This course gives fundamentals of diverse fields of life science and introduction of current topics. The classes cover fundamentals of biotechnology, genetics, evolution, systematics, ecology, as well as current topics such as genetic diseases and environmental problems.
This course aims to provide fundamental knowledge on life sciences as the basis not only for advanced life sciences but also for broad fields in science and technology.
By the end of this course, students will understand the fundamentals of life sciences, which shall be the basis for broad fields in advanced science and technology. In addition, the students will more deeply understand current topics related to life sciences.
biology, biotechnology, genetics, evolution, ecology
✔ Specialist skills | ✔ Intercultural skills | Communication skills | Critical thinking skills | Practical and/or problem-solving skills |
Students will learn about the topics with a textbook, PowerPoint slides, and handouts. Students are divided into eight classes (in Japanese) and one (in English), taking a class session once per week.
Course schedule | Required learning | |
---|---|---|
Class 1 | Genetics and genetic diseases | Understand the basis of genetics and what genetic diseases are |
Class 2 | Biotechnology I: Basic technologies | Understand basic techniques commonly used in biotechnology |
Class 3 | Biotechnology II: Applications | Understand the importance of biotechnology in our society |
Class 4 | Origin and early evolution of life | Understand the theories of origin and early evolution of life |
Class 5 | Evolution and systematics: natural selection and molecular evolution | Understand the basic mechanisms of evolution and basis of systematics |
Class 6 | Ecology and biodiversity | Understand the basis of ecology and what biodiversity is |
Class 7 | Ecosystems and environments | Understand the basis of ecosystems and importance of conservation of environments |
Class 8 | Integral study | Unify the knowledge learned in Classes 1 to 7 |
"Biology", C. Starr, C.A. Evers, L. Starr
"Introduction to Biology", MIT OpenCourseWare
Learning achievement is evaluated by short tests in every classes and a final exam.
Students are expected to have completed Fundamental Life Science 1-1, 1-2, and 2-1 (not conditioned).
takahashi.m.ay[at]m.titech.ac.jp (Prof. Masayuki Takahashi)
Contact by e-mail.
A tutoring room for this class is opened. The date and time are announced when fixed.