Courses

A systematic approach to the reading, analyzing, and understanding of primary literature in genetics; emphasis will be placed on data analysis and experimental design and demystifying the process of reading a scientific journal article.

Introduction to the use of computers and computer programming to develop applications for research in genetics and molecular biology. Application topics will include evolutionary genetics, association analysis and genetics mapping, and structural biology.

In this course, we examine human health from an evolutionary perspective, exploring the impact that our evolutionary heritage has on modern human diseases, both chronic and infectious. We will learn how the framework of evolutionary biology and modern genetic tools can inform our understanding of issues relevant to clinical and public health. Rather than focus on the immediate mechanisms underlying disease, we will endeavor to understand the ultimate factors that influence susceptibility, such as past natural selection. The course topics are wide-ranging, but particular attention is paid to emerging infectious diseases, as well as non-communicable diseases that may be exacerbated by facets of modern lifestyles.

Through lectures, critical analysis of the primary literature and popular science news, and class discussions, students will learn how evolutionary principles can be practically applied to medicine. Key readings each session will focus on genetic techniques for understanding evolutionary medicine, while additional readings will incorporate perspectives from diverse fields.

Microorganisms are an essential component of the human environment and are significant not only for the disease they cause, but also for their ecological, agricultural, pharmaceutical, and industrial benefits. This course will introduce students to the physiology, morphology, pathogenicity, and genetics of groups of microorganisms and their applications. The lab component of the course will introduce microscopy and staining techniques, the growth cycle and generation of a standard curve, physiological characteristics of microorganisms, and bacterial transformation. The course is an introduction to the physiology, morphology, pathogenicity, and genetics of groups of microorganisms. Topics include: History and Overview of Microbiology, Cell Structure and function, Microbial Growth, Nutrition, culture, and metabolism, Virology, Bacterial genetics, Microbial evolution and systematics, Bacteria and Archaea, Nutrient cycles, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Waste treatment, Anaerobic respiration and Nitrogen fixation, Antibiotics and chemotherapeutic agents, Normal Flora, Virulence, Toxins, Epidemiology, and Microbial Diseases.

This is an upper-level course that focuses on the basic principles of microbiology. The course is an introduction to the physiology, morphology, pathogenicity, and genetics of groups of microorganisms. Topics include:

Compulsive urge can be channeled toward productive endeavors such as a strong drive to succeed in competitions, schooling, and career. On the other hand, improper handling of compulsive urge may lead to problematic behaviors such as alcoholism, drug use, gambling, and other undesirable behaviors. There are also conditions that are medically defined as disorders, with certain types of compulsive behaviors as part of the diagnostic symptoms, such as OCD and ADD/ADHD.  There is evidence that genetics contribute to compulsive behavior in humans, and research in animal models has begun to uncover the molecular factors that underlie the genetic basis of compulsive behavior. Discussion of primary literature and other scientific publications that deal with the molecular and genetic basis of compulsive behavior. Emphasis will be placed on the development of skills for critical thinking and effective writing.