Biology
BIOL 100X 4 Credits
Human Biology (n)
Introduction to scientific methodology and biological principles with a focus
on humans as biological organisms. Topics include organization of the human
body, human genetics, human development and the relationship between our bodies
and health. Includes lecture, discussion, lab and projects. Offered through
distance education each spring. Offered at the Northwest campus as demand warrants.
Note: Intended for non-science majors and those seeking preliminary instruction
before beginning study in health-related areas. (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 102 3 Credits
High Latitude Biology (n)
Major themes in modern biological sciences, using experiences and examples in Alaska and circumpolar regions. Exploration of one of six themes in sufficient detail to become aware of the knowledge frontier dividing the known from the undiscovered. Research term paper required. (3 + 0) Offered Summer, As Demand Warrants
BIOL 103X 4 Credits
Biology and Society (n)
Fundamental principles of biology; emphasis on their application to humans in the modern world. Lectures, laboratory demonstrations, experiments and discussions of contemporary biological topics. For non-science majors; cannot be used as a biology elective by biological science majors. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Offered every Fall at the Northwest Campus.) (3 + 3) Offered Fall, Spring
BIOL 104 3 Credits
BIOL 104X 4 Credits
Natural History of Alaska (n)
The physical environment peculiar to the North and important in determining the biological setting; major ecosystem concepts to develop an appreciation for land use and wildlife management problems in both terrestrial and aquatic situations. May not be used as biology elective credit for a major in biological science. BIOL 104X (4 credits) fulfills the Natural Science Core requirement. BIOL 104 (3 credits) is also available via Independent Learning. BIOL 104X laboratory fee: $50.00. (3 + 0 or 3 + 3) 104 Offered Fall, 104X Offered Spring
BIOL 105X 4 Credits
BIOL 106X 4 Credits
Fundamentals of Biology I and II (n)
Principles of biology for the science major. First semester: ecology, genetics, evolution, plant structure and function. Second semester: chemistry of life, introduction to cell structure and function, molecular biology, animal structure and function. Laboratory fee: $50.00. Students for whom this course is required for their major will be given preference when space is limited. (Prerequisites: High school algebra or equivalent and placement in ENGL 111X. Recommended: High school biology and chemistry, or permission of instructor.) (3 + 3) 105X Offered Fall, 106X Offered Spring
BIOL 111X 4 Credits
BIOL 112X 4 Credits
Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II (n)
Integrated view of human structure and function for students in pre-professional allied health programs, biology, physical education, psychology and art. BIOL 111X covers cells, tissues and organs, skeletal and muscle systems, the nervous system and integument. BIOL 112X examines circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, endocrine and reproductive systems. (Prerequisites: BIOL 111X for BIOL 112X. Recommended: High school biology, high school algebra, CHEM 105X-106X or CHEM 103X-104X, ENGL 111X.) (3 + 3) 111X Offered Fall, 112X Offered Spring
BIOL 135 3 Credits
The Third Kingdom: Mushrooms and other Fungi (n)
Introduction to fungi of the world with an emphasis on Alaska Arctic, Subarctic and Subantarctic environs. Designed to encourage more in-depth study, but is designed primarily for traditionally non-science orientations. Form, function, symbiosis, taxa, social, industrial and technological applications are emphasized. (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 150 3 Credits
Introduction to Marine Biology
Survey of marine organisms, evolution of marine life, habitats and communities of ocean zones, productivity and marine resources. For non-science majors; may not be used as biology elective credit for a major in biological science. Independent Learning Only
BIOL 179 2 Credits
Ornithology Field Research (n)
Field practicum (apprenticeship) in research techniques on the biology of birds and natural history interpretations, for non-majors. (Prerequisites: Permission of instructor.) (0 + 6) Offered As Demand Warrants
BIOL 233 3 Credits
Biology of the Non-Vascular Plants
Structure, function, comparative development, taxonomy, phylogeny and life histories of non-vascular cryptogams (blue greens, algae, fungi, lichens, mosses, liverworts and horn worts). (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X/106X. Next offered: 2005-06.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 239 4 Credits
Introduction to Plant Biology (n)
Plant biology including plant form and function (morphology, physiology and development), ecology (including interactions with herbivores, pollinators and microbes), conservation, evolution and economic botany. Emphasis on vascular plants (particularly angiosperms) but includes comparisons with nonvascular plants. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X.) (3 + 3) Offered Fall
BIOL 240 4 Credits
Beginnings in Microbiology
Fundamentals of microbiology. Survey of the microbial world, interactions between microbes and host, microbial human diseases, the environmental and economic impact of microorganisms. Provides background in basic and applied microbiology with emphasis on the role microorganisms play in human health and life. Material fee: $45. (Prerequisites: High school graduate or GED. Note: May not be used as a biology elective for a major in biological sciences.) (3 + 3) Offered As Demand Warrants
BIOL 271 4 Credits
Principles of Ecology (n)
Basic principles in physiological, ecosystem, population and community ecology. Environmental factors and their influence on plants and animals. Structure, growth and regulation of populations. The ecosystem concept, biogeochemical cycles, and the structure and function of major terrestrial biomes. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X.) (3 + 3) Offered Fall
BIOL 277 3 Credits
Introduction to Conservation Biology
(Cross-listed with NRM 277)
Introduction to the basic ecological, genetic, management, legal and historical developments in conservation biology. Focused efforts to manage biological diversity resources, with a status review of important habitats and endangered species. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 300W 3 Credits
Research Ethics
Introduction to the ethical values seen in scientific research and medicine. Presents important theories of values and ethics. Examines dilemmas of doctors, scientists and research administrators. Topics include: authorship, data alteration, animal and human experimentation, and whistle blowers. (Prerequisite: ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X or permission of instructor; and Junior standing.) (3 + 0) Offered Fall
BIOL 303 4 Credits
Principles of Metabolism and Biochemistry
Introduction to metabolism at the molecular level. Topics include structure and function of proteins, allostery and feedback, biological regulation and the major pathways of carbon and nitrogen metabolism. Presented in an evolutionary and ecological context. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X, CHEM 105X, 106X.) (3 + 3) Offered Fall
BIOL 305 5 Credits
Invertebrate Zoology (n)
Classification, structure, function, evolution and life histories of invertebrate animals. Laboratory fee: $125.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X, and 271. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 6) Offerd Alternate Fall
BIOL 310 4 Credits
Animal Physiology (n)
Animal function, including respiration, digestion, circulation, nerve and muscle function, hormones, and reproduction. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X, CHEM 105X, 106X.) (3 + 3) Offered Fall
BIOL 317 4 Credits
Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates (n)
Anatomy, phylogeny and evolution of the vertebrates. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X.) (2 + 6) Offered Spring
BIOL 328O 3 Credits
Biology of Marine Organisms (n)
Marine organisms: ocean as a habitat, distribution, classification, functional morphology and general biology of the major biological groups; man and the oceans. (Prerequisite: COMM 131X or 141X; and upper division standing in a biologically oriented major.) (3 + 0) Offered Spring
BIOL 331 4 Credits
Systematic Botany (n)
Classification of flowering plants with emphasis on Alaskan flora; taxonomic principles, classical and experimental methods of research. Preregistration is required to insure that each student will prepare a plant collection. (Prerequisite: BIOL 239 or permission of instructor. BIOL 362 recommended.) (2 + 6) Offered Spring
BIOL 334W 4 Credits
Structure and Function in Vascular Plants (n)
Morphology, anatomy and physiology of vascular plants, stressing the interrelationships between development, anatomy, growth, water relations, photosynthesis, transport and metabolism. (Prerequisites: BIOL 239, ENGL 111X; and ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 3) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 342 4 Credits
Microbiology (n)
Morphology and physiology of microorganisms. The role of these organisms in the environment and their relationship to humans. Concepts of immunology. Laboratory stresses aseptic techniques for handling microorganisms. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X, CHEM 105X.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 362 4 Credits
Principles of Genetics (n)
Principles of inheritance; physicochemical properties of genetic systems. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 388 3 Credits
Marine and Freshwater Fishes of Alaska (n)
(Cross-listed with FISH 388)
Biology of the marine and freshwater fishes of Alaska including their evolutionary relationships, biogeography, life-history, ecology, behavior and importance to people. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X and 106X or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 406 4 Credits
Entomology (n)
Biology of insects and related arthropods, with emphasis on anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology and evolution. Lab emphasizes identification. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X, 271. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 3) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 407 3 Credits
Aquatic Entomology
Ecology, taxonomy, anatomy, physiology and evolution of aquatic insects. Laboratories emphasize identification and field/laboratory techniques. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X and 271, or permission of instructor; BIOL 473 recommended. Next offered: 2004-05.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 417O 3 Credits
Neurobiology (n)
(Stacked with BIOL 617)
Organization and function of the vertebrate nervous system from the subcellular to the organismal levels. Neural bases of sensations, of specific behaviors and of homeostasis. Applications of basic neurobiological research to pathological conditions. Examples taken mostly from the recent vertebrate literature. (Prerequisite: BIOL 310 or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 418W 4 Credits
Developmental Biology (n)
(Cross-listed with CHEM 418W)
Morphological and molecular aspects of the development of multicellular organisms, with emphasis on the regulation of morphogenesis. Laboratory involves team-based research focusing on fundamental aspects of vertebrate embryo development. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X, 310, ENGL 111X, or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 3) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 422 3 Credits
Physiological Ecology of Overwintering
(Stacked with BIOL 623)
Investigation of the physiological and behavioral responses of animals and plants to winter in northern environments. Analysis of the biologically relevant environmental changes that accompany winter and comparison of alternative strategies that organisms use to cope with winter including: photoperiodism, acclimatization, arctic endurance, migration, hibernation, supercooling and freeze tolerance. Includes principles of thermoregulation, conductance and fattening. Includes field studies of overwintering of insects and amphibians. (Prerequisites: BIOL 310 or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2004-05.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 425 3 Credits
Mammalogy (n)
Variety of mammals, their behavior, life histories, identification, phylogeny and systematics, morphology, distribution and zoogeography. (Prerequisites: BIOL 317 or permission of instructor and junior standing or above.) (2 + 3) Offered Fall
BIOL 426W,O/2 3 Credits
Ornithology (n)
Evolution, anatomy, physiology, distribution, migration, breeding biology of birds, their classification and identification. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X-106X; COMM 131X or 141X; ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X; or permission of instructor.) (2 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 427W,O 4 Credits
Ichthyology (n)
(Cross-listed with FISH 427W,O)
Major groups of fishes, emphasizing fishes of northwestern North America. Classification structure, evolution, general biology and importance to man. (Prerequisites: BIOL 317; COMM 131X or 141X; ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X; or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 3) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 441W,O/2 3 Credits
Animal Behavior (n)
Genetic and physiological bases of behavior, evolutionary and ecological principles of individual and social behavior, sociobiology, and techniques of behavioral observation and analysis. (Prerequisites: BIOL 310, 271; COMM 131X or 141X; ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X; or permission of instructor.) (2 + 3) Offered Fall
BIOL 442W,O/2 4 Credits
Advanced Microbiology (n)
(Stacked with BIOL 642)
Diversity of microorganisms. Morphology, physiology and systematics of microorganisms, particularly bacteria. Emphasis on organisms of environmental or medical interest. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 342, CHEM 321; COMM 131X or 141X; ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 2113X; or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2004-05.) (2 + 6) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 443 3 Credits
Microbial Ecology (n)
Interactions of microorganisms with their environment, emphasizing microbial responses to the environment, microbial processes such as nutrient cycling and pollutant biodegradation, and microbial interactions with each other, with plants and with animals. (Prerequisite: BIOL 342 or BIOL 271 or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 444 3 Credits
Reproductive Biology
Comparative physiology, endocrinology, behavior and ecology of reproduction in mammals and birds. Hormonal control of reproductive function and behavior; seasonal rhythms, energetics, and life histories of reproduction. Although primarily comparative, aspects of human reproductive function and health covered. (Prerequisite: BIOL 111X, 112X, or 310. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 445 4 Credits
Molecular Evolution
(Stacked with BIOL 645 and CHEM 645 and cross-listed with CHEM 445)
Structure, function and evolution of hereditary molecules (nucleic acids). Laboratory fee: $100.00. (Prerequisite: BIOL 362.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 450W,O 3 Credits
Women and Science
The historical contributions and participation of women in science with an emphasis on the biological sciences. Discussion of the factors affecting female participation in the sciences and how participation of women in science affects the manner in which science is done. (Prerequisites: COMM 131X or 141X; ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X; junior standing in the natural sciences; or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2004–05.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 453O/2 4 Credits
Molecular Biology
(Stacked with BIOL 653 and CHEM 653 and cross-listed with CHEM 453O/2)
Provides in-depth coverage of eukaryotic and prokaryotic gene function, including the applications of recombinant DNA technology to the biological sciences. (Prerequisite: BIOL 362 or CHEM 321 or BIOL 303; COMM 131X or 141X; or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2004-05.) (3 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 458 3 Credits
Vertebrate Endocrinology (n)
(Cross-listed with WLF 458)
Introduction to the mechanisms of action and the roles of the main hormonal systems that operate in vertebrates. Hormone effects at the organ, tissue and (sub)cellular levels. Hormonal control of homeostatis and of specific behaviors. Examples to be taken mostly from recent comparative studies. (Prerequisite: BIOL 310 or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 461 4 Credits
Cell Biology (n)
(Stacked with BIOL 661 and CHEM 661 and cross-listed with CHEM 461)
Principles of structure and function of eucaryotic cells. Molecular and cellular aspects of internal organization of cells and their integration in a multicellular community including cytoskeleton, energetics, vesicular traffic, signaling, cell division cycle, DNA replication and transcription, protein translation, adhesion, cancer and cell death. Laboratory involves team-based research to address fundamental aspects of cell biology. (Prerequisites: BIOL 362 or concurrent enrollment, CHEM 321 or concurrent enrollment, or permission of instructor.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 465 3 Credits
Immunology (n)
Adaptive immune response including its components and activation from cells to molecules, clonal selection, antigen recognition and discrimination between foreign and self. Concepts applied on the level of intact organisms addressing allergies, autoimmunity, transplantation, tumors and disease (AIDS). (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X; 106X and 310, or BIOL 111X and 112X; or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2004-05.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 467 3 Credits
Ecosystems of Alaska
Focus on the application of ecological principles to field research. Emphasis on the integration of ecology with climatology, geology and hydrology to understand the functioning of ecosystems at local and regional scales. One week of intensive lecture and library research followed by 10 days of field research in the major ecosystems of Alaska. Lab fee: $90.00. (Prerequisites: An undergraduate course in ecology, geology, hydrology or climatology and permission of instructor.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Summer, As Demand Warrants
BIOL 471 3 Credits
Population Ecology (n)
Biology of populations of plants and animals, including population structure, natality, mortality, population growth, regulation of population size, population interactions in competition, herbivory, predation and parasitism. (Prerequisite: a calculus course, BIOL 271 for biology majors; WLF 201 for wildlife majors; either course for others.) (2 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 472W 3 Credits
Community Ecology (n)
Structure of plant and animal communities and their organization. Structuring forces of competition, predation, herbivory, mutualisms and the flow of energy and nutrients. Latitudinal gradients in species richness and biogeography. (Prerequisites: BIOL 271; ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Fall
BIOL 473W 4 Credits
Limnology
The ecology of inland waters emphasizing lakes and rivers. Lecture provides graphically-oriented view of concepts. Workshops provide role-playing exercises for integrating social, economic and ecological aspects of managing freshwater systems. Laboratory involves team-based original research from proposal to manuscript. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X, 271, CHEM 105X, 106X, ENGL 111X; ENGL 211X or ENGL 213X or permission of instructor.) (2 + 3 + 2) Offered Fall
BIOL 474 4 Credits
Plant Ecology (n)
Principles and contemporary topics in plant ecology. Autecology, community ecology, ecosystem ecology and evolutionary ecology. (Prerequisites: BIOL 239, BIOL 271, STAT 200. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 475 2 Credits
Vegetation Description and Analysis
Methods of vegetation science including sampling, classification, gradient analysis, ordination, field description and mapping. Field trips to the plant communities of interior Alaska. (Prerequisites: BIOL 474 or other general ecology course, permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.)
BIOL 476 3 Credits
Ecosystem Ecology (n)
Focus on the biological and physical principles that govern the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. Emphasis on how plants, animals and microorganisms control the movement of water, carbon and nutrients through ecosystems. Discussion of how changes in these processes have altered global cycles of carbon, water and nutrients and the sustainability of the world’s ecosystems. (Prerequisites: BIOL 271 or 239 or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 480 3 Credits
Water Pollution Biology
(Stacked with BIOL 685)
Water quality standards: criteria and use classifications. Effects of man-caused environmental stresses on the composition and dynamics of aquatic communities. Changes in transfers of matter and energy. Biological indices including diversity. (Prerequisites: BIOL 271 and 473 or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 481 4 Credits
Principles of Evolution
(Stacked with BIOL 681)
Patterns and processes of evolutionary change are used to explore the unifying principles of the biological sciences. Basic models of population genetics, quantitative genetics, development, phylogenetics and systematics are used to build a conceptual framework for study of living systems. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 271, BIOL 362, STAT 200, junior standing or permission of instructor. STAT 200 may be taken concurrently.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 483 3 Credits
Stream Ecology
The ecology of streams and rivers focusing on the physical, chemical and biological processes. (Prerequisites: BIOL 105X, 106X and 271. Recommended: CHEM 105X and 106X.) (3 + 0) Offered Spring
BIOL 485 3 Credits
Global Change Biology (n)
(Cross-listed with WLF 485)
Contemporary science and policy concerns of global change that involve biological processes. Includes structural and functional responses and sensitivities of biological processes to environmental changes (such as climate and human uses of land and biological resources); implications of biological responses to global change for conservation and management of biological resources; and the social and economic consequences of biological responses to global change. (Prerequisites: BIOL 271, CHEM 105X and CHEM 106X. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 487 3 Credits
Conceptual Issues in Evolutionary Biology
(Stacked with BIOL 687 and PHIL 687 and cross-listed with PHIL 487)
Analysis of some of the main models which explain evolutionary change, followed by consideration of the practical implications these models have on the study of biological phenomena in general. (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 602 3 Credits
Research Design
(Cross-listed with WLF 602)
An introduction to the philosophy, performance and evaluation of hypothetical/deductive research in the natural sciences, with emphasis on hypothesis formulation and testing. Each student will develop a research proposal. (3 + 0) Offered Fall
BIOL 611J 3 Credits
Fish Physiology
Physiology of the living fishes. (Prerequisites: BIOL 310 [Juneau BIOL 310], BIOL 427.) (3 + 0) Offered in Juneau, As Demand Warrants
BIOL 614 2 Credits
Grazing Ecology
(Cross-listed with WLF 614)
The dynamics of herbivory, emphasizing the grazing process and including mechanisms of feeding, feeding behavior, habitat and plant selection, physiological influences on feeding, plant and community level responses, plant defenses against herbivory and management of grazing systems. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing or approval of instructor.) (2 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 615 3 Credits
Systematic and Comparative Biology
Concepts of systematic biology which are basic to a rigorous and complete understanding of modern evolutionary theory. Systematics provides the historical framework that is critical to a variety of comparative analyses in biology. Recent innovations in phylogenetic analyses will be explored. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing in biology or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 617 3 Credits
Neurobiology
(Stacked with BIOL 417O)
Organization and function of the vertebrate nervous system from the subcellular to the organismal levels. Neural bases of sensations, of specific behaviors and of homeostasis. Applications of basic neurobiological research to pathological conditions. Examples taken mostly from the recent vertebrate literature. (Prerequisite: BIOL 310 and graduate standing; or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2005-06.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 618 3 Credits
Biogeography
Spatial and temporal geography of plant and animal groups; emphasis on environmental and historical features controlling present patterns of distribution. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 620 3 Credits
Techniques in Physiology and Nutrient Analysis
(Cross-listed with WLF 620)
Techniques for analysis of energy, protein, lipid and carbohydrates in animal and plant tissues. Application of body condition and tracer methods to large and small animals. Students collect samples, perform analyses, calculate results and present a poster on their investigations. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: WLF 460 or BIOL 303, graduate standing or permission of instructor.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 622 3 Credits
Readings in Conservation Biology
(Cross-listed with WLF 622)
Critical reading and discussion of historical and contemporary literature concerning extinction patterns, population viability and the preservation, design and management of habitats for small populations. Stresses integration of principles into strategies for biological conservation. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing; BIOL 471 or WLF 410; or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2004-05.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 623 3 Credits
Physiological Ecology of Overwintering
(Stacked with BIOL 422)
Investigation of the physiological and behavioral responses of animals and plants to winter in northern environments. Analysis of the biologically relevant environmental changes that accompany winter, and comparison of alternative strategies that organisms use to cope with winter including: photoperiodism, acclimatization, arctic endurance, migration, hibernation, supercooling and freeze tolerance. Includes principles of thermoregulation, conductance and fattening. Includes field studies of overwintering of insects and amphibians. (Prerequisites: BIOL 310 or permission of instructor. Next offered: 2004-05.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 627 3 Credits
Chemical Ecology
Current theory and experimentation in chemical ecology, with emphasis on chemical defenses of plants and animals. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 629 3 Credits
Advanced Animal Behavior
Adaptive nature of behavior in relation to the physical, biological and social environment. Current problems and controversies in the study of behavior. (Prerequisites: BIOL 441 and graduate standing; or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 636 3 Credits
Life History Evolution
(Cross-listed with WLF 636)
Examination of theory and literature pertaining to life history evolution, including demography, basic quantitative genetics. Importance of trade-offs and population processes is discussed. Exposure to methods of estimation of life history parameters. All students will present a formal seminar. (Next offered: 2005-06.) (2 + 0 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 642 4 Credits
Advanced Microbiology
(Stacked with BIOL 442W,O/2)
Diversity of microorganisms. Morphology, physiology and systematics of microorganisms, particularly bacteria. Emphasis on organisms of environmental or medical interest. Laboratory fee: $50.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 342, CHEM 321 and graduate standing; or permission of instructor.) (2 + 6) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 644 3 Credits
Advanced Topics in Evolution
Modern theory and subdisciplinary directions in the expanding field of evolutionary biology. Topics include adaptation, speciation, reinforcement, comparative method, group selection, phylogeography and the role of evolutionary biology in society. (Prerequisites: Undergraduate course in evolution or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 645 4 Credits
Molecular Evolution
(Stacked with BIOL 445 and CHEM 445 and cross-listed with CHEM 645)
Structure, function and evolution of hereditary molecules (nucleic acids). Laboratory fee: $100.00. (Prerequisites: BIOL 362 and graduate standing; or permission of instructor.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 650 3 Credits
Fish Ecology
(Cross-listed with FISH 650)
The ecology of fish is examined from the community aspect. Current literature on inter- and intraspecific relationships, influence of the environment on community structure, behavior and production is emphasized. (Prerequisites: BIOL 473 [Juneau BIOL 423] and FISH 400.) (2 + 3) Offered Fairbanks, Alternate Fall; Offered Juneau, As Demand Warrants
BIOL 653 4 Credits
Molecular Biology
(Stacked with BIOL 453O/2 and CHEM 453O/2 and cross-listed with CHEM 653)
Provides in-depth coverage of eukaryotic and prokaryotic gene function, including the applications of recombinant DNA technology to the biological sciences. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing; BIOL 303 or BIOL 362 or CHEM 321; or permission of instructor.) (3 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 655 2 Credits
Principles of Humane Animal Care and Use
(Cross-listed with WLF 655)
Humane care and use of animals in laboratory or field research settings. Promotes a sensitivity and concern for the needs of the research animal to ensure that optimal care is provided. Topics include ethics, legislation, role of the IACUC, animal handling, animal research hazards, wildlife capture and marking techniques, anesthesia and principles of aseptic surgery. Fulfills the formal training required by the Animal Welfare Regulations and Public Health Services Policy for individuals working with live vertebrates in a research or teaching environment. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing or permission of instructor.) (2 + 0) Offered Fall
BIOL 661 4 Credits
Cell Biology
(Stacked with BIOL 461 and CHEM 461 and cross-listed with CHEM 661)
Principles of structure and function of eucaryotic cells. Molecular and cellular aspects of internal organization of cells and their integration in a multicellular community including cytoskeleton, energetics, vesicular traffic, signaling, cell division cycle, DNA replication and transcription, protein translation, adhesion, cancer and cell death. Laboratory involves team-based research to address fundamental aspects of cell biology. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing; BIOL 362 or concurrent enrollment; CHEM 321 or concurrent enrollment; or permission of instructor.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 671 3 Credits
Modeling Biological Systems
Modeling biological systems on the principles and techniques of modeling the dynamics of biological systems. Addresses modeling issues in biological research projects. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing; BIOL 271 or WLF 201; MATH 200X and STAT 200; or permission of instructor.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 672 3 Credits
Ecosystem Processes
A comparative approach to the structural and functional components of terrestrial ecosystems, emphasizing primary and secondary production and the dynamics of nutrient cycling processes. Interactions between producers, consumers and decomposition processes, and effects on the efficiencies of nutrient and energy transfers. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing or permission of instructor.) (2 + 0 + 2) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 675 3 Credits
Plant Physiological Ecology
Physiological ecology of dormancy, germination, growth, photosynthesis, water relations and nutrition with an emphasis on northern and other stressful environments; relationship to community and ecosystem processes. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing; BIOL 239, 334 and 474; or permission of instructor.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 677 3 Credits
Advanced Topics in Plant Ecology and Systematics
One of four topics is covered each year: 1) Current issues and concepts in plant population and community ecology. 2) Reproductive ecology—pollination, seed dispersal, breeding systems and coevolution. 3) Plant families of the world. 4) Plant-animal interactions—evolution and ecology. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing and BIOL 474; or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit when topic differs.) (3 + 0) Offered Spring
BIOL 678 3 Credits
Tropical Ecology Field Course
Intensive field study of the ecology of selected tropical habitats, with emphasis on ecological field methods, plant-animal interactions and ecological problems and processes unique to the tropics. Course consists of two week intensive field work between the fall and spring semesters, followed by weekly lecture/labs during the spring semester. Preregistration in the preceding fall semester is required. (Field trip cost borne by student.) (Prerequisites: BIOL 271, 239 and 331; graduate student standing or senior with permission of instructor.) (0 + 3 + arranged) Offered Alternate Spring
BIOL 680 3 Credits
Data Analysis in Biology
(Cross-listed with WLF 680)
Biological applications of nonparametric statistics, including tests based on binomial and Poisson distributions, analysis of two-way and multiway contingency tables and tests based on ranks; multivariate statistics, including principal component analysis, ordination techniques, cluster and discriminate analysis; and time-series analyses. Introduction to the use of the computer and use of statistical packages. Each student will analyze a data set appropriate to the student’s research interests. (Prerequisites: STAT 200, 401 and either graduate standing in a biologically oriented field or permission of instructor.) (2 + 3) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 681 4 Credits
Principles of Evolution
(Stacked with BIOL 481)
Patterns and processes of evolutionary change are used to explore the unifying principles of the biological sciences. Basic models of population genetics, quantitative genetics, development, phylogenetics and systematics are used to build a conceptual framework for study of living systems. Laboratory fee: $50. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing with courses in genetics, ecology and statistics; or permission of instructor.) (3 + 3) Offered Spring
BIOL 682 3 Credits
Physical-Chemical Limnology
(Cross-listed with MSL 680)
A comprehensive course in physical and chemical limnology covering the basic processes and cycles in freshwater systems, including a consideration of arctic and subarctic lakes. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing; MATH 200X or 272X; or permission of instructor. Recommended: Course in quantitative analysis.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 685 3 Credits
Water Pollution Biology
(Stacked with BIOL 480)
Water quality standards: criteria and use classifications. Effects of man-caused environmental stresses on the composition and dynamics of aquatic communities. Changes in transfers of matter and energy. Biological indices including diversity. (Prerequisite: Graduate standing; BIOL 271 and 473; or permission of instructor.) (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Fall
BIOL 687 3 Credits
Conceptual Issues in Evolutionary Biology
(Stacked with BIOL 487 and PHIL 487 and cross-listed with PHIL 687)
Analysis of some of the main models which explain evolutionary change, followed by consideration of the practical implications these models have on the study of biological phenomena in general. (3 + 0) Offered Alternate Spring