Undergraduate courses in Biology

Human genetic and cultural evolution and how people interact with their environments, from the ancestors of Australopithecus to current events. Issues include race, gender, and intelligence; pesticide and antibiotic resistance; abortion and contraception; ecosystem services; environmental economics and ethics; the evolution of religion; climate change; population growth and overconsumption; origins and spread of ideas and technologies; and the distribution of political and economic power. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Ehrlich, P)

BIO 2. Current Research Topics in Biology

Primarily for sophomores interested in majoring in Biology. Weekly seminars by faculty: molecular biology and genetics; theory and mathematics in biology; ecology, physiology, and the environment; molecular and cellular aspects of neurobiology, immunology, and developmental biology; biological chemistry; behavioral biology; and evolution. May be repeated for credit.

1 unit, Aut (Riepel, A), Win (Riepel, A)

BIO 6N. Climate Change: Drivers, Impacts, and Solutions

The scientific understanding of climate change, and the evidence, driving forces, and options for managing its impacts. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 11N. Biotechnology in Everyday Life

Preference to freshmen. The science that makes transgenic plants and animals possible. Current and future applications of biotechnology and the ethical issues raised. GER: DB-NatSci, DB-NatSci

3 units, not given this year

BIO 13N. Environmental Problems and Solutions

(F,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to freshmen. Students do independent investigations of current environmental problems, analyzing differing views of them and discussing possible solutions. Each student gives two seminar presentations and leads two seminar discussions. Short, documented position papers are written for policy makers. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Ehrlich, P)

BIO 14N. Plants and Civilization

(F,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to freshmen. The role of plants in the development of civilization. Topics: the use of forests, woodlands, and grazing lands; centers of origins and spread of crops; viticulture, and wine and beer making; the spice route and the age of exploration; the use of plants as medicine; the global spread of weeds; engineering plants for the future; the importance of tea, coffee, chocolate, sugar, potatoes, natural dyes, and rubber in societal affairs and change. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Win (Mooney, H)

BIO 15N. Environmental Literacy

(F,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to freshmen. Lack of public understanding of the details of most environmental problems is cited as a cause of environmental deterioration. Good citizenship requires literacy about the elements of the scientific and decision making processes that accompany most environmental issues: what can happen, what are the odds, how can the credibility of sources of expertise be assessed, which components of environmental debates deal with factual and theoretical issues, and which are political value judgments? GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Win (Schneider, S)

BIO 16N. Island Ecology

Preference to freshmen. How ecologists think about the world. Focus is on the Hawaiian Islands: origin, geology, climate, evolution and ecology of flora and fauna, and ecosystems. The reasons for the concentration of threatened and endangered species in Hawaii, the scientific basis for their protection and recovery. How knowledge of island ecosystems can contribute to ecology and conservation biology on continents. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 20. Introduction to Brain and Behavior

(Same as HUMBIO 21.) Evolutionary principles to understand how the brain regulates behavior, described in physiological terms, and is influenced by behavioral interactions. Topics include neuron structure and function, transmission of neural information, anatomy and physiology of sensory and motor systems, regulation of body states, the biological basis of learning and memory, and behavioral abnormalities. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Aut (Fernald, R), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 22N. Infection, Immunity, and Global Health

Preference to sophomores. The causes and prevention of infectious diseases, focusing on the interplay between pathogens and the immune system that determines the outcome of the disease. The basic principles of microbiology, immunology, and epidemiology. Diseases of the past and present including SARS, AIDS, TB, and malaria. The roles of biological, environmental, and societal factors in disease emergence, spread, and prevention. Primary scientific literature, student-led discussions, and research projects. Prerequisite: biology background, preferably introductory college biology at the level of 41 or 42, or HUMBIO 2A, 3A. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, not given this year

BIO 24N. From Bread to Genomics: Using Yeast to Study Biology

Preference to freshmen. The single-celled organism, Saccharomyces cerevisiae or baker's yeast, as a tool in experiments including winemaking, evolution, and cancer. Yeast biology; how yeast genetics is used to examine the properties of cells. Modern genomic techniques in yeast research such as DNA microarrays, high-throughput genetic analysis, protein-interaction studies, and proteomic analyses. Readings from primary scientific literature. Final paper. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, not given this year

BIO 25N. Biogeography of Disease

(F,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to freshmen. Geographic distribution of disease. Biotic interactions among vectors, hosts, and environment. Influence of climatic and environmental change on spread and virulence of disease. Human and animal diseases. Primary literature. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Aut (Hadly, E)

BIO 25Q. The Molecular Basis of Genetic Disease

(S,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to sophomores. Focus is on two genetic diseases resulting from the production of protein molecules that are unable to fold into their native conformations, called conformational diseases: cystic fibrosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease. Hypotheses and controversies surrounding the molecular basis of these disorders, and implications for novel therapeutics. Readings from research literature. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Kopito, R)

BIO 26N. Maintenance of the Genome

(F,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to freshmen. Focus is on DNA repair systems which scan the genome to ensure genomic stability in the face of natural endogenous threats to DNA and those due to radiation and chemicals in the external environment. Redundancy of the genetic message ensured by complementary DNA strands facilitates recovery of information when one of the strands is altered. Predisposition to cancer often implicates a defective DNA repair gene. Relevance for oncology, aging, developmental biology, environmental health, and neurobiology. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Hanawalt, P)

BIO 30. Frontiers in Marine Science

The diversity of marine environments and their inhabitants; physical ocenaography; near shore and pelagic ecology; adaptations to aquatic life and extreme conditions; and global change, conservation, and the effects of human activity. Field trip to Stanford's Hopkins Marine Station; taught by Hopkins faculty.

2 units, Aut (Denny, M; Micheli, F; Somero, G)

BIO 31Q. Ants: Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution

(S,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to sophomores. Behavior: the organization of colonies, how they operate without central control, how they resemble other complex systems like brains. Ecology: how populations of colonies change, comparing the ecology of a species in SW American desert and invasive Argentine ants. Evolution: why are there so many species of ants; how are they alike, how do they differ, and why? Ants as the theme for exploring how to do research in animal behavior, ecology, and evolution. Research project will be on the invasive Argentine ant: its distribution on campus, foraging trails, and nest structure.

3 units, Spr (Gordon, D)

BIO 33N. Conservation Science and Practice

(F,Sem) Stanford Introductory Seminar. Preference to freshmen. Interdisciplinary. The science and art of conservation today. The forces that are driving change in Earth's atmosphere, lands, waters, and variety of life forms. Which broad dimensions of the biosphere, and which elements of ecosystems, most merit protection? The prospects for, and challenges in, making conservation economically attractive and commonplace. Field trip; project. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Daily, G)

BIO 34N. Hunger

The biology of hunger and satiety, disease states that disrupt normal responses to hunger and satiety, starvation responses and adaptations to starvation in a variety of organisms, food production and distribution mechanisms, historic famines and their causes, the challenges of providing adequate food and energy for the Earth's growing population, local and global efforts to alleviate hunger, and hunger in fiction. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 36N. Physiology of Human Performance

Preference to freshmen. Laboratory-oriented. Students conduct studies on each other, and possibly on volunteers, involving physical activity and measurement of physiological variables before, during, and after physical activity. Focus is on the physiological systems underlying the capacity for physical activity and on the limits to increasing strength, power output, and endurance. Strenuous physical activity required. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 41. Genetics, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology

First of a three part sequence, preferably taken in the sophomore year. Emphasis is on macromolecules (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids) and how their structure relates to function and higher order assembly; molecular biology, genome structure and dynamics, gene expression from transcription to translation. Biology majors must take course for a letter grade. Prerequisites: CHEM 31X (or 31A and B), 33, 35; MATH 19, 20, 21, or 41, 42. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, Aut (Simoni, R; Bergmann, D)

BIO 42. Cell Biology and Animal Physiology

Second of a three part sequence, preferably taken in the sophomore year. Cell structure and function; principles of animal physiology (immunology, renal, cardiovascular, sensory, motor physiology, and endocrinology); neurobiology from cellular basis to neural regulation of physiology. Biology majors must take course for a letter grade. Prerequisites: CHEM 31X (or 31A and B), 33, 35; MATH 19, 20, 21, or 41, 42. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, Win (Cyert, M; Jones, P; Heller, C; Sapolsky, R)

BIO 43. Plant Biology, Evolution, and Ecology

Third of a three part sequence, preferably taken in the sophomore year. Principles of evolution: macro- and microevolution and population genetics. Ecology: the principles underlying the exchanges of mass and energy between organisms and their environments; population, community, and ecosystem ecology; populations, evolution, and global change. Equivalent to BIOHOPK 43. Biology majors must take course for a letter grade. Prerequisites: CHEM 31X (or 31A and B), 33, 35; MATH 19, 20, 21, or 41, 42. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, Spr (Petrov, D; Gordon, D; Mudgett, M)

BIO 44X. Core Experimental Laboratory

Two quarters of lab projects provide a working familiarity with the concepts, organisms, and techniques of modern biological research. Emphasis is on experimental design, analysis of data, and written and oral presentation of the experiments. Lab fee. Prerequisites: CHEM 31X, or 31A,B, and 33. Recommended: statistics, and concurrent enrollment in Biology or Human Biology core; 44X,Y should be taken sequentially in same year. 44Y equivalent to BIOHOPK 44Y.

4 units, Win (Malladi, S)

BIO 44Y. Core Experimental Laboratory

4 units, Spr (Malladi, S)

BIO 96A. Jasper Ridge Docent Training

Two quarter preparation for Stanford and community students to join the Jasper Ridge education program. Multidisciplinary environmental education; hands-on field research. Field ecology and the natural history of plants and animals, archaeology, geology, hydrology, land management, and research projects of the preserve presented by faculty, local experts, and staff. Participants lead research-focused educational tours, assist with classes, and attend continuing education classes available to members of the JRBP community after the course.

4 units, Win (Dirzo, R; Wilber, C)

BIO 96B. Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve Docent Training Program

4 units, Spr (Dirzo, R; Wilber, C)

BIO 101. Ecology

The principles of ecology. Topics: interactions of organisms with their environment, dynamics of populations, species interactions, structure and dynamics of ecological communities, biodiversity. Prerequisite: 43, or consent of instructor. Recommended: statistics. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Aut (Dirzo, R; Vitousek, P)

BIO 102. Demography: Health, Development, Environment

(Same as HUMBIO 119.) Demographic methods and their application to understanding and projecting changes in human infant, child, and adult mortality and health, fertility, population, sex ratios, and demographic transitions. Progress in human development, capabilities, and freedoms. Relationships between population and environment. Prerequisites: numeracy and basic statistics; Biology or Human Biology core; or consent of instructor. GER:DB-SocSci

3 units, Spr (Tuljapurkar, S)

BIO 104. Advanced Molecular Biology

(Same as BIO 200.) Molecular mechanisms that govern the replication, recombination, and expression of eukaryotic genomes. Topics: DNA replication, DNA recombination, gene transcription, RNA splicing, regulation of gene expression, protein synthesis, and protein folding. Prerequisite: Biology core. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, Win (Frydman, J; Gozani, O)

BIO 106. Human Origins

(Same as ANTHRO 6, ANTHRO 206, HUMBIO 6.) The human fossil record from the first non-human primates in the late Cretaceous or early Paleocene, 80-65 million years ago, to the anatomically modern people in the late Pleistocene, between 100,000 to 50,000 B.C.E. Emphasis is on broad evolutionary trends and the natural selective forces behind them. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, Win (Klein, R)

BIO 109A. The Human Genome and Disease

(Same as BIO 209A, HUMBIO 158.) The variability of the human genome and the role of genomic information in research, drug discovery, and human health. Concepts and interpretations of genomic markers in medical research and real life applications. Human genomes in diverse populations. Original contributions from thought leaders in academia and industry and interaction between students and guest lecturers. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Win (Heller, R)

BIO 109B. The Human Genome and Disease: Genetic Diversity and Personalized Medicine

(Same as BIO 209B.) Continuation of 109A/209A. Genetic drift: the path of human predecessors out of Africa to Europe and then either through Asia to Australia or through northern Russia to Alaska down to the W. Coast of the Americas. Support for this idea through the histocompatibility genes and genetic sequences that predispose people to diseases. Guest lectures from academia and pharmaceutical companies. Prerequisite: Biology or Human Biology core. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Heller, R)

BIO 112. Human Physiology

(Same as BIO 212, HUMBIO 133.) The functioning of organ systems emphasizing mechanisms of control and regulation. Topics: structure and function of endocrine and central nervous systems, cardiovascular physiology, respiration, salt and water balance, exercise, and gastrointestinal physiology. Prerequisite: Biology or Human Biology core. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Win (Garza, D)

BIO 113. Fundamentals of Molecular Evolution

(Same as BIO 244.) The inference of key molecular evolutionary processes from DNA and protein sequences. Topics include random genetic drift, coalescent models, effects and tests of natural selection, combined effects of linkage and natural selection, codon bias and genome evolution. Prerequisites: Biology core or graduate standing in any department, and consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, not given this year

BIO 114. Field Course on Tropical Biogeochemistry: Amazon as Case Study

(Same as EARTHSYS 114.) Post-field seminar for students who went on the two-week field trip to the Amazon in September with Brazilian students under Professor Martinelli of the University of São Paulo and Stanford Latin American Studies. Land use changes over the last 30 years including the conversion of natural forest for cattle ranching and soy beans in the Amazon, the largest continuous area of tropical forests on Earth with the greatest number of plant and animal species. In English.

3 units, not given this year

BIO 117. Biology and Global Change

(Same as EARTHSYS 111.) The biological causes and consequences of anthropogenic and natural changes in the atmosphere, oceans, and terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. Topics: glacial cycles and marine circulation, greenhouse gases and climate change, tropical deforestation and species extinctions, and human population growth and resource use. Prerequisite: Biology or Human Biology core or graduate standing. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Win (Vitousek, P; Arrigo, K)

BIO 118. Genetic Analysis of Biological Processes

(Same as BIO 218.) Genetic principles and their experimental applications. Emphasis is on the identification and use of mutations to study cellular function. Prerequisite: Biology core. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, Spr (Staff)

BIO 121. Biogeography

Global distributions of organisms through the Phanerozoic, with emphasis on historical causes. Topics: plate tectonics, island biogeography, climatic change, dispersal, vicariance, ecology of invasions, extinction, gradients, diversity. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Hadly, E), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 125. Ecosystems of California

The diversity and functioning of California ecosystems through time and how human beings have impacted and managed them. Prerequisite: 43, HUMBIO 2A, or EARTHSYS 10. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Mooney, H)

BIO 129A. Cellular Dynamics I: Cell Motility and Adhesion

Cell motility emphasizing role of actin assembly and dynamics coupling actin organization to cell movement. Interaction of cells with extracellular matrix, and remodelling of extracellular matrix in development and disease. Directed cell migration by chemotaxis (neuronal path-finding, immune cells). Cell-cell adhesion, formation of intercellular junctions and mechanisms regulating cell-cell interactions in development and diseases. Emphasis is on experimental logic, methods, problem solving, and interpretation of results. Students present research papers. Prerequisite: Biology core. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, not given this year

BIO 129B. Cellular Dynamics II: Building a Cell

Principles of cell organization; how common biochemical pathways are modified to generate diversity in cell structure and function. Roles of actin and microtubule cytoskeletons in cellular architecture. Mechanisms of protein sorting and trafficking, and protein modules and switches in regulating cell polarity. Yeast to polarized epithelial cells and neurons. Emphasis is on experimental logic, methods, problem solving, and interpretation of results. Students present research papers. Prerequisite: Biology core. Recommended: 129A. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, not given this year

BIO 130. Current Issues in Paleoanthropology

(Same as ANTHRO 162C, ANTHRO 262C.) Current issues in fossil, archaeological, and genetic evidence for human evolution. Topics chosen by participants. May be repeated for credit.

1 unit, Aut (DeGusta, D), Win (DeGusta, D), Spr (DeGusta, D)

BIO 132. Advanced Imaging Lab in Biophysics

(Same as BIO 232, BIOPHYS 232, MCP 232.) Laboratory and lectures. Advanced microscopy and imaging, emphasizing hands-on experience with state-of-the-art techniques. Students construct and operate working apparatus. Topics include microscope optics, Koehler illumination, contrast-generating mechanisms (bright/dark field, fluorescence, phase contrast, differential interference contrast), and resolution limits. Laboratory topics vary by year, but include single-molecule fluorescence, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, confocal microscopy, two-photon microscopy, and optical trapping. Limited enrollment. Recommended: basic physics, Biology core or equivalent, and consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Spr (Block, S; Schnitzer, M; Smith, S; Stearns, T)

BIO 133. Genetics of Prokaryotes

Genetic approaches for understanding cellular processes in bacteria, including metabolism, adaptive and stress responses, signal transduction, gene expression, genetic exchange and recombination, chromosome dynamics and evolution, cell division, motility, surface attachment, and developmental responses. Emphasis is on the power of effectively combining genetics with biochemistry, microscopy, and genomics. Prerequisite: Biology core. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Aut (Burkholder, W; Campbell, A), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 134. Replication of DNA

Seminar. Modes of DNA replication and their control in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Structures, properties, and functions of DNA polymerases and associated factors. Emphasis is on experimental approaches and their limitations. Current research literature. Students prepare journal club style report and lead class discussions. Enrollment limited to 20 advanced undergraduates. Prerequisite: Biology core. Recommended: 118. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Win (Burkholder, W)

BIO 135. Biological Clocks

(Same as HUMBIO 186.) The biological basis for endogenous timekeeping in organisms from flies to human beings. How biological clocks are constructed at the molecular, tissue, and behavioral levels; how these clocks interact with other physiological systems and allow animals to anticipate changes in their environment. Applications of circadian rhythm principles to treating human disorders and diseases such as cancer. Prerequisite: Biology or Human Biology core, or consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, not given this year

BIO 136. Evolutionary Paleobiology

A paleontological approach to evolutionary theory. Topics: history of life, speciation, heterochrony, evolutionary constraint, coevolution, macroevolution, the Cambrian Explosion, mass extinctions, taphonomy, life on land, life in the sea, life in the air. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, not given this year

BIO 137. Plant Genetics

(Same as BIO 237.) Gene analysis, mutagenesis, transposable elements; developmental genetics of flowering and embryo development; biochemical genetics of plant metabolism; scientific and societal lessons from transgenic plants. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

3-4 units, Spr (Walbot, V)

BIO 139. Biology of Birds

How birds interact with their environments and each other, emphasizing studies that had impact in the fields of population biology, community ecology, and evolution. Local bird communities. Emphasis is on field research. Enrollment limited to 20. Prerequisites: 43 or equivalent, and consent of instructor. Recommended: birding experience. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Root, T), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 140. Population Biology of Butterflies

Field work on Euphydryas populations under study on campus and elsewhere in California. Course offered as participation in research when conditions permit; decisions not made until Winter Quarter. Prerequisites: 43 and consent of instructor.

2-5 units, not given this year

BIO 141. Biostatistics

(Same as STATS 141.) Introductory statistical methods for biological data: describing data (numerical and graphical summaries); introduction to probability; and statistical inference (hypothesis tests and confidence intervals). Intermediate statistical methods: comparing groups (analysis of variance); analyzing associations (linear and logistic regression); and methods for categorical data (contingency tables and odds ratio). Course content integrated with statistical computing in R. See http://www-stat.stanford.edu/~rag/stat141/. GER:DB-Math

4-5 units, Aut (Boik, J; Rogosa, D)

BIO 143. Evolution

(Same as BIO 243.) The basic facts and principles of the evolution of all life. The logic of and evidence for the correctness of Darwin's argument for evolution by natural selection. How Mendelian genetics was integrated into evolutionary thinking. The integration of physiological and ecological perspectives into the study of evolutionary adaptation within species. Species formation and evolutionary divergence among species. Patterns of evolution over long time scales. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Aut (Watt, W)

BIO 144. Conservation Biology

(Same as HUMBIO 112.) Principles and application of the science of preserving biological diversity. Topics: sources of endangerment of diversity; the Endangered Species Act; conservation concepts and techniques at the population, community, and landscape levels; reserve design and management; conflict mediation. 4 units if taken with a service learning component. Prerequisite: BIO 101, or BIO 43 or HUMBIO 2A with consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

3-4 units, Win (Boggs, C; Launer, A)

BIO 145. Behavioral Ecology

(Same as BIO 245.) Animal behavior from an evolutionary and ecological perspective. Topics: foraging, territoriality, reproductive behavior, social groups. Lecture/seminar format; seminars include discussion of journal articles. Independent research projects. Prerequisites: Biology or Human Biology core, or consent of instructor. Recommended: statistics. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 146. Population Studies

Series of talks by distinguished speakers introducing approaches to population and resource studies.

1 unit, Win (Tuljapurkar, S)

BIO 147. Controlling Climate Change in the 21st Century

(Same as BIO 247, EARTHSYS 147, EARTHSYS 247, HUMBIO 116.) Global climate change science, impacts, and response strategies. Topics: scientific understanding of the climate system; modeling future climate change; global and regional climate impacts and vulnerability; mitigation and adaptation approaches; the international climate policy challenge; and decarbonization of energy and transportation systems. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Win (Schneider, S; Mastrandrea, M), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 149. The Neurobiology of Sleep

(Same as BIO 249, HUMBIO 161.) (Graduate students register for 249.) Preference to seniors and graduate students. The neurochemistry and neurophysiology of changes in brain activity and conscious awareness associated with changes in the sleep/wake state. Behavioral and neurobiological phenomena including sleep regulation, sleep homeostasis, circadian rhythms, sleep disorders, sleep function, and the molecular biology of sleep. Enrollment limited to 16. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Win (Heller, C)

BIO 150. Human Behavioral Biology

(Same as BIO 250, HUMBIO 160.) Multidisciplinary. How to approach complex normal and abnormal behaviors through biology. How to integrate disciplines including sociobiology, ethology, neuroscience, and endocrinology to examine behaviors such as aggression, sexual behavior, language use, and mental illness. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 151. Mechanisms of Neuron Death

For Biology majors with background in neuroscience. Cell and molecular biology of neuron death during neurological disease. Topics: the amyloid diseases (Alzheimer's), prion diseases (kuru and Creutzfeldt-Jakob), oxygen radical diseases (Parkinson's and ALS), triplet repeat diseases (Huntington's), and AIDS-related dementia. Student presentations. Enrollment limited to 15; application required. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Aut (Sapolsky, R)

BIO 152. Imaging: Biological Light Microscopy

(Same as MCP 222, NBIO 222.) Survey of instruments which use light and other radiation for analysis of cells in biological and medical research. Topics: basic light microscopy through confocal fluorescence and video/digital image processing. Lectures on physical principles; involves partial assembly and extensive use of lab instruments. Lab. Prerequisites: some college physics, Biology core. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 153. Cellular Neuroscience: Cell Signaling and Behavior

(Same as PSYCH 120.) Neural interactions underlying behavior. Prerequisites: PSYCH 1 or basic biology. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, not given this year

BIO 154. Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology

(Same as BIO 254, NBIO 254.) For advanced undergraduates and graduate students. Cellular and molecular mechanisms in the organization and functions of the nervous system. Topics: wiring of the neuronal circuit, synapse structure and synaptic transmission, signal transduction in the nervous system, sensory systems, molecular basis of behavior including learning and memory, molecular pathogenesis of neurological diseases. Prerequisite for undergraduates: Biology core or equivalent, or consent of instructors. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Aut (Luo, L; Shen, K; Clandinin, T), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 157. Plant Biochemistry

(Same as BIO 257.) The biochemistry of plants relevant to their physiology and cell biology. Topics include: the biosynthesis, assembly, function, and regulation of cell walls; lipids; pigments; photoreceptors; transporters; and the response of plants to pathogens and stresses. Prerequisite: Biology core or equivalent, or consent of instructors. GER: DB-NatSci

3-4 units, Spr (Mudgett, M), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 158. Developmental Neurobiology

For advanced undergraduates and coterminal students. The principles of nervous system development from the molecular control of patterning, cell-cell interactions, and trophic factors to the level of neural systems and the role of experience in influencing brain structure and function. Topics: neural induction and patterning cell lineage, neurogenesis, neuronal migration, axonal pathfinding, synapse elimination, the role of activity, critical periods, and the development of behavior. Prerequisite: BIO 42 or equivalent. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Spr (McConnell, S; Shen, K; Garner, C), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 160A. Developmental Biology and Signal Transduction I

Focus is on the molecular mechanisms underlying the generation of diverse cell types and tissues during embryonic and post-embryonic animal development. The role of cell-cell communication in controlling key developmental decisions. Embryonic axis formation, cell fate specification, regulation of tissue and animal size, tissue regeneration, and the evolution of developmental mechanisms. Experimental logic and methods of research in developmental biology. Discussions of research papers. Prerequisite: Biology core or consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Win (Simon, M)

BIO 160B. Developmental Biology and Signal Transduction II

Continuation of BIO 160A. Focus is on the molecular mechanisms underlying the generation of diverse cell types and tissues during embryonic and post-embryonic animal development. The role of cell-cell communication in controlling key developmental decisions. Embryonic axis formation, cell fate specification, regulation of tissue and animal size, tissue regeneration, and the evolution of developmental mechanisms. Experimental logic and methods of research in developmental biology. Discussions of research papers. Prerequisites: Biology Core and BIO 160A, or consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Spr (Simon, M)

BIO 161. Molecular Basis of Biological Communication

Across molecular, cellular, organismal and communal biological scales, communication among elements of a system is required for its function. The molecules and logic at the heart of communication at levels from the interactions between cells in a developing body to how organisms perceive and respond to their physical environment and the organisms around them; how these systems normally work and how failures in communication result in and from disease. Current research literature. Prerequisites: BIO 41, 42. Recommended: BIO 160A, 129A.

4 units, Spr (Bergmann, D), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 163. Neural Systems and Behavior

(Same as BIO 263, HUMBIO 163.) The field of neuroethology and its vertebrate and invertebrate model systems. Research-oriented. Readings include reviews and original papers. How animal brains compare; how neural circuits are adapted to species-typical behavior; and how the sensory worlds of different species represent the world. Prerequisites: BIO 42, HUMBIO 4A, or equivalents. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 164. Biosphere-Atmosphere Interactions

(Same as BIO 264.) Physiological, ecological, and physical aspects of ecosystem function, emphasizing how ecosystems influence and are influenced by the atmosphere. Prerequisites: 42, 43; or consent of instructor. GER: DB-NatSci

4 units, Win (Field, C; Berry, J), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 165. Cellular and Molecular Therapeutic Approaches to Neurological Disorders

(Same as BIO 265.) Current therapeutic research for neurological conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, neurodegenerative disorders, depression, anxiety, and aging. Sources include primary literature. Guest lecturers.

1 unit, Win (Sorrells, S)

BIO 166. Fanual Analysis: Animal Remains for the Archaeologist

(Same as ANTHRO 113, ANTHRO 213, BIO 266.) The analysis of fossil animal bones and shells to illuminate the behavior and ecology of prehistoric collectors, especially ancient humans. Theoretical and methodoloigcal issues. The identification, counting, and measuring of fossil bones and shells. Labs. Methods of numerical analysis.

5 units, Spr (Klein, R)

BIO 175. Tropical Ecology and Conservation

Field trip to a field station at Los Tuxtlas, Mexico; lectures at Stanford. How to address scientific questions concerning ecology and conservation. Field trip includes natural history observations and group research projects. Symposium based on project results. Recommended: 43, 101, and 141 or STATS 60. GER: DB-NatSci

5 units, Spr (Dirzo, R)

BIO 177. Plant/Microbe Interactions

(Same as BIO 277.) Plant pathology and plant symbiosis.Topics include: prokaryotic and eukaryotic pathogens; molecular, genetic, and cellular basis for microbial pathogenicity and host defense; genetics and cell biology of nitrogen-fixing symbiosis and for mycorrhizal associations. Evolutionary context. Prerequisites: Biology core and two or more upper division courses in genetics, molecular biology, or biochemistry. Recommended: plant genetics or plant biochemistry.

3 units, alternate years, not given this year

BIO 178. Microbiology Literature

(Same as BIO 278.) Critical reading of the research literature in prokaryotic genetics and molecular biology. For advanced undergraduates and first or second year graduate students. Classic and foundational papers in microbiology and molecular biology; more recent literature on prokaryotic biochemistry, genomics, pathogenesis, and cell biology. Prerequisites: Biology Core and two upper-division courses in genetics, molecular biology, or biochemistry.

3 units, Win (Long, S)

BIO 180. Fundamentals of Sustainable Agriculture

(Same as BIO 280, EARTHSYS 180, EARTHSYS 280.) Ecological, economic, and social dimensions of sustainable agriculture in the context of a growing world population. Focus is on management and technological approaches, and historical content of agricultural growth and change, organic agriculture, soil and water resource management, nutrient and pest management, biotechnology, ecosystem services, and climate change. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Naylor, R), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 183. Theoretical Population Genetics

(Same as BIO 283.) Models in population genetics and evolution. Selection, random drift, gene linkage, migration, and inbreeding, and their influence on the evolution of gene frequencies and chromosome structure. Models are related to DNA sequence evolution. Prerequisites: calculus and linear algebra, or consent of instructor.

3 units, not given this year

BIO 185. Evolution of Reproductive Social Behavior

(Same as BIO 285.) Seminar. Controversies surounding theory and data for the evolution of sex, gender, and sexuality. Issues include the critique of Darwin's theory of sexual selection, and the accuracy of the metaphor of universal selfishness and sexual conflict in biological nature. Readings include Evolution's Rainbow and The Genial Gene, and primary literature. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Aut (Roughgarden, J), alternate years, not given next year

BIO 188. Biochemistry I

(Same as BIO 288, CHEMENG 181, CHEMENG 281, CHEM 181.) (CHEMENG offerings formerly listed as 188/288.) Chemistry of major families of biomolecules including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, lipids, and cofactors. Structural and mechanistic analysis of properties of proteins including molecular recognition, catalysis, signal transduction, membrane transport, and harvesting of energy from light. Molecular evolution. Prerequisites: CHEM 135 or 171. GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Win (Zare, R; Altman, D)

BIO 189. Biochemistry II

(Same as BIO 289, CHEMENG 183, CHEMENG 283, CHEM 183.) (CHEMENG offerings formerly listed as 189/289.) Metabolism. Glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, citric acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, pentose phosphate pathway, glycogen metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, protein degradation and amino acid catabolism, protein translation and amino acid biosynthesis, nucleotide biosynthesis, DNA replication, recombination and repair, lipid and steroid biosynthesis. Medical consequences of impaired metabolism. Therapeutic intervention of metabolism. Prerequisite: BIO 188/288 or CHEM 181 or CHEMENG 181/281 (formerly 188/288). GER: DB-NatSci

3 units, Spr (Dunn, A)

BIO 191. Research in Bird Biology

Semi-independent field research in ornithology emphasizing ecological relationships. Projects involve research, planned and carried out by the student in consultation with the instructor. Results are written in publication format. Enrollment limited. Prerequisites: 43, concurrent or subsequent enrollment in 139, and consent of instructor.

1-4 units, Win (Root, T), Spr (Root, T)

BIO 193. Undergraduate Journal Club

Weekly discussion, led by students and facilitated by faculty, for reading scientific literature and presenting papers. Prerequisites: Biology core and consent of instructor. Recommended: 199 or 199X.

1 unit, not given this year

BIO 198. Directed Reading in Biology

Individually arranged under the supervision of members of the faculty.

1-15 units, Aut (Staff), Win (Staff), Spr (Staff), Sum (Staff)

BIO 198X. Out-of-Department Directed Reading

Individually arranged under the supervision of members of the faculty. Credit for work arranged with out-of-department faculty is restricted to Biology majors and requires department approval. See http://biohonors.stanford.edu for information and petitions. May be repeated for credit.

1-15 units, Aut (Staff), Win (Staff), Spr (Staff), Sum (Staff)

BIO 199. Advanced Research Laboratory in Experimental Biology

Individual research taken by arrangement with in-department instructors. See http://biohonors.stanford.edu for information on research sponsors, units, and credit for summer research. May be repeated for credit.

1-15 units, Aut (Staff), Win (Staff), Spr (Staff), Sum (Staff)

BIO 199X. Out-of-Department Advanced Research Laboratory in Experimental Biology

Individual research by arrangement with out-of-department instructors. Credit for 199X is restricted to declared Biology majors and requires department approval. See http://biohonors.stanford.edu for information on research sponsors, units, petitions, deadlines, credit for summer research, and out-of-Stanford research. May be repeated for credit.

1-15 units, Aut (Staff), Win (Staff), Spr (Staff), Sum (Staff)

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Stanford Bulletin, Archive 2008-09

Stanford Bulletin, Archive 2008-09

Alphabetical Index

Bulletin Archive

Undergraduate courses in Biology