Courses Taught
BIOL 1107: Principles of Biology I
Lecture part of a sequence designed for science majors. The course is an introduction
to cell and molecular biology as well as molecular and population genetics. Students
who successfully complete the class should be able to describe the fundamental biology
of the cell, including cellular anatomy and cellular metabolic processes in both plants
and animals. Students will also use molecular genetics to describe the basis for heredity
and how this is expressed in populations as well as how it informs evolutionary principles.
BIOL 1107L - Biological Principles I Laboratory
This lab complements BIOL 1107. Students will learn how to use scientific equipment
to explore the cell and molecular biology in plants and animals as well as the biochemistry
of life. Students will learn about experimental design and how to generate and interpret
scientific data.
BIOL 2261 - Fundamental Microbiology
This course covers basic principles and techniques of microbiology including the various
types of microbes, their morphology, metabolic processes and their relationships to
humans. The laboratory emphasizes fundamental isolation, identification, and culture
techniques. This course is primarily for nursing majors. The course cannot be used
to satisfy the general education science requirement nor can it be applied towards
degrees in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology or Biochemistry.
BIOL 3340 - Microbiology
This course studies prokaryotic and unicellular eukaryotic organisms, emphasizing
morphology, physiology, control, identification, symbiotic relationships, and practical
applications. Immunology is studied as a response of vertebrates to microbial infection.
The laboratory emphasizes basic microbiological methods of culture and identification
of microorganisms. The role of microbes in the environment and in medicine is also
investigated.
BIOL 4475 - Virology
This course explores current concepts associated with the field of virology. The structure
and genetic composition of viruses as well as strategies for replication and expression
of viral genetic material are discussed. Mechanisms of viral pathogenesis are presented.
In addition, current methods for viral diagnostics, prevention of viral infection
and treatment of infected individuals are presented within the context of viruses
of historical significance as well as newly emergent viruses of current medical concern.
Novel infectious agents such as satellites, viroids and prions are also discussed.
BIOL 4490 - Food Microbiology
This course covers various aspects of food microbiology, including the source of microbial
contamination during food production, processing and storage; the factors influencing
microbial growth in foods; the role of microorganisms in food spoilage, foodborne
illness, food fermentation, food preservation, and health benefits; and the methods
used to isolate, enumerate, identify, or control microorganisms in foods. The laboratory
is an integral part of the course, allowing students to apply microbiological concepts
in laboratory exercises.
