OEB 51 (formerly OEB 110). Biology and Evolution of Invertebrate Animals
Catalog Number: 7873 Enrollment: Limited to 12.
Gonzalo Giribet and Cassandra G. Extavour
Half course (spring term). Lectures Tu., Th., 10–11:30; laboratory on Wednesdays with hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Introduction to invertebrate diversity, emphasizing the anatomy, biology and evolutionary relationships of the main animal phyla including sponges, mollusks, annelids and arthropods among others. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the broad diversity of animal forms and their adaptations to different ecosystems and how these phenomena shape animal evolution. Lectures will be complemented with a mandatory weekly lab and a field trip to different areas of outstanding marine diversity in the Caribbean.
Note: Field trip to the Caribbean for research during spring break.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 (or BS 51) or OEB 53 (formerly BS 53) or EPS 181, or permission of instructor required.
OEB 52 (formerly OEB 124). Biology of Plants
Catalog Number: 1343 Enrollment: Limited to 16.
Elena M. Kramer, Jacques Dumais, and N. Michele Holbrook
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30, one afternoon laboratory per week, plus occasional field trips. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Introduction to the structure, diversity, and physiology of plants with an emphasis on evolutionary relationships and adaptations to life on land. Topics include growth, resource acquisition, interactions with other organisms (i.e., fungi, bacteria, insects), reproduction, and survival in extreme environments. Laboratory sessions provide an overview of plant and diversity and an introduction to basic physiological processes.
Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core area requirement for Science B.
OEB 53 (formerly Biological Sciences 53). Evolutionary Biology
Catalog Number: 3342
Andrew J. Berry and Hopi E. Hoekstra
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30.
The course covers micro- and macro-evolution, ranging in its focus from population genetics through molecular evolution to the grand patterns of the fossil record. Topics emphasized include both natural and sexual selection, the ecological context of adaptation, genomic and developmental mechanisms of evolutionary innovation, speciation, phylogenetics, and evolutionary approaches to human problems.
Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core requirement for Science B.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1b or BS 50 or permission of instructor.
OEB 54. Biology of the Fungi
Catalog Number: 9326
Donald H. Pfister and Anne Pringle
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30, and a weekly laboratory on Tu., 2:30 –5. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
This course explores the fascinating diversity of the kingdom fungi, including evolution, ecology and morphology. All major groups of fungi, from smuts to molds, will be included. Students will use a variety of techniques to learn about fungi and their activities.
Note: There is a weekly laboratory and at least one weekend field trip and several afternoon field trips are required (dates to be announced).
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1a and 1b or permission of instructor.
OEB 55 (formerly Biological Sciences 55). Ecology: Populations, Communities, and Ecosystems
Catalog Number: 3365
Paul R. Moorcroft
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 10, and a weekly discussion section, and two field trips on either Saturdays or Sundays during mid-April to early-May. EXAM GROUP: 3
Relationships of organisms to their environment at the individual, population, and community level. Topics in pure and applied ecology including adaptations to physical environment, competition, population dynamics, predator-prey interactions, herbivore effects, community ecology, ecosystem structure, stability and function, and resource management.
Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core requirement for Science B.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 1b and prior biology experience.
OEB 57 (formerly Biological Sciences 57). Animal Behavior
Catalog Number: 2539
Naomi E. Pierce and Bence P. Olveczky
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., at 10; Guest lectures and film screenings W., at 7:30 pm; ninety minutes of discussion section weekly. EXAM GROUP: 12
A review of the behavior of animals under natural conditions, with emphasis on both mechanistic and evolutionary approaches. Topics include classical ethology; behavioral endocrinology; behavioral genetics; learning and memory; communication; orientation, migration and biological rhythms; optimal foraging; evolutionary stable strategies; sexual selection; parental investment and mating systems; selfishness, altruism, and reciprocity; and sociality in vertebrates and invertebrates.
Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core area requirement for Science B.
OEB 59 (formerly OEB 104). Plants and Human Affairs
Catalog Number: 5281
Donald H. Pfister and Charles C. Davis
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 10. EXAM GROUP: 3
An introduction to the uses of plants by humans. Topics include the form, structure and genetics of plants related to their use as sources of food, shelter, fiber, flavors, beverages, drugs, and medicines. Plant structure and reproduction are studied in lecture and laboratory with a particular focus on relationships between the plant’s structural, chemical, or physiological attributes and the utility plant.
Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core requirement for Science B.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or BS 51 or permission of the instructor.
OEB 91r. Supervised Reading
Catalog Number: 6374
David A. Haig and members of the Department
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Supervised reading on topics not covered by regular courses. For OEB concentrators, work may be supervised by faculty in other departments, provided it is co-sponsored by an OEB faculty member. For non-concentrators, work must be directed by an OEB faculty member. Students must submit a registration request to the OEB Undergraduate Office before enrollment. Students cannot take OEB 91r and 99r simultaneously with the same director.
Prerequisite: Four terms of biology.
*OEB 99r. Supervised Research
Catalog Number: 7744
David A. Haig and members of the Department
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Course taken in one or more semesters to obtain credit for independent research, including research toward a senior thesis. Work should be directed by an OEB faculty member or have an OEB faculty sponsor. All students must submit registration materials for OEB 99r at the time of enrollment.
Note: Laboratory safety session required.
OEB 103. Plant Systematics and Evolution
Catalog Number: 8704
Charles C. Davis
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30, and a four hour lab on Thursdays. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
An introduction to the diversity and evolution of vascular plants. The course focuses mainly on flowering plants because of their dominant role on the earth, but lycophytes, ferns, and gymnosperms are studied as well. A phylogeny of vascular plants provides the framework for their evolution and diversification. Related subjects, including plant habitats, biogeography, phylogenetics, herbaria, nomenclature, and pollination biology are also presented in lecture and laboratory.
Note: There are two midterms, a final, frequent lab quizzes, and an optional trip to the Brazilian state of Bahia to study plants in their native setting.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or BS 51 or permission of instructor.
[OEB 106. Plant Development and Differentiation]
Catalog Number: 4559
Elena M. Kramer
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
A comprehensive lecture course on the developmental biology of plants from fertilization through all phases of vegetative and reproductive growth. Material includes both morphological and genetic studies. Although the main focus of the course is angiosperms, examples are drawn from other lineages of land plants as well. Additional topics include control of cell division and elongation, signal transduction, and hormone response.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: OEB 124 (formerly Bio 24) and Life Sciences 1b or permission of the instructor.
OEB 107. Evolution of Plant Life in Geologic Time
Catalog Number: 1318
Andrew H. Knoll
Half course (spring term). M., W., at 10, and a weekly 2-hour lab to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 3
Origin, evolution, dispersal, paleoecology, and geologic history of the major groups of the plant kingdom. Laboratory study of representative groups, living and fossil.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or permission of instructor.
OEB 111. Plants and Environmental Sensing
Catalog Number: 7832 Enrollment: Limited to 30.
Sarah L. Mathews (Arnold Arboretum)
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 11. EXAM GROUP: 4
The exquisite capacity of plants for fine-tuning their growth and development to environmental cues provides evidence of the systems they use for monitoring their environments. This course covers the systems used to sense and respond to light (quality, quantity, direction, periodicity), gravity, temperature, neighboring vegetation, mutualistic partners, pathogens, parasites, herbivores, and abiotic stressors.
Prerequisite: OEB 10, OEB 52, or approval of the instructor.
OEB 113. Paleobiological Perspectives on Ecology and Evolution
Catalog Number: 1777
Charles R. Marshall
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Introduction to the analysis of key problems in paleobiology, with an emphasis on how evolutionary and ecological processes operate on geologic timescales. Topics include: the evolution of ecosystems; dissecting biodiversity dynamics; determining times of origin and extinction; assessing the absolute completeness of the fossil record; stratigraphy and phylogeny reconstruction; theoretical and functional morphology.
Prerequisite: Prior biology experience or permission of instructor.
OEB 114. Vertebrate Viviparity
Catalog Number: 4953
David A. Haig
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 11. EXAM GROUP: 4
Viviparity has evolved many times in vertebrate phylogeny. The course reviews the diversity of parental care in vertebrates and explores the selective forces that have favored the evolution of live-bearing. The evidence for intergenerational conflicts is considered.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1b or permission of instructor.
OEB 115. Evolutionary Developmental Biology in Animals
Catalog Number: 9892
Arkhat Abzhanov
Half course (fall term). M., F., at 1. EXAM GROUP: 6
A lecture course in evolutionary developmental biology. Main principles and mechanisms of development as illustrated on both invertebrate and vertebrate animal model systems. In this course we will discuss how animal embryos develop adult body plans on cellular and molecular level. Particular emphasis will be placed on how knowledge of developmental biology helps us understand major evolutionary transitions and the origin of innovation in animal evolution.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1a and 1b, or permission of instructor. OEB 10, MCB 52, and MCB 54 are recommended but not required. Open to students from any concentration.
[OEB 118. Biological Oceanography]
Catalog Number: 7752
James J. McCarthy
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
The ocean as an ecological system, with focus on environmental-organismal interactions that regulate plankton production and transfer to higher trophic levels. Specific topics include bloom events, the limits to fish harvest, and the effects of climate change on ocean systems. Plankton demonstrations and optional coastal research vessel day trip.
Note: Expected to be given in 2010–11. For biology and other natural science concentrators.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or BS 51, and Life Sciences 1a, Physical Sciences 1 or permission of instructor.
OEB 119. Deep Sea Biology
Catalog Number: 1397
Peter R. Girguis
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
The oceans contain 97% of Earth’s water, and host the most disparate ecosystems on the planet. This course provides an introduction to deep ocean habitats, macrofauna and microorganisms. Emphasis is placed on the physiological adaptations of organisms to their environment, as well the role of microbes in mediating oceanic biogeochemical cycles.
[*OEB 120. Physiology of Plants]
Catalog Number: 2554
N. Michele Holbrook
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Introduction to the physiology, biochemistry, and development of plants. Topics include photosynthesis, energy balance, transport processes, growth, biomechanics, and reproduction. Emphasis on the physiological basis for structural adaptations of plants in relation to environmental constraints and on mechanisms leading to developmental and physiological integration at the whole-plant level. Laboratory sessions provide an introduction to basic measurement techniques in plant physiology.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
*OEB 121a. Advanced Structure and Physiology of the Vertebrates
Catalog Number: 4049
Andrew A. Biewener, George V. Lauder, and Daniel E. Lieberman
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Introduces students to experimental techniques used to investigate the structure and physiology of vertebrates. Each instructor offers research projects that are undertaken in their laboratory (limit 5 students per instructor). Students meet to introduce their project, discuss their work and progress, and to present their final results. An extensive commitment of time in the laboratory is required. Grades are based on the work completed, the oral presentation, and a short research paper.
Note: Laboratory safety session required.
Prerequisite: LS2 or OEB 102 or equivalent preferred.
*OEB 121b. Advanced Structure and Physiology of the Vertebrates
Catalog Number: 4670
Andrew A. Biewener, George V. Lauder, and Daniel E. Lieberman
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Students may extend the initial project undertaken in Biology 121a into a thesis research project.
Note: Laboratory safety session required.
Prerequisite: OEB 121a (formerly Bio 121a) and permission of instructor.
[OEB 122 (formerly OEB 122a). Field Research in Ecology and Conservation]
Catalog Number: 9324
David R. Foster and N. Michele Holbrook
Half course (spring term). M., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Introduces students to advanced concepts in ecology and conservation in preparation for research through focused discussion and field trips with individual and collaborating faculty and science teams. Students will learn to read/critique scientific literature, prepare annotated bibliographies and write independent research proposals. Topics include long term ecological research at the Harvard Forest; field sampling methods; data management; and interdisciplinary studies in ecology and conservation. Appropriate for undergraduates interested in ecology, environment and related fields.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: OEB 10, OEB 55 (formerly BS 55) or equivalent.
[OEB 123. Biology of Symbiosis]
Catalog Number: 0508
Colleen M. Cavanaugh
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
An examination of the major aspects of endosymbiosis with emphasis on mutualism, although some parasitic interactions are covered. Topics include origins of the eukaryotic cell, specificity and recognition of partners, distribution and diversity of associations, and coevolution of host and symbiont.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1b (or BS 50), OEB 10 (or BS 51), and MCB 52 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
[OEB 125. Molecular Ecology and Evolution]
Catalog Number: 2691
Scott V. Edwards and guest lecturers
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
A survey of empirical applications of DNA technologies to the study of evolutionary, ecological and behavioral processes in natural populations. Topics to be covered will span a variety of hierarchical levels, timescales, and taxonomic groups, and will include the evolution of genes, genomes and proteins; evolution of multigene families and molecular clocks; population genetic and phylogenetic principles of speciation and phylogeography; DNA fingerprinting in forensics and behavioral ecology; evolutionary genetics of disease resistance; and conservation genetics.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Weekly computer laboratories will introduce the use of the internet and computational software in DNA sequence alignment and phylogenetic and population genetic analysis.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1b, OEB 10, OEB 53 or MCB 52.
[OEB 130. Patterns and Processes in Fish Diversity]
Catalog Number: 4624
Karel F. Liem and George V. Lauder
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 1. EXAM GROUP: 6
Fishes inhabit diverse aquatic environments including deep seas, intertidal zones, coral reefs, polar waters, the vast Amazonian basin, and great East African lakes. A single fish species may occupy diverse environments through extraordinary long distance horizontal and vertical migrations. To explore this unparalleled diversity, the course emphasizes bridging traditional academic boundaries with integrative analyses of the biology underlying rapid evolutionary radiations and stasis.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1b (or BS 50), or LS2, and OEB 10 (or BS 51), or permission of instructor.
OEB 139. Evolution of the Vertebrates
Catalog Number: 8562
Farish A. Jenkins, Jr.
Half course (fall term). M., W., 12:10–1:30. EXAM GROUP: 5, 6
A survey of the origination and evolution of the major groups of vertebrates, with emphasis on the anatomical and physiological transformations that occurred during the transitions to diverse lineages of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. The structures and functions exhibited in extant taxa are explored with perspectives from the fossil record.
Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core area requirement for Science B.
OEB 152. Population Genetics
Catalog Number: 0903
Daniel L. Hartl
Half course (spring term). W., 2–5. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Introduction to population genetic theory. Covers deterministic and stochastic theory of gene frequencies, and coalescent theory of sample-based statistics. Emphasis on patterns of genetic variation within and between populations, and how these can serve as the basis for inference about mutation, genetic drift, migration, natural selection, and population structure.
Prerequisite: OEB 53 (or BS 53), calculus, and knowledge of statistics and probability.
OEB 155r. Biology of Insects
Catalog Number: 2346 Enrollment: Limited to 15.
Naomi E. Pierce and Michael R. Canfield
Half course (fall term). F., 2–3:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
An introduction to the major groups of insects. The life history, morphology, physiology, and ecology of the main taxa are examined through a combination of lecture, lab, and field exercises. Topics include the phylogeny of terrestrial arthropods with a review of the extant orders, an analysis of abiotic and biotic factors regulating populations, including water balance, temperature, migration, parasitism, mutualism, sociality, insect/plant interactions, medical entomology, and the use of insects in biological control.
Prerequisite: With permission of instructor.
[OEB 156r. Tropical Insect Systematics]
Catalog Number: 0584
Brian D. Farrell
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
A lab course on the systematics and diagnosis of the 150 principal families across 26 orders of insects, including acquisition of the skills to perform rapid onsite insect biodiversity assessment and documentation in the field. Learning to identify insects to the family level using microscopes and a teaching collection. Includes a spring break fieldtrip to the Dominican Republic, during which student teams will collect and process insect specimens for database entry onsite, including digital imaging.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or BS 51 or OEB 53 (formerly BS 53) or permission of instructor.
OEB 157. Global Change Biology
Catalog Number: 7055
Paul R. Moorcroft and James J. McCarthy
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Examines natural and anthropogenic changes in the earth system and their impact on the structure and functioning of terrestrial and oceanic ecosystems. Topics include earth system history, fossil fuel emissions, changing water chemistry, ozone, species extinctions and invasions, and human exploitation of natural resources.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or BS 51 or OEB 53 (formerly BS 53) and Mathematics 1a required. OEB 55 (formerly BS 55) recommended.
[OEB 167. Herpetology]
Catalog Number: 4070
James Hanken and Jonathan Losos
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30; Lab: W., 2–5. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
An introduction to the biology of amphibians and reptiles. Lectures and laboratories examine the morphology, systematics, natural history, behavior, ecology, evolutionary relationships, and biogeography of all major taxa.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. The course is planning a week-long field trip during spring break.
OEB 168r. Sociobotany
Catalog Number: 5092
David A. Haig
Half course (spring term). W., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
A study of the diversity and evolution of plant life cycles, with an emphasis on interactions between the generations.
[OEB 173. Comparative Biomechanics]
Catalog Number: 9667
Andrew A. Biewener and Jacques Dumais
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10. EXAM GROUP: 10, 11
An exploration of how animals and plants contend with their physical environment, considering their biomaterial properties, structural form, and mechanical interaction with the environment. Through lectures, seminar discussions, and student presentations based on readings, students are introduced to topics related to biomechanical performance.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 1a and 1b and Physics 11a; Mathematics 21a recommended, or permission of instructor.
OEB 174r. Topics in Behavioral Ecology
Catalog Number: 5199 Enrollment: Limited to 15.
Naomi E. Pierce
Half course (spring term). M., 2:30–4:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Current issues in neuroethology, behavior, and behavioral ecology are examined, with topics that change each year. Topics in previous years have included: evolution of sex, evolution of cooperation, evolution of communication, and learning and Memory. The topic this year will focus on comparative methods in studying the evolution of behavior. The course involves invited speakers and discussion of the primary literature.
Prerequisite: OEB 57 (formerly BS 57) or MCB 80 or Science B-29 or permission of instructor.
OEB 181. Systematics
Catalog Number: 5459
Gonzalo Giribet and Charles R. Marshall
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30; laboratory on Wednesdays with hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Theory and practice of systematics, emphasizing issues associated with homology statements and alignments, methods of tree reconstruction, and hypothesis evaluation. The course combines theoretical considerations, paying special attention to algorithmic aspects of phylogenetics, with the use of different computer programs for conducting evolutionary and phylogenetic analyses.
Prerequisite: OEB 53 (formerly BS 53), or permission of instructor required. Familiarity with computers, especially Mac and PC platforms.
OEB 189. Comparative Cell Morphogenesis
Catalog Number: 2195
Jacques Dumais
Half course (fall term). M., W., 2:30–4:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
A survey of the different modes of cellular development in unicellular organisms and in specialized cells within multicellular organisms. Lectures will cover morphogenesis in bacteria, coccolithophores, diatoms, yeasts, fungal hyphae, ciliates, neurons, and red blood cells among others. The emphasis will be on the molecular and biophysical controls of cell shape. The functional significance of cell shape will also be discussed. Laboratories will introduce the students to the organisms studied in class.
Prerequisite: MCB 54 (formerly BS 54) recommended.
OEB 190. Biology and Diversity of Birds
Catalog Number: 3870 Enrollment: Limited to 12.
Scott V. Edwards
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1 and two hours weekly of specimen laboratory. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
An introduction to the biology of birds. Covers the fossil record and theories for avian origins, physiology and anatomy, higher-level systematics and field characters of the ~27 orders, speciation processes, nesting and courtship behavior, vocalizations, mating systems and sexual selection, cooperative breeding, demography and conservation. Optional field trip during spring break. Laboratories will consist of gross anatomy, bird watching excursions in the Cambridge area, field techniques and specimen preparation, and systematic study of avian groups using the collections of the Museum of Comparative Zoology.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or OEB 53 or permission of the instructor.
OEB 191. Physiological and Biochemical Adaptation
Catalog Number: 2314
Peter R. Girguis and Stacey A. Combes
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
This course examines how metabolic systems in organisms, from microbes to mammals, have evolved to maintain function throughout the wide range of habitats found on Earth. Emphasis is placed on organismal physiology and biochemical evolution in response to the environment, including the oxygenation of earth’s atmosphere and the so-called "extreme" environments. Topics will include pH regulation, thermo-tolerance, desiccation, locomotion, as well as numerous novel physiological adaptations.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or BS 51 or MCB 56 (formerly BS 56) or permission of the instructor.
OEB 192. Microbial Evolution
Catalog Number: 5019
Christopher Marx
Half course (fall term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
An examination of the evolution of microbes through an integration of lectures and discussion of primary literature. Additionally, students will be involved in two experimental evolution projects: one involving microbes in the laboratory, the other with ’digital organisms.’ We will focus on a series of broad questions for which we will draw upon knowledge from both lab-based study of experimental microcosms and comparative studies of natural populations.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1a and Life Sciences 1b or equivalent required. OEB 53 (formerly BS 53) or equivalent recommended but not required.
OEB 193 (formerly OEB 122b). Advanced Research in Ecology and Conservation
Catalog Number: 7742
David R. Foster and N. Michele Holbrook
Half course (fall term). M., 1–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Unique peer learning/workshop format provides formal training to students actively engaged in the research process. Students will develop publications, presentations, senior theses, and/or interdisciplinary collaborations from current or recent field/lab research activities. Includes focused reading and discussion of student work and relevant literature, plus field trips to the Harvard Forest for hands-on training and workshops in scientific writing/presentations, mapping/graphics, & experimental design/analysis. Tailored to the individual research needs of enrollees. Can supplement or substitute for 99r.
Prerequisite: OEB 10, OEB 55 (formerly BS 55), OEB 122 or equivalent.
OEB 211r. Form, Function, and Evolution
Catalog Number: 2056
Karel F. Liem
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Evolutionary mechanisms underlying the diversity in design of living vertebrates. Recent advances of topics selected by faculty and students.
[OEB 212r. Advanced Topics in Plant Physiology]
Catalog Number: 2176
N. Michele Holbrook
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
A critical discussion of current research in plant physiology including measurement techniques, modeling, and experimental approaches. In 2007 we will focus on how quantitative predictions drawn from the study of extant plants can be used to illuminate and constrain the functional biology of fossil lineages. We will critically examine quantitative models of fluid flow in stems and leaves, stressing the physiological consequences of anatomical features preservable in fossils, and then evaluate the utility of these and other approaches in the physiological reconstruction of selected Paleozoic fossils.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: OEB 120 (formerly Bio 120,) OEB 107 (formerly Bio 107,) or permission of instructor.
*OEB 214. Biology of Acoustic Communities
Catalog Number: 2422 Enrollment: Limited to 12.
Brian D. Farrell
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Four principal animal groups (insects, frogs, birds and mammals) sing and call in habitats around the world. We discuss the ecology, evolution and characteristics of such acoustic communities and the hypothesis that their members compete for "bandwidth". We discuss readings on acoustic ecology and evolution, and listen to (and watch, via spectrum analysis) soundscapes from selected tropical and temperate habitats. The capstone will be a fieldtrip to record natural soundscapes.
Prerequisite: OEB 10 or permission of the instructor.
[OEB 221. Microbial Diversity]
Catalog Number: 1234
Colleen M. Cavanaugh
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Examines the remarkable diversity of prokaryotes. Physiological, genetic, ecological, and evolutionary characteristics of Bacteria and Archaea divisions are discussed, as well as the relation of phenotype to phylogeny.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1b (formerly BS 50) and OEB 10 or BS 51, and MCB 52 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
OEB 223. Topics in Neurogenetics
Catalog Number: 1434
Yun Zhang
Half course (spring term). W., 4–6. EXAM GROUP: 9
Review of current literature related to genetic effects on neural functions including: (1) genetic contributions to mental illness; (2) current understanding of underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases; (3) genes and behaviors; (4) modulations of neuronal functions by environment and experiences.
Note: The course is primarily planned for new graduate students, but it is also open to interested senior undergraduates who have taken OEB 57 (formerly BS 57) or MCB 80 and obtained permission from the instructor.
OEB 227. Molecular Approaches to Environmental Microbiology
Catalog Number: 4444
Colleen M. Cavanaugh
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Critical review and discussion of current advances in our understanding of biodiversity, community structure, and metabolic activities in Bacteria and Archaea resulting from the application of cellular and molecular approaches in diverse environments
Prerequisite: Earth and Planetary Sciences 30 or permission of instructor.
*OEB 230. Speciation - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 0122
Hopi E. Hoekstra
Half course (fall term). M., at 2. EXAM GROUP: 7
This discussion based course covers the latest advances in speciation with a focus on controverial issues and new approaches. The course combines readings from Speciation chapters and the recent primary literature with guest lecturers and discussion from experts in the field.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
*OEB 234. Topics in Marine Biology
Catalog Number: 4637
Robert M. Woollacott
Half course (spring term). W., 2–5. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Human impacts on marine life and ecosystems of the sea.
Note: Weekly class meeting including several laboratories and demonstrations and one field trip through the course of term.
*OEB 251. Introduction to Vertebrate Surgery
Catalog Number: 2075 Enrollment: Limited to 16.
Arthur L. Lage (Medical School)
Half course (fall term). W., 1–4. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7, 8
Teaches the basic principles of aseptic surgery with emphasis on practicality. Students learn basic "open” surgery as well as newer high-tech videoscopic minimally invasive technique, obtaining hands-on experience in scrubbing, gowning, and sterile technique while serving as anesthetist and surgeon.
Note: Intended for the student interested in the application of surgical technique in higher studies in biology and related disciplines.
Prerequisite: Comparative anatomy, Life Sciences 2 (or OEB 102), or equivalent course.
[OEB 252. Coalescent Theory]
Catalog Number: 0118
John R. Wakeley
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 9. EXAM GROUP: 2
The mathematics and computation of ancestral inference in population genetics. Theory relates observable genetic data to factors of evolution such as mutation, genetic drift, migration, natural selection, and population structure.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: OEB 152 or permission of instructor: calculus and statistics or probability.
OEB 253r. Evolutionary Genetics Seminar
Catalog Number: 8104
John R. Wakeley
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Readings and discussion of primary literature in population and evolutionary genetics.
Prerequisite: OEB 152 or consent of instructor.
OEB 255. Nature and Regulation of Marine Ecosystems
Catalog Number: 7753
James J. McCarthy and guest lecturers
Half course (fall term). F., 10–12.
A presentation of topics that are of current interest in marine ecosystems. Emphasis on identification and quantification of biological and environmental factors important in the regulation of community structure in the intertidal, deep benthic, and planktonic realms.
Prerequisite: OEB 55 (formerly BS 55) and OEB 118.
OEB 261r (formerly Biology 261r). Developmental Mechanisms of Evolutionary Change
Catalog Number: 8451
Arkhat Abzhanov and James Hanken
Half course (spring term). M., 3–4:30. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
A graduate seminar course in evolutionary developmental biology. In this course, we will discuss the latest advances in understanding the cellular and molecular developmental mechanisms that underlie important evolutionary phenomena. We will emphasize major evolutionary transitions and the origin of morphological innovations in animal evolution.
Prerequisite: LS 1A and LS 1B or by permission of theinstructor.
[OEB 268r. Topics in Plant Developmental Genetics]
Catalog Number: 5020
Elena M. Kramer
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
This lecture/seminar reviews the literature related to a particular topic plant developmental genetics. Additionally, participants are familiarized with the advantages and pitfalls of molecular techniques, and the process of project design.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: OEB 106 and Life Sciences 1b or BS 50, or MCB 52 or by permission of instructor.
OEB 275r. Neutrality, Selection and Population History
Catalog Number: 5004
Scott V. Edwards
Half course (spring term). M., 1:30–3. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
A survey of the cutting-edge frontiers of evolutionary biology. Modules consist of paired Monday-Wed. and occasional Friday lectures and professor-led learning sessions. Sessions include paper discussions, debates on a specific topic, or introduction to novel computer programs in phylogenetics. Topics include macroevolution and the history of life, evolutionary developmental biology, genome evolution and population genetics, phylogenetics and the comparative method, natural and sexual selection, speciation, evolutionary dynamics and cooperation, microbial evolution, evolutionary ecology and co-speciation
Prerequisite: OEB 53, OEB 152 or equivalent.
*OEB 276. Models of Development
Catalog Number: 1448
Jacques Dumais
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
A lecture and discussion course on the modeling of animal and plant development. Topics will include analysis of gene networks, positional signaling, reaction-diffusion systems, mechano-chemistry and tissue mechanics and remodeling. Emphasis will be on models of development that are mechanistic and well supported experimentally.
Prerequisite: Math 1a and b; Math 21a and b recommended, or permission of instructor.
OEB 278. Ecological Genetics
Catalog Number: 0732
Anne E. Pringle
Half course (spring term). M., 2–4:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Ecological genetics explores the adjustments and adaptations of wild populations to their environment. We will use the primary literature to explore how diverse organisms are actually evolving in nature, and challenge the traditional divide between evolution and ecology.
[OEB 279. Topics in Microbial Metabolic Systems]
Catalog Number: 4560
Peter R. Girguis and Christopher J. Marx
Half course (fall term). M., 12:30–3. EXAM GROUP: 5, 6, 7
This course covers microbial metabolism, with a focus on quantitative analyses and modeling. Topics will range from cellular biochemical networks to biogeochemical cycling, with an emphasis on integrating the linkages between processes across scales.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Biochemistry or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
*OEB 299r. Forest Practice and Research
Catalog Number: 6128
David R. Foster
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Field and laboratory research into the history, biology, ecology, culture, and economic problems of local, regional, and world forests. Individual research projects.
Note: Seminars, conferences, field, and laboratory work at the Harvard Forest, Petersham, Massachusetts.
*OEB 304. Mycology
Catalog Number: 4702
Donald H. Pfister 4344
*OEB 305. The Fundamental Interconnectedness of All Things
Catalog Number: 3647
David A. Haig 1629
*OEB 307. Biomechanics, Physiology and Musculoskeletal Biology
Catalog Number: 2831
Andrew A. Biewener 1446
*OEB 308. Evolution of Floral Developmental Mechanisms
Catalog Number: 5535
Elena M. Kramer 3791
*OEB 310. Metazoan Systematics
Catalog Number: 3975
Gonzalo Giribet 3854
*OEB 311. Ecosystem Ecology
Catalog Number: 6416
Paul R. Moorcroft 4174
*OEB 313. Paleobiological Approaches to Evolution and Ecology
Catalog Number: 6679
Charles R. Marshall 2823
*OEB 320. Biomechanics and Evolution of Vertebrates
Catalog Number: 8915
George V. Lauder 2375
*OEB 323. Advanced Vertebrate Anatomy
Catalog Number: 8188
Farish A. Jenkins, Jr. 3558
*OEB 324. Molecular Evolution
Catalog Number: 2356
Daniel L. Hartl 3278
*OEB 325. Marine Biology
Catalog Number: 4643
Robert M. Woollacott 4135
*OEB 334. Behavioral Ecology
Catalog Number: 8279
Naomi E. Pierce 2889
*OEB 335. Ichthyology and Functional Anatomy of Fishes
Catalog Number: 4640
Karel F. Liem 3843
*OEB 339. Whole-Plant Physiology
Catalog Number: 5214
N. Michele Holbrook 1220
*OEB 341. Coevolution
Catalog Number: 2998
Brian D. Farrell 1985
*OEB 343. Microbial Ecology and Symbiosis
Catalog Number: 1288
Colleen M. Cavanaugh 2538
*OEB 345. Biological Oceanography
Catalog Number: 4676
James J. McCarthy 4343
*OEB 355. Evolutionary Developmental Biology
Catalog Number: 9192
James Hanken 2719
*OEB 357. Population Biology and Mathematical Biology
Catalog Number: 5392
William H. Bossert 1049
*OEB 359. Paleobotany
Catalog Number: 0248
Andrew H. Knoll 7425 (on leave fall term)
*OEB 360. Plant Biophysics
Catalog Number: 8421
Jacques Dumais 4719
*OEB 361. Somatic Evolution of Cancer
Catalog Number: 5791
Martin A. Nowak 4568
*OEB 362. Research in Molecular Evolution
Catalog Number: 2367
Scott V. Edwards 5049
*OEB 363. Plant Diversity and Evolution
Catalog Number: 0001
Charles C. Davis 5263
*OEB 364. Ecological Physiology of Microbes
Catalog Number: 0002
Peter R. Girguis 5264
*OEB 365. Evolution of Microbes
Catalog Number: 0003
Christopher J. Marx 5265
*OEB 366. Ecological Genetics and Mycology
Catalog Number: 0004
Anne Pringle 5266
*OEB 367. Evolutionary and Ecological Diversity
Catalog Number: 0420
Jonathan Losos 5449 (on leave spring term)
*OEB 368. Oral Developmental Biology
Catalog Number: 7087
Arkhat Abzhanov 5597
*OEB 369. Molecular Genetics of Neuroscience
Catalog Number: 5175
Yun Zhang 5780
*OEB 370. Mammalian Evolutionary Genetics
Catalog Number: 3072
Hopi E. Hoekstra 5814
*OEB 399. Topics in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology
Catalog Number: 0764
Colleen M. Cavanaugh 2538
Half course (fall term). W., 5–7 pm.
Presents the research interests and experiences of scientists in organismic and evolutionary biology. Specific topics treated vary from year to year.
Note: Required of all first-year graduate students in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology.