Analysis of how the three-dimensional architecture of soluble and membrane proteins contributes to their biochemical function; methods for determining the structure of proteins; protein folding; protein targeting; mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Computer resources used for protein modeling and structural prediction. Prereq: BMCB 658 or BMCB 751 or permission.

Advanced research or scholarly projects developed and conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Provides the opportunity to apply advanced knowledge and techniques of the major to a specific problem or question. Permission required.

Independent research project under the direction of a faculty sponsor for seniors in biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology and in the Honors Program. Final product is a written thesis. One or two semesters. Permission required.

Societal and technological impact of the invisible microbial world on our lives and on the planet. Weekly extra-class activities enable students to use the scientific method of inquiry to explore topics like bacteria that use sunlight to live or use of bacteria in genetic engineering. Presents germs from different perspectives: as living organisms, as human enemies or friends, and as represented in newspapers or on TV. Especially useful for people with microphobia. No credit for BMS or Biology majors.