2011-12 Catalog

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2011-12 Undergraduate Index A-Z

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Biochemistry [clear]


Title   Offering Standing Credits Credits When F W S Su Description Preparatory Faculty Days Multiple Standings Start Quarters Open Quarters
Foundations of Health Science
Benjamin Simon, Glenn Landram and Lydia McKinstry
Signature Required: Winter  Spring 
  Program FR–SRFreshmen - Senior 16 16 Day F 11 Fall W 12Winter S 12Spring This year-long, laboratory-based program will offer students a conceptual and methodological introduction to biology and chemistry with a focus on health and medicine. We will use organizing themes that link the science of human health with the economic, financial, ethical and legal issues associated with the demand and cost of medical research and public health care. Over the course of three quarters, we will study portions of general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, general biology, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, statistics, economics and management, and human behavior. Students will use scientific processes, quantitative reasoning and hands-on experiences to develop problem-solving skills directed at understanding these subjects in the context of human health. This program is primarily designed for students contemplating work in medicine and allied health fields, including nursing, physical therapy, midwifery, athletic training, nutrition and others. This program is also appropriate for students interested in public health or public policy who want a solid foundation in biology and chemistry or students who wish to study rigorous science as part of a liberal arts education. Program activities will include lectures, laboratories, small-group problem-solving workshops, homework, field trips and seminars. Our readings and discussions will be concerned with the economic, ethical and scientific aspects of human health as they relate to the global community as well as individuals. Students will undertake assignments focused on interpreting and integrating the topics covered. During spring quarter, students will participate in small-group collaboration on a scientific investigation relevant to the program content. Project topics will be developed under the direction of the faculty and students will describe the results of this research through formal writing and public presentation. All program work will emphasize quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and development of proficiency in scientific writing and speaking skills. Upon completion of this program students will have gained some of the prerequisites necessary for careers in the allied health fields and public health administration. Students will also be prepared for further studies in upper division science. Students who master the biology and chemistry work in this program will be prepared to enroll in the Molecule to Organism program. Students preparing for medical school will likely need further coursework in inorganic or general chemistry to fulfill prerequisites for medical school. Overall, we expect students to end the program in the spring with a working knowledge of scientific, social and economic principles relating to human health and public health care. We also expect that they will have gained an ability to apply these principles to solving real world problems relating to natural science, disease and human health. medicine and allied health fields, and public health administration. Benjamin Simon Glenn Landram Lydia McKinstry Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter Spring
Individual Study: Genetics, Developmental Biology
Donald Morisato
Signature Required: Winter 
  Contract SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day W 12Winter Individual study offers students the opportunity to develop self-direction, to learn how to manage a personal project, and to focus on unique combinations of interesting topics.  Students are invited to submit a proposal if they are interested in investigating one of the following areas in genetics and developmental biology:  molecular mechanisms of axis determination, pattern formation, embryogenesis, stem cells, gene regulation, and epigenetic inheritance.  In order to be successful, students should have a solid background in the principles of molecular biology and be able to work independently. Donald Morisato Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Winter Winter
Models in Biology
Karen Hogan
  Program SO–SRSophomore - Senior 12 12 Evening and Weekend F 11 Fall Models allow us to test our understanding of particular systems and, if the models are good, to make predictions.  Types of models include conceptual, graphical, mathematical, and systems simulation models.  In biology, processes that can be modeled range from Michaelis-Menten analysis of enzyme kinetics, to diffusion of carbon dioxide and water into and out of a leaf, to population dynamics of plant and animal species, to global climate models.   This program will look at a range of approaches to modeling different levels of biological processes.  After an introduction to modeling concepts and techniques, students will work in groups to construct models of biological processes of their own choosing.  A high level of engagement and initiative is expected in this program; upper-division credit is possible.  Students willing to share their expertise in some area of mathematics or computing are encouraged to participate. Karen Hogan Wed Sat Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall
Molecule to Organism
James Neitzel, Steven Verhey and Michael Paros
  Program SO–SRSophomore - Senior 16 16 Day F 11 Fall W 12Winter S 12Spring biology, chemistry, education, medicine, pharmacy and health science. James Neitzel Steven Verhey Michael Paros Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with J. Neitzel
James Neitzel
Signature Required: Fall  Winter  Spring 
  Research SO–SRSophomore - Senior V V Day F 11 Fall W 12Winter S 12Spring Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. This independent learning opportunity allows advanced students to delve into real-world research with faculty who are currently engaged in specific projects. Students typically begin by working in apprenticeship with faculty or laboratory staff and gradually take on more independent projects within the context of the specific research program as they gain experience. Students can develop vital skills in research design, data acquisition and interpretation, written and oral communication, collaboration, and critical thinking that are valuable for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market. (biochemistry) uses methods from organic and analytical chemistry to study biologically interesting molecules. A major focus of his current work is on fatty acids; in particular, finding spectroscopic and chromatographic methods to identify fatty acids in complex mixtures and to detect changes that occur in fats during processing or storage. This has relevance both for foods as well as in biodiesel production. The other major area of interest is in plant natural products, such as salicylates. Work is in process screening local plants for the presence of these molecules, which are important plant defense signals. Work is also supported in determining the nutritional value of indigenous plants. Students with a background and interest in organic, analytical, or biochemistry could contribute to this work. biochemistry, alternative energy, health sciences. James Neitzel Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR Fall Fall Winter Spring