Biology

Read and discuss the book that still shakes up the world. In this seminar course, we read Darwin's Origin of Species alongside historical and contemporary scholarly and popular literature on evolution. Along the way, we explore scientific and social aspects of the reception of evolution in the past and present.

This course will serve as an introduction to the science of human nutrition and the relationship of food and nutrients to health and disease. Topics covered will include the macro- and micronutrients, digestion of food, and current recommendations for nutrient intake. Also discussed will be current scientific literature on the role of nutrition in selected disease processes and the use of foods as medicines.

What sorts of patterns do we expect to find in biology? When molecules are diffusing randomly through a cell, and when are they being moved around actively? What are the main forces governing protein folding? We'll apply a small number of fundamental physical models to a broad range of biological problems. You'll explore your own interests through a significant independent project.

Restoration ecology is a practical, optimistic science working to reverse biodiversity loss. Students will examine how ecological theory supports restoration practice and explore intersections with social justice, including ethical use of traditional ecological knowledge. Students will gain hands-on experience in restoration through field trips, invasive species control, and biodiversity monitoring.

An in-depth study of the structures and functions of human cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and digestive systems. Each system is covered at the molecular, cellular, organ and organism levels. Labs include physiology experiments, research projects and hands-on studies of human anatomy. Offered Fall Semester.

A look into the behavior, ecology and evolution of birds. Provides students with theoretical and hands-on experiences with birds. The first half of the semester integrates lectures and laboratory exercises to expose you to topics such as the origin and evolution of birds, avian anatomy, avian behavior, reproductive strategies, among other things. Second half of semester constitutes an intensive field experience, with early morning field trips, stressing bird identification and natural history of birds.

This course covers the physiological bases of neural communication, addiction, psychiatric disorders, sex and eating. During this course, students work in groups to try to replicate the findings of a published research article. Offered every fall.

An introduction to the evolutionary and ecological processes that promote the diversity of animal behaviors found in nature. Topics include development of behavior, biological rhythms, the evolution of foraging behavior, reproductive behavior, mating systems, parental care and social behavior. Students design and conduct their own behavioral study.

A discussion-based course investigating the impacts humans have on biodiversity and measures used to mitigate them. Conservation biology is an interdisciplinary, value-laden, crisis-driven discipline. Topics include conservation law, ethics, and ecological economics; species extinction, rarity and their causes; population viability analyses and practices; designing, establishing, managing and restoring protected areas; and sustainable human development. A non-lab course.

Note: Conservation Biology may also be taught as a 4-credit course, which includes a project focused on using public community science data to support biodiversity conservation. 

BIOL/CS 383 introduces students to key concepts in the field of bioinformatics. Students work in cross-discipline pairs to process real genomic data sets. Students learn about types of DNA sequencing, analysis and visualization software (Qiime2 and R), building and running complex scientific workflows.

Climate change has profound ecological consequences for life on earth. This course explores the implications of climate change across levels of biological organization from organisms through populations, communities, and ecosystems. Students will apply ecological theory to understand climate change responses, and will consider intersections with biodiversity conservation and environmental justice.

Note: Climate Change Ecology may also be taught as a 4-credit course, which includes a laboratory. 

A study of processes, structures and functions unique to plant cells. Topics may include specialized organelles and cell types, carbohydrate metabolism, signal transduction, genomics, and fertilization and early development. Emphasis on photosynthesis and other responses to light. Includes reading and presenting research. Biology-Chemistry interdepartmental majors note: If BIOL 226 is selected from the course options in list A, a course other than Plant Cell Biology must be chosen to fulfill the requirements for the Major. Offered once every three semesters.

A study of the general biology of the parasitic protozoans, helminths and arthropods of humans and domestic animals. Detailed discussions of parasite pathology, physiology, life cycles, diagnosis, therapeutics, control strategies and total impact on global health (humans and domestic animals). Lab includes visualization of representative taxa, morphology, culturing methods, applied diagnostics, parasite genomics and modern molecular techniques.

Students will explore RNA in great depth. Topics include RNA viruses, RNAs involved in gene editing, RNA-based
disease, and RNA-vaccines. The laboratory will create RNA to study the activity of an RNA-binding enzyme.

This course will include travel from Earlham to various field sites. Students will camp and learn natural history as well as conduct an intensive research project.

Majors must successfully complete comprehensive examinations in the Spring Semester of the Senior year.