Researchers increasingly attempt to harness biochemical approaches as a way to address pressing societal problems. For example, recent work has focused on topics including the effective production of biofuels, remediation of environmental pollutants and developing new treatments for antibiotic resistant pathogens. In this course, juniors and seniors will explore contemporary research aimed at solving these problems through readings in the primary literature, invited lectures, interviewing researchers and developing independent research proposals. Students will analyze and interpret research findings through weekly writing assignments targeted towards broad audiences, such as research summaries for the scientific press, textbook sections, executive summaries and proposals accessible to non-specialists. Class sessions will be structured as workshops to analyze core chemical and biological concepts and provide structured critiques of writing assignments.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 12

Crosslisted Courses:

Prerequisites: BIOC/CHEM 223 or BIOC/CHEM 227 or BIOC/BISC 220 or (CHEM 205 and CHEM 211 and (BISC 110 or BISC 112 or BISC 116)), or permission of the instructor.

Instructor: Elmore

Distribution Requirements: NPS - Natural and Physical Sciences

Other Categories: CSPW - Calderwood Seminar in Public Writing

Typical Periods Offered: Every three years

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall

Notes: