Introduces first-year students to the major and the field of biology and to the professional and academic resources available to students at Northeastern University; acquaints students with their faculty, advisors, and fellow students; provides an initial orientation to undergraduate research, cooperative education, and other experiential learning options; helps develop the academic skills necessary to succeed; provides grounding in the culture and values of the university community; and assists in interpersonal skill development—in short, familiarizes students with the resources and skills needed to become a successful university student.

BIOL

Biology at Northeastern

Introduces evolutionary principles, cellular structure and function, genetic transmission, energy pathways, and physiology. Covers current topics in biology and evaluates and discusses current scientific literature. Explores the interdisciplinary nature of biology. Offers students an opportunity to prepare for the topical inquiries in biology courses.

Foundations of Biology

Accompanies BIOL1107. Includes various lab experiments that emphasize evolutionary principles, cellular structure and function, genetic transmission, energy pathways, and physiology.

Lab for BIOL 1107

Explores basic principles of biology with a focus on those features shared by all living organisms and seen through the lens of evolutionary theory. Through lectures, readings and discussion, offers students an opportunity to understand how the scientific method has been and is used to address biological questions. Central topics include recent advances in cell anatomy and physiology, including the interplay between organelles, membrane transport, and cell-signaling; energy transfer through cells and through the biosphere; cellular reproduction and cancer; heredity and human genetic disorders; and protein synthesis and biotechnology. Explores the societal implications of such topics as biopharmaceuticals, ocean acidification, climate change, human diseases, epigenetics, cancer, and cloning.

General Biology 1

Accompanies BIOL 1111. Offers students an opportunity to collect quantitative data through hands-on experimentation as well as simulations. Data is analyzed statistically and presented in written form.

Lab for BIOL 1111

Continues BIOL 1111. Examines the evolution of structural and functional diversity of organisms; the integrative biology of multicellular organisms; and ecological relationships at the population, community, and ecosystem levels.

General Biology 2

Accompanies BIOL 1113. Covers topics from the course through various experiments.

Lab for BIOL 1113

Introduces the unseen world of microorganisms. Students analyze how the growth and behavior of this diverse group of organisms affect many aspects of human society including agriculture and food preparation; drug development and manufacture; liquid and solid waste management; genetic engineering; geochemical cycles; and health and disease.

Microbes and Society

Offers an overview of how biology weaves its way across a broad spectrum of complex societal issues. Introduces students to the biological mechanisms and processes responsible for genetic inheritance, energy transfer, evolution, and population dynamics, providing a framework within which students may critically interpret and discuss important biological information provided in public forums. Seeks to empower students to make informed choices at the policy and personal levels. Offers students an opportunity to acquire an understanding of the basic principles of biology and apply the scientific process to the analysis of contemporary issues. Using a thematic approach, covers a wide range of issues including the reemergence of plagues, biological weapons and security, the environment, and human health and wellness.

Biology and Society

Introduces the structure and function of the human body. Emphasizes the principles of biological and physical science as they relate to life processes in health and disease.

The Human Organism

Studies sexual and reproductive function in the human male and female, that is, sexual development, coitus, fertilization, pregnancy, birth, and lactation. Discusses the methods of controlling fertility and sexually transmitted diseases. Analyzes factors affecting reproduction and sexuality in human population.

Biology of Human Reproduction

Designed to familiarize students with the basic process of human genome editing, including an overview of emerging technologies that enable this process. Explores both sides of the ongoing ethical debate, including the potential benefits and limitations of human genome editing, and ramifications for this clinical practice on society. Introduces the methodology for genetic editing, a historical overview of the science and clinical practice of gene editing, and a synopsis of the current regulatory status. Discusses the ethical implications of the utilization of genome editing in humans. Offers students an opportunity to evaluate the utilization of genetic editing to eradicate genetically inherited diseases, the potential to create designer babies, and the socioeconomic impacts of gene editing.

Human Genome Editing: Science and Ethics

Introduces students to integrated human anatomy and physiology. Focuses on structure and function of cells and tissues. Presents the anatomy and physiology of skin, bones, muscles, blood, and the nervous system.

Integrated Anatomy and Physiology 1

Accompanies BIOL 2217. Covers topics from the course through various experiments.

Lab for BIOL 2217

Continues BIOL 2217. Presents the structure and function of the human endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, and digestive systems as well as the regulation of metabolism and body temperature.

Integrated Anatomy and Physiology 2

Accompanies BIOL 2219. Covers topics from the course through various experiments.

Lab for BIOL 2219

Focuses on how to identify, control, and live with bacteria and viruses. Emphasizes the mechanisms of disease production, natural host defense systems, and medical interventions.

Foundations of Microbiology

Accompanies BIOL 2221. Covers topics from the course through various experiments.

Lab for BIOL 2221

Focuses on the latest developments in the field. Offers students an opportunity to explore both scientific practice and progress through readings, discussion, and projects and to expand and deepen their understanding of fundamental biological principles.

Inquiries in Biological Sciences

Focuses on mechanisms of inheritance, gene-genome structure and function, and developmental genetics and evolution. Examples are drawn from the broad spectrum of plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Topics and analytical approaches include transmission genetics, molecular biology and gene regulation, DNA molecular methods, quantitative and population genetics, bioinformatics, genomics, and proteomics.

Genetics and Molecular Biology

Accompanies BIOL 2301. Reinforces and extends concepts presented and practiced in the accompanying lecture course through the application of scientific investigation methods and data analysis.

Lab for BIOL 2301

Offers an inquiry-based, intensive laboratory experience in which students have an opportunity to design and conduct independent research projects, applying approaches and techniques used in cell and molecular biology. Offers students an opportunity to present their results in professional formats.

Biology Project Lab

Examines the general biology, life cycles, modes of transmission, and pathogenesis of major parasites on global human health. Explores a number of important diseases, along with the diverse protozoans, worms, and arthropods responsible for them.

Human Parasitology

Offers students an opportunity to explore ethical issues arising from biological research and emerging technologies, to learn to identify and critically analyze potential ethical implications of biological research, and to evaluate theory-based arguments while respectfully engaging with a diversity of perspectives. Using their knowledge of basic cellular and molecular science as a foundation, students have an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the biology of genome editing and other molecular and cellular biology-based technologies. Examines the history and ethical dialogue around genome editing as an in-depth example of an emerging technology with wide-ranging applications. Studies additional technologies with respect to research progress, international perspectives, and potential implications in the areas of security, environmental protection, and personal health.

Bioethics

Examines the morphology and phylogeny of the vertebrates.

Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy

Introduces the cellular and molecular functioning of the nervous system, the organization of neurons into circuits, the processing of information, and the generation of motor output.

PSYC

Neurobiology

Examines selected topics in biology. Topics vary each semester. May be repeated without limit.

Bioethics in Genome Editing

Examines selected topics in cell and molecular biology. Topics vary each semester. May be repeated without limit.

Advanced Topics Genome Editing

Examines selected topics in organismal and population biology. Topics vary each semester. May be repeated without limit.

ST: Microbial Evolution

Examines selected topics in behavioral neuroscience. Topics vary each semester.

ST: Neurobio and Technology 

Introduces morphological, ecological, and biochemical consideration of representative groups of bacteria. Introduces virology and microbial genetics; host-parasite relationships, prokaryotes of medical significance; and physical and chemical controls of microbial growth.

ENGL

ENGW

Microbiology

Accompanies BIOL 3421. Covers topics from the course through various experiments.

Lab for BIOL 3421

Reviews major experimental approaches and key concepts used in behavioral neurobiology. Begins with a look at its history. Topics covered include spatial orientation and sensory guidance, neuronal control of motor output, neuronal processing of sensory information, sensorimotor integration, neuromodulation, circadian rhythms and biological clocks, behavioral physiology of large-scale navigation, neurobiology of communication, and cellular mechanisms of learning and memory.

Neural Systems and Behavior

Designed to familiarize students with fundamental principles in mammalian physiology. Emphasizes major organ systems integration. Where applicable, explores and uses human physiology to reinforce principles in physiology and build upon these principles by analyzing how major organ systems effectively network for proper organismal function. Initially covers the physiological principles of energy and metabolism in mammals, including human adaptation for basic energy requirements, and then delves into basics of membrane transport. Evaluates roles for organ systems integration in the respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hemopoietic, renal, and reproductive systems.

Mammalian Systems Physiology

Covers the cellular, molecular, and genetic processes that guide neural development. Focuses on how nerve cells are generated, patterned, and connected with one another to regulate animal behavior. Topics include cell differentiation, tissue patterning, neural plasticity, and cognitive development.

Developmental Neurobiology

Introduces current trends in the field of reproductive sciences, spanning basic human reproduction, infertility, and potential horizons in medicine. Surveys topics in basic research that have the most promise to make an impact in the field of women's health. Emphasizes human health but includes animal models in the analysis.

Current Trends in Reproductive Sciences

Covers structure and function of biomolecules, central concepts of bioenergetics and thermodynamics, enzyme kinetics and regulation, and metabolic pathways.

Biochemistry

Accompanies BIOL 3611. Covers topics from the course through various experiments.

Lab for BIOL 3611

Integrates and assesses the concepts and skills obtained from the entire biology curriculum, including experiential and classroom-based components. Requires reflection by students on their various educational experiences, extensive research of scientific questions related to these experiences, and development of an original research proposal. Offers students an opportunity to hone communication skills through formal and informal presentations, class discussion, and critique.

Biology Capstone

Introduces the neuroanatomical and cognitive sequelae of brain aging and neurodegenerative disease. Covers molecular and cellular processes that damage neurons, animal models, and brain imaging. Explores higher-level manifestations of damage to, for example, memory, language, and reward systems.

Neurobiology of Cognitive Decline

Integrates molecular biology and biochemistry in the cellular context. Focuses on the organization and function of eukaryotic cells, including the regulation of nuclear structure and gene expression, signal transduction, protein synthesis and growth, cellular energetics, the cytoskeleton and cell motility, cell division, and cell death. Emphasizes the scientific methodologies and approaches that underlie discovery in cell biology.

Cell and Molecular Biology

Explores the neurobiology of learning and memory from the level of the synapse up to the neural systems underlying emergent mnemonic function. Topics include the synaptic mechanisms underlying neural plasticity; the molecular basis of mnemonic processes; and the neural circuits serving distinct memory systems. In addition to lecture-based material, students utilize primary research and review articles from the current scientific literature to evaluate data and develop hypotheses via oral presentations and active discussions in the classroom. The overarching goal of the course is to provide a neurobiological perspective on how information is encoded, consolidated, and later retrieved and the significance of dysfunction in these processes associated with neurologic deficits and disease.

Neurobiology of Learning and Memory

Offers a capstone experience for biology majors who are concurrently registered for BIOL 4991 or BIOL 4994, in which they are conducting original research under the guidance of an approved mentor. Students conduct a literature search, write a research proposal, conduct the proposed research (in the context of the concurrent 4-SH research course), orally present the research, and produce a final research report. Requires students to reflect on and integrate their prior learning, participate in peer feedback, and revise their work in response to peer and instructor feedback.

Biology Research Capstone

Offers independent laboratory research work on a chosen topic under the direction of members of the department. Course content depends on instructor. May be repeated without limit.

Research

Offers a series of colloquia in biological research by invited experts on current topics. May be repeated without limit.

Biology Colloquium

Designed to familiarize students with core biological processes associated with fertilization and early embryogenesis in humans, with an emphasis on clinical relevance. Covers fundamental aspects of female fertility and embryo development, including hormonal control of ovarian follicle growth and ovulation, fertilization, preimplantation embryonic development, implantation, and postimplantation embryonic development through gastrulation. Examines current parameters for determining egg and embryo quality. Additionally, discusses evolving stem-cell-based strategies for the treatment of female reproductive failure.

Clinical Embryology

Explores the endocrine regulation of physiological systems, emphasizing current research. Lectures provide background, followed by analysis of primary literature and case studies. Topics include growth, reproduction, nutrient utilization, stress, and environmental endocrine disruption. Emphasizes humans but includes material on other animals, including invertebrates.

Endocrinology

Explores the biological basis of embryonic, adult, and induced pluripotent stem cells toward an understanding of their roles in development, homeostasis, and regeneration, as well as their therapeutic potential. The study of stem cells is a rapidly advancing area in biology and biomedicine. Although the biological basis of stem cells is a major focus, the course aims to put this knowledge into a biomedical context.

Stem Cells and Regeneration

Illustrates imaging principles and techniques and their application to biological problems. Topics vary and may include microscopic and macroscopic approaches in areas such as cellular and neurobiology, ecology, and biochemistry.

Biological Imaging

Provides an overview of the structure and function of genes, proteins, and cells involved in the generation of the immune response. Emphasis is on molecular immunology and immunogenetics.

Immunology

Presents a cellular approach to structure and function of the nervous system. Topics include neuronal anatomy, phylogeny of nervous systems, electrophysiology of membrane conductances, synaptic transmission, integration in nerve cells, neuronal networks, sensory systems, motor systems, sensory-motor integration, development and regeneration of neuronal connectivity, and fundamentals of neurotechnology for biomedics. Focuses on the development of these concepts from the primary research literature. A term project involves the design of a simple nervous system for a hypothetical animal.

Comparative Neurobiology

Intended for those familiar with the basics of genetics, molecular and cellular biology, and biochemistry, all of which are required to appreciate the beauty, power, and importance of modern genomic approaches. Introduces the latest sequencing methods, array technology, genomic databases, whole genome analysis, functional genomics, and more.

Advanced Genomics

Covers the recent scientific discoveries that have transformed our understanding of the process of aging. Examines in-depth the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms that control life span in model organisms, including yeast, worms, flies, and mice. Discusses dietary interventions and pharmacological approaches that extend the life span and delay the onset of age-related diseases. Covers potential applications of the new science of aging to improve human health. Requires students to read, discuss, present, and report on primary research papers from the literature.

Cell and Molecular Biology of Aging

Combines molecular biology, cell biology, pharmacology, and genetics to address the fundamental molecular properties of neurons and neuronal networks. At its core, the principles that govern the communication between cells of the nervous system are determined by their molecular components. The molecular landscape defines the individual properties of a neuron and the function of neuronal networks as a whole. Focuses on neuronal signaling through the function of ion channels and receptors, supramolecular mechanisms like synaptic transmission and axonal transport, and the molecular mechanisms that underlie biological networks and neural coding of information. Uses the fundamental understanding of molecular networks as a framework to explore the mechanisms that underlie neurological diseases and disorders. Discusses current treatments and therapies that rely on modulating neuronal signaling through molecular interactions.

Cell and Molecular Neuroscience

Describes the basic principles and the current promises and disappointments with immunotherapies of cancer. Provides a historical overview of the main barriers between tumors and antitumor killer cells. The unifying focus of the lectures is the role of immunological and physiological negative regulators, i.e., &#8220;brakes&#8221; of anti-tumor immune response. A significant part of the course is dedicated to the retrospective evaluation of the last three decades of the immunological and biochemical studies that culminated in identification of the &#8220;chief of tumor defense operations,&#8221; i.e., a hypoxia-adenosinergic pathway in the tumor microenvironment.

Immunotherapies of Cancer and Infectious Disease

Studies the field of human motor control, or motor neuroscience. Offers students an opportunity to obtain a fundamental understanding of the processes underlying the acquisition and control of sensorimotor behavior. The systems approach connects a variety of disciplines ranging from neurophysiology, to engineering, to neurorehabilitation. Reviews a selection of approaches with emphasis on motor learning. Focuses on early behavioral approaches, more recent neurophysiological and imaging approaches, and rehabilitation. Discusses selected representative papers, including seminal historical papers and more recent studies reflecting the current discussion in the field.

Multidisciplinary Approaches in Motor Control

Integrates biochemistry and molecular biology in the cellular context. Includes the organization and replication of genomes, principles and methods for genetic manipulation, the regulation of gene expression, and the structure and function of organelles. Emphasizes protein synthesis, including translation, post-translational modifications, and translocations of proteins within the cells and secretion.

Molecular Cell Biology for Biotechnology

Integrates biochemistry and molecular biology in the cellular context. Emphasizes the organization and replication of genomes, the regulation of gene expression, the structure and function of organelles, and the mechanisms of signal transduction.

Molecular Cell Biology

Discusses ethical issues relevant to research in the biological sciences. Requires student presentations.

Ethics in Biological Research

Offers experience in biology research in a faculty research laboratory. Intended only for students who have not yet chosen a lab in which to carry out dissertation/thesis work.

Biological Lab Rotation 1

Focuses on research methods and their application to a specific problem under the direction of a graduate faculty member. May be repeated without limit.

Offers the student the opportunity to conduct full-time research. May be repeated without limit.