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Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology

General Education: Natural Science 

Course Description:

This course is the first in the required sequence for Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology majors and is also applicable for other majors related to the biological sciences. We will begin with atomic structure before building up into the molecules that form the monomers and polymers that constitute life. We continue building up in scale throughout the semester as we explore cellular structures, gene expression, intracellular trafficking, bacteria and viruses, evolution, and cell-cell communication. Along the way, we will discuss the experiments that established DNA as the genetic material and other fundamental findings in cell and molecular biology. We will also highlight the contributions and experiences of current and historical scientists working on the topics about which we are learning.

This class uses a partially “flipped” structure, meaning that students are expected to acquire knowledge from readings and videos before coming to class. Class time is focused on problem solving, practice, and discussion with minimized lecture. Because of the fast pace of this course, a strong high school chemistry and biology background is recommended.