BIOL3103 - 01 - Cell Biology With Lab

This course includes a detailed examination of the structure and function of living systems at the cellular level. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between the fine structure of the cell and cellular mechanisms such as transport, movement, secretion and reproduction. Selected cellular systems such as neurons and muscle cells are examined in detail to illustrate specific phenomena. The laboratory component of the course is designed to provide hands-on experience investigating concepts discussed in the lecture and learning important experimental techniques. Students work together as groups of three to four students each. Some of the labs are done in the traditional mode of demonstration and observation while others are investigative. Three weeks are set aside for the collaborative student groups to design and implement investigations of membrane transport in red blood cells from several different species. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory.