Life of the Mind

With the recent mapping of the human genome, genetics courses proliferate, bringing DNA to life for Chicago undergrads.

Genetics in the News
Taught by Lynne Arneson, PhD'97, this common core course examines breaking news in genetics and genetic engineering. Topics include genetics in forensics, genes that cause human disease, gene therapy, and cloning of mammals from adult cells. Discussions focus on the biology behind the news and the implications for society.

Evolutionary Genomics
Assistant professor Manyuan Long introduces students to the new field of genomic-data analysis, focusing on the evolution of genes and genomes of several organisms, as well as major accomplishments in the field. Students learn basic skills such as computer programming and simulation to analyze available genomic databases.

Anthropology of Science: Genetics and Reconfiguring Social Imaginaries
Taught by Nadia Abu El-Haj, assistant professor of anthropology, this class examines major questions raised by new technologies. Are there novel conceptions of bodies and selves enabled by genetics? What is the relationship of identity to DNA in light of recent cloning debates? What happens to our understandings of life if it can be manufactured-and even improved-through technological intervention?

Molecular Dissection of the Gene and Genome
Molecular genetics discoveries are revising basic concepts of heredity and evolution. Professor of biochemistry and biology James Shapiro discusses genetic structure, DNA repair systems and mutagenesis, and the theoretical significance of recent discoveries.