This course is based on the Stan-X experimental biology course developed by Professor Seung Kim of Stanford University. Students will be introduced to fundamental concepts in molecular and cellular biology and genetics, in addition to laboratory and husbandry techniques specific to the fruit fly. The course is focused on laboratory research where students will use transposon biology to create transgenic fruit flies. Favorable strains of flies made and characterized by students will be used by researchers in Dr. Kim’s lab and made available to all scientists working on fruit flies. Engagement with primary research literature, bioinformatics databases and independent laboratory work is expected. To allow for the completion of college-level laboratory experiments, the course meets for an additional 70-minute block each week. Additional laboratory work outside of class time will also be expected.

Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Honors Biology and departmental approval