Imagine a world where your DNA is sequenced for free and any human gene can be altered at will. The goal of this course is to address the question: can …
BIOL 2100 is one of two semester courses that together provide an intensive introduction to biology for prospective Biology majors and pre-health (med, vet, dental) students. This course focuses on …
BIOL 2200 is one of two semester courses that together provide an intensive introduction to biology for prospective Biology majors and pre-health (med, vet, dental) students. This course focuses on …
Examines the fundamental principles of eukaryotic cell biology at the molecular level. Topics include: structure and function of the plasma membrane, transport of small molecules, ions and macromolecular complexes across …
What makes humans different from fruit flies? Why does your brain have neurons and not liver cells? This course is all about the answer to these questions: It's the genes! …
Examines the mechanisms of evolutionary change, with an emphasis on the genetic and evolutionary principles needed to understand the diversification of life on earth. Covers the ecology of individuals and …
Biochemistry underlies nearly every biological process, from environmental science to medicine. When living systems are in chemical and energetic balance, organisms thrive. When they're out of balance, as in disease …
Are developmental biology and regenerative biology one and the same? Throughout this course, we will emphasize both classical and modern experimental approaches that have been used to unravel the genetic, …
Analyzes the concepts of general neurobiology, including basic electrophysiology and electrochemistry, origin of bioelectric potentials, sensory, motor, integrative and developmental neurobiology, and conceptual models of simple learning. Prerequisites: BIOL 2100 …
Infectious disease impacts every human, plant and animal on earth. What is the most deadly disease in human history? What is killing our ocean's turtles? Why is Zika so scary? …
This is an introductory course that takes a multidisciplinary approach to studying the relationship between plants and people. The course focuses on providing students foundational information on the growth, development, …
Focuses on selected vertebrate organ systems; considers other systems where relevant. Prerequisite: BIOL 2010 and 2020.
Studies the genetics and cell biology of the vertebrate immune system, with a focus on adaptive immunity. Classic and current experimental systems are emphasized. Prerequisite: Must have completed or be …
An introduction to comparative studies of animal behavior from neuroethological and evolutionary prospectives. The first deals with proximate causes of behavior, with emphasis on motor, sensory and central aspects of …
Genome databases contain a wealth of information that enable us to answer myriad questions in biology. Working with genome data requires foundational knowledge in molecular genetic concepts, as well as …
Microbes rule. In this course, we will explore how microbes rule the world and how genomics has revolutionized the way we study them. Fundamental principles of microbiology will be introduced. …
This course, the first in a two-course sequence, is an introduction to the structure and function of the human body. Review of the structure and physiology of cells and tissues …
This course, the second in a two-course sequence, examines structures and functions of the endocrine, cardiovascular, urogenital, respiratory, renal, gastrointestinal and reproductive systems. Control mechanisms and functional integration of these …
Emphasis on the functions and integration of human nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and renal systems in maintaining homeostasis, and by extension, health. Normal function, from cells to organs, of each …
Introduction to the fundamental principles of conservation biology (e.g., global species numbers, value of biodiversity, causes of extinction, genetic diversity, island biogeography, priority setting) and current topics of debate (including …
In this course, new transfer students will get to know the scientists and research going on in the Biology Department. We'll read scientific papers and participate in weekly departmental seminars. …
New course in the subject of biology.
Tutorial or seminar course that allows intensive study of the literature in a particular area of biology under the guidance of a Biology faculty member.
Independent wet-lab or dry-lab research, under the supervision of a University of Virginia faculty member who does not have primary affiliation with the Biology Department, with emphasis on learning basic …
Independent wet-lab or dry-lab research for Biology majors, under the supervision of a University of Virginia faculty member in the Department of Biology, with emphasis on learning basic experimental approaches …
This course introduces students to scientific-based discovery of how molecular dysfunction leads to disease. It also exposes them to the most current tools used in biomedical research to find novel …
The human body maintains stable energy levels, hydration, and temperature despite the challenges of ever-changing external environment, a process known as homeostasis. This course explores biological models and mechanisms of …
In this course, we'll dive into our current understanding of the evolution and ecology of parasitic interactions through primary literature, modeling, and experimental design. Throughout, we will focus on generating …
The course will deep dive into what stem cells are, what they do, where and how they function, and how we can use stem cells in the clinic to repair …
Animals are incredibly diverse, but they all evolved from the same single-celled ancestor that lived hundreds of millions of years ago. This course takes a cell-biological approach to explore key …
This course addresses the impact of the human genome project on understanding human genetic disease, focusing on the invaluable role for animal models of diseases in augmenting evaluation of genomic …
One of the most important characteristics of life is the ability to reproduce. In order to produce new life, multicellular organisms evolved specialized cells whose only purpose is reproduction ¿ …
Microbes rule. This course will teach microbial genomics using the cutting edge next-generation DNA sequencing technology and its applications to study microbes around us. Topics covered include microbial genomics, DNA …
This course begins with discussion of pharmacological principles and normal function of the nervous and endocrine system. As we continue, we will describe how exogenous substances derived from plants (like …
The evolutionary history of a population can be studied by examining patterns of genetic variation among individuals. Using information about genetic variation, we can infer historical evolutionary events like migration …
This course will provide an in-depth exploration of the field of regenerative biology, focusing on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying tissue regeneration and repair in animals. We will explore …
This course introduces students to foundational and modern neuroscience research techniques through laboratory investigations. Neuroscience is explored at the molecular, systems, and behavioral level. Topics covered include neuroanatomy, electrophysiology, biopotentials, …
Introduces students to experimental approaches, including mammalian cell culture, gel electrophoresis, western blotting and immunofluorescence microscopy, that are used to study both normal and pathological processes at the level of …
This course for advanced undergrads focuses on Alzheimer's disease research. The first 3 weeks are didactic. The remainder of the course emphasizes a "journal club¿ format where teams of students …
Introduction to experimental methods in neural development research using zebrafish as a model system. Lectures focus on vertebrate nervous system development and teratogens. Labs build skills in brightfield and fluorescence …
The goal of this course is to provide an original, unknown outcome research experience in developmental biology. After training in basic methods and descriptions of selected research problems, students form …
From plants to humans, hormones shape various aspects of organismal form and behavior over contemporary and evolutionary time. Delve into endocrine pathways, hormones' influence on development, and their role in …
The mathematical foundations of population dynamics and species interactions as applied to population and community ecology and problems in conservation biology. One semester of calculus is recommended. Prerequisite: BIOL 3020 …
Aging is an evolutionary paradox because it decreases physiological function and increases the risk of mortality, yet aging persists in most species. We will explore the theories of aging and …
Despite the many benefits of asexual reproduction, the vast majority of eukaryotic organisms reproduce sexually. How sex evolved, and how it persists despite its many associated costs, are major unanswered …
Introduces biological timekeeping as used by organisms for controlling diverse processes, including sleep-wakefulness cycles, photoperiodic induction and regression, locomotor rhythmicity, eclosion rhythmicity, and the use of the biological clock in …
Why do some diseases become global pandemics, while others die out? What happens to a food web when a species goes extinct? What roles do different organisms have within a …
Focuses on the fundamental knowledge about organization, expression, and inheritance of the human genome. Reviews classical Mendelian genetics and human genetic (pedigree) analysis. Emphasizes understanding human genetics in molecular terms. …
This course uses a case study approach to examine cellular processes that underlie diverse diseases and to identify the relevant molecular components that have been validated or that may serve …
This laboratory course provides hands-on experiences with experimental approaches used to study animal behavior. The laboratory exercises explore visual and auditory sensory perception, biological clock, reproductive and aggressive behaviors using …
This course studies behavior paradigms in model animals and the modern genetic tools used study and dissect the circuits underlying them. Can an animal as simple as a fly or …
The process of speciation is fundamental to understanding life's diversity, with implications for how we study evolution, how we define species in nature, and the processes by which they form. …
This two-lectures-per-week course explores the basic principles of sensory neurobiology. The course consists of four modules. Each module represents one of the senses & consists of an introductory lecture, one …
This advanced undergraduate course explores how cells communicate with each other and respond to their environment. This area of biology is referred to as signal transduction and is the basis …
This course focuses on how relatively simple model systems provide the clues as to how certain synaptic connections form and lead to specific behaviors. This will be followed by discussion …
This is a journal club format seminar where we perform an in depth analysis of the papers listed below. One paper will be covered per week with a review article …
This seminar course revolves around student-led presentations of primary literature in the field of cancer therapy using novel approaches including immunotherapies. Objectives include providing the student with significant exposure to …
We can't live without plants. Plants make our existence possible, and they hold secrets for a better future. Our experimental approach in this lab will combine genetics and genomics strategies …
New course in the subject of biology.
Periodic seminar offerings to provide intensive study of the scientific literature in focused areas of Biology.
Through the analysis of patterns of genetic variation in DNA, the field of Molecular Evolution seeks to gain insight into the fundamental evolutionary forces that generate, maintain, and remove genetic …
How has a bioluminescent jellyfish saved lives? What does a Himalayan pond fish have to do with research into the origins of psychiatric disorders? Innovative methods in biomedical research have …
The extraordinary diversity of the southern Appalachians will be used to explore the world of plants. We will visit unique mountain habitats to study the different species assemblages in these …
Students will integrate principles of stream and watershed ecology to gain insight into stream-dwelling organisms and their environments. Participants will be introduced to the physical, chemical and biological organization of …
We will focus on the ecology and evolution of reptiles and amphibians, leveraging their diversity in the southeastern US. In both the field and laboratory, we will study 1) the …
MLBS sits on the Eastern Continental Divide providing an incredible diversity of freshwater habitats. Proficiency in ichthyology will be developed through field trips and lab work. Themes include: fish ID; …
Insects are perhaps the most important animal group on the face of the earth. Their enormous diversity makes them important models for understanding many concepts in biology. Students will observe …
This course focuses on the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases in wild animal populations. Topics include the population biology of parasites and pathogens, host immune defenses and pathogen virulence, …
This course will illustrate principles of behavior and provide experience with methods used in animal behavior research. Students will develop an understanding of the scientific process as applied to behavior …
By applying the principles of engineering to biology, students will design molecules, viruses, and cells to solve global problems in public health, food security, manufacturing, information processing, and the environment, …
Two-hour, weekly discussion of recent advances in biology; attend biology seminars, interact with seminar speakers, explore the philosophy and practice of science, and learn skills in oral and written research …
A weekly seminar co-organized by participating faculty to integrate students' independent research and coursework with contemporary issues at the intersection of biology, the humanities and social sciences. Students will have …
Two-hour, weekly discussion of recent advances in biology; attend biology seminars, interact with seminar speakers, explore the philosophy and practice of science, and learn skills in oral and written research …
A weekly discussion and workshop co-organized by participating faculty to provide guidance and advice to students on completing their research or independent study and writing their thesis. Occasional seminars and …
This course will explore paths towards careers in biology and the skills and training required to pursue them. The course will include visits from professional biologists and UVA alumnae, who …
Independent study under the direction of a Biology faculty member for students to read and critically assess primary research papers and current reviews in a focused area of the life …
Independent wet-lab or dry-lab research for Biology majors (and other specific majors), under the supervision of a University of Virginia faculty member who does not have primary affiliation with the …
Independent wet-lab or dry-lab research for Biology majors, under the supervision of a University of Virginia faculty member in the Department of Biology, with emphasis on experimental design, data acquisition, …
This course is the final semester of Independent Research for participants of the Biology Distinguished Majors Program. During this semester, students will complete their laboratory investigations, ultimately presenting the sum …
This course will provide students with essential hands-on experience in experimental design, data collection, analysis, and science communication. Students will have the opportunity to think critically and creatively about biology …
Independent research/independent study under the guidance of a primary mentor within the College of Arts and Sciences. Prerequisite: DMP in Human Biology.
Independent research/independent study under the guidance of a primary mentor within the College of Arts and Sciences. Prerequisite: DMP in Human Biology.
Independent research/independent study under the guidance of a primary mentor within the College of Arts and Sciences. Research/study forms the basis for the DMP thesis to be submitted at the …
This course is designed to provide students the opportunity for hands-on learning in experimental sciences leading to a Capstone thesis project and written thesis. Students, working with a primary mentor …
Practical usage of various microscopy imaging methodologies to study the morphology and cellular function in various biological systems from single cell to single molecule in cells and tissues. Topics include …
The course will deep dive into what stem cells are, what they do, where and how they function, and how we can use stem cells in the clinic to repair …
The evolutionary history of a population can be studied by examining patterns of genetic variation among individuals from a species. In this lab course, you will learn how to utilize …
This course will focus mainly on research about Alzheimer's disease, and will meet once a week for 3 hours The first 3 weeks will be primarily didactic, and the remainder …
Despite the many benefits of asexual reproduction, the vast majority of eukaryotic organisms reproduce sexually. How sex evolved, and how it persists despite its many associated costs, are major unanswered …
This intensive, graduate-level course is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the principles underlying the development, genetics, and molecular-cellular biology of the nervous system. Over the span of the …
This advanced undergraduate course explores how cells communicate with each other and respond to their environment. This area of biology is referred to as signal transduction and is the basis …
This is a journal club format colloquium where we perform an in depth analysis of the papers listed below. One paper will be covered per week with a review article …
New course in the subject of biology.
The extraordinary diversity of the southern Appalachians will be used to explore the world of plants. We will visit unique mountain habitats to study the different species assemblages in these …
We will focus on the ecology and evolution of reptiles and amphibians, leveraging their diversity in the southeastern US. In both the field and laboratory, we will study 1) the …
MLBS sits on the Eastern Continental Divide providing an incredible diversity of freshwater habitats. Proficiency in ichthyology will be developed through field trips and lab work. Themes include: fish ID; …
Insects are perhaps the most important animal group on the face of the earth. Their enormous diversity makes them important models for understanding many concepts in biology. Students will observe …
This course focuses on the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases in wild animal populations. Topics include the population biology of parasites and pathogens, host immune defenses and pathogen virulence, …
This course will illustrate principles of behavior and provide experience with methods used in animal behavior research. Students will develop an understanding of the scientific process as applied to behavior …
Independent research for qualified graduates under the direction of a faculty member within the Biology Department.
A weekly conference in which students present reports covering various aspects of Integrative Biology. May be repeated for credit.
Integrative Biology seeks to understand how genetic, cellular, and developmental processes give rise to organismal phenotypes and how changes in these processes over time contribute to the evolution of form …
A weekly conference arranged around a current topic. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
This weekly colloquium provides a forum for exploring cutting-edge research in fundamental neuroscience. The course format includes journal club discussions of recent high-impact publications, as well as presentations of ongoing …
This course introduces grad students to a breadth and depth of concepts and theories in modern ecology and evolutionary biology. The couse is co-taught by two BIOL faculty each fall, …
This course introduces grad students to a breadth and depth of concepts and theories in modern ecology and evolutionary biology.. The course is taught by a different BIOL faculty each …
This course introduces grad students to a breadth and depth of concepts and theories in modern ecology and evolutionary biology. The couse is co-taught by two BIOL faculty each fall, …
This course introduces grad students to a breadth and depth of concepts and theories in modern ecology and evolutionary biology.. The course is taught by a different BIOL faculty each …
Introduces professional skills to first-year graduate students in the life sciences. This includes personal skills such as research management, ethics training and career awareness. Skills for communicating in science include …
Introduces professional skills to first-year graduate students in the life sciences. This includes personal skills such as time management, ethics training and professional identity. Skills for communicating in science include …
Developing skill in communicating scientific principles and writing compelling research proposals is essential for successful graduate training in the biological sciences. This seminar and workshop course will focus on how …
This course will explore case studies of research on phenotypes that emphasize the insights and advances gained by bringing a multilevel integrative approach to a target question. Students will learn …
This course uses a student-centered approach to explore the diverse careers available to life science PhD students. Students will identify their skills and experiences that match with professional opportunities, and …
Students will develop the necessary skills and realistic plans for finishing their dissertations and acquiring a position. Website, curriculum vitae, cover letter, research description, teaching portfolio, and summary of professional …
This course will integrate lectures and workshops to teach students how to analyze publicly available single-cell 'omic datasets relevant to their research interests, which students will perform as part of …
New course in the subject of biology.
A discussion of current problems.
For master's research, taken before a thesis director has been selected.
For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director.
An exposure to the working techniques and interactions of the modern Biological Laboratory. Required of all first-year biology graduate students.
An exposure to the working techniques and interactions of the modern Biological Laboratory. Required of all first-year biology graduate students.
Independent research with a member of the Biology faculty in preparation for thesis or dissertation research.
For doctoral research, taken before a dissertation director has been selected.
For doctoral dissertation, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director.