation of genetic material (DNA) and to understand the techniques used for isolation and characterization of genes. Laboratory sessions cover topics such as the principles of aseptic technique, isolation of plasmid DNA from bacteria, transformation of bacteria and yeast, restriction enzyme digestion, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and gene manipulation. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 and BI 354; CH 211-212. 3 labs. 3 credits.
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BI 362 Marine Invertebrate Zoology
Students study the phylogeny, ecology, morphology and physiology of the major marine invertebrate groups with emphasis on local fauna. The laboratory component includes field trips to various habitats in Long Island Sound to collect specimens for identification and study. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 or permission of the instructor. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 364 Freshwater Ecology
Students will learn the applied and theoretical concepts of the field of ecology using examples from freshwater aquatic systems. In the laboratory, students will learn the major groups of organisims present in aquatic systems and conduct experiments involving ecological concepts such as predation and competition. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 365 Evolutionary Biology
The course begins with an examination of the intellectual origins of biological thought and includes a study of the historical factors that contributed to Charles Darwin's development of the theory of evolution. Topics include the evidence for evolution, the forces affecting evolution (e.g., mutation, migration, genetic drift and selection), and natural selection as the basis of adaptation, as well as the philosophical and practical aspects of defining species and reconstructing phylogenetic relationships. Students critique (individually and in groups) current papers on topics such as punctuated equilibrium theory, Darwinian medicine, human origins, co-evolutionary arms races, systematics and biodiversity, and the evolution of sex. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 366 Ornithology
This upper-level lecture laboratory and field course on avian biology has an emphasis on ecology and evolution. The course will familiarize students with the staggering diversity of birds and the adaptations that have contributed to their success. Laboratory activities will include: 1. a multi-week student investigation of avian diversity of form and function and, 2. a series of field trips that emphasize unique adaptations and means of identification of birds found in Connecticut. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 368 Plant Biology: Evolution, Diversity, and Environment
This course covers the evolutionary process before moving on to evolution and diversity of land plants from bryophytes and ferns to gymnosperms and angiosperms. Students examine the environmental impact of using plants for food production and are expected to assemble a field plant collection. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 369 Plant Biology: Morphology, Biochemistry and Physiology
This advanced study of gymnosperms and angiosperms. Special emphasizes morphology, biochemistry and physiology including the structure, function and development of conifers, monocots and dicots. The course relates biochemistry and physiology of plant processes to contemporary topics in genetic engineering of plants. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 370 Environmental Health and Safety
This course focuses on the environmental, health and safety aspects associated with the use of and exposure to biologicals, chemicals and radiation examining the risks, hazards and environmental impact associated with hazardous materials. The course reviews methods to minimize risk and environmental pollution, federal and state regulations associated with hazardous materials, conducting safety audits and inspections in the lab context, and proper methods of hazardous materials disposal. Prerequisites: CH 11-12. 2 lectures, 1 lab. 3 credits.
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BI 375 Biochemical Ecology
In this course, students will investigate the breadth of chemical compounds used by organisms for feeding, reproduction, defense, and communication and place these in an appropriate ecological and evolutionary context. In the laboratory, students wil gain experience in field and laboratory methods necessary for understanding chemically-mediated interactions among plants, animals, and their environments. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 211, 212. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 382 Principles of Aquaculture Seminar
This course introduces students to the rapidly growing science of aquaculture or fish farming. Using a comprehensive approach, the course includes discussions of the following topics: historical development, culture and rearing techniques, diseases, regulations and permitting and marketing of aquatic plants and animals. A seminar format is used in which students read, analyze, and present scientific and technical papers from the primary literature. In the laboratory, students are responsible for the set up, operation, and maintenance of small-scale aquaculture production systems for growing tilapia. This course satisfies the capstone requirement for biology majors and can be used as an elective for the marine science minor. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 or permission of the instructor. 3 lectures, 1 lab. 4 credits.
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BI 383 Coral Reef Ecology Seminar
Students study of the complex ecological relationships found in coral reef ecosystems. Topics include discussions of reef development, coral symbiosis and growth, reef trophic dynamics, ecology and behavior of coral reef fish and invertebrates, and the effects of natural and human disturbance on coral reef communities. A seminar format is used in which students read, analyze and present scientific research papers from the primary literature. This course satisfies the capstone requirement for biology majors and can be used as an elective for the marine science minor. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 or permission of the instructor. 3 credits.
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BI 384 Parasitology Seminar
Students analyze and present primary literature representing current areas of active research in parasitology, with a focus on protist and animal parasites of humans. Initial presentations build on student backgrounds. The second presentation provides an opportunity to explore a new area of biological research. The breadth of the host-parasite relationship: anatomical, physiological, immunological, genetic, molecular, provides the platform for a capstone experience. Students obtain permission of the instructor prior to enrolling so that required readings may be tailored to the enrollment of each class. This course fulfills the Biology major capstone requirement or the morphology and physiology block requirement. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 211-212 and two electives at the 300 level, or permission of the instructor. 3 credits.
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BI 385 Molecular Mechanisms of Human Disease Seminar
This is an upper level seminar course covering the molecular and cellular events that underlie complex human diseases. Students learn how to critically analyze and interpret primary literature on the molecular aspects of such diseases as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimers, and AIDS. Students summarize and present selected articles at each meeting and use thee acquired skills to investigate a particular topic of their choice in the form of a grant proposal for the final project. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 211-212 and one additional upper-level course in the physiology/morphology block. Permission of the instructor is also required. 3 credits.
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BI 386 Bacterial Pathogenesis Seminar
This course examines the role of prokaryotes in disease with an emphasis on the genetics and physiology of disease mechanisms of pathogenesis. Topics include aspects of the human immune response, host-parasite relationships, and the epidemiology and evolution of infectious disease. This course satisfies the Biology major capstone requirement or the molecular, cell and developmental block requirement. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172 and BI 352. 3 credits.
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BI 387 Experimental Design Seminar
This course discuses methods and principles of conducting experimental research through lecture and literature survey, with a strong emphasis on field (not laboratory) approaches to ecology, evolution and environmental science. The course presents experimental design and sampling techniques to investigate topics from the level of autoecology to the ecosystem and demonstrates the relationship between statistics and experimental design for specific research problems. Students review and critique examples from the primary literature. This course satisfies the Biology major capstone requirement or the ecology, evolution and environmental science block requirement. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172. 3 credits.
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BI 388 Ecology of the North Atlantic Coast Seminar
This seminar examines the processes that generate ecological patterns in North Atlantic coastal ecosystems with a focus on the ecology of salt marshes, tidal rivers, sandy beaches, and rocky shores, and the human impact on these systems. The course centers on student-led discussions of readings from the scientific literature. This course satisfies the Biology major capstone requirement or the ecology, evolution and environmental science block requirement. Prerequisites: BI 170-171-172, CH 11-12. 3 credits.
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BI 391-392 MUSE Research (See Marine Science Program)
Students participating in the MUSE program design and carry out an independent project with an environmental focus. Projects may include scientific research involving laboratory analysis or field study of Long Island Sound and its watershed, applied projects leading to the restoration of degraded habitats, or educational projects preparing exhibits or environmental programs for local K-12 students. This course satisfies the capstone requirement for biology majors and can be used as an elective for the marine science minor. 3 credits.
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BI 393-394 MUSE Internship (See Marine Science Program)
As an intern at the SoundWaters Community Center for Environmental Education, students assist educators teaching ecology to local K-12 students in programs at the Center, on field trips to other sites, and in after-school programs. Interns also teach on Long Island Sound aboard the schooner, SoundWaters. Additional duties at the Center include the care and maintenance of aquarium animals and exhibits. This course satisfies the capstone requirement for biology majors and can be used as an elective for the marine science minor. This course can be used to fulfill the U.S. diversity requirement. Permission of the instructor is required. 6 credits.
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BI 395-396 Independent Research I & II
This course requires a research thesis involving laboratory investigation. Seniors and qualified juniors obtain the consent of the professor supervising their research interest area prior to registering for this program. Past topics include aquatic ecology, bacterial ecology and physiology, biochemistry, cell-wall biosynthesis, evolution of marine invertebrates, genetic regulation of animal development, mammalian physiology, plant biostimulants, plant/insect ecology, population and disease dynamics of shellfish, and signal transduction/gene regulation. 3 credits per semester.
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BI 397-398 Internships
Available for junior- and senior-level biology majors in good academic standing. Internships are available subject to individual arrangement for students interested in allied health, environmental science, marine science, medicine, dentistry, biotechnology, and emergency medicine. Students provide their own transportation and must discuss their internships with the department chair and obtain consent of the supervising professor prior to registering for this course. Credit by arrangement.
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