Biology
PROFESSORS
Terry W. Hill. 1978. B.A., University of South Florida; M.S., Ph.D., University of Florida. (Cell biology, microbiology, biology of fungi.)David H. Kesler. 1980. B.S., Denison University; M.S., University of Rhode Island; Ph.D., University of Michigan. (Ecology, limnology, coral reef ecology.)
Gary J. Lindquester. Chair. 1988. B.S., Furman University; M.S., Ph.D., Emory University. (Molecular biology, virology, immunology.)
John S. Olsen. 1977. Dean of Academic Affairs for Faculty Personnel. B.S., M.S., University of Illinois; Ph.D., University of Texas. (Systematics, evolution, plant taxonomy, morphology.)
ASSOCIATE PROFESSORS
Jay A. Blundon. 1993. B.S., Duke University; M.S., Ph.D., University of Maryland. (Animal physiology, neuroscience.)Alan P. Jaslow. 1984. B.S., University of Wisconsin; M.S., Ph.D., University of Michigan. (Vertebrate biology, functional morphology, animal communication.)
Carolyn R. Jaslow. 1988. B.A., Mount Holyoke College; M.S., Ohio University; Ph.D., University of Chicago. (Biomechanics, histology, embryology, mammology.)
Mary Miller. 2001. B.A., University of Tennessee; Ph.D., University of Virginia. (Genetics, microbiology, cell biology.)
ASSISTANT PROFESSORS
Rosanna Cappellato. 2004. B.S., University of Rome; Doctorandus, University of Amsterdam; Ph.D., Emory University. (Environmental science, ecology, conservation biology.)Jonathan Fitz Gerald. 2007. B.S., University of California at Irvine; Ph.D., University of Chicago. (Plant biology, development.)
VISITING ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Anthony J. Becker. 2000. B.S., Mount St. Mary’s College; M.S. and Ph.D., West Virginia University. (Physiology, animal behavior.)FACULTY FELLOW
Sarah K. Gremillion. 2007. B.A., Hendrix College; Ph.D., University of Georgia. (Plant pathology.)STAFF
Christian Hardin. 2000 Laboratory Supervisor and Biology Stockroom Manager. B.S., University of Tennessee.Karen Thomas. 2007. Biology Department Assistant. B.A., Baylor University.
REQUIREMENTS FOR A MAJOR IN BIOLOGY LEADING TO THE B.S. DEGREE
A total of fifty-three to fifty-seven (53-57) credits as follows:- Biology 130-131, 140-141.
- At least six upper level courses; at least four of which must have an associated lab experience. Four credits of research in Biology (451 or 452) will satisfy an upper level course with lab requirement. Chemistry 416 and/or Chemistry 414 (Chem 414 may include Chem/Bio 310 to satisfy a lab requirement) may also be counted as upper level courses for the Biology major.
- Biology 485 or 486.
- Chemistry 111-111L, 112-112L
- One course from Math 111, Econ 290, or Psych 211.
- One course from Math 115, Math 121, or Computer Science 141.
Courses and accompanying laboratories of the same name are linked co-requisites and must be taken together. Unless otherwise noted, courses meet under the standard class schedule and laboratories meet for a three hour period; laboratories also often require further project work outside the scheduled lab time.
COURSE OFFERINGS
104. Topics In Biology.Fall or Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Natural Science.
Topics in Biology courses provide an in-depth understanding of a topic in the Biological Sciences. As in other introductory biology courses, each Topics course details fundamental principles and concepts in the discipline but in the context of a specific topic. Topics in Biology may be taken as elective credit by students majoring in Biology provided they have not already taken an upper level Biology course of similar content; however, Topics in Biology will not satisfy upper-level course requirements for the major in Biology.
105. Topics In Biology with Laboratory.
Fall or Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Natural Science, F7.
Similar to Biology 104 but includes a laboratory component.
130, 131. Biology I.
Fall. Credits: 3, 1.
Degree Requirements: Natural Science, F7 (after completing lab and lecture).
An examination of the structure and functions of life at the cellular level. Topics include the organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, the roll of proteins in cell structure and metabolism, membrane structure and function, bioenergetics, interactions between a cell and its environment, and the mechanisms of heredity. Laboratory work provides an introduction to investigative techniques in biology and skills required for the analysis and presentation of scientific findings. Biology 130 and 131 are linked co-requisites.
140, 141. Biology II.
Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
Degree Requirements: Natural Science.
A study of biological principles at the level of organisms and above. This course covers the mechanisms of evolution; plant and animal development, anatomy, and physiology; behavior and ecology. Laboratory stresses the importance of hypothesis testing. Biology 140 and 141 are linked co-requisites.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131.
200. Evolution.
Fall or Spring. Credits: 4.
Degree Requirements: Natural Science, F2 (some sections).
A study of the evolutionary process from the historical development of the Darwinian concepts of change and natural selection to a modern synthetic analysis of the mechanisms of populational change, the process of speciation, the origins of life and extinction.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 or 140, 141.
201, 201L. Mycology
Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
Degree Requirements: Natural Science.
The study of life’s “fifth kingdom”: the fungi and fungus-like protists. Even though they share an equal evolutionary standing with plants and animals, to most persons fungi remain amongst the most mysterious and ill-defined of nature’s inhabitants. Just what is a fungus anyway? Where do they live, and what are they doing out there? This course will provide answers to questions like these, as well as provide examples of the practical uses of fungi in industry and research and of the roles that some of them play as agents of disease. The laboratory emphasizes the development of skills in the isolation and characterization of fungi from nature. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2009-2010.)
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131.
202. Vertebrate Life.
Spring. Credits: 4.
A study of the diversity of vertebrates including past and present radiations. This course focuses on the various and diverse adaptations in behavior, ecology, morphology and physiology that allow vertebrates to successfully inhabit water, air and land. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2008-2009.)
Prerequisites: Biology 140, 141.
204, 204L. Mechanisms of Development.
Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
An overview of developmental processes directed at exploring the cellular and subcellular mechanisms which control development. Modern experimental approaches and current models will be emphasized.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
207, 207L. Animal Behavior.
Fall. Credits: 4, 1.
An evolutionary and ecological approach to questions of why and how animals behave as they do. Emphasis is on how traits help individuals maximize the survival of genes within them. Laboratories will involve quantitative data collection in both the laboratory and field. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2008-2009.)
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141. Biology 200 recommended. Math 111 or equivalent suggested.
209. Embryology.
Spring. Credits: 4.
A study of the morphological changes that occur in animals from fertilization of an egg to birth. This anatomically-based course will focus on the development of the major organ systems and body plan of vertebrates, including comparisons of developmental patterns among vertebrates and understanding what happens when the patterns are disrupted to produce birth defects. Class meetings will be predominantly lecture with some laboratory work. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2009-2010.)
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
212. Environmental Issues in Southern Africa.
Spring. Credits: 2.
Degree Requirements: F11.
An interdisciplinary examination of the environmental issues of a region of the world famous for its captivating scenery, immense richness and dire scarcity of natural resources, and cultural diversity of its people. Special attention will be devoted to the role of parks and community-based conservation projects in achieving a balance between people’s needs and wildlife conservation. By itself, this course does not satisfy an upper level requirement for the Biology major; when combined with Biology 214 it satisfies a requirement for an upper level course with laboratory. Class meetings will be predominantly lecture with some laboratory work. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2009-2010.)
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141; or Biology 105: Environmental Science; or permission of instructor.
213. Environmental Issues in Southern Africa Tutorial.
Spring. Credits: 2.
This course is intended for students who are taking Biology 212 and want to earn 2 additional credits to fulfill the requirement for an upper level Biology course without lab. Students will research relevant issues in the field of conservation biology in southern Africa, such as species conservation, transboundary parks, and human-wildlife conflicts and solutions. A research paper and a final presentation are required.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Co-requisite: Biology 212 (Note that Biology 213 can only be taken concurrently with 212, but 212 can be taken without 213.)
214. Environmental Field Study in Namibia.
Summer. Credits: 2.
An in-country exploration of the major environmental issues of Namibia, one of the world’s most arid and most beautiful countries. Students will spend three weeks in the region, visiting different ecosystems, such as the Namib Desert, dry thornveld savannas, and the Kalahari sands. They will meet with indigenous people, NGOs, and governmental officers involved in local environmental issues. Rhino tracking and lion darting can be part of the educational experience during this field study trip. This course emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning and is meant to challenge students’ world-view to enable them to increase their awareness and knowledge of our global society. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2009-2010.)
Prerequisites: Biology 212.
240, 240L. Plant Physiology.
Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
An examination of physiological processes that operate in vascular plants. The course will emphasize water relations, photosynthesis and gas exchange, hormonal control of tropistic responses, plant development, and mineral recycling. Laboratory work will be conducted on both the molecular and whole plant levels.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
253. Coral Reef Ecology.
Spring. Credits: 2.
Half of this course will deal with coral reef ecology primary literature to gain an in-depth understanding of coral reef processes. It will provide a strong foundation for students continuing with Biology 254. The other half of this course will emphasize biological field techniques, biological classification, and processes dealing with coral reef ecology. By itself, this course does not satisfy an upper level requirement for the Biology major; when combined with Biology 254 it satisfies a requirement for an upper level course with laboratory.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141 and permission of instructor.
254. Coral Reef Ecology.
Summer. Credits: 2.
Degree Requirements: Natural Science, F11.
This intensive two-week field course exposes students to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef ecosystem. This course will be given at The Institute of Marine Sciences, Roatan, Bay Islands during two weeks in May-June.
Prerequisites: Biology 253.
301, 301L. Microbiology.
Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
The study of microorganisms from all major organizational perspectives (genetics, physiology, phylogeny, etc.). Principal emphasis will be placed on prokaryotic microorganisms and the importance of their basic metabolic patterns in defining the roles that they play in nature (focusing on the cause of disease). The laboratory emphasizes the development of skills in isolation and characterization of bacteria.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
304, 304L. Genetics.
Fall. Credits: 4, 1.
The study of the transmission of genetic factors in eukaryotic model systems. Principle emphasis will be placed on the analysis of heredity, genes as functional units, and phenotypes resulting from regulated gene expression. Laboratory exercises include experimental genetic screens and their analysis.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
307. Cell Biology.
Fall. Credits: 4.
An advanced treatment of the organization and functions of eukaryotic cells. Primary emphasis will be placed on the role of biological membranes in such cellular activities as nutrition, secretion, signal transduction, and energy transformations. Emphasis will also be placed on the role of proteins in motility and the regulation of cell metabolism. By itself, this course satisfies an upper level requirement without laboratory for the Biology major; when combined with BCMB 310, it satisfies a requirement for an upper level course with laboratory (see the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program under Interdisciplinary Study).
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131.
315, 315L. Ecology.
Fall. Credits: 4, 1.
A broad study of concepts in the science of ecology. This course stresses the biotic and abiotic interactions which determine the distribution and abundance of organisms. The laboratory component consists of both on-campus laboratory work and intensive aquatic field experiences including at least one overnight outing. Students with organismal and environmental interests desiring a field component are encouraged to participate. Day-long weekend fieldtrips at the beginning of the course are required.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
320, 320L. Conservation Biology
Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
An interdisciplinary examination of the science of conservation of biological diversity at gene, population, species, and ecosystem levels. Learning the theories and practice of conservation biology and critically evaluating strategies adopted to prevent loss of biodiversity are the main objectives of this course. Laboratories and field work are designed to make the students familiar with research methods and tools used by conservation biologists. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2008-2009.)
Prerequisites: One course in Biology or permission of instructor.
325, 325L. Molecular Biology. Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
A study of the structure and function of genes at the molecular level. Topics include the synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins and the mechanisms of gene expression and control in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. An emphasis will be placed on the design, analysis, and interpretation of classic and contemporary experiments. The laboratory component will teach the student how to conduct and interpret experiments in molecular biology including isolation of DNA, gel electrophoresis, recombinant DNA cloning, and DNA sequencing within the context of specific projects.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131; Chemistry 111, 111L.
330. Virology/Immunology.
Fall. Credits: 4.
Approximately one quarter of the course is devoted to Virology, including the structural basis for classification of viruses and both viral and host aspects of virus infection and replication. The remainder of the course provides an overview of the vertebrate immune system, focusing mainly on specific mechanisms of cellular and humoral immunity. (Course offered in alternate years; scheduled for 2008-2009.)
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
340, 340L. Animal Physiology.
Fall. Credits: 4, 1.
A study of the organs and organ systems of animals using both physical and chemical relationships to describe their functional activities and roles in controlling the animal’s internal environment. Although primary emphasis will be placed on the vertebrates, the diversity of physiological adaptations of invertebrates will also be examined. Laboratory investigations will include studies of the nervous system responses to external stimuli, functional diversity of vertebrate muscles, regulation of vertebrate cardiac activity, blood pressure and respiration, and regulation of vertebrate salt and water balance. Laboratory experiments will involve the careful and humane use of live vertebrates as research models. Laboratories are scheduled for 4 hours each week. This course satisfies an upper level course with laboratory requirement for the major.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
350, 350P. Comparative Vertebrate Morphology.
Fall. Credits: 4, 1.
A comparative approach to the study of vertebrate anatomy, emphasizing evolution, development, and functional significance. This course focuses on the morphological patterns shared by vertebrates. Laboratories will involve dissection of representative vertebrates. Two lecture sessions and not less than 4 hours of lecture/practicum per week.
Prerequisites: Biology 140, 141.
360, 360L. Histology.
Fall. Credits: 4, 1.
A study of the microscopic features of animal cells, tissues and organs. This course emphasizes the relationship between microscopic form and function starting with a brief overview of cells and progressing through the different mammalian organ systems.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
365, 365L. Advanced Topics in Biology
Fall or Spring. Credits: 4 or 4, 1.
Introduction to selected advanced biology topics. Topics vary with instructor. May be repeated for credit when topics differ. Course offering may or may not have a laboratory credit associated with the class. Not offered every year. Course may include the equivalent of 3 hours of laboratory each week.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141; or permission of instructor.
370, 370L. Neuroscience.
Spring. Credits: 4, 1.
A study of the structural and functional aspects of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Topics covered may range from the processes involved in communication within individual cells of the nervous system to higher order human brain functions such as learning, memory, states of sleep and consciousness, and the physiological regulation of emotions and behavior. Laboratory investigations will give students hands-on experience in electrophysiology, biophysics, and cell biology, and will include studies of intracellular signals of excitable cells, cell culture and investigations of growth and development of the nervous system. Laboratories are scheduled for 4 hours each week.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
380. Topics in Biomedical Science.
Spring or Fall. Credits: 4.
A topical exploration of the connection between basic biomedical science and its clinical significance. Four topics are covered during the semester. Each topic is taught by a St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital post-doctoral fellow; a Rhodes faculty member directs the course. Each topic consists of a presentation of pertinent background information on basic scientific principles, reading and discussion of secondary and primary literature within the research area of the post-doctoral fellow, and discussion of potential clinical significance of the research. Some class sessions may be held at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; students are responsible for transportation.
Prerequisites: Biology 130, 131 and 140, 141.
451-452. Research in Biology.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 1-4.
Qualified students may conduct original laboratory or field research in biology. A student may use four credits of research or a combination of two credits from BCMB 310 combined with research credit to total four credits to satisfy one of the upper level requirements in Biology. Interested students should consult the appropriate Biology faculty member. At least three hours per week per credit, weekly conferences with faculty sponsor, written report at the end of the semester.
Prerequisites: permission of sponsoring faculty member.
460. Internship in Biology.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 1-4.
Degree Requirements: F11.
The Internship Program is designed to introduce students to practical applications of their academic work. Students may work off campus under professional supervision in fields related to the biological sciences, such as health care, laboratory diagnosis, forensics, environmental protection, agriculture. Students will be required to integrate academic and work experiences in a written report due at the end of the internship. No more than 4 credits per semester for no more than two semesters; at least three hours involvement per week per credit. Pass/Fail credit only. Biology 460 does not satisfy an upper level Biology course requirement for the major.
Prerequisites: permission of departmental internship program director.
485-486. Senior Seminar.
Fall ,Spring. Credits: 4.
All Biology majors are required to enroll in Senior Seminar during one semester of their senior year. Senior Seminar is intended to be a broad, integrative experience in Biology, requiring both oral and written work.
495-496. Honors Tutorial.
Fall, Spring. Credits: 4-6,4-6.
Open to candidates for honors in biology. Includes supervised honors research and instruction in a biological field of study.
Prerequisites: Minimum GPA of 3.5 and departmental permission.
