Photosynthesis

Modern engineering research focuses on designing new materials and processes at the molecular level. Statistical thermodynamics provides the formalism for understanding how molecular interactions lead to the observed collective behavior at the macroscale. This course will develop a molecular-level understanding of key thermodynamic quantities like heat, work, free energy [...]

This class is aimed at people interested in understanding the basic science of plant biology. In this four lecture series, we'll first learn about the structure-function of plants and of plant cells. Then we'll try to understand how plants grow and develop, making such complex structures as flowers. Once [...]

For centuries we have collectively marveled at plant diversity and form—from Charles Darwin’s early fascination with stems and flowers to Seymour Krelborn’s distorted doting in Little Shop of Horrors. This course intends to present an intriguing and scientifically valid look at how plants themselves experience the world—from the colors [...]

Everyone knows that energy is essential for sustaining life. How can you define energy in life? Have ever thought about ways of how carbohydrates like glucose from your diet can be used for extracting energy? A scientific field that focuses on energy production and flow though living cells and [...]

Learn about the chemical principles behind key synthetic processes relevant to life such as protein synthesis, photosynthesis, and ammonia synthesis. Nobel Lectures and key scientific papers will be used. “Syntheses for Life” will start with the Bohr model of hydrogen atom and discuss chemical evolution, protein synthesis and structure, [...]

The course is an introduction to microbiomes and sustainability. It argues that global microbiomes are fundamentally relevant to sustainability. Topics include principles of sustainability, sustainable development, microbiomes in humans and the environment, bioremediation, and bioretention. For more than 3.5 billion years microbes and their communities (microbiomes) have shaped the [...]

Learn about how the quality of water is a direct result of complex bio-geo-chemical interactions, and about how to use these processes to mitigate water quality issues. Interested in environmental issues, but unsure where to start? This is the course for you! High quality water, to be provided for [...]

This course is intended for the student interested in understanding and appreciating common biological topics in the study of the smallest units within biology: molecules and cells.