BIOL 5900 - Molecular Biology

Goals: To develop an understanding of the fundamental molecular processes that underlie gene expression, replication, and regulation in living systems. Students will become familiar with experimental approaches used to study nucleic acids and gene function and will apply these concepts to contemporary challenges in medicine, forensics, and biotechnology. Through lectures, discussions of primary research articles, and hands-on laboratory work, students will gain practical skills in molecular techniques such as DNA manipulation, PCR, and gene editing, as well as experience in analyzing and communicating experimental results.

Content: This course explores the molecular mechanisms that control life at the genetic level. Students will investigate the structure and function of nucleic acids, the processes of DNA replication, transcription, and translation, and the regulation of gene expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. The course integrates foundational concepts with modern applications, highlighting how molecular biology informs advances in medicine, forensics, and biotechnology.

Weekly sessions will alternate between lectures and hands-on laboratory exercises, giving students the opportunity to connect theory with practice. Laboratory topics include computational analyses of DNA sequences and genomes, DNA extraction from different sources, PCR amplification, protein production in cell free systems, gene cloning, reporter genes, and CRISPR-based gene editing. Through experimental design and data analysis, students will develop technical skills and scientific reasoning essential for careers in the biological sciences.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3050 or BIOL 3060 or BIOC 3820, grade of C- or higher

Credits: 4