WELCOME TO MCB422: Problem Solving with Genetic Tools |
This course is likely different from any other you
have taken.
In contrast to the traditional format of biology lab courses, MCB422 relies entirely on computer simulations of classical genetic experiments. MCB422 features three major topics (modules): a) Cricket (phage genetics) features classical experiments deducing the nature of genes and the genetic code as originally performed by Seymour Benzer, Sir Francis Crick, and many others; b) MendelStar ( Mendelian genetics) features the few basic rules of classical genetics first described by Gregor Mendel and some of the more interesting exceptions; c) PathFinder (yeast genetics) features modern experiments designed to genetically dissect molecular signaling pathways of the cell cycle. The goals of the course are: THIS IS NOT A COURSE TO LEARN GENETICS! It will be your task to solve 18 genetic problems (6 per topic) by developing an experimental strategy and succesfully executing it. You will be assessed not only on successful completion of the task at hand but also on how you documented your experimental findings in your notebook report. The course was developed entirely by Dr. Bruce Patterson who has created computer simulations of genetic experiments that enable you to learn the principles of genetics by applying them yourself. Since Bruce is now responsible for the 181/182 laboratories, the course will be guided this semester by Dr. Konrad Zinsmaier, but the teaching and learning will come from your own experimental efforts working with the ingenious simulations Bruce has developed. Syllabus: Philosophy, grading, requirements, rules and contact information (essential to read). Calendar: Description of schedule including readings, deadlines, topic introduction dates and quizzes. Notebook Reports: This link explains the required format of the notebook report, and provides you with a good (that may prove useful in doing problem #2!) and a bad example of a report. The link also explains how to submit your notebook report as electronic entry through the D2L web-site of the course. Grades and Notebook submission: This link takes you to the D2L website of the course. Log in using your UA-net-ID and open link to MCB422 Fall 2007 in "academic courses" window. Submit notebook reports in the "dropbox" and monitor your progress in the "grades" section of the site. Instructors: Technical support for software: OTHER RESOURCES |