Fundamentals of Cellular Processes (240-0-1)

Instructors

Jenna Renee Christensen

Meeting Info

Technological Institute M164: Mon, Wed, Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM

Overview of class

All living organisms are composed of cells. Within a cell, an orchestra of processes must occur to support its growth, division, and eventual death. What are the components of a cell, and how are its components organized to effectively perform its critical functions? How have researchers discovered the parts of a cell, their roles, and how they coordinate to perform complex biological functions? In this class, we will examine the parts of a cell, how those parts work together to achieve cellular growth and propagation, and how scientists discovered these phenomena.

This course is designed to be an introduction to cell biology with a specific emphasis on scientific discovery and research-based approaches. Students will gain an understanding of key topics in cell biology, including organelle structure and function, cytoskeletal dynamics, cell cycle, cell division, and cell death. Students will gain experience reading primary literature and will learn about techniques used by researchers to make discoveries about cellular mechanisms. Finally, students will be able to use their understanding of cell biology techniques and experimental design to critically examine current research in the field and design their own experiments to test concepts in cell biology.

Registration Requirements

Students must have previously taken BIOL_SCI 239 or have taken BIOL_SCI 201-0 and have instructor recommendation from that course. Must be taken concurrently with BIOL_SCI 232-0.

Teaching Method

This course will employ a mix of lecture, discussion, and primary literature review to explore cellular components and functionality, as well as how cell biology phenomena were discovered.

Evaluation Method

Students will be evaluated based on a combination of participation in in-class activities and primary literature discussions, writing assignments, and exams.

Class Materials (Required)

Essential Cell Biology, Alberts 6th Edition ISBN: 978-1-324-03335-6

Other primary literature readings will be posted to Canvas and listed on the syllabus.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: BIOL SCI 239-0, co-requisite BIOL SCI 232-0.