Professors: Robert S. Fritz, E. Pinina Norrod, Mark A. Schlessman,
Robert B. Suter; Associate Professors: Richard B. Hemmes, David
K. Jemiolo (Chair), John H. Long, Jr., Leathem Mehaffey, IIIa,
A. Marshall Pregnall, J. William Straus, Kathleen M. Susman; Assistant
Professors: Cynthia K. Damerb, Nancy J. Pokrywka, Margaret
L. Ronsheim; Lecturer and Coordinator of Laboratory Instruction:
Ann H. Mehaffey.
Requirements for Concentration: 14 units: at the 100–level,
Biology 151 and 152; at the 200–level, 4 units of graded work,
not including Biology 206; at the 300–level, 3 units of graded
work; 5 units to be apportioned as follows:
a) 3 units in Chemistry: 108/109 or 110/111, and 244;
b) 2 units to be chosen from among Chemistry 245; Physics, 113, 114
or 205; Mathematics 101, 102, 121, 122, or 125; Geology 151, 152; Psychology
200; Biopsychology 201; Environmental Science 280; and other intermediate
or advanced science courses subject to departmental approval. One of
the two units may also be an additional graded 200–level or 300–level
Biology course (excluding 206) or ungraded independent research 298
or 399.
Senior Year Requirements: 2 units of graded 300–level biology
taken at Vassar College.
Independent Research: The biology department encourages students
to engage in independent research with faculty mentors, and offers ungraded
courses Biology 178, 298, and 399. The department also offers Biology
303, a graded research experience for senior majors. Students should
consult the chair or individual faculty members for guidance in initiating
independent research.
Field Work: The department offers field work in biology. Students
should consult the field work office and a biology faculty adviser for
details.
Teaching Certification: Students who wish to obtain secondary
school teaching certification in biology should consult both the biology
and education departments for appropriate course requirements.
Early Advising: Those students considering a concentration in
biology, particularly those who have already identified an interest
in a subdiscipline of biology, should consult a departmental adviser
early in their freshman year to discuss appropriate course sequences.
After declaration of the major, no NRO work is permissible in the major.
Postgraduate Work: Students considering graduate school or other
professional schools should be aware that such schools usually require
courses beyond the minimum biology major requirements. In general, students
should have at least a full year of organic chemistry, a year of physics,
and a year of calculus. Students are urged to begin their chemistry
and other correlated sciences coursework as soon as possible, since
this will assist them in successful completion of the biology major.
Students should consult with the chair of biology or the pre–medical
adviser at their earliest opportunity.
Further Information: For additional information on research
opportunities, honors requirements, etc., please see the biology department
website at http://depts.vassar.edu/~biology/
Advisers: For the Class of 2002, Ms. Pokrywka, Mr. Mehaffey,
Mr. Schlessman; for the Class of 2003, Mr. Jemiolo, Mr. Pregnall,
Mr. Straus; for the Class of 2004, Ms. Damer, Mr. Hemmes,
Mr. Long.
Correlate Sequences in Biology:
The Department of Biology offers four correlate sequences, each with
a different emphasis. Students interested in undertaking a correlate
in biology should consult with the chair of the department who serves
as the adviser for correlate sequences. The requirements for each are
listed below:
Cellular Biology/Molecular Biology (7 units)
Biology 151 The Evolution of Biological Diversity
(1)
Biology 152 The Cellular Basis of Life (1)
Chemistry 108/109 or Chemistry 110/111
Two of the following:
Biology 202 Plant Physiology and Development
(1)
Biology 205 Introduction to Microbiology (1)
Biology 228 Animal Physiology (1)
Biology 232 Developmental Biology (1)
Biology 238 Genetics (1)
Biology 272 Cellular Biochemistry (1)
One of the following:
Biology 316 Neurobiology (1)
Biology 323 Cell Biology (1)
Biology 324 Molecular Biology (1)
Biology 370 Immunology (1)
Animal Physiology (6 units)
Biology 151 The Evolution of Biological Diversity
(1)
Biology 152 The Cellular Basis of Life (1)
Biology 228 Animal Physiology (1)
Three of the following, at least one at the 300–level:
Biology 226 Animal Structure and Diversity (1)
Biology 232 Developmental Biology (1)
Biology 238 Genetics (1)
Biology 316 Neurobiology (1)
Biology 370 Immunology (1)
Ecology/Evolution (6 units)
Biology 151 The Evolution of Biological Diversity
(1)
Biology 152 The Cellular Basis of Life (1)
Biology 241 Ecology (1)
Biology 350 Evolutionary Biology (1)
One of the following:
Biology 202 Plant Physiology and Development
(1)
Biology 205 Introduction to Microbiology (1)
Biology 238 Genetics (1)
One of the following:
Biology 208 Plant Structure and Diversity (1)
Biology 226 Animal Structure and Diversity (1)
Biology 354 Plant–Animal Interactions (1)
Biology 356 Aquatic Ecology (1)
Behavior/Neurobiology (6 units)
Biology 151 The Evolution of Biological Diversity
(1)
Biology 152 The Cellular Basis of Life (1)
Two of the following:
Biology 226 Animal Structure and Diversity (1)
Biology 228 Animal Physiology (1)
Biology 241 Ecology (1)
One of the following
Biology 232 Developmental Biology (1)
Biology 238 Genetics (1)
One of the following
Biology 316 Neurobiology (1)
Biology 340 Animal Behavior (1)
I. Introductory
151a and b. The Evolution of Biological Diversity (1)
The diversity of life on this planet is the result of genetic, ecological,
and evolutionary processes. The course examines these processes through
detailed consideration of gene transmission and variation, the mechanisms
and consequences of evolution, and ecological interactions. In the laboratory,
exercises include studies in field ecology and experiments in genetics
and evolution. Emphasis is on experimental design, data collection and
analysis, and use of the scientific literature. The department.
Biology 151 and Biology 152 may be taken in any order.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
152a and b. The Cellular Basis of Life (1)
An examination of the cell as a fundamental unit of life, the functions
of which permeate all levels of biological organization. Cell structure
and function, energy transformations, and processing of genetic information
are studied in detail and related to biological phenomena at many levels.
Experimental design, data analysis using computers, and the use of laboratory
techniques such as light microscopy, spectrophotometry, and electrophoresis
will be incorporated in a series of extended laboratory projects. Each
project will investigate an important problem in cell biology. The department.
Biology 152 and Biology 151 may be taken in any order.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
153. Introductory Cell Biology Laboratory (1/2)
This course is identical to the laboratory portion of Biology 152.
It is open only to students who have advanced standing in the college
and an outstanding background in the theory of cell biology, but who
have not had adequate training in laboratory techniques and analysis.
The department.
Permission of department chair is required.
One 4–hour laboratory.
154. Evolution of Biological Diversity Laboratory (1/2)
This course is identical to the laboratory of Biology 151. The course
is open only to students who have advanced standing in the college and
an exceptional background in evolution, genetics, and systematics, but
who have not had adequate laboratory experience. The department.
Permission of department chair is required.
One 4–hour laboratory.
178. Special Projects in Biology (1/2)
Execution and analysis of a laboratory or field study. Project to be
arranged with individual instructor. The department.
Open to freshmen and sophomores only.
180 Microbial Wars (1)
(Same as STS 180) This course examines ways in which some microbes
have become a problem due to misuse by humans. The topics include resistance
to antibiotics, emerging infections, and bioterrorism. Introductory
material stresses the differences between microbes, including bacteria,
protozoa, and viruses. Ms. Norrod
Two 75–minute periods.
II. Intermediate
Biology 151 and 152 are prerequisites for entry into 200–level
courses unless otherwise stated.
[202. Plant Physiology and Development] (1)
An examination of the cellular and physiological bases of plant maintenance,
growth, development, and reproduction; with emphasis on the values of
different plants as experimental systeMs. Mr. Pregnall.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
Not offered in 2001/02.
205. Introduction to Microbiology (1)
An introduction to the world of microbes, including bacteria, fungi,
and viruses. The study of bacteria is stressed. Studies of the morphology,
physiology, and genetics of bacteria are followed by their consideration
in ecology, industry, and medicine. Ms. Norrod.
Two 75–minute periods; two 2–hour laboratories.
206. Environmental Biology (1)
(Same as Science, Technology, and Society 206, Environmental Studies
Program 206) A biological exploration of the impacts of contemporary
agricultural production, transportation, waste disposal, and energy
production, as well as human population growth, on the health of terrestrial
and aquatic ecosysteMs. The course also examines biological conservation,
genetically modified organisms, renewable resource utilization, and
energy efficiency, and their roles in the transition to a sustainable
society. Mr. Hemmes.
Prerequisite: Biology 151 or permission of instructor.
208. Plant Structure and Diversity (1)
A study of the origins and diversification of plants. Problems to be
analyzed may include mechanical support, internal transport, mechanical
and biochemical defenses, life–histories, reproductive strategies,
and modes of speciation. Laboratories will include comparative study
of the divisions of plants and identification of locally common species
and families in the field. Mr. Pregnall or Mr. Schlessman.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
226. Animal Structure and Diversity (1)
The structures and functions of animals are compared, analyzed, and
interpreted in a phylogenetic context. Emphasis is placed on the unique
innovations and common solutions evolved by different taxonomic groups
to solve problems related to feeding, mobility, respiration, and reproduction.
Laboratory work centers on the comparative study of the anatomy of species
representative of the major animal phyla. The department.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
228. Animal Physiology (1)
A comparative examination of the diversity of approaches animals use
to move, respire, eat, reproduce, sense, and regulate their internal
environments. The physiological principles governing these processes
will be developed in lecture and applied in the laboratory. Mr. Long
or Mr. Mehaffey.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
232. Developmental Biology (1)
The study of embryonic development including gametogenesis, fertilization,
growth, and differentiation. Molecular concepts of gene regulation and
cell interactions are emphasized. The laboratory emphasizes classical
embryology and modern experimental techniques. Mr. Straus.
Two 75–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
238. Principles of Genetics (1)
Principles of genetics and methods of genetic analysis at the molecular,
cellular, and organismal levels. Emphasis is placed on classical genetic
experiments, as well as modern investigative techniques such as recombinant
DNA technology, gene therapy, genetic testing, and the use of transgenic
plants and animals. Laboratory work includes experiments on prokaryotes
and eukaryotes. Ms. Damer or Ms. Pokrywka.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
241. Ecology (1)
Population growth, species interaction, and community patterns and
processes of species or groups of species are discussed. The course
emphasizes these interactions within the framework of evolutionary theory.
Local habitats and organisms are used as examples of how organisms are
distributed in space, how populations grow, why species are adapted
to their habitats, how species interact, and how communities change.
Field laboratories at Vassar Farm and other localities emphasize the
formulation of answerable questions and methods to test hypotheses.
Mr. Fritz or Ms. Ronsheim.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour field laboratory.
272. Biochemistry (1)
(Same as Chemistry 272) Basic course covering protein structure and
synthesis, enzyme action, bio–energetic principles, electron transport
and oxidative phosphorylation, selected metabolic pathways in prokaryotic
and eukaryotic cells. Mr. Jemiolo, Mr. Straus, or Mr. Eberhardt
(Chemistry).
Prerequisite: Chemistry 244.
Three 50–minute periods; one 4–hour laboratory.
290. Field Work (1/2 or 1)
298. Independent Work (1/2 or 1)
Execution and analysis of a field, laboratory, or library study. The
project, to be arranged with an individual instructor, is expected to
have a substantial paper as its final product.
Permission of instructor is required.
III. Advanced
2 units of 200–level biology are prerequisites for entry into
300–level courses; see each course for specific courses required
or exceptions.
303. Senior Research (1)
Critical analysis, usually through observation or experimentation,
of a specific research problem in biology. A student electing this course
must first gain, by submission of a written research proposal, the support
of a member of the biology faculty with whom to work out details of
a research protocol. The formal research proposal, a final paper, and
presentation of results are required parts of the course. A second faculty
member will participate both in the planning of the research and in
final evaluation.
Permission of instructor is required.
316. Neurobiology (1)
An examination of nervous system function at the cellular level. The
course emphasizes the physical and chemical foundations of intercellular
communication, integration and processing of information, and principles
of neural development. Laboratory includes demonstrations of biophysical
methodology and experimental approaches to the study of nerve cells.
Mr. Mehaffey or Ms. Susman.
Prerequisites: 2 units of 200–level biology or 1 unit of 200–level
biology and either Psychology 241 or Biopsychology 201. Recommended:
Biology 228, 272.
323. Cell Biology (1)
Investigations with a biochemical emphasis into the dynamics of the
eukaryotic cell. Topics include the cell cycle, membrane trafficking,
cytoskeleton, and cell signaling. Ms. Damer or Ms. Pokrywka.
Prerequisite: Biology 272.
324. Molecular Biology (1)
(Same as Chemistry 324) An examination of the macromolecular processes
underlying storage, transfer, and expression of genetic information.
Topics include the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA; mutation
and repair; the chemistry of RNA and protein synthesis; the regulation
of gene expression; cancer and oncogenes; the molecular basis of cell
differentiation; and genetic engineering. Mr. Jemiolo.
Prerequisites: one of the following: Biology 205, 238, or 272.
340. Animal Behavior (1)
Examination of the relationship between behavior and the individual
animal's survival and reproductive success in its natural environment.
Evolutionary, physiological, and developmental aspects of orientation,
communication, habitat selection, foraging, reproductive tactics, and
social behavior are considered. Methodology and experimental design
will be considered in lectures, but will be given particular emphasis
in the laboratory component of the course. Mr. Hemmes or Mr. Suter.
Prerequisites: 2 units of 200–level biology or 1 unit each of
200–level biology and psychology; recommended: Biology 226, 228,
238, or Psychology 200.
350. Evolutionary Biology (1)
Study of the history of evolutionary thought, mechanisms of evolutionary
change, and controversies in the study of organic evolution. Topics
include the origin and maintenance of genetic variability, natural selection,
adaptation, origin of species, macroevolution, co–evolution, and
human evolution. Mr. Hemmes or Mr. Schlessman.
Prerequisites: any two of Biology 208, 226, or 241; or permission of
the instructor.
354. Plant–Animal Interactions (1)
An examination of the predominant interactions between plants and animals
that influence their ecology and evolution. The course focuses on the
kinds of interactions (herbivory, mutualism, pollination, seed dispersal,
etc.), the costs and benefits of interactions, the ecological contexts
that favor certain types of species interactions (environmental stability,
competition, and predation intensity), and the evolution (natural selection
models and co–evolution) of interactions. Primary literature and
case histories are regularly discussed while the theory that explains
the evolution and ecology of interactions is explored. The laboratory
includes individual and group independent projects that permit observation
and experimentation with plant–animal interactions. Mr. Fritz.
Prerequisite: Biology 241 or permission of instructor.
356. Aquatic Ecology (1)
A consideration of freshwater, estuarine, and marine habitats that
examine material and energy fluxes through aquatic systems; physiological
aspects of plant production; the biogeochemical cycling of nutrients;
adaptations of organisms to physical and chemical aspects of the aquatic
environment; and biological processes that structure selected communities.
Mr. Pregnall.
[370. Immunology] (1)
An examination of the immune response at the cellular and molecular
levels. Topics include the structure, function, and synthesis of antibodies;
transplantation and tumor immunology; immune tolerance; allergic responses;
and immune deficiency diseases. Mechanisms for recognition; communication;
and cooperation between different classes of lymphocytes in producing
these various responses are stressed, as are the genetic basis of immunity
and the cellular definition of "self'' which makes each individual
unique. Ms. Norrod.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 244 or permission of instructor; Biology 238,
272 recommended.
Not offered in 2001/02.
382. Conservation Biology (1)
(Same as Environmental Studies 382) Conservation Biology is a new science
that has developed in response to the biological diversity crisis. The
goals of conservation biology are to understand human impacts on biodiversity
and to develop practical approaches for mitigating them. This course
is designed to provide and up-to-date synthesis of the multiple disciplines
of conservation biology, with particular emphasis on applied ecology
and evolutionary biology. Topics may include kinds of biological diversity,
genetics of small populations, population viability analysis, systematics
and endangered species, pests and invasions, habitat fragmentation,
reserve design, management plans for ecosystems and species, and restoration
ecology. Mr. Schlessman
Prerequisites: 2 units of 200-level Biology, preferably from 206, 208,
238, or 241; or permission of the instructor.
Two 2–hour periods.
399. Senior Independent Work (1/2 or 1)
Execution and analysis of a field, laboratory, or library study. The
project, to be arranged with an individual instructor, is expected to
have a substantial paper as its final product.
Permission of instructor is required.
IV. Graduate
400. Thesis (1)
416. Neurobiology (1)
423. Cell Biology (1)
424. Molecular Biology (1)
440. Animal Behavior (1)
450. Evolutionary Biology (1)
454. Plant–Animal Interactions (1)
456. Aquatic Ecology (1)
470. Immunology (1)