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Biology
Associate Professor
Braker, Chair
Professors
Hafner, Martin, Pollock;
Associate Professor
North; Assistant
Professors Baran,
Pondella, Schulz,
Thompson
On Special
Appointment: Adjunct
Assistant Professors
Goffredi, Schindelman;
Adjunct Instructors
Tydell, Zutta
Biology
is a rapidly expanding,
multifaceted discipline,
full of possibilities
for undergraduate
research and for
stimulating graduate
study and employment
after Occidental. Within
an evolutionary
framework, our program
investigates the
interactions between
molecules, cells,
organisms, populations,
and ecosystems that
constitute life on
earth. Interdisciplinary
and integrative by
nature, the biology
program at Occidental
engages both majors and
non-majors in a
curriculum that
emphasizes laboratory
and field
investigations. Our
students are encouraged
to collaborate with
faculty mentors, whose
research employs current
methods in addressing
questions from the
molecular to the global
in scale. Students
acquire skills from
careful observation
through hypothesis
formulation and
experimental design to
formal oral and written
presentations of
results. After
participating in the
biology program at
Occidental, students are
prepared for rewarding
work and life-long
learning, armed with the
tools necessary to
understand and help
explain the complexity
of living systems. After
completing the major,
many students elect to
take graduate training
toward the Ph.D. in
biology or doctorates of
medicine or dentistry.
Others enter into
careers such as
biomedical research,
teaching, law, or
government service.
The
Department of Biology is
housed within the
Bioscience building
which is contiguous with
the Moore Laboratory of
Zoology. Facilities
include the bird and
mammal collections
(70,000 specimens) of
Moore Laboratory,
greenhouses, facilities
for transmission
electron microscopy and
fluorescence microscopy,
a tisue culture suits
and
fluorescence-activated
cell sorter,
fully-equipped molecular
biology laboratories,
field vehicles, and
three research vessels
for nearshore marine
studies and SCUBA
diving. Because of its
proximity to the Mojave
Desert, the Santa
Monica, San Gabriel, and
San Bernardino
Mountains, and seacoast,
Occidental College is
ideally suited for field
and laboratory studies
of environmental
biology.
MAJOR:
The major consists of
nine Biology courses (36
units) plus Senior
Comprehensive Seminar
(Biology
490, 2 units), and
five supporting courses
(20 units). Required
Biology classes are Bio
105 or Bio
115, Bio
130, Bio
490, and seven
additional 200- and 300-
level Biology classes
that satisfy the breadth
and depth requirements
defined below.
Two
semesters of
introductory biology are
required. In these
courses, students are
exposed to basic
biological principles
and the diversity of
life.
The
introductory courses may
be taken in any order,
but at least one should
be taken during the
first year. One course
must be in organismal
biology, stressing
diversity and the
relationship between
structure and function
(Bio 105
or 115).
The second course must
be in cellular and
molecular biology (Bio
130) and provide a
broad introduction to
the biochemistry,
physiology, and
molecular biology of
prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells.
100-level Biology
courses are not open to
senior Biology majors.
To meet
the requirement for
breadth within Biology,
majors will take four
classes, one from each
of four biology subject
areas: Cellular and
Molecular Biology (Bio
221 or
224), Environmental
Biology (Bio
106,
260, or
270), Evolutionary
Biology (Bio
279), and Organismal
Biology (Bio
240 or
250). An appropriate
300-level class may
substitute for one of
the required 200- level
classes with approval of
Biology chair. In
300-level courses,
students engage deeply
with a particular
specialized subject.
Three 300-level courses
(at least two of which
must be laboratory
courses) are required.
One
seminar course (Biology
490) is required to
fulfill senior
comprehensive
requirements.
Five
supporting classes are
required for the major:
Two semesters of
chemistry (Chemistry
120 or
130, and
220);
Calculus I and one
other course with a
strong quantitative
component (this
requirement can be
filled by
Calculus, Math
146 or
150; Bio
260 or Bio
368; Physics
110,
115,
120 or
125; Psychology
201; or another
course with approval of
Biology Chair); and one
other course within the
sciences at the 200 or
300 level.
A course
used to fulfill one
requirement cannot
fulfill another major
requirement.
Students
intending to apply to
health professional
programs or graduate
programs in Biology
should include four
semesters of Chemistry,
two semesters of
Physics, and two
semesters of Calculus in
their course plan.
Pre-professional
students are strongly
encouraged to consult
with the Health
Professions Office early
in their career.
Students planning to
apply to graduate
programs in Biology are
also advised to include
research (Biology
395) in their
program of study, and
may wish to select an
emphasis (see below).
Students
intending to obtain a
teaching certification
in biology should
contact the Education
Department as early as
possible for advice on
course selection.
Additional advice
concerning courses and
career planning may be
obtained from the major
advisor.
The
Biology Department
encourages international
study for Biology
majors. Among the
semester options
available are programs
in Tropical Biology in
Costa Rica, Global
Medicine and Public
Health in Costa Rica,
and direct enrollment at
James Cook University in
Australia (with
strengths in Marine
Biology and Tropical
Biology). Students may
receive credit towards
the Biology major and to
meet Core distribution
requirements. See IPO
and Professor Braker for
more information.
EMPHASIS WITHIN THE
MAJOR: Students may
construct an individual
program to meet the
Biology major
requirements, or they
may choose an emphasis
in Cell and Molecular
Biology, Environmental
Biology, or Marine
Biology.
Cell and Molecular
Biology Emphasis:
This emphasis is
designed for
students who are
interested in
pursuing a career in
the health
professions or
graduate school in
cellular or
molecular
biosciences. Cell
and Molecular
Biology encompasses
a wide range of
studies, including:
gene expression and
regulation,
transmission of
genes between
generations,
cell-to-cell
communication, cell
physiology, the
biochemistry of DNA
and RNA, the
development of a
fertilized egg into
a multi-cellular
organism, the
biology of microbes,
the cellular and
molecular mechanisms
that drive the
specialized
functions of the
immune system, the
nervous system and
other organs and
tissues. All
requirements for the
Biology major apply,
with the addition
that students must
take both Bio
221 and Bio
224 as part of
their program of
study. At least two
of the required
three courses at the
300 level must be
chosen from the
following list: Bio
320,
322,
323,
325,
326,
330,
333 and
340. Students
are strongly
encouraged to
participate in
research with
faculty (Biology
395). Courses in
organic chemistry
and physics are
strongly recommended
for students
planning to attend
graduate and
professional
schools.
Environmental
Biology Emphasis:
This emphasis is
designed for those
who desire a course
of study leading to
an enhanced level of
understanding in
basic and applied
aspects of ecology
and evolution.
Course work required
for this emphasis
provides the basic
theoretical and
empirical background
for understanding
the origin and
maintenance of
biological
diversity, the
interactions among
organisms, and the
functioning of
ecosystems, as well
as practical
approaches to the
conservation and
management of
natural resources.
All requirements for
the Biology major
apply. Students are
required to take Bio
224,
270,
279. At least
two of the three
required 300--level
courses for the
biology major should
be chosen from the
following list: Bio
325,
368,
369,
377,
378,
380, or another
course by approval
of the department
chair. At lease one
of the 200 or 300
level classes chosen
for the emphasis
must be a course in
plant biology (250
or
380). All
Environmental
Biology students are
encouraged to
participate in field
and laboratory
research activities
through enrollment
in Biology
395 and/or
310. Students
are encouraged to
take a course in
statistics (e.g. Bio
368, Math
150, Psychology
201) and one or
more Geology courses
(e.g.
105,
215,
245,
345,
365).
International study
is recommended.
Students intending
to select this
emphasis should
consult the
appropriate faculty
for course selection
early in their
sophomore year.
Marine Biology
Emphasis: The
marine emphasis is
designed for biology
majors who are
interested in
pursuing careers or
graduate school in
the marine sciences.
Marine science is
one of the most
integrative fields
in biology with
research topics
ranging from
molecular methods
for the
classification of
marine bacteria to
the effects of
global warming on
fisheries. Students
are required to
satisfy all the
requirements for the
biology major and
must take four of
the following
upper-division
courses: Biology
260,
344,
356,
368,
369, or Geology
245. These
courses may also
satisfy biology
major requirements.
In addition to the
coursework, students
are encouraged to
participate in as
many of the
following activities
as their schedules
allow: 1)
independent or
collaborative
research with
faculty (Bio
395), 2) scuba
diving as part of a
club or research
team, 3)
participation in
programs (academic
year and/or summer)
at marine science
institutions, 4)
participation in
faculty led field
trips, and/or 5)
attendance at
seminars on marine
topics at Oxy and
other nearby
campuses. Students
graduating with a
marine emphasis will
have strong
lab/field research
experience, know the
common local marine
organisms (plankton
to mammals), and be
able to discuss the
pertinent physical
and biological
processes affecting
the southern
California marine
area. Students
interested in
joining this
emphasis should
monitor our web site
at
www.oxy.edu/oxy/marinebio
and contact one of
the marine faculty
to discuss their
course of study.
MINOR:
Six courses (24 units)
are required for the
minor. These include any
three of our
introductory courses
(Biology
105,
106,
107,
115 and
130) and any three
additional courses at
the 200 or 300 level.
Independent Studies and
Advanced Placement
credit may not count
toward the minor.
WRITING REQUIREMENT:
Students majoring in
Biology will satisfy the
final component of
Occidental Collegeís
college-wide writing
requirement by
successfully completing
two courses at the
300-level (or
appropriate course
work). Students should
familiarize themselves
with the departmental
requirement at the time
of declaring the major.
See the
Writing Program and
consult the department
chair for additional
information.
HONORS: Honors in
Biology may be awarded
at graduation to
qualified students for
completing research in
one of the broad fields
of biology listed under
Graduate Study, and
preparation of a thesis
within the selected
area. See the
Honors Program and
consult the department
chair for details.
Students intending to
apply for Honors should
declare their intent in
writing to their
research advisor and
department chair by
midway through the
junior year.
GRADUATE STUDY:
Graduate study toward
the degree of Master of
Arts under the thesis
plan may be undertaken
in Biology by properly
qualified students.
Thesis projects may be
elected in any of the
following fields:
cellular biology,
developmental biology,
immunology,
microbiology, molecular
biology, neurobiology,
biochemistry,
comparative physiology,
animal behavior,
environmental biology,
ecology, systematics and
evolutionary biology,
and marine biology.
Graduate courses,
numbered 500 and above,
are valued at five units
unless otherwise noted.
Consult the department
chair for further
information on graduate
studies.
S69. HIGH SCHOOL
OCEANOLOGY PROGRAM.
This is
a program for
outstanding high school
students who will begin
their senior year at the
end of the summer. It is
also available to a
limited number of
college students.
Students are introduced
to physical and chemical
oceanography and marine
biology in a
college-level course (4
semester units) by a
combination of lectures,
laboratories, and field
trips on the R/V
Vantuna, a
fully-equipped 85-foot
oceanographic teaching
and research vessel.
Enrollment is limited
and students are
admitted selectively.
This course is offered
in the summer only.
Martin and Staff
100. FRONTIERS IN
BIOLOGY.
This
course exposes students
to new developments in
different areas of
biology. The course will
meet one hour a week,
and will include
seminars by outside
speakers and department
members and discussions
on various current
topics led by department
faculty. This course
provides an opportunity
for students at all
levels to gain an
appreciation for the
diversity of research
done in the field of
biology and to discuss a
variety of related
issues such as ethical
applications of
research.
Prerequisite: concurrent
enrollment in or prior
completion of any 100
level Biology course or
permission of
instructor. Graded on a
Credit/No Credit basis
only.
1
unit
Not given in
2008-2009
102. BIOLOGY ON THE
EDGE.
ìExtremeî is in the eye
of the beholder. From
the deepest depths of
the oceans, to the edges
of our atmosphere, from
the coldest driest
valley on Antarctica to
underwater volcanoes
four times hotter than
boiling water, from
streams like battery
acid to the African soda
lakes used in
mummification, microbes,
plants, and animals call
these environments home.
The study of extremes,
and those organisms that
can inhabit them, has
challenged our concept
of the limits of life.
This class will explore
the various types of
extreme environments,
how has life adapted to
these extremes, and the
possible economic
potential of extreme
biology. This course
does not apply to the
Biology major and is not
available to students
who have had more than
one Biology course.
Goffredi
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
MATH/SCI
103. TOPICS IN
BIOLOGY.
Topics
vary. Not applicable to
the Biology major. Not
open to students who
have previously taken
more than one 100-level
Biology course.
Strange Biology.
Fascinating and extreme
organisms are used to
elucidate basic concepts
of biology. Topics will
include the biochemistry
of life, the cell,
genetics, reproduction,
development, diversity
of organisms, evolution
and environmental
biology. For example,
discussion of the role
of water in the living
cell will focus on
tardigrades (water
bears); a section on
reproduction will
feature the Silver
Salamander, an all
female (not
hermaphroditic) species;
study of digestive
processes will consider
the Tarantula Hawk, a
vegetarian serial
killer.
Tydell
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
MATH/SCI
104. INTRODUCTION TO
THE BIOLOGY OF STEM CELL
THERAPEUTICS.
An
introduction to the
basic research of stem
cells, potential
sources, stem cell
characterization, and
stem cell development
for therapeutic
applications. The
student will also gain
an understanding in
aspects of developmental
biology, and the
progression of
translational research
from basic science to
clinical utility.
Designed for non-science
majors.
Not
given in 2008-2009
105. MARINE BIOLOGY.
This
course will be an
introductory survey of
marine organisms and
their environment. It
will cover fishes,
invertebrates, mammals,
reptiles and algae.
Included will be an
investigation of
behavior, ecology,
adaptations, and
environmental
relationships to humans.
An emphasis will be
placed on forms common
to California.
Includes one 3-hour lab
period per week and
field trips will be
included during the
laboratory period. (Labs
may take longer than the
scheduled laboratory
period to accommodate
field trips.)
Pondella
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
106. BIOLOGY OF
CALIFORNIA.
A
component of the
California Environment
Semester. Enrollment
limited to first-year
students enrolled in the
California Environmental
Science Semester.
Braker
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
107. BIODIVERSITY.
Biodiversity, and
threats to biodiversity
throughout the world,
but most especially in
Southern California,
will be explored through
lecture, laboratory, and
field study. Examples
will be drawn from
terrestrial and marine
systems. Includes one
three-hour laboratory
per week and possible
Saturday field trips to
be arranged. Not
applicable to the
Biology major.
Not
given in 2008-2009
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
115. GENERAL
ZOOLOGY.
An
introduction to the
diversity, comparative
anatomy and physiology
of animals. Emphasis is
placed on the
classification of
animals, how animals are
adapted to the
environment, and the
evolutionary
relationships between
the phyla. This class
is designed for science
majors. Includes one
three-hour laboratory
per week.
Goffredi, Martin, Staff
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
130. INTRODUCTION TO
CELL AND MOLECULAR
BIOCHEMISTRY.
A
concept-driven survey
course designed to
provide broad
introduction to the
biochemistry,
physiology, and
molecular biology of
prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells. Topics
include
structure/function
relationships of
biological
macromolecules; the
roles of such molecules
in cellular metabolism
and membrane biology;
molecular biology of
DNA, RNA, and protein
synthesis; the cell
cycle; elementary
genetics; and cellular
communication.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week.
Prerequisite: Chemistry
120 or
130 or permission of
instructor.
Prerequisites may be
taken concurrently with
130.
Baran, Pollock,
Thompson, Staff
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
197. INDEPENDENT
STUDY.
Research
in biology, for students
who do not have advanced
competence in biology
(see Biology
397).
Prerequisites:
permission of instructor
and approval of
department.
2
units
Staff
221. MOLECULAR
BIOLOGY.
The
study of DNA
replication;
transcription,
processing and
translation of gene
products; molecular
mapping of genes;
chromosomal
organization; molecular
regulation mechanisms in
prokaryotes and
eukaryotes; mutation and
repair processes;
recombination
mechanisms; and the
techniques to study
these processes.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week plus
two hours arranged.
Prerequisites: Biology
130 and Chemistry
220; or permission
of instructor.
Pollock
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
224-524.
GENETIC ANALYSIS.
Intensive,
concept-driven
exploration of genetic
information transfer
between generations.
Topics include: coverage
of Mendelian principles,
sex-linkage, chromosomal
mapping, parasexual
genetics, fine structure
genetic mapping, and
cytoplasmic inheritance
in eukaryotes. Genetic
systems of bacteria and
viruses, including gene
regulation and special
topics in prokaryotic
genetics. Allelic and
genetic interactions at
the phenotypic level
will be studied along
with developmental
genetics, quantitative
characters, multiple
alleles, population and
evolutionary genetics,
and modern aspects of
molecular genetics.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory session per
week plus two hours
arranged. Prerequisites:
Chemistry
120 or
130, and Biology
130, or permission
of instructor.
Staff
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
240-540.
VERTEBRATE PHYSIOLOGY.
Physical
and metabolic activities
of cells and tissues;
properties of the
cellular environment;
regulatory and
homeostatic functions of
organ systems.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week plus
two hours arranged.
Prerequisites: Biology
115 and
130 or permission of
instructor (Bio
130 may be taken
concurrently).
Schulz
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
250. PLANT FORM AND
FUNCTION.
All
aspects of plant
biology, including
biochemistry, anatomy,
physiology, evolution,
and ecology.
Laboratories will
emphasize experimental
approaches to answering
questions of form and
function. Includes
one three-hour
laboratory per week.
Prerequisite: Biology
115 or
120.
North
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
260. BIODIVERSITY
AND ORGANIZATION OF
MARINE AND TERRESTRIAL
ECOSYSTEMS.
Introduction to marine
and terrestrial
ecosystems and the
physical and biological
attributes contributing
to their organization.
This course will focus
in alternating years on
either the marine
environment of the
Southern California
Bight or the terrestrial
environment of Southern
California. It will
introduce basic physical
attributes and the
organisms of these
dynamic ecosystems.
Students will learn how
to collect data in field
and laboratory settings,
conduct basic analyses
and produce graphics.
This course will serve
to prepare students for
focused upper division
courses and independent
research. Labs may take
longer than the
scheduled lab period to
accommodate field trips.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory session per
week. Prerequisites:
Biology
105 or
115, or permission
of the instructor.
Pondella
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
270. ECOLOGY.
Ecology
explores the
interactions between
organisms and their
biotic and abiotic
environments at a
variety of spatial and
temporal scales. Topics
include factors
affecting organisms at
the population,
community, and ecosystem
levels, and the effect
of human actions on
natural systems.
Practical aspects of
studying ecology involve
work in the laboratory,
computer simulations and
modeling, and field
work. This course
emphasizes the
fundamentals of study
design, sampling, field
techniques, data
analysis, and written
and oral presentation of
results. Includes one
three-hour laboratory
per week and weekend
field trips to be
arranged. Not open to
first-year students fall
semester without
permission of
instructor.
Staff
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
279. EVOLUTIONARY
BIOLOGY.
A
detailed analysis of the
causes and consequences
of biological evolution.
The focus here is on
understanding basic
evolutionary mechanisms,
with plant and animal
examples used to
illustrate and clarify
the fundamentals of the
evolutionary process.
Classical and recent
contributions to our
understanding of
evolutionary biology are
examined, including
population genetics,
theoretical models,
geographical variation,
speciation,
biogeography, phylogeny
reconstruction,
molecular evolution,
macroevolution, and the
evolution of Homo
sapiens. Includes one
three-hour laboratory
per week. Prerequisite:
One previous biology
course with laboratory,
or permission of
instructor.
Staff
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
280. EVOLUTIONARY
BIOLOGY.
A
detailed analysis of the
causes and cvonsequences
of biological evolution.
The focus here is on
understanding basic
evolutionary mechanisms,
with plant and animal
examples used to
illustrate and clarify
the fundamentals of the
evolutionary process.
Classical and recent
contributions to our
understanding of
evolutionary biology are
examined, including
population genetics,
theoretical models,
geographical variation,
speciation,
biogeography, phylogeny
reconstruction,
molecular evolution,
macroevolution, and the
evolution of Homo
sapiens.
Zutti
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
MATH/SCI
310-510.
MUSEUM SCIENCE.
Introduction to the
principles and practice
of museology and the
functioning of a
research natural history
museum. Emphasis will be
on the development of
the ìmuseum conscienceî
and attendant curatorial
skills through extensive
training as a curatorial
assistant in the bird
and mammal collections
of the Moore Laboratory
of Zoology (worldís
largest collection of
Mexican birds).
Prerequisite: permission
of instructor. May be
repeated for credit.
2
units
Hafner
320. DEVELOPMENTAL
BIOLOGY.
Animal
development with an
emphasis on the
molecular mechanisms
that regulate cell fate,
cell adhesion and
motility, and the
formation of different
tissue types. Cell
signaling pathways and
gene regulatory
mechanisms that control
development and are
relevant to adult stem
cell biology and cancer
biology are stressed
throughout the course.
The laboratory focuses
on major invertebrate
and vertebrate model
organisms and both
classical and molecular
genetic approaches used
to study animal
development. Includes
one three-hour
laboratory per week plus
1-2 hours arranged.
Prerequisites: Biology
115,
130, and
221 or
224 (Biology
224 is strongly
recommended).
Co-requisite: Biology
320L.
Baran
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
322. BIOCHEMISTRY.
Survey
of the basic principles
that power biological
processes in all living
organisms. Includes
introduction to
biochemical techniques,
enzyme structure and
function, intermediary
metabolism, synthesis
and degradation of
biological
macromolecules,
information transfer,
and a concept-driven
integration of these
subjects into a
biological context.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week.
Prerequisites: Biology
130 and Chemistry
221; Chemistry
221 may be taken
concurrently with
Biology
322. Co-requisite:
Biology
322L.
Schulz
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
322L. BIOCHEMISTRY
LABORATORY.
Laboratory techniques in
biochemistry including
protein purification,
chromatography,
crystallography, enzyme
kinetics, and
computer-aided
structural analysis.
Co-requisite: Biology
322. Graded on a
Credit/No Credit basis
only.
1
unit
Schulz
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
323-523.
HISTOLOGY.
An
introduction to
histology. Lectures
present the structure
and function of cells,
tissues, and organs in
healthy and diseased
conditions. The
laboratory introduces
students to preparation
of tissue for paraffin,
plastic and cryostat
sectioning and
examination by light and
electron microscopy.
Students work on
projects of their own
choice. Includes one
three-hour laboratory
per week plus two hours
arranged. Prerequisites:
Biology
105 or
115 and
130.
Not
given in 2008-2009
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
325-525.
MICROBIAL DIVERSITY.
An
introduction to the
world of microbes,
including viruses,
archaea, bacteria, and
simple eukaryotes, and
their role in shaping
and sustaining life on
Earth. Emphases will be
placed on structure,
metabolism and
bioenergetics,
physiological and
biochemical adaptations
to unusual environments,
phylogenetic analysis,
biotechnology, microbial
ecology and biological
interactions, including
plant and animal
symbioses. Laboratory
exercises will include
an exploration of
microscopy, cultivation,
biochemical techniques,
and molecualr tools for
studying microorganisms.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week.
Prerequisites: Biology
130 or permission of
the instructor, Biology
221 or
224 strongly
recommended.
Not
given in 2008-2009
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
326-526.
MOLECULAR EVOLUTION.
An
introduction to
molecular evolutionary
theory including the
study of the evolution
of macromolecules
(nucleic acids and
proteins). This
theoretical knowledge
will be applied to the
reconstruction of
evolutionary histories
of genes and organisms.
The emphasis of the
course will be on the
application of molecular
evolution to
phylogenetics and
systematics. Laboratory
sessions will introduce
the student to commonly
used techniques for the
isolation and analysis
of molecular sequences
and the use of computer
software for
phylogenetic analysis.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week.
Prerequisite: Biology
130 or permission of
the instructor.
Not
given in 2008-2009
330-530.
IMMUNOLOGY.
Introduction to current
concepts of immunology,
including immunoglobulin
structure and function,
T cells and B cells,
cell-cell cooperation in
the immune response and
the role of the major
histocompatibility
complex. Includes one
three-hour laboratory
per week plus two hours
arranged. Prerequisites:
Biology
221 (which may be
taken concurrently) or
permission of
instructor.
Co-requisite: Biology
330L.
Pollock
330L. IMMUNOLOGY
LABORATORY.
Introduction to
essential immunological
techniques including
immunization and
immunoassay such as
ELISA; generation of
hybridomas and screening
and characterizing
monoclonal antibodies;
and introduction to
other techniques such as
FACS. Co-requisite:
Biology
330. Graded on a
Credit/No Credit basis
only.
1
unit
Pollock
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
333-533.
NEUROBIOLOGY.
Emphasis
on cell biology and
phsyiology of neurons.
Development and
plasticity of the
nervous system in
invertebrates and
vertebrates. Overview of
selected central nervous
system structures and
their function and the
cellular and molecular
basis of selected
nervous system diseases
and disorders.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week plus
1-2 hours arranged.
Prerequisites: Biology
130 and Biology
240.
Not
given in 2008-2009
340-540.
ADVANCED ANIMAL
PHYSIOLOGY.
Dynamic
physiological properties
will be examined in
single cells, tissues,
and whole organisms.
Emphasis will be placed
on the physiology of
excitable cells and
their integration in the
whole animal.
Laboratories will
utilize advanced
recording techniques
including
microelectrodes,
isometric tension
measurements,
semi-intact preparations
and modern electronics.
Prerequisite: Biology
240.
Not
given in 2008-2009
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
344. INVERTEBRATE
MORPHOLOGY AND
PHYSIOLOGY.
The
structure and functional
organization of
animal-like protists and
invertebrates are
examined as adaptations
to life in specific
habitats. The current
use of these organisms
in applied systems such
as aquaculture and as
models to study basic
biological processes are
discussed. Marine
organisms and parasites
are emphasized. The
phylogenetic
relationships between
taxa are also debated.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week plus
two hours arranged.
Prerequisites: Biology
105 or
115, and
130 or permission of
instructor.
Martin
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
356-556.
THE BIOLOGY OF MARINE
FISHES.
The
biology of marine fishes
begins with a study of
the phylogenetic
evolution of fishes.
Within this context it
discusses the
physiology, ecology and
behavior of marine
fishes utilizing
examples from our local
fauna. Advanced methods
of studying marine
fishes will be covered
with an emphasis on
field research in which
the class will visit
various marine habitats
throughout southern
California. Includes
one three-hour
laboratory per week.
(Labs may take longer
than the scheduled
laboratory period to
accommodate field
trips.) Prerequisite:
Biology
115 or
120 or permission of
instructor.
Not
given in 2008-2009
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
368-568.
BIOLOGICAL STATISTICS.
The
application of
statistical methods to
the solution of
biological problems.
Focus will be on applied
statistics (as opposed
to mathematical
statistics) to study
variation in nature.
This biometry course
will survey descriptive
statistics, probability
and probability
distributions, and
methods of hypothesis
testing (e.g., analysis
of variance, regression,
correlation, goodness of
fit, as well as selected
nonparametric
procedures). Course
includes laboratory
workshop sessions to be
arranged. Prerequisite:
Biology
115,
130,
270, or permission
of instructor.
Not
given in 2008-2009
369-569.
BIOLOGICAL OCEANOGRAPHY.
Biological oceanography
will focus on the
biology of the open
ocean with emphasis
placed on relating
parameters of the
physical-chemical ocean
to the distribution and
abundance of marine
organisms. We will focus
on understanding the
physical and biological
processes of the
southern California
marine area using field
and laboratory
techniques. Using
examples from our local
ecosystem, students will
explore the intricacies
of macro scale
oceanographic processes.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week.
(Labs may take longer
than the scheduled
laboratory period to
accommodate field
trips.) Prerequisite:
Biology
260 or permission of
instructor.
Not
given in 2008-2009
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
377-577.
CONSERVATION ECOLOGY.
Theoretical and applied
aspects of the
preservation of
biological diversity.
Emphasis on the
ecological and
evolutionary background
to species and habitat
conservation, current
threats to biodiversity,
and evaluation of
conservation efforts.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week and
several weekend field
trips to be arranged.
Prerequisite: Biology
270 or permission of
instructor.
Not
given in 2008-2009
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
378-578.
ANIMAL BEHAVIOR.
Emphasizes the
evolutionary approach to
the study of animal
behavior, drawing
broadly from the various
disciplines within
biology concerned with
the factors that
determine which
organisms survive and
reproduce. The course
material will be divided
into four broad
categories: sensory
capabilities, feeding
patterns, spacing
patterns, and
reproduction. For each
topic, theory and
application will be
presented. Students will
analyze research papers
and lead discussions on
an aspect of each major
topic. The laboratory
portion of the course
will focus on
observational and
experimental approaches
to studying animal
behavior in the lab and
in the field. We will
make use of local
resources such as zoos,
aquaria, wildlife
conservation areas,
veterinarians, and
animal rehabilitation
facilities. An
independent research
project is required.
This course is designed
for biology majors,
although it would be
appropriate for students
from other majors.
Includes one three-hour
laboratory per week and
weekend field trips to
be announced.
Prerequisite: Biology
115. Biology
270 and/or
279 are recommended.
Braker
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
380. PLANT
PHYSIOLOGICAL ECOLOGY.
An
examination of
physiological processes
in plants, including
energy conversion, gas
exchange, nutrient
uptake, and water
relations, and how they
are affected by
environmental
conditions. The emphasis
will be on how to
quantify and predict
plant physiological
responses to the
particular ecological
pressures of Southern
California. Includes
one three-hour
laboratory per week.
Prerequisite: Biology
250 or permission of
instructor.
North
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
LAB-SCI
390. SPECIAL TOPICS
IN BIOLOGY.
This
seminar course will
teach students skills
needed to read and
critically analyze
original journal
articles. Some lectures
will be given, but the
bulk of the course will
consist of student-led
discussions and analysis
of scientific papers.
Students will improve
their communication
skills by discussing
papers and leading
discussions, by writing
a research paper and
editing each othersí
papers, and by preparing
PowerPoint presentations
as an aid for leading
discussions. May be
taken more than once for
credit, as the topics
will differ each
semester, but can only
be used to fulfill one
of the requirements for
the Biology major.
Cannot be used to fill
the Biology requirement
of the Biochemistry
major.
Biological Basis of
Symbiosis. Our
Junior Seminar course
for upper level students
emphasizes reading of
scientific literature,
critical analysis of
this literature, and
writing research papers.
Symbioses are intimate
associations involving
two or more species.
Symbiotic associations
are widespread in nature
and we can expect to
find them in every type
of ecological niche.
This course will cover
the diversity of
symbiotic interactions
that exist between both
microbes and fungi and
various eukaryotic
hosts, including plants,
animals, and protists,
as well as other
microorganisms. Topics
will range from
molecular to ecological,
including the specific
molecular communication
between partners, the
evolution of unusual
host structures, novel
physiological and
biochemical
capabilities, and the
unique ecological
advantages that many
symbioses confer.
Prerequisites: at least
two biology courses at
the 200 or 300 level.
Goffredi
CORE REQUIREMENT
MET:
MATH/SCI
395. RESEARCH.
Research
for approximately five
hours per week for
students to study in an
area not otherwise
included in the
departmental curriculum.
Prerequisite: permission
of instructor and
approval of department.
2
or 4 units
Staff
397-597.
INDEPENDENT STUDY.
Directed
research with individual
faculty members for
students with advanced
competency to study in
an area not otherwise
included in the
departmental curriculum.
In addition to topics
that may be studied on
the Occidental campus,
courses offered at the
marine station of the
Wrigley Institute for
Environmental Studies
may be taken for credit
under this course
number. Prerequisite:
permission of instructor
and approval of
department.
2,
4, or 5 units
Staff
490. SENIOR SEMINAR.
Topics
of these seminars will
be announced at spring
pre-registration.
Each senior must pass
one seminar for the
comprehensive
requirement. Each meets
two hours per week, with
extensive reading,
discussion, and a major
oral presentation by
each student.
2
units
Staff
499. HONORS.
Prerequisite: permission
of department.
Staff
501. GRADUATE
RESEARCH.
Supervised investigation
by properly qualified
graduate students
working toward a
Master’s degree.
Students may not
register for more than
two courses of Research
during any semester.
5
units
Staff
590. THESIS FOR
MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE.
Preparation of the
Masterís thesis in
consultation with the
advisor and committee
members.
Prerequisites: at least
two courses of Biology
501 and permission of
the department.
5
units
Staff
595. GRADUATE
SEMINAR.
This
special-topics seminar
course will be offered
as needed to graduate
students in the
department. May be
repeated once for
credit.
2
units
Staff
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