Fall 2022

Quantitative Imaging

Listed in: Biochemistry-Biophysics, as BCBP-391  |  Biology, as BIOL-391  |  Neuroscience, as NEUR-391

Faculty

Marc A. Edwards (Sections 01, 01L and 02L)
Sally A. Kim (Sections 01, 01L and 02L)

Description

(Offered as BIOL 391, BCBP 391, and NEUR-391) Fluorescence imaging offers a window to understanding the structure and function of living cells at sub-cellular resolution. This laboratory and lecture course will focus on advanced quantitative fluorescence microscopy techniques used for imaging a range of biological model systems and functions ranging from single molecules to cells to tissues. Students will learn the fundamentals of optics and microscopy and gain hands-on experience with classical and emerging imaging technology including: confocal microscopy, deconvolution and super-resolution methods, and live-cell imaging. Fluorescent probes and genetically encoded biosensors will be discussed and used to study dynamic cellular processes. In addition, the class will explore a range of image processing and analysis workflows. Lectures dealing with the theory, mechanics, and application of fluorescent imaging methods will be intermingled with extended laboratory sessions in our new Amherst Biological Imaging Center.

Pre requisites : BIOL 191 and PHYS 117 and one of BIOL/BCBP291, BIOL221 or BIOL/NEUR 301, or with instructor permission.

There will be two 80-minute lectures and a weekly laboratory. Limited to 12 students. Fall semester. Professors Edwards and Kim  

How to handle overenrollment: Preference will be given to Biology, Neuroscience, and BCBP majors by seniority.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Laboratory-based skills assessments, group work, readings, oral presentations, quantitative work, off-site visits to research facilities, and computational analysis.

BIOL 391 - LEC

Section 01
Tu 10:00 AM - 11:20 AM SCCE A331
Th 10:00 AM - 11:20 AM SCCE A331

BIOL 391 - LAB

Section 01L
W 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM SCCE B227

Section 02L
Th 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM SCCE B227

Offerings

2023-24: Not offered
Other years: Offered in Fall 2022, Spring 2025