2024-2025 Catalog

BIOS 10098. Pizza with the PIs: Introduction to Biology Research at The University of Chicago. 000 Units.

This is an optional, non-credit course for students interested in carrying out research at the University of Chicago. It provides students with an opportunity to get to know the research faculty, identify potential labs to join, and be inspired by the research advances happening on our campus. Each week, a different faculty member from any of the various departments in the Biological Sciences Division (BSD) will present their own research work in a 50 minute, lunch-time seminar. Registration for the course is required to be able to attend these seminars. Pizza will be served.

Instructor(s): N. Bhasin     Terms Offered: Spring Winter
Prerequisite(s): This course is for prospective biology majors only. Students should have attended, or be enrolled in, at least one quarter of any Fundamentals sequence in biology.
Note(s): This course is non-credit. Students will get a grade of P/F based on attendance at 7 out of 9 weekly seminars. This course can be taken along-with 4 other regular courses and the grade of P/F from this course will not affect student GPA. This course does not confer any credit towards the biology major, biology minor, or general education requirement in biology.

BIOS 20170. Microbial and Human Cell Biology. 100 Units.

This course is the entry point into an integrated biology sequence designed to prepare non-biology majors for application to schools in the health professions. We explore topics in human cell biology within the context of evolutionary biology, chemistry, microbiology, and medicine. We pay special attention to the influence of prokaryotes on the history of life and to the ecological interactions between humans and their microbiota, which have major implications for human health and disease. Students read and discuss papers from the scientific literature, attend discussions and gain experience with microbiological basic microscopy techniques in lab.

Instructor(s): C. Andrews, R. Bednarczyk     Terms Offered: Winter. L.
Prerequisite(s): This sequence is open only to students who are not planning to major in Biological Sciences or Biological Chemistry and cannot be applied to either of these majors. It is recommended that students start the sequence in their first or second year.

BIOS 20171. Human Genetics and Developmental Biology. 100 Units.

This course covers the fundamentals of genetics, with an emphasis on human traits and diseases. Topics include Mendelian genetics, simple and complex traits, genetic diseases, the human genome, and testing for human traits and diseases. After establishing a foundation in genetics, we will discuss mechanisms underlying differentiation and development in humans. We will focus on events that lead to gastrulation and the establishment of the body plan (how humans develop from an un-patterned egg into a recognizable human form). Other topics may include limb development and stem cell biology.

Instructor(s): O. Pineda-Catalan, R. Dutt.     Terms Offered: Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): Not open to students who have not completed BIOS 20170. Must be taken concurrently with BIOS 20172.

BIOS 20172. Mathematical Modeling for Pre-Med Students. 100 Units.

This course covers mathematical approaches in biology and medicine, including basic statistics and hypothesis testing, mathematical modeling of biological systems, and an introduction to bioinformatics. Students will apply what they learn as they analyze data and interpret primary papers in the biological and clinical literature. BIOS 20172 lays the foundation for biomathematical approaches explored during subsequent courses in the BIOS 20170s sequence.

Instructor(s): E. Haddadian, R. Dutt.     Terms Offered: Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): Not open to students who have not completed BIOS 20170. Must be taken concurrently with BIOS 20171.

BIOS 20173. Perspectives of Human Physiology. 100 Units.

This course will explore the structure and function of the human body as a set of integrated, interdependent systems. We will continue the cellular, genetic, and developmental themes of the previous courses to explore the emergent functions of the human body, from cells to systems. The laboratory exercises will allow the students to experience the concepts discussed in lecture in a way that introduces them to the methods of academic research, including the application of mathematical models to physiological questions. Students will be asked to serve as test subjects in several of the laboratory exercises. Required weekly discussions include student presentations on papers from the scientific literature.

Instructor(s): C. Andrews, M. Osadjan.     Terms Offered: Autumn. L.
Prerequisite(s): Not open to students who have not completed all previous courses in this sequence: BIOS 20170, BIOS 20171 & BIOS 20172.

BIOS 20175. Biochemistry and Metabolism. 100 Units.

The course introduces cellular biochemical metabolism. The chemical characteristics, biochemical properties, and function of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids are introduced. Basic protein structure and enzyme kinetics including basic allosteric interactions are considered. The integration of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids in cellular intermediary metabolism is examined including pathway regulation and bioenergetics. Adaptation of the pathways to changes in nutritional or disease state is used to highlight interrelationships in cellular metabolism.

Instructor(s): Wen Yi Low     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): This course is not open to students who have not completed all previous courses in this sequence (BIOS 20170, BIOS 20171, BIOS 20172 & BIOS 20173).

BIOS 20151. Introduction to Quantitative Modeling in Biology. 100 Units.

The goal for this course is to give future biologists the quantitative tools to fully participate in modern biological research. These include descriptive statistics, linear regression, stochastic independence and hypothesis testing, Markov models and stationary probability distributions, solutions of linear differential equations, equilibria and stability analysis of nonlinear differential equations. The ideas are applied to different areas of biology, e.g. molecular evolution, allometry, epidemiology, and biochemistry, and implemented by students in computer assignments using the R computational platform.

Instructor(s): Section 1: D. Kondrashov; Section 2: A. Basu, K. Bader.     Terms Offered: Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): Two quarters of calculus of any sequence (MATH 13200 or 15200 or 16200). First-year Biology Major standing only.
Note(s): This course is required to partially fulfill the general education requirement in biology for Biological Sciences majors in all tracks except for students in the Advanced Biology sequence. This course cannot be used as a Topics course for the general education requirement for non-Biological Sciences majors.

BIOS 20153. Fundamentals of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. 100 Units.

This course surveys the basic principles of ecology and evolutionary biology to lay the foundation for further study in all fields of biology. Broad ecological concepts, such as population growth, disease dynamics, and species interactions, will be explored through a combination of published data, simulations, and mathematical models. The emphasis is placed on "ecological thinking". Essential topics in the modern study of evolutionary biology will be covered with a focus on both theory and empirical examples. Examples of topics include history of evolutionary thought, evidence for evolution, mechanisms of microevolution, phylogenetics, molecular evolution, and speciation.

Instructor(s): C. Brook, P. Muralidhar, C. Andrews, A. Hunter.      Terms Offered: Winter. L.
Note(s): This course is required to partially fulfill the general education requirement in biology for Biological Sciences majors in all tracks, except for students taking the Advanced Biology sequence.

BIOS 10053. Collaborative Learning in Biology: Ecology & Evolution. 000 Units.

Optional, limited enrollment workshop for students concurrently enrolled in BIOS 20153. An Instructional Professor or Team Leader will guide small groups of students in weekly workshops. Students will analyze problem sets designed to complement, but not duplicate, assignments and material in Ecology & Evolution. Students will work collaboratively in small groups on assigned problems, with reference to course materials such as lecture notes and assigned texts. These workshops are also designed to develop communication skills and teamwork. Collaborative learning requires being present and engaged, so this zero-credit course is graded P/F based on student's participation and attendance.

Instructor(s): T. Sosa     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in BIOS 20153: Fundamentals of Ecology & Evolution.

BIOS 20186. Fundamentals of Cell and Molecular Biology. 100 Units.

This course is an introduction to molecular and cellular biology that emphasizes the unity of cellular processes amongst all living organisms. Topics are the structure, function, and synthesis of nucleic acids and protein; structure and function of cell organelles and extracellular matrices; energetics; cell cycle; cells in tissues and cell-signaling; temporal organization and regulation of metabolism; regulation of gene expression; and altered cell functions in disease states.

Instructor(s): Section 1: B. Glick, D. Kovar, C. Schonbaum; Section 2: R. Fehon, D. Pincus, P. Smith     Terms Offered: Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20153 & at least concurrent registration in 20151 or similar math prep. Avg. grade of C or higher in, and completion of, CHEM 10100-10200 or 11100-11200 or 12100-12200, a 5 on the AP Chem. exam, or consent. Reg. by lab sec.
Note(s): NSCI majors and other students may take BIO20186 without BIOS 20151 and 20153 unless they plan to pursue a double major in Biological Sciences. All students in BIOS 20186 will be expected to possess the competency in mathematical modeling of biological phenomena covered concurrently in BIOS 20151.

BIOS 10086. Collaborative Learning in Biology- Cell & Molecular Biology. 000 Units.

Optional, limited enrollment workshop for students concurrently enrolled in BIOS 20186 Fundamentals of Cell and Molecular Biology. An instructional professor will guide small groups of students in weekly workshops. Students will analyze problem sets designed to complement, but not duplicate, assignments and material in Cell and Molecular Biology. Students will work collaboratively in small groups on assigned problems, with reference to course materials such as lecture notes and assigned texts. These workshops are also designed to develop communication skills and teamwork. Collaborative learning requires being present and engaged, so this zero-credit course is graded P/F based on student's participation and attendance.

Instructor(s): T. Sosa     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in BIOS 20186.

BIOS 20187. Fundamentals of Genetics. 100 Units.

The goal of this course is to integrate recent developments in molecular genetics into the structure of classical genetics with an emphasis on recent advances in genetics and genomics. Topics include Mendelian inheritance, genotype-phenotype relationships, linkage analysis, modern gene mapping techniques, gene expression, model systems genetics and analysis of genetic pathways.

Instructor(s): Section 1: J. Malamy, H-C. Lee, C. Schonbaum. Section 2: E.Green, K. Butler, A. Brock.      Terms Offered: Autumn. L.
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20186

BIOS 10087. Collaborative Learning in Biology- Genetics. 000 Units.

Optional, limited enrollment workshop for students concurrently enrolled in BIOS 20187. An instructional professor will guide small groups of students in weekly workshops. Students will analyze problem sets designed to complement, but not duplicate, assignments and material in Genetics. Students will work collaboratively in small groups on assigned problems, with reference to course materials such as lecture notes and assigned texts. These workshops are also designed to develop communication skills and teamwork. Collaborative learning requires being present and engaged, so this zero-credit course is graded P/F based on student's participation and attendance.

Instructor(s): T. Sosa     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in BIOS 20187.

BIOS 20188. Fundamentals of Physiology. 100 Units.

This course focuses on the physiological problems that animals (including humans) face in natural environments; solutions to these problems that the genome encodes; and the emergent physiological properties of the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and organismal levels of organization. Lectures and labs emphasize physiological reasoning, problem solving, and current research.

Instructor(s): Winter: M. Osadjan; Spring: D. McGehee, M. Osadjan     Terms Offered: Spring Winter. L.
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20186 & 20187, or BIOS 20234 & 20235.

BIOS 10088. Collaborative Learning in Biology- Physiology. 000 Units.

Optional, limited enrollment workshop for students concurrently enrolled in BIOS 20188. An Instructional Professor or Team Leader will guide small groups of students in weekly workshops. Students will analyze problem sets designed to complement, but not duplicate, assignments and material in Physiology. Students will work collaboratively in small groups on assigned problems, with reference to course materials such as lecture notes and assigned texts. These workshops are also designed to develop communication skills and teamwork. Collaborative learning requires being present and engaged, so this zero-credit course is graded P/F based on student's participation and attendance.

Instructor(s): T. Sosa     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Concurrent enrollment in BIOS 20188.

BIOS 20189. Fundamentals of Developmental Biology. 100 Units.

This course covers both the classical experiments that contributed to our understanding of developmental biology and the recent explosion of information about development made possible by a combination of genetic and molecular approaches. Examples from both vertebrate and invertebrate systems are used to illustrate underlying principles of animal development.

Instructor(s): Winter: R. Ho, S. Horne-Badovinac, C. Schonbaum. Spring: W. Du, A. Imamoto, A. Brock.     Terms Offered: Spring Winter. L.
Prerequisite(s): BOIS 20186 & 20187.

BIOS 20200. Introduction to Biochemistry. 100 Units.

This course meets the biochemistry requirement in the Biological Sciences major. This course examines the chemical nature of cellular components, enzymes, and mechanisms of enzyme activity, energy interconversion, and biosynthetic reactions. Strong emphasis is given to control and regulation of metabolism through macromolecular interactions.

Instructor(s): M. Makinen, M. Zhao, E. Özkan, Staff.     Terms Offered: Autumn Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): Completion of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence with an average grade of C and CHEM 22000-22100/23100 with an average grade of C.
Note(s): GP. L.

BIOS 20234. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 100 Units.

This course covers the fundamentals of molecular and cellular biology. Topics include protein structure and function; DNA replication, repair, and recombination; transcription, translation, control of gene expression; cytoskeletal dynamics; protein modification and stability; cellular signaling; cell cycle control; mitosis; and meiosis.

Instructor(s): M. Glotzer, A. Ruthenburg, N. Bhasin. L.     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Score of 4 or 5 on the AP biology test or consent.
Note(s): To continue in the sequence, students must receive a minimum grade of B- in BIOS 20234

BIOS 20235. Biological Systems. 100 Units.

Students preparing for the health professions must take BIOS 20235 and 20188 in sequence. This course builds upon molecular cell biology foundations to explore how biological systems function. Topics include classical and molecular genetics, developmental signaling networks, genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and biological networks.

Instructor(s): I. Rebay, J. Novembre, N. Bhasin. L.     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): A grade of B- or above in BIOS 20234

BIOS 20236. Biological Dynamics. 100 Units.

This class introduces the use of quantitative approaches to study biological dynamics. Deeper exploration of cellular and developmental processes introduced in BIOS 20234 and BIOS 20235 will emphasize the use of quantitative analysis and mathematical modeling to infer biological mechanisms from molecular interactions. The lab portion of the class will introduce basic approaches for simulating biological dynamics using examples drawn from the lectures.

Instructor(s): E. Munro, M. Rust.     Terms Offered: Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20234 and BIOS 20235 with a minimum grade of B- in each course.

BIOS 20188. Fundamentals of Physiology. 100 Units.

This course focuses on the physiological problems that animals (including humans) face in natural environments; solutions to these problems that the genome encodes; and the emergent physiological properties of the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and organismal levels of organization. Lectures and labs emphasize physiological reasoning, problem solving, and current research.

Instructor(s): Winter: M. Osadjan; Spring: D. McGehee, M. Osadjan     Terms Offered: Spring Winter. L.
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20186 & 20187, or BIOS 20234 & 20235.

BIOS 21216. Introduction to Statistical Genetics. 100 Units.

In this course, we will cover the core concepts and statistical procedures that are used in the mapping of genetic traits from observational data. We will cover statistical techniques used in genome-wide association studies and tools for "post-GWAS" analysis. Proficiency in R programming and the command line needs to be achieved early on to keep up with the course's demanding homework problems.

Instructor(s): Xin He, Hae Kyung Im     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Students are expected to have had: • Strong statistics foundation from taking HGEN 47400 Introduction to Probability and Statistics for Geneticists, or STAT 24400 Statistical Theory and Methods I, or equivalent. Note that STAT 22000 or 24300 Statistical Models and Methods, are not sufficient. • An introductory course in genetics: BIOS 20187 Fundamental of Genetics or equivalent. • Knowledge of programming (R) and Unix command lines. Computational labs will quickly move towards using unix-command-line tools, file and data management, and the software package R. The course can be challenging for students unfamiliar with the Unix command line This course is catered toward graduate students in Genetics, Genomics, and Systems Biology. It is not an introductory course for undergrads who will need consent from the instructors.
Note(s): E. GP. CB.
Equivalent Course(s): HGEN 47100

BIOS 21236. Genetics of Model Organisms. 100 Units.

A small number of organisms have been chosen for extensive study by biologists. The popularity of these organisms derives largely from the fact that their genomes can be easily manipulated, allowing sophisticated characterization of biological function. This course covers modern methods for genetic analysis in budding yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster), plants (Arabidopsis thaliana), and mice (Mus musculus). Case studies demonstrate how particular strengths of each system have been exploited to understand such processes as genetic recombination, pattern formation, and epigenetic regulation of gene expression.

Instructor(s): D. Bishop, H-C. Lee, E. Ferguson, X. Zhang.     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): The first three quarters of a fundamentals sequence including a course in genetics (BIOS 20187, BIOS 20235, or BIOS 20171).
Note(s): E.

BIOS 21237. Developmental Mechanisms. 100 Units.

This course provides an overview of the fundamental questions of developmental biology, with particular emphasis on the genetic, molecular and cell biological experiments that have been employed to reach mechanistic answers to these questions. Topics covered will include formation of the primary body axes, the role of local signaling interactions in regulating cell fate and proliferation, the cellular basis of morphogenesis, and stem cells.

Instructor(s): E. Ferguson, R. Fehon     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): For undergraduates only: Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20189, or BIOS 20235. AND CONSENT OF INSTRUCTOR
Equivalent Course(s): DVBI 36400, MGCB 36400

BIOS 21238. Cell Biology II. 100 Units.

This course covers the mechanisms with which cells execute fundamental behaviors. Topics include signal transduction, cell cycle progression, cell growth, cell death, cancer biology, cytoskeletal polymers and motors, cell motility, cytoskeletal diseases, and cell polarity. Each lecture will conclude with a dissection of primary literature with input from the students. Students will write and present a short research proposal, providing excellent preparation for preliminary exams.

Instructor(s): M. Glotzer, D. Kovar     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): For undergraduates: Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence.
Equivalent Course(s): MGCB 31700, DVBI 31700, BCMB 31700

BIOS 21306. Human Genetics and Evolution. 100 Units.

The goal of this course is to provide an evolutionary perspective on the molecular genetic bases of human diseases and non-clinical human traits. The course covers fundamental concepts and recent progress in Mendelian and complex trait mapping as well as evolutionary principles as they apply to genomics analyses of DNA sequence variation in human populations. These topics will be introduced through lectures and will be complemented by discussion and student presentations of original research papers.

Instructor(s): Y. Li and R. Blekhman     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20235.
Note(s): E. GP.

BIOS 21317. Topics in Biological Chemistry. 100 Units.

Required of students who are majoring in biological chemistry. This course examines a variety of biological problems from a chemical and structural perspective, with an emphasis on molecular machines. Topics include macromolecular structure-function relationships, DNA synthesis and repair, RNA folding and function, protein synthesis, targeting and translocation, molecular motors, membrane proteins, photosynthesis, and mechanisms of signal transduction. Computer graphics exercises and in-class journal clubs complement the lecture topics.

Instructor(s): C. Hayes, R. Keenan     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence and BIOS 20200.

BIOS 21328. Biophysics of Biomolecules. 100 Units.

This course covers the properties of proteins, RNA, and DNA, as well as their interactions. We emphasize the interplay between structure, thermodynamics, folding, and function at the molecular level. Topics include cooperativity, linked equilibrium, hydrogen exchange, electrostatics, diffusion, and binding.

Instructor(s): Sosnick, T.     Terms Offered: Spring
Equivalent Course(s): BPHS 31000, BCMB 32200

BIOS 21349. Protein Structure and Functions in Medicine. 100 Units.

This course explores how molecular machinery works in the context of medicine (vision, fight or flight, cancer, and action of drugs). We first explore the physical and biochemical properties of proteins in the context of cellular signaling. We then examine how proteins and other cellular components make up the signal transduction pathway of humans and conduct their biological functions. The course engages students to strengthen their scientific communication and teaching skills via the in-class podcast, oral examinations, computer-aided structural presentations, student lectures, and discussions.

Instructor(s): W-J. Tang     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence. Biochemistry strongly recommended.
Equivalent Course(s): NURB 33500, CABI 31900

BIOS 21356. Vertebrate Development. 100 Units.

This advanced-level course combines lectures, student presentations, and discussion sessions. It covers major topics on the developmental biology of embryos (e.g. formation of the germ line, gastrulation, segmentation, nervous system development, limb pattering, organogenesis). We make extensive use of the primary literature and emphasize experimental approaches including embryology, genetics, and molecular genetics.

Instructor(s): V. Prince, P. Kratsios.     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): For Biological Sciences majors: Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20189 or BIOS 20235
Equivalent Course(s): ORGB 33600, MGCB 35600, DVBI 35600

BIOS 21358. Simulation, Modeling, and Computation in Biophysics. 100 Units.

This course develops skills for modeling biomolecular systems. Fundamental knowledge covers basic statistical mechanics, free energy, and kinetic concepts. Tools include molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations, random walk and diffusion equations, and methods to generate random Gaussian and Poisson distributors. A term project involves writing a small program that simulates a process. Familiarity with a programming language or Mathlab would be valuable.

Instructor(s): B. Roux     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence, BIOS 20200 and BIOS 26210-26211, or consent from instructor
Note(s): CB
Equivalent Course(s): CHEM 31358, CPNS 31358, BCMB 31358

BIOS 21360. Advanced Molecular Biology. 100 Units.

This course covers genome structures, transcription of DNA to RNA, messenger RNA splicing, translation of RNA to protein, transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene regulations, non-coding RNA functions, epigenetics and epi-transcriptomics. Basic methods in molecular biology will also be covered. The course also includes special, current topics on genomics, single molecule studies of gene expression, epi-transcriptomics, and others.

Instructor(s): J. Fei, T. Pan.     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20235 and Organic Chemistry, or consent of instructor.

BIOS 21415. Stem Cells in Development and Diseases. 100 Units.

This course will provide a survey of concepts and biology of stem cells based on experimental evidence for their involvement in developmental processes and human diseases. Topics will discuss classic models as well as recent advance made in the biomedical research community.

Instructor(s): A. Imamoto, X. Wu     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence, including BIOS 20186 and BIOS 20187

BIOS 21416. Stem Cells and Regeneration. 100 Units.

The course will focus on the basic biology of stem cells and regeneration, highlighting biomedically relevant findings that have the potential to translate to the clinic. We will cover embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, as well as adult stem cells from a variety of systems, both invertebrate and vertebrates.

Instructor(s): H. Marlow, E. Ferguson, V. Prince, J. Cunningham,      Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): For undergraduates only: Three quarters of a Biological Sciences fundamentals Sequence
Equivalent Course(s): DVBI 36200

BIOS 21506. Biological Physics. 100 Units.

This course will focus on unifying problems and themes found across biology that benefit from a quantitative approach. Questions covered include: How do evolved non-equilibrium mechanisms get around the constraints of equilibrium thermodynamics? What are the minimal requirements for matter to become life by replicating and evolving? How do living systems partition limited resources (energy, matter) acquired from the environment? How do living systems exploit dynamical systems behaviors to store and retrieve memories of past environments on different timescales? No specialized biological knowledge assumed.

Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 13300 or PHYS 14300, or permission of Instructor.
Note(s): Students majoring in Physics may use this course either as a Physics elective OR as a upper level elective in the Biological Sciences major.
Equivalent Course(s): PHYS 25500

BIOS 21507. Stem Cell Biology, Regeneration, and Disease Modeling. 100 Units.

In this course, students will gain an understanding of the science and application of tissue engineering, a field that seeks to develop technologies for restoring lost function in diseased or damaged tissues and organs. The course will first introduce the underlying cellular and molecular components and processes relevant to tissue engineering: extracellular matrices, cell/matrix interactions such as adhesion and migration, growth factor biology, stem cell biology, inflammation, and innate immunity. The course will then discuss current approaches for engineering a variety of tissues, including bone and musculoskeletal tissues, vascular tissues, skin, nerve, and pancreas. Students will be assessed through in-class discussions, take-home assignments and exams, and an end-of-term project on a topic of the student's choice.

Instructor(s): Huanhuan Chen     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20186 or BIOS 20234
Note(s): CB
Equivalent Course(s): MENG 33110, MPMM 34300, MENG 23110

BIOS 21508. Cellular Engineering. 100 Units.

Cellular engineering is a field that studies cell and molecule structure-function relationships. It is the development and application of engineering approaches and technologies to biological molecules and cells. This course provides a bridge between engineers and biologists that quantitatively study cells and molecules and develop future clinical applications. Topics include fundamental cell and molecular biology; immunology and biochemistry; receptors, ligands, and their interactions; nanotechnology/biomechanics; enzyme kinetics; molecular probes; cellular and molecular imaging; single-cell genomics and proteomics; genetic and protein engineering; and drug delivery and gene delivery.

Instructor(s): Jun Huang      Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Completion of the first two quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence
Equivalent Course(s): MENG 22200, MENG 32200, MOMN 34310

BIOS 21510. Chromatin & Epigenetics. 100 Units.

This course presents the dynamic nature of the physiological genome - an exquisitely regulated macromolecular polymer termed chromatin - that gives rise to hundreds of cellular identities, each adaptable to various environmental milieu. Students will explore the mechanisms and determinants that shape distinct chromatin conformations and their influences on gene expression and cell fate. Topics include histone modifications, ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, Polycomb, heterochromatin, topologically associating domains, phase transition, and non-coding RNA. Students will apply their knowledge to understand the role of chromatin structure in development (e.g. lineage specification), disease (e.g. cancer) and potential therapeutics (e.g. cellular reprogramming). Students will leave the course with an in-depth knowledge of cutting-edge epigenetic methodologies as well as the ability to critically evaluate primary literature and propose original scientific research.

Instructor(s): A. Koh     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence
Equivalent Course(s): IMMU 33000

BIOS 22233. Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 100 Units.

This course covers the structure and function of major anatomical systems of vertebrates. Lectures focus on vertebrate diversity, biomechanics, and behavior (from swimming and feeding to running, flying, seeing, and hearing). Labs involve detailed dissection of animals (muscles, organs, brains) and a focus on skull bones in a broad comparative context from fishes to frogs, turtles, alligators, mammals, birds, and humans. Field trip to Field Museum and visit to medical school lab for human dissection required.

Instructor(s): M. Westneat. L.      Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence.
Note(s): Offered Winter during odd years. E.
Equivalent Course(s): ORGB 32233

BIOS 22245. Biomechanics: How Life Works. 100 Units.

This course will explore form and function in a diversity of organisms, using the principles of physics and evolutionary theory to understand why living things are shaped as they are and behave in such a diversity of ways. Biomechanics is at the interface of biology, physics, art, and engineering. We will study the impact of size on biological systems, address the implications of solid and fluid mechanics for organismal design, learn fundamental principles of animal locomotion, and survey biomechanical approaches. Understanding the mechanics of biological organisms can help us gain insight into their behavior, ecology and evolution.

Instructor(s): M. Westneat     Terms Offered: Spring. L. Spring.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence. Physics useful.
Note(s): This course will include a lab and will alternate years with BIOS 22233. E.
Equivalent Course(s): ORGB 32245, EVOL 32245

BIOS 22250. Chordates: Evolution and Comparative Anatomy. 100 Units.

Chordate biology emphasizes the diversity and evolution of modern vertebrate life, drawing on a range of sources (from comparative anatomy and embryology to paleontology, biomechanics, and developmental genetics). Much of the work is lab-based, with ample opportunity to gain firsthand experience of the repeated themes of vertebrate body plans, as well as some of the extraordinary specializations manifest in living forms. The instructors, who are both actively engaged in vertebrate-centered research, take this course beyond the boundaries of standard textbook content.

Instructor(s): M. Coates     Terms Offered: Winter. L.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence, including BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20235
Note(s): Offered Winter during even years. E.
Equivalent Course(s): EVOL 30200, ORGB 30250

BIOS 22260. Vertebrate Structure and Function. 100 Units.

This course is devoted to vertebrate bones and muscles, with a focus on some remarkable functions they perform. The first part takes a comparative look at the vertebrate skeleton via development and evolution, from lamprey to human. The major functional changes are examined as vertebrates adapted to life in the water, on land, and in the air. The second part looks at muscles and how they work in specific situations, including gape-feeding, swimming, leaping, digging, flying, and walking on two legs. Dissection of preserved vertebrate specimens required.

Instructor(s): P. Sereno. L.     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence and consent of instructor. See also http://paulsereno.uchicago.edu/fossil_lab/classes/vertebrate_structure_and_function for more information.
Note(s): E.

BIOS 22265. Human Origins: Milestones in Human Evolution and the Fossil Record. 100 Units.

This course aims at exploring the fundamentals of human origins by tracking the major events during the course of human evolution. Starting with a laboratory based general introduction to human osteology and muscle function, the latest on morphological and behavioral evidence for what makes Homo sapiens and their fossil ancestors unique among primates will be presented. Our knowledge of the last common ancestor will be explored using the late Miocene fossil record followed by a series of lectures on comparative and functional morphology, adaptation and biogeography of fossil human species. With focus on the human fossil record, the emergence of bipedalism, advent of stone tool use and making, abandonment of arboreality, advent of endurance walking and running, dawn of encephalization and associated novel life histories, language and symbolism will be explored. While taxonomic identities and phylogenetic relationships will be briefly presented, the focus will be on investigating major adaptive transitions and how that understanding helps us to unravel the ecological selective factors that ultimately led to the emergence of our species. The course will be supported by fresh data coming from active field research conducted by Prof. Alemseged and state of the art visualization methods that help explore internal structures. By tracing the path followed by our ancestors over time, this course is directly relevant to reconnoitering the human condition today and our place in nature.

Instructor(s): Z. Alemseged. L.     Terms Offered: Autumn. Will be offered Autumn 2025. Offered every other year.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence, or consent of Instructor.
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): ANTH 28110, ORGB 33265

BIOS 22270. Bones and Genes: The Story of Homo Sapiens. 100 Units.

The primary aim of this course is to explore the biological and behavioral makings of our species, anatomically modern Homo sapiens, by considering hypotheses, models, evidence, and the latest consensus from the complementary fields of paleoanthropology and genetics. The course is divided into two blocks, one focusing on our origins and the other on migrations across the globe. After a brief introduction to the human skeleton, students will learn about the pool of potential direct ancestors that lived before Homo sapiens emerged 300,000 year ago, as well as the environmental and cultural environments that may have led to the arrival of our species. This will be complemented by an evaluation of competing genetic models for the origin of our species and evidence for genetic intermixing with archaic humans such as Neanderthals and Denisovans. We will, then, follow modern humans out of Africa and study the fossil, archaeological, and genetic evidence for the peopling of the planet and adaptations to novel environments. Finally, the contributions of paleoanthropology and genetics to our understanding of behavior, cognition, physical traits/phenotypes, diet, and disease evolution will be explored. Complementary laboratory and discussion sessions will expose students to state-of-the-art methods and current research endeavors in these fields.

Instructor(s): M. Raghavan, Z. Alemseged.      Terms Offered: Spring. L. This course will be taught during even years.
Prerequisite(s): BIOS Majors: Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence. Also open to students in Anthropology and Genetics with an interest in human evolution, or consent of instructors.
Note(s): E.

BIOS 22306. Evolution and Development. 100 Units.

The course will provide a developmental perspective on animal body plans in phylogenetic context. The course will start with a few lectures, accompanied by reading assignments. Students will be required to present a selected research topic that fits the broader goal of the course and will be asked to submit a referenced written version of it after their oral presentation. Grading will be based on their presentation (oral and written) as well as their contributions to class discussions. Prerequisite(s): Advanced undergraduates may enroll with the consent of the instructor.

Instructor(s): U. Schmidt-Ott     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Advanced undergraduates may enroll with the consent of the instructor.
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): EVOL 33850, DVBI 33850, ORGB 33850

BIOS 23232. Ecology and Evolution in the Southwest. 100 Units.

This lecture course focuses on the ecological communities of the Southwest, primarily on the four subdivisions of the North American Desert, the Chihuahuan, Sonoran, Mohave, and Great Basin Deserts. Lecture topics include climate change and the impact on the flora and fauna of the region; adaptations to arid landscapes; evolutionary, ecological, and conservation issues in the arid Southwest, especially relating to isolated mountain ranges; human impacts on the biota, land, and water; and how geological and climatic forces shape deserts.

Instructor(s): E. Larsen     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence, or consent of instructor
Note(s): E.

BIOS 23233. Ecology and Evolution in the Southwest:Field School. 100 Units.

This lecture/lab course is the same course as BIOS 23232, but includes a lab section preparatory to a three-week field trip at end of Spring Quarter, specific dates to be announced. Our goal in the lab is to prepare proposals for research projects to conduct in the field portion of this course. Field conditions are rugged. Travel is by fifteen-passenger van. Lodging during most of this course is tent camping on developed campsites.

Instructor(s): E. Larsen     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence and consent of instructor
Note(s): E.

BIOS 23247. Bioarchaeology and Forensic Anthropology: Approaches to the Past. 100 Units.

This course is intended to provide students with a thorough understanding of bioanthropological, osteological and forensic methods used in the interpretation of past and present behavior by introducing osteological methods and anthropological theory. In particular, lab instruction stresses hands-on experience in analyzing human remains, whereas seminar classes integrate bioanthropological theory and its application to specific archaeological and forensic cases throughout the world. At the end of this course, students will be able to identify, document, and interpret human remains from archaeological and forensic contexts. Lab and seminar-format classes each meet weekly.

Note(s): This course qualifies as a Methodology selection for Anthropology majors.
Equivalent Course(s): ANTH 28400, LACS 28400, LACS 38400, ANTH 38800

BIOS 23248. Primate Behavior and Ecology. 100 Units.

This course explores the behavior and ecology of nonhuman primates with emphasis on their natural history and evolution. Specific topics include methods for the study of primate behavior, history of primate behavior research, socioecology, foraging, predation, affiliation, aggression, mating, parenting, development, communication, cognition, and evolution of human behavior.

Instructor(s): D. Maestripieri     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Completion of the first three quarters of a Biological Sciences fundamentals sequence.
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): CHDV 34300, CHDV 21800, EVOL 37300

BIOS 23249. Animal Behavior. 100 Units.

This course introduces the mechanism, ecology, and evolution of behavior, primarily in nonhuman species, at the individual and group level. Topics include the genetic basis of behavior, developmental pathways, communication, physiology and behavior, foraging behavior, kin selection, mating systems and sexual selection, and the ecological and social context of behavior. A major emphasis is placed on understanding and evaluating scientific studies and their field and lab techniques.

Instructor(s): J. Mateo     Terms Offered: Winter. odd years
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence.
Note(s): CHDV Distribution: A E.
Equivalent Course(s): PSYC 23249, CHDV 23249

BIOS 23254. Mammalian Ecology. 100 Units.

This course introduces the diversity and classification of mammals and their ecological relationships. Lectures cover natural history, evolution, and functional morphology of major taxonomic groups. Lab sessions focus on skeletal morphology, identifying traits of major taxonomic groups, and methods of conducting research in the field. Participation in field trips, occasionally on Saturday, is required.

Instructor(s): E. Larsen     Terms Offered: Spring. L. Offered every other year in odd years.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence and third-year standing or consent of instructor.
Note(s): E.

BIOS 23261. Invertebrate Paleobiology and Evolution. 100 Units.

This course provides a detailed overview of the morphology, paleobiology, evolutionary history, and practical uses of the invertebrate and microfossil groups commonly found in the fossil record. Emphasis is placed on understanding key anatomical and ecological innovations within each group and interactions among groups responsible for producing the observed changes in diversity, dominance, and ecological community structure through evolutionary time. Labs supplement lecture material with specimen-based and practical application sections. An optional field trip offers experience in the collection of specimens and raw paleontological data. Several "Hot Topics" lectures introduce important, exciting, and often controversial aspects of current paleontological research linked to particular invertebrate groups. (L)

Instructor(s): M. Webster     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): GEOS 13100 and 13200 or equivalent; completion of the general education requirement in the Biological Sciences, or consent of instructor.
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): GEOS 26300, GEOS 36300, EVOL 32400

BIOS 23262. Mammalian Evolutionary Biology. 100 Units.

This course examines mammalian evolution-the rise of living mammals from ancient fossil ancestors stretching back over 300 million years. Lectures focus on the evolutionary diversification of mammals, including anatomical structure, evolutionary adaptations, life history, and developmental patterns. Labs involve detailed comparative study of mammalian skeletons, dissection of muscular and other systems, trips to the Field Museum to study fossil collections, and studies of human anatomy at the Pritzker School of Medicine. Students will learn mammalian evolution, functional morphology, and development, and will gain hands-on experience in dissection. Taught by instructors who are active in scientific research on mammalian evolution, the course is aimed to convey new insights and the latest progress in mammalian paleontology, functional morphology, and evolution. Prerequisite(s): Second-year standing and completion of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence; or GEOS 13100-13200 or GEOS 22300, or consent of instructors.

Instructor(s): Z. Luo, K. Angielczyk     Terms Offered: Autumn. L.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence or consent of instructors.
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): EVOL 31201, ORGB 31201

BIOS 23266. Evolutionary Adaptation. 100 Units.

This course deals with the adaptation of organisms to their environments and focuses on methods for studying adaptation. Topics include definitions and examples of adaptation, the notion of optimization, adaptive radiations, the comparative method in evolutionary biology, and the genetic architecture of adaptive traits. Students will draw on the logical frameworks covered in lecture as they evaluate primary papers and prepare a writing assignment on an adaptive question of their choice.

Instructor(s): C. Andrews     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20153 and BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20234 and 20235 or BIOS 20170 and 20171 or consent of instructor.
Note(s): E.

BIOS 23289. Marine Ecology. 100 Units.

This course provides an introduction into the physical, chemical, and biological forces controlling the function of marine ecosystems and how marine communities are organized. The structures of various types of marine ecosystems are described and contrasted, and the lectures highlight aspects of marine ecology relevant to applied issues such as conservation and harvesting.

Instructor(s): T. Wootton     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence and prior introductory course in ecology or consent of instructor.
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): ENST 23289

BIOS 23299. Plant Development and Molecular Genetics. 100 Units.

Genetic approaches to central problems in plant development will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on embryonic pattern formation, meristem structure and function, reproduction, and the role of hormones and environmental signals in development. Lectures will be drawn from the current literature; experimental approaches (genetic, cell biological, biochemical) used to discern developmental mechanisms will be emphasized. Graduate students will present a research proposal in oral and written form; undergraduate students will present and analyze data from the primary literature, and will be responsible for a final paper.

Instructor(s): J. Greenberg     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): For undergraduates only: Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20235.
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): DVBI 36100, MGCB 36100, ECEV 32900

BIOS 23404. Reconstructing the Tree of Life: An Introduction to Phylogenetics. 100 Units.

This course is an introduction to the tree of life (phylogeny): its conceptual origins, methods for discovering its structure, and its importance in evolutionary biology and other areas of science. Topics include history and concepts, sources of data, methods of phylogenetic analysis, and the use of phylogenies to study the tempo and mode of lineage diversification, coevolution, biogeography, conservation, molecular biology, development, and epidemiology. One Saturday field trip and weekly computer labs required in addition to scheduled class time. This course is offered in alternate (odd) years.

Instructor(s): R. Ree.; A. Hipp     Terms Offered: Autumn. This course is offered in alternate (odd) years. L.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence or consent of instructor
Note(s): E. CB.
Equivalent Course(s): EVOL 35401

BIOS 23406. Biogeography. 100 Units.

In this course, we examine the uneven distribution of life on Earth and how ecology, evolution, and Earth sciences help us understand its past, present, and future. Topics include diversity gradients and hotspots, islands, methods for inferring the boundaries and histories of biotas, models and laws in biogeography, and the relevance of biogeography in the Anthropocene.

Instructor(s): J. Bates (odd years); R. Ree (even years)     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence and a course in either ecology, evolution, or earth history; or consent of instructor
Note(s): E. GP.
Equivalent Course(s): ENST 25500, GEOG 35500, GEOG 25500, EVOL 45500

BIOS 23409. The Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Diseases. 100 Units.

Understanding the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases is crucial for both human health and for preservation of the natural environment. In this course, we combine mathematical modeling with ecological and evolutionary analyses to understand how fundamental mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions are translated into disease dynamics and host-pathogen co-evolution.

Instructor(s): G. Dwyer     Terms Offered: Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence and Integral calculus.
Note(s): E. GP. CB.

BIOS 23410. Complex Interactions: Coevolution, Parasites, Mutualists, and Cheaters. 100 Units.

This course emphasizes the enormous diversity of interactions between organisms. It is an introduction to the biology and ecology of parasitic and mutualistic symbiotic associations and their evolution. Topics include endosymbioses and their impact on the evolution of photosynthetic organisms, bacterial symbioses (e.g., nitrogen fixation), symbioses that fungi evolved with plants and animals (e.g., endophytes, mycorrhizae, lichens), pollination biology, insect-plant associations, and associations of algae with animals. Methods to elucidate the evolution of these associations are discussed with a focus on coevolutionary events and the origin of cheaters.

Instructor(s): T. Lumbsch     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence.
Note(s): E.

BIOS 23413. Quantitative Microbial Ecology. 100 Units.

Microbes live in nearly every niche on the planet from our bodies to the soil beneath our feet. In all of these habitats, microbes live in communities that harbor staggering complexity with thousands of species possessing almost unimaginable variation in traits and interactions. From all of this complexity emerge global nutrient cycles, the functional microbiota within higher organisms, and many industrial processes upon which life depends. In recent years ecologists and microbiologists have joined forces with physicists, engineers, chemists, and computer scientists to try and build quantitative and predictive formalisms to understand these systems. This course gives students a front-row seat to this emerging field through a "physics-style approach" to understand the structure, dynamics, and function of complex communities of microbes. We engage with the general principles of microbial physiology. These considerations connect our inquiry to consumer-resource models and computational studies of resource-mediated interactions in microbial communities.

Instructor(s): Seppe Kuehn     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Calculus. Basic familiarity with programming in Python, Matlab or R is beneficial but not required. Biology majors: Completion of three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence.
Note(s): E. CB.
Equivalent Course(s): ECEV 36500

BIOS 24101. Foundations of Neuroscience. 100 Units.

This course is an introduction to the broad field of neuroscience. This is a lecture-based course that aims to introduce undergraduate students to concepts and principles that explain how the nervous system is built and how it functions. Examples of thematic areas covered in lectures include: (a) cellular anatomy of the nervous system, (b) development and evolution of the nervous system, (c) sensory systems, (d) motor systems, (e) cognition and behavior.

Instructor(s): D. Freedman, P. Kratsios, M. McNulty     Terms Offered: Autumn
Equivalent Course(s): PSYC 24450, NSCI 20101

BIOS 24111. Cellular Neurophysiology. 100 Units.

This course describes the cellular and subcellular properties of neurons including passive and active electrophysiological properties and their synaptic interactions. Readings are assigned from a general neuroscience textbook.

Instructor(s): M. Sheffield     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): NSCI 20101 AND MATH 13100, MATH 15100, or MATH 16100 or consent of instructor
Equivalent Course(s): PSYC 24470, NSCI 20111

BIOS 24130. Systems Neuroscience. 100 Units.

This course covers vertebrate and invertebrate systems neuroscience with a focus on the anatomy, physiology, and development of sensory and motor control systems. The neural bases of form and motion perception, locomotion, memory, and other forms of neural plasticity are examined in detail. We also discuss clinical aspects of neurological disorders.

Instructor(s): J. MacLean     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): NSCI 20101, NSCI 20111 or consent of instructors
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 20130, PSYC 24010

BIOS 24136. Photons to Consciousness: Cellular and Integrative Brain Functions. 100 Units.

This course uses the visual system as a model to explore how the brain works. We begin by considering the physical properties of light. We then proceed to consider the mechanism of sensory transduction, cellular mechanisms of neuron to neuron communication, the operation of small neural networks, strategies of signal detection in neuron networks, and the hierarchical organization of cortical function. We conclude with visually guided behavior and consciousness.

Instructor(s): E. Schwartz     Terms Offered: Spring Winter
Prerequisite(s): NSCI 20101 or NSCI 20121
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 21100

BIOS 24137. Social Neuroscience. 100 Units.

Humans are intensely social animals. Our lives are intertwined with other people, and our well-being depends on others. Social neuroscience examines how the brain mediates social cognition and behavior. It spans diverse species, disciplines (evolutionary biology, neuroscience, anthropology, psychology, behavioral economics, sociology, and political science), and levels of analysis across the biological organization. Social neuroscience provides an overarching paradigm to investigate social cognition and behavior and to determine where we as a species fit within a broader biological context. A wide range of topics will be examined, including social connections and friendship, sex, mating and aggression, cooperation and social preferences, social and environmental influences on decision-making and behavior, empathy, social contagion, and group coalitions. Interdisciplinary analyses, by integrating approaches from social sciences and biological sciences, significantly expand our knowledge and have the potential to improve our social and living conditions.

Instructor(s): J. Decety     Terms Offered: Autumn
Equivalent Course(s): PSYC 22350, HLTH 22350, CHDV 22350, ECON 21830

BIOS 24140. Neuropharmacology. 100 Units.

This is a one quarter course that will explore neuronal pharmacology. Both the autonomic and central nervous system will be examined. The course has a clinical orientation. The course starts with an overview of the nervous system. In this section, we will explore the cellular aspects of neurons and their basic membrane and electrophysiological properties as will cellular and molecular aspects of synaptic transmission. The majority of the course will explore different neurotransmitter systems and drugs that interact with these systems.

Instructor(s): A. Fox     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): NSCI 20101, NSCI 20111
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 21900

BIOS 24143. Molecular and Translational Neuroscience. 100 Units.

This lecture/seminar course explores the application of modern cellular and molecular techniques to clarify basic mechanisms that underlie neural development , synaptic transmission, protein trafficking, and circuit function and the dysfunction of these fundamental processes that results in neurodevelopmental disorders and age-associated neurological diseases.

Instructor(s): S. Sisodia     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Neuroscience Fundamental Series (NSCI 20101-20130)
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 22110

BIOS 24217. Conquest of Pain. 100 Units.

This course examines the biology of pain and the mechanisms by which anesthetics alter the perception of pain. The approach is to examine the anatomy of pain pathways both centrally and peripherally, and to define electrophysiological, biophysical, and biochemical explanations underlying the action of general and local anesthetics. We discuss the role of opiates and enkephalins. Central theories of anesthesia, including the relevance of sleep proteins, are also examined.

Instructor(s): K. Ruskin     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence, CHEM 2200-22100-22200 or BIOS 20200 and prior course in neurobiology or physiology is recommended.
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 22450

BIOS 24248. Biological Clocks and Behavior. 100 Units.

This course will address physiological and molecular biological aspects of circadian and seasonal rhythms in biology and behavior. The course will primarily emphasize biological and molecular mechanisms of CNS function, and will be taught at a molecular level of analysis from the beginning of the quarter. Those students without a strong biology background are unlikely to resonate with the course material.

Instructor(s): B. Prendergast     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): A quality grade in PSYC 20300 Introduction to Biological Psychology. Additional biology courses are desirable. Completion of Core biology will not suffice as a prerequisite.
Equivalent Course(s): HLTH 21750, NSCI 21400, PSYC 21750

BIOS 24251. Neurons and Glia: A Cellular and Molecular Perspective. 100 Units.

This course will be an interactive, in-depth analysis of the cell biology of neurons and glia. We will learn and discuss the latest techniques used, for example, to study the structure and function of neuronal proteins. In this way we will illuminate the central concepts that define our understanding of the cell and molecular biology of neurons and glia. The course will consist of lectures and critical reading of contemporary literature.

Instructor(s): R. Carrillo; W. Green     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Neuroscience Majors: NSCI 20101-20130 (Fundamental Neuroscience Sequence) Biological Sciences Majors: NSCI 20101-20130, or three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 23810, NURB 34810

BIOS 24408. Modeling and Signal Analysis for Neuroscientists. 100 Units.

The course provides an introduction into signal analysis and modeling for neuroscientists. We cover linear and nonlinear techniques and model both single neurons and neuronal networks. The goal is to provide students with the mathematical background to understand the literature in this field, the principles of analysis and simulation software, and allow them to construct their own tools. Several of the 90-minute lectures include demonstrations and/or exercises in Matlab.

Instructor(s): W. van Drongelen     Terms Offered: Spring. L.
Prerequisite(s): Undergraduates: Biology Major - BIOS 26210 and 26211, or consent of instructor. Neuroscience Major - NSCI 20130, BIOS 26210 and 26211, or consent of instructor.
Note(s): CB.
Equivalent Course(s): CPNS 32111, NSCI 24000

BIOS 25108. Cancer Biology. 100 Units.

This course covers the fundamentals of cancer biology with a focus on the story of how scientists identified the genes that cause cancer. The emphasis is on "doing" science rather than "done" science: How do scientists think, how do they design experiments, where do these ideas come from, what can go wrong, and what is it like when things go right? We stress the role that cellular subsystems (e.g., signal transduction, cell cycle) play in cancer biology, as well as evolving themes in cancer research (e.g., ongoing development of modern molecular therapeutics).

Instructor(s): A. Muir, A. Piunti     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence.
Note(s): GP.

BIOS 25109. Topics in Reproduction and Cancer. 100 Units.

This course focuses on several aspects of the molecular and cellular biology of human reproduction. We also discuss the basis of chemical/viral carcinogenesis and the progression, treatment, and prevention of cancer. The role of steroid hormones and their receptors in the control of growth, development, and specialized cell function is discussed in the context of normal and abnormal gene expression in human development and disease. Key historical events, research approaches, utilization of knowledge, recent advances in drug design and herbal medicines, and philosophies of scientific research are also covered.

Instructor(s): G. Greene, L. Becker     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): For Biology majors: Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20235 and Biochemistry, or consent of Instructor.
Note(s): GP.

BIOS 25126. Animal Models of Human Disease. 100 Units.

This course introduces the use of animals in biomedical research for the purposes of understanding, treating, and curing human disease. Particular emphasis is placed on rodent models in the context of genetic, molecular, and immunologic manipulations, as well as on the use of large animal surgical models. University veterinarians also provide information regarding humane animal care.

Instructor(s): K. Luchins, A. Ostdiek     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including a course in genetics, or consent of instructor
Note(s): GP.

BIOS 25206. Fundamentals of Bacteria. 100 Units.

This course meets one of the requirements of the microbiology specialization. This course introduces bacterial diversity, metabolism, ultra-structure, envelope assembly, genetics, bacterial communities, interbacterial interactions, and symbioses. In the discussion section, students review recent original experimental work in the field of bacteriology.

Instructor(s): L. Comstock     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence, or consent of instructor
Note(s): GP.
Equivalent Course(s): MICR 30600

BIOS 25207. Fundamentals and Applications of the Human Microbiota. 100 Units.

Thousands of microbes colonize the human body to collectively establish the human microbiota. Research findings over the past two decades have led to a growing appreciation of the importance of the microbiota in various facets of human health. This course will explore the human microbiota through a critical review of the primary scientific literature. The first portion of the course will cover distinct ways by which the human microbiota impacts mammalian health. The second part of the course will focus on established and developing microbiota-targeting biotechnologies. Students will leave the course with a general understanding of the current state of human microbiota research and its therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

Instructor(s): S. Light, M. Mimee     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence. Third or fourth year standing or consent of instructor.
Note(s): GP.
Equivalent Course(s): MENG 33210, MENG 23210, MICR 38000

BIOS 25216. Molecular Basis of Bacterial Disease. 100 Units.

This course meets one of the requirements of the microbiology specialization. This lecture/discussion course involves a comprehensive analysis of bacterial pathogens, the diseases that they cause, and the molecular mechanisms involved during pathogenesis. Students discuss recent original experimental work in the field of bacterial pathogenesis.

Instructor(s): J. Chen     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence.
Note(s): GP.
Equivalent Course(s): MICR 31600

BIOS 25226. Endocrinology I: Cell Signaling. 100 Units.

The subject matter of this course considers the wide variety of intracellular mechanisms that, when activated, change cell behavior. We cover aspects of intracellular signaling, the latter including detailed discussions of receptors, G-proteins, cyclic nucleotides, calcium and calcium-binding proteins, phosphoinositides, protein kinases, and phosphatases.

Instructor(s): M. Brady.     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence and BIOS 20200.
Equivalent Course(s): NPHP 33600

BIOS 25227. Endocrinology II: Systems and Physiology. 100 Units.

Endocrinology is the study of hormones, which are chemical messengers released by tissues that regulate the activity of other cells in the body. This course covers the classical hormone systems, including hormones regulating metabolism, energy mobilization and storage, calcium and phosphate metabolism, reproduction, growth, "fight or flight," and circadian rhythms. We focus on historical perspective, the mechanisms of action, homeostatic regulation, and relevant human diseases for each system.

Instructor(s): M. Brady, R. Cohen     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Completion of the first three quarters of a Biological Fundamentals Sequence.
Note(s): GP.

BIOS 25228. Endocrinology III: Human Disease. 100 Units.

A Fundamentals Sequence (BIOS 20180s or 20190s, or AP 5 sequence) and BIOS 25227 recommended but not required. This course is a modern overview of the patho-physiologic, genetic, and molecular basis of human diseases with nutritional perspectives. We discuss human diseases (e.g., hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, alopecia).

Instructor(s): Y. C. Li     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence is required and BIOS 25227 is strongly recommended.
Note(s): GP.

BIOS 25256. Immunobiology. 100 Units.

This comprehensive survey course presents an integrated coverage of the tactics and logistics of innate and adaptive immunity in mammalian organisms. It conveys the elegance and complexity of immune responses against infectious agents. It introduces their implications in autoimmune diseases, cancer and organ transplantation and presents some of the emerging immunotherapeutics that are transforming health care. Prior knowledge of microbiology (e.g., BIOS 25206) will be advantageous. Prerequisite(s): Completion of a Biological Sceinces Fundamentals Sequence which includes, Cell, Genetics, Developmental Biology, and Physiology

Instructor(s): M. Alegre     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence including BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20235, and BIOS 20188 and BIOS 20189
Note(s): GP.

BIOS 25258. Immunopathology. 100 Units.

Five examples of diseases are selected each year among the following categories: autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases, infection immunity, immunodeficiencies and gene therapy, and transplantation and tumor immunology. Each disease is studied in depth with general lectures that include, where applicable, histological analysis of diseased tissue samples and discussions of primary research papers on experimental disease models. Special emphasis is placed on understanding immunopathology within the framework of general immunological concepts and on experimental approaches to the study of immunopathological models.

Instructor(s): D. Esterhazy; RR. Chowdhury     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 25256 with a grade of B+ or higher.
Note(s): GP.
Equivalent Course(s): PATH 30010, IMMU 30010

BIOS 25260. Host Pathogen Interactions. 100 Units.

This course explores the basic principles of host defense against pathogens, including evolutionary aspects of innate and adaptive immunity and immune evasion strategies. Specific examples of viral and bacterial interactions with their hosts are studied in depth. A review of immunological mechanisms involved in specific cases is incorporated in the course.

Instructor(s): A. Chervonsky     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 25206 and BIOS 25256
Note(s): GP.
Equivalent Course(s): IMMU 31200, MICR 31200

BIOS 25266. Molecular Immunology. 100 Units.

This discussion-oriented course examines the molecular principles of immune recognition. We explore the roles of protein modification, protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions in the discrimination between self and non-self, and study the molecular fundamentals of cell stimulation and signaling. Primary literature focused on molecular research of the immune system is integrated with lectures on commonly used biochemical, structural and immunological techniques used in the research papers examined.

Instructor(s): E. Adams     Terms Offered: Spring. Offered in odd years
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20200 or 25256, or consent of instructor. Offered during odd years.
Equivalent Course(s): IMMU 30266

BIOS 25287. Introduction to Virology. 100 Units.

This class on animal viruses considers the major families of the viral kingdom with an emphasis on the molecular aspects of genome expression and virus-host interactions. Our goal is to provide students with solid appreciation of basic knowledge, as well as instruction on the frontiers of virus research.

Instructor(s): T. Golovkina     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence and third- or fourth-year standing
Note(s): GP.
Equivalent Course(s): MICR 34600

BIOS 25308. Heterogeneity in Human Cancer: Etiology and Treatment. 100 Units.

This course addresses the importance of understanding human tumor heterogeneity (organ site by organ site) in terms of predicting whether tumors will progress to malignancy and how tumors will respond to standard treatments or require tailored molecular therapeutics. Alternating lecture and discussion lectures will explore and tease apart the controversies in the field that limit progress in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. At the end of the course, students should have an in-depth understanding of the complexities, challenges and opportunities facing modern cancer researchers and clinical oncologists and be able to discuss novel scientific approaches to solving these issues.

Instructor(s): K. MacLeod     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): A grade of B or better in BIOS 25108
Note(s): GP.

BIOS 25326. Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis. 100 Units.

The tumor microenvironment regulates disease progression and chemoresistance in most cancers. This course addresses the functional contribution of the different cellular and non-cellular constituents of the tumor that surround the malignant cancer cells in cancer progression and metastasis. We will thoroughly discuss the function of stroma, inflammation, tumor senescence, immunity and the interactome in cancer progression and metastasis. Moreover, we will evaluate the translational impact of targeting the tumor microenvironment. Laboratory studies will introduce key techniques and organotypic model systems to elucidate these functions. At the end of the course, students should be able to understand the biology behind cancer metastasis and to evaluate manuscripts reporting novel findings in cancer biology. Prerequisite(s): BIOS 25108 and BIOS 25308

Instructor(s): H. Kenny, E. Lengyel     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence.
Note(s): Three optional weekend, one-day workshops will be offered during the quarter. This course qualifies in the Cancer Specialization.

BIOS 25327. Health Disparities in Breast Cancer. 100 Units.

Across the globe, breast cancer is the most common women's cancer. In the last two decades, there have been significant advances in breast cancer detection and treatment that have resulted in improved survival rates. Yet, not all populations have benefited equally from these improvements, and there continues to be a disproportionate burden of breast cancer felt by different populations. In the U.S., for example, white women have the highest incidence of breast cancer but African-American women have the highest breast cancer mortality overall. The socioeconomic, environmental, biological, and cultural factors that collectively contribute to these disparities are being identified with a growing emphasis on health disparities research efforts. In this 10-week discussion-based course students will meet twice weekly and cover major aspects of breast cancer disparities.

Instructor(s): E. Dolan, S. Conzen     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 25108
Note(s): GP.
Equivalent Course(s): CCTS 40400, GNSE 30408, CCTS 20400, GNSE 20408, HLTH 20400

BIOS 25328. Cancer Genetics and Genomics. 100 Units.

Unprecedented technological progress over the last decade, especially high throughput sequencing technologies, has transformed the basic and translational research of cancer as well as other diseases. In this course, we will introduce the current state of the field, discuss how germline and somatic factors drive cancer initiation and progression, and demonstrate how to use omics data to advance our understanding of cancer. We will review recent literature in cancer genetics and genomics, learn about the standing questions in the field, and practice the analytical techniques to address these questions. Computational exercises will be an integral part of the course and provide you with a hand-on experience of state-of-the-art techniques.

Instructor(s): H.K. Im, L. Yang     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): A course in genetics (BIOS 20187, BIOS 20235 or 20171)
Note(s): CB.

BIOS 25329. Tissue Immunity and Cancer. 100 Units.

This course explores classical and contemporary cancer immunology and immunotherapy concepts. It covers fundamental knowledge in cancer immunity, immune evasion, and immunotherapy design through lectures and primary literature reviews. The unique aspect of this course is its focus on tissue-specific immunity and how it impacts tumor surveillance or aids cancer progression. This perspective leads students to the forefront of cancer research, investigating why tumors vary in aggressiveness across different tissues and why treatments differ in effectiveness. Students will also learn about the principles of adaptive and innate immune system coordination against tumorigenesis and how these systems can be manipulated to facilitate or hinder tumor progression. The course uses colon, skin, and pancreas as examples to illustrate how various tissues establish distinct immune-cancer interactions, leading to diverse responses against primary or metastatic tumors and promoting cancer immune evasion. Additionally, the course discusses advancements in cancer immunotherapy, spanning pre-clinical and clinical testing stages, with an emphasis on using tissue-specific immunity to design optimal treatments. Students will be assessed through in-class discussions, take-home assignments, exams, and an end-of-term project on a topic of their choice.

Instructor(s): D. Esterhazy and Y. Miao     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a biology fundamentals sequence and one of the following: BIOS 25108 Cancer Biology, BIOS 25256 Immunobiology, or BIOS 25258 Immunopathology.
Note(s): This course counts as a required course in the Immunology Specialization for biology majors.
Equivalent Course(s): IMMU 35300

BIOS 25426. From Diagnostics to Therapy: The Application of Translational Research in Cancer. 100 Units.

With the tremendous strides in medicine and healthcare, cancer is still a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Why is this? Cancer is a complex disease, which ultimately makes treatment challenging. Reasons for this disease complexity include the cancer origin/type; impact of cancer heterogeneity; complex interactions between cell types within the tumor microenvironment; tendency of disease to recur; and whether metastasis has occurred. Although cancer is still a major problem, there is hope founded on the recent advancements in technology/methodology in cancer diagnosis/treatments, which translational research has a significant role. In this course, students will learn about what cancer is and the characteristics that make it a complex disease. Translational research and its role in increasing the cure rate/prolonging survival will be defined. The course will cover the advancements in cancer diagnostics from imaging, sequencing, body fluids, and digital pathology using machine learning. The course will also include introducing methods of long-term monitoring of cancer progression/relapse and dynamic evaluation of the treatment effectiveness. Novel cancer treatments based on successes in translational research will be presented. Guest speakers that are experts in fields of cancer diagnostics, clinical pathology, and immunology will provide lectures on relevant topics pertaining to application of translational research to improve cancer patient outcomes.

Instructor(s): E. Izumchenko and R. Bednarczyk     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a biology fundamentals sequence.

BIOS 26120. An Introduction to Bioinformatics and Proteomics. 100 Units.

Modern biology generates massive amounts of data; this course is devoted to biological information and the models and techniques used to make sense of it. Students learn about biological databases, algorithms for sequence alignment, phylogenetic tree building, and systems biology. They will also learn about the basics of large-scale study of proteins, particularly their structures and functions. Students will be introduced to basics of high performance computation (HPC) and its application to the field of bioinformatics. They will learn how to use our in-house Super Computer to process and analyze next generation sequencing data. Using state of the art tools, students will align and genotype a group of genes in order to identify disease-relevant variants. The course will be taught as a hands on computer approach (a computation background would be helpful, but not needed).

Instructor(s): E. Haddadian     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence or BIOS 20172 or consent of Instructor. No computation background required.
Note(s): CB.

BIOS 26121. Introduction to Transcriptomics. 100 Units.

Transcriptomics is the study of the transcriptome -the complete set of RNA or transcripts that are produced by the genome, using high-throughput methods. In this course, students will learn about modern techniques used to capture and analyze mRNA and the connections of transcriptomics to epi-genomics (study of the epi-genome) and proteomics (study of proteins). The course will be divided into three parts: 1) Introduction of technologies that generate transcriptomics data, 2) Statistical analysis of the data, and 3) Case studies and applications. A range of topics relevant to the current practices in the field will be discussed, including introduction to microarrays, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), bulk and single-cell RNA processing, machine learning techniques used in data analyses, data pre-processing, differential expression analysis, and correcting batch effects and other experimental artifacts. Students will obtain hands-on experience in downloading public-domain data and performing analyses using different packages written in R and Python. After taking the class, students will have a working knowledge of the field and acquire experience in RNA-seq data analyses that are currently used in research labs. We will also organize visits to research laboratories and sequencing facility for the students to observe experimental workflows used in cutting-edge research.

Instructor(s): A. Basu, M. Chen     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20151 Intro to Quantitative Modeling or BIOS 20152 Intro to Quantitative Modeling (Adv.)
Note(s): CB.

BIOS 26122. Introduction to Machine Learning for Biology. 100 Units.

Machine learning techniques are essential in many fields of biology that rely on large amounts of data. This course is intended to introduce key concepts in this field and illustrate their applications to biological questions. Students will learn about methods for supervised and unsupervised learning; regression and classification algorithms, and dimensionality reduction approaches. With every method we will emphasize model selection and validation on real data sets. Computational labs are an integral part of the course for students to work on applying these methods using R in the Quarto document system.

Instructor(s): D. Kondrashov     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 20151, BIOS 20172 or BIOS 20236. STAT 22000 or equivalent.
Note(s): L. CB.
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 21710

BIOS 26123. Introduction to Python for Biologists & Neuroscientists. 100 Units.

This course aims to provide a basis for solving problems in biology and neuroscience using the Python Programing Language. You will learn how to utilize Jupyter notebooks to code in python. By the end of the course you will develop comfortability in utilizing key Python libraries for biological and/or neuroscience datasets. No prior knowledge of Python is expected or required.

Instructor(s): A. Venkat     Terms Offered: Autumn
Note(s): CB.
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 21820

BIOS 26210-26211. Mathematical Methods for Biological Sciences I-II.

The following two courses are intended to be taken as a sequence.

BIOS 26311. Introduction to Mathematical Modeling in Public Health. 100 Units.

Modeling is a simplified representation of reality that aims to capture essential features of a real-life object or process. Mathematical modeling in public health encompasses a wide array of methodologies offering a powerful toolkit to approach questions that would otherwise be extremely difficult or impossible to answer. This course will introduce students to the conceptual framework of mechanistic modeling and cover the basics of the most widely used mathematical modeling approaches in public health. The course will combine lectures and interactive computer sessions to help students develop practical skills of using basic quantitative techniques.

Instructor(s): O. Morozova     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): The course assumes that students have prior coursework in basic probability and statistics and have basic coding skills. Familiarity with R statistical computing environment is recommended but not required. Courses that would provide the appropriate background include BIOS 20151, STAT 22000, STAT 25100 and PBHS 32100. Undergraduates: First 3 quarters of a Biology Fundamentals Sequence.
Note(s): E. CB. GP.
Equivalent Course(s): PBHS 31100

BIOS 26318. Fundamentals of Biological Data Analysis. 100 Units.

This course is intended for students who have original data from a research project and are looking to produce a thesis or publication. Students will learn to organize, process, visualize, and make inferences from biological data sets using the data processing tools of R. We will review statistics concepts, such as probability distributions, linear and nonlinear fitting, estimation and hypothesis testing, and introduce new concepts relevant for the specific research questions identified by the students. The end result will be a written report that can function as a methods and results section of a research publication and contains high-quality graphics.

Instructor(s): D. Kondrashov, S. Allesina     Terms Offered: Autumn. L.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence, STAT 22000 or higher, and fourth-year standing, or consent of Instructor. Primarily intended for students that have a data set from original research.
Note(s): CB.

BIOS 26403. Quantitative Immunobiology. 100 Units.

The science of immunology was born at the end of the 19th century as a discipline focused on the body's defenses against infection. The following 120+ years has led to the discovery of a myriad of cellular and molecular players in immunity, placing the immune system alongside the most complex systems such as Earth's global climate and the human brain. The functions and malfunctions of the immune system have been implicated in virtually all human diseases. It is thought that cracking the complexity of the immune system will help manipulate and engineer it against some of the most vexing diseases of our times such as AIDS and cancer. To tackle this complexity, immunology in the 21st century - similar to much of the biological sciences - is growing closer to mathematics and data sciences, physics, chemistry and engineering. A central challenge is to use the wealth of large datasets generated by modern day measurement tools in biology to create knowledge, and ultimately predictive models of how the immune system works and can be manipulated. The goal of this course is to introduce motivated students to the quantitative approaches and reasoning applied to fundamental questions in immunology.

Instructor(s): Nicolas Chevrier      Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Completion of the first two quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence. Knowledge of R is recommended but not required. Courses in immunology and microbiology are an advantage but not required (e.g., BIOS 25256 Immunobiology; BIOS 25206 Fundamentals of Bacterial Physiology).
Note(s): CB
Equivalent Course(s): IMMU 34800, MENG 33300, MENG 23300

BIOS 26404. Quantitative Genetics for the 21st Century. 100 Units.

This course has three parts. In the first four weeks, we take a deep look at some fundamentals of quantitative genetics, focusing on underlying mathematical theory and causal interpretations of basic quantitative genetic models. These include the breeder's equation and related descriptions of the response to natural selection, various methods of estimating heritability, GWAS methods accounting for environmental effects, and explicit causal inference methods like Mendelian randomization. In the next three weeks of the course, we discuss the scientific opportunities and pitfalls of applying these fundamental quantitative genetic tools in challenging settings. This section covers phenotypic prediction with polygenic scores, inferences about quantitative trait evolution, and the application of quantitative genetic tools to complex social traits like educational attainment. Finally, in the third section we examine the relationship between race, genetics, and complex traits. In this section we discuss definitions of race and how they are (or are not) related to genetics, as well as ongoing legitimate scientific debates over how racial classifications are used in medicine. We will also critique pseudoscientific arguments about the relationship between race, genetics and complex traits.

Instructor(s): Jeremy Berg, Andrew Dahl      Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): R/Python proficiency.
Equivalent Course(s): HGEN 47800

BIOS 26405. From Data to Understanding: Computational Biology in Microbial Ecosystems. 100 Units.

This course focuses on transforming biology from descriptive to predictive science through quantitative data analysis. Central to this shift are statistical, mathematical, and computing tools. Students will learn to extract meaning from data, understanding both what it reveals and its limitations. The course isn't about machine learning, statistics, or mathematical modeling per se. Instead, it emphasizes how these tools help us interpret data. We'll explore these concepts through the practical problem of identifying significant dynamics and patterns in data. Our learning context is microbial communities, ubiquitous across various habitats and exhibiting immense complexity and diversity. Despite advances in DNA sequencing, predicting and controlling these systems remains challenging. This course combines insights from ecology, microbiology, physics, engineering, chemistry, and computer science to build quantitative, predictive models for these complex systems. Students will be introduced to forefront methods and questions in this evolving field, focusing on computational data analysis.

Instructor(s): S. Kuehn     Terms Offered: Spring. Spring quarter in even years.
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a biological sciences Fundamentals Sequence AND 2 quarters of calculus, statistics, or physics, or BIOS 26210-26211 and any course that includes programming in Python (e.g. Intro to Data Science I (DATA11800), II (DATA11900), Introduction to Computer Programming I (CMSC 14100).
Note(s): CB.

BIOS 27710-27711-27712-27713-27714-27715. MARINE BIOLOGICAL LABORATORY SEMESTER IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE.

Marine Biological Laboratory Semester in Environmental Science Sequence (SES). Courses BIOS 27710-27715 are the College designations for the Semester in Environmental Science that is taught at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Registration in BIOS 27710, 27711, and 27712, plus one of BIOS 27713, 27714, or 27715 is required. Admission to the Semester in Environmental Science program is by application, which must be received by the MBL in March of the year preceding the start of the semester. Admissions decisions will be mailed in April. Note that these courses start at the beginning of September, typically four weeks prior to the start of the College’s Autumn Quarter and are completed by the end of Autumn Quarter. More information on the course content and the application process can be found at https://college.uchicago.edu/academics/semester-environmental-science.

BIOS 27720-27723-27725-27726. SEPTEMBER COURSES AT MARINE BIOLOGICAL LABORATORY, WOODS HOLE.

The September courses combine lecture with hands-on learning and development of independent research ideas and projects. All are taught by University of Chicago or MBL faculty, and take advantage of the unique research strengths and the natural environmental resources found at MBL. These are intensive, three-week-long courses that meet for up to eight hours per day for 5–6 days per week, combining morning lectures with afternoon labs and fieldwork. Each student can only enroll in one course at a time. The September courses at MBL have no prerequisites, and can count either to fulfill the general education requirement in Biology OR as an upper-level elective. Also offered in this program is HIPS 18507 Science, Culture, and Society III: From Natural History to Biomedicine. More information, including application details and program fees, can be found at https://college.uchicago.edu/academics/mbl-september-courses. The MBL September courses end before classes commence in Chicago.

BIOS 27724-27750-27751. BIOLOGY SPRING QUARTER COURSES AT MARINE BIOLOGICAL LABORATORY.

These courses are part of an interdisciplinary four-course program given during Spring Quarter at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. BIOS 20198 Biodiversity (Section 2) will also be offered in this program. The non-BIOS courses in this program are PHYS 12400 Waves, Optics, and Modern Physics at MBL and ARTV 10100 Visual Language: On Images. For more information, see https://college.uchicago.edu/academics/mbl-spring-quarter-biology.

BIOS 27752. Dynamic Camouflage: Behavior, Visual Perception and Neural Skin Patterning in Cephalopods. 100 Units.

This course takes an integrative approach to understanding a neurally controlled system of dynamic defense against visual predators. Camouflage is a widespread form of defense throughout the animal kingdom in every known habitat - land or sea. In the oceans, cephalopods (cuttlefish, octopus, squid) have evolved a sophisticated sensorimotor system called Rapid Adaptive Coloration, which can instantaneously change their total body appearance within a fraction of a second to range from highly camouflaged to startlingly conspicuous for a wide range of behaviors. The forms and functions of this dynamic system will be teased apart in integrative fashion in a top-down approach from ecology to organismal biology to organs, tissues and cells. The course touches on neural anatomy, sensation, visual perception (including psychophysics) and animal behavior. There are also applied biology aspects of this system that will be presented as well.

Instructor(s): R. Hanlon     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the MBL Neuroscience Spring Quarter Program
Note(s): E.
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 21530

BIOS 27753. Fundamentals of Synapses. 100 Units.

In this course, students will learn about the fundamentals of synapses, from molecular analysis to structure and function. Marine and aquatic models have historically provided a unique opportunity to investigate synaptic function due to the large size of their neurons, including the synaptic connections. Today, these synapse models are used to study basic principles of neuron-to-neuron communication (synaptic transmission), as well as disease mechanisms. In addition to lectures and discussions of key literature, this course will feature hands-on laboratory-based exercises in molecular genetics, imaging and physiology of synapses, as well as independent "discovery" projects to explore new topics in synapse biology.

Instructor(s): J. Morgan, J. Rosenthal     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into a Spring Quarter program at MBL
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 21510

BIOS 27760. An Introduction to Parasitology. 100 Units.

This course introduces the diversity of parasitic organisms, both protozoan and metazoan, and explores the life cycles, morphology, genomics, pathology, immunology, epidemiology, and treatment and control of major parasite groups. The focus will be on aquatic species, including those that cause disease in humans and livestock. The course will involve lectures, a journal club and lab work including carrying out a research project. The lab work and research project will include working on parasitic flatworms; in particular investigating the molecular and cellular biology of a tropical species, Schistosoma mansoni, that is medically important. Here, in this research-led institute, you will contribute novel data and information to ongoing research at MBL that will advance our understanding of parasites. The lab portion will introduce the morphological and molecular techniques that form part of the toolkit used by parasitologists to understand the biology of these organisms, an essential step in the search and development of novel control strategies and therapeutics.

Instructor(s): K. Rawlinson     Terms Offered: TBD
Note(s): Offered at The Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, MA.

BIOS 27810. Epidemiology and Population Health. 100 Units.

Epidemiology is the basic science of public health. It is the study of how diseases are distributed across populations and how one designs population-based studies to learn about disease causes, with the object of identifying preventive strategies. Epidemiology is a quantitative field and draws on biostatistical methods. Historically, epidemiology's roots were in the investigation of infectious disease outbreaks and epidemics. Since the mid-twentieth century, the scope of epidemiologic investigations has expanded to a fuller range non-infectious diseases and health problems. This course will introduce classic studies, study designs and analytic methods, with a focus on global health problems.

Instructor(s): D. Lauderdale     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): STAT 22000 or other introductory statistics highly desirable. For BIOS students-completion of the first three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence.
Note(s): This course does not meet requirements for the biological sciences major.
Equivalent Course(s): HLTH 20910, STAT 22810, PPHA 36410, ENST 27400, PBHS 30910

BIOS 27815. Infectious Diseases. 100 Units.

This course will examine infectious diseases with global health impact, analyzing their historic and projected impact, biological foundations, and preventive control. Course topics include gastrointestinal infections (e.g., cholera, bacillary dysentery, typhoid fever, rotavirus infections), sexually transmitted diseases (HIV), infections transmitted via aerosol droplets (tuberculosis, meningitis), and vector borne diseases (e.g., malaria, typhus, dengue fever, plague). Special emphasis will be placed on emerging infectious diseases (Ebola, Coronavirus) and the role of vaccines and other strategies for infectious disease elimination (smallpox, polio, malaria, river blindness). The course encompasses lectures and student presentations. Students have the option to write a paper in lieu of a final exam

Instructor(s): Beavis, K; Brook, C.     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence or consent of instructor.
Note(s): This course is offered in Paris. For more information see: https://study-abroad.uchicago.edu/paris-global-health

BIOS 28101-28102. Science Communication.

The ability to communicate the importance, excitement, and rigor of science to the general public is a critical skill for scientists. By translating scientific research scientists can, among other things, shape public policy, create an informed voting population, and encourage funding for research. In these two courses, open to third- and fourth-year undergraduates, students will critically analyze different communication strategies and practice communicating science through assignments and interactive skill-building sessions. In BIOS 28101, students will translate primary research into written story form and publish their work on a digital platform. In BIOS 28102, students will communicate primary research by creating a TED Talk–style video. Students can take a single course or both courses. Either BIOS 28101 or BIOS 28102 (but not both) can be applied toward a major in Biological Sciences. Students who would like to explore science communications in greater detail are encouraged to consider the minor in science communications and public discourse (http://collegecatalog.uchicago.edu/thecollege/sciencecommunicationpublicdiscourse).

BIOS 28105. Ethics through a Neurobiological Lens. 100 Units.

This class surveys a range of ethical dilemmas as viewed from a neurobiological perspective. Using their working knowledge of functional neuroanatomy, students will be expected to understand and articulate the reasoning behind multiple viewpoints for each topic. Then, students will be asked to discuss a particular case study that revolves around the week's topic, and write a one-page summary of what they learned from the week's discussion. For a final project, students will study one of the dilemmas presented or one of their own choosing.

Instructor(s): P. Mason     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): At least one course in the Neuroscience Major Fundamental Sequence (NSCI 20101, OR NSCI 20111, OR NSCI 20130)
Equivalent Course(s): NSCI 21750

BIOS 28407. Genomics and Systems Biology. 100 Units.

This lecture course explores technologies for high-throughput collection of genomic-scale data, including sequencing, genotyping, gene expression profiling, and assays of copy number variation, protein expression and protein-protein interaction. In addition, the course will cover study design and statistic analysis of large data sets, as well as how data from different sources can be used to understand regulatory networks, i.e., systems. Statistical tools that will be introduced include linear models, likelihood-based inference, supervised and unsupervised learning techniques, methods for assessing quality of data, hidden Markov models, and controlling for false discovery rates in large data sets. Readings will be drawn from the primary literature. Evaluation will be based primarily on problem sets.

Instructor(s): Yang Li Sebastian Pott Joshua A. Weinstein     Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Three quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals sequence including BIOS 20187 or BIOS 20235 and STAT 23400 or BIOS 26210 and BIOS 26211
Note(s): CB.
Equivalent Course(s): BPHS 47300, HGEN 47300, IMMU 47300, CABI 47300

BIOS 28411. Quantitative Systems Biology. 100 Units.

This course aims to provide students with knowledge on the use of modern methods for the analysis, manipulation, and modeling of complex biological systems, and to introduce them to some of the most important applications in quantitative and systems biology. We will first survey theoretical concepts and tools for analysis and modeling of biological systems like biomolecules, gene networks, single cells, and multicellular systems. Concepts from information theory, biochemical networks, control theory, and linear systems will be introduced. Mathematical modeling of biological interactions will be discussed. We will then survey quantitative experimental methods currently used in systems biology. These methods include single cell genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic analysis techniques, in vivo and in vitro quantitative analysis of cellular and molecular interactions, single molecule methods, live cell imaging, high throughput microfluidic analysis, and gene editing. Finally, we will focus on case studies where the quantitative systems approach made a significant difference in the understanding of fundamental phenomena like signaling, immunity, development, and diseases like infection, autoimmunity, and cancer.

Instructor(s): Savas Tay     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Completion of the first two quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence
Equivalent Course(s): MENG 32300, MENG 22300

BIOS 28700. Biodiagnostics and Biosensors. 100 Units.

This course focuses on the biological and chemical interactions that are important for the diagnosis of diseases and the design of new assays. The principles and mechanisms of molecular diagnostics and biosensors, as well as their applications in disease diagnosis, will be discussed. Bioanalytical methods including electrochemical, optical, chemical separation, and spectroscopic will be described. Surface functionalization and biomolecular interactions will be presented for the development of protein and DNA based biosensor applications. The goals for the course are to introduce the fundamental mechanisms of bioanalytical methods/tools, examples of specific methods for diagnostic purposes, and analytical methods necessary for developing new precision medicine tools.

Instructor(s): Mustafa Guler      Terms Offered: Spring
Prerequisite(s): Completion of the first two quarters of a Biological Sciences Fundamentals Sequence
Equivalent Course(s): MENG 23140, MENG 33140

BIOS 28900. Undergraduate Bachelor of Science Research. 100 Units.

Students who are completing the Biological Sciences major with a BS degree must register for this course in the autumn of the fourth year (see guidelines at https://college.uchicago.edu/academics/bs-guidelines-and-timeline) unless they are enrolled in the research course for the BSCD Honors program (BIOS 00296. Undergraduate Honors Research.) We will hold five mandatory evening sessions in Autumn Quarter and five mandatory evening sessions in Winter Quarter. Participants will give short presentations on their thesis research during these evening sessions. Students will receive a quality grade for the course upon submission of an approved BS thesis in Spring Quarter. BIOS 28900 can be counted as one upper-level elective toward the Biological Sciences major and may be counted among the three upper-level courses required for the BS.

Instructor(s): C. Andrews     Terms Offered: Autumn
Prerequisite(s): Students must be Biological Sciences majors pursuing the BS degree. This course is not open to students in the BSCD Honors program who are enrolled in BIOS 00296. (Undergraduate Honors Research).

BIOS 02280. Drinking Alcohol: Social Problem or Normal Cultural Practice? 100 Units.

Alcohol is the most widely used psychoactive agent in the world, and, as archaeologists have recently demonstrated, it has a very long history dating back at least 9,000 years. This course will explore the issue of alcohol and drinking from a trans-disciplinary perspective. It will be co-taught by an anthropologist/archaeologist with experience in alcohol research and a neurobiologist who has experience with addiction research. Students will be confronted with literature on alcohol research from anthropology, sociology, history, biology, medicine, psychology, and public health and asked to think through the conflicts and contradictions. Selected case studies will be used to focus the discussion of broader theoretical concepts and competing perspectives introduced in the first part of the course. Topics for lectures and discussion include: fermentation and the chemistry and pharmacology of alcohol; the early history of alcohol; histories of drinking in ancient, medieval, and modern times; alcohol and the political economy; alcohol as a cultural artifact; styles of drinking and intoxication; how is alcohol metabolized; addiction; how does alcohol affect sensations; social problems; alcohol and religion; alcohol and health benefits; comparative case studies of drinking.

Instructor(s): M. Dietler, W. Green     Terms Offered: Not offered in 2024-2025
Prerequisite(s): Third or fourth-year standing.
Note(s): This course does not meet requirements for the biological sciences major.
Equivalent Course(s): HLTH 25310, BPRO 22800, ANTH 25310

BIOS 02490. Biology and Sociology of AIDS. 100 Units.

This interdisciplinary course deals with current issues of the AIDS epidemic.

Instructor(s): H. Pollack, J. Schneider     Terms Offered: Not offered in 2024-2025
Prerequisite(s): Third- or fourth-year standing
Note(s): This course does not meet requirements for the biological sciences major.
Equivalent Course(s): SSAD 65100, BPRO 24900

BIOS 29326. Introduction to Medical Physics and Medical Imaging. 100 Units.

This course covers the interaction of radiation with matter and the exploitation of such interactions for medical imaging and cancer treatment. Topics in medical imaging include X-ray imaging and radionuclide imaging, as well as advanced technologies that provide three-dimensional images, including X-ray computed tomography (CT), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasonic imaging.

Instructor(s): P. La Riviere, S. Armato.     Terms Offered: Winter
Prerequisite(s): This course does not meet requirements for the Biological Sciences major.
Equivalent Course(s): MPHY 29326

BIOS 29814. Biological and Social Determinants of Health. 100 Units.

Global health is an interdisciplinary and empirical field, requiring holistic and innovative approaches to navigate an ever-changing environment in the pursuit of health equity. This course will emphasize specific health challenges facing vulnerable populations in low resource settings including in the United States and the large scale social, political, and economic forces that contribute to them through topical events and case studies. Students will study the importance of science and technology, key institutions and stakeholders; environmental impacts on health; ethical considerations in research and interventions; maternal and child health; health and human rights; international legal frameworks and global health diplomacy. Students will gain skills in technical writing as they construct position statements and policy briefs on global health issues of interest. Career opportunities in global health will be explored throughout the course.

Instructor(s): C. Olopade, K. Beavis      Terms Offered: Winter. This course is offered every Winter quarter in Paris.
Prerequisite(s): BIOS 27810 or consent of instructor.
Note(s): This course counts towards the Biological Sciences major ONLY for students in the Global & Public Health Track.
Equivalent Course(s): CCTS 22003, CCTS 42003

BIOS 00199. Undergraduate Research. 100 Units.

This course may be elected for up to three quarters. Before Friday of fifth week of the quarter in which they register, students must submit a one-page summary of the research that they are planning to their research sponsor and to the director of undergraduate research and honors. A detailed two to three page summary on the completed work must be submitted to the research sponsor and the Master of BSCD before Friday of examination week.

Instructor(s): BSCD Master     Terms Offered: Autumn,Spring,Summer,Winter
Prerequisite(s): Consent of research sponsor and the Master of BSCD.
Note(s): Students are required to submit the College Reading and Research Course Form. This course is graded P/F. This course does not meet requirements for the biological sciences major.

BIOS 00206. Readings: Biology. 100 Units.

Students may register for only one BIOS 00206 tutorial per quarter. Enrollment must be completed by the end of the second week of the quarter. This tutorial offers individually designed readings.

Terms Offered: Summer,Autumn,Winter,Spring
Prerequisite(s): Consent of faculty sponsor
Note(s): Students are required to submit the College Reading and Research Course Form. This course is graded P/F. This course does not meet requirements for the biological sciences major.

BIOS 00296. Undergraduate Honors Research. 100 Units.

This course is required for students accepted into the BSCD Research Honors program. Students must register for this course both Autumn and Winter Quarters of their fourth year. This course can be counted toward the Biological Sciences major and may be counted among the three upper-level courses required for the BS. See also bscd.uchicago.edu/page/honors-biology. Quality grade. Prerequisite(s): Consent Only. Acceptance in BSCD Honors Research Program.

Instructor(s): S. Kron     Terms Offered: Autumn,Winter
Prerequisite(s): Consent Only. Acceptance in BSCD Honors Research Program.

BIOS 00299. Advanced Research: Biological Sciences. 100 Units.

Before Friday of fifth week of the quarter in which they register, students must submit a one-page summary of the research that they are planning to their research sponsor and to the director of undergraduate research and honors. A detailed two to three page summary on the completed work must be submitted to the research sponsor and the Master of BSCD before Friday of examination week. This course does may be counted as a general elective but does not meet requirements for the Biological Sciences major. In the first quarter of registration, students must submit College Reading and Research form to their research sponsor and the director of undergraduate research and honors.

Instructor(s): BSCD Master     Terms Offered: Autumn,Spring,Summer,Winter
Prerequisite(s): Fourth-year standing and consent of research sponsor and Master of BSCD.
Note(s): Students are required to submit the College Reading and Research Course Form. This course is graded P/F.