How do they do it? Method and Logic in Biomedical Science

Course No: BIOL 4660, three credits

Spring 2016

The University of Virginia

Course Description:

How has a bioluminescent jellyfish saved lives? What does a Himalayan pond fish have to do with research into the origins of psychiatric disorders? Innovative methods in biomedical research have played a significant part in the development of revolutionary disease cures, treatments and diagnostics. This course will examine many of these technical approaches and how they have led to such significant discoveries in basic biomedical research. The first 2/3 of the semester will be lecture based, while the final 1/3 will be focused on a combination of discussion, group writing assignments, and presentations. Participation is a large part of the final grade so students are expected to come to class prepared to actively participate.