Biological Sciences
http://www.pacific.edu/college/biology
Phone: (209) 946-2181
Location: Biology Building, South Campus
Craig Vierra, Department Director of Graduate Program and Chair
Joan Lin-Cereghino, Department Director of Graduate Program and Assistant Chair
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Biological Sciences
For a graduate degree in the Department of Biological Sciences, the candidate may take a broadly based program in biology or may specialize in areas such as molecular and cellular biology, physiology or ecology.
Candidates for the master of science degree in biological sciences must hold a bachelor’s degree that includes the equivalent of the baccalaureate program in biology at University of the Pacific. Candidates holding the bachelor’s degree with a major in fields other than biology may be accepted provided deficiencies in biology are made up.
Master of Science in Biological Sciences
Students must complete a minimum of 32 units with a Pacific cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in order to earn the master of science degree in biological sciences.
I. Required Graduate Courses
BIOL Electives (Four courses at the 200 level, one course may come from the 100 level if cross listed with a 200 level graduate course excluding Research and Independent Study) 16
II. Thesis/Research
BIOL 297 Graduate Research 4-6 BIOL 299 Thesis 2 OR 4
III. Electives
BIOL Electives (2 courses at the 100 or 200 level or from CHEM 141) 8
Note: 1) Students may count a maximum of six (6) units of Research and/or Independent Study toward their degree. 2) Students are encouraged, where appropriate, to select courses offered by other departments or units of the University, such as Chemistry or the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Biological Sciences Courses
BIOL 101. Genetics. 4 Units.
Emphasis of study is heritable variations and their relation to structure, behavior and function of genetic material. This basic course is for students concentrating on biological sciences, medical sciences and liberal arts. Recommended: Sophomore standing. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061.
BIOL 111. Anatomy and Physiology. 4 Units.
This lecture and laboratory course covers the structure and function of the major physiological systems of the human body, and it is intended primarily for students in the Dental Hygiene program. Students taking BIOL 111 do not receive credit for either BIOL 071 or BIOL 081. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061.
BIOL 122. Principles of Immunology. 4 Units.
The fundamental properties of antigens and antibodies are covered with an emphasis on the theories of antibody production, tolerance, transplantation immunity, autoimunity and tumor immunology. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and CHEM 121.
BIOL 128. Histology. 4 Units.
A study of the tissues which comprise the organs of the body is the focus. This course is limited to human tissues. Thin sections of organs will be studied and their structure related to function. Credit only given once for BIOL 128 or BIOL 129. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061.
BIOL 129. Histology Online. 3 Units.
This is a non-lab, online version of BIOL 128. Credit is only given once for BIOL 128 or BIOL 129. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061; BIOL 101 recommended.
BIOL 130. Plant Kingdom. 4 Units.
Through lectures, laboratories and field trips, students are introduced to the morphology, reproduction biology and environmental requirements of all major groups of plants. Included are material bearing on the evolutionary relationships within and between each major group. Individual projects are required. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061.
BIOL 145. Microbiology. 4 Units.
The biology of microorganisms is studied with emphasis on viruses, bacteria and fungi including techniques of cultivation and identification. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061; CHEM 025, 027.
BIOL 147. Medical Microbiology. 4 Units.
Medical microbiology covers a survey of microorangisms implicated in human disease; emphasis on characteristics and properties of microorganisms, chiefly bacteria and fungi which are responsible for pathogenesis. Laboratory includes methods of isolation, characterization, and identification of bacteria and fungi responsible for human disease. Prerequisites: BIOL 145 and CHEM 121 with a C- or higher or permission of instructor.
BIOL 151. Parasitology. 4 Units.
Principles of parasitism as well as biology of animal parasites with special emphasis on the protozoa, platyhelminths, nematodes, acanthocephala and arthropods are studied. Techniques of recovery of parasites from various vertebrate hosts are introduced including staining, mounting and identification. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101.
BIOL 153. Cell Biology. 4 Units.
Cell Biology studies cell structure and function with emphasis on the dynamic nature of the cellular environment and the methodologies of cell biology. The experimental basis of our present understanding of the cell is also stressed. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101, CHEM 025, 027. Organic chemistry is recommended.
BIOL 155. Biological Electron Microscopy. 4 Units.
The process and techniques involved in examining biological specimens with the transmission electron microscope will be covered in detail. When competence in specimen processing is achieved, each student performs an original experiment as a term project. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061; CHEM 025, 027. BIOL 101 is recommended.
BIOL 157. Topics in Biomedical Research. 4 Units.
Basic research in the areas of cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and physiology are examined in their applications to current problems in medicine. Topics covered include genetic engineering, gene therapy, transplants and cloning. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101; CHEM 121.
BIOL 158. Computerized Data Acquisition. 4 Units.
This lecture and laboratory course introduces students to experimental design and protocol. Students are trained in the programming and use of the computer data acquisition program LabVIEW, then apply the program to an intensive, team-based research project studying amphibian reproductive behavior. The class ends with a symposium-style presentation of each team's experiments and results. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061.
BIOL 159. Molecular Biological Techniques. 4 Units.
This advanced laboratory course in the methods of molecular biology, has an emphasis on modern techniques and their application in the laboratory. Topics covered include gene cloning, protein expression systems, nucleic acid isolation and purification, and basic methods of bioinformatics. Prerequisites: BIOL 101; CHEM 121 with a C- or higher.
BIOL 162. Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 5 Units.
The evolution of vertebrate organ systems as revealed by comparative morphology are emphasized. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061. Recommended: BIOL 101.
BIOL 165. Embryology and Development. 4 Units.
This laboratory course focuses on the events that occur as a single-celled embryo develops into an adult organism. Developmental processes are studied at the descriptive and mechanistic levels, leading to an understanding of how and why complex structures are produced. Major emphases is placed on animal embryology (both vertebrate and invertebrate) leading to the production to tissues, organs and organ systems. Later developmental processes also are studied, as well as sex determination. Additional topics include cancer and evolution as seen in the context of development. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101.
BIOL 169. Elements of Biochemistry. 4 Units.
The field of biochemistry is the focus in this non-lab course that is designed as a preparation for students who will attend a Pharmacy or Dental School. Topics include nucleic acid and protein structure and synthesis, intermediary metabolism, enzyme action, and synthesis and degradation of important biological molecules. The relationship of biochemistry, nutrition, and human disease is discussed. This course does not count for the Biochemistry major. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101; CHEM 123 With a C- or higher.
BIOL 171. Methods in Field Biology. 4 Units.
A course focused on methods of biological investigation with emphasis on modern field sampling techniques and instrumentation. Students are trained in experimental design and quantitative data analysis used to address a range of biological questions. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061 with a "D" or better.
BIOL 175. Ecology. 4 Units.
The structure and dynamics of populations, biotic communities and ecosystems, is emphasized with particular focus upon relationships of organisms to their environments. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061.
BIOL 176. Ecology and Conservation Biology. 4 Units.
The principles of ecology are introduced with attention to consider threats and disruptions to ecological systems from the level of local populations through ecosystems, landscapes, and global processes. Ecological principles are used to help understand these systems, to make predictions for the future or for other systems, and to evaluate possible solutions. The class considers the importance of economic and demographic forces in causing conservation problems and in shaping conservation strategies, and students practice planning conservation areas. Prerequisite: BIOL 051.
BIOL 179. Evolution. 4 Units.
Lectures and readings on the mechanisms of evolutionary change in organisms are the focus. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061; BIOL 101 recommended.
BIOL 182. Medical Endocrinology. 4 Units.
This lecture and laboratory course presents the fundamentals and current topics in human endocrinology. The subject is examined from a medical and clinical perspective, including "virtual" patients. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101; CHEM 025 and CHEM 027; BIOL 071 and BIOL 081 recommended.
BIOL 185. Comparative Animal Behavior. 4 Units.
The ecology and evolution of animal behavior are discussed. Laboratory involves a quantitative study of animal behavior at Micke Grove Zoo. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061. Junior standing in Biological Sciences or Psychology.
BIOL 186. Hormones and Behavior. 4 Units.
This lecture/discussion course focuses on the bidirectional interactions between an animal's behaviors and its endocrine system. Topics include: overview of the vertebrate endocrine system, courtship and sex behaviors, parenting behavior, pheromonal communication, aggression and other social behaviors, learning and memory, hunger, stress, and biological rhythms. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101.
BIOL 191. Independent Study. 2-4 Units.
BIOL 197. Undergraduate Research. 1-4 Unit.
BIOL 222. Immunology. 4 Units.
Students study immunoglobin structure, function, and expression in animals. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of humoral immune response, cell-mediated immunity, complement system, autoimmune diseases, tolerance induction, transplantations, cancer immunity, vaccines, and cytokine actions are also emphasized. Graduate standing.
BIOL 224. Cancer Biology and DNA Repair. 4 Units.
The course examines the morphological and molecular events that accompany the change of a normal cell into a cancerous cell. Emphasis is on the cell and molecular biology of genes that play a role in this process. The lab uses molecular techniques to analyze genes involved in carcinogenesis and DNA repair. Graduate standing.
BIOL 234. Comparative Physiology. 4 Units.
This course offers a detailed review of organ function in diverse groups of organisms. Emphasis is on physiological adaptation to the environment. Graduate standing.
BIOL 244. Developmental Biology. 4 Units.
Students examine the genetic control of development and the physiological mechanisms involved in fertilization and differentiation. Graduate standing.
BIOL 247. Medical Microbiology. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 147 with three additional hours per week of seminar and/or special project. Graduate standing.
BIOL 251. Parasitology. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 151. Principles of parasitism, biology of animal parasites with special emphasis on the protozoa, nematodes, helminths, acanthocephala, and arthropods are covered with three additional hours per week of seminar and/or special project. Graduate standing.
BIOL 253. Cell Biology. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 153. Students take an in-depth look at the structure and function of a cell with an emphasis on the methodologies of Cell Biology. Research-based current understanding of the topics is stressed and a special project is required. Graduate standing.
BIOL 255. Biological Electron Microscopy. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 155. The processes and techniques involved in examining biological specimens with the transmission electron microscope are covered in detail. When competence in specimen processing is achieved, each student performs an original experiment as a term project. Graduate standing.
BIOL 279. Evolution. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 179 and a special project is required. Graduate standing.
BIOL 291. Independent Study. 2 OR 4 Units.
BIOL 295. Graduate Seminar. 4 Units.
BIOL 297. Graduate Research. 1-6 Unit.
BIOL 299. Thesis. 2 OR 4 Units.
Knowledge
Demonstrate knowledge of research methods and skill to design and implement research studies in the biological sciences.
Communication
Demonstrate written, oral and interpersonal communication skills as needed for advanced study, teaching and research.
Teamwork
Develop collaboration, leadership, and intercultural skills as needed to participate in research studies, work productively with colleagues, and/or teach.
Breadth
Demonstrate broad knowledge of the biological sciences and deep knowledge of one or more areas of concentration, including molecular and cellular biology, physiology, microbiology, ecology, paleontology, and plant and animal systematics.
Ethics
Develop ethical reasoning as needed to design and carry out research and function successfully within the broad field of the biological sciences.
Professionalism
Demonstrate oral and written communication skills necessary for entry into the profession or further study.
Biological Sciences Faculty
Gregg D. Jongeward, Senior Associate Dean and Associate Professor, 1996, BS, University of Minnesota, 1986; PhD, California Institute of Technology, 1993., gjongeward@pacific.edu
Craig A. Vierra, Professor and Chair, 1995, BS, University of California, Davis, 1990; PhD, University of California, Riverside, 1994., cvierra@pacific.edu
Joan Lin Cereghino, Professor and Assistant Chair, 2000, AB, Princeton University, 1987; PhD, University of California, San Diego, 1992., jlincere@pacific.edu
Maria G. Pallavicini, Provost and Professor of Biology with tenure, 2010
Mark Brunell, Associate Professor, 2002, BA, California State University, 1988; MA, California State University, Fullerton 1991; PhD, University of California, Riverside, 1996., mbrunell@pacific.edu
Geoffrey Lin Cereghino, Professor, 2000, BS, University of California, Davis, 1989; PhD, University of California, San Diego, 1995., glincere@pacific.edu
Marcos Gridi-Papp, Assistant Professor, 2009, BS, State University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 1994; MS, State University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 1997; PhD, University of Texas, Austin, 2003., mgridipapp@pacific.edu
Ryan Hill, Assistant Professor, 2011, BS, University of Oregon, 1997; MA, University of Texas at Austin, 2003; PhD, University of California, Berkeley, 2008., rhill@pacific.edu
Kirkwood Land, Associate Professor, 2004, BS, University of California, Davis, 1992; MA, University of California, Riverside, 1995; PhD, University of California, Los Angeles, 2001., kland@pacific.edu
Stacey Luthy, Assistant Professor, 2007, BS, Louisiana State University, 1997; PhD, The University of Miami, 2004., sluthy@pacific.edu
W. Desmond Maxwell, Associate Professor, 1999, BS, The Queen’s University of Belfast, Ireland, 1986; PhD, 1991., dmaxwell@pacific.edu
Dale McNeal, Professor Emeritus, 1969, BA, Colorado College, 1962; MS, SUNY College of Forestry, 1965; PhD, Washington State University, 1968., dmcneal@pacific.edu
Ajna Rivera, Assistant Professor, 2010, BS, Stanford University, 1999; PhD, University of California, Berkeley, 2006., arivera@pacific.edu
Richard R. Tenaza, Professor, 1975, BA, San Francisco State College, 1964; PhD, University of California, Davis, 1974., rtenaza@pacific.edu
Eric O. Thomas, Associate Professor, 1993, BS, University of California, Riverside, 1984; MA, 1987; PhD, University of California, Berkeley, 1991., ethomas@pacific.edu
Douglas Weiser, Assistant Professor, 2009, BA, College of Wooster, 1999; PhD, Duke University, 2004., dweiser@pacific.edu
Lisa Wrischnik, Associate Professor, 1998, BS, University of California, Berkeley, 1986; PhD, University of California, San Francisco, 1996., lwrischnik@pacific.edu
http://www.pacific.edu/college/biology
Phone: (209) 946-2181
Location: Biology Building, South Campus
Craig Vierra, Department Director of Graduate Program and Chair
Joan Lin-Cereghino, Department Director of Graduate Program and Assistant Chair
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Biological Sciences
For a graduate degree in the Department of Biological Sciences, the candidate may take a broadly based program in biology or may specialize in areas such as molecular and cellular biology, physiology or ecology.
Candidates for the master of science degree in biological sciences must hold a bachelor’s degree that includes the equivalent of the baccalaureate program in biology at University of the Pacific. Candidates holding the bachelor’s degree with a major in fields other than biology may be accepted provided deficiencies in biology are made up.
Master of Science in Biological Sciences
Students must complete a minimum of 32 units with a Pacific cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in order to earn the master of science degree in biological sciences.
I. Required Graduate Courses
| BIOL Electives (Four courses at the 200 level, one course may come from the 100 level if cross listed with a 200 level graduate course excluding Research and Independent Study) | 16 | |
II. Thesis/Research
| BIOL 297 | Graduate Research | 4-6 |
| BIOL 299 | Thesis | 2 OR 4 |
III. Electives
| BIOL Electives (2 courses at the 100 or 200 level or from CHEM 141) | 8 | |
Note: 1) Students may count a maximum of six (6) units of Research and/or Independent Study toward their degree. 2) Students are encouraged, where appropriate, to select courses offered by other departments or units of the University, such as Chemistry or the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
BIOL 101. Genetics. 4 Units.
Emphasis of study is heritable variations and their relation to structure, behavior and function of genetic material. This basic course is for students concentrating on biological sciences, medical sciences and liberal arts. Recommended: Sophomore standing. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061.
BIOL 111. Anatomy and Physiology. 4 Units.
This lecture and laboratory course covers the structure and function of the major physiological systems of the human body, and it is intended primarily for students in the Dental Hygiene program. Students taking BIOL 111 do not receive credit for either BIOL 071 or BIOL 081. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061.
BIOL 122. Principles of Immunology. 4 Units.
The fundamental properties of antigens and antibodies are covered with an emphasis on the theories of antibody production, tolerance, transplantation immunity, autoimunity and tumor immunology. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and CHEM 121.
BIOL 128. Histology. 4 Units.
A study of the tissues which comprise the organs of the body is the focus. This course is limited to human tissues. Thin sections of organs will be studied and their structure related to function. Credit only given once for BIOL 128 or BIOL 129. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061.
BIOL 129. Histology Online. 3 Units.
This is a non-lab, online version of BIOL 128. Credit is only given once for BIOL 128 or BIOL 129. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061; BIOL 101 recommended.
BIOL 130. Plant Kingdom. 4 Units.
Through lectures, laboratories and field trips, students are introduced to the morphology, reproduction biology and environmental requirements of all major groups of plants. Included are material bearing on the evolutionary relationships within and between each major group. Individual projects are required. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061.
BIOL 145. Microbiology. 4 Units.
The biology of microorganisms is studied with emphasis on viruses, bacteria and fungi including techniques of cultivation and identification. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061; CHEM 025, 027.
BIOL 147. Medical Microbiology. 4 Units.
Medical microbiology covers a survey of microorangisms implicated in human disease; emphasis on characteristics and properties of microorganisms, chiefly bacteria and fungi which are responsible for pathogenesis. Laboratory includes methods of isolation, characterization, and identification of bacteria and fungi responsible for human disease. Prerequisites: BIOL 145 and CHEM 121 with a C- or higher or permission of instructor.
BIOL 151. Parasitology. 4 Units.
Principles of parasitism as well as biology of animal parasites with special emphasis on the protozoa, platyhelminths, nematodes, acanthocephala and arthropods are studied. Techniques of recovery of parasites from various vertebrate hosts are introduced including staining, mounting and identification. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101.
BIOL 153. Cell Biology. 4 Units.
Cell Biology studies cell structure and function with emphasis on the dynamic nature of the cellular environment and the methodologies of cell biology. The experimental basis of our present understanding of the cell is also stressed. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101, CHEM 025, 027. Organic chemistry is recommended.
BIOL 155. Biological Electron Microscopy. 4 Units.
The process and techniques involved in examining biological specimens with the transmission electron microscope will be covered in detail. When competence in specimen processing is achieved, each student performs an original experiment as a term project. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061; CHEM 025, 027. BIOL 101 is recommended.
BIOL 157. Topics in Biomedical Research. 4 Units.
Basic research in the areas of cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and physiology are examined in their applications to current problems in medicine. Topics covered include genetic engineering, gene therapy, transplants and cloning. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101; CHEM 121.
BIOL 158. Computerized Data Acquisition. 4 Units.
This lecture and laboratory course introduces students to experimental design and protocol. Students are trained in the programming and use of the computer data acquisition program LabVIEW, then apply the program to an intensive, team-based research project studying amphibian reproductive behavior. The class ends with a symposium-style presentation of each team's experiments and results. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061.
BIOL 159. Molecular Biological Techniques. 4 Units.
This advanced laboratory course in the methods of molecular biology, has an emphasis on modern techniques and their application in the laboratory. Topics covered include gene cloning, protein expression systems, nucleic acid isolation and purification, and basic methods of bioinformatics. Prerequisites: BIOL 101; CHEM 121 with a C- or higher.
BIOL 162. Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. 5 Units.
The evolution of vertebrate organ systems as revealed by comparative morphology are emphasized. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061. Recommended: BIOL 101.
BIOL 165. Embryology and Development. 4 Units.
This laboratory course focuses on the events that occur as a single-celled embryo develops into an adult organism. Developmental processes are studied at the descriptive and mechanistic levels, leading to an understanding of how and why complex structures are produced. Major emphases is placed on animal embryology (both vertebrate and invertebrate) leading to the production to tissues, organs and organ systems. Later developmental processes also are studied, as well as sex determination. Additional topics include cancer and evolution as seen in the context of development. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101.
BIOL 169. Elements of Biochemistry. 4 Units.
The field of biochemistry is the focus in this non-lab course that is designed as a preparation for students who will attend a Pharmacy or Dental School. Topics include nucleic acid and protein structure and synthesis, intermediary metabolism, enzyme action, and synthesis and degradation of important biological molecules. The relationship of biochemistry, nutrition, and human disease is discussed. This course does not count for the Biochemistry major. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101; CHEM 123 With a C- or higher.
BIOL 171. Methods in Field Biology. 4 Units.
A course focused on methods of biological investigation with emphasis on modern field sampling techniques and instrumentation. Students are trained in experimental design and quantitative data analysis used to address a range of biological questions. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061 with a "D" or better.
BIOL 175. Ecology. 4 Units.
The structure and dynamics of populations, biotic communities and ecosystems, is emphasized with particular focus upon relationships of organisms to their environments. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061.
BIOL 176. Ecology and Conservation Biology. 4 Units.
The principles of ecology are introduced with attention to consider threats and disruptions to ecological systems from the level of local populations through ecosystems, landscapes, and global processes. Ecological principles are used to help understand these systems, to make predictions for the future or for other systems, and to evaluate possible solutions. The class considers the importance of economic and demographic forces in causing conservation problems and in shaping conservation strategies, and students practice planning conservation areas. Prerequisite: BIOL 051.
BIOL 179. Evolution. 4 Units.
Lectures and readings on the mechanisms of evolutionary change in organisms are the focus. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and BIOL 061; BIOL 101 recommended.
BIOL 182. Medical Endocrinology. 4 Units.
This lecture and laboratory course presents the fundamentals and current topics in human endocrinology. The subject is examined from a medical and clinical perspective, including "virtual" patients. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101; CHEM 025 and CHEM 027; BIOL 071 and BIOL 081 recommended.
BIOL 185. Comparative Animal Behavior. 4 Units.
The ecology and evolution of animal behavior are discussed. Laboratory involves a quantitative study of animal behavior at Micke Grove Zoo. Prerequisites: BIOL 051 and 061. Junior standing in Biological Sciences or Psychology.
BIOL 186. Hormones and Behavior. 4 Units.
This lecture/discussion course focuses on the bidirectional interactions between an animal's behaviors and its endocrine system. Topics include: overview of the vertebrate endocrine system, courtship and sex behaviors, parenting behavior, pheromonal communication, aggression and other social behaviors, learning and memory, hunger, stress, and biological rhythms. Prerequisites: BIOL 051, 061, 101.
BIOL 191. Independent Study. 2-4 Units.
BIOL 197. Undergraduate Research. 1-4 Unit.
BIOL 222. Immunology. 4 Units.
Students study immunoglobin structure, function, and expression in animals. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of humoral immune response, cell-mediated immunity, complement system, autoimmune diseases, tolerance induction, transplantations, cancer immunity, vaccines, and cytokine actions are also emphasized. Graduate standing.
BIOL 224. Cancer Biology and DNA Repair. 4 Units.
The course examines the morphological and molecular events that accompany the change of a normal cell into a cancerous cell. Emphasis is on the cell and molecular biology of genes that play a role in this process. The lab uses molecular techniques to analyze genes involved in carcinogenesis and DNA repair. Graduate standing.
BIOL 234. Comparative Physiology. 4 Units.
This course offers a detailed review of organ function in diverse groups of organisms. Emphasis is on physiological adaptation to the environment. Graduate standing.
BIOL 244. Developmental Biology. 4 Units.
Students examine the genetic control of development and the physiological mechanisms involved in fertilization and differentiation. Graduate standing.
BIOL 247. Medical Microbiology. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 147 with three additional hours per week of seminar and/or special project. Graduate standing.
BIOL 251. Parasitology. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 151. Principles of parasitism, biology of animal parasites with special emphasis on the protozoa, nematodes, helminths, acanthocephala, and arthropods are covered with three additional hours per week of seminar and/or special project. Graduate standing.
BIOL 253. Cell Biology. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 153. Students take an in-depth look at the structure and function of a cell with an emphasis on the methodologies of Cell Biology. Research-based current understanding of the topics is stressed and a special project is required. Graduate standing.
BIOL 255. Biological Electron Microscopy. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 155. The processes and techniques involved in examining biological specimens with the transmission electron microscope are covered in detail. When competence in specimen processing is achieved, each student performs an original experiment as a term project. Graduate standing.
BIOL 279. Evolution. 4 Units.
This course content is the same as BIOL 179 and a special project is required. Graduate standing.
BIOL 291. Independent Study. 2 OR 4 Units.
BIOL 295. Graduate Seminar. 4 Units.
BIOL 297. Graduate Research. 1-6 Unit.
BIOL 299. Thesis. 2 OR 4 Units.
Knowledge
Demonstrate knowledge of research methods and skill to design and implement research studies in the biological sciences.
Communication
Demonstrate written, oral and interpersonal communication skills as needed for advanced study, teaching and research.
Teamwork
Develop collaboration, leadership, and intercultural skills as needed to participate in research studies, work productively with colleagues, and/or teach.
Breadth
Demonstrate broad knowledge of the biological sciences and deep knowledge of one or more areas of concentration, including molecular and cellular biology, physiology, microbiology, ecology, paleontology, and plant and animal systematics.
Ethics
Develop ethical reasoning as needed to design and carry out research and function successfully within the broad field of the biological sciences.
Professionalism
Demonstrate oral and written communication skills necessary for entry into the profession or further study.
Biological Sciences Faculty
Gregg D. Jongeward, Senior Associate Dean and Associate Professor, 1996, BS, University of Minnesota, 1986; PhD, California Institute of Technology, 1993., gjongeward@pacific.edu
Craig A. Vierra, Professor and Chair, 1995, BS, University of California, Davis, 1990; PhD, University of California, Riverside, 1994., cvierra@pacific.edu
Joan Lin Cereghino, Professor and Assistant Chair, 2000, AB, Princeton University, 1987; PhD, University of California, San Diego, 1992., jlincere@pacific.edu
Maria G. Pallavicini, Provost and Professor of Biology with tenure, 2010
Mark Brunell, Associate Professor, 2002, BA, California State University, 1988; MA, California State University, Fullerton 1991; PhD, University of California, Riverside, 1996., mbrunell@pacific.edu
Geoffrey Lin Cereghino, Professor, 2000, BS, University of California, Davis, 1989; PhD, University of California, San Diego, 1995., glincere@pacific.edu
Marcos Gridi-Papp, Assistant Professor, 2009, BS, State University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 1994; MS, State University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 1997; PhD, University of Texas, Austin, 2003., mgridipapp@pacific.edu
Ryan Hill, Assistant Professor, 2011, BS, University of Oregon, 1997; MA, University of Texas at Austin, 2003; PhD, University of California, Berkeley, 2008., rhill@pacific.edu
Kirkwood Land, Associate Professor, 2004, BS, University of California, Davis, 1992; MA, University of California, Riverside, 1995; PhD, University of California, Los Angeles, 2001., kland@pacific.edu
Stacey Luthy, Assistant Professor, 2007, BS, Louisiana State University, 1997; PhD, The University of Miami, 2004., sluthy@pacific.edu
W. Desmond Maxwell, Associate Professor, 1999, BS, The Queen’s University of Belfast, Ireland, 1986; PhD, 1991., dmaxwell@pacific.edu
Dale McNeal, Professor Emeritus, 1969, BA, Colorado College, 1962; MS, SUNY College of Forestry, 1965; PhD, Washington State University, 1968., dmcneal@pacific.edu
Ajna Rivera, Assistant Professor, 2010, BS, Stanford University, 1999; PhD, University of California, Berkeley, 2006., arivera@pacific.edu
Richard R. Tenaza, Professor, 1975, BA, San Francisco State College, 1964; PhD, University of California, Davis, 1974., rtenaza@pacific.edu
Eric O. Thomas, Associate Professor, 1993, BS, University of California, Riverside, 1984; MA, 1987; PhD, University of California, Berkeley, 1991., ethomas@pacific.edu
Douglas Weiser, Assistant Professor, 2009, BA, College of Wooster, 1999; PhD, Duke University, 2004., dweiser@pacific.edu
Lisa Wrischnik, Associate Professor, 1998, BS, University of California, Berkeley, 1986; PhD, University of California, San Francisco, 1996., lwrischnik@pacific.edu