2012-13 Undergraduate Index A-Z

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Title	Offering	Standing	Credits	Credits	When	F	W	S	Su	Description	Preparatory	Faculty	Days	Multiple Standings	Start Quarters	Open Quarters
Adaptation: Evolutionary Patterns in Biological Space-Time Bret Weinstein anthropology biology botany cultural studies ecology environmental studies natural history zoology	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter					Bret Weinstein		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter
Advanced Research of Arid Ecosystems Abir Biswas and Clarissa Dirks biochemistry biology ecology environmental studies field studies geology Signature Required: Spring	Program	JR–SRJunior - Senior	16	16	Day			S 13Spring		This program is designed for students who have a strong background in biology or geology and would like to do advanced work around either topic as it applies to arid ecosystems in the Southwestern U.S. or Eastern Washington State, though there may be opportunities for students to contrast arid systems with more temperate forest ecosystems in Western Washington State. There will be an emphasis on student- and faculty-derived research projects throughout and students will meet regularly with faculty to discuss progress and receive feedback. Students with prior backgrounds or analytical experience in biology and/or geology, seeking to join the program in the spring to conduct field- and/or lab-based research projects are encouraged to contact the faculty early. Students will need to develop their research proposals in the first 2 weeks of the quarter while studying the primary literature. Students will then be conducting their proposed field work and/or laboratory work in weeks 3-6. Students will spend the rest of the quarter completing their analyses in preparation for presenting their work at the end of the program. The expectations and workload will be based on advanced work for upper division credit. In part, the content and themes of this program will be merged with another ongoing program offered by the faculty. Students continuing from that program will have developed group research proposals that will be the basis of their spring research project component. The work of those students is not advanced and the expectations are different. These two groups will meet together only for certain lectures or other activities whereby both will learn more about the faculty research projects and arid/southwest ecosystems. Advanced research students could potentially join the Grand Canyon river trip to conduct research studying Southwestern ecosystems but would need to contact the faculty as soon as possible (prior to Spring quarter registration). Students could also conduct comparative field work in arid or temperate ecosystems in Washington State that will be the basis of their quarter-long research project.		Abir Biswas Clarissa Dirks		Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
Anatomy and Physiology Cindy Beck biology health physiology	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	8	08	Evening and Weekend	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter			Students will study the anatomy and physiology of the human body using a systems approach. Students will also explore the interrelationship of health and disease in the human body by studying common pathological conditions. Each system will be covered utilizing a traditional lecture and laboratory format. At the conclusion of each system, students will demonstrate their knowledge through exams and research projects.Credits in this class meet some requirements for the MiT program as well as prerequisites for many graduate programs in health sciences.	wellness, health, and health-related fields	Cindy Beck	Mon Wed	Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter
The Biological and Sociological Foundations of Health Carolyn Prouty and Wenhong Wang biology health mathematics physiology sociology Signature Required: Winter	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter					Carolyn Prouty Wenhong Wang		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter
Biology of Ecotones and Extreme Environments: Living on the Edge Amy Cook and Gerardo Chin-Leo biology ecology marine science	Program	FR–SOFreshmen - Sophomore	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall				Boundaries between habitats (ecotones) and extreme environments (temperature, pressure and salinity) often contain diverse and productive ecosystems. This program will explore the physics and chemistry of these environments and examine the organism adaptations and ecological interactions that determine their unique biodiversity and productivity. In addition, we will examine the ecotones and extreme environments created by the expansion of human development into natural ecosystems. An understanding of the structure and function of ecotones and extreme environments can contribute to conservation biology efforts such as the design of parks and reserves and allow us to better understand how human-dominated landscapes influence natural landscapes.Through lectures, workshops and field activities, students will learn how to identify local plants and animals and will learn about the composition and ecology of several common habitats in the Pacific Northwest including coniferous forest, freshwater stream and nearshore marine. Students will examine the ecotones between these communities by identifying the resident organisms, and describing the physical characteristics of the ecotones and the dynamics of biogeochemical cycles that cross community boundaries. Taking advantage of the Evergreen campus and nearby areas as natural laboratories, we will focus on the following ecotones: intertidal zones, the boundary between freshwater aquatic systems and terrestrial systems, the transition zone between marine and freshwater (estuaries) and the ecotones associated with human-dominated landscapes. In addition, we will examine the ecology of extreme environments such as hydrothermal vents and hypersaline lagoons and the physiological adaptations that organisms have made to live in these environments.The program will provide students with the opportunity to broaden their understanding of biology and ecology, develop skills in several of the major techniques used in field ecology and improve their writing, quantitative and communication skills.		Amy Cook Gerardo Chin-Leo		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO	Fall	Fall
Biology through Darwin's Lens Jennifer Calkins biology	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	8	08	Evening and Weekend			S 13Spring		What are the structures of biological systems from cells to populations? How do biological systems store, replicate, and share information? The theory of evolution provides the best framework through which we can answer questions such as these regarding the diversity of biological systems. In this program, we will use evolutionary theory to help us explore biological patterns ranging from the structure of a cell to the organization of populations to patterns of evolutoin over time and processes ranging from the replication of genetic information to the generation of energy. In the context of our study we will investigate the diversity of biological systems, its origin, and its current threats. More specifically, we will study aspects of the structure and information of biological systems and will ask how the theory of evolution can explain the patterns and processes at these levels. This course will prepare students for further study in biology and will provide them with the biological literacy necessary to engage complex issues from cloning to conservation with knowledge and understanding. The course will include lectures and small-group seminar discussions as well as lab, computational, and field-based projects. Readings will include portions of a basic biology text, peer-reviewed research papers, and readings from popular science. Students will be responsible for keeping a journal, doing the readings, participating in group discussions and projects, and completing weekly assignments. Students will be evaluated on their participation, their assignments, and their performance on two exams.		Jennifer Calkins	Sat	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
Dance: Body, Culture and Behavior Amy Cook and Kabby Mitchell biology dance health physiology	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	16	16	Day		W 13Winter	S 13Spring		Dance is a complex mix of human physiology, emotion and culture. The term "dance" has also been used by animal behaviorists to describe movements animals do as part of courtship and other social interactions. In this program we will explore dance from these various perspectives. Students will develop the skills necessary to dance and will gain a better understanding of what is behind the movements--both in terms of anatomy and physiology and in terms of what dance means to us as humans. We will examine and perform dance, not simply within categories like ballet or modern, but from a broader perspective of movement and culture.In winter we will examine the anatomical and physiological basis of dance and other demanding activities. Through labs, lectures and workshops we will look at the structure of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and how these function both independently and together to allow us to do anything from walking across the street to performing the complex movements of dance. These ideas will be reinforced in dance workshops and students will be encouraged to learn through paying attention to what is happening in their own bodies. Students will begin to develop an understanding of the dance community and how it fits into a larger social and community context.In spring we will continue our examination of the physiology of dance and integrate energy, metabolism, balance and coordination with cultural studies. Students will continue to develop and hone their movement and dance skills in workshops and work towards a final performance in which they will be asked to show what they have learned in the program and bring together the major program themes. We will also look at the activities that animal behaviorists call dance and compare them to dance in humans. What are animals trying to communicate in their dances? Is there any evidence of individuality or creativity in animal dance? Students will be encouraged to think deeply about what dance is and whether it is unique to humans.This program is for anyone who has an interest in dance, human biology and culture and students do not need to have a background in either dance or science to succeed in the program. In taking an interdisciplinary approach to dance we hope to attract both students who have a long-term interest in dance as a career and students who have never before thought about learning to dance but are interested in human physiology and culture and would like to be involved in a creative approach to learning the major concepts of these fields.		Amy Cook Kabby Mitchell		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Winter	Winter Spring
The Diversity of Life: Explorations in Biology Martin Beagle and Trisha Towanda biology ecology	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter			Biodiversity. What is it and why does it matter? How is it measured? How is it threatened? Should we do anything about it? Around the world, people are working to develop strategies to protect Earth’s biodiversity at all levels: from the molecular codes within our cells to ecosystems that can span entire continents. Over the course of two quarters, we will undertake a systematic study of biology in order to understand and address these questions.In fall quarter, students will investigate the foundations of biology: cellular and molecular biology, genetics, physiology, evolution, and their context through the study of different biomes. We will develop an understanding of the quantitative and scientific methods used in biology as well address current issues in biology via seminar and workshop. Laboratory sessions will focus on acquiring proficiency in the techniques and instrumentation commonly used in the study of biology. Field studies will offer opportunities to experience and quantify biodiversity in the Pacific Northwest.Studies in winter quarter will continue studies of general biology and further integrate the fundamental principles of biodiversity through evolution, conservation biology, and ecology as we examine the diversity of life on our planet. We will study the flow of energy and the fluxes and pools of elements within ecosystems, while considering the diversity of organisms involved and their functional roles.Students will achieve a broad and balanced understanding of general biology through a variety of activities: workshops, seminars, lectures, labs and fieldwork, as well as student presentations. Students will apply biological concepts to explore the importance of diversity at genetic, species and ecosystem levels. Successful completion of this program will prepare students for upper-division work in the natural sciences, biology, conservation biology, environmental studies, and teaching and health professions. Upper-division science credit will not be available in this program. Upon successfully completing this program, students seeking the equivalent of can take the full-time program spring quarter to prepare for further study in natural sciences.		Martin Beagle Trisha Towanda		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter
Drawing from the Sea Gerardo Chin-Leo and Lucia Harrison aesthetics art history biology ecology environmental studies marine science maritime studies natural history visual arts Signature Required: Spring	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	16	16	Day		W 13Winter	S 13Spring		This program will examine marine environments and life (The Sea) from the perspectives of science and visual arts. This program is designed for beginning students in either discipline. The Sea accounts for a major portion of the biomass and diversity of life and plays a major role in global cycles. The Sea also is a source of inspiration for artists, and artwork provides insights into the relationships of humans to this environment. Currently, The Sea faces major crises caused by human activities such as habitat degradation and natural resource over-exploitation. Science and art can contribute to effective solutions to these major environmental problems by providing an understanding of natural phenomena and insights into how nature is perceived and valued by humans. We will examine how both visual artists and marine scientists use close observation to study The Sea and produce images to communicate the results of their work. We will also study how scientific findings can provide a foundation for expressive art and how art can effectively convey the implications of scientific findings to how humans relate with nature.Activities will develop concepts and skills of marine science and visual art and examine how each discipline informs the other. Lectures will teach concepts in marine science and aesthetics and develop a basic scientific and visual arts vocabulary. Labs and field trips to local Puget Sound beaches, the San Juan Islands and Olympic Peninsula will provide opportunities to experience The Sea and to apply the concepts/skills learned in class. Weekly workshops on drawing and watercolor painting will provide technical skills for keeping illustrated field journals and strategies for developing observations into polished expressive thematic drawings. Seminars will explore how scientific and artistic activities contribute to solving environmental issues. For example, we will study how the understanding of human relationships with The Sea can be combined with knowledge of the science underlying marine phenomena to promote effective political change (artists and scientists as activists). Other themes that explore the interaction of science and art will include the Sea as: a source of food, a metaphor for human experience, a place of work or medium of transportation, and a subject of inquiry. Most assignments will integrate science and art.In winter quarter, we will focus on marine habitats including estuaries such as the Nisqually River estuary, the inter-tidal zone and the deep sea. Spring quarter will focus on the diversity and adaptations of marine life. Both quarters will include week-long overnight field trips. This program will include an outreach component where students will contribute to environmental education by developing and presenting science and art curriculum to local schoolchildren.	visual arts, education, marine science, biology and ecology.	Gerardo Chin-Leo Lucia Harrison		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Winter	Winter Spring
Earth and Life Clarissa Dirks and Abir Biswas biology chemistry geology	Program	FR–SOFreshmen - Sophomore	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		Geologic changes throughout Earth's history have strongly influenced the evolution and development of all life on earth. This year-long interdisciplinary program in biology and geology will examine the development of our planet and the cycles and transformations of matter and energy in living and nonliving systems. Students will gain an understanding of biological and physical Earth processes on a variety of scales. We will study basic concepts in earth science such as geologic time, plate tectonics, earth materials, nutrient cycling, and climate change. Living systems will be studied on the molecular, cellular, organismal and ecosystem levels, emphasizing the strong connections between biological and geological processes.Fall quarter will introduce students to fundamental principles in geology and biology by studying early Earth history and evolution. In winter quarter, we will investigate systems that highlight how earth processes support life. In spring quarter, students will use this background to engage in projects. Field trips will be an integral part of this program, allowing students to experience the natural world using skills they learned. Each quarter, program activities will include: lectures, small group problem-solving workshops, laboratories, field trips and seminars. There will be opportunities for small groups of students to conduct hands-on scientific investigations, particularly in the field. Students will learn to describe their work through scientific writing and presentations.This program is designed for students who want to take their first year of college science using an interdisciplinary framework. It will be a rigorous program, requiring a serious commitment of time and effort. Overall, we expect students to end the program in the spring with a solid working knowledge of scientific and mathematical concepts, and with the ability to reason critically and solve problems. Students will also gain a strong appreciation of the interconnectedness of biological and physical systems, and an ability to apply this knowledge to complex problems.Boating down the Colorado River though the Grand Canyon while conducting field work is a great way to learn about geological and ecological processes. All students in the program will participate in field work though only a select few (approximately 14 students) will be able to participate in the Grand Canyon river trip. For the river trip, students will be selected through an application and interview process. The expense of this trip is often prohibitive ($1,700 plus airfare to and from Las Vegas); however, alternative less expensive options for independent projects will be available so that all students gain hands-on research experience in the field.		Clarissa Dirks Abir Biswas		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Ecology of Grazing and Grasslands in the Pacific Northwest Michael Paros agriculture biology ecology	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	16	16	Day			S 13Spring		This academically rigorous field-based course will provide students with the fundamental tools to manage livestock and grasslands by exploring the ecological relationships between ruminants and the land. We will begin the quarter learning about the physiology of grasses and their response to grazing and fire. Practical forage identification, morphology and production will be taught. Ruminant nutrition, foraging behavior, and digestive physiology will be covered as a precursor to learning about the practical aspects of establishing, assessing and managing livestock rotational grazing operations. We will divide our time equally between intensive grazing and extensive rangeland systems. Classroom lectures, workshops and guest speakers will be paired with weekly field trips to dairy, beef, sheep and goat grazing farms. There will be an overnight trip to Eastern Washington where students can practice their skills in rangeland monitoring. Other special topics that will be covered in the program include: co-evolutionary relationships between ruminants and grasses, targeted and multi-species grazing, prairie ecology and restoration, controversies in public land grazing, and perennial grain development.	animal agriculture, ecology, conservation, rangeland management, animal physiology and behavior.	Michael Paros		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
El Salvador Sustainability Field Studies Paul Pickett biology environmental studies field studies international studies study abroad sustainability studies	Course	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	2	02	Day, Evening and Weekend				Su 13Summer Session I	Participate in a week of sustainability field studies in Central America. Students will be working to support local efforts to improve the living conditions of both the people and wildlife of Jiquilisco Bay, an important mangrove ecosystem on the Pacific coast of El Salvador. Students will help researchers catch turtles in the bay to study and participate in a beach walk looking for nesting turtles. We will also take boat rides on the bay looking for wildlife, visit local towns, and immerse ourselves in the culture, and visit community development projects.		Paul Pickett	Mon Tue Wed Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun	Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Environmental Analysis Andrew Brabban, Clyde Barlow and Kenneth Tabbutt biology chemistry ecology environmental studies field studies geology hydrology Signature Required: Winter Spring	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." For scientists, beauty may be at the scale of the landscape, the organism, or the atomic level. In order to describe a system, scientists are required to collect quantitative data. This is a rigorous program that will focus on investigations in geology and biology supported with analytical chemistry. Instrumental techniques and chemical analysis skills will be developed in an advanced laboratory. The expectation is that students will learn how to conduct accurate chemical, ecological and hydrogeological measurements in order to define baseline assessments of natural ecosystems and determine environmental function and/or contamination. Quantitative analysis, quality control procedures, research design and technical writing will be emphasized.During fall and winter quarters, topics in physical geology, geochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, freshwater ecology, genetics, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, GIS, and instrumental methods of chemical analysis will be addressed. Students will participate in group projects studying aqueous chemistry, hydrology, and the roles of biological organisms in the nutrient cycling processes of local watersheds. Analytical procedures based on EPA, USGS and other guidelines will be utilized to measure major and trace anion and cation concentrations. Molecular methods and biochemical assays will complement more classical procedures in determining biodiversity and the role of specific organisms within an ecosystem. Computers and statistical methods will be used extensively for data analysis and simulation and GIS will be used as a tool to assess spatial data. The program will start with a two-week field trip to Yellowstone National Park that will introduce students to regional geology of the Columbia River Plateau, Snake River, Rocky Mountains and the Yellowstone Hotspot. Issues of water quality, hydrothermal systems, extremophilic organisms and ecosystem diversity will also be studied during the trip.Spring quarter will be devoted to extensive project work continuing from fall and winter. There will be a 5-day field trip to eastern Washington. Presentation of project results in both oral and written form will conclude the year.	geology, hydrology, chemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, ecology, chemical instrumentation, environmental analysis and environmental fieldwork.	Andrew Brabban Clyde Barlow Kenneth Tabbutt		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Evolution of Human Language Rachel Hastings and Bret Weinstein biology cultural studies linguistics	Program	FR ONLYFreshmen Only	16	16	Day			S 13Spring		Human language is amongst the most complex phenomena ever to arise through Darwinian selection. The human body and brain have been heavily modified at a genetic level to allow language acquisition, processing and speech, yet the evidence is overwhelming that languages evolve and are passed on through a process that is entirely cultural. This has allowed individual languages to change rapidly as populations have spread, diverged and fused over space and time.The evolution of human language has made our species unique. Once we as individuals acquire language in childhood, massive stores of cultural content can be efficiently transmitted into our developing brains—information that ranges from the factual to the emotional, from the narrative to the instructive. We download our human programming from the living members of our tribes.Controversies abound about the origins of this language capacity in humans, the relationship between human language and the communication systems of other animals, and the relationship between language and culture. In this program we will study a variety of possible responses to these and other issues relating to the evolution of language. A major focus of our work will be to develop and use critical and analytical thinking in order to propose our own hypotheses in response to linguistic and biological data.Our study will encompass the two principal meanings of "language evolution": the evolutionary origins of language in humans, and the cultural change in language(s) over time leading to families of languages which are descended from common ancestor languages. These two lines of inquiry will require us to study evolutionary processes more generally. We will discuss ways in which genetic evolution and cultural evolution interact and we will consider theories of linguistic change. We will focus on the multiple evolutionary emergence points of written language, and investigate the cultural diffusion of this trait between populations.We will read, have lecture, and have detailed seminar and workshop discussions. Students will be expected to generate and defend hypotheses and predictions in a supportive and rigorous environment. We will spend time looking at nature and listening to spoken language to obtain primary data. The program work and assignments will be geared towards generating deep predictive insight. It is best suited to self-motivated students with a deep commitment to comprehending that which is knowable, but unknown.		Rachel Hastings Bret Weinstein		Freshmen FR	Spring	Spring
Field Ecology: Forests Dylan Fischer and Alison Styring biology botany ecology field studies writing zoology Signature Required: Spring	Program	JR–SRJunior - Senior	16	16	Day			S 13Spring		This program will focus on intensive group and individual field research on current topics in ecological science. These topics will include forest structure, ecosystem ecology, effects of forest management, ecological restoration, riparian ecology, fire history, bird abundance and monitoring, insect-plant interactions, and disturbance ecology. Students will be expected to intensively use the primary literature and student-driven field research to address observations about ecological composition, structure and function. Multiple independent and group research projects will form the core of our work in local forests of the south Puget lowlands, national forests, national parks, state forests and other relevant natural settings. Students are expected to "hit the ground running" and should develop research projects for the entire quarter within the first several weeks of the program.Through a series of short, intensive field exercises, students will hone their skills in observation, developing testable hypotheses, and designing ways to test those hypotheses. We will also explore field techniques and approaches in ecology, and especially approaches related to measuring plant and avian biodiversity. Students will have the option to participate in field trips to sites in the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest (U.S.). Research projects will be formally presented by groups and individuals at the end of the quarter. Finally, student research manuscripts will be created throughout the quarter utilizing a series of intensive multi-day paper-writing workshops. We will emphasize identification of original field research problems in forest habitats, experimentation, data analyses, oral presentation of findings, and writing in scientific journal format.		Dylan Fischer Alison Styring		Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
Food, Health and Sustainability Donald Morisato and Martha Rosemeyer agriculture biochemistry biology botany ecology health sustainability studies Signature Required: Winter Spring	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		What should we eat? What is the link between diet and health? How do we define "organic" and "local" food? How are our agricultural practices linked to issues of sustainability?This program will take a primarily scientific approach to food and cooking. The topics will span a broad range of scale, from ecological agriculture to molecular structure, including sustainable production, the coevolution of humans and food, the connection between food and medicine, as well as the transformation of food through the processes of cooking and fermentation. Throughout history, food and cooking have not only been essential for human sustenance, but have played a central role in the economic and cultural life of civilizations. This interdisciplinary exploration of food will take a broad ecological systems approach as it examines the biology and chemistry of food, while also incorporating political, historical and anthropological perspectives.Students will directly apply major concepts learned in lectures to experiments in the laboratory and kitchen. Field trips will provide opportunities for observing food production and processing in the local community. Program themes will be reinforced in problem-solving workshop sessions and seminar discussions focused on topics addressed by such authors as Michael Pollan, Harold McGee, Gary Paul Nabhan, Sidney Mintz and Sandor Katz.In fall quarter, we will introduce the concept of food systems, and analyze conventional and sustainable agricultural practices. We will examine the botany of vegetables, fruits, seed grains and legumes that constitute most of the global food supply. In parallel, we will study the genetic principles of plant and animal breeding, and the role of evolution in the selection of plant and animal species used as food by different human populations. We will consider concepts in molecular biology that will allow us to understand and assess genetically modified crops.In winter quarter, we shift our attention to cooking and nutrition. We will explore the biochemistry of food, beginning with basic chemical concepts, before moving on to the structure of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. We will study meat, milk, eggs, vegetables and cereal doughs, and examine what happens at a biochemical level during the process of cooking and baking. We will explore how our bodies digest and recover nutrients, and consider the physiological roles of vitamins and antioxidants, as well as the complex relationship between diet, disease and genetics. Finally, we will study the physiology of taste and smell, critical for the appreciation of food.In spring quarter, we will examine the relationship between food and microbes, from several different perspectives. We will produce specific fermented foods, while studying the underlying biochemical reactions. We will also consider topics in microbiology as they relate to food safety and food preservation, and focus on specific interactions between particular microbes and the human immune system.		Donald Morisato Martha Rosemeyer		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
The Fungal Kingdom Noelle Machnicki and Lalita Calabria biology ecology field studies natural history	Program	JR–SRJunior - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter			Fungi. What are they? Where are they and what roles do they play in terrestrial ecosystems? How do they get their energy? How do they grow? What do they taste like? How do they interact with other organisms? During this two-quarter long program we will answer these and other questions about fungi. Fall quarter will cover the fundamentals of fungal and lichen biology, fungal and lichen diversity, physiology, and systematics. Students will learn to describe and identify fungi and lichens using chemical and microscopic techniques, along with a wide variety of taxonomic keys. Students will participate in a quarter-long project to curate their own collections of herbarium-quality lichen and mushroom specimens. Several multi-day field trips and day trips will provide students with an opportunity for collecting specimens and studying the natural history of western Washington. During winter quarter, we will explore fungi and lichens through the lens of forest ecology. Forest ecosystems rest on a foundation of fungi, and students will learn about the pivotal roles fungi and lichen play as mutualists to plants and animals, as nutrient cyclers, disease-causing agents, and indicators of environmental quality. Lab work will focus on advanced methods and examining taxonomically-challenging groups of lichens and fungi. Students will also learn about museum curation by organizing and accessioning the class lichen and mushroom collection for submission into the Evergreen herbarium. Students will engage in a two-quarter-long group research project relating to fungi. Research topics may include ecology or taxonomy-focused lab and field studies, cultivation or herbarium research. During fall quarter, students will participate in research and writing seminars and quantitative skills workshops to inform their research. Each group will prepare a concise research proposal including a thorough literature review and a pilot study exploring the most appropriate data collection and analysis methods for answering their research questions. During winter quarter, students will conduct research experiments in the field and/or lab, analyze their data and write a research paper outlining their results.		Noelle Machnicki Lalita Calabria	Mon Mon Tue Thu Thu	Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall
General Biology Lalita Calabria biology	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	8	08	Day				Su 13Summer Session II	Living systems will be studied on the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. Topics that will be covered include, but are not limited to, history of the earth, the fossil record, genetic inheritance, cell division, evolution by natural selection, evolutionary forces, population dynamics, biodiversity, biomolecules, cellular and molecular biology, gene regulation, and a general overview of energetics and metabolic processes. The lab component will reinforce concepts and ideas explored in lectures, readings, and workshops. This biology course is excellent preparation for students interested in taking more advanced life science courses or for future work in the areas of environmental science.		Lalita Calabria	Tue Wed Thu	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Human Anatomy and Physiology Cindy Beck biology health	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	6, 12	06 12	Evening				Su 13Summer Full	Students will study the anatomy and physiology of the human body using a systems approach while exploring the interrelationship of health and disease in the human body. Each body system will be covered utilizing a traditional lecture and laboratory format. This course meets prerequisites for nursing and graduate programs in health sciences.	health and medicine	Cindy Beck	Tue Wed Thu	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Individual Study: Integrative Evolution Jennifer Calkins biology ecology environmental studies field studies natural history philosophy of science writing zoology Signature Required: Spring	Contract	JR–SRJunior - Senior	16	16	Day, Evening and Weekend			S 13Spring		This individual study opportunity will facilitate independent student molecular genomic lab and evolutionary ecological field work with animal species. Students may also have the opportunity to integrate creative writing and multimedia work into their studies. With faculty guidance, students will engage in integrative projects investigating the evolution of focal taxa by incorporating methods such as sequencing, bioinformatic analysis, niche analysis and vertebrate field ecology. All participants will also work as a cohesive lab group, meeting regularly to share and trouble-shoot projects and read and discuss research papers. They will also have the opportunity to interact with faculty, students and postdocs from other colleges such as the UW and Occidental College in Los Angeles.		Jennifer Calkins		Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
Individual Study: Environmental Studies Erik Thuesen biology ecology environmental studies marine science zoology Signature Required: Spring	Contract	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day			S 13Spring		This is an opportunity for advanced students to create their own course of study and research in environmental studies. Prior to the beginning of spring quarter, interested individual students or small groups of students must consult with the faculty sponsor about their proposed projects. The faculty sponsor will support students to carry out studies in environmental fieldwork, ecology, zoology and marine science. Students wishing to conduct laboratory-based projects or carry out extensive fieldwork should have the appropriate skills needed to complete the project.		Erik Thuesen		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
Integrative Evolution (...Evolution is for the Birds) Jennifer Calkins biology ecology environmental studies natural history zoology	Program	JR–SRJunior - Senior	16	16	Day		W 13Winter				Ecology, evolutionary biology	Jennifer Calkins	Mon Tue Thu	Junior JR Senior SR	Winter	Winter
Introduction to Natural Science: Navigating Observation and Theory Benjamin Simon, Rachel Hastings and Dharshi Bopegedera biology chemistry mathematics Signature Required: Winter Spring	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		This program is a rigorous introduction to important knowledge and skills students need to continue in the natural sciences and environmental sciences. We will cover key concepts in general chemistry, general biology, and pre-calculus mathematics. Students who have completed pre-calculus will have the option of pursuing work in introductory calculus.The integration of biology, chemistry and mathematics will assist us in asking and answering questions that lie in the intersections of these fields. Such topics include the chemical structure of DNA, the mathematical modeling of biological population growth, and the equations governing chemical equilibria and kinetics. Our laboratory work in biology and chemistry will also allow us to observe phenomena, collect data, and gain first-hand insight into the complex relationship between mathematical models and experimental results.Program activities will include lectures, laboratories, workshops, scientific writing and student presentations. Disciplines will be integrated throughout the year so students can understand the natural world from multiple perspectives.During fall, we will focus on skill building in the laboratory and acquiring the basic tools in chemistry, biology and mathematics. By winter quarter, students will increase their ability to integrate disciplines, moving between established models and experimental data to ask and seek answers to their own questions.The student presentations will require students to actively participate in conversations on current topics in science. Students will engage library research, writing and oral presentations to communicate their knowledge of these topics to others. A spring quarter component will be a library or laboratory research project and presentation of their findings at the college's annual Science Carnival. This opportunity will allow students to use their knowledge of science to teach schoolchildren (in K-12) in order to improve their own understanding of science.This program is designed for students who want a foundation in science using an interdisciplinary framework. It will require a serious commitment of time and effort. Overall, we expect students to end the program in the spring with a solid working knowledge of scientific and mathematical concepts, and with the ability to reason critically and solve problems. Students will also gain a strong appreciation of the interconnectedness of biological, chemical and mathematical systems, and an ability to apply this knowledge to complex problems.Upon completion of the program, students will have completed one year of general chemistry with laboratory, general biology with laboratory and two quarters of mathematics (precalculus and possibly calculus for students who are prepared).		Benjamin Simon Rachel Hastings Dharshi Bopegedera		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Marine Biology of the Pacific Northwest Gerardo Chin-Leo biology marine science	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	8	08	Day				Su 13Summer Session I	This program introduces principles of marine biology focusing on the marine life and marine habitats of the Pacific Northwest coast. We will study the environment, taxonomy, adaptations, and ecology of marine organisms as well as the major oceanographic features of the northwest coast. There will be various field trips including a camping trip to the Olympic Peninsula and possibly a sailboat trip.		Gerardo Chin-Leo	Tue Wed Thu	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Molecules, Genes and Health Carolyn Prouty and James Neitzel biochemistry biology chemistry health	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day			S 13Spring		This program will explore the molecular events that determine the biological activity and toxicity of selected xenobiotic molecules--chemicals not normally produced by the body. These molecules include natural products, drugs and chemicals released in the environment by human activity. We will focus on specific molecules, which might include drugs like ethanyl estrodiol (birth control pill), natural carcinogens like aflatoxin, and other toxicants like BPA (bisphenol A). For each molecule, we will examine in detail the molecular mechanisms by which they act on cellular or physiological processes. How do chemicals treat a disease or cause cancer? Are all people (or species) equally sensitive to these therapeutic and/or toxic effects? How are chemicals metabolized and what molecular targets does a xenobiotic molecule alter? How are genes affected by chemicals and how do the genes affect the way the chemicals act or their fate in the body? Can we use molecular structures to predict which molecules may bioaccumulate and cause cancer, while other molecules can be easily detoxified and excreted?To help understand the actions of these molecules, this program will examine biochemical pathways used in the transformations of these molecules. We will examine cellular signal pathways in detail, as the biological actions of these molecules are often due to perturbations of these normal signal processes. We will also use tools from modern genetics and bioinformatics to examine how genetic differences can influence the effects of these chemicals. This will include current research in epigenetics that proposes mechanisms that explain how prior environmental exposures can influence an organism's current health.We will emphasize data analysis and interpretation obtained from primary literature reports or agency databases. Quantitative reasoning will be a major component of class examples, workshop and homework assignments. Embedded in these activities are principles of cell biology and biochemistry, organic chemistry, genetics, physiology and epidemiology. Students who take this program and Chemistry of Living Systems in fall and winter will cover all of the major subject areas usually covered in Molecule to Organism.		Carolyn Prouty James Neitzel	Tue Wed Thu	Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
Nutrition Cindy Beck biology health	Course	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	6	06	Evening and Weekend			S 13Spring		Americans daily face conflicting information related to health and nutrition. In this course, students will analyze the many issues consumers face when purchasing food, investigate how diet and lifestyle impact health, and learn about the role of major nutrients and phytonutrients. Different dietary philosophies as well as the political and financial influences of food will be discussed. Students will maintain and learn to analyze personal diet diaries as a tool to understand class material.		Cindy Beck	Tue Thu	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
Plant Biology Lalita Calabria biology botany field studies	Course	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	6	06	Day and Weekend				Su 13Summer Session I	This lab and field-based botany course is designed as an introduction to the evolution and diversity of land plants. In lectures, we will survey the major groups of the Plant Kingdom including bryophytes, seedless vascular plants, gymnosperms, and angiosperms. We will also draw on contemporary scientific journals articles to enrich our understanding of important biological concepts and to apply this understanding to current events. In labs, students will gain hands-on experience studying plants with microscopes as we examine the form and function of plant organs, cells, and tissues. On field trips and campus plant walks, students will learn to recognize and identify some of the common native plants of the Pacific Northwest.		Lalita Calabria	Tue Thu Sat	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Practice of Sustainable Agriculture: Fall David Muehleisen, Melissa Barker and Stephen Bramwell agriculture biology botany ecology field studies sustainability studies Signature Required: Fall	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall				What does it take to start up and run a small-scale agricultural business? Do you know how to grow organic food? Are you interested in contributing to the success of the campus Organic Farm? Join us on the farm for hard work and a wide-ranging examination of these and other questions.In this three-quarter program which begins spring quarter, we will integrate the theoretical and practical aspects of organic small-scale direct market farming in the Pacific Northwest by working on the Evergreen Organic Farm through an entire growing season (spring, summer and fall quarters). All students will work on the farm a minimum of 20 hours per week. The program is rigorous both physically and academically and requires a willingness to work outside in adverse weather on a schedule determined by the needs of crops and animals.Our exploration of critical agricultural topics will occur through a curriculum that is intricately tied to what is happening in the fields as the growing season progresses. The major focus of the program will be developing the knowledge and skills needed to start up and operate a small-scale agricultural operation based on a sound understanding of the underlying science and business principles. At the same time, hands-on farm work will provide the context for developing applied biology, chemistry and math skills.Each quarter, we will cover a variety of seasonally appropriate topics needed to operate a sustainable farm business. In spring, we will focus on soil science and nutrient management, annual and perennial plant propagation, greenhouse management, crop botany, composting, vermiculture and market planning. In summer our focus will be on entomology and pest management, plant pathology, weed biology and management, water management and irrigation system design, animal husbandry, maximizing market and value-added opportunities and regulatory issues. Fall quarter's focus will be on season extension techniques, production and business planning, the use and management of green and animal manures, cover crops, and crop storage techniques and physiology.Additional topics will include record keeping for organic production systems, alternative crop production systems, apiculture, aquaponics, urban agriculture, small-scale grain-raising, mushroom cultivation, and techniques for adding value to farm and garden products. Students will learn how to use and maintain farm equipment, ranging from hand tools to tractors and implements. Students will have the opportunity to develop their personal agricultural interests through research projects. Topics will be explored through on-farm workshops, seminars, lectures, laboratory exercises, farm management groups, guest lectures, field experimentation and field trips to regional agricultural operations. Books typically used in the program include by Gershuny, by Mohler and Johnson (eds.), by Wiswall, by Ekarius, by Altieri, and by Coleman. If you are a student with a disability and would like to request accommodations for this course/program, please contact the instructor or the office of Access Services prior to the start of the quarter. Access Services, Library Bldg. Rm. 2153. Contact Program Coordinator Steve Schmidt, PH: 360.867.6348; TTY 360.867.6834; E-mail: schmidts@evergreen.edu. If you require accessible transportation for field trips, please contact the instructor well in advance of the field trip dates to allow time to arrange this.Students planning to take this program who are receiving financial aid should contact financial aid early in fall quarter 2011 to develop a financial aid plan that includes summer quarter 2012.		David Muehleisen Melissa Barker Stephen Bramwell		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall
Practice of Sustainable Agriculture: Spring David Muehleisen and Stephen Bramwell agriculture biology botany ecology field studies sustainability studies Signature Required: Spring	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day			S 13Spring		Do you want produce food for yourself, your family and other families in your community? What does it take to grow food and feed yourself and others every day throughout the year? This three-quarter program (spring, summer and fall quarters) will investigate how food production systems operate with our primary focus on small-scale organic production. We will concentrate on the scientific knowledge, critical thinking and observation skills, management and business tools, and practical hands on training needed to successfully grow food and fiber in a sustainable way. We will explore the details of sustainable food production systems and evaluate them through the three pillars of sustainability—economic, environmental and social justice.We will be studying and working on the Evergreen Organic Farm through an entire growing season, seed propagation to harvest. The farm includes a small-scale direct market stand and CSA as well as a variety of other demonstration areas. All students will work on the farm every week as part of the practicum. The program is rigorous both physically and academically and requires a willingness to work outside in adverse weather on a schedule determined by the needs of crops and animals raised on the farm.During spring quarter, we will focus on soil science, nutrient management, and crop botany. Additional topics will include introduction to animal husbandry, annual and perennial plant propagation, season extension, and the principles and practice of composting. In summer, the main topics will be disease and pest management, which includes entomology plant pathology, weed biology. In addition, water management, irrigation system design, maximizing market and value-added opportunities and regulatory issues will also be covered. Fall quarter's focus will be on production and business planning, cover crops, and crop storage techniques and physiology. Students will develop and present a detailed farm and business plan, which will integrate all the topics covered in the program into a culminating project to allow students to demonstrate their learning and creativity.Additional topics will include record keeping for organic production systems, alternative crop production systems, and techniques for adding value to farm and garden products. Students will learn about hand tool use and maintenance, farm equipment safety, and types of field operations. Topics will be explored through on-farm workshops, seminars, lectures, laboratory exercises, farm management groups, guest lectures, field experimentation and field trips to regional agricultural operations. Books to be used in the program include by Theriault and Brisebois, by Huelsman, by Smit, 3 ed by Magdoff and van Es, , by Damerow, by Costenbader, by The Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture. If you are a student with a disability and would like to request accommodations, please contact the faculty or the office of Access Services prior to the start of the quarter. Access Services, Library Bldg. Rm. 2153. Contact Program Coordinator Steve Schmidt, PH: 360.867.6348; TTY 360.867.6834; E-mail: . If you require accessible transportation for field trips, please contact the instructor well in advance of the field trip dates to allow time to arrange this. Students planning to take this program who are receiving financial aid should contact financial aid early in fall quarter 2012 to develop a financial aid plan that includes summer quarter 2013.		David Muehleisen Stephen Bramwell		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Spring	Spring
The Practice of Sustainable Agriculture: Summer Stephen Bramwell and David Muehleisen agriculture biology botany ecology environmental studies field studies sustainability studies Signature Required: Summer	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	16	16	Day				Su 13Summer Full	This is a spring, summer, fall program and is open only to students continuing from the spring. For the full program description, see .		Stephen Bramwell David Muehleisen		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Sex and Evolution Karen Hogan biology ecology environmental studies	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	12	12	Evening and Weekend	F 12 Fall				This program is an introduction to some of the central concepts in evolutionary theory. We’ll read works by and about Darwin and some of his contemporaries and learn about the scientific and cultural context of Darwin’s work. Darwin's work provided the foundations for evolutionary biology and ecology by developing the concept that ecological interactions can be best understood by looking at how adaptations of the organism (form, physiology, behavior) interact with its environment (physical conditions, competition, predation, etc.) to influence the organism's evolutionary fitness (reproductive success).We'll study the importance of sex in evolutionary biology. Why is sexual reproduction virtually ubiquitous in biology even though, in sexually reproducing organisms, only half of the individuals (females) produce offspring and the offspring only carry half of the genetic information from each parent? Why do few strictly asexual organisms exist? We will read works on the natural history of reproduction in animals and plants as we study evolutionary theory, genetics, and ecology.Students will be expected to approach the topics with rigor from a scientific perspective. Some upper division credit may be awarded for upper division work by arrangement with the faculty at the beginning of the quarter and ongoing communication with the faculty throughout the quarter.	environmental sciences, ecology, and evolutionary biology.	Karen Hogan	Mon Wed Sat	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall
Summer Ornithology: Birds in the Hand Steven G. Herman biology ecology environmental studies field studies natural history zoology	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	8	08	Day, Evening and Weekend				Su 13Summer Session II	Summer Ornithology is a three week bird-banding course taught entirely in the field. We leave campus on the first day, travel through some of the best birding country in Oregon, then over the next few days find and set up camp in a place where we can net, process, and band a sufficient number of birds to provide all students with appropriate experience. We spend the next two weeks netting, processing, banding, and releasing several hundred birds of about 25 species. We focus on aspects of banding protocol, including net placement, removing birds from nets, identification, sexing, ageing, and record-keeping. We balance the in-hand work with field identification and behavioral observations, and during the last week we tour Steens Mountain and the Malheur area. This course has been taught for over 30 years, and more than 24,000 birds have been banded during that time. Lower or upper-division credit is awarded depending of the level of academic achievement demonstrated. A photo essay on this program is available through and a slide show is available through .		Steven G. Herman	Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun	Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry Paula Schofield, Brian Walter, Richard Weiss, Abir Biswas, Michael Paros, Clyde Barlow, Benjamin Simon, Judith Cushing, Dharshi Bopegedera, Rebecca Sunderman, EJ Zita, Donald Morisato, Clarissa Dirks, James Neitzel, Sheryl Shulman, Neal Nelson and Lydia McKinstry biochemistry biology chemistry computer science geology mathematics physics Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring	Program	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. Research opportunities allow science students to work on specific projects associated with faculty members’ expertise. Students typically begin by working in an apprenticeship model 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, modeling and theoretical analysis, written and oral communication, collaboration and critical thinking. These are valuable skills for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market.Faculty offering undergraduate research opportunities are listed below. Contact them directly if you are interested. (chemistry) works with biophysical applications of spectroscopy to study physiological processes at the organ level, with direct applications to health problems. Students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science can obtain practical experience in applying their backgrounds to biomedical research problems in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment. (geology, earth science) studies nutrient and toxic trace metal cycles in terrestrial and coastal ecosystems. Potential projects could include studies of mineral weathering, wildfires and mercury cycling in ecosystems. Students could pursue these interests at the laboratory-scale or through field-scale biogeochemistry studies taking advantage of the Evergreen Ecological Observation Network (EEON), a long-term ecological study area. Students with backgrounds in a combination of geology, biology or chemistry could gain skills in soil, vegetation and water collection and learn methods of sample preparation and analysis for major and trace elements. (chemistry) would like to engage students in two projects. (1) Quantitative determination of metals in the stalactites formed in aging concrete using ICP-MS. Students who are interested in learning about the ICP-MS technique and using it for quantitative analysis will find this project interesting. (2) Science and education. We will work with local teachers to develop lab activities that enhance the science curriculum in local schools. Students who have an interest in teaching science and who have completed general chemistry with laboratory would be ideal for this project. (computer science, ecology informatics) studies how scientists might better use information technology and visualization in their research, particularly in ecology and environmental studies. She would like to work with students who have a background in computer science or one of the sciences (e.g., ecology, biology, chemistry or physics), and who are motivated to explore how new computing paradigms can be harnessed to improve the individual and collaborative work of scientists. Such technologies include visualizations, plugins, object-oriented systems, new database technologies and "newer" languages that scientists themselves use such as python or R. (biology) aims to better understand the evolutionary principles that underlie the emergence, spread and containment of infectious disease by studying the coevolution of retroviruses and their primate hosts. Studying how host characteristics and ecological changes influence virus transmission in lemurs will enable us to address the complex spatial and temporal factors that impact emerging diseases. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in molecular biology techniques, including tissue culture and the use of viral vectors. (mathematics) is interested in problems in mathematical biology associated with population and evolutionary dynamics. Students working with him will help create computer simulations using agent-based modeling and cellular automata and analyzing non-linear models for the evolution of cooperative behavior in strategic multiplayer evolutionary games. Students should have a strong mathematics or computer science backgroun. (organic chemistry) is interested in organic synthesis research, including asymmetric synthesis methodology, chemical reaction dynamics and small molecule synthesis. One specific study involves the design and synthesis of enzyme inhibitor molecules to be used as effective laboratory tools with which to study the mechanistic steps of programmed cell death (e.g., in cancer cells). Students with a background in organic chemistry and biology will gain experience with the laboratory techniques of organic synthesis as well as the techniques of spectroscopy. (biology) is interested in the developmental biology of the embryo, a model system for analyzing how patterning occurs. Maternally encoded signaling pathways establish the anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral axes. Individual student projects will use a combination of genetic, molecular biological and biochemical approaches to investigate the spatial regulation of this complex process. (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 and 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. (computer science) and (computer science) are interested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. Their areas of interest include simulations of advanced architectures for distributed computing, advanced programming languages and compilers, programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing and hardware modeling languages. (biology, veterinary medicine) is interested in animal health and diseases that affect the animal agriculture industry. Currently funded research includes the development of bacteriophage therapy for dairy cattle uterine infections, calf salmonellosis and mastitis. A number of hands-on laboratory projects are available to students interested in pursuing careers in science. (organic, polymer, materials chemistry) is interested in the interdisciplinary fields of biodegradable plastics and biomedical polymers. Research in the field of biodegradable plastics is becoming increasingly important to replace current petroleum-derived materials and to reduce the environmental impact of plastic wastes. Modification of starch through copolymerization and use of bacterial polyesters show promise in this endeavor. Specific projects within biomedical polymers involve the synthesis of poly (lactic acid) copolymers that have potential for use in tissue engineering. Students with a background in chemistry and biology will gain experience in the synthesis and characterization of these novel polymer materials. Students will present their work at American Chemical Society (ACS) conferences. (computer science) isinterested in working with advanced computer topics and current problems in the application of computing to the sciences. Her areas of interest include simulations of advanced architectures for distributed computing, advanced programming languages and compilers, programming languages for concurrent and parallel computing, and hardware modeling languages. (biology) is interested in immunology, bacterial and viral pathogenesis, vaccine development and gene therapy applications. Recent focus has been on developing novel methods for vaccine delivery and immune enhancement in finfish. Specific projects include using attenuated bacteria to deliver either protein-based or nucleic acid vaccines in vivo and investigating bacterial invasion mechanisms. In collaboration with (faculty emerita) other projects include characterization of bacteriophage targeting the fish pathogen and elucidation of phage and host activities in stationary-phase infected with T4 bacteriophage. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in laboratory research methods, including microbiological techniques, tissue culture and recombinant DNA technology, and may have opportunities to present data at regional and national conferences. (inorganic/materials chemistry, physical chemistry) is interested in the synthesis and property characterization of new bismuth-containing materials. These compounds have been characterized as electronic conductors, attractive activators for luminescent materials, second harmonic generators and oxidation catalysts for several organic compounds. Traditional solid-state synthesis methods will be utilized to prepare new complex bismuth oxides. Once synthesized, powder x-ray diffraction patterns will be obtained and material properties such as conductivity, melting point, biocidal tendency, coherent light production and magnetic behavior will be examined when appropriate. (mathematics) is interested in problems relating to graphs, combinatorial games and especially combinatorial games played on graphs. He would like to work with students who have a strong background in mathematics and/or computer science and who are interested in applying their skills to open-ended problems relating to graphs and/or games. (computer science, mathematics) has several ongoing projects in computer vision, robotics and security. There are some opportunities for students to develop cybersecurity games for teaching network security concepts and skills. In robotics, he is looking for students to develop laboratory exercises for several different mobile robotic platforms, including Scribbler, LEGO NXT and iRobot Create. This would also involve writing tools for image processing and computer vision using sequences of still images, video streams and 2.5-D images from the Kinect. In addition, he is open to working with students who have their own ideas for projects in these and related areas, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence and analysis of processor performance. (physics) studies the Sun and the Earth. What are the mechanisms of global warming? What can we expect in the future? What can we do about it right now? How do solar changes affect Earth over decades (e.g., Solar Max) to millennia? Why does the Sun shine a bit more brightly when it is more magnetically active, even though sunspots are dark? Why does the Sun's magnetic field flip every 11 years? Why is the temperature of the Sun’s outer atmosphere millions of degrees higher than that of its surface? Students can do research related to global warming in Zita's academic programs and in contracts, and have investigated the Sun by analyzing data from solar observatories and using theory and computer modeling. Serious students are encouraged to form research contracts and may thereafter be invited to join our research team. Please go to the catalog view for specific information about each option.		Paula Schofield Brian Walter Richard Weiss Abir Biswas Michael Paros Clyde Barlow Benjamin Simon Judith Cushing Dharshi Bopegedera Rebecca Sunderman EJ Zita Donald Morisato Clarissa Dirks James Neitzel Sheryl Shulman Neal Nelson Lydia McKinstry		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry Lydia McKinstry, Michael Paros, Clarissa Dirks, Lalita Calabria and Benjamin Simon biology botany chemistry natural history Signature Required: Summer	Program	FR–SRFreshmen - Senior	V	V	Day, Evening and Weekend				Su 13Summer Full	Rigorous quantitative and qualitative research is an important component of academic learning in Scientific Inquiry. Research opportunities allow science students to work on specific projects associated with faculty members’ expertise. Students typically begin by working in an apprenticeship model 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, modeling and theoretical analysis, written and oral communication, collaboration and critical thinking. These are valuable skills for students pursuing a graduate degree or entering the job market.Faculty offering undergraduate research opportunities are listed below. Please go to the catalog view for additional information. Contact the faculty directly if you are interested.		Lydia McKinstry Michael Paros Clarissa Dirks Lalita Calabria Benjamin Simon		Freshmen FR Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with B. Simon Benjamin Simon biology Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		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. (biology) is interested in immunology, bacterial and viral pathogenesis, vaccine development, and gene therapy applications. Recent focus has been on developing novel methods for vaccine delivery and immune enhancement in finfish. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in laboratory research methods, including microbiological techniques, tissue culture, and recombinant DNA technology.		Benjamin Simon		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with B. Simon Benjamin Simon biology health Signature Required: Summer	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day				Su 13Summer Full	(biology) is interested in immunology, bacterial and viral pathogenesis, vaccine development and gene therapy applications. Recent focus has been on developing novel methods for vaccine delivery and immune enhancement in finfish. Specific projects include using attenuated bacteria to deliver either protein-based or nucleic acid vaccines in vivo and investigating bacterial invasion mechanisms. In collaboration with (faculty emerita) other projects include characterization of bacteriophage targeting the fish pathogen and elucidation of phage and host activities in stationary-phase infected with T4 bacteriophage. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in laboratory research methods, including microbiological techniques, tissue culture and recombinant DNA technology, and may have opportunities to present data at regional and national conferences.		Benjamin Simon		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with C. Barlow Clyde Barlow biology chemistry physics Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		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. (chemistry) works with biophysical applications of spectroscopy to study physiological processes at the organ level, with direct applications to health problems. Students with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science can obtain practical experience in applying their backgrounds to biomedical research problems in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment.		Clyde Barlow		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with C. Dirks Clarissa Dirks biology Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		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. (biology) aims to better understand the evolutionary principles that underlie the emergence, spread, and containment of infectious disease by studying the co-evolution of retroviruses and their primate hosts. Studying how host characteristics and ecological changes influence virus transmission in lemurs will enable us to address the complex spatial and temporal factors that impact emerging diseases. Students with a background in biology and chemistry will gain experience in molecular biology techniques, including tissue culture and the use of viral vectors.		Clarissa Dirks		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with C. Dirks Clarissa Dirks biology Signature Required: Summer	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day				Su 13Summer Full	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.		Clarissa Dirks		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with D. McAvity David McAvity biology computer science mathematics Signature Required: Winter Spring	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day		W 13Winter	S 13Spring		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. (mathematics) is interested in problems in mathematical biology associated with population and evolutionary dynamics. Students working with him will help create computer simulations using agent-based modeling and cellular automata and analyzing non-linear models for the evolution of cooperative behavior in strategic multiplayer evolutionary games. Students should have a strong mathematics or computer science background	theoretical biology, computer science, mathematics.	David McAvity		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Winter	Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with D. Morisato Donald Morisato biology Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		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. (biology) is interested in the developmental biology of the Drosophila embryo, a model system for analyzing how patterning occurs. Maternally encoded signaling pathways establish the anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral axes. Individual student projects will use a combination of genetic, molecular biological and biochemical approaches to investigate the spatial regulation of this complex process.	biology, health sciences.	Donald Morisato		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with M. Paros Michael Paros biology Signature Required: Fall Winter Spring	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		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. (biology, veterinary medicine) is interested in animal health and diseases that affect the animal agriculture industry. Currently funded research includes the development of bacteriophage therapy for dairy cattle uterine infections, calf salmonellosis, and mastitis. A number of hands-on laboratory projects are available to students interested in pursuing careers in science.	biology and veterinary medicine.	Michael Paros		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall Winter Spring
Undergraduate Research in Scientific Inquiry with M. Paros Michael Paros biology health Signature Required: Summer	Research	SO–SRSophomore - Senior	V	V	Day				Su 13Summer Full	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.		Michael Paros		Sophomore SO Junior JR Senior SR	Summer	Summer
Vertebrate Evolution Heather Heying and Jennifer Calkins biology environmental studies philosophy of science zoology	Program	JR–SRJunior - Senior	16	16	Day	F 12 Fall	W 13Winter	S 13Spring		Evolution provides an explanation for the extraordinary biological diversity on this planet. In this program, we will focus on macroevolutionary processes, specifically speciation and the evidence it leaves behind. In doing so, we will address several philosophical questions, including: How do we make claims of knowledge in an historical science such as evolution? We will investigate questions that may seem simple at first--What is a species?--but turn out to have myriad, conflicting answers. This complexity, and our attempts to discern the pattern in that complexity, will be our focus.We will use the vertebrates as our model with which to study evolution, reviewing the morphological and genomic history and diversity of this clade. Innovations have marked the history of vertebrates, including the origins of cartilage, bone, brains, endothermy, and the amniotic egg, which allowed for the invasion of terrestrial habitats. The transformation of existing structures to take on new functions has been another notable feature of vertebrate evolution: from swim bladder into lungs, hands into wings, and scales into both feathers and hair. This vertebrate diversification involved genomic innovation, particularly that involving the variation in the regulation of gene expression and regular bouts of gene duplication and diversification.Classroom work will include workshops and lectures in which active participation by all students will facilitate an enriching learning community. The labs will involve studying the focal traits of the primary two approaches to studying vertebrate evolution: morphological and molecular.In the wet lab, we will study the comparative anatomy of vertebrate skulls and skeletons, and dissect cats and sharks. We will also sequence genes and portions of the genome of various vertebrates. In the computer lab, we will use analyze our genomic data. We will combine our morphological and molecular investigations using software designed for systematic character analysis and for testing the pattern of selection across traits. Using this software, students will generate and analyze molecular and morphological datasets. There will be two multi-day field trips. Students will present short lectures on topics in genomics, molecular evolution, anatomy or physiology (e.g. circulatory system, musclephysiology). Students will also conduct extensive research on a current unresolved topic in vertebrate evolution, and will present that research in both a paper and a talk.		Heather Heying Jennifer Calkins		Junior JR Senior SR	Fall	Fall

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