Courses
Taught by Vanja Klepac-Ceraj
BISC 110
Introductory Cellular and Molecular Biology
Lecture and Lab
A foundation course that focuses on the study of life at the cellular and molecular level, including eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structure, function of biological macromolecules, molecular genetics, cellular metabolism, and key topics in cell biology.
Lab focuses on experimental approaches to the study of life at the cellular and molecular level
BISC 209
Microbiology
Lecture and Lab
Introduction to bacteria, archaea, viruses, and eukaryotic microorganisms. Overview of the microbial world including a survey of the morphology, structure, function, and diversity of microorganisms and microbial effects on the environment. Introduction to the fundamental concepts of microbial evolution, genomics, metabolism, ecology, genetics, pathogenesis, and immunity.
Investigation-based laboratories focused on microbial ecology, microbial interactions and molecular genetics will provide students with experience in classical and modern techniques.
BISC 313
Advances in Human Microbiome Research
Seminar
Introduction to the rapidly evolving field of human microbiome research. Key topics include an overview of the human microbiome, advances in technologies, microbial diversity and function and its role in health and disease. Through a combination of lectures, critical analysis of recent research papers, and discussions, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the human microbiome's complexity and its significance in health and disease. This course aims to equip students with the knowledge to critically evaluate current research and contemplate the future direction of this exciting field, with an emphasis on ethical and responsible scientific practice.
Image credit: Alexa Gross '21
BISC 314
Environmental Microbiology
Lecture and Lab
This course explores current advances in our understanding of microbial diversity, community structure, metabolic activities and interactions between microbes. Topics span the microbial ecology of natural environments including the human body. Student participation and discussion of original scientific literature are emphasized.
In lab, students use fermented foods as a model system to investigate different environmental variables driving microbial interactions and community stability. Students characterize microorganisms, microbial communities, and microbial interactions using a suite of classical and molecular techniques.
