Biology and Biochemistry
Academic Programs
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Biology BA -
Biochemistry BS -
Biology BS: Animal Science Concentration -
Biology BS: Biological Sciences Concentration -
Biology BS: Human Biology Concentration -
Biology BS: Molecular Biology Concentration -
Biology BS: Plant Biology and Ecology Concentration -
Biology Double Major -
Biology Minor
New discoveries and innovative technologies are pushing the boundaries of what we know about ourselves and the living world. Biological science graduates today need to be able to move into a diverse array of careers, from health-related professions such as medicine, dentistry and veterinary, to post-graduate study across a range of topics such as biotechnology, ecology, or animal sciences, to employment opportunities such as teaching or biological research. We train our students to have a strong, broad foundation in biology while providing numerous opportunities for students to develop specialized expertise and technical and research skills they need in order to be competitive applicants when they leave Alfred University.
Along with a diverse education in the liberal arts, the BA in biology curriculum facilitates double and co-majors in other disciplines and serves as solid foundation for many career choices. In our 4+1 program with the College of Business, biology majors may leave Alfred University with an MBA. Students interested in the intersection of biology and materials engineering may minor in biomaterials science in the Inamori School of Engineering. Many biology majors also earn minors or majors in chemistry. Those with interest in global and human ecology may participate in the interdisciplinary environmental studies program. An interdisciplinary minor in biopsychology allows majors in biology or psychology to understand the interrelationship of physical and physiologic systems. Students in other disciplines can complete a minor in biology or in biological anthropology, and our biology majors may have minors in a diverse range of STEM and non-STEM fields.
The Division of Biology and Biochemistry offers two Bachelor of Science degrees. Built from the same foundation of knowledge as is required for our BA biology students, BS biology students will gain greater experience and knowledge by taking additional courses in organic chemistry, physics, and calculus. The BS in Biochemistry provides students with an interdisciplinary approach to solving current biological and chemical problems through courses in biology, biochemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, physics and calculus. These programs will meet the needs of students who plan to enter graduate or professional school in the natural agencies. The designation of concentration areas within the BS Biology major (Human Biology, Plant Biology, Ecology and Evolution, Molecular Biology, Animal Biology) reflects groupings of courses that are relevant to movement towards distinct subdisciplines in the biological sciences.
We have a strong learner-centered focus throughout our curriculum. Students are engaged in course objectives through lectures, laboratory, fieldwork, activities, discussions, and seminars. Our core courses are sequentially designed and integrated to allow students to develop the technical and research skills needed so that they may participate as research collaborators. Our students ask questions, learn how to find answers, and are concerned about the world around them. Many students extend knowledge gained in their courses and design independent research projects, either in alignment with faculty research projects or to explore their own biological research questions.
Scientific knowledge is used in practical applications throughout the curriculum, as most of our courses include experiential and applied learning opportunities. Several courses include CUREs – curriculum-based undergraduate research experiences – in which students contribute to and collaborate on novel research questions. Research intensive electives have enrollments limited to 6-8 students and are designed around investigative questions in the areas of animal behavior, biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology and plant biology, with each student focusing on related but independent research questions. Students enrolled in these courses have the opportunity to present research findings at regional and national meetings, or to participate in manuscript preparation.
Upon completion of this program a student is able to:
- Acquire, analyze, and synthesize fundamental knowledge of concepts and principles across all disciplines of biology
- Demonstrate proficiency with equipment and procedures used in modern biological laboratory and field research.
- Conduct research, construct hypotheses and/or research questions, and draw conclusions that connect new knowledge to existing knowledge.
- Communicate principles as they cross boundaries of traditional biological disciplines by effectively communicating information in multiple formats, and by using revision to edit work for clarity, consistence, and coherence.
Courses
BCHM 320: Toxicology
Credits 4This course explores the effects of chemicals (pollutants, pharmaceutical agents, etc.) on biological systems at the organismal level with emphasis on the effects of chemical exposure on human health. Topics include general principles of toxicology; the dose-response relationship; absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion; non-organ directed toxicity; target organ toxicity; risk assessment.
BCHM 324: Phage Genomics
Credits 2This course introduces genomics through the annotation of a locally isolated bacteriophage. Students will gain experience with current genomics software while contributing to a nationwide research project to better understand bacteriophages. The course acts as the second installment of the SEA PHAGES program, started in Biol 155 Phage Discovery, however enrollment is open to all interested students.
BCHM 390: Junior Seminar
Credits 1Development of writing and interviewing skills critical in applying to graduate and professional schools, internships, and for employment. Students write and critique cover letters, resumes, essays and sample applications, take sample entrance examinations, interview a professional in a career of interest, and receive phone and face-to-face mock interviews with feedback on appropriate dress, mannerisms, and ability to respond to questions. Emphasis on professionalism.
BCHM 420: Biochem: Proteins & Metabolism
Credits 4Properties, biosynthetic pathways, and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and nitrogenous compounds with related units on physical biochemistry, protein structure, bioenergetics and enzyme kinetics. Laboratories reinforce theoretical concepts and provide hands-on experience with modern biochemistry techniques and instrumentation. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory.
BCHM 422: BioChem: Nucleic Acids
Credits 4This course surveys the biochemistry of the gene, with an emphasis on protein/nucleic acid interactions. Topics include nucleic acid structure, regulation of DNA replication and transcription, post-transcriptional modification of RNA, recombinant DNA techniques, and genetic engineering methods
BCHM 450: Independent Study
Credits 1 4Academic inquiry into an area not covered in any established course and carried on outside the usual instructor/classroom setting. Approved Plan of Study required. Independent Study is required of all students who are candidates for graduation with honors in Biochemistry.
BCHM 490: Senior Seminar
Credits 1An advanced topics seminar held once a week, conducted by enrolled students, local speakers, and outside speakers. Weekly topics and discussion will represent current research in a wide range of biological sciences.
BIOL 101: General Biology I
Credits 4This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of biological organization at the cellular level. Topics include the chemical basis of life, cell structure and function, and genetics. Three lecture/discussions and one two-hour laboratory. This course is offered as a dual credit course at Wellsville High School.
BIOL 102: General Biology II
Credits 4A continuation of BIOL 101, this course is an introduction to the fundamentals of biological organization and processes with an emphasis on diversity of organisms, the variety of ways they have adapted to meet the requirements for living, and how they interact with their environment and other organisms. Three lecture/discussions and one two-hour laboratory. This course is offered as a dual credit course at Wellsville High School.
BIOL 105: Science of Nutrition
Credits 4By looking at the science behind nutrition, we answer the questions Are we really what we eat? And how do we know what is in our food? Incorporating basic biology, chemistry, and physics, we investigate the components of food, consider how these are processed by the body, and the importance of nutrition to growth, health, and disease.
BIOL 106: Field Botany
Credits 4Introduction to the taxonomy and adaptations of native and introduced plants in western New York ecosystems. Students will learn identification of species through laboratory and field studies. Biodiversity of natural ecosystems will be investigated and compared. Biology majors may receive Biology elective credit by fulfilling additional requirements.
BIOL 107: Human Anatomy and Physiology I
Credits 4This course examines the bases of the human body in health and disease. Dissection of the cat and other mammalian organs, and a series of physiology exercises investigate structure and function from cell to organ system of the integumentary, skeleto muscular, nervous-sensory and endocrine systems. Three lecture/discussions and one three-hour laboratory. This course is offered as part of the BOCES New Visions Medical program.
BIOL 115: Introduction to Human Biology
Credits 4This course is designed to introduce individuals to the general concepts necessary to understand the human body, appropriate study techniques for science, and preparation for upper level biology courses. An introduction to anatomical language, general biochemical principles and cellular processes will be covered before reviewing selected body systems. The course will examine the general components and functions of the muscular, skeletal, nervous, cardiorespiratory, lymphatic, digestive, and urinary systems.
BIOL 119: Physiology of Aging
Credits 4Examines both the expected changes in normal human aging as well as the pathologies of the aging process. Topics covered include digestive, cardiovascular, sensory, hormonal, musculoskeletal and urogenital systems as well as cellular metabolism and drug absorption. Required of Gerontology majors. Four lectures.
BIOL 120: Gut Instinct: An Introduction to Microbes
Credits 4This course will introduce you to the hidden microbial world, with an emphasis on bacteria and viruses and the relationship they have with humans. The following topics are covered: microbial structure, physiology, ecology, metabolism, infectious disease, food microbiology, and gut-microbe interactions that affect human health.
BIOL 130: Introduction to Human Genetics
Credits 4A look at human genetics from the human genome project and biotechnology to inheritance of traits. Emphasis will be placed on understanding current and past discoveries in genetics, how those discoveries may impact our lives, and what they mean for the non-scientist. Class will meet for 3 lectures and one two-hour lab per week.
BIOL 150: Biological Foundations
Credits 4This course introduces both biology majors and non-majors to the core concepts of biological literacy (evolution, structure and function, genetics and information flow, metabolism and energy, and living systems) and the competencies that underlie the disciplinary practice of Biology.
BIOL 150L: Biological Foundations Lab
Credits 1This laboratory course will focus on an authentic research question related to biology and biochemistry. Students will collect and analyze data to explore various biological topics.
BIOL 155: Biological Foundations: Research Project
Credits 4This course is designed for entering biology majors who have had a strong biology course prior to matriculation at Alfred, and who thrive in a non-traditional course environment. In addition to a solid foundation in Biological core concepts, students conduct authentic (novel) research. Registration is restricted to entering students in biology and biochemistry majors.
BIOL 210: General Biology I: Ecosystems and Organisms
Credits 4An introduction to the fundamentals of biological organization and processes with an emphasis on diversity of organisms, the variety of ways they have adapted to meet the requirements for living, and how they interact with their environment and other organisms. This is the first semester introductory biology course for biology majors. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM 105 is recommended.
BIOL 210L: Laboratory-General Biology I
Credits 0This laboratory course will focus on developing introductory skills to work safely and efficiently in a biology lab setting. Students will collect and analyze data to explore various biological topics.
BIOL 211: Cell Biology
Credits 4The first course in a core sequence for biology majors, this course focuses on the molecular foundations of life, enzymology, metabolism, and cell ultrastructure, organization and function. Laboratory focuses on basic techniques including microscopy, micropipetting and the use of model organisms. CHEM 105 & 106 is recommended as a pre- or co-requisite.
BIOL 212: Principles of Genetics
Credits 4Students who complete this course will have a fundamental knowledge of the principles of transmission, molecular and population genetics. Application of concepts through investigative laboratories. A required core course for biology majors. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Pre- or Co-requisite CHEM 106.
BIOL 213: Structure and Function of Organisms
Credits 4Using one or more model systems (e.g. humans, plants), students will be able to explain structure-function relationships; how form follows function in animals and plants. Application of concepts through investigative laboratories. A required core course for biology majors. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week.
BIOL 226: Biostatistics
Credits 4Application of statistics to experimental design, data analysis, and decision making in the biological sciences.
BIOL 226L: Laboratory - Biostatistics
Credits 0This course comprises an introduction to concepts, skills, and tools used in biological statistics. Students will learn foundational concepts driving statistical theory and become skilled with statistical tools currently used to design experiments, analyze data, and form conclusions in the natural sciences.
BIOL 300: Topics in Biology
Credits 1 4This course provides opportunities for examining areas not covered in the regular offerings. Topics vary each semester.
BIOL 302: General Microbiology
Credits 4This course surveys the microbial world, with an emphasis on bacteria and viruses. The student will gain an understanding of how the study of microorganisms has paved the way for important advances in human health, agriculture, and food science. Major topic areas include structure/function, metabolism, genetics, biotechnology, and host-parasite relationships. The laboratory offers experience in aseptic handling of bacterial cultures as well as applications of classical and modern techniques for microbial identification and characterization. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory.
BIOL 306: Human Pathophysiology
Credits 4The course explores major human disease in the hematopoietic, cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, and gastrointestinal systems. Emphasis on the etiology, the alterations in physiological, cellular, and biochemical processes, the associated homeostatic responses, and the manifestations of disease.
BIOL 307: Anatomy and Physiology: Nerves Muscles Skeleton
Credits 4This course examines the bases of the human body in health and disease. Using dissections of mammalian specimens, students investigate structure and function from cell to organ system of the integument, skeletal-muscular, and nervous-sensory systems. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. This course is part of the Anatomy and Physiology series.
BIOL 308: Anatomy and Physiology: Viscera
Credits 4This course examines the bases of the human body in health and disease with a focus on 'internal' organ systems, including the circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Students engage in dissections of mammalian specimens. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory per week. This course is part of the Anatomy and Physiology series.
BIOL 314: Community and Systems Biology
Credits 4Living systems are interconnected and interacting. Living organisms must be able to perceive and respond to changes in their diverse and dynamic environments. Therefore, we consider biological systems at multiple functional scales to fully understand how organisms and their environments interact with and modify each other.
BIOL 315: Genetics and Evolution of Populations
Credits 4This course investigates modern evolutionary theory at the macro- and micro-evolutionary scale. Topics include historical perspectives, basic principles of evolution, mechanisms of evolution, genetics of populations, quantitative genetics and phylogenetics. Four hours of lecture per week. BIOL 213 recommended.
BIOL 320: Toxicology
Credits 4This course explores the effects of chemicals (pollutants, pharmaceutical agents, etc.) on biological systems at the organismal level with emphasis on the effects of chemical exposure on human health. Topics include general principles of toxicology; the dose-response relationship; absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion; non-organ directed toxicity; target organ toxicity; risk assessment.
BIOL 322: Botany
Credits 4A phylogenetic exploration of plants, with emphasis on adaptation of structure and function to different environments. Topics include anatomy, physiology, evolution, ecology, and economic botany. Three lectures and one two-hour laboratory period.
BIOL 324: Phage Genomics
Credits 2This course introduces genomics through the annotation of a locally isolated bacteriophage. Students will gain experience with current genomics software while contributing to a nationwide research project to better understand bacteriophages. The course acts as the second installment of the SEA PHAGES program, started in Biol 155 Phage Discovery, however enrollment is open to all interested students.
BIOL 346: Animal Nutrition
Credits 4Basic principles of animal nutrition, emphasizing characteristics and metabolism of nutrients, these nutrients in terms of feedstuffs, anatomy and physiology of gastrointestinal tracts, and nutritional lifecycles of various animals. Four lectures.
BIOL 348: Animal Behavior
Credits 4A look into the principles behind animal behavior with a primary focus on how animals interact with other animals and their environment. And a secondary focus on how humans have positively and negatively impacted animal populations, and vice versa.
BIOL 354: Ecology
Credits 4Interactions of organisms and their environment with emphasis on populations, communities, and ecosystems. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory.
BIOL 357: Conservation Biology
Credits 4This course focuses on the biology that underlies our efforts to conserve genetic, species, and community diversity and the community/ecosystem/landscape dynamics that sustain them. We will review concepts of genetics, population biology, and landscape ecology to understand threats to populations and species and the techniques used to sustain them.
BIOL 375: Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
Credits 4A comprehensive review of the structure, taxonomy, evolution, and biological relationships of vertebrates. Two lectures and two two-hour laboratories.
BIOL 376: Animal Physiology
Credits 4Principles and problems concerned with the physiochemical responses and functioning of animal tissues and organs. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory period.
BIOL 390: Junior Seminar
Credits 1Development of writing and interviewing skills critical in applying to graduate and professional schools, internships, and for employment. Students write and critique cover letters, resumes, essays and sample applications, take sample entrance examinations, interview a professional in a career of interest, and receive phone and face-to-face mock interviews with feedback on appropriate dress, mannerisms, and ability to respond to questions. Emphasis on professionalism.
BIOL 400: Research Topics
Credits 4 5Offerings are research-intensive courses that vary from year to year.
BIOL 402: Immunology
Credits 4In this course students learn what makes up the immune system, and how it works in keeping us healthy. We'll also look at some of the more complex issues surrounding the immune system such as vaccination, autoimmune disease and transplantation. Upon completion of the course students will be able to name and describe the cells and organs of the immune system and understand the function of each. Students will also be able to describe the normal processes of immunity and regulatory controls, explain the results of immune component deficiencies and understand how normal immune function can cause disease. BIOL 302 recommended.
BIOL 420: Biochemistry: Proteins and Metabolism
Credits 4Properties, biosynthetic pathways, and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and nitrogenous compounds with related units on physical biochemistry, protein structure, bioenergetics and enzyme kinetics. Laboratories reinforce theoretical concepts and provide hands-on experience with modern biochemistry techniques and instrumentation. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory.
BIOL 422: Biochemistry: Nucleic Acids
Credits 4This course surveys the biochemistry of the gene, with an emphasis on protein/nucleic acid interactions. Topics include nucleic acid structure, regulation of DNA replication and transcription, post-transcriptional modification of RNA, recombinant DNA techniques, and genetic engineering methods.
BIOL 425: Physiological Plant Ecology
Credits 4An exploration of plant function from the tissue to the whole organism level, with emphasis on interactions with the environment. Topics include plant-water relations, nutrition, energy and carbon cycling, development, and stress physiology. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory.
BIOL 450: Independent Study
Credits 1 4Academic inquiry into an area not covered in any established course, and carried on outside the usual instructor/classroom setting. Approved Plan of Study required. Independent Study is required of all students who are candidates for graduation with honors in Biology.
BIOL 485: Internship in Biology
Credits 1 4Off-campus research in consultation with faculty and project advisors. Open to junior, senior and graduate biology students. The course will be assessed as pass/fail.
BIOL 490: Senior Seminar
Credits 1An advanced topics seminar held once a week, conducted by enrolled students, local speakers, and outside speakers. Weekly topics and discussion will represent current research in a wide range of biological sciences. Must be a biology major with senior standing.