BIOL112 Evolution and Genetics with Lab
(co-taught with J. Langeland in Fall; solo in Winter)
An introduction to principles of evolution and genetics. Includes a comprehensive overview of genetics from molecular, classical, and population perspectives, as well as in-depth treatment of evolutionary mechanisms, phylogenetic analysis, and the history of life on Earth. Laboratories include the purification and analysis of DNA, Drosophila and bacterial genetics, computer and class simulations of evolutionary processes, and bioinformatics.
BIOL295 Computational Tools for Biologists with Lab
Students progress through the biology major at Kalamazoo College learning about many laboratory tools that biologists use to perform research. One tool that is essential for modern biologists is the personal computer. Simply put: modern biology research requires a working knowledge of computers and scripting. This course introduces students to their personal computer and teaches them the possibilities of basic shell use, scripting (with the Python language), simple relational database creation and use, and micro-controller engineering and programming with the Arduino platform in a practical, problem-based framework. This course aims to help sophomores/juniors learn these skills in preparation for their SIP research and future biology research.
BIOL322 General and Medical Microbiology with Lab
This course includes a general introduction to microbiology including structure and function, growth, nutrition, metabolism, genetics, roles of microorganisms in the biogeochemical cycles, and water microbiology. This is followed by in-depth coverage of symbioses involving microorganisms, including the pathogenesis of infectious diseases.
Prerequisites: BIOL 112, 123.
BIOL482 Topics in Biology: The Symbiotic Habit
(co-taught with A. Wollenberg)
A comprehensive overview of current symbiosis research literature, focusing on animal-
microbe and plant-microbe relationships and with a special emphasis on the human microbiome. This course will highlight both model and non-model based approaches for understanding topics spanning the ecology to the molecular biology of symbiotic relationships. Students will be responsible for reading primary literature in preparation for discussion, oral presentation, and concise scientific writing.
Prerequisites BIOL 112, 123, 224, and 246.
BIOL 495 Topics in Biology: SARS-CoV-2 & COVID19
2020 has been defined by a global pandemic caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. This course examines the biology, origin, and spread of SARS-CoV-2 and epidemiology and public health responses to COVID19. In this course, students will use both peer-reviewed scientific publications and more general literature (e.g. news articles, non-profit publications, statistical websites) to better understand the biology of SARS-CoV-2 and its effects on individuals and populations.
Prerequisites BIOL 224, and 246.