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Courses

Related Courses

This page contains content from the 2008–09 academic year. For current information, visit the Harvard Extension School website at www.extension.harvard.edu.

Biological Sciences

Core Courses

Special Topics

Graduate Level

BIOS E-1a Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology (13096) (Website) (Printable version)
William Fixsen, PhD, Senior Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: undergraduate credit $950.
Fall term: Mondays, Wednesdays beginning Sept. 15, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Hall B.
Class meets 7:35-10:35 pm during laboratory weeks.

BIOS E-1a and BIOS E-1b provide a one-year introduction to modern biology that fulfills medical school requirements. During some weeks, students attend a laboratory instead of a lecture. BIOS E-1a focuses on the general principles of cellular biology. Topics include the structure of cells, the distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, enzymes and cellular metabolism, and the general principles of modern genetics. BIOS E-1b examines the general concepts of organismic biology. Topics include embryology and development, anatomy and physiology, and evolution. Prerequisites for BIOS E-1a: high school mathematics, chemistry, and biology; although CHEM E-1a and E-1b, or their equivalents, are not required, they are strongly recommended. Prerequisite for BIOS E-1b: BIOS E-1a, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-1b Introduction to Organismic and Evolutionary Biology (22957) (Website) (Printable version)
William Fixsen, PhD, Senior Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: undergraduate credit $950.
Spring term: Mondays, Wednesdays beginning Jan. 26, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Hall B.
Class meets 7:35-10:35 pm during laboratory weeks.

BIOS E-1a and BIOS E-1b provide a one-year introduction to modern biology that fulfills medical school requirements. During some weeks, students attend a laboratory instead of a lecture. BIOS E-1a focuses on the general principles of cellular biology. Topics include the structure of cells, the distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, enzymes and cellular metabolism, and the general principles of modern genetics. BIOS E-1b examines the general concepts of organismic biology. Topics include embryology and development, anatomy and physiology, and evolution. Prerequisites for BIOS E-1a: high school mathematics, chemistry, and biology; although CHEM E-1a and E-1b, or their equivalents, are not required, they are strongly recommended. Prerequisite for BIOS E-1b: BIOS E-1a, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

Core Courses

BIOS E-10 Biochemistry (13095) (Website) (Printable version)
Tara Mann, PhD, Preceptor in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Mondays beginning Sept. 15, 5:30-7:30 pm, Science Center, Hall B. Optional sections for undergraduate-credit students, required sections for graduate-credit students to be arranged.

This course provides an overview of the main aspects of biochemistry by relating molecular interactions to their effects on the organism as a whole, especially as related to human biology. The organization of macromolecules is addressed through a discussion of their hierarchical structure, and a study of their assembly into complexes responsible for specific biological processes. Topics addressing protein function include enzyme kinetics, the characterization of major metabolic pathways, and their interconnection into tightly regulated networks. Current laboratory techniques are covered in discussions of human metabolic disorders. Prerequisites: introductory biology and chemistry. (4 credits)

BIOS E-12 Principles and Techniques of Molecular Biology (22965) (Website) (Printable version)
Alain Viel, PhD, Senior Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: undergraduate credit $950, graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Spring term: Tuesdays beginning Jan. 27, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Hall E. Required labs on five Thursdays, 7:35-9:35 pm.

Students gain in-depth knowledge of nucleic acid structure, molecular genetics, and the biochemistry of transcription and protein synthesis. Working from this foundation, students explore mechanisms of gene regulation in prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses. The roles played by gene regulation and rearrangement in retroviral pathogenesis and in embryonic development are also examined. One large project comprises three linked laboratory exercises that introduce students to important recombinant DNA and protein expression techniques. Students learn about the construction of an expression plasmid and assays for normal promoter function. Prerequisite: BIOS E-1a, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-14 Principles of Genetics (22962) (Website) (Printable version)
Frederick R. Bieber, PhD, Associate Professor of Pathology, Harvard Medical School.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Mondays beginning Jan. 26, 5:30-7:30 pm, Harvard Hall, Room 201. Required sections for graduate-credit students Mondays, 7:35-8:35 pm.

This is a general course in genetics providing a broad view of gene action from the molecular to the population levels, with emphasis on eukaryotes. Topics include bacterial and viral genetics, Mendelian genetics, mutation and DNA repair, forensic DNA technology, chromosome structure and function, genomics, and population and evolutionary genetics. Prerequisites: MATH E-8, BIOS E-1a and E-1b, and CHEM E-1a and E-1b, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-16/W Cell Biology (22958) (Website) (Printable version)
Teresa Venezia Bowman, PhD, Research Fellow in Pediatrics, Hematology/Oncology Division, Children's Hospital Boston.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Tuesdays beginning Jan. 27, 5:30-7:30 pm, Science Center, Hall E. Required sections Tuesdays, 7:35-8:35 pm.

This course cultivates an understanding of eukaryotic cellular and subcellular structure, with close attention to structure/function relationships that govern cellular processes at the molecular level. We examine the differences between several eukaryotic model systems, including fission and budding yeast, slime mold, plants, and mammalian cells in culture. We further discuss the specific experimental techniques amenable to the study of cell biology in each system and how discoveries made using model organisms have influenced modern cell biology. Prerequisite: BIOS E-1a, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-18 Evolutionary Biology (13208) (Website) (Printable version)
Evan Lau, PhD, Preceptor in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Mondays beginning Sept. 15, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Room 110. Required sections for graduate-credit students Mondays, 6:30-7:30 pm.

How do you classify similar organisms which share common ancestry and determine the evolutionary relationships between them? This course looks at the history of evolutionary thought and how the evolution of various lineages have been studied, the mechanisms of evolution and the outcomes, the impact of modern molecular systematics on biological classification, and our understanding of the evolution of life on Earth. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a and BIOS E-1b, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-25 Comparative Functional Anatomy of the Vertebrates (13178) (Syllabus) (Printable version)
Karel F. Liem, PhD, Henry Bryant Bigelow Professor of Ichthyology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: undergraduate credit $950, graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Fall term: Mondays, Wednesdays beginning Sept. 15, 5:30-7:30 pm, Museum of Comparative Zoology, Room 101.

This course is an introduction to vertebrate evolution, development, and function. Structure, function, and evolutionary patterns of each major organ system are discussed. Even though this course prepares every student for further studies in biology, it is essential for students interested in the health sciences. Some lecture material is accompanied by laboratories offered six times during the semester. Prerequisite: BIOS E-1b, or the equivalent, or AP biology, or consent of the instructor. (4 credits)

BIOS E-40 Introduction to Proteomics (13099) (Website) (Printable version)
Alain Viel, PhD, Senior Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Tuesdays beginning Sept. 16, 5:30-7:30 pm, Science Center, Hall E. Required sections for credit students only to be arranged.

The completion of several genome projects, including the Human Genome Project, has further fostered a systems-based approach to biology. The goal is to determine how all the genes in a genome act and how their products interact to produce a functional organism. Proteomics seeks to identify and to characterize all the proteins synthesized in a cell or a tissue. Based on this information, one can then try to understand how individual proteins or protein collectives function within an organism. The first half of the course focuses on current methodology used to analyze and identify proteins. This includes protein electrophoresis, chromatography, mass spectrometry, and protein database analysis. The second half of the course focuses on case studies derived from the current scientific literature. This includes comparisons between healthy and diseased tissues, new approaches to analyze metabolic pathways, and the comprehensive analysis of protein-protein interactions in different cell types. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a, or the equivalent; BIOS E-12 recommended. (4 credits)

BIOS E-45 Introduction to Genomics (23031) (Website) (Printable version)
Joel Jacobs, PhD, Preceptor in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Thursdays beginning Jan. 29, 7:35-9:35 pm, Sever Hall, Room 102. Required sections Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 pm.

The availability of whole genome sequences allows questions about gene function, expression, regulation, and evolution to be addressed on an unprecedented scale. This course covers the technology used to generate sequence information, the techniques used to exploit it, and their application to a wide variety of biological questions. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a and E-1b, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-50 Neurobiology (13097) (Website) (Printable version)
Shawn Murphy, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School.
Course tuition: noncredit and undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Wednesdays beginning Sept. 17, 5:30-7:30 pm, Science Center, Hall C. Optional sections for graduate-credit students Wednesdays, 7:35-8:35 pm.
Online and on-campus options. See Distance Education. Lecture 1 video.

This course is an introduction to the organization and function of the nervous system. Topics covered include cell biology of neurons, physiology of excitable membranes and electrical signaling, neurotransmitters and neuropeptides, sensory systems, motor systems, developmental neurobiology, simple circuits, and behavior. We discuss the basis of neurodegenerative and neuropsychological disease. Prerequisite: introductory biology, or permission of the instructor. (4 credits)

BIOS E-55 Developmental Biology (22959) (Syllabus) (Printable version)
Rebecca Wingert, PhD, Instructor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Wednesdays beginning Jan. 28, 5:30-7:30 pm, Sever Hall, Room 113. Optional sections for undergraduate-credit students, required sections for graduate-credit students Wednesdays, 7:35-8:35 pm.

Medicine has been and continues to be influenced by a basic understanding of developmental biology. How does a complex, multicellular organism arise from a single cell? What is known about the mechanisms that accomplish this feat? This course aims to provide a broad, comprehensive look at embryology, focusing on both classical experiments and modern molecular and genetic techniques. We explore the basic body plan of the embryo and how organs are formed, with special emphasis on vertebrate models. The role of both embryonic and adult stem cells is also considered, as well as the phenomenon of regeneration. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a and E-1b, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-60a Immunology I (13104) (Website) (Printable version)
Jeffrey Lyczak, PhD, Director of Microbiology and Immunology, Nucryst Pharmaceuticals.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Tuesdays beginning Sept. 16, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Hall D. Required sections for graduate-credit students Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 pm.

This course presents an overview of the immune system and focuses on providing the student with a solid background in modern molecular and cellular immunology. The course covers the molecules of the immune system, including antibodies, T-cell receptors, and major histocompatibility locus-encoded proteins and cytokines; the genes encoding these molecules; the cells of the immune system and their interactions; and the biological functions of the immune system and its regulation. Prerequisite: background in biology, biochemistry, and genetics; cell biology, molecular genetics recommended. (4 credits)

BIOS E-60b Immunology II (22963) (Website) (Printable version)
Jeffrey Lyczak, PhD, Director of Microbiology and Immunology, Nucryst Pharmaceuticals.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Mondays beginning Jan. 26, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Hall E. Required sections for graduate-credit students Mondays, 6:30-7:30 pm.

This course applies the concepts outlined in BIOS E-60a to the specific study of the interaction of the host immune system with pathogenic microorganisms, tumors, and host tissues. Pathogenic mechanisms of infectious diseases and the use of vaccines and immunotherapy in prevention and treatment are covered. Tumor immunology, immune system deficiency states, AIDS, and immune system overreactivity toward the host are explored as parameters for the function and dysfunction of the immune system. Prerequisite: background in biology, biochemistry, and BIOS E-60a, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-65a Human Physiology I: Neural, Cardiovascular, Pulmonary, Sensory, and Neonatal Systems (13183) (Syllabus) (Printable version)
Debra Kirby, PhD.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Saturdays beginning Sept. 20, 9-11 am, Science Center, Hall A. Optional sections Saturdays, 11 am-noon.

BIOS E-65a and BIOS E-65b examine basic human physiology from an integrated function and a health and disease perspective. The relationships between normal function and disease are examined; the impact of history and physiological research on medicine and physiology is discussed. No laboratory included. Courses may be taken in reverse order. Prerequisites: introductory biology and general chemistry. (4 credits)

BIOS E-65b Human Physiology II: Neural, Muscular, Renal, Reproductive, and Digestive Systems (23022) (Syllabus) (Printable version)
Debra Kirby, PhD.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Saturdays beginning Jan. 31, 9-11 am, Science Center, Hall A. Optional sections Saturdays, 11 am-noon.

BIOS E-65a and BIOS E-65b examine basic human physiology from an integrated function and a health and disease perspective. The relationships between normal function and disease are examined; the impact of history and physiological research on medicine and physiology is discussed. No laboratory is included. Courses may be taken in reverse order. Prerequisites: introductory biology and general chemistry. (4 credits)

BIOS E-70 Introduction to Epidemiology (13179) (Website) (Printable version)
Karin B. Michels, PhD, ScD, Associate Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School and Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Mondays beginning Sept. 15, 7:35-9:35 pm, Harvard Hall, Room 104.

How do you design a study to find out whether tofu consumption prevents heart disease? How do you decide whether or not to believe the latest news report on a miraculous cure for cancer? This course introduces the student to the basic principles and methods used in epidemiologic research. These include types of epidemiologic studies, choices in study design, measures of disease frequency and association, and sources of bias and error. Applications to public health and strategies for disease prevention are discussed. Students may not count both BIOS E-70 and E-105 toward a degree. Prerequisites: basic quantitative skills essential; familiarity with medical terminology helpful. (4 credits)

Special Topics

BIOS E-102 Newsworthy Topics in Contemporary Life Sciences (23074) (Website) (Printable version)
William J. Anderson, PhD, Lecturer on Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Tuesdays beginning Jan. 27, 7:35-9:35 pm, Harvard Hall, Room 102.

Scientists constantly make groundbreaking discoveries, some of which receive attention by the press. This course, designed for non-scientists, provides the scientific background to appreciate these reports more fully. We discuss three exciting topics in the life sciences: stem cells, cancer, and infectious diseases. (4 credits)

BIOS E-105 Medical Detectives (13101) (Website) (Printable version)
Karin B. Michels, PhD, ScD, Associate Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School and Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health.
Course tuition: noncredit and undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term
Online only, beginning Sept. 16. See Distance Education. Optional sections to be arranged. Lecture 1 video.

Why is there confusion in the scientific community as to whether butter or margarine is worse for your health? How do researchers find out whether cell phone use increases your risk for brain cancer? What is your risk of contracting diabetes? Discover how researchers draw on quantitative skills to detect causes of acute disease outbreaks and chronic diseases. This course introduces the techniques and methods for empirically based analyses, decisions, and actions in the context of current public health problems. Recent research findings are discussed. The recorded lectures are from the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences course Quantitative Reasoning 50. Students may not count both BIOS E-70 and E-105 toward a degree. Prerequisite: students must view sample online lectures before they register. (4 credits)

BIOS E-108 Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases (13098) (Syllabus) (Printable version)
Lucia Pastorino, PhD, Instructor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Thursdays beginning Sept. 18, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Hall A. Optional sections for undergraduate-credit students, required sections for graduate-credit students Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 pm.

Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease are becoming more and more common. Although very different from one another, these neurodegenerative diseases share common mechanisms and features that are linked or lead to neuronal death. This course focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that are at the basis of these neurodegenerative diseases and on their impact and relevance in clinical diagnosis and treatment. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a, E-12, and E-16/W. (4 credits)

BIOS E-115 Evolutionary Developmental Biology of Animals (13107) (Website) (Printable version)
Arkhat Abzhanov, PhD, Assistant Professor of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Tuesdays beginning Sept. 16, 7:35-9:35 pm, Biological Laboratories, Room 2062.

This course discusses how understanding mechanisms of animal developmental genetics helps to explain the scope and patterns of animal diversity. Particular emphasis is placed on major evolutionary transitions, the origin of innovations, and the contribution of evolutionary developmental biology to the current debates on evolution and human biology. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a and E-1b, or the equivalent, or permission of the instructor. (4 credits)

BIOS E-127 The Evolution of Microbes (13100) (Website) (Printable version)
Christopher J. Marx, PhD, Assistant Professor of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University. Celeste Peterson, PhD, Visiting Scientist in Systems Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Mondays beginning Sept. 15, 7:35-9:35 pm, Biological Laboratories, Room 1058.

This course examines microbial evolution through an integration of lectures and discussion of primary literature. We focus on a series of broad questions, drawing upon knowledge from laboratory-based studies of experimental microcosms and comparative studies of natural populations. Additionally, students design, conduct, and analyze evolution experiments using digital organisms. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a and E-1b, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-129 The Biology of Stem Cells and the Emerging Field of Regenerative Medicine (13180) (Website) (Printable version)
Rebecca Wingert, PhD, Instructor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Wednesdays beginning Sept. 17, 5:30-7:30 pm, Harvard Hall, Room 202. Optional sections for undergraduate-credit students, required sections for graduate-credit students Wednesdays, 7:35-8:35 pm.

What is a stem cell? What properties characterize it, and what roles do such cells provide in our bodies? Can stem cells be used to treat disease or accomplish the engineering of tissues and organs in laboratories? Many scientists hope that understanding the biology of stem cells will have profound impacts on the future of human medicine, namely that stem cells will be used to fulfill the promise and expectations of regenerative medicine, a burgeoning new field that seeks to treat numerous chronic diseases and improve the quality of human life by repairing or regenerating tissues and organs. This course examines the characteristics of stem cells across eukaryotic organisms, and discusses the molecular and genetic techniques used to study stem cells. We specifically examine the current understanding of hematopoietic, neural, mesenchymal, skin, gut, and germline stem cells in higher vertebrates. The topic of cancer stem cells is also explored. These examinations are complemented by discussions of the regenerative capabilities of other metazoans, ranging from planaria to newts and zebrafish, with the goal of comparing stem cell properties and behaviors between several species. Finally we discuss the current horizon of tissue engineering and cell-based therapies in the developing arena of regenerative medicine. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a, E-1b, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-150 The Biology of Cancer (23079) (Website) (Printable version)
Sarah Wojiski, PhD, Curriculum Fellow in Genetics, Harvard Medical School.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Wednesdays beginning Jan. 28, 7:35-9:35 pm, Science Center, Hall C.
Optional sections for undergraduate-credit students, required sections for graduate-credit students Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 pm.

The profound impact of cancer on our society has been the driving force behind major research advances in this field. A better understanding of the basic biology of cancer and its impact on the human body has led to more effective treatments, enhanced detection methods, and the development of prevention strategies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the biology and pathology of cancer. The first half of the course focuses on the genetic and molecular basis of cancer. We explore the role of mutations in cancer cells and how they lead to the dysregulation of essential biological properties such as programmed cell death, cell proliferation, and differentiation. The topic of cancer stem cells and their role in cancer maintenance is addressed. The second half of the course focuses on the interface of cancer and medicine. Classical treatment methods are compared with newer treatment modalities, such as targeted therapies. We also explore the challenges associated with diagnosing cancers, as well as ways to prevent cancer. The ever-expanding role of genomics and bioinformatics in areas such as tumor classification, prognosis, and treatment is discussed. Prerequisites: BIOS E-1a, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-162b Human Pathophysiology II (13103) (Website) (Printable version)
Nancy C. Long Sieber, PhD, Lecturer on Physiology, Harvard School of Public Health. Stephanie A. Shore, PhD, Senior Lecturer on Physiology, Harvard School of Public Health.
Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Mondays beginning Sept. 15, 5:30-7:30 pm, Kresge Building, Harvard School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Room G-1. Optional sections Mondays, 7:35-8:35 pm.

This course focuses on the pathophysiology of the human nervous, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and reproductive systems. Common mechanisms of pathogenesis are examined, including injury, autoimmunity, and neoplasia. These systems are linked by our focused examination of several conditions as they affect the body as a whole. We focus on autoimmune disorders and spinal cord injuries, as well as the consequences of obesity. Please note that Human Pathophysiology I, offered in alternate years, is not a prerequisite for this course. Prerequisite: a normal human or animal physiology course is recommended, but not required. (4 credits)

BIOS E-172 Biological Perspectives on HIV and AIDS (13181) (Website) (Printable version)
Robert A. Lue, PhD, Professor of the Practice of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit and undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Fall term: Wednesdays beginning Sept. 17, 5:30-7:30 pm, 1 Story Street, Room 304. Required sections Mondays, 6-7 pm.
Online and on-campus options. See Distance Education. Lecture 1 video.

Conservative estimates indicate that more than 50 million men, women, and children worldwide have been infected with HIV since the start of the epidemic. It is expected that the vast majority of these people will develop AIDS and become part of the most serious medical crisis in recorded history. This course examines the molecular biology of both the virus and the immune system that it destroys. The history of the disease is traced and compared to current theories of HIV transmission, clinical testing, and the potential for effective therapies and vaccines. The biology of the virus is related at each step to issues of public policy and human behavior. Prerequisite: BIOS E-1a, or the equivalent. (4 credits)

BIOS E-192 Principles and Practice of Clinical Research (23023)
(Printable version)

Course tuition: noncredit $450, undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term

*** BIOS E-192 has been CANCELED.***

Clinical research is critical to healthy communities, as it produces knowledge that helps us understand human disease, prevention and treatment of illness, and health promotion. This survey course examines the continuum of clinical research through its life cycle—from concept and protocol development through study execution. The ethical and regulatory challenges of today's clinical research and clinical trial enterprise are emphasized. Students gain an understanding of the regulatory environment, trends toward integrative and translational approaches, real-world challenges with recruitment and retention, vulnerable populations, study conduct and compliance, and related economic, political, and ethical issues. Through case study and contemporary media, this course weaves the topics of public trust, patient perceptions, community involvement, and research integrity as a common thread throughout the semester. Prerequisite: some clinical research or science background, either through coursework or work experience. (4 credits)

Graduate Level

BIOS E-200 Graduate Research Methods and Scholarly Writing in the Biological Sciences
Graduate proseminar. Course tuition: graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Students who do not have Harvard ID cards must purchase $100 special borrower's cards at Widener Library.

Fall term, section 1 (13091) (Website) (Printable version): Cheryl D. Vaughan, PhD, Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Tuesdays beginning Sept. 16, 7:35-9:35 pm, 51 Brattle Street, Room 219.

Fall term, section 2 (13092) (Website) (Printable version): Mihaela Gadjeva, PhD, Instructor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School.
Wednesdays beginning Sept. 17, 7:35-9:35 pm, Sever Hall, Room 211.

Fall term, section 3 (13093) (Syllabus) (Printable version): Matthew E. Smith, PhD, Postdoctoral Fellow in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University.
Thursdays beginning Sept. 18, 5:30-7:30 pm, Sever Hall, Room 107.

Spring term, section 1 (22951) (Website) (Printable version): Ernie Chang, PhD, Preceptor in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Mondays beginning Jan. 26, 5:30-7:30 pm, Sever Hall, Room 204.

Spring term, section 2 (22952) (Website) (Printable version): Meg Bentley, PhD, Instructor in Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School.
Tuesdays beginning Jan. 27, 5:30-7:30 pm, Sever Hall, Room 107.

Spring term, section 3 (22950) (Website) (Printable version): A. Thomas Torello, PhD, Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Wednesdays beginning Jan. 28, 5:30-7:30 pm, Science Center, Room 113.

This proseminar is designed to teach students many of the writing and analytical skills that are required to succeed in graduate-level courses in the biological sciences. Through critical reading and presentation of research articles, students learn how to form questions that can be addressed experimentally and how to write a corresponding, testable hypothesis. This course also addresses the process of experimental design and current experimental methodologies in biology. Students are given multiple opportunities to hone their writing skills on several short writing assignments and a final writing project due at the end of the semester. There are six sections, each focusing on a different topic. In the fall, section 1 explores chromatin structure and epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation, section 2 explores molecular mechanisms of immunity and inflammation, and section 3 focuses on the biology and ecology of fungi. In the spring, section 1 explores key proteins involved in, among others, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease and how these proteins contribute to disease progression, section 2 focuses on the cell cycle, and section 3 focuses on stem cells and cloning. Prerequisite: satisfactory score on the test of critical reading and writing skills; molecular biology (BIOS E-12, or the equivalent) highly recommended. (4 credits)

BIOS E-205 The Biology of Aging (22953)
(Printable version)

Graduate seminar. Course tuition: graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term

*** BIOS E-205 has been CANCELED.***

Aging is a fundamental and universal property of living systems. This seminar reviews diverse models of the aging process to better understand the biological mechanisms that underlie and bring about the expression of the aging phenotype. Topic coverage combines primary research on the biology of aging with the broader social implications of each development. Reading material is drawn primarily from current scientific journals as well as other sociological and popular sources. Students confront the molecular and physiological processes that underlie the aging process and how changes in longevity affect the social structure of society. Prerequisites: introductory biology required; molecular biology, cell biology, or immunology recommended. (4 credits)

BIOS E-210 The Physiology of Sleep (13184) (Website) (Printable version)
Steven A. Shea, PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School.
Graduate seminar. Course tuition: graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Fall term: Mondays beginning Sept. 15, 7:35-9:35 pm, Kresge Building, Harvard School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Room 204. Optional sections Mondays, 6:30-7:30 pm.
Students need proof of registration to be admitted to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

This seminar addresses the basis of biological rhythms, including circadian rhythms, and the technology, neurophysiology, physiology, psychology, pathology, and functions of sleep—particularly in humans. Prerequisites: introductory biology; advanced biology welcomed. (4 credits)

BIOS E-215 The Evolution of Protein Structure (22964) (Website) (Printable version)
Cheryl D. Vaughan, PhD, Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term: Thursdays beginning Jan. 29, 5:30-7:30 pm, Science Center, Room 216. Required sections Thursdays, 7:35-9:35 pm.

As studies in the life sciences become increasingly interdisciplinary, entirely new fields are emerging. The evolution of protein structure is one of those new fields, in which structural and evolutionary approaches are applied to existing databases to come up with new answers in biology. This course begins by introducing basic concepts and practice in the fields of molecular evolution and protein structure. Topics include constraints imposed upon the dynamics of evolution via protein interaction networks and the evolutionary processes that directly influence those networks (gene duplication and loss of interactions through mutation); phylogenetic predictions based on the sequences of conserved protein secondary structure domains; and protein structure predictions from genomic data. The course culminates in an analysis of a selected set of genes for which the structure of the protein product is known. Throughout, changes in the gene sequence and protein structure are analyzed across several species. Prerequisites: introductory biology (BIOS E-1a and BIOS E-1b, or the equivalent), one semester of organic chemistry (CHEM E-2a, or the equivalent), and basic computer literacy. (4 credits)

BIOS E-220 Fish Biology: Models in Design, Evolution, and Conservation (22955)
(Printable version)

Graduate seminar. Course tuition: graduate credit $1,725.
Spring term

*** BIOS E-220 has been CANCELED.***

This seminar discusses the functional design, reproductive patterns, and evolutionary radiations of fishes in the context of current evolutionary theory. The teleost fishes are unparalleled as models in functional biology. Fish ecology and behavior are discussed in relation to conservation biology. Prerequisite: introductory biology. (4 credits)

BIOS E-225 Human Impacts on Marine Communities (22956) (Website) (Printable version)
Robert M. Woollacott, PhD, Professor of Biology, Harvard University.
Graduate seminar. Course tuition: graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Spring term: Thursdays beginning Jan. 29, 5:30-7:30 pm, Sever Hall, Room 211.

How are anthropogenic-driven events impacting the structure and function of marine communities? In this seminar, we focus on the fragility and resilience of marine systems in the face of perturbations such as habitat fragmentation, elevated sea surface temperature, introduction of alien species, non-sustainable fishing practices, and increased global tourism. Prerequisite: one year of college-level biology. (4 credits)

BIOS E-230 The Neurobiology of Drug Addiction (23114) (Website) (Printable version)
Johanna L. Gutlerner, PhD, Instructor and Curriculum Fellow in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Harvard Medical School.
Graduate seminar. Course tuition: graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Spring term: Tuesdays beginning Jan. 27, 5:30-7:30 pm, Sever Hall, Room 111.

This seminar introduces students to the behavioral effects of drugs and to the animal models of drug addiction. Students study the molecular, cellular, and neurocircuitry modifications elicited by different classes of drugs, including opioids, cannabinoids, psychostimulants, nicotine, and ethanol. Reading material is drawn primarily from scientific journals. Prerequisites: introductory biology required; molecular biology, cell biology, or neurobiology recommended. (4 credits)

BIOS E-234 Principles of Human Disease: Cellular Metabolism (23029) (Website) (Printable version)
Thomas Michel, PhD, MD, Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. Robert A. Lue, PhD, Professor of the Practice of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University.
Course tuition: noncredit and undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Spring term
Online only, beginning Jan. 29. See Distance Education. Lecture 1 video.

This advanced course covers cellular and organismal metabolism, with focus on interrelationships between key metabolic pathways and human disease states. Topics include genetic and acquired metabolic diseases and functional consequences for specific organ systems. The recorded lectures are from the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences/Harvard Medical School course Molecular and Cellular Biology 234/Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology 234. Prerequisites: Solid foundation in introductory biochemistry, genetics, and cell biology required (BIOS E-10, E-14, and E-16/W, or the equivalent); one year of organic chemistry (CHEM E-2a and E-2b, or the equivalent). Students must view sample online lectures before they register. (4 credits)

BIOS E-235 Principles of Human Disease: Physiology and Pharmacology (13189) (Website) (Printable version)
David E. Golan, PhD, MD, Professor of Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology and Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. Alain Viel, PhD, Senior Lecturer on Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University. Julian L. Seifter, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School.
Course tuition: noncredit and undergraduate credit $800, graduate credit $1,725. Limited enrollment.
Fall term
Online only, beginning Sept. 16. See Distance Education. Optional sections to be arranged. Lecture 1 video.

This course uses lectures, critical readings, and clinical case scenarios to teach principles of human physiology, pathophysiology, and drug action. The basic mechanisms of organ function in health and disease are presented and analyzed, and strategies for designing drug-based therapeutic interventions are explored. The course is organized around seven exemplary areas of human physiology and disease mechanisms and the therapeutic strategies used to intervene in human disease pathways. The recorded lectures are from the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences/Harvard Medical School course Molecular and Cellular Biology 235/Biological Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology 235. Prerequisite: solid foundation in biochemistry, cell biology, and physiology required (BIOS E-10, E-16/W, and E-65a, or the equivalent). BIOS E-65a may be taken concurrently. Students must view sample online lectures before they register. (4 credits)