Start Date: August 29th
Required Text
- Alberts, et al., Molecular Biology of the Cell, 5th Edition
- Ross, et al., Histology. A Text and Atlas, 6th Edition
- Nelson and Cox, Lehninger, Principles of Biochemistry, 5th Edition
- Champe and Harvey, Biochemistry, Lippencotts Illustrated Reviews, 5th Edition
- Jorde, Medical Genetics, 4th Edition
The Microscopic Anatomy Laboratory Manual, is also required for the histology laboratories in both Molecules, Genes and Cells and Human Structure Function courses. Laboratory manuals are provided free of charge and will be distributed in September.
Course Description
Welcome to New York City, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, and Molecules, Genes and Cells. As introduced to you during orientation, the medical curriculum utilizes new learning experiences designed to maximize student participation. Learning modalities include problem-based learning (PBL), lectures, small group discussions and journal clubs. Your Molecules, Genes and Cells course begins on Monday, August 29th at 8:00 A.M. We will start with an 8:00 A.M. orientation to the course. At 9 A.M., Dr. Fred Maxfield, Chairman of the Department of Biochemistry, will deliver the opening lecture on the Molecular and Cellular Basis of Disease, followed later in the week by an introduction to the Problem-Based Learning experience by Dr. Peter Marzuk and myself. The remainder of the course schedule for the next 16 weeks together with your PBL, small group and laboratory room assignments are contained in this handout. A complete syllabus, including lecture transcripts and small group materials for the first week of the course is also included. Course materials for ensuing weeks will be handed out in advance of the week.
Course Format
Course materials will be presented in PBL’s, lectures, small group discussions, laboratory sessions, and reading assignments. Lectures are held either in Room A-250 or Weill Auditorium. Refer to your schedule for lecture hall assignment. PBL sessions, journal clubs, laboratories and small group discussions are held in the Weill Education Center small group rooms. Weekly reading assignments, lecture outlines and required reference materials will be provided to you prior to use in the course. Tutors will bring case materials to the PBL sessions. Two or three students in each PBL group should bring a copy of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Cell texts to the PBL sessions.
It is incumbent on you to look up and read in advance relevant textbook assignments, lecture handouts, small-group problem sets, and journal club articles before coming to class.
Grading Policy
You will be responsible for material presented in PBL’s, lectures, small group sessions, journal clubs and laboratories, as well as the assigned readings. A single grade of Pass or Fail will be recorded for the entire course.
Attendance Policy
Attendance is mandatory to all classes, PBL, journal clubs, small-group sessions and laboratories.
On behalf of the Molecules, Genes and Cells Course Directors, we look forward to our mutual adventure in studying and understanding the science of medicine.
