Biology Course Descriptions

An introductory course focusing on human reproduction to demonstrate some basic biological principles. The course includes discussion of cellular and organismal processes related to the development of human biological complexity. Current research in reproductive biology and its impact on the individual and society is considered. Lecture and laboratory. Primarily for non-science majors; credit not applicable to the biology major.

An examination of basic biological principles underlying current biotechnology in the fields of human genetics and genetic engineering. Discussion of methods of basic scientific research, the impact of technology on society, and ethical problems in human and agricultural genetics. Credit not applicable to biology major. Weekly laboratories will introduce basic experimental methodology and procedures.

An exploration of fundamental cellular processes in an evolutionary context including homeostasis, cell cycle, gene expression, energy transformation, inheritance, and multi-cellular development. Experimental approaches will be emphasized. Lecture and laboratory. BIOL 130 is primarily offered to serve students exploring majors in Biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, and Environmental Science. A student looking for a laboratory course in the natural sciences in order to fulfil a general education requirement, might be better served taking courses such as BIOL 103 or BIOL 100. PREREQUISITES: First-year or second-year standing: consent of instructor required for juniors and seniors. Simultaneous enrollment in BIOL 130 and BIOL 131 required for first- and second-year students.

Students will engage in peer-led-team-learning in which small teams of students participate in a variety of learning, team-building activities, and problem-solving using current course content with upper-class facilitators. The course will include discussion of collaboration skills, intersectionality, and college-level learning. Simultaneous enrollment in BIOL 130 is required. BIOL 131 is required of all first- and second-year students in BIOL 130. Enrollment of students beyond their second year is optional. PREREQUISITES: Simultaneous enrollment in BIOL 130 BIOL 131 required for first- and second-year students

This course introduces the mechanisms of biological evolution that have resulted in earth’s rich diversity of life. We will explore the ways in which populations change, species interact, communities are structured and ecosystems function through an evolutionary lens. Connections to global crises related to human-driven processes, such as climate change, land use change, and disease spread will make these basic concepts germane to our lives, and underscore the interdependence of human and environmental health. A weekly laboratory will provide opportunities to practice field ecology research and run evolutionary lab experiments. BIOL 135 is primarily offered to serve students exploring majors in Biology, Environmental Science, and Environmental Studies. A student looking for a laboratory course in the natural sciences in order to fulfil a general education requirement, might be better served taking courses such as BIOL 103 or BIOL 100.

Development, morphology, physiology, and ecology of plants, animals, fungi and unicellular organisms will be compared in evolutionary context. Phylogenic relationships, ecological interactions, and ecosystem processes will be explored. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 or departmental examination

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

A lecture and field-study course examining the principles and problems of animal behavior. Subjects include orientation, feeding, locomotion, communication, escape in time and space, biological rhythms, mate choice, and aspects of social behavior, examined from evolutionary, ontogenetic, physiological, ecological, and ethological perspectives. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150

An introduction to the study of plants with an emphasis on their structure, development, physiology, and diversity. Although this course is lecture-based, students will frequently interact with plants from the Lawrence University greenhouse.

Topics covered will include a survey of all of the clades of insects with information on the systematics, diversity, ecology, life history, behavior and unique characteristics of each lineage. Lecture material will be augmented with required field trips to collect local species (terrestrial and aquatic) and the creation of a personal collection of species following the format as is customary for museum collections. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150 and sophomore standing

A study of microbial life with an emphasis on prokaryotes. Microbial physiology is examined in the context of how unique characteristics allow microbes to exploit a vast diversity of environments, including the human body. Lecture Only. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 and BIOL 150, CHEM 116 recommended

A study of microbial life with an emphasis on prokaryotes. Microbial physiology is examined in the context of how unique characteristics allow microbes to exploit a vast diversity of environments, including the human body. Laboratory exercises introduce students to techniques used to safely study microorganisms. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 and BIOL 150, CHEM 116 recommended

An introduction to the interactions between organisms and the environment. Explores the role of physical, chemical and biotic processes--including human activities--in determining the structure and function of populations, communities, and ecosystems. Topics include resource availability, competition, predation, symbiosis and natural and anthropogenic disturbances such as disease, biological invasions, pollution and climate change. Lecture only.

An introduction to the interactions between organisms and the environment. Explores the role of physical, chemical and biotic processes--including human activities--in determining the structure and function of populations, communities, and ecosystems. Topics include resource availability, competition, predation, symbiosis and natural and anthropogenic disturbances such as disease, biological invasions, pollution and climate change. Lecture and laboratory.

A study of biological evolution, including natural selection, adaptation, the evolution of sex, speciation, extinction, and constraints on evolutionary change. Reading primary literature is emphasized. Two lectures and one discussion per week. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 or ANTH 141

An integrated lecture and laboratory course that undertakes the study of the structure and function of vertebrate organ systems through examination of morphology. Vertebrate ontogeny, phylogeny, and anatomy are addressed. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150

A comparative study of the variety of solutions and adaptations diverse animals can make to similar problems — obtaining and transporting oxygen, maintaining water and salt balance, utilizing food, movement, and nervous and hormonal integration. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150, CHEM 116 recommended

This course explores scientific concepts related to the conservation and restoration of Earth's biological diversity. Topics include patterns of species and ecosystem diversity, the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, causes of extinction, assessing extinction risk, behavioral indicators, in-situ and ex-situ management strategies for endangered species, and ecosystem restoration. Lecture only. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 230 or BIOL 135

A lecture and laboratory study of the principles of inheritance, gene expression, introductory genomics, sex determination, and the concepts of historical and modern eugenics and genetic engineering. PREREQUISITES: Sophomore standing and BIOL 130 or ANTH 141

This course explores fundamental cycles between earth's major reservoirs of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, carbon and water. Through lecture and group presentations, students will gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of biogeochemical cycles and the mechanism underlying the biological transformations of those elements. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 or GEOL 110

Biophysics explores processes at the interface between biology and physics. This course uses physical principles to build mathematical and computational models of living systems. Students will learn to create models, compare models with experimental data, and refine their understanding of the living systems using these physics-based models. PREREQUISITES: Physics 151 or BIOL 170/BIOL 280

An introduction to experimental and sampling design in the fields of biology and biochemistry, as well as methods of data analysis and interpretation. The connection between statistical analysis and experimental design will be emphasized. Topics include descriptive, exploratory, and confirmatory statistical analyses. Lecture and computer laboratory. This course was previously known as BIOL 170. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150 or consent of instructor

A course in human anatomy only intended for students entering the allied health professions (e.g. nursing, PA, PT, athletic training) or forensic anthropology. Students learn detailed anatomy using full-size human models. Students are expected to learn structures of the skeletal, muscular, nervous (sensory included), circulatory, digestive, respiratory, urogenital, and endocrine systems. Emphasis is on the anatomy, particularly in the laboratory component of the course, but basic physiology is also covered. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150 or ANTH 141

Survey of the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, the basic functional unit of life. Correlation of cellular structures including organelles, proteins, and membranes with functions such as cellular communication, division, transport, movement, and secretory pathways will be analyzed. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 and BIOL 150, BIOL 170/BIOL 280 recommended

The principles of the ecology of fresh waters, developed through discussions, laboratory, and field investigations of the functional relationships and productivity of biotic communities as they are affected by the dynamics of physical, chemical, and biotic parameters. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150 or BIOL 170/BIOL 280 (or concurrent enrollment) or BIOL 230

This course emphasizes core concepts in ecology and evolution from the unique perspective of plants. Students will explore the interactions between plants and their environment over a range of scales; from individuals to populations and communities. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 170/BIOL 280

A study of the nervous system from the perspectives of psychology and biology. Topics vary year to year and may include glial cells, neural development, and the evolution of nervous systems and neurotransmitter systems. Lecture only. May be repeated when topic is different.

Topic for Fall 2024: Biopsychology of Parenting
PREREQUISITES: CHEM 116, BIOL 150 and one course in psychology; or PSYC 360 and one course in biology; or consent of instructor This discussion-based course will explore the biological and psychological phenomena behind differences in parental practices. Particularly, we will address the physiological, hormonal, ecological and social bases of these differences. We will consider a variety of animal species, including humans.

A hands-on course intended to demonstrate basic ecological principles using local terrestrial ecosystems. Field research projects will introduce students to methods in hypothesis development, experimental design, data collection, statistical analysis, and scientific writing and presentation. Research topics will include estimating population size, community structure, plant-animal interactions, and foraging behavior. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150, BIOL 135, BIOL 280, and sophomore standing

An interdisciplinary examination of regulatory mechanisms leading to differential gene expression. Main topics include transcription, translation, gene and protein structure, and modern genomics. The application of current molecular techniques is emphasized throughout the course. Laboratory work is experimental in approach. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 and CHEM 115

An introduction to the methods and software used to analyze biological data. Through lecture and guided tutorials, students will learn the structure and organization of biological databases, explore methods for examining genomic and proteomic data sets, and examine specific case studies relating to evolution, drug discovery and human variation. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 260

An examination of how the body maintains homeostasis. The various physiological systems (e.g., respiratory and cardiovascular) will be studied at multiple levels of organization, from molecular and cellular to the macroscopic. This course is primarily aimed at students entering the health sciences. The course will have both lectures and a laboratory component. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150

This analytical and writing course trains students on the use of advanced analytical methods common in biological data analysis. Students complete analyses in the R programming software and work on individual datasets. Extensive writing about analytical methods, appropriate applications of analyses, and interpretations of these analyses from a large portion of this course. Lecture only with a term-long project required. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 170/BIOL 280 or consent of instructor.

An integrated lecture and computer laboratory introduction to the process of developing mathematical descriptions of the interactions between components of a population, community, or ecosystem, and the use of computer simulation as a tool for understanding ecology and natural resource management. Topics include population growth, predator-prey and competitor interactions, biogeochemical cycling, and mass balance in ecosystems. PREREQUISITES: At least one of the following: BIOL 229, BIOL 230, BIOL 245, BIOL 330, BIOL 335 or BIOL 345

This course explores the ecology happening all around us in urban spaces. Students will learn foundational ecological principles and observe how these impact natural resource management and sustainability in cities. Students will have multiple field-trips to observe ecology and sustainability initiatives in action around the Fox Cities. They will also work closely in reviewing sustainability planning and projects on campus and in the community. PREREQUISITES: BIOL135 or ENST 150

Individual investigations of problems in biology. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

The academic component of the internship includes readings related to the substance of the internship, discussions with the faculty supervisor, and a written report appropriate to the discipline. Course grades are based on this academic work.

Individual, in-depth investigation of a specific biological problem. Students contemplating an honors project should register for this course. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

This course will dive into the fundamentals of Forest Ecology, building off foundational knowledge in Earth and Environmental sciences. We will begin the course with discussions and intensive readings mixed in with primary scientific literature and talking with experts in forest ecology, including practitioners in the Department of Natural Resources and the Northeast Wisconsin and Door County land trusts. Students will build advanced practical skills of nature resource management in forest environments, while honing their speaking and written communication skills. A Bjorklunden trip to assess and design a forest ecological management plan is an essential part of this course (mandatory), will be complemented by field trips to local State Parks, Forests, and Conservation Organizations. Each student will present their final component of a forest ecology management plan, as a final term project. PREREQUISITES: PREREQUISITES: GEOS 110, GEOS 150 or BIOL 135 in addition to a 200-level course, or permission of instructor

Earth is a dynamic and changing planet, comprised of tightly linked ecosystems and organisms. In this course we explore relationships between the biotic and abiotic drivers that influence the distribution of global diversity. We use large-scale datasets to develop practical skills for monitoring the responses of biodiversity to environmental change. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150 and BIOL 170/BIOL 280; preferred but not required: BIOL 230 and BIOL 235

This course will cover the basic concepts of immunology, including differentiation of immune cells, antibody structure and function, antigen-antibody reactions, the major-histocompatibility complex, the complement system, immune responses to pathogens, allergies and auto-immune diseases, and comparative immunology. The course will also examine recent advances in the field through current peer-reviewed publications. The weekly laboratory will examine the basic questions, experimental subjects, and procedures of the field. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130, BIOL 150, and junior standing; or consent of instructor

This course will cover the basic concepts of immunology, including differentiation of immune cells, antibody structure and function, antigen-antibody reactions, the major-histocompatibility complex, the complement system, immune responses to pathogens, allergies and auto-immune diseases and comparative immunology. The course will also examine recent advances in the field through current peer-reviewed publications. Lecture only. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130, BIOL 150, and junior standing; or consent of instructor

Study of the transfer and transformation of energy or energy-containing materials between and within organisms and populations. Discussions will cover food web structure and function across marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments. Part of the Marine Biology Term. Lecture only. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 330, concurrent enrollment in BIOL 505 and 226 and consent of instructor

Field and laboratory experimental investigations of the transfer and transformation of energy or energy-containing materials between and within organisms and populations of aquatic ecosystems. Part of the Marine Biology Term. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 330, concurrent enrollment in BIOL 505 and 226 and consent of instructor

An introduction to the study of biological processes at the molecular level with emphases on protein struction and function, enzyme mechanism and kinetics, fundamentals of physical biochemistry, and the chemistry of biological molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. PREREQUISITES: CHEM 250 or concurrent enrollment, or consent of instructor

A course designed to offer students an opportunity to study important issues in biology not covered in other regularly offered classes. Activities may include reading and analysis of material from primary literature, consideration of interdisciplinary connections, and field and laboratory activities.

Topic for Fall 2024: Herpetology
PREREQUISITES: BIOL 130 and BIOL 150, or consent of instructor This course provides an in-depth exploration of the scientific study of amphibians and reptiles. Students will examine the global diversity of these fascinating creatures, delving into their natural history, ecology, evolution, and conservation. In addition to studying amphibians and reptiles, students will gain a broader understanding of various biological disciplines—including diversity, taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, and biogeography—through detailed examples involving these species. A portion of the course will be dedicated to understanding the species native to Wisconsin. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the critical roles amphibians and reptiles play in their ecosystems and the challenges they face in the modern world.

An experimental approach to animal development with laboratory and lecture emphasis on molecular and cellular processes of embryogenesis. Includes discussions of pattern formation, differentiation, cell interactions, gametogenesis and fertilization. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 150; and one of the following (or concurrent enrollment): BIOL 354, BIOL 444/CHEM 340, BIOL 260, or BIOL 325

A continuation of Biochemistry I. A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on metabolic pathways, recent advances in biochemical medicine, and biochemical aspects of gene replication, protein synthesis, molecular motors, and sensing. The course is divided between lecture and discussion and will rely heavily on current biochemical literature. PREREQUISITES: CHEM 340 or consent of instructor

An advanced course that examines the ways in which fundamental principles of biochemistry and molecular biology are transformed into technologies that revolutionize basic science, industrial processes, medicine, and agriculture. Lectures, discussions and laboratory work will focus on current primary literature and novel research questions. PREREQUISITES: CHEM 340, BIOL 354, or consent of instructor

A course designed for juniors who plan to do the biology senior experience. This course focuses on career exploration, professional development, and preparation for senior experience. Weekly presentations will be given by faculty, staff, and visiting researchers. Requirements include a resume, cover letter, a mock interview, and an annotated bibliography. Students planning to study off-campus fall term of their junior year should contact their academic advisor. PREREQUISITES: Junior standing or consent of instructor

Examines the ecology of coral reef environments. Lecture, laboratory, and field components. Part of the Marine Biology Term. Lecture and laboratory. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 330 and concurrent enrollment in BIOL 226 and BIOL 434

Develops and explores the physical principles underlying biological systems, with a particular emphasis on building quantitative models. Applies fundamental topics including thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, elasticity, and electrostatics to model molecular and cellular phenomena such as gene expression, virus assembly, DNA bending and stretching, and nerve impulses. PREREQUISITES: PHYS 151, and one of PHYS 230, CHEM 252, CHEM 340, or BIOL 354

Individual investigations of problems in biology. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Individual, in-depth investigation of a specific biological problem. Students contemplating an honors project should register for this course. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

A multidisciplinary lecture series on modern biological theory and research. Students attend seminars and prepare short summaries or “reaction papers” on topics covered. Biology faculty members and visiting scientists in biological and allied fields present seminars relating their research to the broader aspects of their disciplines. Topics discussed within any academic year provide a comprehensive exposure to the current frontiers of biological research. May be repeated for a maximum of three units. PREREQUISITES: Senior standing and declared major in biology, or consent of instructor

Senior capstone in which students will benefit from direct input and feedback on their scientific writing and oral presentation skills as they complete senior experience projects and papers. Successful completion of BIOL 650 includes participation in BioFest, a symposium of biology senior experience projects during spring term. PREREQUISITES: Major in biology or biochemistry, or in neuroscience with departmental approval; and senior class standing or departmental approval

BIOL 651 is the culmination of the biology senior experience in which students prepare and present their final project (e.g., scientific poster, video, educational application) at Biofest. Students will receive explicit instruction on effective visual communication. Requirements include the completion of a biology senior experience product and participation in Biofest. PREREQUISITES: BIOL 650

Individual investigations of problems in biology. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor

Directed study follows a syllabus set primarily by the instructor to meet the needs or interests of an individual student or small group of students. The main goal of directed study is knowledge or skill acquisition, not research or creative work. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor.

Individual, in-depth investigation of a specific biological problem. Students contemplating an honors project should register for this course. PREREQUISITES: To register student must complete the Student Initiated Course Form with consultation of supervising instructor