About the class
The cell is a fundamental unit of biology. In higher organisms, almost all cells have exactly the same genome, yet there are a wide variety of cell types and function in a single organism. A cursory glance at our own body reveals the incredible range and splendor of this cellular diversity. How to cells take on such different forms and function in a developing organism? And how do cells communicate with each other? These questions are largely unanswered, but we have come a long way in the last several decades. This class will explore the physical principles behind morphogenesis in development by investigating current and classic literature on the subject. The class will feature plenty of in-class discussion and student presentations. We will also attempt some calculations of our own on morphogenic processes in homework assignments.
News
05/20/2014: Office hours on Wednesday, May 27 will be in 231 SFL, not in Broad.05/19/2014: Due to Ditch Day, the due date of homework 3 is extended until Friday, May 23. It is due by 5pm, either in my mailbox in Broad in Anandh's mailbox on the third floor of Annenberg.
04/24/2014: Office hours for Friday, April 25 are canceled. We will have make-up office hours Sunday April 28, at 9pm in 229 SFL.
04/24/2014: There has been a change to the ordering of papers for the course. Please see the syllabus for details.
04/08/2014: On Tuesday, April 15, class will be held at the usual time, but in the Media Lab in SFL.
03/23/2014: The first class meets on Tuesday, April 1, at 2:30pm in 200 Broad. And that is not an April Fools joke!