This program develops and interrelates concepts in experimental (laboratory) biology, organic chemistry, and biochemistry, thus providing a foundation for students who plan to continue studies in chemistry, laboratory biology, field biology, and medicine. Students will carry out upper-division work in organic chemistry, biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology, and genetics in a yearlong sequence. The program integrates two themes, one at the cell level and the other at the molecule level. In the cell theme, we start with the cell and microbiology and proceed to the whole organism with the examination of structure/function relationships at all levels. In the molecular theme, we will examine organic chemistry, the nature of organic compounds and reactions, and carry this theme into biochemistry and the fundamental chemical reactions of living systems. As the year progresses, the two themes continually merge through studies of cellular and molecular processes in biological systems.

Each aspect of the program will contain a significant laboratory component. On a weekly basis, students will write papers and maintain laboratory notebooks. All laboratory work and approximately half of the non-lecture time will be spent working in collaborative problem-solving groups. Spring quarter student-designed research projects are a culmination of all major concepts learned throughout the year.

This is an intensive program. The subjects are complex, and the sophisticated understanding we expect to develop will require devoted attention and many hours of scheduled lab work each week.