S offered fall and spring semesters
Y offered at least once every academic year (fall or spring semester)
E offered when the fall semester occurs in an even year (e.g., 2002-2003)
O offered when the fall semester occurs in an odd year (e.g., 2001-2002 or 2003-2004)
SI offered upon sufficient student interest
IR offered irregularly
SS offered during summer session

BIOL 106 - (3) (Y)
Principles of Nutrition
Topics include the chemical composition of the body; the molecular structure and function of different kinds of nutrients required by humans; the metabolic processes that transform food into energy and the chemical blocks for the creation and renewal of cellular structures; and the basic scientific principle of energy balance that determines weight gain or loss as governed by diet and exercise.

BIOL 115 - (3) (Y)
Natural History for Teachers
This course is a hands-on and experiment-based introduction to the ecology and evolution of the organisms of Central Virginia. It is designed for students planning to be elementary school teachers, but is open to all non-majors. The class meets for about 5 hours a week, with two 1-hour lectures and a one 3-hour lab.

BIOL 121 - (3) (Y)
Human Biology and Disease
Introduces basic biological principles as illustrated in the human organism. Emphasizes the disruption of normal functions by disease either inherited or acquired.

BIOL 149 - (3) (Y)
Survival Biology for the New Millennium
Biological/Biomedical research has advanced to the extent that everyone's lives are likely to be deeply affected. Bio 149 will introduce a select set of new technologies and concepts such as genetically modified organisms, cloning animals including humans, stem cells and the human genome. No science background required.

Biology courses number from 201 - 204 are intended for premed students and for Biology Majors who have not earned AP credit in previous biology courses. The lecture courses, BIOL 201 and 202 are required for the Biology Major, but do not count towards upper-level course requirements. The laboratory courses, BIOL 203 and 204 are not specifically required for the major, but they, or their high school equivalents, are prerequisites for some upper level courses. These courses and BIOL 206, 206L, 207, and 207L have no prerequisites.

BIOL 201, 202 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Biology
Intensive introduction to modern biology designed for natural science majors. Biological structure and function at various levels of organization, cell biology, genetics, development and evolution are covered. These courses are required for all biology majors and are prerequisites for most upper-level biology courses. Lectures and recitation/review.

BIOL 203, 204 - (2) (Y)
Introduction to Biology Laboratory
Corequisite: May be taken independently, or in conjunction with BIOL 201, 202
BIOL 203: Laboratory exercises in introductory biology to illustrate experimental techniques and strategies used to elucidate biological concepts.
BIOL 204: Studies life forms, from simple to complex organization, demonstrating the unique properties of living organisms.

BIOL 206 - (3) (Y)
Human Physiology and Anatomy I
Includes basic information regarding the chemistry and organization of living matter needed to understand cellular, tissue, and organ function. The morphology and physiological functions of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and neurosensory organ systems will also be covered. Designed as a basic course for students in the allied health sciences.

BIOL 206L - (1) (Y)
Human Physiology and Anatomy I Laboratory
Optional laboratory class to accompany BIOL 206. Includes simple anatomical, physiological and chemical exercises, clinical exercises, dissections, and microscopic examination of tissues that demonstrate and supplement topics covered in the lecture.

BIOL 207 - (3) (Y)
Human Physiology and Anatomy II
Covers the morphology and physiology for the cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, endocrine, digestive, respiratory, excretory and reproductive organ systems. Designed as a basic course for students in the allied health sciences.

BIOL 207L - (1) (Y)
Human Physiology and Anatomy II Laboratory
Optional laboratory class to accompany BIOL 207. Includes simple anatomical, physiological, and chemical exercises, clinical exercises, dissections, and microscopic examination of tissues that demonstrate and supplement topics covered in the lecture.

Introduction to Biology (BIOL 201/202) or equivalent AP credit is required for all courses at the 300 and above levels. Additional prerequisites are listed with each course; the instructor may waive these if a student demonstrates an adequate level of preparedness.

BIOL 300 - (3) (Y)
Cell Biology and Biochemistry
Prerequisite: BIOL 201, CHEM 141, 142.
This course will examine fundamental principles of eukaryotic cell biology at the molecular level with particular emphasis on biochemical approaches and mechanisms. Topics will include: structure and function of the plasma membrane, transport of small molecules, ions and macromolecular complexes across membranes, protein trafficking, the cytoskeleton, signal transduction pathways, and the control of cell division and cellular proliferation. Examples of perturbations of these processes in human diseases (e.g., lysosomal disorders, hypercholesterolemia, and cancer) will be discussed throughout the course. Required for all Biology majors.

BIOL 301 - (3) (Y)
Genetics and Molecular Biology
Prerequisite: BIOL 201, 202, CHEM 141, 142.
Examines the molecular nature of genes, gene function, the inheritance of genes, and the genetic basis of traits. Major topics include Mendelian inheritance, mutation, linkage and recombination, gene regulation and interactions. Required for all Biology majors.

BIOL 302 - (3) (Y)
Evolution and Ecology
Prerequisite: BIOL 201, 202
Examines the mechanisms of evolutionary change, with an emphasis on the genetic and evolutionary principles needed to understand the diversification of life on earth. Covers the ecology of individuals and population dynamics. Major topics include the genetics and ecology of natural populations, adaptation, molecular evolution and macroevolution, and the application of evolutionary and ecological concepts to conservation biology. Required for all Biology majors.

BIOL 308 - (3) (Y)
Virology
Prerequisite: CHEM 141,142; f irst semester organic chemistry suggested, but not required.
Presents an in-depth look at the molecular biology, pathogenesis and control of animal viruses. Small pox, influenza and HIV are used as model viruses for the analysis of viral replication mechanisms, viral genetics and the evolutionary relationship between the virus and its host. Epidemiology, transmission mechanisms, patterns of disease, and the societal impact of viruses are all discussed in terms of host/virus evolution.

BIOL 309 - (4) (Y)
Biology of Infectious Disease
Emphasis is on the principles that govern disease biology, using examples from humans, plants and animals. Topics include: diversity and types of pathogens; mechanisms of transmission, pathogenicity, and resistance; epidemiology, population regulation, and extinction; disease origins; intracellular pathogens; disease and the evolution of genetic systems; and disease in biological control and conservation.

BIOL 312 - (3) (Y)
Fundamentals of Microbiology
Prerequisite: CHEM 141,142.
Explores molecular and evolutionary aspects of the structure and function of microbes. Equal emphasis is given to environmental and medical microbiology. Topics include microbial structure, diversity, metabolism, genetics, biogeochemical cycling, microbial ecology, epidemiology, medically important organisms and evolutionary adaptation. Important current event topics such as biofilms, genetically engineered microbes and ethics are also presented.

BIOL 314 - (3) (E)
Biology of Aging
This interdisciplinary course will explore our current knowledge of the biology of aging in populations of plants and animals, including humans. Topics include demographic trends across species; analysis of why organisms age in the context of evolutionary theories; analysis of how organisms age in the context of cellular and physiological theories; and the genetic basis of longevity.

BIOL 315 - (3) (Y)
Microbiology Laboratory
An introduction to microorganisms and to basic microbiological principles through laboratory experimentation. Emphasis is on the structure, physiology and genetics of bacteria and bacterial viruses.

BIOL 317 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Neurobiology
Analyzes the concepts of general neurobiology, including basic electrophysiology and electrochemistry, origin of bioelectric potentials, sensory, motor, integrative and developmental neurobiology, and conceptual models of simple learning.

BIOL 318 - (3) (Y)
Introductory Botany
Examines basic principles of plant structure, development, classification, and physiology.

BIOL 321 - (3) (S)
Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology Laboratory
Course Pre-requisites: CHEM 141-142 or equivalent; BIOL201 (pre-requisite) or BIOL300 (co-requisite). AP credit for      BIOL201 is not sufficient.
Weekly lecture and laboratory to introduce students to the fundamental techniques of cell, molecular, and developmental biology. Through a series of laboratory investigations, students will acquire basic training in cell culture, cell fractionation, microscopy, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, chromatography, and immunological methods. Contemporary molecular methods utilizing recombinant DNA and PCR will be included. Written laboratory reports will provide experience in scientific communication. This course serves as a 300-level lab credit for Biology majors.

BIOL 322 - (3) (S)
Genetics, Evolution and Behavior Laboratory
Course Pre-requisites: BIOL 201 and BIOL 202
Students apply contemporary laboratory methods, analytic tools, and experimental approaches in a series of investigations that explore important, basic concepts in the fields of genetics, evolution and behavior. This course serves as 300-level lab credit for Biology majors.

BIOL 323 - (3) (Y)
Animal Physiology
Focuses on selected vertebrate organ systems; considers other systems where relevant.

BIOL 324 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Immunology
Studies the genetics and cell biology of the vertebrate immune system, with a focus on adaptive immunity. Classic and current experimental systems are emphasized.

BIOL 325 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Animal Behavior
Studies the comparative aspects of animal behavior from a neuro-ethological approach; and the mechanisms employed in generating and guiding behavior.

BIOL 328 - (3) (Y)
Ornithology
This course is an introduction to avian biology. Major topics include evolutionary history, genetics, anatomy and physiology, behavior and communication, reproduction and development, and ecology and conservation. Through the study of birds, the most diverse lineage of terrestrial vertebrates, students learn broadly applicable concepts of organismal biology and gain insight to the scientific investigation of integrated biological systems.

BIOL 340 - (4) (Y)
Functional Morphology of Vertebrates
Comparative investigations of functional morphology across major vertebrate lineages. Lectures are organized into three units; 1) evolutionary history and patterns of development, 2) integumentary, skeletal and muscular systems, and 3) sensory systems, and neural and endocrine integration. Topics of investigation focus on biomechanical and
physiological performance of biological structures, from cells to organ systems, and on the origins and diversification of form-function complexes among vertebrates. Lab exercises include dissections, observation of prepared specimens and other material, and modeling/simulation of biomechanical systems. This course serves as a 300-level lab requirement for either the B.A. or B.S. in biology.

BIOL 345 - (3) (Y)
Biodiversity and Conservation
Introduction to the fundamental principles of conservation biology (e.g., global species numbers, value of biodiversity, causes of extinction, genetic diversity, island biogeography, priority setting) and current topics of debate (including zoo versus field conservation, effects of global change on species extinction). Conservation case studies will allow students to judge the relevance of biological theory to practical problems in conservation.

BIOL 350 - (1-3) (SS)
Field Biology
Prerequisite: BIOL 204 or similar lab; instructor permission.
Application of field techniques for biological studies.

BIOL 385, 386 - (1-3) (SI)
Selected Topics in Biology
Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Tutorial or seminar course that allows intensive study of the literature in a particular area of biology under the guidance of a Biology faculty member.

BIOL 395 - (3) (S)
Recent Advances in Biology
Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Consists of weekly lecture/discussion sessions on recent advances in biology as reported through articles in the current literature and in research seminars presented within the University. Required for DMP students.

All lecture courses at the 400 level and above, have the prerequisite of at least one of the three core courses (300-302). All laboratory courses have a prerequisite of some 300-level lab; unless a specific prerequisite lab is specified, any 300-level lab will satisfy this prerequisite.

BIOL 400 - (3) (Y)
Laboratory in Molecular Biology
Prerequisite: BIOL 320.
Laboratory introduction to fundamental molecular techniques used in many biological research laboratories. Includes basic aseptic technique, isolation and manipulation of genetic material, electrophoresis, cloning, gene library construction/screening, Southern blot analysis, and PCR techniques. Lecture and open laboratory.

BIOL 401 - (3) (Y)
Macroevolution
Prerequisite: BIOL 301.
Survey of new problems and approaches to large-scale (above the species level) ecological and evolutionary patterns. The course will emphasize modern conceptual issues and methodological advances. Laboratory work will involve computer applications in systematics and statistics.

BIOL 402 - (4) (E)
Ecology and Evolutionary Genetics
Prerequisite: BIOL 302.
Examines the mechanisms of evolution within populations, molecular evolution, and the process of speciation. Topics include genetics of adaptation and speciation, natural selection, and the processes influencing the evolution of genes and genomes at the molecular level.

BIOL 403 - (3) (O)
Evolutionary Biology Laboratory
Prerequisite: MATH 131.
Analyzes important concepts in evolution, and experimental techniques used in evolutionary ecology and population genetics'field research, experimental populations, molecular markers, phylogenetic reconstruction'including aspects of experimental design and statistical analysis of data. Includes a weekend field trip to Mountain Lake Biological Station.

BIOL 404 - (3) (Y)
Laboratory in Cell Biology
Prerequisite: BIOL 321.
Introduces the theory and practice of important laboratory techniques used in cell biology research. Studies techniques such as microscopy, electrophoresis, and cell culture. One laboratory lecture and one afternoon laboratory per week.

BIOL 405 - (3) (Y)
Developmental Biology
Prerequisite: BIOL 301.
Explores the processes of embryonic development in plants and animals, emphasizing the experimental basis of contemporary knowledge in embryo-genesis, morphogenesis and in cell and tissue differentiation. Lecture and occasional evening discussions.

BIOL 407 - (3) (Y)
Developmental Biology Laboratory
Prerequisite BIOL 321 or Permission of Instructor.
This course offers laboratory experience illustrating a number of principles and processes in the early development of both plants and animals. Laboratory work includes the use of basic microscopy and imaging techniques to study embryonic processes such as fertilization, oogenesis, gastrulation, and tissue interactions. Students will learn basic molecular techniques used to study gene expression and patterning in the embryo. Students will also develop skills in observation, experimental design, and data presentation.

BIOL 408 - (3) (Y)
Neuronal Organization of Behavior
Prerequisite: BIOL 317 or equivalent.
Lectures and discussions addressing behavior and sensory processing from the perspective of the neural elements involved. Topics include neuronal substrates (anatomical and physiological) of startle reflexes, locomotory behaviors, visual and auditory processing, echolocation mechanisms, calling song recognition, and the neuronal organization underlying some types of functional plasticity.

BIOL 411 - (3) (Y)
Genetics Laboratory
A research experience in developmental genetics that uses Drosophila melanogaster as a model system.

BIOL 413 - (3) (O)
Population Ecology and Conservation Biology
Prerequisite: Calculus; BIOL 302 or EVSC 320.
The natural history and mathematical theory of population dynamics, species interactions and life history evolution. Lectures emphasize theory and experimental tests; class discussions focuses on applications to conservation of plant and animal populations.

BIOL 416 (3) (Y)
Functional Genomics
Prerequisite: BIOL301
The first half of the course serves as an introduction to basic bioinformatics and genomics. The second half of the
course concentrates on the rapidly evolving discipline of Functional Genomics, which takes advantage of the dramatic
increase in the amount of known genome sequences to address biological questions at a genome-wide level. Areas of
Functional Genomics that will be covered during the lectures and computer labs of this course include RNA profiling, proteomics, and systems biology. Recent articles from the scientific literature will be used to illustrate these topics. This course includes lectures, computer labs, and literature discussions.

BIOL 417 - (3) (Y)
Cellular Neurobiology
Prerequisite: BIOL 317 or equivalent; BIOL 300.
Explores a cellular approach to the study of the nervous system. Topics include the structure and function of ionic channels in cell membranes; the electrochemical basis of the cell resting potential; the generation and conduction of nerve impulses; and synaptic transmissions. Three lecture and demonstration/discussion hours. Class meetings include lectures, discussion, student presentations, and computer simulations of neurophysiology with NeuroDynamix.

BIOL 419 - (3) (O)
Biological Clocks
Prerequisite: BIOL 300 and 301.
Introduces biological timekeeping as used by organisms for controlling diverse processes, including sleep-wakefulness cycles, photoperiodic induction and regression, locomotor rhythmicity, eclosion rhythmicity, and the use of the biological clock in orientation and navigation.

BIOL 425 - (3) (Y)
Human Genetics
Prerequisite: BIOL 301.
Focuses on the fundamental knowledge about organization, expression, and inheritance of the human genome. Reviews classical Mendelian genetics and human genetic (pedigree) analysis. Emphasizes understanding human genetics in molecular terms. Includes gene mapping procedures, methodologies for identifying genes responsible for inherited diseases, the molecular basis of several mutant (diseased) states, the human genome project, and discussions about genetic screening and gene therapy.

BIOL 426 - (3) (Y)
Cellular Mechanisms
Prerequisite: BIOL 300 and BIOL 301.
Includes basic information about important issues in cell biology coupled with critical analysis of pertinent scientific literature. Integrates basic scientific findings with clinical situations, emphasizing the importance of basic research in understanding and combating disease.

BIOL 427 - (3) (Y)
Animal Behavior Laboratory
Prerequisite: BIOL 325 recommended.
Provides direct experience in approaches used to study animal behavior. Each lab concentrates on a particular aspect of behavior. Student experiments relate to central nervous systems; sensory perception; sign stimuli, feeding behavior; social behavior; reproductive behavior; biological timing; and animal observation in the laboratory and field.

BIOL 430 - (3) (Y)
Management of Forest Ecosystems
Prerequisite: BIOL 302 or EVSC 320 or Instructor Permission.
Studies processes in forest ecosystems which effect management decisions. Emphasizes the interactions between the physiological processes of plants and system-level functions such as the cycling of nutrients and the flow of energy and water. Examples of current and projected uses of forest systems are discussed throughout, including harvesting for fiber and energy, and the preservation of forests as water purification and air pollution control systems. Cross-listed with EVSC 430.

BIOL 431 - (3) (Y)
Sensory Neurobiology
Prerequisite: BIOL 317
Examines the anatomy, physiology, and molecular biology of many sensory modalities such as vision, audition, such chemosensation. General features of sensory systems are described.

BIOL 433 - (3) (Y)
Wiring the Brain
Prerequisites: BIOL 300 and BIOL 301; BIOL 317 or Psych 220.
This course will cover the current state of knowledge for how neurons form connections in the brain. The course will initially focus on how relatively simple model systems have provided the critical clues as to how specific synaptic connections form. This will be followed by a discussion of how this knowledge can be applied to the understanding and treatment of human neural disorders. About a quarter of the course will be standard lectures and the remainder student-led discussion of primary literature.

BIOL 441 - (3) (IR)
Recent Advances in Molecular Biology and Genetics
Prerequisite: BIOL 300 and 301.
A survey of contemporary issues in molecular biology and genetics. The course will be a combination of text-based lectures and discussions of the current literature emphasizing the development of critical reading techniques. This course is meant for advanced undergraduate and graduate students. Background material will be from Molecular Biology of the Gene, 5th ed, Watson et al, Pearson/Benj Cummings, More recent material will be from current literature.

BIOL 448 - (3) (Y)
Structure and Function of Complex Macromolecules
Prerequisite: BIOL 300, Biochemistry or two semesters of organic chemistry.
Exploration, in depth, of principles underlying protein and nucleic acid structures and the techniques used to determine those structures.

BIOL 481, 482 - (1) (S)
Seminar in Biological Research
Prerequisite: Fourth-year DMP in Biology.
One-hour, weekly discussions on recent advances in biology, as well as more practical matters, such as how to write grant applications, make seminar presentations, apply to graduate programs, and other skills essential to professional success in biology.

BIOL 485 - (2) (Y)
Seminar in Environmental and Conservation Biology
Prerequisite: Biol 302 or EVSC 320 and a course in conservation Biology (BIOL 345 or BIOL 413 or EVSC 322).
In-depth investigation of current research and practice in environmental and biological conservation. Format will include the discussion of fundamental and recent readings in conservation and guest speakers from the local scientific and conservation communities.

BIOL 491, 492 - (3) (S)
Independent Research
Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Independent research for qualified undergraduates under the direction of a faculty member. Nine laboratory hours.

BIOL 493, 494 - (3) (S)
Independent Research
Prerequisite: BIOL 491 and BIOL 492.
Independent research under the guidance of a departmental faculty member. Students who have completed BIOL 491, 492 may enroll in BIOL 493, 494 as a 'second year' of independent research. Nine laboratory hours.

BIOL 495, 496 - (3) (S)
Independent Research
Prerequisite: DMP students and instructor permission.
Independent research for qualified undergraduates under the direction of a faculty member. Nine laboratory hours.

BIOL 497, 498 - (3) (S)
Independent Research
Prerequisite: BIOL 495, 496; DMP students.
Independent research under the guidance of a departmental faculty member. Students who have completed BIOL 495, 496 may enroll for BIOL 497, 498 as a 'second year' of independent research. Nine laboratory hours.

BIOL 501 - (4) (Y)
Biochemistry
Prerequisite: BIOL 300; organic chemistry.
Structure and function of the major constituents of cells'proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates'and the relationship to cellular metabolism and self-replication. Lectures and discussion.

BIOL 507- (3) (Y)
Practical Aspects of Light Microscopy in the Biological Sciences
Prerequisite: BIOL 300 or Instructor permission
Practical usage of various microscopy imaging methodologies to study the morphology and cellular function in various biological systems from single cell to single molecule in cells and tissues. Topics include basics theory of microscopy, imaging and image analysis to solve various biological questions, fluorophore labeling, technical and hands on training on various microscopy techniques applied in different biological and biomedical investigations. Lectures, discussion, student presentations and laboratory.

BIOL 508 - (4) (Y)
Developmental Mechanisms
Prerequisite: BIOL 301.
Analyzes the cellular and molecular basis of developmental phenomena, reviewing both classical foundations and recent discoveries. Lectures focus on the major developmental systems used for analysis of embryogenesis (e.g., mouse, frog, and fly) and concentrate on several themes that pervade modern research in this area (e.g., signal transduction mechanisms). Readings are from the primary research literature, supplemented by textbook assignments. Lectures and discussion.

BIOL 509 - (2) (SI)
Current Topics in Plant Molecular Biology
Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Discussion of current literature and selected topics on the biochemical and molecular genetic basis for plant cellular growth and differentiation. Weekly readings and student presentations.

BIOL 512 - (3) (IR)
Comparative Biochemistry
Prerequisite: Organic chemistry; BIOL 501; instructor permission.
Examines the biochemical adaptations that have arisen in organisms in response to physiological demands. Topics are drawn from recent advances made in elucidating molecular mechanisms of metabolic regulation.

BIOL 541 - (4) (IR)
Molecular Biology and Genetics
Prerequisite: BIOL 300 and 301.
Examines the structure and regulation of prokaryotic, eukaryotic and viral genes at the molecular level. Emphasizes experimental approaches to mechanisms of replication, transcription, RNA processing and translation, and current advances in genetic research.