BIOLOGY 512S · also CMB 512S
Weird Model Organisms in Today's Evolutionary Cell Biology
Masayuki Onishi
Description from DukeHub
How and why are new organisms being developed as emerging models in cell biology? Through lectures and reading primary literature, we'll learn how traditional model organisms (E. coli, yeast, fruit flies, mice, etc.) were originally developed and how 'weird' organisms from across the Tree of Life are used to address questions ranging from human health to climate change. Guest speakers, early-stage biologists from various fields (e.g., academia, industry, government agency) and backgrounds, will share with us how their choice of model organisms impacted their research and career. Develop skills in critical reading, scientific presentation, discussion, and developing research proposals. Recommended prerequisite: Biology 201L, 202L and one additional Biology course, or graduate student standing.
Skills
- public speakingAI review: "scientific presentation"
- writingAI review: "developing research proposals"
- research methodsAI review: "developing research proposals"
AI-resilient: 1 of 5
- No: Physical, lab or field work
- No: Live work with people
- No: Judgment someone is accountable for
- No: A craft you practice with your hands or body
- Yes: Small, in-person format · seminar, 15 seats per section
The checks lean on Microsoft Research, Working with AI (2025), which found generative AI applies least to physical work and hands-on work with people. A signal, not a promise. How the score works
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