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	300 Steele Building CB# 3504 UNC-Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-3504 email: fys@unc.edu phone: (919)843-7773

Biology

BIOL 053 [006D]: Biotechnology: From Genetically Modified Foods to the Sequence of the Human Genome
Physical and Life Science (PL) [GC Natural Science - no lab, life]
Jason Reed
Historically, advances in science and technology have caused profound social changes. This course will examine the science behind a number of striking recent advances in biology, and will consider how these advances may affect how we view the world and ourselves. Topics will include an introductory overview of genetics and genetic engineering, and discussions of animal cloning, genetic engineering of crop plants, discovery and development of new therapeutic drugs, gene therapy, and deciphering of the complete DNA sequence of human and other species. As these new technologies affect all of us, these discussions should benefit both future scientists and non-scientists alike.

BIOL 055 [006D]: The Roots and Flowering of Civilization: Human Societies and their Cultivated Plants
Physical and Life Science (PL) [GC Natural Science - no lab, life]
Todd Vision
We will examine the interactions between humans and cultivated plants from historical, anthropological and biological perspectives. The focus will be on four topics: the transition from hunter-gatherer to farmer, the interchange of crops between the Old and New Worlds, the uses and abuses of medicinal and psychoactive plants, and the current controversy over organic vs. industrial farming methods. We will visit a variety of sites relevant to the themes of the course and will interact with local experts. Students will hone skills in critical thinking, written and oral communication, and research through debates, writing assignments, and a collaborative class project.

BIOL 057 [006D]: Detecting the Future: Human Disease and Genetic Testing
Physical and Life Science (PL) [GC Natural Science - No lab, life]
Sarah Liljegren
This seminar explores the current revolution in our ability to uncover human disease and variability through genetic testing. Students will review the basics of genetics and molecular biology, learn about genetic testing and counseling, discuss ethical issues of testing and treatment, and carry out group research projects on diseases such as cystic fibrosis, breast cancer, sickle cell anemia, and Huntington's disease. Field trips will include tours of genetic and diagnostic testing laboratories.