Course Offerings (GSAS Bulletin)
Courses numbered on the 1000 level are open to advanced
undergraduate students and recommended as introductory courses for entering
graduate students. Courses on the 2000 level are advanced courses open to
students in the M.S. and the Ph.D. programs. Courses on the 3000 level are
usually open only to students in the Ph.D. program.
Note: Most courses are given during the day. It is not
possible to complete either the M.S. or the Ph.D. program by taking courses
only in the evening.
Two-Part Courses: A hyphen indicates a full-year course with
credit granted only for completing both terms. A comma indicates credit is
granted for completing each term.
The following courses are lectures unless otherwise
indicated.
Bio Core 1: Molecules and Cells
G23.1001 Undergraduate students may enroll with
permission of the instructor. Lecture. Staff. 4 points.
This intensive team-taught core course, which is required for
incoming M.S. and Ph.D. biology students, surveys the major topics of
up-to-date molecular and cellular biology, starting with molecular structure
and function of proteins and polynucleic acids and ending with cell division
and apoptosis. These topics are taught by biology faculty with expertise in
each area. This course is part of a suite of courses that includes a companion,
discussion-based, 2000-level course following the same topics each week (Bio
Core 3).
Bio Core 2: Genes, Systems, and Evolution
G23.1002 Prerequisite: G23.1001. 4 points.
This intensive team-taught core course surveys the major
topics of modern biology, including genetics, systematics, genomics, systems
biology, developmental genetics, plant biology, immunology, neurobiology, population
genetics, evolution, and geobiology. The course is designed to build on and
incorporate the molecular/cell focus of the preceding course. These topics are
taught by biology faculty with expertise in each area. This course is part of a
suite of courses that includes a companion, discussion-based, 2000-level course
following the same topics each week (Bio Core 4).
Environmental Health G
23.1004 Identical to G48.1004. Not open to students
who have taken G23.2305 or G48.2305. Lippmann. 4 points.
Discusses some of the basic concepts of environmental
science and major global environmental problems, such as global warming, soil
erosion, overpopulation, and loss of biota. Another part of the course focuses
on environmental health problems, such as exposure to lead, mercury,
halogenated hydrocarbons, asbestos, and radon. Other lectures are devoted to
carcinogenesis, air pollution, toxic wastes, epidemiology, and risk assessment.
Toxicology G23.1006
Identical to G48.1006. Not open to students who have taken G23.2310 or
G48.2310. Prerequisites: V23.0025 and V25.0243-0244. Recommended: biochemistry.
Gunnison, Jaeger. 4 points.
Introduction to the science of toxicology, stressing basic
concepts essential to understanding the action of exogenous chemical agents on
biological systems. Principles underlying the absorption, metabolism, and
elimination of chemicals are discussed. Toxicokinetics, specific classes of
toxic responses, and experimental methods used to assess toxicity are also
examined.
Advanced Immunology
G23.1011
Lecture. Reiss. 4 points.
Introduction to immunology and its literature. Focuses on
the mechanisms that govern the immune response and also trains students in
reading and evaluating primary research articles that are published in
peer-reviewed journals.
Advanced Topics in Cellular and Molecular Immunology
G23.1020 Prerequisite: V23.0050,
G23.1011, or permission of the instructor. Reiss. 4 points.
In-depth exploration of topics in cellular and molecular
aspects of immunity, including cellular interactions, antigen processing and
presentation, pathogenesis, viral immunology, and cytokines.
Microbiology G23.1027
Prerequisites: college courses in organic chemistry and some advanced
biology. Recommended: biochemistry or physiology. Stotzky. 4 points.
Introduction to the evolution, morphology, physiology,
biochemistry, genetics, and ecology of the protists. Emphasis is on bacteria,
fungi, and viruses, although algae and protozoa are considered. Explores the
similarities and differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and the
microbiology of natural habitats.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Techniques G23.1029 Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: permission
of the instructor. Lecture and laboratory. Tan. 4 points.
Provides a working knowledge and experience in scanning
electron microscopy. Emphasis is on understanding the operation of the SEM
(including routine maintenance), the design of the SEM, interaction of beam and
specimen, a variety of specimen preparation techniques, photographic techniques
for microscopy, and photographic procedures for presentation of data. A
functional perspective of the ultrastructure as seen through the SEM is also
studied.
Special Topics in Physiology
G23.1031 Prerequisite: college course in animal
physiology. Scott. 4 points.
Designed for students with a background in mammalian
physiology. Topics include reproduction biology, regulation of ion and water
excretion, maintenance and control of cardiovascular function, and respiratory
physiology.
Electron Microscopic Techniques
G23.1033 Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: permission
of the instructor. Lecture and laboratory. Tan. 4 points.
Introduction to the principles and techniques of electron
microscopy as applied to biological systems. The theory of tissue preparation
by various means and the relationship between cell structure and function are
examined through the microscope. Laboratory includes methods of preparation of
animal (or plant) tissue for visualization of profiles in the transmission
electron microscope.
Experimental Microbiology
G23.1037 Enrollment limited. Prerequisite: G23.1027 or
equivalent (corequisite with permission of the instructor). Laboratory.
Stotzky. 4 points.
Acquaints students with general principles and procedures of
microbiology and advanced experimental techniques. Students are expected to
undertake individual laboratory projects and to make use of original
literature.
Biochemistry I, II
G23.1046, 1047 Identical to G25.1881, 1882. Prerequisites:
V25.0243 and V25.0244, or equivalent courses in organic chemistry for G23.1046;
G23.1046 for G23.1047. Kallenbach, staff. 4 points per term.
Two-semester course taught jointly by faculty from the
Departments of Biology and Chemistry. Topics include organic and physical
chemistry of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids; enzyme
kinetics and mechanisms; membranes and transport; bioenergetics and
intermediary metabolism; molecular genetics and regulation.
Cell Biology
G23.1051
Pre- or corequisites: G23.1046, 1047. 4 points.
Examination of the molecular mechanisms underlying cell
proliferation and differentiation. Five topics are chosen for discussion:
signal transduction, regulation of cell cycle, cytoskeleton, cell-cell and
cell-matrix interaction, and intracellular transport. The importance of these
issues in the understanding of development, immunity, and cancer is emphasized.
Principles of Evolution
G23.1069 Prerequisite: genetics or permission of the
instructor. Fitch. 4 points.
Patterns of evolution and adaptation as seen in the
paleontological record; speciation, extinction, and the geographic distribution
of populations; the basics of population genetics and molecular evolution.
Elements of numerical taxonomy and recent developments in phylogenetic
systematics.
Ecological Botany
G23.1070
Lecture and laboratory. Maenza-Gmelch. 4 points.
Concentrated summer field course in plant ecology and field
biology.
Molecular Controls of Organismal Form and Function
G23.1072 Prerequisites: V23.0011, 0012,
V23.0021, 0022, V25.0101-0102, and V25.0103-0104, or permission of the
instructor. Coruzzi, Desplan. 4 points.
Covers metabolism, signaling, and development, highlighting
use of molecular and genetic studies in model plant and animal systems.
Biotic Resources: Integrative Approaches to Biodiversity and
Conservation
G23.1073 DeSalle. 4 points.
Covers population genetics, conservation biology, and
biogeography.
Animal Virology
G23.1080
Lecture. Reiss. 4 points.
Details the molecular life cycles of viruses that infect
mammalian cells. Topics covered include disease pathogenesis, immune evasion
mechanisms, vaccination, and genetic immunization vectors.
Genes and Animal Behavior G23.1082 Lecture. Blau. 4 points.
Survey of principles and patterns of animal behavior. Covers
classical ethological research of Lorenz and others and modern research on the
molecular basis of behavior, especially in model systems. Behaviors studied
include reproductive behavior, rhythmic behavior, learning and memory, and
feeding behavior.
Neuronal Plasticity
G23.1101
Prerequisite: V23.0021, 0022 or V23.0100. Lecture. Azmitia. 4 points.
Introductory survey of neuronal plasticity and the
principles of neuroanatomy, pharmacology, and development of the brain and
spinal cord. Presents various forms of plasticity from regeneration to neuronal
transplantation. Topics include dynamic instability, addiction, depression,
hibernation, spinal injury, and Alzheimer’s disease. Covers the role of
neurotransmitters and growth factors in regulating brain plasticity. Stresses interactions
between neurons, astroglial cells, and other nonneuronal cells. Summarizes
animal and human studies of functional and structural recovery.
Laboratory in Molecular Biology I, II, III, IV G23.1122,
1123, 1124, 1125 Corequisites:
biochemistry and permission of the instructor. Must be taken in sequence.
Laboratory. Kirov, Rushlow. 4 points.
Analyzes selective developmental systems using recombinant
DNA techniques. Purification of nucleic acids from eukaryotes and prokaryotes;
bacteria transformation; restriction enzyme analysis; immobilization of nucleic
acids on nitrocellulose membrane; and DNA-DNA, DNA-RNA hybridization.
Advanced Genetics
G23.1126
Prerequisites: V23.0030 or equivalent, and for students not enrolled in
Ph.D. program in biology, permission of the instructor. 4 points.
In-depth study of experimental genetics from Mendel to the
present, emphasizing methods and logic of the genetic approach to biological
research. Covers classical experiments on inheritance, chromosomes and genetic
linkage, genetic variability, mutagenesis, DNA, and the nature of the genetic
code. Special topics from both classic and recent literature include (but are
not limited to) genetic screens, epistasis analysis, suppressors/enhancers, and
mosaic analysis.
Bioinformatics and Genomes
G23.1127 Prerequisites: calculus I and II,
demonstrated interest in computation, and permission of the instructor.
Bonneau. 4 points.
The recent explosion in the availability of genome-wide data
such as whole genome sequences and microarray data led to a vast increase in
bioinformatics research and tool development. Bioinformatics is becoming a
cornerstone for modern biology, especially in fields such as genomics. It is
thus crucial to understand the basic ideas and to learn fundamental
bioinformatics techniques. The emphasis of this course is on developing not
only an understanding of existing tools but also the programming and statistics
skills that allow students to solve new problems in a creative way.
Genomics
G23.1128
Prerequisites: V23.0021-0022. Lecture. Piano. 4 points.
Introduction to genomic methods for acquiring and analyzing
genomic DNA sequence. Topics: genomic approaches to determining gene function,
including determining genome-wide expression patterns; the use of genomics for
disease-gene discovery and epidemiology; the emerging fields of comparative
genomics and proteomics; and applications of genomics to the pharmaceutical and
agbiotech sectors. Throughout the course, the computational methods for
analysis of genomic data is stressed.
Evolutionary Genetics and Genomics
G23.1129 Prerequisites: V23.0030, G23.1069, and
permission of the instructor. Lecture. Borowsky. 4 points.
The genetic and genomic mechanisms underlying evolutionary
change, including the genetics of adaptation and character regression;
evolution of complex characters and traits such as organ systems, the senses,
and patterns of behavior; methods for the study of quantitative trait locus
(QTL) variation and multifactorial systems.
Applied Genomics: Introduction to Bioinformatics and Network
Modeling
G23.1130 Prerequisite:
permission of the instructors. Lecture. Birnbaum, Siegal. 4 points.
This course introduces fundamental methods of analyzing
large data sets from genomics experiments. Through a combination of lectures,
hands-on computational training, and in-depth discussions of current scientific
papers, students learn the conceptual foundations of basic analytical methods,
the computational skills to implement these methods, and the reasoning skills
to read critically the primary literature in genomics. Analysis focuses on data
from genome-wide studies of gene expression using microarrays and from
genome-wide studies of molecular interactions. Methods covered include
clustering, multiple-hypothesis testing, and network inference. A large part of
the course is dedicated to students completing an individual project that is
tailored to meet their background and training.
Mathematics in Medicine and Biology
G23.1501 Identical to V63.0030. Prerequisite: one
semester of calculus or permission of the instructor. Peskin, Tranchina. 4
points.
Discussion of topics of medical importance using mathematics
as a tool: control of the heart, optimal principles in the lung, cell
membranes, electrophysiology, countercurrent exchange in the kidney, acid-base
balance, muscle, cardiac catheterization; computer diagnosis. Material from the
physical sciences and mathematics is introduced and developed.
Computers in Medicine and Biology
G23.1502 Identical to V63.0032. Prerequisite: G23.1501
or permission of the instructor. Recommended: familiarity with a programming
language such as FORTRAN or BASIC. Peskin, Tranchina. 4 points.
Introduces students of biology or mathematics to the use of
computers as tools for modeling physiological phenomena. Each student
constructs two computer models selected from the following: circulation, gas
exchange in the lung, control of cell volume, and the renal countercurrent
mechanism.
Bio Core 3: Molecules and Cells G23.2003 Open to Ph.D. students only. M.S. students
may enroll only with authorization of the instructor. Prerequisite:
G23.1001.
Discussion-based course. 4 points.
This intensive team-taught course complements the lecture
course Bio Core 1 by providing in-depth discussions of modern papers on topics
related to those addressed in Bio Core 1, i.e., molecular and cellular biology
from molecular structure and function of proteins/nucleic acids to cell
division and apoptosis. These discussions are led by the same faculty who teach
the corresponding lectures in Bio Core 1 and who have deep expertise in each
area. This course is part of the suite of courses Bio Core 1-4.
Bio Core 4: Genes, Systems, and Evolution G23.2004 Open to Ph.D. students only. M.S. students
may enroll only with authorization of the instructor. Prerequisite:
G23.1002.
Discussion-based course. 4 points.
This intensive team-taught course complements the lecture
course Bio Core 2 by providing in-depth discussions of modern papers on topics
related to those addressed in Bio Core 2, i.e., genetics, systematics,
genomics, systems biology, development, plants, immunology, neurobiology,
evolution, and geobiology. These discussions are led by the same faculty who
teach the corresponding lectures in Bio Core 2 and who have deep expertise in
each area. This course is part of the suite of courses Bio Core 1-4.
Structure-Function Relationships in Cellular Macromolecules
G23.2017 Prerequisites: college-level
molecular and cell biology or biochemistry, physics, general chemistry, and
organic chemistry. Lecture. Broyde. 4 points.
Cellular macromolecules, particularly nucleic acids and
proteins, are the key molecules that provide cells with functional diversity.
The nucleic acids DNA and RNA act as the informational storage and transmission
molecules of cells, while proteins execute and regulate most cellular
activities and provide crucial structural elements. The tools of the biochemist
and molecular biologist have provided scientists with unprecedented structural
detail of these macromolecules, so much so that an understanding of the
critical relationships between macromolecular structure and macromolecular
function can now be made. This course emphasizes key structure-function
relationships for DNA, RNA, and proteins. The detailed structures of these
molecules are examined; important methods and tools used to elucidate their
structural elements are described; and the relationship between microstructure
and function are emphasized.
DNA Replication, Damage, and Repair
G23.2018 Identical to G16.2324 and G48.2018.
Prerequisite: biochemistry. Tang. 4 points.
The basic processes involved in DNA replication, damage
formation, and processing, with an emphasis on eukaryotic cells. Topics include
DNA structure and the chemistry of adduct formation, DNA polymerase structure
and function, DNA replication mechanisms and fidelity, the enzymology
of DNA repair, and mechanisms of mutagenesis.
Infectious Disease Pathogenesis
G23.2020 Prerequisites: V23.0050 or G23.1011 or
G16.2306 or equivalent, and G23.1027 or equivalent. Seminar. Reiss. 4 points.
Examines critical issues in the interaction of viruses,
bacteria, fungi, and other organisms with mammalian hosts that result in
infectious diseases. Focuses on the underlying mechanisms of the evasion of
normal pathways.
Statistics in Biology
G23.2030 Prerequisites: college algebra and/or
calculus. Lecture and laboratory. Tranchina. 4 points.
Advanced course on techniques of statistical analysis and
experimental design that are useful in research and in the interpretation of
biology literature. Principles of statistical inference, the design of
experiments, and analysis of data are taught using examples drawn from the
literature. Covers the use of common parametric and nonparametric distributions
for the description of data and the testing of hypotheses.
Molecular and Genetic Toxicology
G23.2040 Identical to G48.2040. Prerequisite:
biochemistry. Klein. 4 points.
Analyzes the modes by which organisms handle damage to DNA
by physical and chemical agents, the mechanisms of converting
damage to mutations, and the theoretical basis for carcinogenesis screening
methods utilizing mutagenesis. Topics include systems for mutagenesis testing,
mutational spectra, and inducible responses to DNA damage.
Fundamentals of Developmental Genetics I, II
G23.2130,
2131 Open only to Ph.D. students in
biology or at Sackler. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. Lecture and
laboratory. Staff. 4 points per term.
Explores fundamental questions, concepts, and methodologies
of modern inquiry into the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of development
through lectures, readings in the primary literature, and laboratory work.
Topics include embryonic axis determination, region-specific gene expression,
cell specification through cell-cell interaction, gastrulation, and
organogenesis.
Vertebrate Physiology
G23.2219 Prerequisites: college courses in vertebrate
anatomy and physiology. Recommended: biochemistry. 4 points.
Regulation of water balance, circulation, reproduction, and
respiration, with emphasis on neuroendocrine control mechanisms.
Developmental Neurobiology
G23.2221 Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
Lecture. Desplan. 4 points.
Recent advances in genetic model systems as well as the
development of new tools in vertebrate embryology have allowed much insight
into the development of the central nervous system (CNS). This course focuses
on the development of well-studied central nervous systems through a comparison
of invertebrate and vertebrate species. It provides an in-depth description of
the molecular and cellular mechanisms that pattern the CNS. Topics include cell
specification, synapse formation, and use-dependent plasticity.
Endocrine Physiology
G23.2247 Prerequisites: college courses in vertebrate
anatomy, embryology, and physiology, or equivalents. Scott. 4 points.
Analyzes the regulatory mechanisms for the synthesis and
secretion of the principal vertebrate hormones. Studies the hormonal control of
major physiological systems, with emphasis on the physiological aspects of the
endocrines.
Plant Systematics
G23.2269
Prerequisite: G23.1072 or equivalent, or permission of the instructor.
Lecture, laboratory, and fieldwork. Stevenson. 4 points.
Intensive course providing a background for the recognition
of the principal angiosperm families. Although plant families are presented in
this course within the context of a current phylogenetic scheme, the
orientation is toward applied systematics, i.e., emphasis is on identification
rather than on evolutionary relationships. Illustrated lectures, selected
readings, laboratory demonstrations, floral dissections, keying sessions (both
manual and computer assisted), and herbarium specimens introduce the salient
features of each family. A basic knowledge of plant systematics is essential to
students of plant resources.
Introduction to Biostatistics
G23.2303 Identical to G48.2303. 4 points.
Introduction to probability and statistical methods utilized
in the analysis and interpretation of experimental and epidemiologic data.
Statistical techniques associated with the normal, binomial, Poisson, t, F, and
chi-squared distributions, plus an introduction to nonparametric methods.
Applications in biology, medicine, and the health sciences.
Principles of Toxicology I
G23.2310 Identical to G48.2310. Prerequisites:
biochemistry and cell biology, or permission of the instructor. Chen. 4 points.
Broad introduction to the science of toxicology, stressing
basic concepts essential to the understanding of the action of exogenous
chemical agents on biological systems. Principles underlying the absorption,
metabolism, and elimination of chemicals are discussed. Toxicokinetics,
specific classes of toxic responses, and experimental methods used to assess
toxicity are reviewed.
Special Topics in Math Biology
G23.2851, 2852 Identical to G63.2851, 2852.
Recent topics: viruses and procaryotes, mathematical
immunology, molecular modeling, genome analysis, computational genomics,
neuronal networks.
Special Topics in Mathematical Physiology
G23.2855,
2856 Identical to G63.2855, 2856. 3
points per term.
Topics include mathematical aspects of neurophysiology,
hearing, and vision; mathematical aspects of heart physiology and biofluid
dynamics. The appropriate mathematical tools are developed as necessary.
The Art of Scientific Investigation
G23.3001 Required course for all biology students
entering the Ph.D. program. Blau. 2 points.
This course in the ethics and communication of scientific
research is designed to complement the more information-based courses offered
by the Depart-ment of Biology and equips Ph.D. students with the necessary
skills to conduct research ethically and to be aware of the ethical and
societal implications of their research. The course also trains students in effective
scientific communication through paper writing and presenting research to
specialist and nonspecialist audiences and in fellowship and grant writing.
Molecular Neural Science Journal Club
G23.3008 May be repeated for credit with permission of
the instructor. Seminar. Azmitia. 2 points.
Students critically discuss selected papers from current
neural science literature.
Immunology Journal Club
G23.3013 May be repeated for credit with permission of
the instructor. Seminar. Reiss. 2 points
Students critically discuss selected papers from current
immunology literature.
Predoctoral Colloquium: Graduate Student Seminar
G23.3015 Open only to Ph.D. students.
Seminar. 2 points.
Students gain experience in the preparation and presentation
of formal scientific seminars.
Advanced Topics in Cell Biology
G23.3016 May be repeated for credit with permission of
the instructor. Seminar. 2 points.
Students critically discuss selected papers from current
cell biology literature.
Special Topics in Developmental Biology
G23.3017 May be repeated for credit with permission of
the instructor. Seminar. Small. 2 points.
Students critically discuss selected papers from current
developmental biology literature.
Molecular Evolution Journal Club
G23.3018 May be repeated for credit with permission of
the instructor. Seminar. Fitch. 2 points.
Students critically discuss selected papers from current
molecular evolution literature.
Current Topics in Genetics
G23.3020 May be repeated for credit with permission of
the instructor. Seminar. Rushlow. 2 points.
Students critically discuss recent papers in genetics with
emphasis on new discoveries that affect human health.
Predoctoral Colloquium: Laboratory Rotation
G23.3034-3035 Open only to Ph.D.
students. Two-semester course required of all first-year Ph.D. students.
Lecture and laboratory. 2 and 4 points, respectively.
First term: Students attend orientation sessions with
individual faculty to discuss current departmental research. Second term: Each
student arranges to complete three projects (six to eight weeks in duration),
each under the supervision of a different faculty member, in the department’s
laboratories.
Research
G23.3303, 3304
Prerequisite: permission of the sponsor. 1-6 points per term.
Individual research projects carried out under the
supervision of the faculty.
Reading Course in Biology
G23.3305, 3306 Prerequisite: permission of the sponsor. 1-6
points per term.
Reading
and analysis of selected literature in a specific area of biology under the
supervision of the faculty. Gives students intensive coverage of material that
is appropriate for their individual research needs.
Thesis Preparation
G23.3307, 3308 Prerequisite: permission of the sponsor. 1-6
points per term.
