Adam Negrin

Biology, the study of life on Earth, encompasses structures and forms ranging from the very minute to the very large. In order to grasp the complexities of life, we begin this study with the cellular and molecular forms and mechanisms that serve as the foundation for all living organisms. The initial part of the semester will introduce the fundamental molecules critical to the biochemistry of life processes. From there, we branch out to investigate the major ideas, structures, and concepts central to the biology of cells, genetics, and the chromosomal basis of inheritance. Finally, we conclude the semester by examining how those principles relate to the mechanisms of evolution. Throughout the semester, we will discuss the individuals responsible for major discoveries, as well as the experimental techniques and process by which such advances in biological understanding are made. Classes will be supplemented with weekly lab work.

With more than 350,000 known species, plants form the foundations of ecosystems and are crucial to life on Earth. This course will examine the diversity, ecology, and evolutionary history of major land plant groups—bryophytes, ferns, lycophytes, gymnosperms, and angiosperms. Through lectures, discussion of scientific literature, and hands-on investigation of live and preserved material, students will learn how to decipher botanical terminology; identify major plant families using diagnostic characters and dichotomous keys; analyze evolutionary relationships and adaptations across plant lineages; and investigate plant interactions with fungi, bacteria, animals, and their environment.

This course is an introduction to the world of plants, with an emphasis on the interactions and interdependencies of plants in human life and modern culture. Through lectures, text readings, primary literature reviews, instructor-led discussions, and presentations, the course will cover basic aspects of plant anatomy, physiology, taxonomy, food science, and the historical and current importance of plants in human life. The course will increase student awareness of, and knowledge about, the uses of plants and examine critical issues affecting ecology and the loss of traditional plant knowledge. Students will actively participate and develop a semester-long research project and discuss their work progress in biweekly lab meetings.