Experimental research on fundamental biological problems is conducted in model organisms. Therefore, it is important to learn about current approaches that take advantage of different models.

 

This course covers advanced topics on cell and molecular biology, such as epigenetics, embryogenesis, and differentiation, with an emphasis in different model organisms, including the widely-used mouse, frog, zebrafish, fly, worm, and yeasts, as well as less-common models such as jawless fish, cartilaginous fish, Dictyostelium and Archaea, which are preferred to study specific processes.

Class structure: During the first hour of each class, the instructor will give a lecture on the listed topic.  During the second hour, a student will present a recent paper recommended by the instructor. Two of the lectures will be presented by selected students.