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DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY


The Department of Biology (https://biology.mit.edu) oersundergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral training in basicbiology, and in a variety of biological elds of specialization.The quantitative aspects of biology, including molecular biology,biochemistry, genetics, and cell biology, represent the core of theprogram. Students in the department are encouraged to acquire asolid background in the physical sciences not only to master theapplications of mathematics, physics, and chemistry to biology,but also to develop an integrated scientic perspective. The variousprograms, which emphasize practical experimentation, combine aminimum of formal laboratory exercises with ample opportunitiesfor research work both in project-oriented laboratory subjects andin the department's research laboratories. Students at all levels areencouraged to acquire familiarity with advanced research techniquesand to participate in seminar activities.

Undergraduate Study

Bachelor of Science in Biology (Course 7)The curriculum leading to the Bachelor of Science in Biology (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/biology-course-7) is designedto prepare students for a professional career in the area of thebiological sciences. Graduates of this program are well prepared forpositions in industrial or research institutes. However, experiencehas shown that many graduates choose to continue their educationat a graduate school in order to obtain a PhD in an area such asbiochemistry, microbiology, genetics, biophysics, cell biology,or physiology, followed by research or teaching in one of thoseareas. The undergraduate curriculum is also excellent preparationfor students who wish to continue their education toward an MD,particularly if their career plans include laboratory investigationsbearing on human disease. Students are encouraged to use theirelective subjects for more advanced subjects in their eld and foradditional study in basic and advanced subjects oered in variousdepartments.

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biology (Course 5-7)The Departments of Biology and Chemistry jointly oer a Bachelorof Science in Chemistry and Biology (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/chemistry-biology-course-5-7). A detailed description ofthe requirements for this degree program can be found in thesection on Interdisciplinary Programs (http://catalog.mit.edu/interdisciplinary/undergraduate-programs/degrees/chemistry-biology).

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Molecular Biology(Course 6-7)The Department of Biology jointly oers a Bachelor of Science inComputer Science and Molecular Biology (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/computer-science-molecular-biology-course-6-7) with

the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Adetailed description of the requirements for this degree programcan be found in the section on Interdisciplinary Programs (http://catalog.mit.edu/interdisciplinary/undergraduate-programs/degrees/computer-science-molecular-biology).

Minor in BiologyThe department oers a Minor in Biology; the requirements are asfollows:

5.12 Organic Chemistry I 127.03 Genetics 127.05 General Biochemistry 12

or 5.07[J] Introduction to Biological ChemistrySelect two of the following: 24-30

7.002& 7.003[J]

Fundamentals of ExperimentalMolecular Biologyand Applied Molecular BiologyLaboratory

7.06 Cell Biology7.08[J] Fundamentals of Chemical Biology7.09 Quantitative and Computational

Biology7.20[J] Human Physiology7.21 Microbial Physiology7.23[J] Immunology7.26 Molecular Basis of Infectious Disease7.27 Principles of Human Disease and

Aging7.28 Molecular Biology7.29[J] Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology7.30[J] Fundamentals of Ecology7.31 Current Topics in Mammalian

Biology: Medical Implications7.32 Systems Biology7.33[J] Evolutionary Biology: Concepts,

Models and Computation7.37[J] Molecular and Engineering Aspects

of Biotechnologyor 7.371 Biological and Engineering Principles Underlying

Novel Biotherapeutics7.45 The Hallmarks of Cancer7.46 Building with Cells7.49[J] Developmental Neurobiology

Total Units 60-66

For a general description of the minor program, see UndergraduateEducation (http://catalog.mit.edu/mit/undergraduate-education/academic-programs/minors).

Department of Biology | 3


InquiriesAdditional information regarding undergraduate academicprograms and research opportunities may be obtained from theBiology Education Oce ([email protected]), Room 68-120,617-253-4718.

Graduate Study

The Department of Biology oers graduate work leading to theDoctor of Philosophy. Students may choose from among thefollowing elds of specialization.

Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology focus on improvingour understanding of molecular processes central to life. Usingin vitro approaches, biochemists and biophysicists analyze themechanisms of biological information transfer, from maintenanceand replication of the genome to protein synthesis, sorting, andprocessing. Structural biologists elucidate the molecular shapesof biological macromolecules and complexes and determine howstructure enables function. Applying principles and tools fromchemistry and physics, biochemists and biophysicists elaboratethe details of protein and nucleic acid folding and interactions,biomolecular dynamics, catalysis, and macromolecular assembly.

Cancer Biology involves the discovery of genes implicated in cancer,the identication of cell biological processes aected duringtumorigenesis, and the development of potential new therapeutictargets. Cancer biologists employ genetic approaches, includingclassical genetics, to determine the components of growth controlpathways in model organisms, cloning of human oncogenes andtumor suppressor genes, and generating mutant mouse strains tostudy these and other cancer-associated genes. They also performbiochemical and cell biological studies to elucidate the function ofcancer genes, the details of proliferation, cell cycle and cell deathpathways, the nature of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, and themechanisms of chromosome stability and of DNA repair, replication,and transcription.

Cell Biology is the study of processes carried out by individualcells, such as cell division, organelle inheritance and biogenesis,signal transduction, and motility. These processes are oenaected by components in the environment, including nutrients,growth signals, and cell-cell contact. Cell biologists study theseprocesses using single-celled organisms, such as bacteria and yeast;multicellular organisms, such as zebrash and mice; establishedmammalian tissue culture lines; and primary cell cultures derivedfrom recombinant animals.

Computational Biology applies quantitative methods to the studyof molecular, cellular, and organismal biology. Computationalbiologists develop and apply models, analyze data, and runsimulations to study nucleic acid and protein sequences,

biomolecular structures and functions, cellular informationprocessing, tissue morphogenesis, and emergent behaviors.

Genetics is the study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity inliving organisms that range in complexity from viruses to single-celled organisms to multicellular organisms, including humans.Geneticists seek to understand the transmission of genes byanalyzing DNA replication, DNA repair, chromosome segregation,and cell division. They also use genetic and genomic tools to identifyand analyze the genes and gene regulators required for normalbiological processes, including development, sex determination, andaging, as well as for the etiology of disease.

Human Disease applies molecular genetics to the problems of humandisease. The range of disease areas includes developmental defects,cancer, atherosclerosis and heart disease, neuromuscular diseases,and diseases of other organ systems. Researchers use geneticand genomic strategies to identify, isolate, and characterize genesthat cause and contribute to the etiology of human diseases. Theyexplore the mechanisms underlying developmental defects anddiseases through the comparison of the genetic pathways in humansand model organisms. They also isolate cells from aected patientsto generate novel assay systems to examine gene-function-pathologyrelationships.

Immunology focuses on the genetic, cellular, and molecularmechanisms by which organisms respond to and eliminate infectionsby a large number of pathogens. The immune response requiresan elaborate collaboration of dierent cells of the immune system,including macrophages, B lymphocytes, and T lymphocytes.Immunologists study the role of the immune system not just inresponse to infection but also in a range of human diseases,including cancer.

Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms, such asbacteria, viruses, archaea, fungi, and protozoa. Exploitingsophisticated genetic, molecular biological, and biochemicalsystems available for microorganisms, microbiologists obtain high-resolution insights into the fundamental processes necessary forlife and explore ways to manipulate microorganisms to achieveparticular desired ends. They also determine how aspects ofthe microbial life cycle and lifestyle enable their survival withinparticular biological niches and facilitate interactions with theirenvironment.

Neurobiology seeks to understand how the remarkable diversity inneuronal cell types and their connections are established and howchanges in them underlie learning and thinking. Neurobiologistsidentify and characterize the molecules involved in specifyingneuronal cell fate in vertebrates and invertebrates, and in guidingaxons to their correct targets.

Stem Cell and Developmental Biology explores how a germ linestem cell develops into a multicellular organism, which requiresthat cells divide, dierentiate, and assume their proper positionsrelative to one another as they produce organ systems and entire

4 | Department of Biology


organisms. Stem cells are unusual cells in the body that retain thecapacity to both self-renew and dierentiate. Stem cell researchersidentify the molecular mechanisms underlying stem cell renewaland dierentiation, and use stem cells for disease modeling andregenerative medicine.

Admission Requirements for Graduate StudyIn the Department of Biology, the Master of Science is not aprerequisite for a program of study leading to the doctorate.

The department modies the General Institute Requirements foradmission to graduate study as follows: 18.01 Calculus, 18.02Calculus; one year of college physics; 5.12 Organic Chemistry I;professional subjects including general biochemistry, genetics,and physical chemistry. However, students may make up somedeciencies over the course of their graduate work.

Doctor of PhilosophyThe General Degree Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophyare listed under Graduate Education (http://catalog.mit.edu/mit/graduate-education/general-degree-requirements). In thedepartmental program, each graduate student is expected to acquiresolid foundations sucient for approaching biological questionsusing the methods of biochemistry, genetics, and quantitiveanalysis. Most students take subjects in these areas during the rstyear. All students are required to take three subjects:

7.50 Method and Logic in MolecularBiology

12

7.51 Principles of Biochemical Analysis 127.52 Genetics for Graduate Students 12

7.50 is a seminar designed specically to introduce graduatestudents to in-depth discussion and analysis of topics in molecularbiology.

Students have a choice of several elective subjects, which havebeen designed for the entering graduate student. One of the electivesubjects must focus on computational and quantitative approachesto biology. Typically, students choose one of the following subjects:

7.57 Quantitative Biology for GraduateStudents

12

7.81[J] Systems Biology 12

In addition to providing a strong formal background in biology, therst-year program serves to familiarize the students with faculty andstudents in all parts of the department.

Interdisciplinary Programs

Joint Program with the Woods Hole Oceanographic InstitutionThe Joint Program with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution(WHOI) (http://mit.whoi.edu) is intended for students whose primarycareer objective is oceanography or oceanographic engineering.

Students divide their academic and research eorts between thecampuses of MIT and WHOI. Joint Program students are assignedan MIT faculty member as academic advisor; thesis research maybe supervised by MIT or WHOI faculty. While in residence at MIT,students follow a program similar to that of other students intheir home department. The program is described in more detailunder Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs (http://catalog.mit.edu/interdisciplinary/graduate-programs/joint-program-woods-hole-oceanographic-institution).

Master of Engineering in Computer Science and MolecularBiology (Course 6-7P)The Departments of Biology and Electrical Engineering and ComputerScience jointly oer a Master of Engineering in Computer Scienceand Molecular Biology (6-7P) (http://catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/master-computer-science-molecular-biology-course-6-7p). A detaileddescription of the program requirements may be found under thesection on Interdisciplinary Programs (http://catalog.mit.edu/interdisciplinary/graduate-programs/computer-science-molecular-biology).

Financial SupportStudents who are accepted into the graduate program are providedwith support from departmental training grants, departmental fundsfor teaching assistants, and research grants. In addition, somestudents bring National Science Foundation and other competitivefellowships. Through these sources, full tuition plus a stipend forliving expenses are provided.

Students are encouraged to apply for outside fellowships for whichthey are eligible, such as the NSF Fellowships. Information regardinggraduate student fellowships is available at most colleges from thecareer planning oce.

InquiriesAdditional information regarding graduate academicprograms, research activities, admissions, nancial aid, andassistantships may be obtained from the Biology Education Oce([email protected]), Room 68-120, 617-253-3717.

Faculty and Teaching Sta

Alan D. Grossman, PhDPraecis ProfessorHead, Department of Biology

Michael T. Laub, PhDProfessor of BiologyAssociate Head, Department of Biology

Jacqueline Lees, PhDVirginia and Daniel K. Ludwig Professor for Cancer ResearchProfessor of BiologyAssociate Head, Department of Biology



Peter Reddien, PhDProfessor of BiologyAssociate Head, Department of Biology

ProfessorsAngelika B. Amon, PhDKathleen and Curtis (1963) Marble Professor of Cancer ResearchProfessor of Biology(On leave, fall)

Tania Baker, PhDE.C. Whitehead ProfessorProfessor of Biology

David Bartel, PhDProfessor of Biology

Stephen P. Bell, PhDUncas (1923) and Helen Whitaker ProfessorProfessor of Biology

Christopher B. Burge, PhDProfessor of BiologyProfessor of Biological Engineering(On leave, spring)

Iain Cheeseman, PhDProfessor of Biology

Jianzhu Chen, PhDProfessor of Biology

Sallie W. Chisholm, PhDInstitute ProfessorProfessor of Civil and Environmental EngineeringProfessor of Biology

Catherine L. Drennan, PhDProfessor of BiologyProfessor of Chemistry(On leave, spring)

Gerald R. Fink, PhDProfessor of Biology

Frank Gertler, PhDProfessor of Biology(On leave)

Leonard Pershing Guarente, PhDNovartis Professor of Biology(On leave, spring)

H. Robert Horvitz, PhDDavid H. Koch ProfessorProfessor of Biology

David E. Housman, PhDVirginia and Daniel K. Ludwig Professor for Cancer ResearchProfessor of Biology

Richard O. Hynes, PhDDaniel K. Ludwig Professor for Cancer Research

Barbara Imperiali, PhDClass of 1922 ProfessorProfessor of BiologyProfessor of Chemistry

Tyler E. Jacks, PhDDavid H. Koch ProfessorProfessor of Biology

Rudolf Jaenisch, MDProfessor of Biology

Chris Kaiser, PhDAmgen ProfessorProfessor of Biology

Amy E. Keating, PhDProfessor of BiologyProfessor of Biological Engineering(On leave, fall)

Jonathan Alan King, PhDProfessor Post-Tenure of Molecular Biology

Monty Krieger, PhDWhitehead ProfessorProfessor of Biology

Eric S. Lander, PhDProfessor of Biology

Douglas A. Lauenburger, PhDFord Foundation ProfessorProfessor of Biological EngineeringProfessor of Chemical EngineeringProfessor of Biology

J. Troy Littleton, MD, PhDMenicon Professor in NeuroscienceProfessor of Biology(On leave, spring)

Harvey F. Lodish, PhDProfessor of BiologyProfessor of Biological Engineering

Elly Nedivi, PhDWilliam R. (1964) and Linda R. Young Professor of NeuroscienceProfessor of Biology



David C. Page, MDProfessor of BiologyMember, Health Sciences and Technology Faculty

Uttam L. RajBhandary, PhDLester Wolfe Professor of Molecular Biology

Aviv Regev, PhDProfessor of Biology

David M. Sabatini, MD, PhDProfessor of Biology

Robert T. Sauer, PhDSalvador E. Luria ProfessorProfessor of Biology(On leave, spring)

Thomas Schwartz, PhDBoris Magasanik Professor in Biology

Phillip A. Sharp, PhDInstitute ProfessorProfessor of BiologyAliate Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science

Anthony J. Sinskey, ScDProfessor of Biology

Hazel L. Sive, PhDProfessor of Biology

Frank Solomon, PhDProfessor of Biology

Lisa A. Steiner, MDProfessor of Immunology

Susumu Tonegawa, PhDPicower ProfessorProfessor of BiologyProfessor of Neuroscience

Graham C. Walker, PhDProfessor of Biology

Robert A. Weinberg, PhDDaniel K. Ludwig Professor for Cancer Research

Matthew A. Wilson, PhDSherman Fairchild ProfessorProfessor of NeuroscienceProfessor of Biology

Michael B. Yae, MD, PhDDavid H. Koch Professor in ScienceProfessor of BiologyProfessor of Biological Engineering

Richard A. Young, PhDProfessor of Biology

Associate ProfessorsLaurie Boyer, PhDAssociate Professor of Biological EngineeringAssociate Professor of Biology

Mary Gehring, PhDAssociate Professor of Biology

Michael Hemann, PhDAssociate Professor of Biology

Adam C. Martin, PhDAssociate Professor of Biology(On leave, fall)

Matthew G. Vander Heiden, MD, PhDAssociate Professor of Biology

Jing-Ke Weng, PhDAssociate Professor of Biology

Omer Yilmaz, PhDEisen and Chang Career Development ProfessorAssociate Professor of Biology

Assistant ProfessorsEliezer Calo, PhDIrwin W. and Helen W. Sizer Career Development ProfessorAssistant Professor of Biology

Joseph Davis, PhDWhitehead Career Development ProfessorAssistant Professor of Biology

Ankur Jain, PhDAssistant Professor of Biology

Rebecca Lamason, PhDRobert A. Swanson (1969) Career Development Professor of Life

SciencesAssistant Professor of Biology

Gene-Wei Li, PhDAssistant Professor of Biology

Pulin Li, PhDAssistant Professor of Biology

Sebastian Lourido, PhDLatham Family Career Development ProfessorAssistant Professor of Biology



Stefani Spranger, PhDHoward S. (1953) and Linda B. Stern Career Development ProfessorAssistant Professor of Biology

Seychelle Vos, PhDAssistant Professor of Biology

LecturersMandana Sassanfar, PhDLecturer in Biology

Mary Ellen Wiltrout, PhDLecturer in Biology

InstructorsStuart S. Levine, PhDInstructor of Biology

Technical InstructorsVanessa J. Cheung, PhDTechnical Instructor of Biology

Anthony Fuccione, BSTechnical Instructor of Biology

Diviya Sinha, PhDTechnical Instructor of Biology

Meredith Sweeney, PhDTechnical Instructor of Biology

Ayce Yesilaltay, PhDTechnical Instructor of Biology

Research Sta

Research ScientistsMary Elizabeth Anderson, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Markus Arnold, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Vincent Butty, MD, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Fatma Esra Demircioglu, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Huiming Ding, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Christian Glorioso, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Robert A. Grant, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Vera V. Koledova, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Janet L. Smith, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Alexei Stortchevoi, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Mohan Viswanathan, PhDResearch Scientist of Biology

Professors Emeriti

David Baltimore, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Biology

Gene M. Brown, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Biochemistry

Martha Constantine-Paton, PhDProfessor Emerita of NeuroscienceProfessor Emerita of Biology

Arnold L. Demain, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Industrial Microbiology

Maurice S. Fox, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Molecular Biology

Malcolm L. Geer, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Biochemistry

Nancy Haven Hopkins, PhDAmgen Professor EmeritaProfessor Emerita of Biology

Terry L. Orr-Weaver, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Biology

Mary-Lou Pardue, PhDBoris Magasanik Professor EmeritaProfessor Emerita of Biology

Sheldon Penman, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Cell Biology

William G. Quinn, PhDProfessor Emeritus of NeurobiologyProfessor Emeritus of Biology

Phillips W. Robbins, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Biochemistry

Robert Daniel Rosenberg, MD, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Biology



Leona D. Samson, PhDUncas (1923) and Helen Whitaker Professor EmeritaProfessor Emerita of Biological EngineeringProfessor Emerita of Biology

Paul R. Schimmel, PhDJohn D. MacArthur Professor EmeritusProfessor Emeritus of Biochemistry and Biophysics

Edward Mark Scolnick, MDProfessor of the Practice Emeritus of Biology

Ethan R. Signer, PhDProfessor Emeritus of Biology

JoAnne Stubbe, PhDNovartis Professor EmeritaProfessor Emerita of ChemistryProfessor Emerita of Biology

Undergraduate Subjects

Introductory BiologyAll ve subjects cover the same core material, comprising about 50%of the course, while the remaining material is specialized for eachversion as described below. Core material includes fundamentalprinciples of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and cellbiology. These topics address structure and regulation of genes,structure and synthesis of proteins, how these molecules areintegrated into cells and how cells communicate with one another.

7.012 Introductory BiologyPrereq: NoneU (Fall)5-0-7 units. BIOLOGYCredit cannot also be received for 7.013, 7.014, 7.015, 7.016, ES.7012,ES.7013

Exploration into areas of current research in molecular and cellbiology, immunology, neurobiology, human genetics, biochemistry,and evolution. Enrollment limited to seating capacity of classroom.Admittance may be controlled by lottery.E. Lander, C. Drennan

7.013 Introductory BiologyPrereq: NoneU (Spring)5-0-7 units. BIOLOGYCredit cannot also be received for 7.012, 7.014, 7.015, 7.016, ES.7012,ES.7013

Genomic approaches to human biology, including neuroscience,development, immunology, tissue repair and stem cells, tissueengineering, and infectious and inherited diseases, includingcancer. Enrollment limited to seating capacity of classroom.Admittance may be controlled by lottery.A. Amon, S. Bell, H. Sive

7.014 Introductory BiologyU (Spring)5-0-7 units. BIOLOGYCredit cannot also be received for 7.012, 7.013, 7.015, 7.016, ES.7012,ES.7013

Studies the fundamental principles of biology and their applicationtowards understanding the Earth as a dynamical system shaped bylife. Focuses on molecular ecology in order to show how processes atthe molecular level can illuminate macroscopic properties, includingevolution and maintenance of biogeochemical cycles, and ecologicalinteractions in ecosystems ranging from the ocean to the humangut. Includes quantitative analysis of population growth, communitystructure, competition, mutualism and predation; highlights theirrole in shaping the biosphere. Enrollment limited to seating capacityof classroom. Admittance may be controlled by lottery.G. C. Walker, D. DesMarais, M. Polz

7.015 Introductory BiologyPrereq: High school course covering cellular and molecular biologyor permission of instructorU (Fall)5-0-7 units. BIOLOGYCredit cannot also be received for 7.012, 7.013, 7.014, 7.016, ES.7012,ES.7013

Emphasizes the application of fundamental biological principlesto modern, trending topics in biology. Specic modules focuson antibiotic resistance, the microbiome, biotechnology (e.g.,genetically-modied organisms and CRISPR-based genome editing),personal genetics and genomics, neurodegenerative diseases, andmetabolism (the science behind making wine, cheese, and naturalproduct drugs). Includes discussion of the social and ethical issuessurrounding modern biology. Limited to 60; admittance may becontrolled by lottery.M. Laub, J. K. Weng



7.016 Introductory BiologyPrereq: NoneAcad Year 2019-2020: Not oeredAcad Year 2020-2021: U (Fall)5-0-7 units. BIOLOGYCredit cannot also be received for 7.012, 7.013, 7.014, 7.015, ES.7012,ES.7013

Introduction to fundamental principles of biochemistry, molecularbiology and genetics for understanding the functions of livingsystems. Covers examples of the use of chemical biology, the use ofgenetics in biological discovery, principles of cellular organizationand communication, and engineering biological systems. Inaddition, includes 21st-century molecular genetics in understandinghuman health and therapeutic intervention. Enrollment limited toseating capacity of classroom. Admittance may be controlled bylottery.B. Imperiali, A. Martin

7.002 Fundamentals of Experimental Molecular BiologyPrereq: NoneU (Fall, Spring)1-4-1 units. Partial Lab

Introduces the experimental concepts and methods of molecularbiology. Covers basic principles of experimental design anddata analysis, with an emphasis on the acquisition of practicallaboratory experience. Satises 6 units of Institute Laboratory credit.Enrollment limited.J. Lees

7.003[J] Applied Molecular Biology Laboratory (New)Same subject as 10.7003[J]Prereq: 7.002U (Fall, Spring)2-7-3 units. Partial Lab

Laboratory-based exploration of modern experimental molecularbiology. Specic experimental system studied may vary from term toterm, depending on instructor. Emphasizes concepts of experimentaldesign, data analysis and communication in biology and how theseconcepts are applied in the biotechnology industry. Satises 6units of Institute Laboratory credit. Limited to 50 due to laboratorycapacity.Fall: L. Boyer, E. Calo, H.D. Sikes; Spring: J. K. Weng, O. Yilmaz, H.D.Sikes

7.03 GeneticsPrereq: Biology (GIR)U (Fall, Spring)4-0-8 units. REST

The principles of genetics with application to the study of biologicalfunction at the level of molecules, cells, and multicellular organisms,including humans. Structure and function of genes, chromosomes,and genomes. Biological variation resulting from recombination,mutation, and selection. Population genetics. Use of geneticmethods to analyze protein function, gene regulation, and inheriteddisease. P. Reddien, M. Hemann, A. Regev

7.05 General BiochemistryPrereq: Biology (GIR), 5.12, or permission of instructorU (Spring)5-0-7 units. RESTCredit cannot also be received for 5.07[J], 20.507[J]

Contributions of biochemistry toward an understanding of thestructure and functioning of organisms, tissues, and cells. Chemistryand functions of constituents of cells and tissues and the chemicaland physical-chemical basis for the structures of nucleic acids,proteins, and carbohydrates. Basic enzymology and biochemicalreaction mechanisms involved in macromolecular synthesisand degradation, signaling, transport, and movement. Generalmetabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and nitrogen-containingmaterials such as amino acids, proteins, and related compounds.M. Vander Heiden, M. Yae

7.06 Cell BiologyPrereq: 7.03 and 7.05U (Fall, Spring)4-0-8 units

Presents the biology of cells of higher organisms. Studies thestructure, function, and biosynthesis of cellular membranes andorganelles; cell growth and oncogenic transformation; transport,receptors, and cell signaling; the cytoskeleton, the extracellularmatrix, and cell movements; cell division and cell cycle; functions ofspecialized cell types. Emphasizes the current molecular knowledgeof cell biological processes as well as the genetic, biochemical, andother experimental approaches that resulted in these discoveries.I. Cheeseman, J. T. Littleton, F. Solomon, R. Lamason



7.08[J] Fundamentals of Chemical BiologySame subject as 5.08[J]Subject meets with 7.80Prereq: (Biology (GIR), 5.13, and (5.07[J] or 7.05)) or permission ofinstructorU (Spring)4-0-8 units

See description under subject 5.08[J].B. Imperiali, L. Kiessling, R. Raines

7.09 Quantitative and Computational BiologyPrereq: 7.03 and 7.05U (Spring)3-0-9 units

Quantitative and computational analysis of biological systemsat the molecular and cellular level. Includes models of biologicalprocesses across dierent length and time scales, such as steady-state, kinetics of gene expression, circadian clock, stochasticity, andbiomolecular phase separation. Methods include physical, systems,and synthetic biology. Also covers single-molecule methods, second-generation sequencing technologies, and computational approachesto data analysis.A. Jain, G. W. Li

7.102 Introduction to Molecular Biology TechniquesPrereq: NoneU (IAP)0-5-1 units. Partial Lab

Designed primarily for rst-year students with little or no labexperience. Introduces basic methods of experimental molecularbiology. Specic experiments vary from year-to-year, but willfocus on the identication and characterization of bacteria andbacteriophages from the wild using an array of basic methods inmolecular biology and microbiology. Biology GIR or ChemistryGIR recommended. Satises 6 units of Institute Laboratory credit.Limited to 18; admittance may be controlled by lottery.C. Drennan

7.11 Biology TeachingPrereq: NoneU (Fall, Spring)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.

For qualied undergraduate students interested in gaining someexperience in teaching. Laboratory, tutorial, or classroom teachingunder the supervision of a faculty member. Students selected byinterview.Consult Biology Education Oce

7.19 Communication in Experimental BiologyPrereq: (7.06 and (5.362, 7.003[J], or 20.109)) or permission ofinstructorU (Fall, Spring)4-4-4 units

Students carry out independent literature research. Journal clubdiscussions are used to help students evaluate and write scienticpapers. Instruction and practice in written and oral communication isprovided.J. Chen, J. Davis, C. Kaiser

7.20[J] Human PhysiologySame subject as HST.540[J]Prereq: 7.05U (Fall)5-0-7 units

Comprehensive exploration of human physiology, emphasizingthe molecular basis and applied aspects of organ function andregulation in health and disease. Includes a review of cell structureand function, as well as the mechanisms by which the endocrine andnervous systems integrate cellular metabolism. Special emphasison examining the cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal,and renal systems, as well as liver function, drug metabolism, andpharmacogenetics.M. Krieger, D. Sabatini

7.21 Microbial PhysiologySubject meets with 7.62Prereq: 7.03 and 7.05U (Fall)4-0-8 units

Biochemical properties of bacteria and other microorganisms thatenable them to grow under a variety of conditions. Interactionbetween bacteria and bacteriophages. Genetic and metabolicregulation of enzyme action and enzyme formation. Structureand function of components of the bacterial cell envelope.Protein secretion with a special emphasis on its various roles inpathogenesis. Additional topics include bioenergetics, symbiosis,quorum sensing, global responses to DNA damage, and biolms.Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore thesubject in greater depth.G. C. Walker, A. J. Sinskey



7.23[J] ImmunologySame subject as 20.230[J]Subject meets with 7.63[J], 20.630[J]Prereq: 7.06U (Spring)5-0-7 units

Comprehensive survey of molecular, genetic, and cellular aspectsof the immune system. Topics include innate and adaptiveimmunity; cells and organs of the immune system; hematopoiesis;immunoglobulin, T cell receptor, and major histocompatibilitycomplex (MHC) proteins and genes; development and functions ofB and T lymphocytes; immune responses to infections and tumors;hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, and immunodeciencies. Particularattention to the development and function of the immune system asa whole, as studied by modern methods and techniques. Studentstaking graduate version explore the subject in greater depth,including study of recent primary literature.S. Spranger, M. Birnbaum

7.26 Molecular Basis of Infectious DiseaseSubject meets with 7.66Prereq: 7.06U (Spring)4-0-8 units

Focuses on the principles of host-pathogen interactions with anemphasis on infectious diseases of humans. Presents key conceptsof pathogenesis through the study of various human pathogens.Includes critical analysis and discussion of assigned readings.Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore thesubject in greater depth.R. Lamason, S. Lourido

7.27 Principles of Human Disease and AgingPrereq: 7.06Acad Year 2019-2020: Not oeredAcad Year 2020-2021: U (Spring)4-0-8 units

Covers modern approaches to human diseases and aging,emphasizing the molecular and cellular basis of genetic diseases,infectious diseases, aging, and cancer. Topics include the geneticsof simple and complex traits; karyotypic analysis and positionalcloning; genetic diagnosis; evolutionary determination of aging,genetic and molecular aspects of aging, HIV/AIDs and otherinfectious diseases; the roles of oncogenes and tumor suppressors;the interaction between genetics and environment; animal modelsof human disease, cancer, and aging; and treatment strategies fordiseases and aging. Includes a paper describing novel treatmentoptions for a specic disease chosen by each student.D. Housman, L. Guarente

7.28 Molecular BiologySubject meets with 7.58Prereq: 7.03; Coreq: 7.05U (Spring)5-0-7 units

Detailed analysis of the biochemical mechanisms that controlthe maintenance, expression, and evolution of prokaryotic andeukaryotic genomes. Topics covered in lecture and readings ofrelevant literature include: gene regulation, DNA replication, geneticrecombination, and mRNA translation. Logic of experimental designand data analysis emphasized. Presentations include both lecturesand group discussions of representative papers from the literature.Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore thesubject in greater depth.S. Bell, E. Calo

7.29[J] Cellular and Molecular NeurobiologySame subject as 9.09[J]Prereq: 7.05 or 9.01U (Spring)4-0-8 units

Introduction to the structure and function of the nervous system.Emphasizes the cellular properties of neurons and other excitablecells. Includes the structure and biophysical properties of excitablecells, synaptic transmission, neurochemistry, neurodevelopment,integration of information in simple systems, and detection andinformation coding during sensory transduction.M. Heiman, M. Wilson

7.30[J] Fundamentals of EcologySame subject as 1.018[J], 12.031[J]Prereq: NoneU (Fall)4-0-8 units. REST

See description under subject 1.018[J].M. Follows, D. Des Marais



7.31 Current Topics in Mammalian Biology: Medical ImplicationsPrereq: 7.06 or permission of instructorAcad Year 2019-2020: Not oeredAcad Year 2020-2021: U (Fall)4-0-8 units

Covers recent advances in mammalian cell and developmentalbiology with particular emphasis on approaches that utilize mousegenetics. Combines formal lectures on selected topics with readingsof original papers which are discussed in class. Major emphasison the implications of mechanisms of human genetic diseases.Topics include early mammalian development; genomic imprinting;X inactivation; embryonic stem cells; nuclear reprogramming ofsomatic cells; cell migration; nervous system development; andcentral nervous system degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer'sand Huntington's disease. Limited to 20.F. Gertler, R. Jaenisch

7.32 Systems BiologySubject meets with 7.81[J], 8.591[J]Prereq: (18.03 and 18.05) or permission of instructorU (Fall)3-0-9 units

Introduction to cellular and population-level systems biology withan emphasis on synthetic biology, modeling of genetic networks,cell-cell interactions, and evolutionary dynamics. Cellular systemsinclude genetic switches and oscillators, network motifs, geneticnetwork evolution, and cellular decision-making. Population-level systems include models of pattern formation, cell-cellcommunications, and evolutionary systems biology. Students takinggraduate version explore the subject in more depth.J. Gore

7.33[J] Evolutionary Biology: Concepts, Models and ComputationSame subject as 6.049[J]Prereq: (6.0001 and 7.03) or permission of instructorU (Spring)3-0-9 units

Explores and illustrates how evolution explains biology, withan emphasis on computational model building for analyzingevolutionary data. Covers key concepts of biological evolution,including adaptive evolution, neutral evolution, evolution of sex,genomic conflict, speciation, phylogeny and comparative methods,life's history, coevolution, human evolution, and evolution ofdisease.R. Berwick, D. Bartel

7.340-7.344 Advanced Undergraduate SeminarPrereq: 7.06 or 7.28U (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Seminars covering topics of current interest in biology with a focuson how to understand experimental methods and design and howto critically read the primary research literature. Small class sizefacilitates discussions and interactions with an active researchscientist. Students visit research laboratories to see rsthand howbiological research is conducted. Contact Biology Education Ocefor topics.H. R. Horvitz

7.345-7.349 Advanced Undergraduate SeminarPrereq: 7.06 or 7.28U (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Seminars covering topics of current interest in biology with a focuson how to understand experimental methods and design and howto critically read the primary research literature. Small class sizefacilitates discussions and interactions with an active researchscientist. Students visit research laboratories to see rsthand howbiological research is conducted. Contact Biology Education Ocefor topics.H. R. Horvitz

7.37[J] Molecular and Engineering Aspects of BiotechnologySame subject as 10.441[J], 20.361[J]Prereq: (7.06 and (2.005, 3.012, 5.60, or 20.110[J])) or permission ofinstructorU (Spring)Not oered regularly; consult department4-0-8 unitsCredit cannot also be received for 7.371

Covers biological and bioengineering principles underlying thedevelopment and therapeutic use of recombinant proteins andstem cells; glycoengineering of recombinant proteins; normaland pathological signaling by growth factors and their receptors;receptor tracking; monoclonal antibodies as therapeutics;protein pharmacology and delivery; stem cell-derived tissues astherapeutics; RNA therapeutics; combinatorial protein engineering;and new antitumor drugs.Sta



7.371 Biological and Engineering Principles Underlying NovelBiotherapeuticsPrereq: 7.06U (Fall)4-0-8 unitsCredit cannot also be received for 7.37[J], 10.441[J], 20.361[J]

Covers biological and bioengineering principles underlying thedevelopment and therapeutic use of recombinant proteins andimmune cells. Special attention to monoclonal antibodies andengineered immune system cells as therapeutics; protein- and glyco-engineering to enhance protein function; protein pharmacologyand delivery; nucleic acid- based biotherapeutics; generation offunctional cells and tissues from embryonic stem cells and iPS cells;and immune cell-cancer cell interactions in cancer immunotherapy.J. Chen, H. Lodish

7.45 The Hallmarks of CancerSubject meets with 7.85Prereq: None. Coreq: 7.06U (Fall)4-0-8 units

Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals ofcancer biology and cancer treatment. Topics include cancer genetics,genomics, and epigenetics; familial cancer syndromes; signaltransduction, cell cycle control, and apoptosis; cancer metabolism;stem cells and cancer; metastasis; cancer immunology andimmunotherapy; conventional and molecularly-targeted therapies;and early detection and prevention. Students taking graduateversion complete additional assignments.T. Jacks, M. Vander Heiden

7.46 Building with CellsSubject meets with 7.86Prereq: 7.03 and 7.05U (Fall)4-0-8 units

Identies principles of developmental biology by which cellsbuild organs and organisms. Explores the pivotal of stemcells in maintenance or repair, and in treatment of disease.Analyzes how cells can construct useful structures through tissueengineering. Students taking graduate version complete additionalassignments.H. Sive

7.458[J] Advances in BiomanufacturingSame subject as 10.03[J]Subject meets with 7.548[J], 10.53[J]Prereq: NoneU (Spring; second half of term)1-0-2 units

Seminar examines how biopharmaceuticals, an increasinglyimportant class of pharmaceuticals, are manufactured. Topicsrange from fundamental bioprocesses to new technologies tothe economics of biomanufacturing. Also covers the impact ofglobalization on regulation and quality approaches as well assupply chain integrity. Students taking graduate version completeadditional assignments.J. C. Love, A. Sinskey, S. Springs

7.49[J] Developmental NeurobiologySame subject as 9.18[J]Subject meets with 7.69[J], 9.181[J]Prereq: 7.03, 7.05, 9.01, or permission of instructorU (Spring)3-0-9 units

Considers molecular control of neural specication, formation ofneuronal connections, construction of neural systems, and thecontributions of experience to shaping brain structure and function.Topics include: neural induction and pattern formation, cell lineageand fate determination, neuronal migration, axon guidance, synapseformation and stabilization, activity-dependent development andcritical periods, development of behavior. Students taking graduateversion complete additional readings that will be addressed in theirmid-term and nal exams.E. Nedivi, M. Heiman

7.390 Practical Internship Experience in BiologyPrereq: NoneU (IAP, Summer)0-1-0 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

For Course 7, 5-7, and 6-7 students participating in curriculum-relatedo-campus internship experiences in biology. Before enrolling,students must consult the Biology Education Oce for details onprocedures and restrictions, and have approval from their facultyadvisor. Subject to department approval. Upon completion, thestudent must submit a write-up of the experience, approved by theirfaculty advisor.Sta



7.391 Independent Study in BiologyPrereq: NoneU (Fall, Spring, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Program of study or research to be arranged with a departmentfaculty member.Sta

7.392 Independent Study in BiologyPrereq: NoneU (Fall, IAP, Spring)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.


7.393 Independent Study in GeneticsPrereq: NoneU (Fall, Spring)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.


7.394 Independent Study in BiochemistryPrereq: NoneU (Fall, Spring)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.


7.395 Independent Study in Cell and Molecular BiologyPrereq: NoneU (Fall, Spring)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.


7.396 Independent Study in Experimental BiologyPrereq: NoneU (Fall, IAP, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.


7.S391 Special Subject in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorU (Fall, Spring, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Covers material in various elds of biology not oered by the regularsubjects of instruction.Sta

7.S392 Special Subject in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorU (Fall, IAP, Spring)Not oered regularly; consult departmentUnits arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.


7.S399 Special Subject in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorU (Fall, IAP, Spring)Not oered regularly; consult departmentUnits arrangedCan be repeated for credit.


7.UR Undergraduate ResearchPrereq: Permission of departmentU (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Undergraduate research opportunities in the Department of Biology.Sta



7.URG Undergraduate ResearchPrereq: Permission of departmentU (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.

Undergraduate research opportunities in the Department of Biology.Sta

Graduate Subjects

MIT-WHOI Joint Program in Oceanography

7.410 Applied StatisticsPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Provides an introduction to modern applied statistics. Topics includelikelihood-based methods for estimation, condence intervals, andhypothesis-testing; bootstrapping; time series modeling; linearmodels; nonparametric regression; and model selection. Organizedaround examples drawn from the recent literature.A. Solow

7.411 Seminars in Biological OceanographyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Selected topics in biological oceanography.WHOI Sta

7.421 Problems in Biological OceanographyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Advanced problems in biological oceanography with assignedreading and consultation.Information: M. Neubert (WHOI)

7.430 Topics in Quantitative Marine SciencePrereq: Permission of instructorAcad Year 2019-2020: Not oeredAcad Year 2020-2021: G (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussions on quantitative marine ecology. Topics varyfrom year to year.WHOI Sta

7.431 Topics in Marine EcologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussions on ecological principles and processes inmarine populations, communities, and ecosystems. Topics vary fromyear to year.WHOI Sta

7.432 Topics in Marine Physiology and BiochemistryPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussions on physiological and biochemicalprocesses in marine organisms. Topics vary from year to year.WHOI Sta

7.433 Topics in Biological OceanographyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussions on biological oceanography. Topics varyfrom year to year.WHOI Sta

7.434 Topics in Zooplankton BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussions on the biology of marine zooplankton.Topics vary from year to year.WHOI Sta



7.435 Topics in Benthic BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussions on the biology of marine benthos. Topicsvary from year to year.WHOI Sta

7.436 Topics in Phytoplankton BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussion on the biology of marine phytoplankton.Topics vary from year to year.WHOI Sta

7.437 Topics in Molecular Biological OceanographyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussion on molecular biological oceanography.Topics vary from year to year.WHOI Sta

7.438 Topics in the Behavior of Marine AnimalsPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussion on the behavioral biology of marineanimals. Topics vary from year to year.WHOI Sta

7.439 Topics in Marine MicrobiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)2-0-4 unitsCan be repeated for credit.

Lectures and discussion on the biology of marine prokaryotes. Topicsvary from year to year.WHOI Sta

7.440 An Introduction to Mathematical EcologyPrereq: Calculus I (GIR), 1.018[J], or permission of instructorAcad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered3-0-9 units

Covers the basic models of population growth, demography,population interaction (competition, predation, mutualism), foodwebs, harvesting, and infectious disease, and the mathematicaltools required for their analysis. Because these tools are also basicto the analysis of models in biochemistry, physiology, and behavior,subject also broadly relevant to students whose interests are notlimited to ecological problems.M. Neubert (WHOI)

7.470 Biological OceanographyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 units

Intended for students with advanced training in biology. Intensiveoverview of biological oceanography. Major paradigms discussed,and dependence of biological processes in the ocean on physicaland chemical aspects of the environment examined. Surveys thediversity of marine habitats, major groups of taxa inhabiting thosehabitats, and the general biology of the various taxa: the productionand consumption of organic material in the ocean, as well as factorscontrolling those processes. Species diversity, structure of marinefood webs, and the flow of energy within dierent marine habitatsare detailed and contrasted.WHOI Sta

7.491 Research in Biological OceanographyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Directed research in biological oceanography not leading to graduatethesis and initiated prior to the qualifying exam.WHOI Sta



Microbiology (MICRO)

7.492[J] Methods and Problems in MicrobiologySame subject as 1.86[J], 20.445[J]Prereq: NoneG (Fall)3-0-9 units

Students will read and discuss primary literature covering key areasof microbial research with emphasis on methods and approachesused to understand and manipulate microbes. Preference to rst-year Microbiology and Biology students.M. Laub

7.493[J] Microbial Genetics and EvolutionSame subject as 1.87[J], 12.493[J], 20.446[J]Prereq: 7.03, 7.05, or permission of instructorG (Fall)4-0-8 units

Covers aspects of microbial genetic and genomic analyses, centraldogma, horizontal gene transfer, and evolution.A. D. Grossman, O. Cordero

7.494 Research Problems in MicrobiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Directed research in the elds of microbial science and engineering.Sta

7.498 Teaching Experience in MicrobiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

For qualied graduate students in the Microbiology graduateprogram interested in teaching. Classroom or laboratory teachingunder the supervision of a faculty member.Sta

7.499 Research Rotations in MicrobiologyPrereq: None. Coreq: 7.492[J] or 7.493[J]; permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Introduces students to faculty participating in the interdepartmentalMicrobiology graduate program through a series of three labrotations, which provide broad exposure to microbiology research atMIT. Students select a lab for thesis research by the end of their rstyear. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the program and the manyresearch programs available, students may be able to work jointlywith more than one research supervisor. Limited to students in theMicrobiology graduate program.Sta

7.MTHG Microbiology Graduate ThesisPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.

Program of research leading to the writing of a PhD thesis. To bearranged by the student and the appropriate MIT faculty member.Sta

Biology

7.50 Method and Logic in Molecular BiologyPrereq: None. Coreq: 7.51 and 7.52; or permission of instructorG (Fall)4-0-8 units

Logic, experimental design and methods in biology, usingdiscussions of the primary literature to discern the principlesof biological investigation in making discoveries and testinghypotheses. In collaboration with faculty, students also apply thoseprinciples to generate a potential research project, presented in bothwritten and oral form. Limited to Course 7 graduate students.I. Cheeseman, M. Gehring, M. Hemann, J. Lees, D. Sabatini, F.Solomon



7.51 Principles of Biochemical AnalysisPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall)6-0-6 units

Principles of biochemistry, emphasizing structure, equilibriumstudies, kinetics, informatics, single-molecule studies, andexperimental design. Topics include macromolecular bindingand specicity, protein folding and unfolding, allosteric systems,transcription factors, kinases, membrane channels and transporters,and molecular machines.A. Keating, R. T. Sauer

7.52 Genetics for Graduate StudentsPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall)4-0-8 units

Principles and approaches of genetic analysis, including Mendelianinheritance and prokaryotic genetics, yeast genetics, developmentalgenetics, neurogenetics, and human genetics.H. R. Horvitz, C. Kaiser, E. Lander

7.540[J] Frontiers in Chemical BiologySame subject as 5.54[J], 20.554[J]Prereq: 5.07[J], 5.13, 7.06, and permission of instructorG (Fall)3-0-9 units

See description under subject 5.54[J].L. Kiessling, M. Shoulders

7.546[J] Science and Business of BiotechnologySame subject as 15.480[J], 20.586[J]Prereq: None. Coreq: 15.401; permission of instructorAcad Year 2019-2020: Not oeredAcad Year 2020-2021: G (Spring)3-0-6 units

See description under subject 15.480[J].A. Lo, H. Lodish

7.547[J] Principles and Practice of Drug DevelopmentSame subject as 10.547[J], 15.136[J], HST.920[J], IDS.620[J]Prereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall)3-0-6 units

See description under subject 15.136[J].T. J. Allen, C. L. Cooney, S. N. Finkelstein, A. J. Sinskey, G. K. Raju

7.548[J] Advances in BiomanufacturingSame subject as 10.53[J]Subject meets with 7.458[J], 10.03[J]Prereq: NoneG (Spring; second half of term)1-0-2 units

Seminar examines how biopharmaceuticals, an increasinglyimportant class of pharmaceuticals, are manufactured. Topicsrange from fundamental bioprocesses to new technologies tothe economics of biomanufacturing. Also covers the impact ofglobalization on regulation and quality approaches as well assupply chain integrity. Students taking graduate version completeadditional assignments.J. C. Love, A. Sinskey, S. Springs

7.549[J] Case Studies and Strategies in Drug Discovery andDevelopmentSame subject as 15.137[J], 20.486[J], HST.916[J]Prereq: NoneG (Spring)2-0-4 units

See description under subject 20.486[J].A. W. Wood

7.55 Case Studies in Modern Experimental DesignPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)2-0-7 units

Focuses on enhancing students' ability to analyze, designand present experiments, emphasizing modern techniques.Class discussions begin with papers that developed or utilizedcontemporary approaches (e.g., quantitative microscopy, biophysicaland molecular genetic methods) to address important problemsin biology. Each student prepares one specic aim of a standardresearch proposal for a project that emphasizes research strategy,experimental design, and writing.F. Solomon, S. Spranger



7.57 Quantitative Biology for Graduate StudentsPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)4-0-8 units

Introduces the fundamental concepts and tools of quantitativeapproaches to molecular and cellular biology. Covers a widerange of mathematical, computational, and statistical methods,although no previous expertise in these areas is required. Focuseson understanding quantitative approaches through the analysis ofparticular problems and examples drawn from classical genetics,molecular biology, cell biology, genomics, and systems biology.J. Davis, G. W. Li

7.58 Molecular BiologySubject meets with 7.28Prereq: 7.03, 7.05, and permission of instructorG (Spring)5-0-7 units

Detailed analysis of the biochemical mechanisms that controlthe maintenance, expression, and evolution of prokaryotic andeukaryotic genomes. Topics covered in lecture and readings ofrelevant literature include: gene regulation, DNA replication, geneticrecombination, and mRNA translation. Logic of experimental designand data analysis emphasized. Presentations include both lecturesand group discussions of representative papers from the literature.Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore thesubject in greater depth.S. Bell, E. Calo

7.59[J] Teaching College-Level Science and EngineeringSame subject as 1.95[J], 5.95[J], 8.395[J], 18.094[J]Subject meets with 2.978Prereq: NoneAcad Year 2019-2020: Not oeredAcad Year 2020-2021: G (Fall)2-0-2 units

See description under subject 5.95[J].J. Rankin

7.60 Cell Biology: Structure and Functions of the NucleusPrereq: 7.06 or permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 units

Eukaryotic genome structure, function, and expression, processingof RNA, and regulation of the cell cycle. Emphasis on the techniquesand logic used to address important problems in nuclear cell biology.Lectures on broad topic areas in nuclear cell biology and discussionson representative recent papers.L. Boyer, R. Young

7.61[J] Eukaryotic Cell Biology: Principles and PracticeSame subject as 20.561[J]Prereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall)4-0-8 units

Emphasizes methods and logic used to analyze structure andfunction of eukaryotic cells in diverse systems (e.g., yeast,fly, worm, mouse, human; development, stem cells, neurons).Combines lectures and in-depth roundtable discussions of literaturereadings with the active participation of faculty experts. Focuses onmembranes (structure, function, trac), organelles, the cell surface,signal transduction, cytoskeleton, cell motility and extracellularmatrix. Ranges from basic studies to applications to human disease,while stressing critical analysis of experimental approaches.Enrollment limited.R. Hynes, M. Krieger, M. Yae

7.62 Microbial PhysiologySubject meets with 7.21Prereq: 7.03, 7.05, and permission of instructorG (Fall)4-0-8 units

Biochemical properties of bacteria and other microorganisms thatenable them to grow under a variety of conditions. Interactionbetween bacteria and bacteriophages. Genetic and metabolicregulation of enzyme action and enzyme formation. Structureand function of components of the bacterial cell envelope.Protein secretion with a special emphasis on its various roles inpathogenesis. Additional topics include bioenergetics, symbiosis,quorum sensing, global responses to DNA damage, and biolms.Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore thesubject in greater depth.G. C. Walker, A. J. Sinskey



7.63[J] ImmunologySame subject as 20.630[J]Subject meets with 7.23[J], 20.230[J]Prereq: 7.06 and permission of instructorG (Spring)5-0-7 units

Comprehensive survey of molecular, genetic, and cellular aspectsof the immune system. Topics include innate and adaptiveimmunity; cells and organs of the immune system; hematopoiesis;immunoglobulin, T cell receptor, and major histocompatibilitycomplex (MHC) proteins and genes; development and functions ofB and T lymphocytes; immune responses to infections and tumors;hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, and immunodeciencies. Particularattention to the development and function of the immune system asa whole, as studied by modern methods and techniques. Studentstaking graduate version explore the subject in greater depth,including study of recent primary literature.S. Spranger, M. Birnbaum

7.64 Molecular Mechanisms, Pathology and Therapy of HumanNeuromuscular DisordersPrereq: Permission of instructorAcad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered3-0-9 units

Investigates the molecular and clinical basis of central nervoussystem and neuromuscular disorders with particular emphasison strategies for therapeutic intervention. Considers the in-depth analysis of clinical features, pathological mechanisms,and responses to current therapeutic interventions. Coversneurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington's disease,Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Amyotropic LateralSchlerosis, Frontal Temporal Dementia, and neuromusculardisorders, such as Myotonic Dystrophy, Facio Scapular HumoralDystrophy, and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.D. Housman

7.65[J] Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience Core ISame subject as 9.015[J]Prereq: NoneG (Fall)3-0-9 units

See description under subject 9.015[J].J. T. Littleton, H. Sive

7.66 Molecular Basis of Infectious DiseaseSubject meets with 7.26Prereq: 7.06 and permission of instructorG (Spring)4-0-8 units

Focuses on the principles of host-pathogen interactions with anemphasis on infectious diseases of humans. Presents key conceptsof pathogenesis through the study of various human pathogens.Includes critical analysis and discussion of assigned readings.Students taking the graduate version are expected to explore thesubject in greater depth.R. Lamason, S. Lourido

7.68[J] Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience Core IISame subject as 9.013[J]Prereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 units

See description under subject 9.013[J].G. Feng, L.-H. Tsai

7.69[J] Developmental NeurobiologySame subject as 9.181[J]Subject meets with 7.49[J], 9.18[J]Prereq: 9.011 or permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 units

See description under subject 9.181[J].E. Nedivi, M. Heiman

7.70 Regulation of Gene ExpressionPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)Not oered regularly; consult department4-0-8 units

Seminar examines basic principles of biological regulation of geneexpression. Focuses on examples that underpin these principles,as well as those that challenge certain long-held views. Topicscovered may include the role of transcription factors, enhancers,DNA modications, non-coding RNAs, and chromatin structure inthe regulation of gene expression and mechanisms for epigeneticinheritance of transcriptional states. Limited to 40.Sta



7.71 Structural and Biophysical Analysis of BiologicalMacromoleculesSubject meets with 5.78Prereq: 5.13, 5.60, (5.07[J] or 7.05), and permission of instructorAcad Year 2019-2020: G (Spring)Acad Year 2020-2021: Not oered5-0-7 units

Studies theory and practice of 3-D analysis of macromolecules,using X-ray crystallography and EM analysis. Covers biophysicalmethods to characterize molecular properties and interactions.Includes discussion of current literature and, importantly, practicalexercises in crystallization, model building, and the use of sharedinstrumentation available at MIT. Meets with 5.78 when oeredconcurrently.T. Schwartz

7.72 Stem Cells, Regeneration, and DevelopmentPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)4-0-8 units

Topics include diverse stem cells, such as muscle, intestine, skin,hair and hematopoietic stem cells, as well as pluripotent stem cells.Topics address cell polarity and cell fate; positional informationand patterning of development and regeneration; limb, heart andwhole body regeneration; stem cell renewal; progenitor cells indevelopment; responses to wounding; and applications of stem cellsin development of therapies. Discussions of papers supplementlectures.R. Hynes, P. Reddien

7.73 Principles of Chemical BiologyPrereq: 7.05 and permission of instructorG (Spring)Not oered regularly; consult department3-0-9 units

Spanning the elds of biology, chemistry and engineering,class addresses the principles of chemical biology and itsapplication of chemical and physical methods and reagents tothe study and manipulation of biological systems. Topics includebioorthogonal reactions and activity-based protein proling, smallmolecule inhibitors and chemical genetics, fluorescent probes forbiological studies, and unnatural amino acid mutagenesis. Alsocovers chemical biology approaches for studying dynamic post-translational modication reactions, natural product biosynthesisand mutasynthesis, and high-throughput drug screening. Studentstaking the graduate version are expected to explore the subject ingreater depth.B. Imperiali, J. K. Weng

7.74[J] Topics in Biophysics and Physical BiologySame subject as 8.590[J], 20.416[J]Prereq: NoneG (Fall)2-0-4 units

See description under subject 20.416[J].I. Cisse, N. Fakhri, M. Guo

7.76 Topics in Macromolecular Structure and FunctionPrereq: Permission of instructorAcad Year 2019-2020: Not oeredAcad Year 2020-2021: G (Spring)3-0-6 units

In-depth analysis and discussion of classic and current literature,with an emphasis on the structure, function, and mechanisms ofproteins and other biological macromolecules.T. Baker, R. T. Sauer

7.77 Nucleic Acids, Structure, Function, Evolution and TheirInteractions with ProteinsPrereq: 7.05, 7.51, or permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 units

Surveys primary literature, focusing on biochemical, biophysical,genetic, and combinatorial approaches for understanding nucleicacids. Topics include the general properties, functions, andstructural motifs of DNA and RNA; RNAs as catalysts and asregulators of gene expression; RNA editing and surveillance, andthe interaction of nucleic acids with proteins, such as zinc-ngerproteins, modication enzymes, aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases andother proteins of the translational machinery. Includes some lecturesbut is mostly analysis and discussion of current literature in thecontext of student presentations.D. Bartel, U. RajBhandary



7.80 Fundamentals of Chemical BiologySubject meets with 5.08[J], 7.08[J]Prereq: 5.13 and (5.07[J] or 7.05)G (Spring)4-0-8 units

Spanning the elds of biology, chemistry, and engineering, thisclass introduces students to the principles of chemical biology andthe application of chemical and physical methods and reagents tothe study and manipulation of biological systems. Topics includenucleic acid structure, recognition, and manipulation; proteinfolding and stability, and proteostasis; bioorthogonal reactionsand activity-based protein proling; chemical genetics and small-molecule inhibitor screening; fluorescent probes for biologicalanalysis and imaging; and unnatural amino acid mutagenesis.The class will also discuss the logic of dynamic post-translationalmodication reactions with an emphasis on chemical biologyapproaches for studying complex processes including glycosylation,phosphorylation, and lipidation. Students taking the graduateversion are expected to explore the subject in greater depth.B. Imperiali, L. Kiessling, R. Raines

7.81[J] Systems BiologySame subject as 8.591[J]Subject meets with 7.32Prereq: (18.03 and 18.05) or permission of instructorG (Fall)3-0-9 units

See description under subject 8.591[J].J. Gore

7.82 Topics of Mammalian Development and GeneticsPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 units

Seminar covering embryologic, molecular, and genetic approachesto development in mice and humans. Topics include preimplantationdevelopment; gastrulation; embryonic stem cells, gene targetingand nuclear reprogramming of somatic cells; genomic imprinting; X-inactivation; sex determination; and germ cells.R. Jaenisch, R. Young

7.85 The Hallmarks of CancerSubject meets with 7.45Prereq: None. Coreq: 7.06; permission of instructorG (Fall)4-0-8 units

Provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals ofcancer biology and cancer treatment. Topics include cancer genetics,genomics, and epigenetics; familial cancer syndromes; signaltransduction, cell cycle control, and apoptosis; cancer metabolism;stem cells and cancer; metastasis; cancer immunology andimmunotherapy; conventional and molecularly-targeted therapies;and early detection and prevention. Students taking graduateversion complete additional assignments.T. Jacks, M. Vander Heiden

7.86 Building with CellsSubject meets with 7.46Prereq: 7.03 and 7.05G (Fall)4-0-8 units

Identies principles of developmental biology by which cellsbuild organs and organisms. Explores the pivotal of stemcells in maintenance or repair, and in treatment of disease.Analyzes how cells can construct useful structures through tissueengineering. Students taking graduate version complete additionalassignments.H. Sive

7.89[J] Topics in Computational and Systems BiologySame subject as CSB.100[J]Prereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall)2-0-10 units

See description under subject CSB.100[J]. Preference to rst-yearCSB PhD students.C. Burge

7.930[J] Research Experience in BiopharmaSame subject as 20.930[J]Prereq: NoneG (Fall)2-10-0 units

See description under subject 20.930[J].S. Clarke



7.931 Independent Study in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.


7.932 Independent Study in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.


7.933 Research Rotations in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Introduces students to faculty participating in the Biology graduateprogram through a series of lab rotations, which provide broadexposure to biology research at MIT. Students select a lab for thesisresearch by the end of their rst year. Limited to students in theBiology graduate program.Sta

7.934 Teaching Experience in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]

For qualied graduate students in the Biology graduate programinterested in teaching. Classroom or laboratory teaching under thesupervision of a faculty member.Sta

7.935 Responsible Conduct in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall)Units arranged [P/D/F]

Sessions focus on the responsible conduct of science. Considersrecordkeeping and reporting; roles of mentor and mentee;authorship, review, and condentiality; resolving conflicts;misfeasance and malfeasance; collaborations, competing interests,and intellectual property; and proper practices in the use of animaland human subjects. Limited to second-year graduate students inBiology.Sta

7.936 Professional Development in Biology (New)Prereq: NoneG (Fall, Spring)0-2-0 units

Required for course 7 doctoral students to gain professionalperspective in career development activities such as internships,scientic meetings, and career and networking events. Written reportrequired upon completion of activities.Sta

7.941 Research ProblemsPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Directed research in a eld of biological science, but not contributoryto graduate thesis.Consult Biology Education Oce

7.942 Research ProblemsPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.

Directed research in a eld of biological science, but not contributoryto graduate thesis.Consult Biology Education Oce



7.95 Cancer BiologyPrereq: 7.85 and permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-9 units

Advanced seminar involving intensive analysis of historical andcurrent developments in cancer biology. Topics address principles ofapoptosis, principles of cancer biology, cancer genetics, cancer cellmetabolism, tumor immunology, and therapy. Detailed analysis ofresearch literature, including important reports published in recentyears. Enrollment limited.R. Weinberg, O. Yilmaz

7.98[J] Neural Plasticity in Learning and MemorySame subject as 9.301[J]Prereq: Permission of instructorG (Spring)3-0-6 units

See description under subject 9.301[J]. Juniors and seniors requireinstructor's permission.S. Tonegawa

7.S930 Special Subject in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.


7.S931 Special Subject in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, Spring, Summer)Units arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.


7.S932 Special Subject in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, IAP, Spring)Not oered regularly; consult departmentUnits arranged [P/D/F]Can be repeated for credit.


7.S939 Special Subject in BiologyPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, IAP, Spring)Not oered regularly; consult departmentUnits arrangedCan be repeated for credit.


7.THG Graduate Biology ThesisPrereq: Permission of instructorG (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)Units arrangedCan be repeated for credit.

Program of research leading to the writing of a Ph.D. thesis; to bearranged by the student and an appropriate MIT faculty member.Sta


Documents

Department of Biology - MITcatalog.mit.edu › schools › science › biology › biology.pdf · structure enables function. Applying principles and tools from chemistry and physics,