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.

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.

Identification, pathogenesis, epidemiology, treatment, and prevention of medically important microorganisms. The biology of clinically relevant bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites is presented in relation to disease progress and host defense mechanisms. Clinical correlations that indicate microbes are causative agents of disease are emphasized. The laboratory introduces techniques for identification of pathogenic microorganisms to reinforce and expand the theoretical content. Lab.

Identification, pathogenesis, epidemiology, treatment, and prevention of medically important microorganisms. The biology of clinically relevant bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites is presented in relation to disease progress and host defense mechanisms. Clinical correlations that indicate microbes are causative agents of disease are emphasized. The laboratory introduces techniques for identification of pathogenic microorganisms to reinforce and expand the theoretical content. Lab.