BS Biology

MTH 30 Pre-Calculus Mathematics
Fundamental concepts of sets and the real and complex number systems; algebraic and trigonometric functions and relations; inequalities.
One of the following prerequisites is required: MTH 10, Placement Exam, 560 or higher on MATH SAT, 25 or higher on ACT Assessment
Credits: 4

MTH 40 Calculus I
Limits and continuity; analytic geometry; theorems on derivatives and definite integrals; and various applications of such theorems involving exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric and hyperbolic functions.
Pre-requisite of MTH 30 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 1 General Biology
First semester of a two-semester sequence (BIO 1, BIO 2). A biochemical and molecular approach to the study of concepts of general biology. Topics include the study of cellular and subcellular structure and the function of plant and animal tissues, including bioenergetics, physiology, heredity, and development and evolution of living systems. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory periods per week. Open only to Science
and Pharmacy majors and University Honors Students.
Credits: 4

BIO 2 General Biology
Second semester of a two-semester sequence (BIO 1, BIO 2). A biochemical and molecular approach to the study of concepts of general biology. Topics include the study of cellular and subcellular structure and the function of plant and animal tissues, including bioenergetics, physiology, heredity, and development and evolution of living systems. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory periods per week. Open only to Science
and Pharmacy Majors and University Honors
Students.
Credits: 4

CHM 3 General Chemistry I
A modern course in general chemistry, stressing the fundamental principles of atomic and molecular structure, stoichiometry, states of matter, and thermodynamics. Laboratory experiments supplement the lecture material. Two lecture hours, one recitation period and a three-hour laboratory period. For Science majors.
The co-requisite or pre-requisite of Math 30 is required. Students in the PHR3 and PHR6 Student group are not allowed to register for this course.
Credits: 4


CHM 4 General Chemistry II
A modern course in general chemistry, stressing the fundamental principles chemical equilibria, rates of reactions, nuclear chemistry, coordination compounds, thermodynamics and electrochemistry. This course also emphasizes descriptive inorganic chemistry, the theory and practice of semi-micro qualitative analysis and an introduction to organic chemistry. Laboratory experiments supplement the
lecture material. Two lecture hours, one recitation period and a three-hour laboratory period. For Science majors.
Pre-requisite of CHM 3 is required. Students in the PHR3 and PHR6 Student group are not allowed to register for this course.

PHY 31 General Physics
The standard introduction to physics intended primarily for science majors, but may be taken by non-science students. First semester: classical mechanics of linear and rotational motion, Newton’s laws of motion and gravitation, conservation of energy and momentum. Two lecture hours, one two-hour recitation period, one two-hour laboratory period.
Pre-requisite of MTH 30 is required.
Credits: 4


PHY 32 General Physics
A non-calculus-based introduction to physics intended primarily for science majors, but may be taken by non-science students. Second semester: electricity, magnetism, optics, relativity, atomic and nuclear physics. Two lecture hours, one two-hour
recitation period, one two-hour laboratory period.
The pre-requisites of PHY 31 and MAT 30 are
required.
Credits: 4

CHM 121 Organic Chemistry I
A modern course in organic chemistry, stressing the principles of naming organic compounds, chemical bonding and functional groups, chemical reactivity and reaction mechanisms. The course emphasizes the study of the properties and reactivities of alcohols, alkyl halides and alkenes. Substitution and elimination reactions, radical reactions and additions reactions are introduced. Two lecture hours, one quiz period and a three-hour laboratory period.
The pre-requisite of CHM 4 is required. Students in the PHR3 Student group are not allowed to register for this course.
Credits: 4


CHM 122 Organic Chemistry II
Overview of the main spectroscopic methods used in the identification of organic compounds with a particular emphasis on the study of nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopy. Introduction to organometallic chemistry. Alcohol functional groups, synthesis of alcohols by means of reduction reactions and reactivity of alcohols in oxidation reactions. Synthesis and reactivity of the carbonyl group. Reactivity of enols and enolates, study of the reactions of carboxylic acids and their derivatives, the acid chlorides, anhydrides, esters, amides and nitriles. Study of amines, aryl halides and phenols. Two lecture hours, one recitation hour and a three-hour laboratory period.
The pre-requisites of CHM 4 and CHM 121 are required. Students in the PHR3 Student group are not allowed to register for this course.
Credits: 4

BIO 102 Marine Biology
An examination of the physical attributes of sea water and its organisms, extending from the invertebrates, including corals, to fish and other vertebrates. The major approach is ecological, with the physical and biotic factors of different habitats. Laboratory sessions include dissections. Some field trips are included for observation and sample
collections. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory period per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 103 Comparative Anatomy and Evolution of Vertebrates
A study of the fundamentals of taxonomy, evolution, paleobiology and comparative morphology of the vertebrates. Two hours of lecture and one four-hour laboratory period per week plus museum study.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 104 Human Functional Anatomy
A regional approach to the major musculoskeletal, sensory and physiologic systems of the body, emphasizing the anatomical basis of normal human activity such as breathing, seeing, eating, walking, speaking and hearing. Relevant examples of congenital and other abnormalities, as well as commonly sustained injuries, are used to underscore the significance of anatomical relationships. Two three-hour combined lecture laboratory periods per week.
The pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required, or permission of the Instructor.
Credits: 4

BIO 105 Invertebrate Zoology
A study of the morphology, physiology, evolution and ecological relationships of representatives of selected invertebrate phyla. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory periods per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 106 Ecology
An examination of the place of humanity in the web of nature - its relationship to the environment and the need for rational coexistence with the earth. The fundamentals of the science, such as population dynamics, the ecosystem and biogeochemical cycles are stressed. Recitation includes field trips, projects, seminars, reports and literature reviews. Two hours of lecture, one hour recitation and one three-hour laboratory period per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required
Credits: 4

BIO 107 Parasitology
A study of the life cycles and control of animal parasites, with particular reference to those of humanity and domesticated animals. Two hours of lecture, one hour of recitation and one three-hour laboratory period per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 108 Molecular Biology of Plants
This course is designed to provide students with knowledge about the principles of plant biology and its applications at the level of genes and molecules. Students will learn current topics in plant biology: how plants grow, develop, respond to hormones, light, stress and assimilate carbohydrates. During lectures, we will discuss the following topics: how genes regulate physiological processes, how those genes have been found, and how the expression of those genes is regulated. Scientific papers and experiment data will be discussed as well. Secondly, students will learn about the concept, techniques and applications of plant genomics, bioinformatics and systems biology by experiencing Arabidopsis thaliana research. Students will learn how to use representative Arabidopsis biological information resources, and mutant libraries that are available on-line. Using this information and knowledge, students will perform small research projects. After taking this course, students will learn current questions of plant molecular biology and up-to-date techniques of plant genomics. By performing research, students will have the opportunity to be trained as future molecular biology researchers or agricultural scientists in academia and industry. Two hours of lecture and two, two-hour laboratory periods per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 109 Bacteriology
An introduction to the biology of bacteria, yeast and molds, with consideration of the principles and practices of bacteriological techniques. Host-parasite relationships and the immune response are also studied. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory periods per week.
Pre-requisites of BIO 2 or BIO 4, and CHM 4 are
required.
Credits: 4

BIO 111 Virology
An exploration of the nature of viruses, viral genetics, structure, infectivity, and transmission. Designed to acquaint students with all aspects of virology, the course examines viral transcription, classification/nomenclature of viruses, the origin/evolution of viruses, and prions. Detailed analyses are conducted in emerging viruses, the role of viruses in cancer progression and vaccine development. Laboratory exercises explore several techniques in virology including the isolation, purification and growth of bacteriophage. Detection and analysis of viral nucleic acid with PCR, RT-PCR, and gel electrophoresis as diagnostic tools is also incorporated into the laboratory exercises. Readings include selected texts with heavy reliance on the primary literature. Student presentations on anti-viral targeting techniques will augment laboratory material. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory periods per week plus collateral reading.
The pre-requisite of BIO 2 or 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 112 Immunobiology
A study of cellular and humoral immunology. Topics covered include antigen and antibody structure, the genetic control of antibody formation, cell-cell interactions, hypersensitivity,
histocompatibility immunogenetics, transplantation, tumor immunology, autoimmune disorders and immune deficiency disorders. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory
periods per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4
Every Spring

BIO 114 Herpetology
A study of the anatomy and physiology of amphibians and reptiles and their roles in different world ecosystems. Lectures place the topics in evolutionary and ecological contexts. Laboratory sessions include the study of behavior and examination of specimens, including dissections. Two hours of lecture and two, two-hour laboratory periods per week plus one visit to the American Museum of Natural History and one into the field.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 115 Histology
This course examines the microscopic anatomy of mammalian cells, tissues and organs with emphasis on the correlation between structural adaptations and function. The course includes lectures, class discussions, and laboratory sessions which will enable students to develop not only a theoretical understanding of the microscopic anatomy, but also
to develop practical abilities. The laboratory portion of Bio 115 will give students the opportunity to examine the microscopic structure of stained and mounted sections of mammalian tissues as well as images and web content. The laboratory work will focus on developing observational skills while getting experience in the effective use of the microscope as a scientific tool. Students will be also be expected to grasp the terminology and basic concepts of specialized histotechniques used in the preparation of specimens. The ultimate goal is to provide students with a working knowledge of microscopic anatomy and prepare students for subsequent courses and solve real-life issues. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory periods per week plus collateral reading.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 117 Animal Development
This course is designed to introduce the fundamental questions and answers of developmental biology to advanced undergraduate students. The entire course will be dedicated to answer the big question of developmental biology: how single-celled zygotes develop into multicellular organisms that are made of numerous types of cells in a highly ordered way. The lectures will focus on cell-cell interactions, cell fate determination, pattern formation, organ development and evolutionary development. Students will learn how those developmental processes are regulated in the level of molecules and genes. The later part of the course will be dedicated to studying plant development. In the laboratory class, students will study prepared slides of the starfish, frog, chick embryo and living material of the sea urchin and Arabidopsis plants. Modern molecular and genetic techniques that are used in developmental biology will be discussed as well. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour laboratory periods per week plus collateral reading.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4


BIO 118 Biology of Animal Behavior
This course will provide a rigorous scientific framework in which to understand behavior from mechanistic, ecological and evolutionary perspectives by examining topics including the genetic, physiological, neural and developmental bases of behavior, animal learning, foraging, habitat selection, predator-prey interaction, communication, reproduction and mating systems, parental care and social behavior. Two hours of lecture and two hours of recitation per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 3

BIO 119 Principles of Evolution
The goal of this course is to provide a comprehensive introduction to modern evolutionary biology, an exciting, dynamic and important field of scientific investigation that
constitutes the central theme unifying all of biology. The course begins with an introduction to evolutionary thinking followed by the study of the pattern of evolution and the mechanisms that cause evolutionary change. Then it continues with the fundamental concepts of evolutionary genetics, natural selection, and adaptation. Additional
topics include molecular evolution and systematics, the origins of biological diversity, paleobiology and macroevolution. The primary emphasis will be on concepts. However, a major goal will be to impart some understanding of the methods used in evolutionary investigations: the kinds of observations and experiments that are used, the facts that are observed and inferred, and the kinds of reasoning used to develop and test hypotheses. Students are expected to critically examine and evaluate biological phenomena in light of the
evolutionary processes that shaped them. Laboratory exercises and discussions of relevant literature are used to reinforce the concepts learned during lectures. Two hours of lecture, one hour of recitation and three hours of laboratory per week plus term paper.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 120 Field Study in Ecology
Each year the ecology of a different part of the world is studied; for example, Florida, Costa Rica, the American Southwest or the Galapagos.Emphasis is on the biota of a region and their adaptations and evolution. Local habitats are interpreted in an ecological context along with the role of human influence. Depending on locality field techniques may include hiking, snorkeling, animal observation and identification, and water/ soil analysis. Lectures are interdisciplinary and suitable for all disciplines. Requirements include a field notebook, quizzes and a final report. Three days on campus plus 10 to 12 days at the field site.
Travel expenses are incurred.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 3

BIO 121 Ornithology
A study of the anatomy, physiology, ecology, behavior and evolution of birds. The major goal is to integrate information from other biology courses to gain a better understanding of biology as a whole. A second goal is to gain an appreciation of the diversity of the natural world through an intense survey of birds. Laboratory topics include anatomical studies of bird anatomy and feather structure and computer sessions examining bird song and bird evolution. Two hours of lecture and one four hour laboratory period or field trip per
week. Field trips include visits to the Ornithology Department of the American Museum of Natural History, the Bronx Zoo, the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, and Floyd Bennett Field (Gateway National Recreation Area).
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 125 Physiology
An examination of the mechanisms and dynamics of living matter. Laboratory work consists of experimental exercises in the field of general and
animal physiology. Two lecture hours, one four hour laboratory period per week, collateral reading and reports.
Pre-requisites of BIO 2 or BIO 4, and CHM 4 are required.
Credits: 4
Cross-Listings: BIC 125, BIO 125

BIO 126 Principles of Genetics
A molecular approach to classical genetics, with the implications of current events in DNA research on human problems. The laboratory, which integrates exercises with Drosphila, bacteria and computer simulations, requires weekly reports. Two lecture hours, two two-hour laboratory periods per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4
Cross-Listings: BIC 126, BIO 126

BIO 127 Cell Signaling
This course will consist of a lecture series focusing primarily on the characteristics of signal transduction pathways. It will outline the necessity of cell signaling in prokaryotes, the cellular slime mold, dictyostelium, and matazoan development and homeostasis. The course will end in cell signaling's relevance in the development of novel
drugs. In addition, there will be a laboratory session which will focus on experiments in cell signaling. It is designed as a precursor to laboratory research. Students will be exposed to various techniques in protein chemistry. They will then be encouraged to design their own experiments in cell signaling using techniques and equipment seen throughout the
course. Two hours of lecture and two two-hour
laboratory periods per week.
The pre-requisite of BIO 2 or 4 is required.
Credits: 4
BIO 128 The Basis of Cell Function
An introduction to the structure and function of the eukaryotic cell and its organelles, stressing the underlying similarities among cell types. The laboratory includes microscopy, cell fractionation, chromatography, electrophoresis, DNA restriction analysis and computer research to study the interdependence of cellular structure and function.
Two lecture hours, two two-hour laboratory periods
per week. (Same as BIO 128).
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4
Cross-Listings: BIC 128, BIO 128

BIO 129 The Biological Basis of Human Variation
This course explores the biological foundations of human variability and attempts to clarify the relationship between biological and racial perspectives of human populations. There are two broad themes: first, what does science say about the way we frame discussions of human differences, and second, what are the implications of human biological variation for addressing a wide range of medical and socio-political issues? We begin with a basic overview of the Biology of Classification and hen proceed to examine various traits of
inheritance as well as the origin, characteristics, and distribution of major living human groups. Some specific genetically-based diseases offer insight into the pros and cons of so-called “race-based” medicine and provide a springboard for considering medical practice tailored to population and/or individual genetic profiles. In addition, we must take into
account scientists’ ultimate ability to alter our basic biology. Are "designer babies" on the horizon for our species and if so, how will technological advances affect the range and distribution of human variability? We will also examine criteria for establishing census categories and immigration policies within the context of biological differences. Throughout the course, our inquiries will take place against the backdrop of historical considerations, with students asked to review and critique earlier scientific work based on a current understanding of human biological variation. Three hours of lecture per week.
The pre-requisite of BIO 2 or 4 is required.
Credits: 3

BIO 136 Biological Techniques
A study of fundamental techniques employed in the biological sciences, including the uses of radioisotopes. One hour of lecture and two three-hour laboratory periods per week.
Pre-requisite of BIO 2 or BIO 4 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 141 The Science of Sustainability
The United nations defines sustainability as "meeting the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to
meet their own needs." Creating sustainable societies is often centered upon the wise stewardship of the environment and natural resources. This course will introduce and demonstrate the major sustainability issues related to the natural and man-made environment, and allow students to consider the broader societal impacts of these issues. In addition to readings and classroom discussion, this course will use written reflections and experiential learning activities to amplify course content.
The pre-requisite of BIO 2 or 4 is required.
Credits: 3

BIO 151 Bioinformatics and Genomics
This course gives an introduction to bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary field that uses computer technology to study biological data, and so me of its applications in genomics, the study of the entire set of genetic material in organisms. The course will start with an overview of molecular evolution in DNA and proteins, the databases and tools that are used for their analyses including phylogenetics then graduate to the use of the next-generation sequencer ION PGM (Personal Genome Machine) on bacterial genomes. Students will also learn how to analyze their PGM data on the IonReporter, a bioinformatics software that elucidates bacterial composition and diversity. Three hours of lecture per week
Pre requisites: BIO 160 or BIO 161 or BIO 126
Credits: 3
BIO 152 Foundations of Biochemistry
A study of the chemical structure and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. Quantitative aspects of enzyme function and
bioenergetics are also covered. This course provides the necessary background for Biology majors and preprofessional students. Three hours of lecture per week.
Pre-requisite of CHM 122 and BIO 2 or 4 is
required.
Credits: 3

BIO 153 Proteomics/Macromolecules Structure and Function
Proteomics is the discipline of molecular biology concerned with the analysis of protein expression in cells, tissues and/or organisms. Areas of study include (a) protein purification, (b) protein identification, (c) protein modification and localization, (d) protein structure and function and (e) protein-protein interactions. The ultimate goal of proteomics is to have an understanding of the structure, function, localization and interactions of the entire protein content of a specific organism. This course is designed to teach students about proteomics and how to use proteomic tools. Topics include (a) protein synthesis and folding, (b) protein purification, (c) protein analysis using mass spectroscopy, yeast two hybrid system, coimmumoprecipitation, (d) biological databases, (e) sequence alignment and (f) protein structural predictions. Two hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory per week
A pre requisite of BIO 151 is required.
Credits: 4

BIO 157 Bioinformatics, Capstone I
The first semester of a two semester sequence of the bioinformatics major's capstone experience involving research in the field of bioinformatics. The two semester capstone course series is an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge gained during their 4 year course of study to real-world situations. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, students identify a research question and explore and conduct detailed research in the field of bioinformatics. In addition, students may work independently or in small groups. Students will join a professional society and be required to read the scientific literature. Students will be required to present updates on their research and/or scientific papers during monthly meetings.
Credits: 3

BIO 158 Bioinformatics, Capstone II
The second semester of a two semester sequence of the bioinformatics major¿s capstone experience involving research in the field of bioinformatics. The two semester capstone course series is an opportunity for students to apply the knowledge gained during their 4 year course of study to real-world situations. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, students identify a research question and explore and conduct detailed research in the field of bioinformatics. In addition, students may work independently or in small groups. Students will join a professional society and be required to read the scientific literature. Students will be required to present updates on their research and/or scientific papers during monthly meetings.
A pre requisite of BIO 157 is required.
Credits: 3

BIO 159 Bioinformatics, Field Placement
This course is designed to give college credit for student internships in the field of bioinformatics. Analogous to the Capstone courses, this course is designed to give students the opportunity to obtain work experience in the field of bioinformatics.
A pre requisite of BIO 157 is required.
Credits: 3

BIO 160 Molecular Biology
An introduction to molecular biology laboratory techniques. The laboratory emphasizes the techniques and applications of recombinant DNA technology; laboratories include molecular cloning, blotting, DNA sequencing and PCR, genomic and plasmid DNA isolation, and purification and labeling of DNA fragments. Two two-hour laboratory periods per week. Prerequisites: CHE 4.
BIO 161 or BIO 126 recommended.
Pre-Requisite of CHM 4 is required.
Credits: 2
Cross-Listings: BIC 160, BIO 160

BIO 161 Introductory Molecular Biology
A study of advanced molecular genetics emphasizing gene structure and regulation in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Detailed biochemistry of DNA structure and replication, RNA
transcription and processing, protein synthesis, and the mechanisms that regulate gene expression are reviewed. Three lecture hours per week.
The pre-requisite of BIO 2 or 4 is required.
Credits: 3
Cross-Listings: BIC

BIO 193 Honors Research
Honors Research is designed to give students in the Molecular Biology program an opportunity to do research under the guidance of the faculty. To be eligible, students must have senior status. Open to science majors who have completed BIO 160 and
have the permission of the instructor. Ten hours of laboratory per week.
The pre-requisite of BIO 160 is required.
Credits: 5

BIO 194 Honors Research
Honors Research is designed to give students in the Molecular Biology program an opportunity to do research under the guidance of the faculty. To be eligible, students must have senior status. This course is also open to science majors who have completed BIO 160 and have the permission of the instructor. Twelve hours of laboratory per week.
The pre-requisite of BIO 160 is required.
Credits: 6

BIO 550 Molecular and Cell Biology
An advanced course in the molecular biology of eukaryotic gene structure and regulation, with emphasis on mammalian cell and developmental biology and genetics. Biochemical and biophysical studies of nucleic acids, chromatin and chromosome structure, somatic cell and immunogenetics; DNA sequence organization and cell developmental biology are all considered. Two hours of lecture per week. A course in molecular biology or genetics is recommended.
Credits: 2

BIO 551 Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory
An advanced laboratory course in the molecular biology of eukaryotic cells. Laboratory instruction may include RNA isolation and analysis, protein expression and purification, protein-protein interaction, DNA-mediated gene transfer and microcomputer analysis of DNA sequence databases. Two two-hour laboratory sessions per week.
Credits: 2

CHM 135 Physical Chemistry I
A study of thermodynamics, solution equilibria, chemical kinetics, and electrochemistry and their application to biological systems. Three lecture hours, one three-hour laboratory. Open only to Chemistry and Biochemistry majors and to qualified students in other majors with the permission of the Department Chair.
The pre-requisites of CHM 113, CHM 122, PHY 32 and MTH 40 are all required.
Credits: 4