Instructor: Henry A. Lester, Caltech extension 4946 Lester@Caltech.edu
Home phone, 626-799-2486. Office 328 Kerckhoff.
My assistant is Shannan Boss, Caltech ext. 6872.
Goals
1. This course attempts to communicate a molecular and mechanistic approach to the molecules that render biological membranes chemically and electrically excitable. We treat ion channels, receptors, intracellular and extracellular messengers, and transporters. Electrical and biophysical approaches are strongly emphasized.
2. This course will also provide practice and guidance to students who are making the transition to professional scientist. We will work together, in a friendly and non-confrontational fashion, toward the highest standards of professional communication.
Required coursework
These ground rules are designed to enhance HAL's enjoyment in teaching the course.
1. Each student will do either all or half of an oral presentation--the most common means that professional scientists use to communicate. We are very serious about the quality of these presentations. They will have just a few clear graphics; the graphics will be readable from the back of the room. The language will be clear, definite, and loud. Some of the best scientific speakers I have heard are not native speakers of English.
2. Each student will also produce a review paper--the most important means that professional scientists use to communicate. We are very serious about the quality of exposition in these papers. The paper will have ~ 2,500 words plus references. Papers are due 5 PM Monday December 6. The topic could be that of your presentation or some other topic. Some of the best scientific writers I know learned English as adults.
3. You must have an Email address and read your Email at least twice a week.
4. Passing the course also depends on active participation in class. Passivity is fine at other institutions-not at Caltech.
5. Full participation is required--no auditors are allowed
Textbook
Like most graduate reading courses, this course makes use of photocopied
papers from the original literature. However, we are fortunate to have
a timely, authoritative text:
B. Hille, Ionic Channels of Excitable Membranes, 2nd Edition, Sinauer,
1991
Communications Area
Readings and papers will be distributed on the file cabinet outside Room 328 Kerckhoff.