• BIOL 3430

    Physiological Mechanisms in Health and Disease
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     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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 system provides a foundation for study of mechanisms that lead to dysfunction and the identification of potential therapeutic targets and strategies.

  • BIOL 4012

    Evolution and Ecology of Infectious Diseases
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.84

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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 and testing hypotheses, evaluating theoretical models with evidence, drawing parallels between diverse domains of life, and connecting evolutionary and ecological ideas to today's past, present, and future epidemics.

  • BIOL 4030

    The Study of Neuroscience from Molecules to Minds Laboratory
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     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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, development, histology, and microscopy. An emphasis is placed on structure-function relationships, experimental design, and application of techniques in research.

  • BIOL 4330

    Wiring the Brain
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.91

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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 of how this knowledge can be applied to the understanding and treatment of human neural disorders. 25% of the course is standard lectures and the rest, student-led discussion of primary literature. Prereqs: BIOL 3000 & BIOL 3010; BIOL 3050 or PSYC 2200 or 3200

  • BIOL 4820

    Distinguished Major Seminar in Biological Research II
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.99

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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 presentation. Prerequisite: Fourth-year DMP in Biology.

  • HBIO 4820

    Capstone Seminar in Human Biology II
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    4.00

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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 opportunities to meet outside speakers will continue in this semester. This course will be taken in the fourth year. Prerequisite: DMP in Human Biology.

  • BIOL 4900

    Independent Study in Biology
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.82

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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 sciences. Directed readings and discussions can be used to explore how contemporary topics and research areas can be incorporated into other formal courses. Students will have the opportunity to develop both scientific writing and oral presentation skills.

  • BIOL 4910

    Independent Research in the Life Sciences
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.91

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Undergraduate research under the direction of a UVA Professor who doesn't belong to the Biology Department. Despite the 'Closed' status of BIOL4910 on SIS, the course is open for enrollment. For application instructions, see the section 'How to Enroll in Independent Research with a Faculty Member Outside of the Biology Department' at: https://bio.as.virginia.edu/undergraduate/research. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission

  • BIOL 4920

    Independent Research in Biology
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.84

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Independent research for qualified undergraduates under the direction of a faculty member within the Biology Department. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission

  • BIOL 4930

    Distinguished Major Thesis Research
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     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    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 of their work in a written thesis. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission