Professor: Miller, Gerbi Course format: Lecture w/Section Number of respondents: 39 Total Enrollment: 48 Class Composition: Froshs: 0 Sophs: 0 Jrs: 17 Srs: 13 Concs: 27 Non-Concs: 7 Don't Know: 0

Instructor Average: 1.64 Course Average: 1.63

"Biology of the Eukaryotic Cell" is an intensive, upper-level course in molecular biology designed for both biology concentrators and those with a strong interest in the subject. It explores the cell, cellular functions and cellular regulation. Bio 28 is a required prerequisite, and BI 47 is recommended.

The course was co-taught by Professors Ken Miller and Susan Gerbi. Professor Miller was praised as an extremely clear and engaging lecturer, whose dynamic style deeply motivated many students. His few critics wished he had progressed more slowly, but admitted that the nature of the class largely prevented any reductions in pace. Professor Gerbi was also generally praised for her enthusiasm and clarity. Although not quite as "theatric" as Professor Miller, in one student"s words,Professor Gerbi was nonetheless a fairly strong lecturer, though hampered by her need to race through the extensive material.

Course work comprised an in-class midterm, a take-home midterm, and a final exam. In addition, students were required to devise a research proposal to answer a specific, current question in cellular biology. This project was part of an effort to encourage students to read and understand primary scientific literature, which was part of the assigned reading. A textbook was also used for weekly readings. Students found the workload very intense, and found studying for exams and making sense of journal articles particularly taxing. Students typically spent eight to eleven hours per week on the course, with an average of about ten.

Although class members noted the heavy amount of study this course required, most were greatly strengthened by their ordeal, having learned an enormous amount both about cellular biology and about interpreting journal articles written in that field. The professors were both exceptionally strong, especially the ever-praised Ken Miller. Their knowledge and enthusiasm motivated the class, although Professor Miller himself noted that the class didn"t seem to need much extra motivation.

For a class that will provide a powerful foundation in molecular biology, "Biology of the Eukaryotic Cell" is ideal. It is challenging indeed, but well worth the effort.

View BI/0105 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.