Biology & Biotechnology
Undergraduate Courses
BB 1001. Introduction to Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course is designed for students seeking a broad overview of biologic concepts, especially at the cell and organism level. It is conducted in an active style including the use of case studies, class discussion/participation, and classroom polling systems. The major goal of this course is to help students become more informed citizens, skeptical when presented with data in the media, and knowledgeable enough to question and make informed decisions about scientific advances and science policy. It will primarily focus on current topics which may include genetic engineering, viruses and vaccines, antibiotic resistant bacteria, the evolution of infectious diseases. This course is intended for non-life science majors.
Recommended Background: High school biology
BB 1002. Environmental Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course is designed for students seeking a broad overview of ecological systems and the effect of humans on the ecosystems. It provides an introduction to natural ecosystems, population growth, and the interaction between human populations and our environment. It is conducted in an active style including the use of case studies, class discussion/participation, and classroom polling systems. The major goal of this course is to help students become more informed environmental citizens, skeptical when presented with data in the media, and knowledgeable enough to question and make informed decisions about the environment. It will primarily focus on current topics but areas of discussion likely to be covered include ecosystems, populations, biodiversity, pollution, environmental economics and climate change. This course is intended for non- life-science majors. This will not fulfill a major distribution requirement for BBT majors.
Recommended Background: High school biology
BB 1004. Human Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course is designed for students seeking an introduction to general concepts of human biology, with particular focus on human structure and function. Concepts such as homeostasis, structure/function, and regulatory systems will be introduced. Discussion of current topics related to human health, such as personalized medicine and recent advances in cancer research and autoimmune disease will be integrated throughout the course. This course is intended for non-BBT majors.Students may not receive credit for both BB 1004 and BB 1025.
Recommended Background: High school biology
BB 1101. Foundations of Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
In this foundational course, students will explore the cellular and molecular basis of life through lectures, discussion, and project work. Students will gain an understanding of how genetic information is stored and used, as well as how the structures of cells underlie their functions. There will be a focus on the application of these topics to genetic engineering and biotechnology. This course is designed for BBT majors and minors, as well as others who plan further study in topics such as cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics. Credit cannot be received for both BB 1101 and BB 1035.
Recommended Background: A solid working knowledge of biological principles such as would be learned in a rigorous high school biology course.
BB 1102. Foundations of Ecology and Environmental Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
In this foundational course, students will explore our planet's diversity of organisms and environments and the interactions among them. Lectures, discussion, and project work will address topics such as biodiversity, ecology, evolution, and animal behavior. Students will develop their communication skills and gain experience using primary literature to understand the process of biological research. This course is designed for BBT majors and minors, as well as others who plan further study in topics such as environmental biology, conservation, ecology, and evolution.Credit cannot be received for both BB 1102 and BB 1045.
Recommended Background: A solid working knowledge of biological principles such as would be learned in a rigorous high school biology course.
BB 1801. Foundations of Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course will provide a foundational experience by exposing students to how research questions are identified and addressed via biological experimentation. Importantly, the lab will also serve as a unifying experience for biology majors, providing a framework that will allow them to identify as contributing members of a scientific community. This lab will convey the breadth of biological systems from organismal to molecular scales, and the overarching principles of evolution and effects of environment on behavior. Focus areas may include how resistance to antibiotics arises, how ecosystems and organisms are adversely affected by pollution, and how experiments can be designed to identify strategies to overcome global problems. This introductory biology lab experience is intended for first-year Biology & Biotechnology majors, and anyone intending to take 3800-level biology laboratories.
Recommended Background: High school biology. No previous laboratory experience is assumed.
BB 2003. Fundamentals of Microbiology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course will introduce the basic principles of microbiology through lectures, discussion, readings, and projects. The course will explore both the fundamental biology of microbes and the ways in which microbes influence society and the world. Topics will include the morphology, physiology, and genetics of unicellular organisms with a primary focus on bacteria. Special attention will be given to organisms known to have important roles in health, research, industry, and the environment. This course is designed for life sciences majors.Students may not receive credit for both BB 2002 and BB 2003.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of concepts of cellular and molecular biology (BB 1101 or equivalent), and knowledge of chemical properties and reactions (CH 1010 and CH 1020 or equivalent).
BB 2030. Plant Diversity
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course focuses on general concepts as they relate to the vast array of plant species and their taxonomic links. Current uses of major plant phyla in both society and the biotechnology industry will be explored. Some emphasis will be given to economically important species chosen from agronomic and non-agronomic situations with examples related to society and climate change.Students may not receive credit for both BB 2030 and BB 1040 (no longer offered).
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of concepts in biodiversity (BB 1102, BB 1002, or equivalent).
BB 2040. Principles of Ecology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course is intended to help students understand ecological concepts at different levels of integration, from individuals to ecosystems, and the linkages among them. Students will also practice the application of qualitative and quantitative models to ecological systems and processes, as well as hypothesis generation, experimental design, and analysis and interpretation of data. In a format that includes team-based case studies, discussion and presentations, and ecological simulations, students will explore topics in both basic and applied ecology, which may include population ecology, host-parasite ecology and epidemiology, climate change, and sustainable agriculture, among others.
Recommended Background: Foundational knowledge of concepts in ecology and biodiversity (BB 1102 or equivalent).
BB 2050. Animal Behavior
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course will provide an introduction to the scientific study of animal behavior. A combination of lecture, reading, and video will be used to illustrate how proximate and ultimate forces interact to shape animal behavior in complex and fascinating ways. Behavioral phenomena in all members of the animal kingdom will be discussed and analyzed from ecological, evolutionary, cognitive, and neurobiological perspectives to highlight how the use of an integrative approach has greatly accelerated our ability to solve complex behavioral problems. Primary scientific literature will be used to outline experimental tools and techniques used to investigate behavior in different contexts, including communication, foraging, navigation, mate choice, predation, and social behavior.
BB 2101. Foundations of Physiology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Physiology combines some basic principles of physics, chemistry, molecular genetics, anatomy and evolution to explore the relationships among cells, tissues, organs and organ systems in the context of the whole organism. With homeostasis and regulation as unifying principles, we will examine the essential interactions between body systems that maintain proper function. This course differs from our Anatomy and Physiology sequence in its focus on the concepts that unify organismal function, using selected physiologic systems and both comparative and integrative approaches.
Recommended Background: A strong foundation in molecular and cellular biology (BB 1101 or equivalent)
BB 2550. Cell Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
The goal of this course is to help students to develop a working understanding of the unifying concepts that define cell structure and function including replication, metabolism, regulation, communication and transport. Applications in therapeutics, molecular medicine, and genetic engineering will be introduced. Classic and current research examples will provide practice in hypothesis generation and testing as well as making clear the importance of a working knowledge of cell biology to support advances in biotechnology and medicine. The course serves as the foundation of all fields of modern biology, and is recommended for all BBT and other life science majors.
Recommended Background: Foundational knowledge of cell and molecular biotechnology (BB 1101 or equivalent)
BB 2802. Enzymes, Proteins, and Purification Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course gives basic practical experimental experience in how enzymes work and how to purify proteins for later use. These techniques are foundational for the design and production of many therapeutic products. Examples of the types of techniques and experiences included in this course are: The action and optima of enzyme catalysis, induction of protein production, quantification and detection techniques for proteins, extraction and purification of proteins from biological material using column chromatography, and assessing the efficacy of a purification process.Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 2902.
Recommended Background: At least one college-level biology course.
BB 2803. Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course is an active exploration of topics in anatomy and physiology through the use of simulations, measurements, and hands-on discovery. It will be particularly relevant to any student considering a health-related career, doing work where body structure is central, or has interest in how body systems connect. A significant portion of this discovery will be accomplished by a hands-on dissection. Examples of the specific types of experiences and techniques included in this course are comparative and general anatomy of several organisms; physiology and function of body systems, processes, and organs; Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA); and microscopy.Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 2903
Recommended Background: At least one college-level biology course.
BB 2804. Ecology, Environment, and Animal Behavior Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course examines topics in ecology and animal behavior through hands on experimentation and simulation. Activities in this course include interactions and observation of live animals as well as some outdoor activities and environmental sampling. This course will be relevant to students who have an interest in biology at more than the individual organism level as well as those majors studying environmental and ecological concerns. Examples of the specific types of techniques and experience included in this course are observing, recording, understanding, and analyzing animal behaviors; handling of organisms; environmental and ecological assessment and sampling; and observations of population dynamics. Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 2904, BB 294X, or BB 292X
Recommended Background: At least one college-level biology course.
BB 2815. Microbial and Molecular Investigations Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Students in this course will be part of a national student crowd sourcing initiative, developed in response to a decreasing supply of effective antibiotics and increased microbial resistance, to identify novel antibiotics produced by soil bacteria. Operating in an authentic research paradigm, students will gain skill in the process of scientific inquiry, including hypothesis generation and testing, and in common procedures of microbial culture and characterization. They will learn about and have the opportunity to use the techniques of recombinant DNA including plasmids, restriction enzymes, and PCR. At the conclusion of the course students will report their findings in poster format and will be able to see the results of other groups around the country.Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 2915.
Recommended Background: At least one college-level biology course.
BB 2917. Hunting for Phage
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Students in this course will become part of a national crowd sourcing initiative to isolate and identify novel bacteriophage. Students will design experiments to initially isolate phage (bacterial viruses) from environmental samples they have collected, then characterize and determine their DNA sequence. The DNA sequences will be used in the follow-on bioinformatics course BB 3526 Phage Hunters: The Analysis. Students in this course will make significant contributions to the field of genomics while gaining skill in the process of scientific inquiry, including hypothesis generation and testing, and practice in common microbiologic techniques. Students enrolled in this course may wish to consider enrollment in BB 3526 (Phage Hunters: The Analysis). Students that have already received course credit for BB 29IX or BB 2916 may not also receive credit for BB 2917.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of biotechnology or microbiology (BB 1035 or BB 2003, or equivalent).
BB 2920. Genetics
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Through interactive lectures, group problem solving, and analysis of primary scientific literature, this course will help students understand the gene concept and its application in modern biological analysis. This course will cover patterns of inheritance, the relationship between genotype and phenotype, and the transmission, coding, and expression of genetic information contained in DNA in both model systems and humans. Students will gain an understanding of the modern tools of genetic analysis, including genomics, creation of transgenic organisms, CRISPR editing, and RNA interference. Applications of genetic analysis to current advancements in human health, such as gene therapy and personalized medicine, will be explored.
Recommended Background: Foundational knowledge of concepts in biology and biotechnology (BB 1101 and BB 1102 or equivalent).
BB 3003. Medical Microbiology: Plagues of the Modern World, a Case Study Approach
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course will introduce the basic principles of Medical Microbiology. It will focus on molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis of a wide range of infectious diseases and host-pathogen interactions including a survey of human immunobiology. We will explore microorganisms that are of medical relevance including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoans, enabling one to make informed decisions about appropriate medical interventions. We will evaluate how our day-to-day choices impact public health as well as alter microbial communities. This interactive course is designed for all majors who have an interest in pre-health professions or students who seek a deep understanding of infectious diseasesStudents may not receive credit for both BB 2002 Microbiology: Plagues of the Modern World and BB 3003.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of concepts in biotechnology, microbiology, and molecular biology, (BB 1101, BB 2003, and BB 3950, or equivalent).
BB 3050. Cancer Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
In this course, students will learn and apply advanced cellular and molecular biology concepts to understand causes and consequences of cancer cell transformation. Through an integration of primary literature and lecture material students will explore how research into basic mechanisms of cancer biology is used to identify therapeutic targets, and inform drug design. This course will cover discussion of the hallmarks of cancer including the deregulation of cell growth, cell death, and metabolism; corruption of genome stability, evasion of immune response, and metastatic potential.
Recommended Background: A thorough understanding of genetics (BB 2920 or equivalent), molecular biology (BB 2950 or equivalent), and cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent).
BB 3060. Animal Behavior
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course will provide an introduction to the scientific study of animal behavior. A combination of lecture, reading, and videos will be used to illustrate how proximate and ultimate forces interact to shape animal behavior in complex and fascinating ways. Behavioral phenomena in all members of the animal kingdom will be discussed and analyzed from ecological, evolutionary, cognitive, and neurobiological perspectives to highlight how the use of an integrative approach has greatly accelerated our ability to solve complex behavioral problems. Primary scientific literature will be used to outline experimental tools and techniques used to investigate behavior in different contexts, including communication, foraging, navigation, mate choice, predation, and social behavior.Students may not earn credit for both BB 2050 and BB 3060.
Recommended Background: A thorough understanding of ecology (BB 2040 Ecology or equivalent).
BB 3080. Neurobiology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
The nervous system underlies every aspect of our behavior, including sensation, movement, emotion, and cognition. In this course, students will develop an understanding of neurobiology at several levels, from the physiology of individual neurons, through the functioning of neural circuits, and finally to the behavior of neural systems such as vision, motion, and memory. The class will be based on lectures accompanied by in-class activities and will include weekly discussion of a paper from the scientific literature. Each year, the papers will focus on a guiding theme, (e.g. as neurotransmitter systems) with emphasis on research that is relevant for human health such as neurodevelopmental conditions (e.g. autism), psychiatric disorders (e.g. schizophrenia), addiction, or neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Parkinsons, ALS, Alzheimers, etc.).
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of concepts in cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent), genetics or molecular biology (BB 2920, BB 3950, or equivalent) and physiology (BB 2101 or equivalent).
BB 3101. Human Anatomy & Physiology: Movement and Communication
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
The form and function of the systems that are responsible for the support, movement, internal communication, and interaction of the human body with its environment will be presented and discussed: Integumentary, Skeletal, Muscular, Nervous (including the senses), and Endocrine.Students who have received credit for BB 2130 may not take BB 3101 for credit.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of concepts in physiology and cell biology (BB 2101 and BB 2550 or equivalent), and a working knowledge of chemical properties and reactions (CH 1010 and CH 1020 or equivalent).
BB 3102. Human Anatomy & Physiology: Transport and Maintenance
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
The form and function of the systems of the human body that provide for the intake, distribution, and processing of nutrients, water, and oxygen, and the systems that safeguard health by elimination of wastes, regulation of metabolism, and surveillance against disease will be presented and discussed. Digestive, Respiratory, Circulatory, Lymphatic, Urinary, and Reproductive.Students who have received credit for BB 3110 may not take BB 3102 for credit.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of concepts in physiology and cell biology (BB 2101 and BB 2550 or equivalent), and a working knowledge of chemical properties and reactions (CH 1010 and CH 1020 or equivalent).
BB 3120. Plant Physiology
Cat II (offered at least every other Year).
This course explores the remarkable physiology of plants and emphasizes their importance in past and future life on earth. Conserved and unique aspects of plant cellular physiology will provide the foundation to understand the challenges of life on land and multicellularity. Topics such as water relations, mineral nutrition, intra- and inter-cellular transport, photosynthesis, and light responses will be discussed. Examples from the recent literature will be used to illustrate some of the key existing problems in plant physiology. This course will be offered in 2021-22, and in alternating years thereafter. Some sections of this course may be offered as Writing Intensive (WI).
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of concepts in ecology and environmental biotechnology, physiology, and cell biology (BB 1102, BB 2030, BB 2101, and BB 2550 or equivalent) and in chemical reactions (CH 1020 or equivalent)
BB 3140. Evolution: Pattern and Process
Cat II (offered at least every other Year).
In this course, students will explore the foundations of micro- and macro-evolutionary theory and will learn to apply these fundamental evolutionary principles through critical analysis of the primary scientific literature. In a course format that emphasizes case studies, critical analysis of primary scientific literature, students will explore the evolutionary foundations of a wide range of biological disciplines, and will gain experience in critical evaluation of approaches, arguments, and points of view in the field. Topics may include the history of life on Earth; biogeography and the origins of biodiversity; host-pathogen coevolution; and genomic and molecular evolution, among others. This course will be offered in 2023-24, and in alternating years thereafter.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of the principles of ecology (BB 2040 or equivalent) and molecular biology & genetics (either or both BB 2920 and BB 3950 or equivalent).
BB 3512. Molecular Genetics Lab
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
The topic of gene therapy will be used to give students experience with several fundamental skills in biotechnological research and practice: on-line information search and retrieval, computer cloning, and biological sequence analysis and manipulation. Course is entirely computer based.
Recommended Background: a working knowledge of laboratory skills and concepts in molecular biology, microbiology and genetics (BB 2901, BB 2950, BB 2002, and BB 2920 or equivalent).
BB 3517. Fermentation
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
The experiments in this course focus on basic fermentation theory and practice, common to any bio-product production facility. Students will gain significant experience in hypothesis generation and testing as they work toward the goal of optimizing their proposed culture media.
Recommended Background: a working knowledge of laboratory techniques in molecular biology, and microbiology (BB 2901 or equivalent), and concepts in cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent).
BB 3519. Protein Purification
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This is a laboratory course focusing on the theory and practice of protein purification from a primary source. Chromatographic techniques will include two more of the most commonly used in the biotech industry.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of laboratory skills in enzyme and protein purification, and concepts in biochemistry (BB 2902 and CH 4110 or equivalent).
BB 3526. Phage Hunters: the Analysis
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
In this computer lab students will work with phage genomic sequences obtained from novel bacteriophages isolated in BB 2910, Phage Hunters: The Quest. The raw genome files will be finished and oriented; students will then search the sequence to identify and map existing genes and other genomic components (sequence annotation). Additional course goals are to do an initial comparative genomic analysis and post-annotation experimentation. The ultimate goal is to produce novel bacteriophage genome sequences that are ready to be submitted to GenBank, the US repository of DNA sequence information at the National Institute of Health. Students planning to take this course may wish to consider enrollment in BB 2916 (Phage Hunters: The Quest) Students may not receive credit for both BB 350X and BB 3526
Recommended Background: a working knowledge of genome structure and function (BB 2920, BB 2950, or equivalent).
BB 357X. CELL CULTURE MODELS FOR TISSUE REGENERATION
Cat I (1/3 unit)
This course is an intensive hands-on laboratory that explores mammalian cells as building blocks of complex tissues in vitro. In addition to learning standard cell culture skills, students will have the opportunity to examine cell survival, proliferation, differentiation and function under different culture conditions. The course culminates with design and development of a cell-based system for an application in regenerative medicine (e.g., wound healing and fibrosis). Students will synthesize and present their work in the form of a research manuscript.
Recommended background: a working knowledge of the principles of cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent) and molecular biology and/or genetics (BB 2920 or 2950 or equivalent) as well as foundational lab experience such as that offered in the BB 2900 lab sequence.
Some sections of this course may be offered as Writing Intensive (WI)
BB 3620. Developmental Biology
Cat II (offered at least every other Year).
Through interactive lectures, individual and group activities, and readings, this course will help students understand how a fertilized egg develops into a multi-cellular animal and how diversity in form develops during evolution. The course will focus on the following topics: Embryogenesis; Morphogenesis and Body Patterning; Limb Development and Regeneration; and Evolution and Development. Consequences of genetic and environmental perturbations on development in human disorders and model systems will also be covered. This course will be offered in 2023-24, and in alternating years thereafter.
Recommended Background: A strong working knowledge of concepts in both cell biology and genetics is required. (BB 2550, and BB 2920 or equivalent)
BB 3813. Animal Cell Culture Techniques Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Basic laboratory skills in mammalian cell culture including cell counting, freezing and thawing cell lines, and culture of suspension and attached cells.Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 3513.
Recommended Background: Knowledge of aseptic technique (BB 1801 or BB 2815 or equivalent) and cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent).
BB 3815. Physiologic Systems Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Exercises in this course focus on computer and wet laboratory studies of nervous, musculoskeletal, circulatory, and respiratory systems structures, functions, and physiology. Students will gain experience in hypothesis generation and testing and will be introduced to an interactive biomedical/physiological data acquisition and analysis system. Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 3515, BB 3511, or BB 3514.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of laboratory skills and concepts in anatomy and physiology (BB 2803, BB 3101, or BB 3102 or equivalent) and general biology lab practices (BB 1801 or equivalent).
BB 3821. Microscopy Laboratory
Cat II (offered at least every other Year).
Through a research-based laboratory and short lectures, students will learn the basic principles of image formation, resolution, and digital imaging. Students will develop confidence in the use of the light microscope and be able to apply different modes of microscopy to solve biological problems. This course emphasizes a quantitative approach to microscopy and digital imaging applied toward simple phenotypic analysis. Students will develop scientific writing skills and learn how to prepare professional quality images. Some sections of this course may be offered as Writing Intensive (WI).Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 3521.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of laboratory techniques in molecular biology and microbiology (BB 1801 or BB 2815 or equivalent), and concepts in cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent).
BB 3825. Plant Physiology Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Basic studies in the biochemical and physical systems plants use to sustain life; includes an introduction to plant cell culture techniques. Some sections of this course may be offered as Writing Intensive (WI).Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 3525.
Recommended Background: BB 1102, BB 2803, or equivalent. Concurrent or prior registration in BB 3120 is recommended.
BB 3827. Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Students will learn to use current techniques in molecular and genetic engineering to address authentic research questions. Students will design and execute experiments to assess hypotheses, and evaluate data relative to those hypotheses. Specific approaches may include the generation of novel plasmids, genes, and cells, designed to specifically address contemporary problems in biology and biomedical science. In each offering, the problem addressed will be selected from and the results contribute to current faculty research initiatives.Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 3527.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of the principles of molecular biology (BB 1101, BB 2920, or BB 3950 or equivalent) and cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent), as well as relevant biology laboratory experience (BB 1801, BB 2815, or equivalent).
BB 3830. Immunotherapies Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
The clinical use of monoclonal antibodies as human therapeutics represents an increasingly popular and promising application. Beginning with a hybridoma cell line and using a discovery-based approach, students in this course will explore the processes involved in the production and purification of monoclonal antibodies. Using cells in culture to produce the antibody, students will explore the efficacy and cost of a purification scheme involving separation techniques such as ion exchange and affinity chromatography to produce a purified product. Purification will be assessed using typical analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, electrophoresis, and immunological methods.Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 3530.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of laboratory skills in protein purification (BB 2802 and BB 1801, or equivalent) and concepts in cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent) and biochemistry (CH 4110 or equivalent). Some knowledge of immunology may be beneficial.
BB 3840. Design and Expression of Biomolecules Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Students will gain experience in several fundamental skills applicable to academic and industrial research and development. Producing a biologic product is of paramount interest in both basic and applied research and requires the ability to both design and produce a functional product. There are numerous potential variables that influence the amount, quality, and cost of producing these molecules. This course will explore some of those variables which allow students to design, test, and evaluate strategies for product and process optimizations. Students will learn how DNA sequences are designed, constructed, and analyzed. A model organism will be grown and induced to express a protein product using common fermentation principles and techniques. Students will evaluate efficiency of the fermentation and output of the gene product through an original research project of their design.Students may not receive credit for BB 3840 and either BB 3512 or BB 3517.
Recommended Background: Working knowledge of the principles of molecular biology (BB 1101, BB 2920, or BB 3950 or equivalent) and cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent), as well as relevant biology laboratory experience (BB 1801, BB 3827, or equivalent).
BB 3870. Cell Culture Models Laboratory
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
This course is an intensive hands-on laboratory that explores mammalian cells as building blocks of complex tissues in vitro. In addition to learning standard cell culture skills, students will have the opportunity to examine cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, and function under different culture conditions. The course culminates with design and development of a cell-based system for an application in regenerative medicine (e.g., wound healing and fibrosis). Students will synthesize and present their work in the form of a research manuscript. This course carries the writing-intensive designation. Students may not receive credit for this course and BB 3570.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of the principles of cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent) as well as a foundational lab experience such as that offered in BB 1801 and BB 3813.
BB 3920. Immunology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Through lecture, reading, and discussion, this course will help students understand the origin of immune cells in bone marrow development, the distinction between innate and adaptive immunity, and the function of the immune system in health and disease. The mechanisms responsible for the exquisite specificity of the adaptive immune system will be described. Throughout the course, the probable paths of evolution of the immune system will be stressed. As examples of major genetic diseases of immunity, case studies will be discussed on a weekly basis.
Recommended Background: A working knowledge of the concepts in cell biology, genetics and biochemistry (BB 2550, BB 2920, CH 4110 and CH 4120 or equivalent)
BB 3950. Molecular Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Through lectures, discussion, and other activities, students will learn the essential concepts of molecular biology, including the mechanisms by which genetic information is stored, replicated, and used to produce RNA and proteins. The theory behind major molecular biology laboratory techniques such as recombinant DNA technology, nucleic acid sequencing, and genetic engineering will also be covered. Basic mechanisms by which gene expression is regulated will be addressed. The themes of structure/function relationships, evolution, and intersections of molecular biology and human disease will run throughout the course. The concepts learned in this course will provide a foundation for further study and work in this rapidly expanding field. Students may not earn credit for both BB 2950 and BB 3950.
Recommended Background: A thorough understanding of genetics (BB 2920 or equivalent) and cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent) and an understanding of organic chemistry (CH 2310 or equivalent).
BB 4050. Cancer Biology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
In this course, students will learn and apply advanced cellular and molecular biology concepts to understand causes and consequences of cancer cell transformation. Through an integration of primary literature and lecture material students will explore how research into basic mechanisms of cancer biology is used to identify therapeutic targets and inform drug design. This course will cover discussion of the hallmarks of cancer including the deregulation of cell growth, cell death, and metabolism; corruption of genome stability; evasion of immune response; and metastatic potential.Students may not earn credit for both BB 3050 and BB 4050.
Recommended Background: A thorough understanding of genetics (BB 2920 or equivalent), cell biology (BB 2550 or equivalent), and molecular biology (BB 3950 or equivalent).
BB 4260. Synthetic Biology
Cat II (offered at least every other Year).
Do we yet have the technology to engineer life? Can we control gene expression to create organisms that function in useful ways? Do we understand the tenets of genetic regulation as well as we think we do? These important questions and more are investigated by the emerging field of Synthetic Biology. In this course, students will explore this exciting new realm of biology through in-depth analysis and discussion of primary literature. Topics to be covered include the design and construction of synthetic gene circuits, synthesis of new genes and genomes, logic gate regulation of gene expression, and the latest applications of synthetic biology to advances in medicine, information processing, and the environment. This course will be offered in 2022-23, and in alternating years thereafter.
Recommended Background: Students should have a strong foundational knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics, as would be obtained from BB 2550, BB 2920, and BB 2950.
BB 4900. Advanced Topics in Biology and Biotechnology
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
These classes will serve as integrative experiences for students majoring in Biology & Biotechnology. The course will help students integrate concepts from other courses in the curriculum, practice skills of critical analysis, and evaluate and communicate scientific information effectively. The specific theme of each offering will center around a current topic of biological interest, and may include such areas as genomics, cancer, environmental problems, and synthetic biology.Only one offering of BB 4900 can count toward BBT major distribution requirements, although additional offerings may be taken as free electives.
Recommended Background: Prior to enrolling in the course, a student should have completed all of the BB course distribution requirements for BBT majors at the 1000 and 2000 level, or should seek advice from the course instructor. Topics will be announced prior to registration in the year preceding the course offering.
ISU BB. Special Topics
Cat I (offered at least 1x per Year).
Experimental courses, special conferences and seminars are offered by advance arrangement only. The lab activities in these courses will provide foundational skills needed for the study of living organisms and systems at the molecular, organismal and environmental level. In these labs students will begin building the skills to carry into more advanced labs, their MQPs and professional careers. In particular students will gain experience with scientific procedures and techniques, technical equipment, teamwork, laboratory safety, hypothesis generation and testing, scientific data analysis (including statistics), oral and written scientific communication and skills common to all areas of biology.
Graduate Courses
BB 501. Seminar
.
This course will help students develop scientific communication skills through their attendance and participation in weekly research seminars. Research talks will include both external guest speakers and graduate students from the Biology and Biotechnology department, giving students an opportunity to learn by example while also honing their data presentation and communication skills through practice. Students will receive feedback from an audience of their peers and departmental faculty. Talks given by guest speakers will be paired with informal meetings between the guest and students to promote networking and broaden the students exposure to the greater scientific community. This course is a requirement for the PhD degree in Biology and Biotechnology and it is expected that both Ph.D. and M.S. students register for it each semester that they are enrolled in the program.
BB 504. Molecular Biology of the Cell
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This course will facilitate a students functional knowledge of living cells from a biological, biochemical and technological perspective. Topics covered will include the structure, organization, growth, regulation, movements, and interaction of cells, as well as details of cellular metabolism and molecular biology. Emphasis will be placed on visualizing cellular architecture, describing the structure of DNA, describing the fate of various cellular RNAs, articulating information flow in cells, and describing protein outcomes. This course is intended to achieve a homogenous level of student understanding and can be used as a foundation course for the program. This course is designed to familiarize students with basic concepts of molecular biology including structure, organization, growth, regulation, movements, and interactions within a cell. Details of metabolism and molecular biology will be covered through projects and study of the primary literature to achieve a homogenous level of student understanding and rigor. Weekly online assessments are designed to ensure understanding. Note: Students may not receive credit for BB 504 and BB 570-196.
BB 505. Fermentation Biology
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Material in this course focuses on biological (especially microbiological) systems by which materials and energy can be interconverted (e.g., waste products into useful chemicals or fuels). The processes are dealt with at the physiological and the system level, with emphasis on the means by which useful conversions can be harnessed in a biologically intelligent way. The laboratory focuses on measurements of microbial physiology and on bench-scale process design.
BB 508. Animal Cell Culture
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Animal cell culture technology is about maintaining cells in vitro under controlled conditions. In recent decades this technology has advanced significantly, and animal cells are used in variety of application both in research and product development. The students in this course will be exposed to the different methodologies utilized to grow cells and how this technology is becoming critical in production of many of the health care products used to control human diseases. The course is covers four general skills (1) Basic techniques for culturing and sub-culturing animal cells and growth parameters, (2) Quality control of a cell culture laboratory/How to control contamination, (3) Primary cell culture and development of cell lines, and (4) Scale-up of cell culture from a T-Flask to a bioreactor. Note: Students may not receive credit for BB 508 and BB 570-198
BB 509. Scale Up of Bioprocessing
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Strategies for optimization of bioprocesses for scale-up applications will be explored. In addition to the theory of scaling up unit operations in bioprocessing, students will scale up a bench-scale bioprocess (3 liters), including fermenta- tion and downstream processing to 33 liters. Specific topics include the effects of scaling up on: mass transfer and bioreactor design, harvesting techniques including tangential flow filtration and centrifugation, and chromatography (open column and HPLC).
BB 515. Environmental Change: Problems and Approaches
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This seminar course will examine what is known about ecological responses to both natural and human-mediated environmental changes, and explore approaches for solving ecological problems and increasing environmental sustainability. Areas of focus may include, and are not limited to, conservation genetics, ecological responses to global climate change, sustainable use of living natural resources, and the environmental impacts of agricultural biotechnology.
BB 526. Synthetic Biology
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Do we yet have the technology to engineer life? Can we control gene expression to create organisms that function in useful ways? Do we understand the tenets of genetic regulation as well as we think we do? These important questions and more are investigated by the emerging field of Synthetic Biology. In this course, students will explore this exciting new realm of biology through in-depth analysis and discussion of primary literature. Topics to be covered include the design and construction of synthetic gene circuits, synthesis of new genes and genomes, logic gate regulation of gene expression, and the latest applications of synthetic biology to advances in medicine, information processing, and the environment.
BB 550. Cancer Biology
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In this course, students will learn and apply advanced cellular and molecular biology concepts to understand causes and consequences of cancer cell transformation. Through an integration of primary literature and lecture material students will explore how research into basic mechanisms of cancer biology is used to identify therapeutic targets and inform drug design. This course will cover discussion of the hallmarks of cancer including the deregulation of cell growth, cell death, and metabolism; corruption of genome stability; evasion of immune response; and metastatic potential. Students may not earn credit for both BB 4050 and BB 550.
BB 551. Research Integrity in the Sciences
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Students are exposed to various issues related to integrity in doing research to enable development of an appropriately reasonable course of action in order to maintain integrity on a variety of research-related performance and reporting activities. These activities include, but are not limited to data fabrication, authorship, copyright, plagiarism, unintended dual use of technology, and responsibilities towards peers who may request your confidential review or feedback. The course will use class discussion, case studies, and exercises to facilitate an understanding of the responsibilities of scientists to their profession. Students may receive credit for either BB551 or a BB570 course entitled Research Integrity in the Sciences but not both.
BB 552. Scientific Writing and Proposal Development
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This course will cover key elements to writing successful grant proposals including identification and justification of a research question, experimental approaches, and experimental system selection. Emphasis will be placed on how significance, innovation, rigor and reproducibility of prior and proposed work help shape the broader research question being addressed and the specific aims proposed. Students will be expected to develop an NIH F31 style proposal based within the life sciences and outside their dissertation field. Interactive peer feedback will complement guidance obtained from the instructors and the students own research advisor and is a critical part of this course. Students are expected to complete this course in their second year of their thesis research, prior to their Qualifying Exam. Students may receive credit for either BB552 or a BB570 course entitled Scientific Writing and Proposal Development but not both.
BB 553. Experimental Design and Statistics in the Life Sciences
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This applied course introduces students to the basics of experimental design and data analysis. Emphasis will be placed on designing biological experiments that are suitable for statistical analysis, choosing appropriate statistical tests to perform, and interpreting the results of statistical tests. We will cover statistical methods commonly used by biologists to analyze experimental data, including testing the fit of data to theoretical distributions, comparisons of groups, and regression analysis. Both parametric and non-parametric tests will be discussed. Students will use computer packages to analyze their own experimental data. Students may receive credit for either BB553 or a BB570 course entitled Experimental Design and Statistics in the Life Sciences but not both.
BB 554. Journal Club
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This primary literature and discussion based course is designed to help graduate students further their scientific reading and interpretation skills. Topics covered typically reflect the expertise or interest of the instructor and students. Students will read, discuss, and present on the research questions, results, and interpretation of published research papers of the chosen topic. Through discussion of the strengths, limitations and controls for experimental approaches described in the selected manuscripts students will gain critical evaluation and experimental design skills that will translate to their own research projects.
BB 556. Mentored Teaching Experience
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This course is arranged with an individual faculty member within the students discipline. The graduate student is involved in the development of course materials, such as a syllabus, projects, or quizzes, and course delivery, such as lecturing or facilitating a conference session (20% delivery limit). In addition to covering course pedagogy, the faculty member arranges for the student teacher to be evaluated by students enrolled in the course and reviews the student reports with the student teacher.
BB 560. Methods of Protein Purification and Downstream Processing
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This course provides a detailed hands-on survey of state-of-the-art methods employed by the biotechnology industry for the purification of products, proteins in particular, from fermentation processes. Focus is on methods that offer the best potential for scale-up. Included is the theory of the design, as well as the operation of these methods both at the laboratory scale and scaled up. It is intended for biology, biotechnology, chemical engineering and biochemistry students.
BB 561. Model Systems: Experimental Approaches and Applications
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The course is intended to introduce students to the use of model experimental systems in modern biological research. The course covers prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems including microbial (.Escherichia coli) and single cells eukaryotes (fungi); invertebrate (Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila melanogaster) and vertebrate (mice, zebra fish) systems and plants (moss, algae and Arahidopsis thaliana). Use of these systems in basic and applied research will be examined. Students may receive credit for either BB561 or a BB570 course entitled Model Systems: Experimental Approaches and Applications but not both.
BB 562. Cell Cycle Regulation
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This course focuses on molecular events that regulate cell cycle transitions and their relevance to mammalian differentiated and undifferentiated cells. Topics include control of the Gl/S and G2/M transitions, relationships between tumor suppressor genes such as pi6, Rb, p53 or oncogenes such as cyclin D, cdc25A, MDM2 or c-myc and cell cycle control. Where appropriate, the focus is on understanding regulation of cell cycle control through transcriptional induction of gene expression, protein associations, posttranslational modifications like phosphorylation or regulation of protein stability like ubiquitin degradation. Students may receive credit for either BB562 or a BB570 course entitled Cell Cycle Regulation but not both.
BB 565. Virology
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This advanced level course uses a seminar format based on research articles to discuss current topics related to the molecular/cell biology of viral structure, function, and evolution. Particular emphasis is placed on pathological mechanisms of various human disorders, especially emerging disease, and the use of viruses in research.
BB 570. Special Topics
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This course will engage students at an advanced level in the exploration of special topics that reflect the expertise of the department faculty. Course offerings change regularly, and past iterations have included both literature-based courses such as Medical and Applied Immunology and Biostatistics and skills-based courses such as Genetic Engineering and Synthetic Biology and Practical Process Control. NOTE: Students may earn credit for multiple offerings of this course provided each offering bear distinct course descriptions and course content.'
BB 581. Bioinformatics
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This course will provide an overview of bioinformatics, covering a broad selection of the most important techniques used to analyze biological sequence and expression data. Students will acquire a working knowledge of bioinformatics applications through hands-on use of software to ask and answer biological questions. In addition, the course will provide students with an introduction to the theory behind some of the most important algorithms used to analyze sequence data (for example, alignment algorithms and the use of hidden Markov models). Topics covered will include protein and DNA sequence alignments, evolutionary analysis and phylogenetic trees, obtaining protein secondary structure from sequence, and analysis of gene expression including clustering methods. Students may not receive credit for both BB 581 and BB 4801.
BB 590. Advanced Topics in Biology and Biotechnology
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These classes will serve as integrative experiences for graduate students who are early in their doctoral training. The course will help students integrate concepts from other courses in the curriculum, practice skills of critical analysis, and evaluate and communicate scientific information effectively. The specific theme of each offering will center around a current topic of biological interest, and may include such areas as genomics, cancer, environmental problems, and synthetic biology. NOTE: Students may not earn credit for both BB 4900 and BB 590 that bear the same course description.
BB 599. Master's Thesis
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A Masters thesis in Biology and Biotechnology consists of a research and development project worth a minimum of 9 graduate credit hours advised by a faculty member in the BB Program. The student must satisfactorily complete a written dissertation, public presentation, and private defense with thesis committee.
BB 699. Ph.D. Dissertation
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A Ph.D. thesis in Biology and Biotechnology consists of a research and development project worth a minimum of 30 graduate credit hours advised by a faculty member affiliated with the BB Program. Students must pass a qualifying exam before the student can register for Ph.D. thesis credits. The student must satisfactorily complete a written dissertation, defend in a public presentation and private defense with thesis committee.
BCB 501. Bioinformatics
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This course will provide an overview of bioinformatics, covering a broad selection of the most important techniques used to analyze biological sequence and expression data. Students will acquire a working knowledge of bioinformatics applications through hands-on use of software to ask and answer biological questions. In addition, the course will provide students with an introduction to the theory behind some of the most important algorithms used to analyze sequence data (for example, alignment algorithms and the use of hidden Markov models). Topics covered will include protein and DNA sequence alignments, evolutionary analysis and phylogenetic trees, obtaining protein secondary structure from sequence, and analysis of gene expression including clustering methods. Students may not receive credit for both BB 581 and BB 4801.