MCB195M
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MCB195M - Foundations of Terrestrial, Synthetic and Alien Multicellular Life
Course ID
042509
Course Description
The emergence of multicellular (MC) life represents one of the major evolutionary transitions. In this course we will explore how MC life came about on earth, how the field of synthetic biology aims to engineer MC systems de-novo, and how we might be able to detect alien MC life in the universe. We will discuss questions like: What are the limits of size and complexity of single celled organisms? What are the requirements for cells to function as MC organisms? What is the engineering toolbox required for synthetic MC life? What are the ethics of creating MC life? Is MC a requirement for intelligent extraterrestrial life? Will aliens get cancer? The course will focus on reading and discussing primary research literature and interpreting experimental data. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the scientific method, the biological aspects of MC, and the interdisciplinary nature of science and engineering.
Min Units
1
Max Units
1
Repeatable for Credit
No
Grading Basis
SPF - Alternative Grading S, P, F
Career
Undergraduate
Course Attributes
FRCQ - FC (Freshman Colloquia)
Enrollment Requirements
015116
Course Requisites
May be convened with
Component
Colloquium
Optional Component
No