This course explores the structure, function, and organization of DNA to understand how the physical traits and functions of a cell are related to the genes they possess. It takes an in depth look at how genetic information flows from genes to proteins and how these processes are regulated in bacteria. This course will also cover the sources of genetic variation in bacteria and how they allow bacteria to adapt to their environments. 

By understanding these fundamental processes, we can then examine molecular techniques used to manipulate DNA and their applications in research and biotechnology. In the lab portion of this course, students will apply molecular genetic techniques, such as transposon mutagenesis, PCR, cloning, and DNA sequencing, to study the function of bacterial genes in an authentic research project.

Course Prerequisites: BIOL 120 or 125, BIOL 271, CHEM 110, CHEM 111

From the moment we are born, we are surrounded by microbes both inside and outside our bodies. While the vast majority of microbes are beneficial or neutral to humans, a small percentage can cause hundreds of infectious diseases. In this course, we will examine the features that define pathogenic microbes and how they evade or manipulate the immune system to cause disease. 

We will survey major pathogen groups by the organ systems they infect. We will also examine the human microbiome, the microbes that establish life-long symbioses and play beneficial roles in human health. In the lab, we will use clinical morphological, physiological, and molecular techniques to identify bacterial pathogens. We will also characterize the microbiome of one of your body sites!

Course Prerequisites: BIOL 120 or 125, CHEM 110, CHEM 111

Although bacteria are microscopic, single-cell organisms, they must coordinate the same processes to grow and reproduce as any multicellular animal. In this course, you will learn how bacteria acquire energy and nutrients to build their cell structures and divide. We will explore how bacteria sense changes in their environment, respond to stress, and even communicate with each other to form communities. Many of these chemical and physical processes formed the foundation that all cells have evolved to use. In the lab, you will conduct authentic research projects to characterize many of these physiological traits in environmental bacteria.

Course Prerequisites: BIOL 120 or BIOL 271, CHEM 110, CHEM 111