NOTICE: If you are planning to major in biology it is important that you consider taking Orgo I (Chem 233) in your sophomore year, especially if you plan to go off campus in the fall of your junior year. For information about online registration, including priority times, please visit the Carleton Registrar’s website.

  • BIOL 101: Human Reproduction and Sexuality

    The myths surrounding human reproduction and sexuality may outweigh our collective knowledge and understanding. This course will review the basic biology of all aspects of reproduction–from genes to behavior–in an attempt to better understand one of the more basic and important processes in nature. Topics will vary widely and will be generated in part by student interest. A sample of topics might include: hormones, PMS, fertilization, pregnancy, arousal, attraction, the evolution of the orgasm, and the biology of sexuality. 6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025 · Matt Rand

  • BIOL 125: Genes, Evolution & Development & Lab

    Emphasizes the role of genetic information in biological systems. Under this theme, we cover subjects from the molecular to the population levels of organization, including genetics, structure/function of DNA, gene expression and regulation, the changing genetic makeup of species as they evolve, and the development of individual organisms from zygotes. The active learning format of this course allows time in class to apply new concepts with faculty present. Students enter Carleton from a wide variety of academic experiences and our introductory courses are designed to provide a level playing field for students regardless of previous science background.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024, Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Annie Bosacker, Amanda Hund, Angel Solis, Stephan Zweifel, Mark McKone, Jennifer Ross-Wolff, Zoe Hansen

  • BIOL 126: Energy Flow in Biological Systems and Lab

    Emphasizes the role of energy flow (acquiring, storing, and using energy) in biological systems. Under this theme, we cover subjects from the molecular to the population levels of organization, including structure/function of proteins and enzymes, transport of molecules within biological systems, and links between organismal physiology and ecosystem function. The active learning format of this course allows time in class to apply new concepts with faculty present. Students enter Carleton from a wide variety of academic experiences and our introductory courses are designed to provide a level playing field for students regardless of previous science background. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): CHEM 123 – Principles of Chemistry I, CHEM 124 – Principles of Chemistry I with Problem Solving or CHEM 128 – Principles of Environmental Chemistry with grade of C- or better or received a score of 4 or better on the Chemistry AP exam or received a score of 5 or better on the Chemistry IB exam.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Matt Rand, Raka Mitra, Andrea Kalis, Zoe Hansen, Rou-Jia Sung, Mike Nishizaki

  • BIOL 210: Global Change Biology

    Environmental problems are caused by a complex mix of physical, biological, social, economic, political, and technological factors. This course explores how these environmental problems affect life on Earth by examining the biological processes underlying natural ecological systems and the effects of global environmental changes such as resources consumption and overharvesting, land-use change, climate warming, pollution, extinction and biodiversity loss, and invasive species. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): One Introductory (100-Level) BIOL, CHEM OR GEOL course with a lab with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025 · Martha Torstenson

  • BIOL 215: Agroecology

    Agriculture comprises the greatest single type of land use on the planet–as such, what happens on farms will have far-reaching effects on all other systems on the biosphere. With world human population growing exponentially, the search for sustainable agricultural systems is more important than ever. This course focuses on the scientific aspects of food production, which will involve the application of the principles of ecosystem and population ecology to agricultural systems. Topics covered will include organic farming, biotechnology, and effects of pesticide use. Several types of local farms will be visited–large, small, organic, conventional. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): One Introductory (100-Level) BIOL, CHEM OR GEOL course with a lab with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 216: Agroecology Lab

    These lab sessions will mainly involve visits to local area farms. The visits will provide an opportunity to examine biological processes on real farms and the environmental effects of different farming methods. This laboratory portion of the class will include a community engagement aspect, where class groups complete projects that provide services to farmers or community organizations. 2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 220: Disease Ecology & Evolution

    Parasites and pathogens play a central role in shaping the natural world, from the physiology and behavior of individuals to the dynamics of populations and the structure of ecosystems. This course will explore the ecological and evolutionary processes that shape host-parasite interactions. Topics include transmission of disease through host populations, the evolution of virulence, coevolution between hosts and parasites, how disease influences communities and food webs, how parasites shape host behavior and life history, and the ecology of newly emerging infectious diseases. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; offered Winter 2025 · Amanda Hund

  • BIOL 221: Disease Ecology and Evolution Laboratory

    Students will learn techniques and field and laboratory approaches to studying host-parasite interactions in wild systems.

     2 credits; offered Winter 2025 · Amanda Hund, John Berini

  • BIOL 224: Landscape Ecology

    In the Anthropocene, there has been dramatic change in the distribution of species and communities across the global landscape. The primary objective of this course is to introduce the theory and practice of landscape ecology. Throughout this course, we will consider the major themes of scale and hierarchy theory, compositional analysis, fragmentation, meta-populations, and landscape metrics, all within the broad context of how landscape patterns influence ecological process. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 225: Landscape Ecology Laboratory

    Laboratory component of Biology 224. 2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 234: Microbiology

    A study of the metabolism, genetics, structure, and function of microorganisms. While presented in the framework of the concepts of cellular and molecular biology, the emphasis will be on the uniqueness and diversity of the microbial world. The course integrates lecture and laboratory, and will fulfill requirements of a microbiology course with lab for veterinary or pharmacy schools. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025 · Zoe Hansen

  • BIOL 235: Microbiology Laboratory

    2 credits; No Exploration; offered Winter 2025 · Zoe Hansen

  • BIOL 238: Entomology

    Insects are one of the most successful groups of organisms on the planet, playing major roles in all terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. In addition, since insects are ubiquitous they affect human endeavors on many fronts, both positively (e.g., crop pollination) and negatively (damage to crops and transmitting disease). This class will focus on the biology of insects, including physiology, behavior, and ecology. Many examples will highlight current environmental issues. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 239: Entomology Laboratory

    Field and laboratory investigation of living insects. Synoptic examination of the major orders of insects, including evolution of different groups, physiology, structure, and identification. Field labs will focus on insect ecology and collection techniques for making a comprehensive insect collection. 2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 240: Genetics

    A study of the transmission of genetic information between generations of organisms, and of the mechanism of expression of information within an individual organism. The main emphasis will be on the physical and chemical basis of heredity; mutational, transmissional and functional analysis of the genetic material, and gene expression. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Angel Solis, Stephan Zweifel

  • BIOL 241: Genetics Laboratory

    2 credits; No Exploration; offered Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Angel Solis, Stephan Zweifel

  • BIOL 242: Vertebrate Morphology

    Over 500 million years of evolution has produced a rich diversity of structure and functional morphology in vertebrates. We will use comparative methods to help us understand the various selective forces and constraints that produced the vertebrate forms living today. Laboratory dissection of a variety of preserved vertebrates will allow us to examine how these fascinating animals monitor and move through their environment, procure, ingest and circulate nutrients, respirate, and reproduce. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 243: Vertebrate Morphology Laboratory

    2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 244: Biostatistics

    An introduction to statistical techniques commonly used in Biology. The course will use examples from primary literature to examine the different ways that biological data are organized and analyzed. Emphasis will be placed on how to choose the appropriate statistical techniques in different circumstances and how to use statistical software to carry out tests. Topics covered include variable types (categorical, parametric, and non-parametric), analysis of variance, generalized linear models, and meta-analysis. There will be an opportunity for students to analyze data from their own research experiences. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND one 200 or 300 level BIOL course with a grade of C- or better.

     3 credits; FSR, Formal or Statistical Reasoning, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025 · Mark McKone

  • BIOL 248: Behavioral Ecology

    Behavioral ecologists strive to understand the complex ways that ecological pressures influence the evolution of behavioral strategies. It can be argued that animals face a relatively small set of basic challenges: they must acquire food, water, and mates, and they must avoid danger. Yet we see a rich diversity of solutions to these problems. Consider foraging behavior, for example. All animals must acquire energy, but some filter particles out of sea water, others graze on nearly inedible grasses, while still others hunt in cooperative packs. In this course we will consider such topics as foraging, communication, sociality, and conflict. By focusing on the functions and evolutionary histories of behaviors, we strive to better understand the puzzle of behavioral diversity. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 262: Ecological Physiology

    This course examines the physiological adaptations that allow species to inhabit a wide range of environments including polar regions, deserts, high alpine, the deep sea, and wave-swept coastal habitats. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how organisms cope with environmental extremes (e.g., temperature, low oxygen, pH, salinity and pressure) and in using metabolic theory to predict the ecological impacts of climate change (e.g., global warming, ocean acidification, hypoxia). Associated laboratory will emphasize experimentation and application of physiological concepts in living organisms. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab; offered Fall 2024 · Mike Nishizaki

  • BIOL 263: Ecological Physiology Lab

    Experimental approaches to study physiological responses of living organisms to their environment. Students will conduct a semi-independent lab project. 2 credits; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024 · Mike Nishizaki

  • BIOL 272: Integrative Animal Physiology

    This course explores biological functions from the biochemical level to the level of the whole organism. We will start with the regulatory systems exploring the function of neural and endocrine mechanisms. We will discuss the actions of a variety of toxins as adaptive components of venoms and pharmaceutical tools in human health research. Other topics include: muscle physiology, exercise and behavior; blood pressure regulation; salt and water balance in organisms from different environments; comparative reproduction, including human reproductive development and sexuality. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Matt Rand

  • BIOL 273: Integrative Animal Physiology Laboratory

    Concurrent registration in Biology 272 required. 2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 280: Cell Biology

    An examination of the structures and processes that underlie the life of cells, both prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Topics to be covered include methodologies used to study cells; organelles, membranes and other cellular components; protein targeting within the cell; and cellular communication and division. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Zoe Hansen

  • BIOL 281: Cell Biology Laboratory

    The focus of the laboratory will be on current techniques used to study cellular structure and function. 2 credits; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024 · Zoe Hansen

  • BIOL 294: Directed Research in Biology

    Students work on a research project related to a faculty member's research interests, and directed by that faculty member. Student activities vary according to the field and stage of the project. The long-run goal of these projects normally includes dissemination to a scholarly community beyond Carleton. The faculty member will meet regularly with the student and actively direct the work of the student, who will submit an end-of-term product, typically a paper or presentation.

     1 – 6 credit; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 310: Immunology

    This course will examine the role of the immune system in defense, allergic reactions, and autoimmunity. Topics to be covered include the structure and function of antibodies, cytokines, the role of the major histocompatibility complex in antigen presentation, cellular immunity, immunodeficiencies, and current techniques used to study immune responses. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND either BIOL 240 – Genetics or BIOL 280 – Cell Biology with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025 · Debby Walser-Kuntz

  • BIOL 311: Immunology Laboratory

    In this laboratory course, students will explore experimental design, immunology-related techniques, and the communication of scientific findings. 2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 321: Ecosystem Ecology

    Ecosystem ecology involves the study of energy and material flow through systems, including both the biotic (animals, plants, microbes) and abiotic (soil, water, atmosphere) components. Topics include the major elemental cycles (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus), patterns of energy flow, and the controls of these fluxes for different ecosystems. Current environmental issues are emphasized as case studies, including climate change, land use change, human alterations of nutrient cycles, and biodiversity effects on ecosystems. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 126 – Energy Flow in Biological Systems and Lab AND one 200 level Biology, Environmental Studies or Geology course with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 322: Ecosystem Ecology Laboratory

    2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 332: Human Physiology

    Human Physiology seeks to understand the fundamental mechanisms responsible for the diverse functions of the body. Course topics include the function and regulation of the various physiological systems (nervous, circulatory, endocrine, excretory, respiratory, digestive, etc.), biochemistry, cellular physiology, homeostasis and acid-base chemistry. The study of human physiology provides the principal groundwork for internal medicine, pharmacology, and other related health fields. The laboratory includes a variety of experiments focusing on the function and regulation of the human body. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025 · Fernan Jaramillo

  • BIOL 333: Human Physiology Laboratory

    2 credits; No Exploration; offered Winter 2025 · Fernan Jaramillo

  • BIOL 338: Genomics and Bioinformatics

    The advent of next-generation sequencing technology has revolutionized biology, enabling transformative breakthroughs in fields ranging from agriculture to conservation to medicine. In this course, students will gain experience with the computational and bioinformatics tools needed to analyze “big data,” including sequence searching and alignment, assembly, gene calling and annotation. Students will learn to ask and answer their own scientific questions using sequence data, and to critically assess the conclusions of other genomics and bioinformatics studies. No prior computer programming experience is required. Associated laboratory will focus on wet lab methods for DNA/RNA extraction and preparation as well as computational analysis. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND either BIOL 240 – Genetics or BIOL 321 – Ecosystem Ecology or BIOL 350 – Evolution with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; LS, Science with Lab, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Rika Anderson

  • BIOL 339: Genomics & Bioinformatics Lab

    2 credits; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024 · Rika Anderson

  • BIOL 350: Evolution

    Principles and history of evolutionary change in wild populations, with consideration of both microevolutionary and macroevolutionary time scales. Topics covered include causes of change in gene frequency, the nature of adaptation, constraints on evolutionary change, the evolution of genes and proteins, rates of speciation and extinction, and the major events in evolutionary history. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Mark McKone

  • BIOL 352: Population Ecology

    An investigation of the properties of populations and communities. Topics include population growth and regulation, life tables, interspecific and intraspecific competition, predation, parasitism, mutualism, the nature of communities, and biogeography. Expected preparation: previous experience with calculus is necessary, but no specific course is required. Statistics 120 or equivalent exposure to statistical analysis is recommended.

     Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, LS, Science with Lab; offered Spring 2025 · Mark McKone

  • BIOL 353: Population Ecology Laboratory

    2 credits; No Exploration; offered Spring 2025 · Mark McKone

  • BIOL 355: Seminar: The Plant-Animal Interface

    The primary objective of this seminar is to gain a better understanding of “the plant-animal interface,” with a specific focus on the interactions between plants and vertebrate herbivores. Topics covered include 1) the range of influences that the abiotic environment has on plants as a source of energy and nutrition for vertebrates; 2) how animals respond to heterogeneity in the plant communities with a specific focus on plant chemistry (i.e., nutritional indices and defensive chemistry); and 3) how heterogeneity in plant chemistry influences animal demographics and overall biological diversity.  Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND One 200 level BIOL course with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 356: Seminar: Topics in Developmental Biology

    The development of an embryo from a single cell to a complex body requires the coordinated efforts of a growing number of cells and cell types. In this seminar course, we will use primary literature to explore recent advances in our understanding of the cellular processes such as intercellular signaling, migration, proliferation, and differentiation that make development possible. Additionally, we will consider how these developmental cellular processes, when disrupted, lead to cancer and other diseases. Priority will be given to juniors and seniors who have not already taken a seminar course. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 240 – Genetics or BIOL 280 – Cell Biology or BIOL 342 – Animal Developmental Biology with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 358: Seminar: Evolution of Sex and Sexes

    The origin and maintenance of sexual reproduction remains a central enigma in evolutionary biology. This seminar course will explore contemporary primary literature that addresses a variety of evolutionary questions about the nature of sex and the sexes. Why is sexual reproduction usually favored over asexual alternatives? Why are there no more than two sexes? What determines the characteristics of females and males within diverse species? How did sex chromosomes evolve and why do some species lack them? Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 240 – Genetics or BIOL 350 – Evolution with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 363: Seminar: Ecomechanics

    All organisms, from Common loons to Redwood trees to Basking sharks spend much of their lives bumping up against forces associated with the non-biological world. The manner in which ecological challenges are solved (e.g., moving around vs. staying put, finding food, avoiding predators) is often related to an individual’s biomechanical design. This class will challenge students to view their physical surroundings from the perspective of an organism. How do mussels feed in a fast stream vs. stagnant pond? Why do healthy trees uproot rather than break in half? How can a sea urchin with no eyes “see”? We will use primary scientific literature to examine the physical principles that underlie fundamental ecological processes. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND one 200 or 300 level BIOL course with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Winter 2025 · Mike Nishizaki

  • BIOL 365: Seminar: Topics in Neuroscience

    We will focus on recent advances in neuroscience. All areas of neuroscience (cellular/molecular, developmental, systems, cognitive, and disease) will be considered. Classical or foundational papers will be used to provide background. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Joel Tripp

  • BIOL 368: Seminar: Developmental Neurobiology

    An examination of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying development of the nervous system. We will survey recent studies of a variety of model organisms to explore key steps in neuronal development including neural induction, patterning, specification of neuronal identity, axonal guidance, synapse formation, cell death and regeneration. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND either BIOL 240 – Genetics or BIOL 280 – Cell Biology with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 370: Seminar: Selected Topics in Virology

    An examination of selected animal viruses. The course will focus on the most recent developments in HIV-related research, including implications for HIV-treatment and vaccines and the impact of viral infection on the immune system of the host. In addition to studying the structure and replication of particular viruses we will also discuss the current laboratory techniques used in viral research.  Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 240 – Genetics, or BIOL 280 – Cell Biology with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Spring 2025 · Debby Walser-Kuntz

  • BIOL 372: Seminar: Structural Biology

    The ability to visualize macromolecules at atomic detail has significantly advanced our understanding of macromolecular structure and function. This course will provide an overview of fundamental experimental methodologies underlying structure determination, followed by primary literature-based discussions in which students will present and critically discuss classic foundational papers as well as examples from the current literature that have advanced our understanding of macromolecule structure and function. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND either BIOL 280 – Cell Biology or BIOL 380 – Biochemistry or BIOC 301 – Survey of Biochemistry or CHEM 320 – Biological Chemistry with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 374: Seminar: Grassland Ecology

    Grassland ecosystems cover one third of the Earth’s surface and occur on every continent except Antarctica. Grasslands provide habitat for millions of species, play a major role in global carbon and nutrient cycles, and are the primary source of agricultural land, making them an important ecosystem both ecologically and economically. This course will utilize scientific literature to explore the environmental and biological characteristics of the world’s grasslands from population dynamics to ecosystem processes. Topics include competition and succession, plant-animal interactions, carbon and nutrient cycling, the role of disturbances such as fire and land use change, and grassland management and restoration. Prerequisites:

    Student must completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND either BIOL 210 – Global Change Biology or BIOL 238 – Entomology or BIOL 248 – Behavioral Ecology or BIOL 321 – Ecosystem Ecology or BIOL 352 – Population Ecology with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning, WR2 Writing Requirement 2; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 378: Seminar: The Origin and Early Evolution of Life

    The Earth formed four and a half billion years ago. Evidence suggests that within 700 million years, life had gained a foothold on this planet. We will delve into the primary literature to explore fundamental questions about the origin and evolution of life: How did life arise from non-life on the dynamic young Earth? Where on Earth did life begin? Did life only arise once? What did the first living organisms look like? What was the nature of our last universal common ancestor? How did life alter the planet on which it arose? Could life originate elsewhere in the cosmos? Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND one 200 or 300 level BIOL course with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Spring 2025 · Rika Anderson

  • BIOL 379: Seminar: Behavioral Genetics

    Recent advances in molecular biology have allowed researchers to test specific hypotheses concerning the genetic control of behavior. This course will examine information derived from various animal model systems, including humans, using a variety of techniques such as classical genetics, genome databases, transgenics, and behavioral neurobiology. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 240 – Genetics with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 383: Seminar: Illicit Pharmacology: The Biochemistry and Molecular Mechanisms of Recreational Drugs

    This seminar will explore the molecular mechanisms, cellular signaling, and metabolism of recreational drugs. With a focus on recent scientific literature, we will unravel the mechanisms of action of these substances (to the extent that they are known) and will use this knowledge to better understand their physiological effects. While our main emphasis will be on scientific advances, we will also investigate cultural and social justice issues related to drug use and drug enforcement. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed all of the following course(s): CHEM 233 – Organic Chemistry I & Lab and CHEM 234 – Organic Chemistry II & Lab with grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 385: Seminar: Microbial Pathology

    Microbes are the most abundant organisms on earth, and microbial pathogens have caused human and plant disease epidemics worldwide. This course will focus upon the pathogenic strategy of a variety of well-studied microbes in order to illustrate our understanding of the molecular and cellular nature of microbial disease. We will analyze current and seminal papers in the primary literature focusing on mechanisms employed by microbes to attack hosts. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND either BIOL 240 – Genetics or BIOL 280 – Cell Biology with a grade of C- or better.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; offered Fall 2024 · Raka Mitra

  • BIOL 386: Neurobiology

    An analysis of the biology of neurons and the nervous system. Topics include the molecular basis of electrical excitability in neurons, synaptic transmission and plasticity, motor control, mechanisms of sensation, and construction and modification of neural circuits. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     6 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 387: Neurobiology Laboratory

    2 credits; No Exploration; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 394: Directed Research in Biology

    Students work on a research project related to a faculty member's research interests, and directed by that faculty member. Student activities vary according to the field and stage of the project. The long-run goal of these projects normally includes dissemination to a scholarly community beyond Carleton. The faculty member will meet regularly with the student and actively direct the work of the student, who will submit an end-of-term product, typically a paper or presentation.

     1 – 6 credit; S/CR/NC; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024 · Mark McKone, Mike Nishizaki, Rika Anderson, Matt Rand, Daniel Hernández, Amanda Hund, Raka Mitra, Stephan Zweifel, John Berini, Jennifer Ross-Wolff

  • BIOL 395: Research Experience Seminar in Biology

    This seminar course is intended for students who have completed a summer research project or internship in the biological sciences. The intent of the course is to provide students with the opportunity to discuss their research experience, learn from the experiences of other members of the class, read relevant primary literature, and prepare a poster for a student research symposium. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed the following courses: BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better or equivalents.

     3 credits; No Exploration, QRE, Quantitative Reasoning; not offered 2024–2025

  • BIOL 399: Critical Reading and Analysis of Primary Literature

    Guided instruction in reading and interpretation of contemporary primary literature in Biology. Prerequisites:

    Student has completed any of the following course(s): BIOL 125 – Genes, Evolution, and Development & Lab with a grade of C- or better or received a score of 5 or better on the Biology AP exam or received a score of 6 or better on the Biology IB exam AND BIOL 126 – Energy Glow in Biological Systems & Lab with a grade of C- or better AND three (3) 200 or 300 level BIOL courses or BIOC 301 – Survey of Biochemistry and two (2) 200 or 300 level BIOL courses with grade of C- or better.

     3 credits; S/CR/NC; No Exploration; offered Fall 2024, Winter 2025 · Raka Mitra, Mark McKone, Amanda Hund, Matt Rand, Mike Nishizaki, Rika Anderson, Debby Walser-Kuntz

  • BIOL 400: Integrative Exercise

    Preparation and submission of the written portion of the Integrative Exercise. Continuing course (fall or winter). Oral examination, evaluation of the Integrative Exercise, and participation in visiting speakers seminars (spring). Prerequisites:

    Student is a Biology major and has Senior Priority.

     1 – 2 credit; S/NC; offered Fall 2024, Winter 2025, Spring 2025 · Raka Mitra