Plant and Microbial Biology

An integrated and multidisciplinary approach to the study of interactions between plants and the environment. Introduces physical parameters in the global and micro-environment that affect plant function; and molecular, cellular, and developmental aspects of plant response to suboptimal/adverse conditions. Underlying biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology of plant adaptation and acclimation mechanisms. Examines consequences of industrial activity on plant growth and productivity.

An analysis of the structural diversity of multicellular plants, especially the higher forms, with emphasis on the developmental mechanisms responsible for this variation in form and the significance of this diversity in relation to the environments in which plants grow.

Basic genetic principles and mechanisms, evolution, philosophical implications and relation of genetics to global problems of human and environmental health

Covers contemporary topics in plant biology. Examines how plants grow, reproduce, and respond to the environment (e.g., to light) in ways distinct from animals. Presents basic principles of genetics, cell, and molecular biology. Basics of genetic engineering and biotechnology reveal how they are used to modify plants, and these socially relevant issues are assessed. Includes visit to modern plant biology research laboratory, and aspects of plant disease and diversity.

Topics vary from semester to semester

Reading and discussion with Plant and Microbial Biology faculty on current research and topics in plant and microbial biology. Topics which may be discussed include Microbial biology, plant genetics, plant development, plant pathology, agricultural biotechnology, and genetic engineering.

Changing patterns of agriculture in relation to population growth, the biology and social impact of plant disease, genetic engineering of plants: a thousand years of crop improvement and modern biotechnology, interactions between plants and the environment, and effects of human industrial and agricultural activity on plant ecosystems. Knowledge of the physical sciences is neither required nor assumed