Winter 2015 Biology Special Topics Courses Biol 160-­‐04: Marine Mammals Marine mammals include many majestic species such as dolphins, whales, seals, and polar bears. This course will survey basic biological principles as they apply to marine mammals and incorporate current research and conservation efforts of these unique species. Field trips and laboratory components will supplement in-­‐class learning. A student project will be required tailored to the interest and application of course material. Topics for lecture will include human influences, conservation, captivity of marine mammals, physiology, identification, and unique characteristics. 2 cr. Meets core requirement for science; does not count toward the biology major. Biol 160-­‐03: Urban Wildlife Cities and roads fragment habitats for most species in the world. This course examines how urban development impacts animal distributions, adaptations of species which heavily use urban environments, and how future conservation efforts might find a compromise between the existence of humans and wildlife. The course will conclude with groups re-­‐designing present-­‐day cities for the year 2065 to integrate natural habitats into urban landscapes. Field trips will include visits to urban parks and the Portland Audubon wildlife care center. 2 cr. Meets core requirement for science; does not count toward the biology major. Biol 360-­‐03: Primatology This course will present and discuss the nonhuman primates. We will begin with an introduction to primate evolution and taxonomy and an introduction to behavioral ecology. We will then examine and discuss select groups of living primates. Thereafter, topics such as conservation, social behavior, cooperation, competition, and reproduction will be highlighted as we cover the wide array of factors related to the lives of the nonhuman primates. Prerequisite: Biol 204. 2 cr. Elective credit for the biology major. Biol 385-­‐01: Junior Seminar We will offer junior seminar for the first time during winter. It will meet the biology major requirement. Spring 2015 Biology Special Topics Courses Biol 360-­‐01: Neurobiology An analysis of the biology of neurons and the nervous system. We will use studies in a variety of model organisms to explore major topics in neurobiology, including the molecular basis of electrical excitability in neurons, transfer of information across synapses, mechanisms of sensation, learning and memory, behavior, and development of the nervous system. Prerequisite: Biol 204. 4 cr. Elective credit for the biology major. Biol 360-­‐04: Barcode of Life: Identifying Species with DNA Barcoding
"DNA Barcoding" uses a short genetic sequence to identify biological species. Students will use
molecular, genetic and bioinformatic skills on projects such as: investigating local biodiversity in and
around campus, identifying invasive species and detecting food mislabeling. Prerequisite: Biol 204. 2 cr.
Elective credit for the biology major
Biol 360-­‐03: Parasitology This course will be taught as a combination of lectures and discussions. Lectures will focus on case studies of different parasites that infect humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. These case studies will explore the diversity of parasite life cycles, behaviors, and pathologies. Discussions will be based on investigative scenarios that focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and control of disease. Ultimately, the course will show how society’s reaction to pathogens has impacted the global environment, socioeconomics, immunology, technology, and the ecology of the parasites themselves and we will debate how to build a healthier future. Prerequisite: Biol 204. 4 cr. Elective credit for the biology major.