This two-credit course was last offered in Spring 2003 and consisted of weekly lectures as well as small-group discussions following each lecture. The credit requirements included active participation in the journal club as well as presentation of a written research proposal at the end of the course. Six out of seven registered students were surveyed and their comments have been compiled below.

Comments:

Virology is a course “to treat yourself to when you have the time to really put in the effort to get the most out of it.” The journal club discussions with the guest lecturers (a “star-studded cast of virologists”) were both “stimulating” and “enjoyable,” though many felt that the assigned reading was often “excessive”, so this class certainly took “a lot of time.” Students enjoyed the “diversity” and “breadth” of the discussion topics that covered “all major topics in virology” from virus structure and evolution to host responses and advances in antiviral therapies. The written research proposal was “an excellent exercise” especially since the class was given “a lot of freedom” in choosing a topic.

Ratings given out of 10 with 10 being the highest rating.

Virology will be again offered in Spring 2005 with a few minor changes in format. There will be group discussions regarding students’ research proposals and these will be very much tailored like an “NIH study section.” Students will begin by choosing a topic and formulating some specific aims, followed by their presentation to the entire group for discussion and input. Once proposals are written, students will be assigned as primary and secondary reviewers, and then proposals will be scored in “mock study section meetings.”

Thanks to the course organizers, Drs. Charlie Rice and Paul Bienasz, for information regarding the course.