Areas of study: arid land ecology, behavioral ecology, botany, cellular and molecular biology, community ecology, comparative immunology, comparative physiology, computational biology, conservation biology, ecology, ecosystem ecology, evolutionary genetics, evolutionary biology, genomics, microbiology, molecular genetics, parasitology, physiology, physiological ecology, population biology, systematics, vertebrate and invertebrate zoology.
Students considering applying for graduate study are encouraged to write to the Department of Biology or consult our Web site for information and application material. Each applicant’s course background is evaluated and emphasis is placed on the applicant’s scholarship and research potential. Letters of reference are particularly important. The General Graduate Record Exam test scores are required. Each applicant must include a letter of intent stating the reasons for attending, goals and the tentative academic area in which he/she hopes to work. All applicants must be sponsored by at least one member of the graduate faculty before admission to graduate study can be recommended by the Graduate Student Selection Committee.
The Department of Biology offers the Ph.D., M.S. Plan I (thesis option) and M.S. Plan II (non-thesis option). The M.S. Plan II is not a research degree and normally does not lead to work in the doctoral program. It is intended primarily for individuals who wish to supplement their baccalaureate programs with additional coursework. The M.S. Plan I is a research degree with the same philosophy as the Ph.D. It is not a prerequisite for the Ph.D. but may lead to work on that degree. Students whose ultimate goal is a Ph.D. are encouraged to consult with potential advisors within the department about applying directly to the Ph.D. program. The research degree is the heart of the graduate program. The Biology Department Graduate Handbook gives additional information on all aspects of the graduate program. The Biology Department Graduate Handbook should be consulted by all students who have been admitted to the Program.
Awarded to students who, in addition to satisfying the general requirements for a Ph.D. in Biology, satisfactorily complete three core Program in Interdisciplinary Biological and Biomedical Sciences classes. These are: BIOL 520 (3 credit hours; also offered as ANTH 620, CS 520, ECE 620, STAT 520), BIOL 503 (3 credit hours), and BIOL 524 (3 credit hours). In addition, students must satisfactorily complete a post-doctoral preparatory course (1 credit hour; currently offered as BIOL 502), a scientific ethics course/seminar taught or approved by PiBBs, and two additional integrated courses outside of biology to demonstrate depth in a secondary discipline. Finally, students must establish an interdisciplinary doctoral dissertation committee, which should have co-mentorship or active participation by faculty from two or more different departments, including Biology.
The minor is awarded to students who satisfactorily complete three core classes offered by the Program in Interdisciplinary Biological and Biomedical Sciences (PiBBs). These are:
In addition, students must satisfactorily complete a post-doctoral preparatory course (1 credit hour; currently offered as BIOL 502), and a scientific ethics course/seminar taught or approved by PiBBs, along with two additional integrated courses in biology, or, for biology students, two additional integrated courses outside of biology to demonstrate depth in a secondary discipline.
Finally, students must establish an interdisciplinary doctoral dissertation committee, which should have co-mentorship or active participation by faculty from two or more different departments, including biology. A total of 16 credit hours are required for the award of a transcripted minor at the Ph.D. level.
Courses
BIOL 1110. General Biology. (3)
S. Witt.
This course introduces non-science majors to basic biological concepts including, but not limited to, the properties of life, biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, evolution, biodiversity, and ecology. Three lectures.
Credit for both this course and BIOL 1140 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 1110L. General Biology Laboratory. (1)
S. Witt.
This laboratory course for non-science majors compliments the concepts covered in the associated general biology lecture course. Students will learn quantitative skills involved in scientific measurement and data analysis. Students will also perform experiments related to topics such as biochemistry, cell structure and function, molecular biology, evolution, taxonomic classification and phylogeny, biodiversity, and ecology. One 3-hour lab per week including plant and animal diversity, techniques and investigation of current issues.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1110.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 1140. Biology for Health Sciences. (3)
Buckholz, Howe, Kennedy.
This introductory biology course for students interested in health science careers focuses on the concepts of chemistry, cell biology, metabolism, genetics, and regulation of gene expression. Not accepted toward the Biology major.
Credit for both this course and BIOL 1110 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 1140L. Biology for Health Sciences Laboratory. (1)
S. Witt.
This course is a laboratory that complements the concepts learned in the theory course. Students will learn skills involved in scientific measurement, microscopy, and mathematical analysis. Students will also perform experiments and data analysis related to cell structure and function, chemistry, enzyme activity, and genetics.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1140.
BIOL 1150. Biodiversity. (3)
Biodiversity is the variety of life on earth. There are 2-10 million species on earth, but this number surely is vastly underestimated. Moreover, 99% of all species that ever existed are extinct. This course provides a broad survey of biodiversity-past, present, and future-with an emphasis on major groups in the tree of life (e.g., insects, plants, vertebrates, fungi, bacteria, etc.) and how humans interact with earth's biodiversity. We will explore biodiversity as it relates to earth history, mass extinctions, conservation, economics, ecology, evolution, and human society. We will also explore ways in which we categorize biodiversity (taxonomy and systematics) and catalog it for study (museums).
BIOL 1996. Topics. (1-6, no limit Δ)
A course exploring a topic not covered by the standard curriculum but of interest to faculty and students in a particular semester.
BIOL 2110C. Principles of Biology: Cellular and Molecular Lecture and Laboratory. (4)
Adema, Denkers, Howe, Kennedy.
This course introduces students to major topics in general biology. This courses focuses on the principles of structure and function of living things at the molecular, cellular and organismic levels of organization. Major topics included are introduction to the scientific process, chemistry of cells, organization of cells, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, cell division, DNA replication, transcription, and translation. Two lectures, one discussion section.
Students who completed AP Chemistry in high school should see the instructor of record or a Biology department advisor.
Pre or corequisite: CHEM 1215(or CHEM 1217) and CHEM 1215L
Prerequisite: ((CHEM 1105 or ACT Math =>22 or SAT Math Section =>540) and ALEKS1 =>50%) or MATH 1220 or MATH 1230 or MATH 1240 or MATH 1250 or MATH 1430 or MATH 1440 or MATH 1512 or MATH 1522 or MATH 2531 or ACT Math =>25 or SAT Math Section =>590.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 2210. Human Anatomy and Physiology I. (3)
Scholl.
This course is the first of two that serve as an introduction to human anatomy and physiology for Biology majors and allied health students. The course entails describing, explaining, and analyzing structure and function from the submicroscopic to the organismal level with emphasis on anatomic, directional, and sectional terminology, basic cellular structure and metabolism, tissue differentiation and characteristics, and organ system structure and function; Specifically the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Three lectures.
Prerequisite: ((1140 and 1140L) or 2110C) and (CHEM 1120C or CHEM 1215).
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 2210L. Human Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory. (1)
This is the first in a series of two laboratory courses designed to introduce laboratory practices and techniques for human anatomy and physiology, from the basic cell structure through the organ system level; specifically the integumentary, skeletal, muscle, and nervous systems.
Pre- or corequisite: 2210.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 2225. Human Anatomy and Physiology II. (3)
Liebrecht.
This course is the second of two that serve as an introduction to human anatomy and physiology for biology majors and allied health students. The course entails describing, explaining, and analyzing structure and function from the submicroscopic to the organismal level with emphasis on specific cellular, tissue, and organ structure and physiology, and organ system structure and function; specifically the endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Additionally, an analysis of these concepts is included: fluid and electrolyte balance, pregnancy, growth and development from zygote to newborn, and heredity.Three lectures.
Prerequisite: 2210.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 2225L. Human Anatomy and Physiology II Laboratory. (1)
This is the second in a series of two laboratory courses designed to introduce laboratory practices and techniques for human anatomy and physiology, from the basic cell structure through the organ system level; specifically the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Three hours lab.
Pre- or corequisite: 2225.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 2305. Microbiology for Health Sciences. (4)
This course introduces the basic principles of microbial structure, genetics, and physiology, virology, parasitology, disease, pathogenicity, epidemiology and immunology. Only some emphasis is given to basic biological principles. The course is designed for those obtaining a career in the health sciences. Not accepted toward the Biology major or minor.
Credit for both this course and BIOL **351/**352L may not be applied toward a degree program.
Prerequisite: ((1140 and 1140L) or 2110C) and (CHEM 1120C or (CHEM 1215 and CHEM 1215L)).
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 2410C. Principles of Biology: Genetics Lecture and Laboratory. (4)
Mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian genetics, chromosomes and inheritance, molecular basis of inheritance, genes to proteins, genetic models (viruses and bacteria), eukaryotic genomes, genetic basis of development and overview of genomes. Three lectures, 1 discussion section.
Prerequisite: 2110C and ((CHEM 1215 or CHEM 1217) and CHEM 1215L).
Pre- or corequisite: (CHEM 1225 or CHEM 1227) and CHEM 1225L).
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 2710 [223]. Biotechnology I [Biotechnology Laboratory Techniques I]. (4)
The goal of this course is to provide you with the core conceptual foundation and hands on experience required to perform basic laboratory techniques used in a biotechnology laboratory. It is essential that these skills are mastered, since this will be the basis for all of the techniques used in future courses. This class will provide theory and experience in lab safety and measurement, bacterial transformations and cloning, recombinant DNA, gel electrophoresis, tissue culture and basic bioinformatics skills.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
BIOL 2715 [224]. Biotechnology II [Biotechnology Laboratory Techniques II]. (4)
The goal of this course is to provide theory and experience with protocols used to characterize and manipulate nucleic acids. This course will reinforce and build upon techniques learned in Biotechnology I. Techniques include DNA isolation and quantification, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, recombinant DNA technology, cloning, DNA sequencing, site-directed mutagenesis, tissue culture, and basic bioinformatics skills. Current issues and topics related to biotechnology will be explored.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Prerequisite: 2710.
BIOL 2720 [225]. Biotechnology III [Biotechnology Laboratory Techniques III]. (3)
Provides theory and experience with protocols used to characterize and manipulate nucleic acids and proteins. Builds on techniques learned in Biotechnology II. Techniques include RNA and protein isolation and quantification, RT-PCR, RNA interference, mammalian transfections, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, 2-D gel analysis, Western blotting, ELISAs, and basic bioinformatics and proteomics skills. Current issues and topics related to biotechnology will be explored.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
BIOL 2996. Topics. (1-6, no limit Δ)
A course exploring a topic not covered by the standard curriculum but of interest to faculty and students in a particular semester.
BIOL 300. Evolution. (3)
C. Witt.
Basic principles, and contemporary issues of evolution. Three lectures.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 303. Ecology and Evolution. (3)
Introduction to concepts in ecology and evolution including history of evolutionary thought; microevolution (including natural selection); speciation; macroevolution; patterns of species diversity and abundance; organismal, behavioral, population, community and ecosystem ecology; and conservation biology.
Prerequisite: 2410C.
Pre- or corequisite: 303L and (MATH 1430 or MATH 1512).
BIOL 303L. Ecology and Evolution Laboratory. (1)
An experiment-based approach to understanding core concepts in ecology and evolution. Students will develop hypotheses, collect data, evaluate their hypotheses, and explain their conclusions in an ecological or evolutionary context.
Corequisite: 303.
BIOL 304. Plant and Animal Form and Function. (3)
Exploration of relationships between structure and function in plants and animals including plant growth; transport; nutrition; reproduction; development; control systems; and animal nutrition; circulation; reproduction; development; and immune, control and nervous systems.
Prerequisite: 303 and 303L and ((CHEM 1225 and CHEM 1225L) or CHEM 1227).
Pre- or corequisite: 304L and (MATH 1430 or MATH 1512).
BIOL 304L. Plant and Animal Form and Function Laboratory. (1)
An experiment-based approach to understanding the relationship between structure and function in plants and animals. Students will develop hypotheses, collect data, evaluate their hypotheses, and explain their conclusions.
Corequisite: 304.
BIOL 310. Principles of Ecology. (3)
Rudgers.
A comprehensive survey of the ecology of individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems. Three lectures, 3 hours lab or field exercise.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 310L. Principles of Ecology Laboratory. (1)
Laboratory for BIOL 310.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Corequisite: 310.
BIOL **351. General Microbiology. (3)
Anatomy, physiology and ecology of microorganisms. Principles of bacterial techniques, host-parasite relationships and infection and immunity. Three lectures.
Credit for both this course and BIOL 2305 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Pre- or corequisite: **352L.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL **352L. General Microbiology Laboratory. (1)
Methods and techniques used in microbiology. 1 hour lab.
Credit for both this course and BIOL 2305 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Pre- or corequisite: **351.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 360L. General Botany. (4)
Overview of plant anatomy, physiology, classification, evolution and ecology. Covers both higher and lower plants. Two lectures, 4 hours lab.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Fall}
BIOL 365. Evolution of Human Sexuality. (3)
Thornhill.
An examination of how natural selection has shaped the sexual psychologies of men and women and how evolutionary theory can guide the study of sexual psychology and behavior.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 379. Conservation Biology. (3)
Importance of biological diversity from ecological, aesthetic, economic and political viewpoints. Extinction as a past, present and future process, and the roles of genetics, levels of biological organization, reserves and laws in the protection and recovery of endangered organisms.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 386L. General Vertebrate Zoology. (4)
Ecology, behavior, sociology, adaptations, and evolution of the vertebrates. Three lectures, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 400. Senior Honors Thesis. (1-3, no limit Δ)
Original theoretical and/or experimental work under supervision. Work for the thesis is carried on throughout the senior year. A maximum of 4 credit hours may be applied toward the Biology major; additional credit hours contribute to upper-level Arts and Sciences requirements.
{Summer, Fall, Spring}
BIOL *401. Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology. (3 or 4, may be repeated three times Δ)
Continually changing selection of sections that satisfy upper-division Cell/Molecular breadth requirement. (CM)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: junior or senior standing and permission of instructor.
BIOL 402 / 502. Topics in Biology. (1-3, no limit Δ)
A maximum of 4 credit hours may be applied toward the Biology major. A maximum of 2 credit hours may be applied toward the Biology minor. Additional credit hours contribute to upper-level Arts and Sciences requirements.
Restriction: senior standing and permission of instructor.
{Summer, Fall, Spring}
BIOL 404 / 504. Topics in Physiology. (3 or 4, may be repeated three times Δ)
Continually changing selection of sections that satisfy upper-division Physiology breadth requirement. (PH)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: junior or senior standing and permission of instructor.
BIOL *406. Topics in Organismal Biology. (3 or 4, may be repeated once Δ)
Continually changing selection of sections that satisfy upper-division Organismal Biology breadth requirement. (OR)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: junior or senior standing and permission of instructor.
BIOL 408L / 508L. Bosque Internship. (3, may be repeated twice Δ)
Eichhorst.
UNM students train as interns with the Bosque Ecosystem Monitoring Program to mentor K-12 students and teachers in monthly data collection at field sites along the Rio Grande floodplain. Study includes ecosystem dynamics and environmental education components. Weekly on- and off-campus meetings (K-12 interaction limited in summer session). (EE)
Prerequisite: 1110 or (304 and 304L).
{Summer, Fall, Spring}
BIOL 409 / 509. Topics in Ecology-Evolution. (3 or 4, may be repeated three times Δ)
Continually changing selection of sections that satisfy upper-division Ecology/Evolution breadth requirement. (EE)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: junior or senior standing and permission of instructor.
BIOL *412. Developmental Biology. (3)
Comparative biology of animal development emphasizing regulatory mechanisms. (CM)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 413. Human Microanatomy: Histology of Organs, Tissues, and Cells. (3)
This lecture course and online lab examine the microscopic structure and function of organs, tissues, and cells while using medical histories of famous people to illustrate concepts of human histology.
Prerequisite: 304L.
BIOL 419 / 519. Topics in Interdisciplinary Science. (3 or 4, may be repeated three times Δ)
Continually changing selection of section that satisfy upper-division Interdisciplinary breadth requirement. (ID)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: junior or senior standing and permission of instructor.
BIOL *425. Molecular Genetics. (3)
Molecular biology of the gene. (CM)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL *429. Molecular Cell Biology I. (3)
Cellular processes with emphasis on membranes; includes reading original landmark papers in cell biology. (CM)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L and (CHEM 2120 or (CHEM **301 and CHEM 303L)).
{Fall}
BIOL *435. Animal Physiology. (3)
Toolson, Wolf.
The function of organ systems in animals, emphasizing neuromuscular, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and renal physiology. (PH)
Prerequisite: *371L or 386L.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
BIOL 444 / 544. Interdisciplinary Museum Science. (3, may be repeated once Δ)
(Also offered as ANTH 444/544, BIOL 544, EPS 444/544, GEOG 444/544, MSST 444/544.) Interdisciplinary overview of how science museum resources are used to study change in human communities, natural, and physical systems over space and time. Course activities emphasize materials science, data science, and team science.
Restriction: instructor permission.
BIOL 445 / 545. Biology of Toxins. (3)
Toolson.
Principles of toxicology; pharmacology and biotransformation of xenobiotics. Mechanism of action, medical uses, and evolutionary ecology of biological toxins. (PH)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 446 / 546. Laboratory Methods in Molecular Biology. (4)
Principles of DNA and RNA purification, enzymatic manipulation of nucleic acids, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis, hybridization procedures and nucleotide sequencing. Two hours lecture, 5 hours lab. (CM)
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Fall}
BIOL 447. Pharmacology: Mechanisms of Drug Action. (3)
This course will provide students a mechanistic understanding of modern drug action in the human body. The course is designed to aid particularly those students on healthcare-related curriculum paths.
Prerequisites: 304 or CHEM **301.
BIOL *450. General Virology. (3)
Structure, properties, and molecular biology of viruses; virus-host interactions, multiplication, pathology, epidemiology, effects of chemical and physical agents, classification. (CM)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L and **351 and **352L.
{Spring}
BIOL *451. Microbial Ecology. (3)
Role of microorganisms in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Emphasis on biogeochemistry and nutrient cycling. Three lectures. (EE)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Fall}
BIOL *455. Ethology: Animal Behavior. (3)
A survey of behavior patterns in animals, with emphasis on adaptive significance. (EE)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 456 / 556. Immunology. (3)
Immunoglobulin structure, antigen-antibody reactions, immunity and hypersensitivity; experimental approach will be emphasized. Three lectures. (PH)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L
or
Pre- or corequisite: BIOC 445.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 457 / 557. Diversity and Evolution of Animal Sexual Strategies. (3)
The course surveys the diversity of strategies in animal sexual systems and examines the evolutionary derivation of those strategies. The influence of varying sexual strategies on animal behavior, morphology, diversity and other attributes is examined.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 461L. Introduction to Tropical Biology. (4)
Cook.
Marine and terrestrial tropical environments, primarily in the Caribbean; topics stressed may include organisms, communities, structure, function, distribution, geology, history, politics, ecology and others. Two lectures, 2 hours lab, one-week field trip to the Caribbean and field trip fee is required. Open to majors and/or non-majors. (EE)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 471 / 571. Plant Physiological Ecology. (3)
Pockman.
Interaction of plants with their environment, covering plant water relations, carbon gain and utilization and soil mineral nutrition. Common research methodologies will be demonstrated in class. (ID)
Prerequisite: 310 and 360L.
BIOL 475 / 575. Community Ecology. (3)
Collins.
Plant community structure and dynamics in North American deserts and grasslands. Field trip to Sevilleta LTER required. (EE)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Spring}
BIOL 480 / 580. Global Change Biology. (3)
Litvak.
An advanced ecology course that gives students a broad overview of biological responses to global change at multiple levels of organization, and the scientific approaches used to study these responses.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 482L / 582L. Parasitology. (4)
The protozoa and worms important in human and veterinary medicine. Emphasis on life histories, epidemiology and ecology of parasites with laboratory practice in identification and experimentation. Three lectures, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 483L. Discovering Arthropods. (4)
Introduction to the non-insect arthropods (millipedes, centipedes, arachnids, crustaceans and their relatives), their diversity and natural history.
Prerequisite:304 and 304L.
BIOL 484 / 584. Biology of Fungi. (4)
Natvig.
Systematics, reproduction and ecology of fungi. Biology of economically and medically important fungi, and the roles of introduced fungi in shaping human history and natural environments.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 485L / 585L. Entomology. (4)
Classification, phylogeny, natural history and literature of insects. Three lectures, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL *486L. Ornithology. (4)
C. Witt, Wolf.
Classification phylogeny, natural history and literature of birds. Field trips required. Three lectures, 3 hours lab. (OR)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL *487L. Ichthyology. (4)
Turner.
Classification, phylogeny, natural history and literature of fishes. All-day field trips and one or more overnight field trips required. Three lectures, 3 hours lab. (OR)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Fall}
BIOL *488L. Herpetology. (4)
Classification, phylogeny, natural history and literature of reptiles and amphibians. All-day field trips and one or more overnight field trips required. Two lectures, 6 hours lab. (OR)
Prerequisite: 386L.
BIOL *489L. Mammalogy. (4)
Cook.
Classification, phylogeny, natural history and literature of mammals. All-day field trips and one or more overnight field trips required. Three lectures, 3 hours lab. (OR)
Prerequisite: 386L.
BIOL *490. Biology of Infectious Organisms. (3)
The full spectrum of infectious entities including prions, viruses and parasitic prokaryotes and eukaryotes will be discussed with respect to their transmissibility, interactions with immune systems and their influences on evolutionary processes and biodiversity issues. (CM)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 491 / 591. Population Genetics. (3)
(Also offered as ANTH 491 / 591)
This course investigates how genetic variation is patterned within and between and how these patterns change over time. Topics include neutral theory, population structure, phylogenetics, coalescent theory, molecular clock, and laboratory methods. (EE)
BIOL 492 / 592. Introductory Mathematical Biology. (3)
Toolson.
Application of mathematics to models of biological systems, from genes to communities. Emphasis placed on broadly-applicable concepts and qualitative solution techniques. Laboratory exercises introduce students to MATLAB programming. (ID)
Prerequisite: (MATH 1430 and MATH 1440) or (MATH 1512 and MATH 1522).
BIOL *494. Biogeography. (3)
Smith.
Geographical distributions of organisms: patterns and their ecological and historical causes. (EE)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL *495. Limnology. (3)
Biological, physical and chemical interactions in fresh water ecosystems. Three lectures. (ID)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L and ((CHEM 1225 and CHEM 1225L) or (PHYS 1240 or PHYS 1320)).
{Spring}
BIOL *496L. Limnology Laboratory. (1)
Techniques for studying the biology, chemistry and physics of aquatic ecosystems.
Pre- or corequisite: *495.
{Spring}
BIOL 497. Principles of Gene Expression. (3)
A detailed and critical study of how different genes are regulated during the life of an organism, principally at the level of transcription. (CM)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 498L / 598L. Genome Editing. (4)
This course will train students in learning and using state of the art techniques to manipulate the DNA sequence of cells. Students will develop targeting vectors and isolate mutant lines for analysis.
Prerequisite: **351 and **352L.
BIOL 499. Undergraduate Problems. (1-3, no limit Δ)
A maximum of 2 credit hours may be applied toward the Biology major. Not accepted toward the Biology minor.
Restriction: junior or senior standing and permission of instructor.
{Summer, Fall, Spring}
BIOL 500. New Graduate Student Seminar. (1)
Course emphasizes investigation, evaluation, and discussion of areas of specialized knowledge or inquiry relevant to the profession or field of study.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
BIOL 502 / 402. Topics in Biology. (1-3, no limit Δ)
A maximum of 4 credit hours may be applied toward the Biology major.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Summer, Fall, Spring}
BIOL 504 / 404. Topics in Physiology. (3 or 4, may be repeated three times Δ)
Continually changing selection of sections that satisfy upper-division Physiology breadth requirement.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
BIOL 508L / 408L. Bosque Internship. (3, may be repeated twice Δ)
Eichhorst.
UNM students train as interns with the Bosque Ecosystem Monitoring Program to mentor K-12 students and teachers in monthly data collection at field sites along the Rio Grande floodplain. Study includes ecosystem dynamics and environmental education components. Weekly on- and off-campus meetings. (K-12 interaction limited in summer session).
{Summer, Fall, Spring}
BIOL 509 / 409. Topics in Ecology-Evolution. (3 or 4, may be repeated three times Δ)
Continually changing selection of sections that satisfy upper-division Ecology/Evolution breadth requirement.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
BIOL 511. Macroecology. (3)
Smith.
A large-scale statistical approach to study the abundance, distribution and diversity of organisms.
BIOL 516. Basic Graduate Ecology. (4)
Major themes in current ecological research, with in-depth exploration of the theoretical and empirical literature of individual, population, community, ecosystem and landscape ecology. Recommended for all Biology Department graduate students in any field of ecology, evolution and behavior. Three lectures, 1.5 hours lab/discussion.
BIOL 517. Basic Graduate Evolution. (4)
An in-depth coverage of the primary literature and ideas in the major areas of evolutionary biology: adaptationism, social evolution, phylogeny, molecular evolution, speciation. Recommended for all Biology Department graduate students in any field of ecology, evolution and behavior. Three lectures, 1.5 hours lab/discussion.
{Spring}
BIOL 519 / 419. Topics in Interdisciplinary Science. (3 or 4, may be repeated three times Δ)
Continually changing selection of section that satisfy upper-division Interdisciplinary breadth requirement. (ID)
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
BIOL 520. Topics in Interdisciplinary Biological and Biomedical Sciences. (3, no limit Δ)
(Also offered as ANTH 620, CS 520, ECE 620, STAT 520)
Varying interdisciplinary topics taught by collaborative scientists from UNM, SFI, and LANL.
BIOL 544 / 444. Interdisciplinary Museum Science. (3, may be repeated once Δ)
(Also offered as ANTH 444/544, BIOL 444, EPS 444/544, GEOG 444/544, MSST 444/544.) Interdisciplinary overview of how science museum resources are used to study change in human communities, natural, and physical systems over space and time. Course activities emphasize materials science, data science, and team science.
Restriction: instructor permission.
BIOL 545 / 445. Biology of Toxins. (3)
Toolson.
Principles of toxicology; pharmacology and biotransformation of xenobiotics. Mechanism of action, medical uses, and evolutionary ecology of biological toxins.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
{Spring}
BIOL 546 / 446. Laboratory Methods in Molecular Biology. (4)
Principles of DNA and RNA purification, enzymatic manipulation of nucleic acids, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis, hybridization procedures and nucleotide sequencing. Two hours lecture, 5 hours lab.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Fall}
BIOL 551. Research Problems. (1-12, no limit Δ)
Individual research into an area proposed by the student and conducted under the direction of a faculty member.
BIOL 556 / 456. Immunology. (3)
Immunoglobulin structure, anitigen-antibody reactions, immunity and hypersensitivity; experimental approach will be emphasized. Three lectures.
{Fall, Spring}
BIOL 557 / 457. Diversity and Evolution of Animal Sexual Strategies. (3)
The course surveys the diversity of strategies in animal sexual systems and examines the evolutionary derivation of those strategies. The influence of varying sexual strategies on animal behavior, morphology, diversity and other attributes is examined.
BIOL 561. Tropical Biology. (4)
Cook.
Marine and terrestrial tropical environments, primarily in the Caribbean; topics stressed may include organisms, communities, structure, function, distribution, geology, history, politics, ecology and others. Two lectures, 2 hours lab, one-week field trip to the Caribbean and field trip fee is required. Open to majors and/or non-majors.
BIOL 571 / 471. Plant Physiological Ecology. (3)
Pockman.
Interaction of plants with their environment, covering plant water relations, carbon gain and utilization and soil mineral nutrition. Common research methodologies will be demonstrated in class. (ID)
Prerequisite: 310 and 360L.
BIOL 575 / 475. Community Ecology. (3)
Collins.
Plant community structure and dynamics in North American deserts and grasslands. Field trip to Sevilleta LTER required.
{Spring}
BIOL 580 / 480. Global Change Biology. (3)
Litvak.
An advanced ecology course that gives students a broad overview of biological responses to global change at multiple levels of organization, and the scientific approaches used to study these responses.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 582L / 482L. Parasitology. (4)
The protozoa and worms important in human and veterinary medicine. Emphasis on life histories, epidemiology and ecology of parasites with laboratory practice in identification and experimentation. Three lectures, 3 hours lab.
BIOL 584 / 484. Biology of Fungi. (4)
Natvig.
Systematics, reproduction and ecology of fungi. Biology of economically and medically important fungi, and the roles of introduced fungi in shaping human history and natural environments.
Prerequisite: 304 and 304L.
BIOL 585L / 485L. Entomology. (4)
Classification, phylogeny, natural history and literature of insects. Three lectures, 3 hours lab.
BIOL 591 / 491. Population Genetics. (3)
(Also offered as ANTH 591 / 491)
This course investigates how genetic variation is patterned within and between and how these patterns change over time. Topics include neutral theory, population structure, phylogenetics, coalescent theory, molecular clock, and laboratory methods.
BIOL 592 / 492. Introductory Mathematical Biology. (3)
Toolson.
Application of mathematics to models of biological systems, from genes to communities. Emphasis placed on broadly-applicable concepts and qualitative solution techniques. Laboratory exercises introduce students to MATLAB programming.
Prerequisite: (MATH 1430 and MATH 1440) or (MATH 1512 and MATH 1522).
BIOL 598L / 498L. Genome Editing. (4)
This course will train students in learning and using state of the art techniques to manipulate the DNA sequence of cells. Students will develop targeting vectors and isolate mutant lines for analysis.
BIOL 599. Master's Thesis. (1-6, no limit Δ)
Faculty-supervised investigative study that results in the development and writing of a master’s thesis.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
BIOL 651. Advanced Field Biology. (4-8)
Approval of Committee on Studies required.
BIOL 699. Dissertation. (3-12, no limit Δ)
Faculty-supervised investigative study that results in the development and writing of a doctoral dissertation.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
