STEVEN W. MATSON, Chair
Albert S. Baldwin Jr., Victoria L. Bautch, Kerry S. Bloom, Jeffrey L. Dangl, Patricia G. Gensel, Albert K. Harris, Alan M. Jones, Joseph J. Kieber, William M. Kier, Joel G. Kingsolver, Kenneth J. Lohmann, William F. Marzluff, Ann G. Matthysse, Steven W. Matson, Robert K. Peet, Mark A. Peifer, Charles H. Peterson, David W. Pfennig, Patricia J. Pukkila, Edward D. Salmon, Darrel W. Stafford, Peter S. White, R. Haven Wiley.
Robert J. Duronio, Robert P. Goldstein, Jason W. Reed, Seth R. Reice, Lillie L. Searles, Jeff J. Sekelsky.
Shawn Ahmed, Christina Burch, Sabrina S. Burmeister, Gregory P. Copenhaver, Tyson L. Hedrick, Corbin D. Jones, Jason D. Lieb, Sarah Liljegren, Charles Mitchell, Karin Pfennig, Stephen Rogers, Maria R. Servedio, Kevin C. Slep, Keith W. Sockman, Todd J. Vision.
Jean S. DeSaix.
Kenneth H. Bynum, Kelly A. Hogan, Catherine Lohmann.
John Bruno, Frank L. Conlon, Stephen T. Crews, Sarah R. Grant, Christopher S. Willett, Elaine Y. Yeh.
Edward G. Barry, Aris Domnas, J. Alan Feduccia, Lawrence I. Gilbert, Max H. Hommersand, Rogers McVaugh, Gustavo P. Maroni, Donald W. Misch, Helmut C. Mueller, Clifford R. Parks, Tom K. Scott, Alan E. Stiven.
Biology is the study of life from both basic and applied perspectives across a broad range of analytical levels, from the molecule and cell to the organism and ecosystem. The bachelor of science and bachelor of arts degrees in biology provide a liberal education directed toward an appreciation of the complexity of nature and prepare students for careers in the biological, environmental and medical sciences. The B.S. and B.A. in biology train students for careers in the health professions (including medical, dental and veterinary) and in research, teaching or medical practice in institutions of higher education, government and private industry. Professional (M.D., D.V.M., D.D.S. and D.D.M.) and advanced academic (M.A., M.S., Ph.D.) degree programs in the health and life sciences usually require knowledge of biological processes provided by the degree programs in biology.
Departmental majors gain a firm foundation in essential areas of biology through the core curriculum and have ample opportunity to specialize in animal behavior, botany, cell biology, developmental biology, ecology, evolution, genetics, genomics, marine biology, microbiology, molecular biology, physiology and plant biology. There are many opportunities for mentored undergraduate research and internships.
The degrees offered are bachelor of arts in biology and bachelor of science in biology. A minor in biology also is offered.
This program is designed for students who intend to continue graduate study in biological or health sciences. Students must fulfill all General Education requirements with these restrictions and additions:
Foundations: Foreign language: through level 4 (language level 4 may be taken PS/D/F).
Foundations: Quantitative Reasoning: MATH 231, plus one of the following: MATH 232, COMP 110, COMP 116, STOR 155, or STOR 215.
Approaches: Natural Sciences: CHEM 101-101L and BIOL 101-101L, with a C grade or higher.
In addition, students must complete the following:
PHYS 104 and 105 or 116 and 117
CHEM 102-102L, 241-241L, 261, 262-262L.
BIOL 201, 202 and 205 (the core courses) and one organismal structure and diversity course chosen from 271, 272, 273, 274, 275-275L, 276-276L, 277-277L, 278-278L, 279-279L, 378, 471, 472, 475, 476-476L, 478, or 579.
Four biology electives beyond 201 (not including 213, 291, 292, 293, 295, 296, 396 and 692H), at least two of them with a laboratory. At least two courses in biology must be numbered above 400 (not including 501, 691H, 692H).
Two additional courses in biology, other natural sciences or mathematics.
Students must also fulfill the Foundations, Approaches and Connections requirements and take enough free electives to accumulate 123 academic hours.
Suggested program of study for B.S. majors:
First year:
BIOL 101-101L; ENGL 101, 102; language levels 2, 3; CHEM 101-101L, 102-102L; MATH 231 plus second course in mathematics, computer science, or statistics/operations research; Lifetime Fitness
Sophomore year:
Two of the three biology core courses (201, 202, 205); language level 4; CHEM 261, 241- 241L, 262- 262L; Approaches (one course)
Junior year:
Remaining biology core course, organismal biology course, biology electives (three courses); PHYS 104 and 105 or 116 and 117; Approaches and Connections (three courses)
Senior year:
Biology electives (two courses); natural science or biology electives (two courses); Approaches and Connections (two courses); free electives as needed to complete 123 academic hours.
This program is designed to provide greater flexibility than the B.S. in meeting broad student interests. Students must fulfill all General Education requirements with these restrictions and additions:
Foundations: Quantitative Reasoning: one of MATH 130, MATH 231, MATH 152, COMP 110, COMP 116, STOR 155, or STOR 215.
Approaches: Natural Sciences: CHEM 101-101L and BIOL 101-101L, with a C grade or higher.
In addition, students must complete the following:
CHEM 102-102L.
BIOL 201, 202 and 205 (the core courses) and one organismal structure and diversity course chosen from 271, 272, 273, 274, 275-275L, 276-276L, 277-277L, 278-278L, 279-279L, 378, 471, 472, 475, 476-476L, 478, or 579.
Three biology electives beyond 201 (not including 213, 291, 292, 293, 295, 296, 396 and 692H), at least one with laboratory. At least one course in biology must be numbered above 400 (not including 501, 691H, 692H).
Four additional courses in biology, other natural sciences or mathematics (these courses should also complete the Approaches Physical and Life Sciences requirement).
Students must complete the remaining General Education Approaches and Connections requirements, as well as either the Distributive or Integrative option for B.A. majors in the College of Arts and Sciences.
General electives to complete the 120 academic hours are required for graduation.
Suggested program of study for B.A. majors:
First year:
BIOL 101-101L; ENGL 101, 102; language levels 2, 3; CHEM 101-101L, 102-102L; Foundations Quantitative Reasoning requirement as specified above; Lifetime Fitness.
Sophomore year:
Two of the three biology core courses (201, 202, 205); natural sciences electives (two courses); Approaches and Connections (four courses).
Junior year:
Remaining biology core course, organismal biology course, biology electives (two courses); natural sciences electives (two courses); Approaches and Connections (two courses); Distributive or Integrative option/free electives (two courses).
Senior year:
Biology electives (two courses); Approaches and Connections (one course); Distributive or Integrative option and free electives as needed to complete 120 academic hours and other requirements.
A student may minor in biology by taking four biology courses beyond BIOL 101-101L distributed as follows:
two of the three core courses (201, 202 and 205)
one course with a laboratory, and
one course numbered above 400.
Candidates for honors or highest honors must secure approval from the departmental honors advisor. They must have three hours of BIOL 395, take BIOL 691H or 692H and maintain an overall grade point average of 3.2 and a grade point average in biology courses (exclusive of BIOL 395 and 691H) of at least 3.4 (for honors) or 3.85 (for highest honors) at the end of the semester preceding the semester in which they graduate. Other requirements are detailed in a document available in the departmental office and at www.bio.unc.edu/undergraduate/honors/guidelines.htm.
Students are encouraged to speak with their advisor about opportunities to serve as peer advisors or health professions advising assistants, or to join Tri-Beta, the national biological sciences honor society.
Experiential Education
After completing BIOL 201 or 202, students are encouraged to consider how they plan to meet the experiential education requirement. Either BIOL 293 (Internship in Biology) or BIOL 295 (Undergraduate Research in Biology) fulfill this requirement and also connect students' academic course work to current biological research and inquiry. Students who wish to meet this requirement with course work that also counts toward the major in biology should enroll in BIOL 395 rather than 295 or other courses approved to satisfy this requirement (provided the students meet the prerequisites to enroll in these courses).
Laboratory Teaching Internships and Assistantships
Opportunities exist for assisting graduate instructors (and for instruction in undergraduate laboratories). Interested students should contact the instructor of the course or obtain approval from either the departmental director of undergraduate studies or the department chair.
Undergraduate Awards
All awards include a personal plaque, a monetary gift and a place on Coker Hall's list of department honorees. The prizes include:
The Henry Van Peters Wilson Award, given annually to the senior honors student in biology whose research in molecular-cellular biology is judged by a faculty committee to be the most outstanding.
The Robert Ervin Coker Award, given annually to the senior honors student in biology whose research in organismal biology and ecology is judged most outstanding by a faculty committee.
The John N. Couch Award, given annually to the senior honors student with interests in plant biology who has demonstrated the highest ideals of scholarship and research.
The Irvine R. Hagadorn Award, given annually to the junior in biology with the highest overall scholastic average.
The Francis J. LeClair Award, given annually to the outstanding member of the graduating class for academic excellence in Biology with an emphasis in plant sciences.
Undergraduate Research
An undergraduate research experience is extremely valuable to a student who intends to pursue postgraduate work in the biological sciences. Undergraduates may participate directly in the research of faculty in the Department of Biology. This research opportunity allows students to put their knowledge of biology into practice through participation in a biological research program and is encouraged by faculty. Students' participation in research can begin as early as their second year by registration in BIOL 395.
Undergraduates with a 3.0 or higher grade point average in biology courses are encouraged to enroll in BIOL 395. Information concerning the procedure for enrolling in a research course can be obtained from the chair of the department's undergraduate honors research program. Additional information can be found at www.bio.unc.edu/undergraduate/research.htm.
Facilities
The Department of Biology occupies three buildings, Wilson Hall and its annex, Coker Hall, and Fordham Hall. In the summer of 2007 construction of the Genome Science Building will begin. The GSB will house interdisciplinary research programs focused on genomics. The department's library (the John N. Couch Library) is located on the third floor of Coker Hall. It houses more than 70,000 volumes, receives over 1,200 serials related to the wide variety of research fields represented by the department and provides access to more than 700 online journal titles and the major indexes in the biological sciences. In addition, the department has nine greenhouses contiguous to Coker Hall; a microscopy facility that contains a Zeiss EM10CA electron microscope, two confocal microscopes, and support facilities; a P3 laboratory; a small mammal facility; insect culturing rooms; marine aquaria; and a microarray facility.
Those who plan careers in health sciences including dentistry, medicine and veterinary medicine should consult with the Health Professions Advising Office, Room 201D Steele Building. Those who plan to teach in public schools should see the requirements for science teacher programs under the School of Education. Special courses in marine science are offered through the Department of Biology and the Curriculum in Marine Science at the Institute of Marine Science, Morehead City, N.C.
Second-semester sophomores electing a major in biology will be assigned a departmental faculty advisor.
Ms. Denise Burgner, Assistant for Undergraduate Services, Department of Biology, CB# 3280, 212 Coker Hall, (919) 962-3390, fax: (919) 962-1625, burgner@bio.unc.edu.
Dr. Ann Matthysse, Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies, Department of Biology, CB# 3280, 103 Coker Hall, (919) 962-6941, ann_matthysse@unc.edu.
Stated prerequisites are understood to mean "or equivalent" and may be waived by the course instructor for students who are adequately prepared.
NOTE: BIOL 101-101L (11-11L) is the prerequisite for most advanced work in biology. However, entering first-year students may earn placement credit for BIOL 101-101L (11-11L) by either: (1) scoring 3 or higher on the Biology Advanced Placement examination or (2) taking and passing the Department of Biology placement test offered several times during the year.
Course numbers in BIOLOGY have been assigned according to the following principles:
First digit
Under 100: first-year seminars
100 to 199: first-year courses
200 to 299: second year courses
300 to 399: advanced undergraduates only
400 to 499: courses for advanced undergraduates and graduate students
500 to 599: advanced courses for undergraduates and graduate students
600 to 699 courses for graduate students that are open to exceptionally well prepared undergraduates
700 and above: courses for graduate students only.
Second digit
0-1 general topics courses
2 genetics and molecular genetics
3 molecular biology and biochemistry
4 cell and developmental biology
5 organismal and ecological courses
6 ecology
7 courses that fulfill the organismal biology requirement
8 special courses
9 special topics and research
BIOL
053 [006D] First-Year Seminar: Biotechnology: Genetically Modified Foods to the Sequence of the Human Genome (3). Introduction, in a first-year seminar, to recent advances in genetics and cell biology, and discussion and debate concerning how these advances are changing medicine, agriculture and other aspects of our lives.
055 [006D] First-Year Seminar: The Roots and Flowering of Civilization: A Seminar on Plants and People (3). The focus of this first-year seminar will be on the transition from hunter-gatherer, the interchange of crops, medicinal and psychoactive plants, and organic vs. industrial farming methods.
057 [006D] First-Year Seminar: Detecting the Future: Human Diseases and Genetic Tests (3). A first-year seminar focusing on the future of human diseases and genetic tests.
101 [011] Principles of Biology (3). Open to all undergraduates. Prerequisite to most higher courses in biology. An introduction to the fundamental principles of biology, including cell structure, chemistry and function, genetics, evolution, adaptation and ecology. (See note above concerning Advanced Placement examination.) Three lecture hours a week.
101L [011L] Introductory Biology Laboratory (1). Prerequisite or corequisite, BIOL 101. An examination of the fundamental concepts in biology with emphasis on scientific inquiry. Biological systems will be analyzed through experimentation, dissection and observation. Three laboratory hours a week.
111 [001] Biology Inquiry (1). No prerequisite. A seminar course that focuses on how biologists ask questions and resolve controversy. Students read and discuss excerpts from the original literature. Designed for first-year students but open to all interested students.
113 [010] Issues in Modern Biology (3). For students not majoring in biology. Students who have taken any other course in the Biology Department may not register for this course. Recent advances in the understanding of major principles in biology. Emphasis to include the relevance and application of such advances to humans, society and the environment. Three lecture hours a week.
128 [008] Biology of Human Disease (PATH 128) (3). No prerequisites. Open to all undergraduates. Presents an overview of basic human molecular and cellular biology in the setting of common human diseases. The course will emphasize how an understanding of disease mechanisms provides the knowledge base for informed use of modern health care. Does not count as a course in the major.
159 [009] Prehistoric Life (GEOL 159) (3). Fossils and the origin and evolution of life, including micro- and macroevolution, mass extinctions, the evolution of dinosaurs and humans, and scientific perspectives on multicultural creationism. (Optional lab.) Cannot be used as a major requirement in biology. Does not count as a course in the major.
159L [009L] Prehistoric Life Laboratory (GEOL 159L) (1). Normal laboratory is one credit hour; two credit hour laboratory includes internship (3-5 hours, once a week) at the N.C. Museum of Natural History as part of APPLES program.
201 Ecology and Evolution (4). Prerequisites, grade of C or better in BIOL 101 and CHEM 101 or CHEM 102. Principles governing the ecology and evolution of populations, communities and ecosystems, including speciation, population genetics, population regulation, and community and ecosystem structure and dynamics. Three lecture hours and one recitation-demonstration-conference hour a week.
202 [050] Molecular Biology and Genetics (4). Prerequisites, grade of C or better in BIOL 101 and CHEM 101 or CHEM 102. Structure and function of nucleic acids, principles of inheritance, gene expression and genetic engineering. Three lecture hours and one recitation-demonstration-conference hour a week.
205 [052] Cellular and Developmental Biology (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 202. Fundamentals of cell structure and activity in relation to special functions, metabolism, reproduction, embryogenesis, and with an introduction to the experimental analysis of cell physiology and development. Three lectures and one recitation-demonstration-conference hour a week.
211 [060] Introduction to Research in Biology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 201or 202. A seminar based on current investigations at UNC-Chapel Hill. Students will examine sources of scientific information, explore the logic of scientific investigation and develop proposals for their own work. Not open to seniors. Students with BIOL 211 credit may receive a maximum of 3 hours of graded credit in BIOL 395.
213 [031] Evolution and Life (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 101. For students not majoring in biology. An introduction to the scientific study of biological evolution and its applications. The mechanisms that cause evolution and general patterns of evolution during the history of life. Does not count as a course in the major.
251 [044] Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology (3). This course relates the way in which the human body is constructed to the way in which it functions and is controlled. Credit for only one of BIOL 251 and BIOL 252. Only offered through Continuing Studies.
252 [045] Fundamentals of Human Anatomy and Physiology (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 101 and 101L. An introductory course emphasizing the relationship between and function of the body's organ systems. The required lab uses computer software to illustrate anatomy and noninvasive experiments to measure activity of major organ systems. Three lecture and three laboratory hours each week.
253 [084] Mountain Diversity (ENST 404) (4). Introduction to the rich diversity of plants, animals and fungi of the Southern Appalachians, focusing on their ecology, systematics, evolution and conservation.
262 [064] Global Ecology: An International Perspective on Ecological and Environmental Problems (ENST 262) (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 201. Ecological basis of global environmental problems and their solutions. Topics include: human population growth; food and water shortages; biodiversity loss, deforestation; desertification; emerging diseases and climate change. These are elements in an interconnected ecological system at a global scale.
271 [041] Plant Biology (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L. Designed for students with an interest in natural sciences. An introduction to the principles of botany including structure, function, reproduction, heredity, environmental relationships, evolution and classification of plants. Three lectures and three laboratory hours a week.
272 [43] Local Flora (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L. Open to all undergraduates. Recognition and identification of vascular plants with emphasis on the use of keys and other identification devices. Two lecture and four laboratory hours a week.
273 [47] Horticulture (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 101. The cultivation, propagation and breeding of plants, with emphasis on ornamentals. Control of environmental factors for optimal plant growth. Laboratory exercises include plant culture, propagation, pruning and identification of common ornamentals. Two lecture, one recitation and three laboratory hours a week.
274 [051] Plant Diversity (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L. A survey of the major groups of plants emphasizing interrelationships, comparative morphology and other topics of biological importance. Culturing techniques and some field work are included. Two lecture and four laboratory hours a week.
275 [080] Biology of Insects (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L. Study of insects with emphasis on physiology, ecology and behavior. Three lecture, discussion and demonstration hours a week.
275L Biology of Insects Laboratory (1). Prerequisites, BIOL 101 and 101L; corequisite, BIOL 275. Identification of insects and laboratory studies in insect physiology, ecology and behavior; student projects in insect biology. Three laboratory hours a week and field collections.
276 Evolution of Vertebrate Life (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L. Evolutionary history of the vertebrates, emphasis on anatomical, physiological, behavioral adaptations accompanying major transitions: the move from water to land, the development of complex integrating systems.
276L [063L] Vertebrate Structure and Evolution Laboratory (1). Prerequisite or corequisite, BIOL 276. Vertebrate comparative anatomy of organ systems and their evolution with emphasis on human anatomy. Three laboratory hours a week.
277 [072] Vertebrate Field Zoology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, 101L. Introduction to the diversity, ecology, behavior and conservation of living vertebrates. Three lecture hours a week.
277L [072L] Vertebrate Field Zoology Laboratory (1). Prerequisites, BIOL 101 and 101L; corequisite, BIOL 277. Study of the diversity of vertebrates in the field. Three laboratory and field hours a week, including two weekend trips.
278 [073] Animal Behavior (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L. Introduction to animal behavior with emphases on the diversity and adaptation of behavior in natural conditions. Three lecture hours a week.
278L [073L] Animal Behavior Laboratory (1). Prerequisite or corequisite, BIOL 278. Techniques of observation and experiments in animal behavior. Three laboratory hours a week.
279 [097] Special Topics in Organismal Biology (2-3). Prerequisite, permission of instructor. An undergraduate course devoted to consideration of pertinent aspects of a selected organismal biological discipline.
279L [097L] Special Topics in Organismal Biology Laboratory (1-2). Prerequisite, permission of instructor. An undergraduate laboratory course covering aspects of a specific organismal biological discipline. Laboratory reports will be required. Research work is not included in this course.
290 [096] Special Topics (1-3). Prerequisite, permission of the staff. An undergraduate seminar course devoted to consideration of pertinent aspects of a selected biological discipline.
290L [096L] Special Topics Laboratory (1-2). Prerequisite, permission of the staff. An undergraduate laboratory course covering aspects of a specific biological discipline. Laboratory reports will be required. Research work is not included in this course.
291 [090] Laboratory Intern in Biology (1). Prerequisites, 3.0 or higher in course in question and all biology work, and permission of instructor. Experience to include laboratory preparations, demonstrations, assistance and attendance at weekly laboratory preparation meetings for the course. Interns will not be involved in any aspects of grading in the course. May be repeated with credit. Three laboratory hours a week.
292 [091] Laboratory Teaching Assistant in Biology (2). Prerequisites, 3.0 or higher in course in question and all biology work and permission of instructor and department chair. Experience and duties to include attendance at weekly laboratory preparation meetings for the course, laboratory preparations, demonstrations, instruction and grading in one section of laboratory course. May be repeated for credit. Three laboratory hours a week.
293 Undergraduate Internship in Biology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 201 or 202 and permission of instructor. For departmental majors in biology. The sponsored, off-campus work must involve at least 135 hours. Does not count as a course in the major.
295 Undergraduate Research in Biology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 201 or 202 and permission of instructor. For departmental majors in Biology. The work must involve at least 135 hours of research effort in which students learn to ask appropriate questions and place results within suitable frameworks. Does not count as a course in the major.
296 [095] Directed Reading (1-3). Prerequisite, permission of the staff. Extensive and intensive reading of the literature of a specific biological field directly supervised by a member of the biology faculty. Written reports on the readings, or a literature review paper will be required. Cannot be used as a course toward the major.
321 [124] Introduction to Immunology (MCRO 321) (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202, BIOL 205 and permission of instructor. This course provides a general overview of the evolution, organization and function of the immune system. Instruction will be inquiry-based with extensive use of informational and instructional technology tools. Three lectures hours a week.
324 [135] Molecular Basis of Disease (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 and BIOL 205, or permission of instructor. This course covers the molecular mechanisms of human diseases, including genetic diseases, infectious diseases, immunodeficiencies, nutritional disorders, cancer, metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders.
350 [126] Oceanography (ENVR 417, GEOL 403, MASC 401) (3). Prerequisites, major in a natural science or at least two college-level courses in natural sciences. The origin of ocean basins, chemistry and dynamics of seawater, biological communities and processes, the sedimentary record and history of oceanography. Term paper. Intended for students with college science background; other students should see GEOL 103. Three lecture hours a week.
382 [092] Senior Seminar (1). Prerequisite, faculty recommendation. Offered to seniors for more detailed and comprehensive exposure to unifying principles in biology. Discussions and analyses of selected topics by students. Three seminar hours a week.
395 Undergraduate Research (1-3). Prerequisites, BIOL 201 or BIOL 202, an overall 3.0 grade point average, and permission of the faculty research director. Laboratory study addressing biological questions . Requires final written report. May be repeated for up to six credit hours. One-five hours counts as lecture course. Six counts as lecture/lab course.
396 [098B] Undergraduate Research (1-3). Prerequisites, BIOL 395, an overall 3.0 grade point average and permission of a faculty research director. Directed readings with laboratory study on a selected topic. A final written report is required each term. May be repeated. This course is offered for pass/fail credit only.
422 [108] Microbiology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 or consent of the instructor. Bacterial form, growth, physiology, genetics and diversity. Bacterial interactions including symbiosis and pathogenesis (animal and plant). Use of bacteria in biotechnology. Brief introduction to fungi and viruses.
422L [108L] Microbiology Laboratory (1-2). Prerequisite or corequisite, BIOL 422. Sterile technique, bacterial growth and physiology, bacterial genetics, bacteriophage and bacterial diversity.
423L Laboratory Experiments in Genetics (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 205. Experiments using a range of organisms from bacteria to Drosophila, higher plants, and man to sample organismal and molecular genetics. One lecture hour, four laboratory hours.
424 [115] Strategies of Host-Microbe Interactions (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205 and BIOL 422, or equivalents. There is great variety in how microbes colonize and live with their hosts. The course will summarize strategies of pathogenicity, symbiosis, commensalism and mutualism. Evolutionary, cellular and molecular aspects will be analyzed.
425 [122] Human Genetics (GNET 425) (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 202. Pedigree analysis, inheritance of complex traits, DNA damage and repair, human genome organization, DNA fingerprinting, the genes of hereditary diseases, chromosomal aberrations, cancer and oncogenes, immunogenetics and tissue transplants. Three lecture hours a week.
426 [134] Biology of Blood Diseases (PATH 426) (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205 or permission of instructor. An introduction to the biology and pathophysiology of blood and the molecular mechanisms of some human diseases, including malignant neoplasms, anemias, hemophilias, thrombophilias, atherosclerosis and viral infections.
427 [127] Human Diversity and Population Genetics (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 and BIOL 201, or permission of the instructor. This course investigates the facts, methods and theories behind human population genetics, evolution and diversity. Specifically, it addresses questions of human origins, population structure and genetic diversity.
429 [125] Clinical and Counseling Aspects of Human Genetics (GNET 635) (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 425 and permission of instructor. Topics in clinical genetics including pedigree analysis, counseling/ethical issues, genetic testing, screening and issues in human research are taught in a small group format. Active student participation is expected. Three lecture hours per week.
430 [130] Introduction to Biological Chemistry (CHEM 430) (3). Prerequisites, CHEM 262 or CHEM 262H, CHEM 262L or CHEM 263L; BIOL 101. The study of cellular processes including catalysis, metabolism, bioenergetics and biochemical genetics. The structure and function of biological macromolecules involved in these processes is emphasized.
434 [164] Molecular Biology (3). Prerequisites, CHEM 261 and BIOL 202. Emphasis is on prokaryotic molecular biology, plasmids, lambda-phage and single-strand phages. Three lecture hours a week.
435 [171] Molecular Biology Techniques (4). Prerequisite, permission of instructor; BIOL 434 recommended. Experiments with bacterial phage, nucleic acid isolation and properties, recombinant DNA techniques and DNA sequencing. Additional hours in laboratory will be necessary to complete assignments.
436 [131] Endocrinology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205 or BIOL 252. Principles of neuroendocrine and endocrine systems of vertebrates and selected invertebrates with consideration of the anatomy and physiology of glands of internal secretion. Hormone chemistry and interendocrine relationships are also emphasized. Three lecture hours a week.
438 [190] Frontiers in Cell and Molecular Biology (4). Prerequisites, two courses in biology and permission of instructor. Does not count toward a major in biology. Available by correspondence.
439 [165] Introduction to Signal Transduction (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 202, BIOL 205. This course presents an introduction to signal transduction pathways used by higher eukaryotes. Several signaling paradigms will be discussed to illustrate the ways that cells transmit information. Three lecture hours per week.
441 [104] Vertebrate Embryology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 252 or BIOL 205. Principles of development with special emphasis on gametogenesis, fertilization, cleavage, germ layer formation, organogenesis and mechanisms with experimental analysis of developmental processes. Three lecture hours a week.
441L [104L] Vertebrate Embryology Laboratory (1). Prerequisite or corequisite, BIOL 441. Descriptive and some experimental aspects of vertebrate development. Three laboratory hours a week.
443 [144] Developmental Biology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 or BIOL 205 and CHEM 261. An experimental approach to an understanding of animals and plants. The approach covers developmental processes, molecular, genetic, cell biological and biochemical techniques, with an emphasis on the molecules involved in development.
445 [169] Cancer Biology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 and BIOL 205. Selected examples will be used to illustrate how basic research allows us to understand the mechanistic basis of cancer and how these insights offer hope for new treatments.
446 [166] Unsolved Problems in Cellular Biology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205. A survey of areas of current interest in cytology, embryology and genetics with concentration on problems which remain unsolved, but which appear to be near solution. Three lecture and discussion hours a week.
447 [129] Laboratory in Cell Biology (4). Prerequisite, grade of C or better in BIOL 205. Modern methods to study cells, technical skills necessary for research in cell and molecular biology, knowledge of good lab practice, operation of technical instrumentation. Three lecture and three laboratory hours a week.
448 [167] Advanced Cell Biology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205. An advanced course in cell biology, with emphasis on the biochemistry and molecular biology of cell structure and function. Three lecture hours a week.
450 [121] Introduction to Neurobiology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205. Survey of neurobiological principles in vertebrates and invertebrates, including development, morphology, physiology and molecular mechanisms. Three lectures a week.
451 [120] Comparative Physiology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L, PHYS 104, PHYS 105. An examination of the physiology of animals using a comparative approach. Both invertebrate and vertebrate animals are discussed in order to elucidate general principles.
452 [170] Mathematical and Computational Models in Biology (MATH 452) (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 202, BIOL 201, MATH 231, and either MATH 232 or STOR 155. This course will introduce analytical, computational and statistical techniques, such as discrete models, numerical integration of ordinary differential equations, and likelihood functions, to explore topics from various fields of biology. Lab is included.
453 [150] Animal Societies and Communication (3). Prerequisite or corequisite, BIOL 278. Comparative review of animal societies; diversity of social structure, social dynamics, communication, ecology and evolution of social organization. Three lecture hours a week.
454 [158] Evolutionary Genetics (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 and BIOL 201 or permission of instructor. The roles of mutation, migration, genetic drift and natural selection in the evolution of the genotype and phenotype. Basic principles are applied to special interest topics. Three lecture hours a week.
455 [154] Behavioral Neuroscience (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205 or permission. The neurobiological basis of animal behavior at the level of single cells, neural circuits, sensory systems and organisms. Lecture topics range from principles of cellular neurobiology to ethological field studies.
456 [157] Problems in Vertebrate Evolution (GEOL 456) (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 276 or permission of the instructor. A study of the major transitions in vertebrate evolution and associated problems in evolutionary biology, structural change, paleoecology, biogeography and earth history, physiology and behavior.
457 [148] Marine Biology (MASC 442) (3). Prerequisites, MASC 101 or BIOL 101. A survey of plants and animals that live in the sea: characteristics of marine habitats, organisms and the ecosystems will be emphasized. Marine environment, the organisms involved and the ecological systems that sustain them.
459 [195] Field Biology at Highlands Biological Station (1-4). Prerequisite, BIOL 101 or equivalent, or permission of instructor. Content will vary. Summer field biology at the Highlands Biological Station will generally focus on the special faunal and floristic processes and patterns characteristic of the southern Appalachian mountain region. Five lecture and three to five laboratory and field hours per week, depending on credit.
461 [112] Fundamentals of Ecology (ECOL 461, ENST 461) (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 201. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the field of ecology, including modern and emerging trends in ecology. They will develop literacy in the fundamental theories and models that capture ecological processes; emphasis will also be placed on the relevance of ecology and ecological research for human society.
462 [146] Marine Ecology (MASC 440) (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 201 or BIOL 475. A survey of ecological and oceanographic processes structuring marine communities in a broad range of habitats with an emphasis on experimental approaches to addressing both basic and applied problems in marine systems. Three lecture hours a week.
463 Field Ecology (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 201. Application of ecological theory to terrestrial and/or freshwater systems. Lectures will acquaint students with these systems and emphasize quantitative properties of interacting population and communities within them. The required laboratory will teach techniques and methodology applicable for analysis of these systems. Individual and group projects will emphasize experimental testing of ecological theory in the field. Two lecture and six field hours a week.
467 [156] Evolutionary Ecology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 471 or permission of instructor. Advanced topics in the evolution of form and function. May include issues in life-history evolution, evolutionary physiology, evolutionary morphology and the evolution of complexity. Three lecture hours per week.
469 [151] Behavioral Ecology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 201 or BIOL 278. Behavior as an adaptation to the environment. Evolution of behavioral strategies for survival and reproduction. Optimality, and games that animals play. Three lecture hours a week.
471 [132] Evolutionary Mechanisms (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 202 and BIOL 201, or permission of instructors. Introduction to mechanisms of evolutionary change, including natural selection, population genetics, life history evolution, speciation and micro-macroevolutionary trends. Three lecture hours plus two hours of laboratory/recitation per week.
472 [103] Introduction to Plant Taxonomy (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 271 and/or BIOL 272 or permission of the instructor. Introduction to the taxonomy of vascular plants. Principles of classification, identification, nomenclature and description. Laboratory and field emphasis on phytography, families, description, identification and classification of vascular plant species. Three lecture and three laboratory hours a week.
475 [105] Marine Invertebrate Biology (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L and one additional course in biology. An introduction to the major animal phyla emphasizing form, function, behavior, ecology, evolution and classification of marine invertebrates. Three lecture and three laboratory hours per week.
476 [114] Avian Biology (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L and one additional course in biology. A study of avian evolution, biogeography, ecology and behavior with emphasis on North Carolina avifauna. Three lecture hours a week.
476L [114L] Avian Biology Laboratory (1). Prerequisite, corequisite, BIOL 476. Techniques for the study of avian evolution, ecology and behavior with emphasis on North Carolina birds. Three laboratory or field hours a week, including one or two weekend field trips.
478 [110] Invertebrate Paleontology (GEOL 419) (4). Prerequisites, GEOL 159 or BIOL 101, or permission of instructor. Introduction to the principles, methods of analysis and major controversies within paleontology. Examination of the fossil record and its application to problems in evolutionary biology, paleoecology, paleoclimatology and general Earth history.
490 [175] Special Topics (3). Prerequisite, permission of instructor. Content will vary. Three lecture and discussion hours per week by visiting and resident faculty.
501 [176] Ethical Issues in Life Sciences (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 and BIOL 205 and permission of instructor. A consideration and discussion of ethical issues in life sciences including cloning humans, genetic engineering, stem cell research, organ transplantation and animal experimentation. Counts as a course numbered below 400 for biology major requirements.
514 [133] Evolution and Development (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 201, BIOL 202, BIOL 205. The course examines the mechanisms by which organisms are built and evolve. In particular, it examines how novel and complex traits and organisms arise from interactions among genes and cells. Three lecture hours per week.
522 [109] Bacterial Genetics (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 422. Genetics of eubacteria with emphasis on molecular genetics including regulation of gene expression, transposons, operons, regulons, plasmids, transformation and conjugation.
524 [424] Strategies of Host-Microbe Interactions (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 205 and BIOL 422, or equivalents. There is great variety in how microbes colonize and live with their hosts. The course will summarize strategies of pathogenicity, symbiosis, commensalism and mutualism. Evolutionary, cellular and molecular aspects will be analyzed.
526 [162] Computational Genetics (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 202 and COMP 101 and STOR 155. A study of the concepts underlying the bioinformatic tools used in genetics. Topics include alignment, gene finding, expression analysis, mapping, phylogenetics and measuring sequence divergence and polymorphism. Three lecture and two laboratory hours per week.
529 [429] Clinical and Counseling Aspects of Human Genetics (GNET 635) (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 425 and permission of instructor. Topics in clinical genetics including pedigree analysis, counseling/ethical issues, genetic testing, screening and issues in human research are taught in a small group format. Active student participation is expected. Three lecture hours per week.
535 [435] Molecular Biology Techniques (4). Prerequisite, permission of instructor; BIOL 434 recommended. Experiments with bacterial phage, nucleic acid isolation and properties, recombinant DNA techniques and DNA sequencing. Additional hours in laboratory will be necessary to complete assignments.
536 [136] Macromolecular Structure and Metabolism (3). Prerequisites, CHEM 430; BIOL 202. Structure of DNA and methods in biotechnology; DNA replication and repair; RNA structure, synthesis, localization and transcriptional reputation; protein structure/function, biosynthesis, modification, localization and degradation.
537 [137] Metabolic Chemistry and Cellular Regulatory Networks (3). Prerequisite, CHEM 430. Biological membranes, membrane protein structure, transport phenomena; metabolic pathways, reaction themes, regulatory networks; metabolic transformations with carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids and nucleotides; regulatory networks, signal transduction.
542 [188] Light Microscopy for the Biological Sciences (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 205 and permission of instructor. Introduction to various types of light microscopy, digital and video imaging techniques and their application in biological sciences.
551 [155] Comparative Biomechanics (3). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L, PHYS 104, PHYS 105. The structure and function of organisms in relation to the principles of fluid mechanics and solid mechanics.
553 [152] Plant Anatomy (5). Prerequisite, BIOL 274. Introduction to the development and comparative anatomy of vascular plants. Practice in methods of anatomical microtechnique. Three lecture and four laboratory hours a week.
554 [153] Comparative Morphology of Vascular Plants (5). Prerequisite, BIOL 274. Comparative morphology and evolutionary relationships of the Tracheophyta. Both living and fossil forms will be considered. Three lecture and four laboratory hours a week.
555 [181] Paleobotany (GEOL 555) (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 101, BIOL 101L and permission of instructor. An introduction to the morphology, stratigraphic occurrence and evolutionary relationships of fossil plants. Both macrofossils and microfossils will be considered. Three lecture and three laboratory hours a week.
561 [143] Ecological Plant Geography (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 101 or GEOG 110. Description of the major vegetation types of the world including their distribution, structure and dynamics. The principal causes for the distribution of plant species and communities, such as climate, soils and history will be discussed.
562 [141] Statistics for Environmental Scientists (ECOL 562, ENST 562) (4). Prerequisite, STOR 155 or equivalent. Introduction to the application of quantitative and statistical methods in environmental science including environmental monitoring, assessment, threshold exceedance, risk assessment and environmental decision making.
563 [145] Statistical Analysis in Ecology and Evolution (ECOL 563, ENST 563) (4). Prerequisites, STOR 151, MATH 231. Application of modern statistical analysis and data modeling in ecological and evolutionary research. Emphasis is on computer-intensive methods and model-based approaches. Familiarity with standard parametic statistics is assumed.
564 [149] Ecosystem Structure and Function (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 201 or a course in limnology or geochemistry. Pattern and process in natural ecosystems, with stress on comparative approaches to ecosystems and analysis. Topics include primary and secondary productivity, nutrient cycling and the biogeochemistry of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Three lecture hours a week.
564L [149L] Ecosystem Structure and Function Laboratory (1). Prerequisites, corequisites, BIOL 564 and permission of instructor. Use of data to generate empirical models of ecosystem patterns or processes. Individual research projects. Three laboratory hours a week.
565 [184] Conservation Biology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 201. The application of biological science to the conservation of populations, communities and ecosystems, including rare species management, exotic species invasions, management of natural disturbance, research strategies and preserve design principles.
567 [467] Evolutionary Ecology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 471 or permission of instructor. Advanced topics in the evolution of form and function. May include issues in life-history evolution, evolutionary physiology, evolutionary morphology and the evolution of complexity. Three lecture hours per week.
579 [183] Organismal Structure and Diversity in the Southern Appalachian Mountains (4). Prerequisite, general biology, ecology or permission of instructor. An examination of the field biology of selected fungi, plants or animals of the Appalachian Mountains. The morphology, taxonomy, ecology, life history and behavior of the organisms will be explored both in the laboratory and in the field.
621 [161] Principles of Genetic Analysis 1 (GNET 621) (3). Prerequisite for undergraduates, BIOL 202. For graduate students, an undergraduate genetics course or permission of instructor. Genetic principles of genetic analysis in prokaryotes and lower eukaryotes.
622 [168] Principles of Genetic Analysis 2 (GNET 622) (4). Prerequisites, BIOL 621 or GNET 621. Principles of genetic analysis in higher eukaryotes; genomics.
624 [160] Developmental Genetics (GNET 624) (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 202 and BIOL 205, and permission of instructor required for undergraduates. Genetic and molecular control of plant and animal development. Extensive reading from primary literature.
625 [270] Seminar in Genetics (GNET 625) (2). Prerequisite, permission of instructor. Current and significant problems in genetics. May be repeated for credit.
631 [178] Advanced Molecular Biology I (BIOC 631, GNET 631, MCRO 631, PHCO 631) (3). Prerequisites for undergraduates, at least one undergraduate course in both biochemistry and genetics. DNA structure, function and interactions in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, including chromosome structure, replication, recombination, repair and genome fluidity. Three lecture hours a week.
632 [179] Advanced Molecular Biology II (BIOC 632, GNET 632, MCRO 632, PHCO 632) (3). Prerequisites for undergraduates, at least one undergraduate course in both biochemistry and genetics. RNA structure, function and processing in biological systems including transcription, gene regulation, translation and oncogenes. Three lecture hours a week.
639 [272] Seminar in Plant Molecular and Cell Biology (2). Prerequisite, permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit. Current and significant problems in plant molecular and cell biology are discussed in a seminar format.
642 [177] Current Topics in Cell Division (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 205. An advanced course in cell and molecular biology integrating genetic, biochemical and structural aspects of the cell cycle. Principles derived from a variety of biological systems. Extensive reading of classic papers as well as recent literature.
648 [282] Palynology (5). Prerequisite, consent of the instructor. A consideration of various aspects of palynology, including the morphology, structure, development, systematics, evolution, preparation techniques, and analysis of living and fossil pollen grains, spores and other palynomorphs. Two lecture and six laboratory hours a week.
649 [254] Seminar in Cell Biology (2). Prerequisite, BIOL 205 or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit.
657 [140] Biological Oceanography (ENVR 520, MASC 504) (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 201 or BIOL 475 or permission. Physical, chemical, and biological factors characterizing estuarine and marine environments with emphasis on factors controlling animal and plant populations, including experimental approaches and methods of analysis, sampling and identification. Five lecture and five laboratory hours a week.
659 [258] Seminar in Evolutionary Biology (2). Prerequisite, BIOL 471 or permission of instructor. Advanced topics in evolutionary biology.
661 [142] Plant Ecology (4). Prerequisite, BIOL 201. Consideration of terrestrial, vascular plant ecology including environmental physiology, population dynamics, and community structure. Laboratory stresses collection and interpretation of field data. Three lecture and three laboratory hours a week.
662 [247] Field Plant Geography (2). Prerequisites, BIOL 661 or 561 and permission of instructor. Intensive literature and field study of the plant geography and ecology of a selected region. Weekly seminar-style discussion followed by approximately nine days' field experience. May be repeated for credit.
663 [185] Population Ecology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 201. An advanced treatment of topics in animal population and community ecology, stressing analytical and interpretation approaches. Topics will vary from year to year and the course may be repeated with credit. Three lecture and discussion hours a week.
663L [185L] Laboratory in Population Ecology (1). Prerequisites, corequisites, BIOL 663 and permission of instructor. Methodology in the analysis and interpretation of population and community phenomena. Three laboratory and field hours a week.
666 [186] Community and Systems Ecology (3). Prerequisite, BIOL 201. A holistic approach to ecology. State-space modeling of ecological processes. Other topics will vary but may include: spatial and temporal heterogeneity in communities and ecosystems; disturbance theory; decomposition; community structure and function; freshwater ecology.
666L [186L] Community and Systems Ecology Laboratory (1). Prerequisite or corequisite, BIOL 666. Community and/or ecosystem modeling and computer simulation. Experimental analyses and validation in the field. Individual and group projects. Three laboratory and field hours a week.
669 [255] Seminar in Ecology (ECOL 669) (2). Prerequisite, BIOL 201 or permission of the instructor. May be repeated for credit.
691H [099A] Senior Honors Thesis (3). Prerequisites, permission of a faculty research director and three credit hours of BIOL 395 in the same laboratory. Students with six hours of BIOL 395 must take BIOL 692H. See also the description of honors and highest honors under Special Undergraduate Opportunities in Biology in the statement preceding course descriptions. Required of all candidates for honors or highest honors in their senior year.
692H [099B] Senior Honors Thesis (3). Prerequisites, permission of a faculty research director and six credit hours of BIOL 395 in the same laboratory. Students with six hours of BIOL 395 must take BIOL 692H. See also the description of honors and highest honors under Special Undergraduate Opportunities in Biology in the statement preceding course descriptions. Required of all candidates for honors or highest honors in their senior year. This course is offered for pass/fail credit only.