BIOL 376: Virology

Viruses are everywhere and are the most abundant inhabitants of the biosphere. In this course, students learn what makes viruses biologically successful, how viruses adapt to dynamic environments, and how viruses respond to host defenses such as immunity and the microbiome. This course provides a foundation for virology with a focus on medically important viruses. Students explore the following concepts: virus classification, the infectious cycle, viral genomes and coding strategies, viral discovery, virus structure and function, host responses to infection, and virus transmission. The course emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning, including gaining experience in tools for viral discovery and epidemiological outbreak investigation. By taking this course, students advance their skills and understanding of virology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, emerging infectious disease, and global health.