Teaching

Environmental & Agricultural Microbiology  (BIOL 58301) Upper-Division/ Graduate-level Lecture; 3-Credits; Alternate FALL
This course will enable upper-division biology majors and graduate students to understand and interpret the latest knowledge on microbes in the various environments on earth, the impact of microorganisms on agriculture and the effect of microorganisms on human health and quality of life. The optional laboratory section will enable students to apply techniques for isolating and growing soil and aquatic microorganisms.

 

Laboratory in Environmental & Agricultural Microbiology (BIOL 58302) Upper-Division/ Graduate-level Lecture; 3-Credits; Alternate FALL
The lab will enable students to apply techniques for isolating and growing soil and aquatic microorganisms. Students in the lab section will apply molecular biological and biochemical techniques for analyzing such microbes.

 

Proteins: Structure and Function (BIOL 55110) Upper-Division/ Graduate-level Lecture; 3-Credits; Alternate FALL
This course explores the fascinating world of proteins which are the nanomachines that are indispensable to life because of their catalytic and structural functions. Students will learn the principles governing protein function and get an integrated view of proteins at the molecular, cellular and systemic level.

 

Emerging Infectious Diseases (BIOL 57710) Upper-Division/ Graduate-level Lecture; 3-Credits; SPRING/SUMMER
This course explores the molecular biology and epidemiology of several emerging infectious diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and protozoa using recent primary research literature as course material.

 

Principles of Virology (BIOL 54400) Upper-Division/ Graduate-level Lecture; 3-Credits; SPRING/SUMMER
This is an intensive course focused on the molecular biology of viruses. Students will learn about the genetic and molecular structure of viruses, their replication and modes of infection. Viral RNA, DNA and protein synthesis will be discussed in detail. Intracellular trafficking, assembly and exit of viral particles will be studied. HIV pathogenesis and oncogenesis by viruses will get special emphasis along with vaccines and antiviral drugs.

 

General Microbiology (BIOL 43700) Upper-Division Lecture; 3-Credits; FALL & SPRING
This course is designed to introduce upper-division students of biology to the fascinating world of microorganisms, their interactions with each other and effects on various organisms. The fundamentals of the molecular biology of microorganisms, their metabolism, growth, genetics and diversity will be taught. The associated laboratory component will train the student to use aseptic techniques to cultivate and isolate microorganisms.

 

Microbiology for Health Professionals (BIOL 22000); 3-Credits; SUMMER
This course is intended to introduce students to the microbial world and how it impacts human health. Students will learn about several important infectious diseases encountered in the health professions. Students will also learn the fundamentals of microbial growth, metabolism, microbial genetics and the special characteristics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms and viruses.

 

 

Other Courses taught
Senior Biology Seminar (BIOL 49100) Capstone course for seniors; 3-Credits;