Teaching

I teach the following courses at Lafayette:

FYS 153 Designer Genes: The Science and Ethics of Genome Editing
Scientists have developed tools to directly manipulate DNA, but should we use them? In this course, we will examine the history of attempts at genetic modification leading up to the technologies available today. We will work along the way to separate fact from fiction in the public discourse on this topic and explore the broad range of considerations beyond just the science going into decisions about where to draw the line on allowable genetic modifications.
FYS 153 Designer Genes Syllabus 

NEUR 201 Introduction to Neuroscience
Your nervous system is critically important in your day to day life. Without a properly functioning nervous system you wouldn’t be able to sleep through the night or get out of bed in the morning. This course is an introductory survey of neuroscience that will cover both the structure and function of the nervous system at molecular, cellular, systems, behavioral and cognitive levels. Students will also become familiar with approaches used by neuroscientists through examining neuroscience research.
Neur 201 Intro Neuro Syllabus

NEUR 256 Neurobiology + Lab
This course examines the field of neuroscience with a particular focus on how the nervous system functions at a cellular and molecular level. After a review of basic neuronal cell biology, the course will examine the means by which these highly differentiated cells mediate information flow through synaptic transmission and circuitry. Finally, we will examine the development of the nervous system and the interaction of genetics and environment that constantly fine-tunes nervous system function throughout life. Students will accomplish course learning objectives through a combination of assigned readings, videos and simulations, class discussions, analysis of primary research articles, and applications of what they’ve learned in the laboratory.
Neur/Bio 256 Neurobiology + Lab Syllabus

NEUR 353 Neuroregeneration
Our neuronal tissues are particularly sensitive to injury and in many cases, are not able to repair themselves. This course explores the problem of neuronal regeneration through in class discussions and an analysis of primary research literature. We will investigate invertebrates and amphibians with remarkable regenerative capabilities as well as regeneration of axons and sensory cells in both mammalian and non-mammalian systems.
Neur 353 Neuroregeneration Syllabus

NEUR 401 Advanced Neuroscience
This capstone course for the neuroscience major builds upon information covered in Neurobiology (Neur/Biol 256) and Physiological Psychology (Neur/Psyc 323). Through reading of the neuroscience literature, presentations, writing and discussion, we will explore in greater depth new and emerging topics in the field of neuroscience.
Neur 401 Advanced Neuroscience Syllabus