Disease Biology - 2026

The aim of this course is to provide a bird’s eye view of infectious disease primarily in humans.  The complexity and diversity of different classes of infectious agents and  the mechanisms they use for survival and host evasion will be explored using some key examples. As we explore each topic throughout this course, we will also examine strategies for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Please contact all instructors before the first two classes complete for any specific access or learning needs.

Prerequisites: For undergraduate students, completion of core biology courses is required for enrollment. A foundational understanding of cell and molecular biology, as well as immunology, is recommended. Students are encouraged to reach out to instructors for additional readings to enhance their knowledge and address any gaps in understanding. 

• Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity and complexity of infectious agents:
  • Identify key examples of different classes of infectious agents.
  • Analyze the mechanisms employed by infectious agents for survival and host evasion.
• Apply knowledge of disease mechanisms to understand current prevention and treatment strategies:
  • Understanding what disease is and distinguishing healthy from diseased.
  • Strategies for disease prevention and treatment across different disease types.
  • Formulate connections between the understanding of disease mechanisms and the development of targeted interventions.
• Integrate interdisciplinary perspectives on human disease: Synthesize information from various disciplines, including microbiology, molecular biology, and immunology.
• Engage in critical thinking and problem-solving using case studies or scientific literature to comprehend and critique current research in the field of human disease. Synthesize information from various disciplines, including microbiology, pathology, and genetics.

Requirements (Reading List and other materials)

• Textbook: Microbiology - The Human Experience by Foster, Aliabadi, and Slonczewski
• Students will be directed to sections / chapters from other texts as needed. Additional media, powerpoint slides used in class and /or readings will be provided by instructors as needed.