Biology

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

The students at the end of the course will be able:
A) Knowledge and understanding
To know the most common chemical elements, their properties and the way they behave in simple chemical reactions, being able to solve exercises on stoichiometric calculations and equilibrium reactions in solution;
To know the principal classes of substances (acids, bases and salts) and their behaviour in aqueous solutions by applying fundamental thermodynamic properties;
To understand qualitative and quantitative aspects of chemical transformations, as described in lessons and tutorials;
To use reference basic chemistry manuals and handbooks to understand more advanced courses.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
To apply the basic chemical knowledge to correlate the macroscopic properties and the elemental structure of matter at the level of chemical elements and simple molecules.

C) Making judgements
To critical think through the historical survey of the main discoveries in chemistry
To learn by questioning.

D) Communication skills
To communicate the acquired theoretical and the experimental knowledge.

E) Learning skills
To learn the specific terminology;
To make the logical connections between the topics covered;
To identify the most relevant topics.

Educational objectives

General skills
This course is designed to explore the fundamentals of cell biology and tissue structure. The main goal is for learners to understand how molecular and cellular components are organized, how cells work, what are the structure and functions of differentiated cells in human tissues. High school basics in chemistry and biochemistry are assumed knowledge for the course. General and Inorganic Chemistry contents (taught in the same semester) are advantageous. The course includes classroom lectures and learning laboratory sessions. During lab sessions, students learn how the histological techniques work, how the images observed with the traditional light microscope can be interpreted for recognizing structural features of the main tissues and how to use the Virtual microscope, a learning resource freely accessible over the Web, for reviewing histological material.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-knowing and understanding the chemical composition and the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
-knowing and understanding cellular activities through the functions of the specialized cellular components and organelles
-knowing and understanding structural and functional properties of differentiated cells of human tissues
-knowing and understanding how study methods work in cytology and histology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use the specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Cell Biology
- be able of identifying cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The teaching covers plant cytology, histology, anatomy, reproduction and systematics. The main objective of the teaching is to allow the students to acquire the fundamental knowledge about the structure and functions of plant cells, tissues and organs. Knowledge and understanding of classification methods. Concept of species, taxonomic ranks and nomenclature. Characters with taxonomic value of plant organisms (Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi). The teaching requires basic knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry acquired in high school, which is considered ascertained by passing the entrance test. The initial contents of the knowledge on the properties of atoms and molecules acquired during the teaching of General and Inorganic Chemistry (taught in the same semester). The teaching includes lectures and laboratory experiences, dedicated to learning basic histological techniques and the use of the optical microscope for observation of cells and tissues.

Specific objectives

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the structural peculiarities of the plant cell, prokaryotic and eukaryotic, with reference to Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi
-Knowledge and understanding of the various levels of plant organization: cellular, tissue, organ and organism -
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods to study plant cytology, histology and organography
- Knowledge and understanding of the classification of flowering plants with a phylogenetic approach

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use a specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Plant Biology
- be able to identify plant cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.
-be able to identify and recognize the main morphological characters and use tools (dichotomous analytical keys) for the recognition of plants
C) Making judgements
- acquire the ability to recognize the interrelations between structure and function at different levels of organization, from the subcellular to the organ level
- learning by questioning
D) Communication skills
- be able to communicate what has been learned during the lectures, the laboratory experiences and during the study
E) Learning skills
- learn the specific terminology of the matter
- logically connect the acquired knowledge
- identify the most relevant topics of the matter

Educational objectives

General skills
The Physics course deals with basic principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism. The main aim of the course is to enable students to acquire knowledge of fundamental physical phenomena and - in particular - to describe them through physical laws and mathematical models. At the end of the course, a student should have acquired the ability to formalize a simple problem through the identification of the physical laws that characterize it, and to quantitatively compute the corresponding solution. The final objective is the acquisition of a rigorous scientific method that can be applied to any scientific topic the students will study in the future, going beyond simple problems in classical physics.

The course requires basic knowledge of analytical and numerical calculation and is delivered through classroom lectures, dedicated to the presentation of physical phenomena and the laws that describe them, and through exercise sessions aimed at consolidating the understanding of physical phenomena and their application to specific problems.
In addition, the course foresees a series of self-evaluation activities (quiz on the web-based platform elearning) and two intermediate written tests (the first one at the mid of the course and the second one at the end).
Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of classical mechanics, in particular the three Newton's laws and the laws of energy and momentum conservation;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics, with examples of applications in biology;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of electricity and magnetism, with examples of applications in biology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- can apply their knowledge to describe a physical phenomenon, first in a qualitative way and then in a quantitative way, discriminating the dominant effects from the secondary ones;
- have the ability to represent in a rigorous way a physical phenomenon through the identification of the physical laws that describe it;
- have the ability to identify the best method to find the solution of simple physical problems.

C) Making judgements
- have the ability to apply their knowledge and make their judgements through devising the solution to physical problems.

D) Communication skills
- can communicate their knowledge using a proper and rigorous scientific language.

E) Learning skills
- have learnt the specific terminology;
- have acquired the ability the logical connections between different topics presented in the course.

Educational objectives

General skills
The course provides students with a basic knowledge of Genetics aimed at understanding the rules of inheritance, their molecular bases, their main applications and their implications for evolution. In addition, the course will allow students to understand how genetic information is encoded at the DNA level and how the biochemical processes of the cell translate genetic information into a phenotype. The course aims to achieve these objectives through an analysis of the experimental evidences and their interpretation.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of the genetic material
-Knowledge and understanding of the rules of genetic transmission
-Knowledge and understanding of mutations and their implications
-Basic knowledge on the dynamics of genes in populations as well as on the genetic mechanisms underlying evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding

- usage of a proper genetic terminology
- identification of the right procedures to solve genetic problems
- formulation of hypotheses on the hereditary transmission of characters
- constructing and interpreting genetic maps and genealogical trees
- acquisition of conceptual tools for the genetic dissection of biological systems
- utilizing basic biostatistical methodologies for data analysis and hypothesis testing

C) Making judgements
- Acquisition of a critical judgment capacity on solving problems of formal genetics, through the study of the evolution of the gene concept from Mendel to the present day and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments.
- Addressing questions for the elaboration and deepening of the gained information

D) Communication skills
- communicating the genetic concepts acquired during the course with appropriate terminology

E) Learning skills
- logically connecting the acquired knowledge
- identification of the most relevant topics of the issues discussed during the course

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The second part of the course (MMIB) is devoted to teach how to perform a statistical analysis of empirical data, also exploiting an appropriate software.
It is assumed that students entering the course know the basics of elementary mathematics from the high school. The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems. The second part of the course (MMIB) include as well some exercise sessions in the computer lab, where students apply their knowledge to the statistical analysis of biological data.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
• Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
• Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
• Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
• Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
• Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
• Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
• Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
• Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
• Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
• Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
• Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
• Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
• Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
• Ability to self-questioning.
• Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
• Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
• Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

Educational objectives

General objectives
At the end of the course the student will have acquired a descriptive knowledge of the body plans, of the adaptive and evolutionary biology of the main animal Phyla. The student will also be able to identify the main zoological groups at the class level.

- Specific objectives

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the morpho-functional knowledge of the body plans of the animal phyla, essential to the interpretation of the adaptations and the evolutionary history of the Metazoa.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the diagnostic skills for the identification of animal groups and the critical skills for the selection of appropriate animal models for experimental biology.

Critical and judgmental capacities:
During the laboratory practices, the student will develop critical and judgmental skills by coping with museum and in vivo samples of the main animal phyla, through macroscopic and microscopic observation of morphologies and behaviors and drawings of anatomical parts.

Ability to communicate what has been learned:
Students, especially during the laboratory practices, are encouraged to interact with each other and with the teachers to implement practical activities (observation, identification, analysis and critical comment of the samples).

Ability to continue the study independently in the life:
The student will acquire the language of Zoology, in terms of both taxonomic nomenclature and descriptive nomenclature of morphologies and functional and evolutionary processes of animals. These skills will make the student able to face future biological studies, including experimental activities where animals are the model of study.

Educational objectives

General skills
To get a good knowledge of nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and reactivity of the main classes of organic compounds. The above knowledge ought to allow the student to program chemical reactions necessary for his work. In addition the knowledge of the organic chemistry ought to allow a better understanding of the biochemical reactions also of those involved in secondary metabolites biogenesis.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties of organic molecules.
- Knowledge of stereochemistry and understanding of the consequences related to molecular chirality in organic and organic chemistry.
- Knowledge of the reactivity of the different functional groups
- Basic knowledge of biomolecules, such as carbohydrates, amino acids and lipids

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- use of the nomenclature of organic compounds
- ability to apply the acquired knowledge to problems of organic chemistry

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General objectives

The main objective is to allow the student to acquire knowledge of the structure and functioning of natural and anthropized
ecosystems, the interactions between species and between these and the physico-chemical environment. The student will be
able to understand: (1) the role of environmental factors in the numerical variations of populations and (2) the importance of
species interactions in the ecosystem development processes (ecological succession) and associated variations in energy
flows allocated to growth and maintenance. She/He will understand the role of man in the acceleration of environmental
changes. The student will be guided through examples of real case studies that will be objects of discussion in the classroom
to contribute to the development of skills in basic ecology.

Specific objectives -

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will know theories, mechanisms and models of ecological processes at different
scales of biological organization, from populations to ecosystems. She/He will understand the role of environmental factors
in the numerical variations of populations and the importance of interactions between species in ecosystem development
processes. She/He will understand the meaning of sustainability of the dynamics of natural populations including human
populations.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
At the end of the course the student will master the theories of ecology and
the experiences that led to their formulation. The student will know how to define the different aspects of the same ecological
problem. She/He will be able to apply graphic models to interactions between species and to ecological successions.

Making judgments:
The student will be able to interpret and compare literature data on the same topic. She/He will know
how to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the acquired knowledge. These goals will be achieved through a
strong interactivity between the teacher and the student and between students on the topics covered.

Communication skills:
During the lessons, the student will be stimulated to interact with the teacher and the class and to
communicate what she/he has learned through the discussion of fundamental topics of ecology. Communication skills will be
evaluated during the oral exam.

Learning skills:
The student will know the basic principles of ecology and the most important contributions from other
disciplines of biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics to ecological theories, using an evolutionary key and learning the
appropriate terminology. This will allow the student during her/his career not to limit to the observation and description of
natural phenomena as separate events but to logically link the acquired knowledge by identifying the underlying mechanisms
and the cause / effect relationship.

Educational objectives

General skills.

At the end of the course and after passing the exam, the student will have acquired the knowledge and skills in the areas below. In general, the student will be able to: describe the structure and function of the main classes of biological macromolecules; explain the main metabolic pathways in terms of chemical reactions, recognizing and reproducing the structures of the metabolites; explain the principles and applications of the most common biochemical methodologies. On the basis of the acquired knowledge, the student will have the ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view, describing the molecular bases of life in terms of structures and chemical reactions. Students' critical and judgmental skills will be developed through excercise classes, in which videos will be projected and numerical exercises carried out, and through laboratory experiences. In the latter, students will apply the theoretical concepts studied in class, performing and interpreting experiments that, in the future, they will be able to independently reproduce. Communication skills will also be exercised during the theoretical lessons, which include moments of open discussion. In the future, the student will be able to count on the knowledge and skills just described for the understanding of other disciplines and for the work in analysis and research laboratories.

Specific skills.

a) knowledge and ability to understand
- Knowledge and understanding of the relationship between structure and function of the main classes of macromolecules and biological molecules;
- understanding of metabolism chemical logic;
- knowledge of the main metabolic pathways and of their single reactions;
- understanding of the principles and phenomena underlying the main biochemical methodologies;

b) ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view;
- ability to apply appropriate techniques to specific experimental problems;

c) autonomy of judgment
- be able to solve biochemical problems, also through a quantitative approach;
- be able to identify biological and biomedical phenomena that can be explained from a biochemical point of view;
- be able to select and evaluate the most appropriate techniques to solve a specific experimental problem;

d) communication skills
- be able to illustrate and explain biochemical phenomena with appropriate terms and with logical rigor;
- be able to draw the structure of the main metabolites and of biomolecules in general;
- be able to describe how the main biochemical techniques work;

e) learning ability
- acquisition of the fundamentals and cognitive tools to continue independently in the study of biochemistry;
- acquisition of the basic knowledge necessary to progress autonomously in other biological disciplines;
- ability to learn quickly and apply biochemical techniques in laboratory working environments;

Educational objectives

General skills The course regards the Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates. The main objective is to introduce the students to the "organism" level of Biological organization taking as a model the taxon of Vertebrates. The students will be introduced to the systematics and evolutionary history of Vertebrates and will deepen the Comparative Anatomy of some organic systems. The course requires basic knowledge of Cellular Biology, Histology and Embryology. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions. The latter are dedicated to the macroscopic examination and the dissection of Vertebrates (cartilaginous fish, bony fish, bird), to the observation, with adaptive and evolutionary interpretation, of the skull. At the end of the course there will be a visit to the Museum of Comparative Anatomy (Sapienza University) to complete the knowledge acquired during the course.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge and understanding of the systematics and evolution of Vertebrates, at the level of Order.
- Knowledge and understanding of the structure, function and evolution of some organic systems in the various classes of vertebrates with particular reference to their evolution in the transition from the aquatic environment to that of land and air: integumentary system; skeletal system; digestive system; respiratory System; circulatory system; nervous system (outline); sensory organs.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- knowing how to use specific terminology.
- knowing how to interpret a phylogenetic tree.
- be able to recognize, by observing the external morphology, the members of the main orders of vertebrates.
- to be able to interpret, in a functional and evolutionary key, the morphology of the structures related to the systems included in the program.

C) Making judgements
Through the lectures and the practical exercises the student will learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned. In particular, he will be able to know if he correctly identified a vertebrate at the order level on the basis of external morphology. Furthermore, it will be able to evaluate whether the study of a specific anatomical structure can be considered complete (i.e., if its Form, Function and Evolution have been thoroughly studied).

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

The course deals with the genetic material, the flow of genetic information and the mechanisms that control maintenance, variability and regulation of this flow. Main objective of the course is to provide the students a basic knowledge on biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, Proteins) their recognition and interaction, on the processes of transmission, conservation and expression of the genetic material and of their regulation. Prerequisite of the course is therefore a basic knowledge of genetics, chemistry , biochemistry, cell biology and thermodynamics.

A) Knowledge acquired
Students will be able to discuss problems on the macromolecules involved in the storage and frlow of genetic information, on the mechanisms that ensure its transmission and maintenance, and on the regulation of its flow. In addition, they will be updated on the main techniques and approaches of molecular biology and recombinant DNA.

B) General skills
Students will be able to pursue a research career in basic or applied biology and biomedicine in Italy and abroad; to exploit their molecular biology knowledge to critically analyse the impact of biotechnologies, gene therapy, gene editing on society and the environment; to pursue a (biology) teaching career.

C) Making judgments
Students will be able to collect and interpret scientific data related to the basic experiments of molecular biology;

D) Communication skills
Students will be able to communicate information, ideas, and solutions to both specialists and non-interlocutors.

E) Learning skills
Students will be able to develop the necessary skills to continue with molecular studies with an excellent degree of autonomy

Educational objectives

General skills
The course is focused on the study of embryology and the mechanisms that control the different phases of embryogenesis and cell differentiation and on the gametogenesis and fertilization processes. The main aims of the course is to acquire the basic knowledge of the various phases of embryogenesis with a comparative view on different animal models (invertebrates and vertebrates) and of the main mechanisms that control cell fate and specification/differentiation, the maturation of gametes and the mechanisms of fertilization. The course requires established knowledge of cell biology and the basic mechanisms of molecular biology. The course includes lessons and laboratory sessions, dedicated to the observation and recognition of embryos of different animal models and the observation of histological sections of embryos at various developmental stages. The student should have basic knowledge of the microscope and the main histological techniques. The course includes at the end 2-3 bio-applicative seminars with the aim to discuss topics such as animal cloning, the use of adult stem cells and iPS in regenerative medicine, assisted fertilization

Specific skills

Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of the stages of embryogenesis and of the main events characterizing the cell fate and differentiation
-Knowledge and understanding of the various stages of embryo development with a comparative vision
-Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms that control the cell fate
- Knowledge and understanding of the germ line formation and the gametes maturation.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
-know how to use the appropriate terminology
- recognize the various phases of embryogenesis
- recognize the various embryos and the main tissues and organs in development both in whole embryos and in histological sections

C)Autonomy of judgment
- acquiring critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the developmental biology knowledge and of the evolution of the different methodologies used starting from experimental embryology to the recent molecular biology
- evaluation of the knowledge learned through self-assessment tests and through an exception test

D) Communication skills
-Describe what has been learned through the oral test using scientific language properties and knowing how to integrate, discuss and analyze in a critical way what has been learned

E) Learning skills
- learn the appropriate terminology
- connect and integrate the acquired knowledge in a logical way
- identify the most relevant topics and their potential applicability to current problems.

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Organization of viral genomes and multiplication strategies of viruses
- Virus-host cell interactions and genetic mechanisms of virus evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from viruses and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
General Physiology is aimed at providing in-depth knowledge on the molecular and cellular principles that regulate the normal functions of organs and systems that characterize a complex living organism. The course includes an initial part that explores more closely themes of cellular physiology, and then addresses the study of the functions of individual organs and mechanisms of mutual interaction between them, on the basis of the homeostatic balance on which functions a living organism. The study of Physiology is fundamental for the professional training of students of the Faculty of Science and since it is a very wide discipline, its study requires the knowledge of Cell Biology, Histology, Physics, Chemistry, and Biochemistry, acquired in the first two years of the undergraduate training in Biological Sciences. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions focused on the study of basic physiological principles. During the course the use of simple methods of investigation of physiological parameters is also learned.

Specific skill
A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of plasma membrane function in the maintenance of homeostasis of eukaryotic cells, with references to its structure
- Knowledge and understanding of the functions of cell types that characterize the different tissues
- Knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, structural and functional organization of the individual organs
- Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of communication between cells, organs and systems, and of the integration of the functions of the different organs, with specific regard to mechanisms of regulation of functional homeostasis
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods of study in physiology

B) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of specific terminology
- Knowing how to identify the right procedures to solve Physiology questions
- Know how to recognize, in the functioning of the systems and physiological systems, the general chemical and biophysical laws that regulate the lifeless world

C) Making judgments
- Acquire critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the progress of Physiological knowledge and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments
- Learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
- Know how to communicate what has been learned during the oral examination

E) Learning ability
- learn the specific terminology
- ability to make logical connections between the topic covered
- ability to Identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The course aims to provide knowledge on the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that allow plants to live in
different environments. The course starts from the study of water and nutrient transports to reach important topics
such as photosynthesis, photoreceptors and plant hormones. The student will acquire knowledge on the interaction
between light, water and carbon dioxide. They will learn the biochemical mechanisms of photosynthesis in both light
reactions and Calvin cycle. He will be able to distinguish between the various photosynthetic metabolisms (C3, C4,
CAM) and to understand the molecular and physiological basis of the symbiotic interactions between plants and
mycorrhizal fungi or nitrogen fixing bacteria. The initial contents of the course are linked to those of the courses of
Cellular Biology, General and Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular and Botany Biology
and Plant Diversity. The course includes theoretical and methodological lectures, dedicated to techniques and
innovative approaches related to plant physiology and biotechnology.

Expected learning outcomes.

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the main physiological processes of the plant
-Knowledge of the mechanisms by which the plant is able to transform light energy into chemical energy;
-Knowledge of the mechanisms that allow the plant to recover mineral nutrients from the environment;
-Understanding the main plant metabolic pathways.
-Understanding the processes that plant exploits to react to environmental changes using hormones and
photoreceptors.
-Knowledge of basic techniques for the study of plant physiology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
The student will acquire the skills of:
-Use the correct scientific terminology;
-Predict the mechanisms by which the plant reacts to changes in environmental conditions;
-Use the simplest techniques at the base of plant biotechnologies by planning simple experimental protocols

C) Making judgements
-The student will acquire autonomy of judgment in the recognition of the molecular mechanism at the base of plant
physiology, for the adequacy of the various analytical techniques, for the interpretation of protocols of genetic
transformation and for the interpretation of experimental laboratory data.
-The student will learn to ask the right questions to himself for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge
learned.

D) Communication skills
The student will be stimulated to expose the concepts exposed in the classroom so that he can be able to correctly
communicate the knowledge learned.

E) Learning skills
The student will acquire a study method that allows the understanding of specific topics related to plant physiology.
He will acquire the ability to understand the specific terminology, logically connect the acquired knowledge obtaining
mastery of the relevant themes of plant physiology.

Educational objectives

General skills
The general purpose of the course is to learn the principles and aims of clinical biochemistry.
The most frequently used analytical techniques in biochemical analysis laboratories are
described. The main objectives are the learning of the principles and purposes of
biochemistry laboratory, the development of the critical interpretation skills of the results of
laboratory tests and the critical evaluation of the various analytical procedures. The program
includes the presentation of some of the main methods of clinical laboratory investigation and
their application in the diagnosis of diseases. The course requires basic knowledge of

chemistry and biochemistry acquired in the courses of the first years of the three-year degree
in Biological Sciences.
Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowing and understanding the principles of biochemistry techniques: Centrifugation,
Chromatography, Electrophoresis, Spectroscophy
- Immunological techniques and their diagnostic applications
- Determinations of enzymatic activities
- Diagnosis of some pathologies
B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Be able to use the specific terminology
- Knowing how to identify the right procedures to solve some questions of Clinical
Biochemistry
C) Making judgements
- Acquire analytical skills, also through the study of the progress of knowledge in Clinical
Biochemistry
- Ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned
D) Communication skills
- Be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam
E) Learning skills
- Learning the specific terminology
- Be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered

Educational objectives

General skills
The aim of this course is to guide the student in understanding the mechanisms by which the immune system protects the individual from the aggression of potentially harmful microbes with whom he comes into contact during his life. The student will receive the conceptual bases to know the cells, tissues and molecules of the immune system and the mechanisms responsible for the activation and maturation of immune responses following the encounter of immune cell receptors with the molecular components of the microbes. Moreover, the mechanisms of innate and adaptive immune responses in the various districts and tissues of the organism and in response to the different pathogens will be investigated. The course includes lectures and classroom teaching sessions, with a description of the experimental techniques used today for the analysis of the functioning of the immune system and learning assessment activities through written exam simulation tests.

Specific skills
1.Knowledge and understanding skills
- Knowledge and understanding of the functioning of the molecules and cell types of the innate and adaptive immune system
- Knowledge of the mechanisms of cooperation and integration of innate and adaptive immune responses and theirs
- Knowledge and understanding of innate and adaptive immune responses in the different districts and tissues of the organism and in response to the different pathogens
- Knowledge and understanding of the experimental techniques used today for the analysis of the functioning of the immune system

2. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
Be able to use the specific terminology of the discipline
Be able to identify the right procedures to solve the questions of Immunology
Apply the knowledge of the specific topics covered in class and the techniques used in immunology

3. Making judgmental
The student will learn to discuss and critically evaluate the progress achieved in the immunological field and to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned

4. Ability to communicate what has been learned
The student will be able to communicate what has been learned during the written exam

5. Ability to continue the study independently in the course of life
The student will acquire not only basic knowledge, but also the methodologies and terminology specific to the field of Immunology. This knowledge will allow the student to continue his / her study independently, even after the end of the course and passing the exam.

Educational objectives

Main objectives:
The course aims to study sectorial English language of Biological Sciences, through the reading and
listening of text/audio in their original language, alongside the study of the main morphosyntactic
structures of English language in order to improve oral and written comprehension skills. It is
required a B1 English Level according to the Common European Framework for foreign languages.
At the end of the course students should be able to use major English grammatical structures, have a
competent knowledge of English language and vocabulary used in specific scientific contexts, read
and listen specific scientific materials and be able to analyse them in detail.
Specific objectives:
A. Knowledge and understanding
- Sectorial English language of Biological Sciences knowledge
- Ability to understand specific terms and expression and English grammar within texts.
- Oral and written comprehension skills
B. Applying knowledge and understanding
- Ability to use the main morphosyntactic structures of English language and specific
vocabulary.
C. Making judgements
- Acquire the ability to express an opinion about the issues addressed during lessons through
the use of the main major English grammatical structures and specific vocabulary.
D. Communication skills
- Oral and written communication skills
-
E. Learning skills
- Learn the specific scientific vocabulary
- Identify the most relevant topics addressed during lessons.

Educational objectives

The final work is aimed at verifying communication skills and the ability in oral dissertation. Before a commitee the student will expose the result of an experimental or methodological activity , or a bibliographical research, under the supervision of a tutor.

Knoledge and Comprehension skills

The student acquires knowledge of a wide range of methodological procedures and instruments used in the biological research field

Authonomy in judgement

The studed acquires the following skills:

- Evaluation and data interpetation as a result of lab research or of experimental work
- Lab security matters

Communication skills

Written and oral communication both in italian and English language
Data processing and presentation
Dissemination and trasnmission of biological themes of actual interest

Ability to learn

Study of bibliographic and reference material
Study of specific Data banks or databases
Basic instruments for updating konwledge and lifelong learning paths

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

The students at the end of the course will be able:
A) Knowledge and understanding
To know the most common chemical elements, their properties and the way they behave in simple chemical reactions, being able to solve exercises on stoichiometric calculations and equilibrium reactions in solution;
To know the principal classes of substances (acids, bases and salts) and their behaviour in aqueous solutions by applying fundamental thermodynamic properties;
To understand qualitative and quantitative aspects of chemical transformations, as described in lessons and tutorials;
To use reference basic chemistry manuals and handbooks to understand more advanced courses.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
To apply the basic chemical knowledge to correlate the macroscopic properties and the elemental structure of matter at the level of chemical elements and simple molecules.

C) Making judgements
To critical think through the historical survey of the main discoveries in chemistry
To learn by questioning.

D) Communication skills
To communicate the acquired theoretical and the experimental knowledge.

E) Learning skills
To learn the specific terminology;
To make the logical connections between the topics covered;
To identify the most relevant topics.

Educational objectives

General skills
This course is designed to explore the fundamentals of cell biology and tissue structure. The main goal is for learners to understand how molecular and cellular components are organized, how cells work, what are the structure and functions of differentiated cells in human tissues. High school basics in chemistry and biochemistry are assumed knowledge for the course. General and Inorganic Chemistry contents (taught in the same semester) are advantageous. The course includes classroom lectures and learning laboratory sessions. During lab sessions, students learn how the histological techniques work, how the images observed with the traditional light microscope can be interpreted for recognizing structural features of the main tissues and how to use the Virtual microscope, a learning resource freely accessible over the Web, for reviewing histological material.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-knowing and understanding the chemical composition and the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
-knowing and understanding cellular activities through the functions of the specialized cellular components and organelles
-knowing and understanding structural and functional properties of differentiated cells of human tissues
-knowing and understanding how study methods work in cytology and histology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use the specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Cell Biology
- be able of identifying cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The teaching covers plant cytology, histology, anatomy, reproduction and systematics. The main objective of the teaching is to allow the students to acquire the fundamental knowledge about the structure and functions of plant cells, tissues and organs. Knowledge and understanding of classification methods. Concept of species, taxonomic ranks and nomenclature. Characters with taxonomic value of plant organisms (Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi). The teaching requires basic knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry acquired in high school, which is considered ascertained by passing the entrance test. The initial contents of the knowledge on the properties of atoms and molecules acquired during the teaching of General and Inorganic Chemistry (taught in the same semester). The teaching includes lectures and laboratory experiences, dedicated to learning basic histological techniques and the use of the optical microscope for observation of cells and tissues.

Specific objectives

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the structural peculiarities of the plant cell, prokaryotic and eukaryotic, with reference to Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi
-Knowledge and understanding of the various levels of plant organization: cellular, tissue, organ and organism -
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods to study plant cytology, histology and organography
- Knowledge and understanding of the classification of flowering plants with a phylogenetic approach

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use a specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Plant Biology
- be able to identify plant cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.
-be able to identify and recognize the main morphological characters and use tools (dichotomous analytical keys) for the recognition of plants
C) Making judgements
- acquire the ability to recognize the interrelations between structure and function at different levels of organization, from the subcellular to the organ level
- learning by questioning
D) Communication skills
- be able to communicate what has been learned during the lectures, the laboratory experiences and during the study
E) Learning skills
- learn the specific terminology of the matter
- logically connect the acquired knowledge
- identify the most relevant topics of the matter

Educational objectives

General skills
The Physics course deals with basic principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism. The main aim of the course is to enable students to acquire knowledge of fundamental physical phenomena and - in particular - to describe them through physical laws and mathematical models. At the end of the course, a student should have acquired the ability to formalize a simple problem through the identification of the physical laws that characterize it, and to quantitatively compute the corresponding solution. The final objective is the acquisition of a rigorous scientific method that can be applied to any scientific topic the students will study in the future, going beyond simple problems in classical physics.

The course requires basic knowledge of analytical and numerical calculation and is delivered through classroom lectures, dedicated to the presentation of physical phenomena and the laws that describe them, and through exercise sessions aimed at consolidating the understanding of physical phenomena and their application to specific problems.
In addition, the course foresees a series of self-evaluation activities (quiz on the web-based platform elearning) and two intermediate written tests (the first one at the mid of the course and the second one at the end).
Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of classical mechanics, in particular the three Newton's laws and the laws of energy and momentum conservation;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics, with examples of applications in biology;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of electricity and magnetism, with examples of applications in biology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- can apply their knowledge to describe a physical phenomenon, first in a qualitative way and then in a quantitative way, discriminating the dominant effects from the secondary ones;
- have the ability to represent in a rigorous way a physical phenomenon through the identification of the physical laws that describe it;
- have the ability to identify the best method to find the solution of simple physical problems.

C) Making judgements
- have the ability to apply their knowledge and make their judgements through devising the solution to physical problems.

D) Communication skills
- can communicate their knowledge using a proper and rigorous scientific language.

E) Learning skills
- have learnt the specific terminology;
- have acquired the ability the logical connections between different topics presented in the course.

Educational objectives

General skills
The course provides students with a basic knowledge of Genetics aimed at understanding the rules of inheritance, their molecular bases, their main applications and their implications for evolution. In addition, the course will allow students to understand how genetic information is encoded at the DNA level and how the biochemical processes of the cell translate genetic information into a phenotype. The course aims to achieve these objectives through an analysis of the experimental evidences and their interpretation.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of the genetic material
-Knowledge and understanding of the rules of genetic transmission
-Knowledge and understanding of mutations and their implications
-Basic knowledge on the dynamics of genes in populations as well as on the genetic mechanisms underlying evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding

- usage of a proper genetic terminology
- identification of the right procedures to solve genetic problems
- formulation of hypotheses on the hereditary transmission of characters
- constructing and interpreting genetic maps and genealogical trees
- acquisition of conceptual tools for the genetic dissection of biological systems
- utilizing basic biostatistical methodologies for data analysis and hypothesis testing

C) Making judgements
- Acquisition of a critical judgment capacity on solving problems of formal genetics, through the study of the evolution of the gene concept from Mendel to the present day and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments.
- Addressing questions for the elaboration and deepening of the gained information

D) Communication skills
- communicating the genetic concepts acquired during the course with appropriate terminology

E) Learning skills
- logically connecting the acquired knowledge
- identification of the most relevant topics of the issues discussed during the course

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The second part of the course (MMIB) is devoted to teach how to perform a statistical analysis of empirical data, also exploiting an appropriate software.
It is assumed that students entering the course know the basics of elementary mathematics from the high school. The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems. The second part of the course (MMIB) include as well some exercise sessions in the computer lab, where students apply their knowledge to the statistical analysis of biological data.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
• Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
• Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
• Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
• Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
• Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
• Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
• Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
• Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
• Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
• Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
• Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
• Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
• Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
• Ability to self-questioning.
• Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
• Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
• Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

Educational objectives

General objectives
At the end of the course the student will have acquired a descriptive knowledge of the body plans, of the adaptive and evolutionary biology of the main animal Phyla. The student will also be able to identify the main zoological groups at the class level.

- Specific objectives

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the morpho-functional knowledge of the body plans of the animal phyla, essential to the interpretation of the adaptations and the evolutionary history of the Metazoa.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the diagnostic skills for the identification of animal groups and the critical skills for the selection of appropriate animal models for experimental biology.

Critical and judgmental capacities:
During the laboratory practices, the student will develop critical and judgmental skills by coping with museum and in vivo samples of the main animal phyla, through macroscopic and microscopic observation of morphologies and behaviors and drawings of anatomical parts.

Ability to communicate what has been learned:
Students, especially during the laboratory practices, are encouraged to interact with each other and with the teachers to implement practical activities (observation, identification, analysis and critical comment of the samples).

Ability to continue the study independently in the life:
The student will acquire the language of Zoology, in terms of both taxonomic nomenclature and descriptive nomenclature of morphologies and functional and evolutionary processes of animals. These skills will make the student able to face future biological studies, including experimental activities where animals are the model of study.

Educational objectives

General skills
To get a good knowledge of nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and reactivity of the main classes of organic compounds. The above knowledge ought to allow the student to program chemical reactions necessary for his work. In addition the knowledge of the organic chemistry ought to allow a better understanding of the biochemical reactions also of those involved in secondary metabolites biogenesis.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties of organic molecules.
- Knowledge of stereochemistry and understanding of the consequences related to molecular chirality in organic and organic chemistry.
- Knowledge of the reactivity of the different functional groups
- Basic knowledge of biomolecules, such as carbohydrates, amino acids and lipids

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- use of the nomenclature of organic compounds
- ability to apply the acquired knowledge to problems of organic chemistry

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General objectives

The main objective is to allow the student to acquire knowledge of the structure and functioning of natural and anthropized
ecosystems, the interactions between species and between these and the physico-chemical environment. The student will be
able to understand: (1) the role of environmental factors in the numerical variations of populations and (2) the importance of
species interactions in the ecosystem development processes (ecological succession) and associated variations in energy
flows allocated to growth and maintenance. She/He will understand the role of man in the acceleration of environmental
changes. The student will be guided through examples of real case studies that will be objects of discussion in the classroom
to contribute to the development of skills in basic ecology.

Specific objectives -

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will know theories, mechanisms and models of ecological processes at different
scales of biological organization, from populations to ecosystems. She/He will understand the role of environmental factors
in the numerical variations of populations and the importance of interactions between species in ecosystem development
processes. She/He will understand the meaning of sustainability of the dynamics of natural populations including human
populations.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
At the end of the course the student will master the theories of ecology and
the experiences that led to their formulation. The student will know how to define the different aspects of the same ecological
problem. She/He will be able to apply graphic models to interactions between species and to ecological successions.

Making judgments:
The student will be able to interpret and compare literature data on the same topic. She/He will know
how to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the acquired knowledge. These goals will be achieved through a
strong interactivity between the teacher and the student and between students on the topics covered.

Communication skills:
During the lessons, the student will be stimulated to interact with the teacher and the class and to
communicate what she/he has learned through the discussion of fundamental topics of ecology. Communication skills will be
evaluated during the oral exam.

Learning skills:
The student will know the basic principles of ecology and the most important contributions from other
disciplines of biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics to ecological theories, using an evolutionary key and learning the
appropriate terminology. This will allow the student during her/his career not to limit to the observation and description of
natural phenomena as separate events but to logically link the acquired knowledge by identifying the underlying mechanisms
and the cause / effect relationship.

Educational objectives

General skills.

At the end of the course and after passing the exam, the student will have acquired the knowledge and skills in the areas below. In general, the student will be able to: describe the structure and function of the main classes of biological macromolecules; explain the main metabolic pathways in terms of chemical reactions, recognizing and reproducing the structures of the metabolites; explain the principles and applications of the most common biochemical methodologies. On the basis of the acquired knowledge, the student will have the ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view, describing the molecular bases of life in terms of structures and chemical reactions. Students' critical and judgmental skills will be developed through excercise classes, in which videos will be projected and numerical exercises carried out, and through laboratory experiences. In the latter, students will apply the theoretical concepts studied in class, performing and interpreting experiments that, in the future, they will be able to independently reproduce. Communication skills will also be exercised during the theoretical lessons, which include moments of open discussion. In the future, the student will be able to count on the knowledge and skills just described for the understanding of other disciplines and for the work in analysis and research laboratories.

Specific skills.

a) knowledge and ability to understand
- Knowledge and understanding of the relationship between structure and function of the main classes of macromolecules and biological molecules;
- understanding of metabolism chemical logic;
- knowledge of the main metabolic pathways and of their single reactions;
- understanding of the principles and phenomena underlying the main biochemical methodologies;

b) ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view;
- ability to apply appropriate techniques to specific experimental problems;

c) autonomy of judgment
- be able to solve biochemical problems, also through a quantitative approach;
- be able to identify biological and biomedical phenomena that can be explained from a biochemical point of view;
- be able to select and evaluate the most appropriate techniques to solve a specific experimental problem;

d) communication skills
- be able to illustrate and explain biochemical phenomena with appropriate terms and with logical rigor;
- be able to draw the structure of the main metabolites and of biomolecules in general;
- be able to describe how the main biochemical techniques work;

e) learning ability
- acquisition of the fundamentals and cognitive tools to continue independently in the study of biochemistry;
- acquisition of the basic knowledge necessary to progress autonomously in other biological disciplines;
- ability to learn quickly and apply biochemical techniques in laboratory working environments;

Educational objectives

General skills The course regards the Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates. The main objective is to introduce the students to the "organism" level of Biological organization taking as a model the taxon of Vertebrates. The students will be introduced to the systematics and evolutionary history of Vertebrates and will deepen the Comparative Anatomy of some organic systems. The course requires basic knowledge of Cellular Biology, Histology and Embryology. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions. The latter are dedicated to the macroscopic examination and the dissection of Vertebrates (cartilaginous fish, bony fish, bird), to the observation, with adaptive and evolutionary interpretation, of the skull. At the end of the course there will be a visit to the Museum of Comparative Anatomy (Sapienza University) to complete the knowledge acquired during the course.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge and understanding of the systematics and evolution of Vertebrates, at the level of Order.
- Knowledge and understanding of the structure, function and evolution of some organic systems in the various classes of vertebrates with particular reference to their evolution in the transition from the aquatic environment to that of land and air: integumentary system; skeletal system; digestive system; respiratory System; circulatory system; nervous system (outline); sensory organs.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- knowing how to use specific terminology.
- knowing how to interpret a phylogenetic tree.
- be able to recognize, by observing the external morphology, the members of the main orders of vertebrates.
- to be able to interpret, in a functional and evolutionary key, the morphology of the structures related to the systems included in the program.

C) Making judgements
Through the lectures and the practical exercises the student will learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned. In particular, he will be able to know if he correctly identified a vertebrate at the order level on the basis of external morphology. Furthermore, it will be able to evaluate whether the study of a specific anatomical structure can be considered complete (i.e., if its Form, Function and Evolution have been thoroughly studied).

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

The course deals with the genetic material, the flow of genetic information and the mechanisms that control maintenance, variability and regulation of this flow. Main objective of the course is to provide the students a basic knowledge on biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, Proteins) their recognition and interaction, on the processes of transmission, conservation and expression of the genetic material and of their regulation. Prerequisite of the course is therefore a basic knowledge of genetics, chemistry , biochemistry, cell biology and thermodynamics.

A) Knowledge acquired
Students will be able to discuss problems on the macromolecules involved in the storage and frlow of genetic information, on the mechanisms that ensure its transmission and maintenance, and on the regulation of its flow. In addition, they will be updated on the main techniques and approaches of molecular biology and recombinant DNA.

B) General skills
Students will be able to pursue a research career in basic or applied biology and biomedicine in Italy and abroad; to exploit their molecular biology knowledge to critically analyse the impact of biotechnologies, gene therapy, gene editing on society and the environment; to pursue a (biology) teaching career.

C) Making judgments
Students will be able to collect and interpret scientific data related to the basic experiments of molecular biology;

D) Communication skills
Students will be able to communicate information, ideas, and solutions to both specialists and non-interlocutors.

E) Learning skills
Students will be able to develop the necessary skills to continue with molecular studies with an excellent degree of autonomy

Educational objectives

General skills
The course is focused on the study of embryology and the mechanisms that control the different phases of embryogenesis and cell differentiation and on the gametogenesis and fertilization processes. The main aims of the course is to acquire the basic knowledge of the various phases of embryogenesis with a comparative view on different animal models (invertebrates and vertebrates) and of the main mechanisms that control cell fate and specification/differentiation, the maturation of gametes and the mechanisms of fertilization. The course requires established knowledge of cell biology and the basic mechanisms of molecular biology. The course includes lessons and laboratory sessions, dedicated to the observation and recognition of embryos of different animal models and the observation of histological sections of embryos at various developmental stages. The student should have basic knowledge of the microscope and the main histological techniques. The course includes at the end 2-3 bio-applicative seminars with the aim to discuss topics such as animal cloning, the use of adult stem cells and iPS in regenerative medicine, assisted fertilization

Specific skills

Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of the stages of embryogenesis and of the main events characterizing the cell fate and differentiation
-Knowledge and understanding of the various stages of embryo development with a comparative vision
-Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms that control the cell fate
- Knowledge and understanding of the germ line formation and the gametes maturation.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
-know how to use the appropriate terminology
- recognize the various phases of embryogenesis
- recognize the various embryos and the main tissues and organs in development both in whole embryos and in histological sections

C)Autonomy of judgment
- acquiring critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the developmental biology knowledge and of the evolution of the different methodologies used starting from experimental embryology to the recent molecular biology
- evaluation of the knowledge learned through self-assessment tests and through an exception test

D) Communication skills
-Describe what has been learned through the oral test using scientific language properties and knowing how to integrate, discuss and analyze in a critical way what has been learned

E) Learning skills
- learn the appropriate terminology
- connect and integrate the acquired knowledge in a logical way
- identify the most relevant topics and their potential applicability to current problems.

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Organization of viral genomes and multiplication strategies of viruses
- Virus-host cell interactions and genetic mechanisms of virus evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from viruses and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
General Physiology is aimed at providing in-depth knowledge on the molecular and cellular principles that regulate the normal functions of organs and systems that characterize a complex living organism. The course includes an initial part that explores more closely themes of cellular physiology, and then addresses the study of the functions of individual organs and mechanisms of mutual interaction between them, on the basis of the homeostatic balance on which functions a living organism. The study of Physiology is fundamental for the professional training of students of the Faculty of Science and since it is a very wide discipline, its study requires the knowledge of Cell Biology, Histology, Physics, Chemistry, and Biochemistry, acquired in the first two years of the undergraduate training in Biological Sciences. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions focused on the study of basic physiological principles. During the course the use of simple methods of investigation of physiological parameters is also learned.

Specific skill
A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of plasma membrane function in the maintenance of homeostasis of eukaryotic cells, with references to its structure
- Knowledge and understanding of the functions of cell types that characterize the different tissues
- Knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, structural and functional organization of the individual organs
- Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of communication between cells, organs and systems, and of the integration of the functions of the different organs, with specific regard to mechanisms of regulation of functional homeostasis
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods of study in physiology

B) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of specific terminology
- Knowing how to identify the right procedures to solve Physiology questions
- Know how to recognize, in the functioning of the systems and physiological systems, the general chemical and biophysical laws that regulate the lifeless world

C) Making judgments
- Acquire critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the progress of Physiological knowledge and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments
- Learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
- Know how to communicate what has been learned during the oral examination

E) Learning ability
- learn the specific terminology
- ability to make logical connections between the topic covered
- ability to Identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The course aims to provide knowledge on the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that allow plants to live in
different environments. The course starts from the study of water and nutrient transports to reach important topics
such as photosynthesis, photoreceptors and plant hormones. The student will acquire knowledge on the interaction
between light, water and carbon dioxide. They will learn the biochemical mechanisms of photosynthesis in both light
reactions and Calvin cycle. He will be able to distinguish between the various photosynthetic metabolisms (C3, C4,
CAM) and to understand the molecular and physiological basis of the symbiotic interactions between plants and
mycorrhizal fungi or nitrogen fixing bacteria. The initial contents of the course are linked to those of the courses of
Cellular Biology, General and Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular and Botany Biology
and Plant Diversity. The course includes theoretical and methodological lectures, dedicated to techniques and
innovative approaches related to plant physiology and biotechnology.

Expected learning outcomes.

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the main physiological processes of the plant
-Knowledge of the mechanisms by which the plant is able to transform light energy into chemical energy;
-Knowledge of the mechanisms that allow the plant to recover mineral nutrients from the environment;
-Understanding the main plant metabolic pathways.
-Understanding the processes that plant exploits to react to environmental changes using hormones and
photoreceptors.
-Knowledge of basic techniques for the study of plant physiology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
The student will acquire the skills of:
-Use the correct scientific terminology;
-Predict the mechanisms by which the plant reacts to changes in environmental conditions;
-Use the simplest techniques at the base of plant biotechnologies by planning simple experimental protocols

C) Making judgements
-The student will acquire autonomy of judgment in the recognition of the molecular mechanism at the base of plant
physiology, for the adequacy of the various analytical techniques, for the interpretation of protocols of genetic
transformation and for the interpretation of experimental laboratory data.
-The student will learn to ask the right questions to himself for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge
learned.

D) Communication skills
The student will be stimulated to expose the concepts exposed in the classroom so that he can be able to correctly
communicate the knowledge learned.

E) Learning skills
The student will acquire a study method that allows the understanding of specific topics related to plant physiology.
He will acquire the ability to understand the specific terminology, logically connect the acquired knowledge obtaining
mastery of the relevant themes of plant physiology.

Educational objectives

Main objectives:
The course aims to study sectorial English language of Biological Sciences, through the reading and
listening of text/audio in their original language, alongside the study of the main morphosyntactic
structures of English language in order to improve oral and written comprehension skills. It is
required a B1 English Level according to the Common European Framework for foreign languages.
At the end of the course students should be able to use major English grammatical structures, have a
competent knowledge of English language and vocabulary used in specific scientific contexts, read
and listen specific scientific materials and be able to analyse them in detail.
Specific objectives:
A. Knowledge and understanding
- Sectorial English language of Biological Sciences knowledge
- Ability to understand specific terms and expression and English grammar within texts.
- Oral and written comprehension skills
B. Applying knowledge and understanding
- Ability to use the main morphosyntactic structures of English language and specific
vocabulary.
C. Making judgements
- Acquire the ability to express an opinion about the issues addressed during lessons through
the use of the main major English grammatical structures and specific vocabulary.
D. Communication skills
- Oral and written communication skills
-
E. Learning skills
- Learn the specific scientific vocabulary
- Identify the most relevant topics addressed during lessons.

Educational objectives

The final work is aimed at verifying communication skills and the ability in oral dissertation. Before a commitee the student will expose the result of an experimental or methodological activity , or a bibliographical research, under the supervision of a tutor.

Knoledge and Comprehension skills

The student acquires knowledge of a wide range of methodological procedures and instruments used in the biological research field

Authonomy in judgement

The studed acquires the following skills:

- Evaluation and data interpetation as a result of lab research or of experimental work
- Lab security matters

Communication skills

Written and oral communication both in italian and English language
Data processing and presentation
Dissemination and trasnmission of biological themes of actual interest

Ability to learn

Study of bibliographic and reference material
Study of specific Data banks or databases
Basic instruments for updating konwledge and lifelong learning paths

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

The students at the end of the course will be able:
A) Knowledge and understanding
To know the most common chemical elements, their properties and the way they behave in simple chemical reactions, being able to solve exercises on stoichiometric calculations and equilibrium reactions in solution;
To know the principal classes of substances (acids, bases and salts) and their behaviour in aqueous solutions by applying fundamental thermodynamic properties;
To understand qualitative and quantitative aspects of chemical transformations, as described in lessons and tutorials;
To use reference basic chemistry manuals and handbooks to understand more advanced courses.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
To apply the basic chemical knowledge to correlate the macroscopic properties and the elemental structure of matter at the level of chemical elements and simple molecules.

C) Making judgements
To critical think through the historical survey of the main discoveries in chemistry
To learn by questioning.

D) Communication skills
To communicate the acquired theoretical and the experimental knowledge.

E) Learning skills
To learn the specific terminology;
To make the logical connections between the topics covered;
To identify the most relevant topics.

Educational objectives

General skills
This course is designed to explore the fundamentals of cell biology and tissue structure. The main goal is for learners to understand how molecular and cellular components are organized, how cells work, what are the structure and functions of differentiated cells in human tissues. High school basics in chemistry and biochemistry are assumed knowledge for the course. General and Inorganic Chemistry contents (taught in the same semester) are advantageous. The course includes classroom lectures and learning laboratory sessions. During lab sessions, students learn how the histological techniques work, how the images observed with the traditional light microscope can be interpreted for recognizing structural features of the main tissues and how to use the Virtual microscope, a learning resource freely accessible over the Web, for reviewing histological material.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-knowing and understanding the chemical composition and the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
-knowing and understanding cellular activities through the functions of the specialized cellular components and organelles
-knowing and understanding structural and functional properties of differentiated cells of human tissues
-knowing and understanding how study methods work in cytology and histology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use the specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Cell Biology
- be able of identifying cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The teaching covers plant cytology, histology, anatomy, reproduction and systematics. The main objective of the teaching is to allow the students to acquire the fundamental knowledge about the structure and functions of plant cells, tissues and organs. Knowledge and understanding of classification methods. Concept of species, taxonomic ranks and nomenclature. Characters with taxonomic value of plant organisms (Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi). The teaching requires basic knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry acquired in high school, which is considered ascertained by passing the entrance test. The initial contents of the knowledge on the properties of atoms and molecules acquired during the teaching of General and Inorganic Chemistry (taught in the same semester). The teaching includes lectures and laboratory experiences, dedicated to learning basic histological techniques and the use of the optical microscope for observation of cells and tissues.

Specific objectives

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the structural peculiarities of the plant cell, prokaryotic and eukaryotic, with reference to Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi
-Knowledge and understanding of the various levels of plant organization: cellular, tissue, organ and organism -
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods to study plant cytology, histology and organography
- Knowledge and understanding of the classification of flowering plants with a phylogenetic approach

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use a specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Plant Biology
- be able to identify plant cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.
-be able to identify and recognize the main morphological characters and use tools (dichotomous analytical keys) for the recognition of plants
C) Making judgements
- acquire the ability to recognize the interrelations between structure and function at different levels of organization, from the subcellular to the organ level
- learning by questioning
D) Communication skills
- be able to communicate what has been learned during the lectures, the laboratory experiences and during the study
E) Learning skills
- learn the specific terminology of the matter
- logically connect the acquired knowledge
- identify the most relevant topics of the matter

Educational objectives

General skills
The Physics course deals with basic principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism. The main aim of the course is to enable students to acquire knowledge of fundamental physical phenomena and - in particular - to describe them through physical laws and mathematical models. At the end of the course, a student should have acquired the ability to formalize a simple problem through the identification of the physical laws that characterize it, and to quantitatively compute the corresponding solution. The final objective is the acquisition of a rigorous scientific method that can be applied to any scientific topic the students will study in the future, going beyond simple problems in classical physics.

The course requires basic knowledge of analytical and numerical calculation and is delivered through classroom lectures, dedicated to the presentation of physical phenomena and the laws that describe them, and through exercise sessions aimed at consolidating the understanding of physical phenomena and their application to specific problems.
In addition, the course foresees a series of self-evaluation activities (quiz on the web-based platform elearning) and two intermediate written tests (the first one at the mid of the course and the second one at the end).
Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of classical mechanics, in particular the three Newton's laws and the laws of energy and momentum conservation;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics, with examples of applications in biology;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of electricity and magnetism, with examples of applications in biology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- can apply their knowledge to describe a physical phenomenon, first in a qualitative way and then in a quantitative way, discriminating the dominant effects from the secondary ones;
- have the ability to represent in a rigorous way a physical phenomenon through the identification of the physical laws that describe it;
- have the ability to identify the best method to find the solution of simple physical problems.

C) Making judgements
- have the ability to apply their knowledge and make their judgements through devising the solution to physical problems.

D) Communication skills
- can communicate their knowledge using a proper and rigorous scientific language.

E) Learning skills
- have learnt the specific terminology;
- have acquired the ability the logical connections between different topics presented in the course.

Educational objectives

General skills
The course provides students with a basic knowledge of Genetics aimed at understanding the rules of inheritance, their molecular bases, their main applications and their implications for evolution. In addition, the course will allow students to understand how genetic information is encoded at the DNA level and how the biochemical processes of the cell translate genetic information into a phenotype. The course aims to achieve these objectives through an analysis of the experimental evidences and their interpretation.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of the genetic material
-Knowledge and understanding of the rules of genetic transmission
-Knowledge and understanding of mutations and their implications
-Basic knowledge on the dynamics of genes in populations as well as on the genetic mechanisms underlying evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding

- usage of a proper genetic terminology
- identification of the right procedures to solve genetic problems
- formulation of hypotheses on the hereditary transmission of characters
- constructing and interpreting genetic maps and genealogical trees
- acquisition of conceptual tools for the genetic dissection of biological systems
- utilizing basic biostatistical methodologies for data analysis and hypothesis testing

C) Making judgements
- Acquisition of a critical judgment capacity on solving problems of formal genetics, through the study of the evolution of the gene concept from Mendel to the present day and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments.
- Addressing questions for the elaboration and deepening of the gained information

D) Communication skills
- communicating the genetic concepts acquired during the course with appropriate terminology

E) Learning skills
- logically connecting the acquired knowledge
- identification of the most relevant topics of the issues discussed during the course

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The second part of the course (MMIB) is devoted to teach how to perform a statistical analysis of empirical data, also exploiting an appropriate software.
It is assumed that students entering the course know the basics of elementary mathematics from the high school. The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems. The second part of the course (MMIB) include as well some exercise sessions in the computer lab, where students apply their knowledge to the statistical analysis of biological data.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
• Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
• Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
• Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
• Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
• Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
• Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
• Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
• Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
• Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
• Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
• Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
• Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
• Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
• Ability to self-questioning.
• Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
• Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
• Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

Educational objectives

General objectives
At the end of the course the student will have acquired a descriptive knowledge of the body plans, of the adaptive and evolutionary biology of the main animal Phyla. The student will also be able to identify the main zoological groups at the class level.

- Specific objectives

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the morpho-functional knowledge of the body plans of the animal phyla, essential to the interpretation of the adaptations and the evolutionary history of the Metazoa.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the diagnostic skills for the identification of animal groups and the critical skills for the selection of appropriate animal models for experimental biology.

Critical and judgmental capacities:
During the laboratory practices, the student will develop critical and judgmental skills by coping with museum and in vivo samples of the main animal phyla, through macroscopic and microscopic observation of morphologies and behaviors and drawings of anatomical parts.

Ability to communicate what has been learned:
Students, especially during the laboratory practices, are encouraged to interact with each other and with the teachers to implement practical activities (observation, identification, analysis and critical comment of the samples).

Ability to continue the study independently in the life:
The student will acquire the language of Zoology, in terms of both taxonomic nomenclature and descriptive nomenclature of morphologies and functional and evolutionary processes of animals. These skills will make the student able to face future biological studies, including experimental activities where animals are the model of study.

Educational objectives

General skills
To get a good knowledge of nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and reactivity of the main classes of organic compounds. The above knowledge ought to allow the student to program chemical reactions necessary for his work. In addition the knowledge of the organic chemistry ought to allow a better understanding of the biochemical reactions also of those involved in secondary metabolites biogenesis.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties of organic molecules.
- Knowledge of stereochemistry and understanding of the consequences related to molecular chirality in organic and organic chemistry.
- Knowledge of the reactivity of the different functional groups
- Basic knowledge of biomolecules, such as carbohydrates, amino acids and lipids

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- use of the nomenclature of organic compounds
- ability to apply the acquired knowledge to problems of organic chemistry

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General objectives

The main objective is to allow the student to acquire knowledge of the structure and functioning of natural and anthropized
ecosystems, the interactions between species and between these and the physico-chemical environment. The student will be
able to understand: (1) the role of environmental factors in the numerical variations of populations and (2) the importance of
species interactions in the ecosystem development processes (ecological succession) and associated variations in energy
flows allocated to growth and maintenance. She/He will understand the role of man in the acceleration of environmental
changes. The student will be guided through examples of real case studies that will be objects of discussion in the classroom
to contribute to the development of skills in basic ecology.

Specific objectives -

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will know theories, mechanisms and models of ecological processes at different
scales of biological organization, from populations to ecosystems. She/He will understand the role of environmental factors
in the numerical variations of populations and the importance of interactions between species in ecosystem development
processes. She/He will understand the meaning of sustainability of the dynamics of natural populations including human
populations.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
At the end of the course the student will master the theories of ecology and
the experiences that led to their formulation. The student will know how to define the different aspects of the same ecological
problem. She/He will be able to apply graphic models to interactions between species and to ecological successions.

Making judgments:
The student will be able to interpret and compare literature data on the same topic. She/He will know
how to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the acquired knowledge. These goals will be achieved through a
strong interactivity between the teacher and the student and between students on the topics covered.

Communication skills:
During the lessons, the student will be stimulated to interact with the teacher and the class and to
communicate what she/he has learned through the discussion of fundamental topics of ecology. Communication skills will be
evaluated during the oral exam.

Learning skills:
The student will know the basic principles of ecology and the most important contributions from other
disciplines of biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics to ecological theories, using an evolutionary key and learning the
appropriate terminology. This will allow the student during her/his career not to limit to the observation and description of
natural phenomena as separate events but to logically link the acquired knowledge by identifying the underlying mechanisms
and the cause / effect relationship.

Educational objectives

General skills.

At the end of the course and after passing the exam, the student will have acquired the knowledge and skills in the areas below. In general, the student will be able to: describe the structure and function of the main classes of biological macromolecules; explain the main metabolic pathways in terms of chemical reactions, recognizing and reproducing the structures of the metabolites; explain the principles and applications of the most common biochemical methodologies. On the basis of the acquired knowledge, the student will have the ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view, describing the molecular bases of life in terms of structures and chemical reactions. Students' critical and judgmental skills will be developed through excercise classes, in which videos will be projected and numerical exercises carried out, and through laboratory experiences. In the latter, students will apply the theoretical concepts studied in class, performing and interpreting experiments that, in the future, they will be able to independently reproduce. Communication skills will also be exercised during the theoretical lessons, which include moments of open discussion. In the future, the student will be able to count on the knowledge and skills just described for the understanding of other disciplines and for the work in analysis and research laboratories.

Specific skills.

a) knowledge and ability to understand
- Knowledge and understanding of the relationship between structure and function of the main classes of macromolecules and biological molecules;
- understanding of metabolism chemical logic;
- knowledge of the main metabolic pathways and of their single reactions;
- understanding of the principles and phenomena underlying the main biochemical methodologies;

b) ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view;
- ability to apply appropriate techniques to specific experimental problems;

c) autonomy of judgment
- be able to solve biochemical problems, also through a quantitative approach;
- be able to identify biological and biomedical phenomena that can be explained from a biochemical point of view;
- be able to select and evaluate the most appropriate techniques to solve a specific experimental problem;

d) communication skills
- be able to illustrate and explain biochemical phenomena with appropriate terms and with logical rigor;
- be able to draw the structure of the main metabolites and of biomolecules in general;
- be able to describe how the main biochemical techniques work;

e) learning ability
- acquisition of the fundamentals and cognitive tools to continue independently in the study of biochemistry;
- acquisition of the basic knowledge necessary to progress autonomously in other biological disciplines;
- ability to learn quickly and apply biochemical techniques in laboratory working environments;

Educational objectives

General skills The course regards the Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates. The main objective is to introduce the students to the "organism" level of Biological organization taking as a model the taxon of Vertebrates. The students will be introduced to the systematics and evolutionary history of Vertebrates and will deepen the Comparative Anatomy of some organic systems. The course requires basic knowledge of Cellular Biology, Histology and Embryology. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions. The latter are dedicated to the macroscopic examination and the dissection of Vertebrates (cartilaginous fish, bony fish, bird), to the observation, with adaptive and evolutionary interpretation, of the skull. At the end of the course there will be a visit to the Museum of Comparative Anatomy (Sapienza University) to complete the knowledge acquired during the course.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge and understanding of the systematics and evolution of Vertebrates, at the level of Order.
- Knowledge and understanding of the structure, function and evolution of some organic systems in the various classes of vertebrates with particular reference to their evolution in the transition from the aquatic environment to that of land and air: integumentary system; skeletal system; digestive system; respiratory System; circulatory system; nervous system (outline); sensory organs.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- knowing how to use specific terminology.
- knowing how to interpret a phylogenetic tree.
- be able to recognize, by observing the external morphology, the members of the main orders of vertebrates.
- to be able to interpret, in a functional and evolutionary key, the morphology of the structures related to the systems included in the program.

C) Making judgements
Through the lectures and the practical exercises the student will learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned. In particular, he will be able to know if he correctly identified a vertebrate at the order level on the basis of external morphology. Furthermore, it will be able to evaluate whether the study of a specific anatomical structure can be considered complete (i.e., if its Form, Function and Evolution have been thoroughly studied).

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

The course deals with the genetic material, the flow of genetic information and the mechanisms that control maintenance, variability and regulation of this flow. Main objective of the course is to provide the students a basic knowledge on biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, Proteins) their recognition and interaction, on the processes of transmission, conservation and expression of the genetic material and of their regulation. Prerequisite of the course is therefore a basic knowledge of genetics, chemistry , biochemistry, cell biology and thermodynamics.

A) Knowledge acquired
Students will be able to discuss problems on the macromolecules involved in the storage and frlow of genetic information, on the mechanisms that ensure its transmission and maintenance, and on the regulation of its flow. In addition, they will be updated on the main techniques and approaches of molecular biology and recombinant DNA.

B) General skills
Students will be able to pursue a research career in basic or applied biology and biomedicine in Italy and abroad; to exploit their molecular biology knowledge to critically analyse the impact of biotechnologies, gene therapy, gene editing on society and the environment; to pursue a (biology) teaching career.

C) Making judgments
Students will be able to collect and interpret scientific data related to the basic experiments of molecular biology;

D) Communication skills
Students will be able to communicate information, ideas, and solutions to both specialists and non-interlocutors.

E) Learning skills
Students will be able to develop the necessary skills to continue with molecular studies with an excellent degree of autonomy

Educational objectives

General skills
The course is focused on the study of embryology and the mechanisms that control the different phases of embryogenesis and cell differentiation and on the gametogenesis and fertilization processes. The main aims of the course is to acquire the basic knowledge of the various phases of embryogenesis with a comparative view on different animal models (invertebrates and vertebrates) and of the main mechanisms that control cell fate and specification/differentiation, the maturation of gametes and the mechanisms of fertilization. The course requires established knowledge of cell biology and the basic mechanisms of molecular biology. The course includes lessons and laboratory sessions, dedicated to the observation and recognition of embryos of different animal models and the observation of histological sections of embryos at various developmental stages. The student should have basic knowledge of the microscope and the main histological techniques. The course includes at the end 2-3 bio-applicative seminars with the aim to discuss topics such as animal cloning, the use of adult stem cells and iPS in regenerative medicine, assisted fertilization

Specific skills

Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of the stages of embryogenesis and of the main events characterizing the cell fate and differentiation
-Knowledge and understanding of the various stages of embryo development with a comparative vision
-Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms that control the cell fate
- Knowledge and understanding of the germ line formation and the gametes maturation.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
-know how to use the appropriate terminology
- recognize the various phases of embryogenesis
- recognize the various embryos and the main tissues and organs in development both in whole embryos and in histological sections

C)Autonomy of judgment
- acquiring critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the developmental biology knowledge and of the evolution of the different methodologies used starting from experimental embryology to the recent molecular biology
- evaluation of the knowledge learned through self-assessment tests and through an exception test

D) Communication skills
-Describe what has been learned through the oral test using scientific language properties and knowing how to integrate, discuss and analyze in a critical way what has been learned

E) Learning skills
- learn the appropriate terminology
- connect and integrate the acquired knowledge in a logical way
- identify the most relevant topics and their potential applicability to current problems.

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Organization of viral genomes and multiplication strategies of viruses
- Virus-host cell interactions and genetic mechanisms of virus evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from viruses and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
General Physiology is aimed at providing in-depth knowledge on the molecular and cellular principles that regulate the normal functions of organs and systems that characterize a complex living organism. The course includes an initial part that explores more closely themes of cellular physiology, and then addresses the study of the functions of individual organs and mechanisms of mutual interaction between them, on the basis of the homeostatic balance on which functions a living organism. The study of Physiology is fundamental for the professional training of students of the Faculty of Science and since it is a very wide discipline, its study requires the knowledge of Cell Biology, Histology, Physics, Chemistry, and Biochemistry, acquired in the first two years of the undergraduate training in Biological Sciences. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions focused on the study of basic physiological principles. During the course the use of simple methods of investigation of physiological parameters is also learned.

Specific skill
A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of plasma membrane function in the maintenance of homeostasis of eukaryotic cells, with references to its structure
- Knowledge and understanding of the functions of cell types that characterize the different tissues
- Knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, structural and functional organization of the individual organs
- Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of communication between cells, organs and systems, and of the integration of the functions of the different organs, with specific regard to mechanisms of regulation of functional homeostasis
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods of study in physiology

B) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of specific terminology
- Knowing how to identify the right procedures to solve Physiology questions
- Know how to recognize, in the functioning of the systems and physiological systems, the general chemical and biophysical laws that regulate the lifeless world

C) Making judgments
- Acquire critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the progress of Physiological knowledge and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments
- Learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
- Know how to communicate what has been learned during the oral examination

E) Learning ability
- learn the specific terminology
- ability to make logical connections between the topic covered
- ability to Identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The course aims to provide knowledge on the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that allow plants to live in
different environments. The course starts from the study of water and nutrient transports to reach important topics
such as photosynthesis, photoreceptors and plant hormones. The student will acquire knowledge on the interaction
between light, water and carbon dioxide. They will learn the biochemical mechanisms of photosynthesis in both light
reactions and Calvin cycle. He will be able to distinguish between the various photosynthetic metabolisms (C3, C4,
CAM) and to understand the molecular and physiological basis of the symbiotic interactions between plants and
mycorrhizal fungi or nitrogen fixing bacteria. The initial contents of the course are linked to those of the courses of
Cellular Biology, General and Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular and Botany Biology
and Plant Diversity. The course includes theoretical and methodological lectures, dedicated to techniques and
innovative approaches related to plant physiology and biotechnology.

Expected learning outcomes.

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the main physiological processes of the plant
-Knowledge of the mechanisms by which the plant is able to transform light energy into chemical energy;
-Knowledge of the mechanisms that allow the plant to recover mineral nutrients from the environment;
-Understanding the main plant metabolic pathways.
-Understanding the processes that plant exploits to react to environmental changes using hormones and
photoreceptors.
-Knowledge of basic techniques for the study of plant physiology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
The student will acquire the skills of:
-Use the correct scientific terminology;
-Predict the mechanisms by which the plant reacts to changes in environmental conditions;
-Use the simplest techniques at the base of plant biotechnologies by planning simple experimental protocols

C) Making judgements
-The student will acquire autonomy of judgment in the recognition of the molecular mechanism at the base of plant
physiology, for the adequacy of the various analytical techniques, for the interpretation of protocols of genetic
transformation and for the interpretation of experimental laboratory data.
-The student will learn to ask the right questions to himself for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge
learned.

D) Communication skills
The student will be stimulated to expose the concepts exposed in the classroom so that he can be able to correctly
communicate the knowledge learned.

E) Learning skills
The student will acquire a study method that allows the understanding of specific topics related to plant physiology.
He will acquire the ability to understand the specific terminology, logically connect the acquired knowledge obtaining
mastery of the relevant themes of plant physiology.

Educational objectives

General objectives –
The main objective is to allow the student to acquire knowledge of the applications of the basic ecology principles to emerging environmental problems (pollution, biological resource exploitation, climate change, etc.), moving through the levels of organism, population, community and ecosystem up to the macro-ecological scales (landscape, regional and global). Through lectures, seminars and practical examples, the student will be guided in the diagnosis and recovery of ecosystems, in the conservation and management of biodiversity and natural populations in aquatic and terrestrial environments. Real case studies will be discussed in the classroom to encourage the development of skills in applied ecology.

Specific objectives -
Knowledge and understanding:
The student will know and understand the origin and the management approaches to the current environmental crisis. She/He will know the specific terminology of applied ecology, as well as the theories and the mechanisms of ecological processes at different scales of biological organization, from populations to the ecosphere. She/he will understand the role of environmental factors and the human interference in the numerical variations of populations and in the ecosystem
development processes. The understanding of the interdependence between environmental phenomena will be strongly stimulated, also through the analysis and discussion of specific study cases in the classroom.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
At the end of the course, the student will know in depth the main applications of ecological theories useful for solving current environmental problems and will be able to use the specific terminology. She/He will be able to address problems and questions related to the various themes of applied ecology. She/He will master the dynamics of threatened populations and harmful species and will be able to apply the ecological principles to their management. She/He will know the causes of pollution, and how to measure it, and will acquire critical tools to interpret and compare environmental recovery strategies through the analysis of study cases.

Making judgments:
The student will read critically and discuss, in light of her/his knowledge, literature data to address specific problems related to the treated issues. This objective will be achieved through a strong interactivity between teacher and student and between students, on the topics of applied ecology.

Communication skills:
During the lessons, the student will be stimulated to interact with the teacher and the class and to communicate what she/he has learned through the discussion of fundamental topics of applied ecology from lectures and scientific literature. Communication skills will be evaluated during the oral exam.

Learning skills:
The good knowledge of the applied ecology and the main approaches in solving practical environmental problems with basic integrations with other biological disciplines will allow the student to continue the bioecological studies in an autonomous and flexible way without losing sight of the physiology of the organisms and their evolutionary capacity. The student at the end of the course will then acquire the ability to identify problematic and innovative aspects in biological issues and to use cognitive tools for the continuous updating of knowledge.

Educational objectives

Course Objective
The objectives are to providing basic knowledge of botany in order to understand: the relationship between climate and plant distribution, the importance of the structure-function relationship for shaping the plant adaptative strategy to ecological factors, the plant resource use capacity by the identification of the adaptative strategies, the relationship among functional plant traits, growth process and biomass allocation in response to abiotic ecological factors, the relationship among functional plant traits, community structure, and ecosystem functioning, also considering the climate change effects. The course aims also at providing the practical knowledge on the working of the instrumentations used for analysing plant functional traits.

Applying knowledge and understanding
Knowing how to use specific terminology.
Knowing how to identify the measurement methodologies according to the specific objectives to be achieved in the field of plant ecology.
Knowing how to recognize the structural characteristics of plants and ecosystems, and the leaf morphological, anatomical and physiological traits.
Making judgements
Acquire critical judgment on the functioning of plant species and their adaptive capability through the study of the key structural and functional traits and the phenotypic plasticity.
Acquire analytical skills for the deepening and applicability of the knowledge learned.
Communication skills
Knowing how to communicate what they have learned during the oral examination.
Learning skills
Learn the specific terminology.
Logically connect the acquired knowledge.
Identify the most relevant topics of the subjects covered.

Educational objectives

Main objectives:
The course aims to study sectorial English language of Biological Sciences, through the reading and
listening of text/audio in their original language, alongside the study of the main morphosyntactic
structures of English language in order to improve oral and written comprehension skills. It is
required a B1 English Level according to the Common European Framework for foreign languages.
At the end of the course students should be able to use major English grammatical structures, have a
competent knowledge of English language and vocabulary used in specific scientific contexts, read
and listen specific scientific materials and be able to analyse them in detail.
Specific objectives:
A. Knowledge and understanding
- Sectorial English language of Biological Sciences knowledge
- Ability to understand specific terms and expression and English grammar within texts.
- Oral and written comprehension skills
B. Applying knowledge and understanding
- Ability to use the main morphosyntactic structures of English language and specific
vocabulary.
C. Making judgements
- Acquire the ability to express an opinion about the issues addressed during lessons through
the use of the main major English grammatical structures and specific vocabulary.
D. Communication skills
- Oral and written communication skills
-
E. Learning skills
- Learn the specific scientific vocabulary
- Identify the most relevant topics addressed during lessons.

Educational objectives

The final work is aimed at verifying communication skills and the ability in oral dissertation. Before a commitee the student will expose the result of an experimental or methodological activity , or a bibliographical research, under the supervision of a tutor.

Knoledge and Comprehension skills

The student acquires knowledge of a wide range of methodological procedures and instruments used in the biological research field

Authonomy in judgement

The studed acquires the following skills:

- Evaluation and data interpetation as a result of lab research or of experimental work
- Lab security matters

Communication skills

Written and oral communication both in italian and English language
Data processing and presentation
Dissemination and trasnmission of biological themes of actual interest

Ability to learn

Study of bibliographic and reference material
Study of specific Data banks or databases
Basic instruments for updating konwledge and lifelong learning paths

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

The students at the end of the course will be able:
A) Knowledge and understanding
To know the most common chemical elements, their properties and the way they behave in simple chemical reactions, being able to solve exercises on stoichiometric calculations and equilibrium reactions in solution;
To know the principal classes of substances (acids, bases and salts) and their behaviour in aqueous solutions by applying fundamental thermodynamic properties;
To understand qualitative and quantitative aspects of chemical transformations, as described in lessons and tutorials;
To use reference basic chemistry manuals and handbooks to understand more advanced courses.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
To apply the basic chemical knowledge to correlate the macroscopic properties and the elemental structure of matter at the level of chemical elements and simple molecules.

C) Making judgements
To critical think through the historical survey of the main discoveries in chemistry
To learn by questioning.

D) Communication skills
To communicate the acquired theoretical and the experimental knowledge.

E) Learning skills
To learn the specific terminology;
To make the logical connections between the topics covered;
To identify the most relevant topics.

Educational objectives

General skills
This course is designed to explore the fundamentals of cell biology and tissue structure. The main goal is for learners to understand how molecular and cellular components are organized, how cells work, what are the structure and functions of differentiated cells in human tissues. High school basics in chemistry and biochemistry are assumed knowledge for the course. General and Inorganic Chemistry contents (taught in the same semester) are advantageous. The course includes classroom lectures and learning laboratory sessions. During lab sessions, students learn how the histological techniques work, how the images observed with the traditional light microscope can be interpreted for recognizing structural features of the main tissues and how to use the Virtual microscope, a learning resource freely accessible over the Web, for reviewing histological material.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-knowing and understanding the chemical composition and the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
-knowing and understanding cellular activities through the functions of the specialized cellular components and organelles
-knowing and understanding structural and functional properties of differentiated cells of human tissues
-knowing and understanding how study methods work in cytology and histology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use the specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Cell Biology
- be able of identifying cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The teaching covers plant cytology, histology, anatomy, reproduction and systematics. The main objective of the teaching is to allow the students to acquire the fundamental knowledge about the structure and functions of plant cells, tissues and organs. Knowledge and understanding of classification methods. Concept of species, taxonomic ranks and nomenclature. Characters with taxonomic value of plant organisms (Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi). The teaching requires basic knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry acquired in high school, which is considered ascertained by passing the entrance test. The initial contents of the knowledge on the properties of atoms and molecules acquired during the teaching of General and Inorganic Chemistry (taught in the same semester). The teaching includes lectures and laboratory experiences, dedicated to learning basic histological techniques and the use of the optical microscope for observation of cells and tissues.

Specific objectives

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the structural peculiarities of the plant cell, prokaryotic and eukaryotic, with reference to Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi
-Knowledge and understanding of the various levels of plant organization: cellular, tissue, organ and organism -
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods to study plant cytology, histology and organography
- Knowledge and understanding of the classification of flowering plants with a phylogenetic approach

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use a specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Plant Biology
- be able to identify plant cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.
-be able to identify and recognize the main morphological characters and use tools (dichotomous analytical keys) for the recognition of plants
C) Making judgements
- acquire the ability to recognize the interrelations between structure and function at different levels of organization, from the subcellular to the organ level
- learning by questioning
D) Communication skills
- be able to communicate what has been learned during the lectures, the laboratory experiences and during the study
E) Learning skills
- learn the specific terminology of the matter
- logically connect the acquired knowledge
- identify the most relevant topics of the matter

Educational objectives

General skills
The Physics course deals with basic principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism. The main aim of the course is to enable students to acquire knowledge of fundamental physical phenomena and - in particular - to describe them through physical laws and mathematical models. At the end of the course, a student should have acquired the ability to formalize a simple problem through the identification of the physical laws that characterize it, and to quantitatively compute the corresponding solution. The final objective is the acquisition of a rigorous scientific method that can be applied to any scientific topic the students will study in the future, going beyond simple problems in classical physics.

The course requires basic knowledge of analytical and numerical calculation and is delivered through classroom lectures, dedicated to the presentation of physical phenomena and the laws that describe them, and through exercise sessions aimed at consolidating the understanding of physical phenomena and their application to specific problems.
In addition, the course foresees a series of self-evaluation activities (quiz on the web-based platform elearning) and two intermediate written tests (the first one at the mid of the course and the second one at the end).
Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of classical mechanics, in particular the three Newton's laws and the laws of energy and momentum conservation;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics, with examples of applications in biology;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of electricity and magnetism, with examples of applications in biology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- can apply their knowledge to describe a physical phenomenon, first in a qualitative way and then in a quantitative way, discriminating the dominant effects from the secondary ones;
- have the ability to represent in a rigorous way a physical phenomenon through the identification of the physical laws that describe it;
- have the ability to identify the best method to find the solution of simple physical problems.

C) Making judgements
- have the ability to apply their knowledge and make their judgements through devising the solution to physical problems.

D) Communication skills
- can communicate their knowledge using a proper and rigorous scientific language.

E) Learning skills
- have learnt the specific terminology;
- have acquired the ability the logical connections between different topics presented in the course.

Educational objectives

General skills
The course provides students with a basic knowledge of Genetics aimed at understanding the rules of inheritance, their molecular bases, their main applications and their implications for evolution. In addition, the course will allow students to understand how genetic information is encoded at the DNA level and how the biochemical processes of the cell translate genetic information into a phenotype. The course aims to achieve these objectives through an analysis of the experimental evidences and their interpretation.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of the genetic material
-Knowledge and understanding of the rules of genetic transmission
-Knowledge and understanding of mutations and their implications
-Basic knowledge on the dynamics of genes in populations as well as on the genetic mechanisms underlying evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding

- usage of a proper genetic terminology
- identification of the right procedures to solve genetic problems
- formulation of hypotheses on the hereditary transmission of characters
- constructing and interpreting genetic maps and genealogical trees
- acquisition of conceptual tools for the genetic dissection of biological systems
- utilizing basic biostatistical methodologies for data analysis and hypothesis testing

C) Making judgements
- Acquisition of a critical judgment capacity on solving problems of formal genetics, through the study of the evolution of the gene concept from Mendel to the present day and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments.
- Addressing questions for the elaboration and deepening of the gained information

D) Communication skills
- communicating the genetic concepts acquired during the course with appropriate terminology

E) Learning skills
- logically connecting the acquired knowledge
- identification of the most relevant topics of the issues discussed during the course

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The second part of the course (MMIB) is devoted to teach how to perform a statistical analysis of empirical data, also exploiting an appropriate software.
It is assumed that students entering the course know the basics of elementary mathematics from the high school. The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems. The second part of the course (MMIB) include as well some exercise sessions in the computer lab, where students apply their knowledge to the statistical analysis of biological data.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
• Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
• Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
• Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
• Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
• Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
• Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
• Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
• Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
• Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
• Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
• Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
• Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
• Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
• Ability to self-questioning.
• Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
• Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
• Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

Educational objectives

General objectives
At the end of the course the student will have acquired a descriptive knowledge of the body plans, of the adaptive and evolutionary biology of the main animal Phyla. The student will also be able to identify the main zoological groups at the class level.

- Specific objectives

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the morpho-functional knowledge of the body plans of the animal phyla, essential to the interpretation of the adaptations and the evolutionary history of the Metazoa.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the diagnostic skills for the identification of animal groups and the critical skills for the selection of appropriate animal models for experimental biology.

Critical and judgmental capacities:
During the laboratory practices, the student will develop critical and judgmental skills by coping with museum and in vivo samples of the main animal phyla, through macroscopic and microscopic observation of morphologies and behaviors and drawings of anatomical parts.

Ability to communicate what has been learned:
Students, especially during the laboratory practices, are encouraged to interact with each other and with the teachers to implement practical activities (observation, identification, analysis and critical comment of the samples).

Ability to continue the study independently in the life:
The student will acquire the language of Zoology, in terms of both taxonomic nomenclature and descriptive nomenclature of morphologies and functional and evolutionary processes of animals. These skills will make the student able to face future biological studies, including experimental activities where animals are the model of study.

Educational objectives

General skills
To get a good knowledge of nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and reactivity of the main classes of organic compounds. The above knowledge ought to allow the student to program chemical reactions necessary for his work. In addition the knowledge of the organic chemistry ought to allow a better understanding of the biochemical reactions also of those involved in secondary metabolites biogenesis.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties of organic molecules.
- Knowledge of stereochemistry and understanding of the consequences related to molecular chirality in organic and organic chemistry.
- Knowledge of the reactivity of the different functional groups
- Basic knowledge of biomolecules, such as carbohydrates, amino acids and lipids

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- use of the nomenclature of organic compounds
- ability to apply the acquired knowledge to problems of organic chemistry

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General objectives

The main objective is to allow the student to acquire knowledge of the structure and functioning of natural and anthropized
ecosystems, the interactions between species and between these and the physico-chemical environment. The student will be
able to understand: (1) the role of environmental factors in the numerical variations of populations and (2) the importance of
species interactions in the ecosystem development processes (ecological succession) and associated variations in energy
flows allocated to growth and maintenance. She/He will understand the role of man in the acceleration of environmental
changes. The student will be guided through examples of real case studies that will be objects of discussion in the classroom
to contribute to the development of skills in basic ecology.

Specific objectives -

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will know theories, mechanisms and models of ecological processes at different
scales of biological organization, from populations to ecosystems. She/He will understand the role of environmental factors
in the numerical variations of populations and the importance of interactions between species in ecosystem development
processes. She/He will understand the meaning of sustainability of the dynamics of natural populations including human
populations.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
At the end of the course the student will master the theories of ecology and
the experiences that led to their formulation. The student will know how to define the different aspects of the same ecological
problem. She/He will be able to apply graphic models to interactions between species and to ecological successions.

Making judgments:
The student will be able to interpret and compare literature data on the same topic. She/He will know
how to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the acquired knowledge. These goals will be achieved through a
strong interactivity between the teacher and the student and between students on the topics covered.

Communication skills:
During the lessons, the student will be stimulated to interact with the teacher and the class and to
communicate what she/he has learned through the discussion of fundamental topics of ecology. Communication skills will be
evaluated during the oral exam.

Learning skills:
The student will know the basic principles of ecology and the most important contributions from other
disciplines of biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics to ecological theories, using an evolutionary key and learning the
appropriate terminology. This will allow the student during her/his career not to limit to the observation and description of
natural phenomena as separate events but to logically link the acquired knowledge by identifying the underlying mechanisms
and the cause / effect relationship.

Educational objectives

General skills.

At the end of the course and after passing the exam, the student will have acquired the knowledge and skills in the areas below. In general, the student will be able to: describe the structure and function of the main classes of biological macromolecules; explain the main metabolic pathways in terms of chemical reactions, recognizing and reproducing the structures of the metabolites; explain the principles and applications of the most common biochemical methodologies. On the basis of the acquired knowledge, the student will have the ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view, describing the molecular bases of life in terms of structures and chemical reactions. Students' critical and judgmental skills will be developed through excercise classes, in which videos will be projected and numerical exercises carried out, and through laboratory experiences. In the latter, students will apply the theoretical concepts studied in class, performing and interpreting experiments that, in the future, they will be able to independently reproduce. Communication skills will also be exercised during the theoretical lessons, which include moments of open discussion. In the future, the student will be able to count on the knowledge and skills just described for the understanding of other disciplines and for the work in analysis and research laboratories.

Specific skills.

a) knowledge and ability to understand
- Knowledge and understanding of the relationship between structure and function of the main classes of macromolecules and biological molecules;
- understanding of metabolism chemical logic;
- knowledge of the main metabolic pathways and of their single reactions;
- understanding of the principles and phenomena underlying the main biochemical methodologies;

b) ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view;
- ability to apply appropriate techniques to specific experimental problems;

c) autonomy of judgment
- be able to solve biochemical problems, also through a quantitative approach;
- be able to identify biological and biomedical phenomena that can be explained from a biochemical point of view;
- be able to select and evaluate the most appropriate techniques to solve a specific experimental problem;

d) communication skills
- be able to illustrate and explain biochemical phenomena with appropriate terms and with logical rigor;
- be able to draw the structure of the main metabolites and of biomolecules in general;
- be able to describe how the main biochemical techniques work;

e) learning ability
- acquisition of the fundamentals and cognitive tools to continue independently in the study of biochemistry;
- acquisition of the basic knowledge necessary to progress autonomously in other biological disciplines;
- ability to learn quickly and apply biochemical techniques in laboratory working environments;

Educational objectives

General skills The course regards the Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates. The main objective is to introduce the students to the "organism" level of Biological organization taking as a model the taxon of Vertebrates. The students will be introduced to the systematics and evolutionary history of Vertebrates and will deepen the Comparative Anatomy of some organic systems. The course requires basic knowledge of Cellular Biology, Histology and Embryology. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions. The latter are dedicated to the macroscopic examination and the dissection of Vertebrates (cartilaginous fish, bony fish, bird), to the observation, with adaptive and evolutionary interpretation, of the skull. At the end of the course there will be a visit to the Museum of Comparative Anatomy (Sapienza University) to complete the knowledge acquired during the course.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge and understanding of the systematics and evolution of Vertebrates, at the level of Order.
- Knowledge and understanding of the structure, function and evolution of some organic systems in the various classes of vertebrates with particular reference to their evolution in the transition from the aquatic environment to that of land and air: integumentary system; skeletal system; digestive system; respiratory System; circulatory system; nervous system (outline); sensory organs.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- knowing how to use specific terminology.
- knowing how to interpret a phylogenetic tree.
- be able to recognize, by observing the external morphology, the members of the main orders of vertebrates.
- to be able to interpret, in a functional and evolutionary key, the morphology of the structures related to the systems included in the program.

C) Making judgements
Through the lectures and the practical exercises the student will learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned. In particular, he will be able to know if he correctly identified a vertebrate at the order level on the basis of external morphology. Furthermore, it will be able to evaluate whether the study of a specific anatomical structure can be considered complete (i.e., if its Form, Function and Evolution have been thoroughly studied).

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

The course deals with the genetic material, the flow of genetic information and the mechanisms that control maintenance, variability and regulation of this flow. Main objective of the course is to provide the students a basic knowledge on biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, Proteins) their recognition and interaction, on the processes of transmission, conservation and expression of the genetic material and of their regulation. Prerequisite of the course is therefore a basic knowledge of genetics, chemistry , biochemistry, cell biology and thermodynamics.

A) Knowledge acquired
Students will be able to discuss problems on the macromolecules involved in the storage and frlow of genetic information, on the mechanisms that ensure its transmission and maintenance, and on the regulation of its flow. In addition, they will be updated on the main techniques and approaches of molecular biology and recombinant DNA.

B) General skills
Students will be able to pursue a research career in basic or applied biology and biomedicine in Italy and abroad; to exploit their molecular biology knowledge to critically analyse the impact of biotechnologies, gene therapy, gene editing on society and the environment; to pursue a (biology) teaching career.

C) Making judgments
Students will be able to collect and interpret scientific data related to the basic experiments of molecular biology;

D) Communication skills
Students will be able to communicate information, ideas, and solutions to both specialists and non-interlocutors.

E) Learning skills
Students will be able to develop the necessary skills to continue with molecular studies with an excellent degree of autonomy

Educational objectives

General skills
The course is focused on the study of embryology and the mechanisms that control the different phases of embryogenesis and cell differentiation and on the gametogenesis and fertilization processes. The main aims of the course is to acquire the basic knowledge of the various phases of embryogenesis with a comparative view on different animal models (invertebrates and vertebrates) and of the main mechanisms that control cell fate and specification/differentiation, the maturation of gametes and the mechanisms of fertilization. The course requires established knowledge of cell biology and the basic mechanisms of molecular biology. The course includes lessons and laboratory sessions, dedicated to the observation and recognition of embryos of different animal models and the observation of histological sections of embryos at various developmental stages. The student should have basic knowledge of the microscope and the main histological techniques. The course includes at the end 2-3 bio-applicative seminars with the aim to discuss topics such as animal cloning, the use of adult stem cells and iPS in regenerative medicine, assisted fertilization

Specific skills

Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of the stages of embryogenesis and of the main events characterizing the cell fate and differentiation
-Knowledge and understanding of the various stages of embryo development with a comparative vision
-Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms that control the cell fate
- Knowledge and understanding of the germ line formation and the gametes maturation.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
-know how to use the appropriate terminology
- recognize the various phases of embryogenesis
- recognize the various embryos and the main tissues and organs in development both in whole embryos and in histological sections

C)Autonomy of judgment
- acquiring critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the developmental biology knowledge and of the evolution of the different methodologies used starting from experimental embryology to the recent molecular biology
- evaluation of the knowledge learned through self-assessment tests and through an exception test

D) Communication skills
-Describe what has been learned through the oral test using scientific language properties and knowing how to integrate, discuss and analyze in a critical way what has been learned

E) Learning skills
- learn the appropriate terminology
- connect and integrate the acquired knowledge in a logical way
- identify the most relevant topics and their potential applicability to current problems.

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Organization of viral genomes and multiplication strategies of viruses
- Virus-host cell interactions and genetic mechanisms of virus evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from viruses and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
General Physiology is aimed at providing in-depth knowledge on the molecular and cellular principles that regulate the normal functions of organs and systems that characterize a complex living organism. The course includes an initial part that explores more closely themes of cellular physiology, and then addresses the study of the functions of individual organs and mechanisms of mutual interaction between them, on the basis of the homeostatic balance on which functions a living organism. The study of Physiology is fundamental for the professional training of students of the Faculty of Science and since it is a very wide discipline, its study requires the knowledge of Cell Biology, Histology, Physics, Chemistry, and Biochemistry, acquired in the first two years of the undergraduate training in Biological Sciences. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions focused on the study of basic physiological principles. During the course the use of simple methods of investigation of physiological parameters is also learned.

Specific skill
A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of plasma membrane function in the maintenance of homeostasis of eukaryotic cells, with references to its structure
- Knowledge and understanding of the functions of cell types that characterize the different tissues
- Knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, structural and functional organization of the individual organs
- Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of communication between cells, organs and systems, and of the integration of the functions of the different organs, with specific regard to mechanisms of regulation of functional homeostasis
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods of study in physiology

B) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of specific terminology
- Knowing how to identify the right procedures to solve Physiology questions
- Know how to recognize, in the functioning of the systems and physiological systems, the general chemical and biophysical laws that regulate the lifeless world

C) Making judgments
- Acquire critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the progress of Physiological knowledge and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments
- Learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
- Know how to communicate what has been learned during the oral examination

E) Learning ability
- learn the specific terminology
- ability to make logical connections between the topic covered
- ability to Identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The course aims to provide knowledge on the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that allow plants to live in
different environments. The course starts from the study of water and nutrient transports to reach important topics
such as photosynthesis, photoreceptors and plant hormones. The student will acquire knowledge on the interaction
between light, water and carbon dioxide. They will learn the biochemical mechanisms of photosynthesis in both light
reactions and Calvin cycle. He will be able to distinguish between the various photosynthetic metabolisms (C3, C4,
CAM) and to understand the molecular and physiological basis of the symbiotic interactions between plants and
mycorrhizal fungi or nitrogen fixing bacteria. The initial contents of the course are linked to those of the courses of
Cellular Biology, General and Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular and Botany Biology
and Plant Diversity. The course includes theoretical and methodological lectures, dedicated to techniques and
innovative approaches related to plant physiology and biotechnology.

Expected learning outcomes.

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the main physiological processes of the plant
-Knowledge of the mechanisms by which the plant is able to transform light energy into chemical energy;
-Knowledge of the mechanisms that allow the plant to recover mineral nutrients from the environment;
-Understanding the main plant metabolic pathways.
-Understanding the processes that plant exploits to react to environmental changes using hormones and
photoreceptors.
-Knowledge of basic techniques for the study of plant physiology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
The student will acquire the skills of:
-Use the correct scientific terminology;
-Predict the mechanisms by which the plant reacts to changes in environmental conditions;
-Use the simplest techniques at the base of plant biotechnologies by planning simple experimental protocols

C) Making judgements
-The student will acquire autonomy of judgment in the recognition of the molecular mechanism at the base of plant
physiology, for the adequacy of the various analytical techniques, for the interpretation of protocols of genetic
transformation and for the interpretation of experimental laboratory data.
-The student will learn to ask the right questions to himself for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge
learned.

D) Communication skills
The student will be stimulated to expose the concepts exposed in the classroom so that he can be able to correctly
communicate the knowledge learned.

E) Learning skills
The student will acquire a study method that allows the understanding of specific topics related to plant physiology.
He will acquire the ability to understand the specific terminology, logically connect the acquired knowledge obtaining
mastery of the relevant themes of plant physiology.

Educational objectives

The Cellular Biotechnology course is intended as an introduction to experimental systems based in animal and plant cell culture technologies, a main area of interest in diverse biotechnological fields. It will illustrate the characteristics and potentialities of animal and plant cell cultures, including the specific requirements for cell growth and the methodologies to evaluate cell proliferation and viability and to perform genetic manipulations of cultured cells. The knowledge and skills acquired through this course will become a reference frame for further studies dealing with biotechnological applications in the fields of biomedicine, pharmaceuticals and agronomy.

Educational objectives

The Animal Cells module is designed to provide the bases for implementing animal cell cultures, for the analysis of cell growth in culture, for understanding the diversity in nature and geometry of animal cell cultures and the methodologies to modify the genome of cultured animal cells, with the aim of developing animal cell lines of biomedical and biotechnological interest

The specific aims, including those in common and those peculiar to each module, are as follows:

Acquisition of knowledge and understanding (acquired knowledge) about:
- The main techniques and requirements for establishing animal and plant cell cultures, in terms of laboratory, environmental and feeding conditions for keeping cells in vitro, aimed to basic and applied research.
- The main techniques for genetic engineering to modify animal and plant cells in vitro and for obtaining genetically modified plants.
- The different types of animal cell cultures, including how to establish primary cultures, how to generate hybridoma cells for monoclonal antibody production and the particular characteristics and needs of stem cells.
The different phases of animal and plant cell growth, with a reference to the kinetic laws that describe them and to the methodologies to evaluate viability, proliferation and differentiation of cells in culture.
The different types of matrices for animal cell culture, and how these relate to tissue engineering.
The main productive systems based on vegetative plant propagation and the use of plants as bioreactors for chemical and pharmaceutical products.
The strategies for the improvement of plants with for agro-industrial applications.
- How to use biotechnological methods for ex situ preservation of plant germplasms.

Developing the ability to apply the knowledge and understanding (acquired skills) to:
- Use the correct terminology.
Consider the biological phenomena in a multi-scale and multi-factorial context.
Identify the right methodologies to solve basic problems dealing with cellular biotechnologies.
Identify and develop cell culture systems for research and biotechnological applications.
Analyse and solve, in original ways, novel scientific problems, including those that are not exactly within their own experience.
Analyse cell growth data relative to cultured cells.

Critical thinking
Acquire the ability to think critically, through the study of different methodologies and applications of animal and plant cell cultures, including those for the improvement of plants of agro-industrial and gardening interest.
To learn how to interrogate one’s own knowledge and so progress in the study of the discipline.
To critically analyse the application of animal cell cultures as an alternative to the use of experimental animals.
To critically analyse the technological aspects of therapies based on the use of stem cells and monoclonal antibodies.

Communication skills
- To learn to communicate the required knowledge during the oral examination.

E) Learning abilities
- To learn the specific terminology.
- To connect the new knowledge in a logical way.
- To identify the main notions in the arguments studied during the course.

Educational objectives

The Plant Cell module is designed to provide the bases for establishing in vitro cultures for the improvement of vegetal species, for understanding the best biotechnological strategies to create plants for agro-industrial purposes and for genetic engineering as a means to create genetically modified plants. Moreover, the module will provide the knowledge and abilities to use the plant cell as a factory for bioactive compounds of pharmacological, agri-food and cosmetic interest.

The specific aims, including those in common and those peculiar to each module, are as follows:

Acquisition of knowledge and understanding (acquired knowledge) about:
- The main techniques and requirements for establishing animal and plant cell cultures, in terms of laboratory, environmental and feeding conditions for keeping cells in vitro, aimed to basic and applied research.
- The main techniques for genetic engineering to modify animal and plant cells in vitro and for obtaining genetically modified plants.
- The different types of animal cell cultures, including how to establish primary cultures, how to generate hybridoma cells for monoclonal antibody production and the particular characteristics and needs of stem cells.
The different phases of animal and plant cell growth, with a reference to the kinetic laws that describe them and to the methodologies to evaluate viability, proliferation and differentiation of cells in culture.
The different types of matrices for animal cell culture, and how these relate to tissue engineering.
The main productive systems based on vegetative plant propagation and the use of plants as bioreactors for chemical and pharmaceutical products.
The strategies for the improvement of plants with for agro-industrial applications.
- How to use biotechnological methods for ex situ preservation of plant germplasms.

Developing the ability to apply the knowledge and understanding (acquired skills) to:
- Use the correct terminology.
Consider the biological phenomena in a multi-scale and multi-factorial context.
Identify the right methodologies to solve basic problems dealing with cellular biotechnologies.
Identify and develop cell culture systems for research and biotechnological applications.
Analyse and solve, in original ways, novel scientific problems, including those that are not exactly within their own experience.
Analyse cell growth data relative to cultured cells.

Critical thinking
Acquire the ability to think critically, through the study of different methodologies and applications of animal and plant cell cultures, including those for the improvement of plants of agro-industrial and gardening interest.
To learn how to interrogate one’s own knowledge and so progress in the study of the discipline.
To critically analyse the application of animal cell cultures as an alternative to the use of experimental animals.
To critically analyse the technological aspects of therapies based on the use of stem cells and monoclonal antibodies.

Communication skills
- To learn to communicate the required knowledge during the oral examination.

E) Learning abilities
- To learn the specific terminology.
- To connect the new knowledge in a logical way.
- To identify the main notions in the arguments studied during the course.

Educational objectives

Main objectives:
The course aims to study sectorial English language of Biological Sciences, through the reading and
listening of text/audio in their original language, alongside the study of the main morphosyntactic
structures of English language in order to improve oral and written comprehension skills. It is
required a B1 English Level according to the Common European Framework for foreign languages.
At the end of the course students should be able to use major English grammatical structures, have a
competent knowledge of English language and vocabulary used in specific scientific contexts, read
and listen specific scientific materials and be able to analyse them in detail.
Specific objectives:
A. Knowledge and understanding
- Sectorial English language of Biological Sciences knowledge
- Ability to understand specific terms and expression and English grammar within texts.
- Oral and written comprehension skills
B. Applying knowledge and understanding
- Ability to use the main morphosyntactic structures of English language and specific
vocabulary.
C. Making judgements
- Acquire the ability to express an opinion about the issues addressed during lessons through
the use of the main major English grammatical structures and specific vocabulary.
D. Communication skills
- Oral and written communication skills
-
E. Learning skills
- Learn the specific scientific vocabulary
- Identify the most relevant topics addressed during lessons.

Educational objectives

The final work is aimed at verifying communication skills and the ability in oral dissertation. Before a commitee the student will expose the result of an experimental or methodological activity , or a bibliographical research, under the supervision of a tutor.

Knoledge and Comprehension skills

The student acquires knowledge of a wide range of methodological procedures and instruments used in the biological research field

Authonomy in judgement

The studed acquires the following skills:

- Evaluation and data interpetation as a result of lab research or of experimental work
- Lab security matters

Communication skills

Written and oral communication both in italian and English language
Data processing and presentation
Dissemination and trasnmission of biological themes of actual interest

Ability to learn

Study of bibliographic and reference material
Study of specific Data banks or databases
Basic instruments for updating konwledge and lifelong learning paths

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

The students at the end of the course will be able:
A) Knowledge and understanding
To know the most common chemical elements, their properties and the way they behave in simple chemical reactions, being able to solve exercises on stoichiometric calculations and equilibrium reactions in solution;
To know the principal classes of substances (acids, bases and salts) and their behaviour in aqueous solutions by applying fundamental thermodynamic properties;
To understand qualitative and quantitative aspects of chemical transformations, as described in lessons and tutorials;
To use reference basic chemistry manuals and handbooks to understand more advanced courses.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
To apply the basic chemical knowledge to correlate the macroscopic properties and the elemental structure of matter at the level of chemical elements and simple molecules.

C) Making judgements
To critical think through the historical survey of the main discoveries in chemistry
To learn by questioning.

D) Communication skills
To communicate the acquired theoretical and the experimental knowledge.

E) Learning skills
To learn the specific terminology;
To make the logical connections between the topics covered;
To identify the most relevant topics.

Educational objectives

General skills
This course is designed to explore the fundamentals of cell biology and tissue structure. The main goal is for learners to understand how molecular and cellular components are organized, how cells work, what are the structure and functions of differentiated cells in human tissues. High school basics in chemistry and biochemistry are assumed knowledge for the course. General and Inorganic Chemistry contents (taught in the same semester) are advantageous. The course includes classroom lectures and learning laboratory sessions. During lab sessions, students learn how the histological techniques work, how the images observed with the traditional light microscope can be interpreted for recognizing structural features of the main tissues and how to use the Virtual microscope, a learning resource freely accessible over the Web, for reviewing histological material.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-knowing and understanding the chemical composition and the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
-knowing and understanding cellular activities through the functions of the specialized cellular components and organelles
-knowing and understanding structural and functional properties of differentiated cells of human tissues
-knowing and understanding how study methods work in cytology and histology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use the specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Cell Biology
- be able of identifying cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The teaching covers plant cytology, histology, anatomy, reproduction and systematics. The main objective of the teaching is to allow the students to acquire the fundamental knowledge about the structure and functions of plant cells, tissues and organs. Knowledge and understanding of classification methods. Concept of species, taxonomic ranks and nomenclature. Characters with taxonomic value of plant organisms (Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi). The teaching requires basic knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry acquired in high school, which is considered ascertained by passing the entrance test. The initial contents of the knowledge on the properties of atoms and molecules acquired during the teaching of General and Inorganic Chemistry (taught in the same semester). The teaching includes lectures and laboratory experiences, dedicated to learning basic histological techniques and the use of the optical microscope for observation of cells and tissues.

Specific objectives

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the structural peculiarities of the plant cell, prokaryotic and eukaryotic, with reference to Cyanobacteria, Algae, Briophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms and Fungi
-Knowledge and understanding of the various levels of plant organization: cellular, tissue, organ and organism -
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods to study plant cytology, histology and organography
- Knowledge and understanding of the classification of flowering plants with a phylogenetic approach

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- be able to use a specific terminology
- practicing problem solving in Plant Biology
- be able to identify plant cells and tissue types in the histological preparations.
-be able to identify and recognize the main morphological characters and use tools (dichotomous analytical keys) for the recognition of plants
C) Making judgements
- acquire the ability to recognize the interrelations between structure and function at different levels of organization, from the subcellular to the organ level
- learning by questioning
D) Communication skills
- be able to communicate what has been learned during the lectures, the laboratory experiences and during the study
E) Learning skills
- learn the specific terminology of the matter
- logically connect the acquired knowledge
- identify the most relevant topics of the matter

Educational objectives

General skills
The Physics course deals with basic principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism. The main aim of the course is to enable students to acquire knowledge of fundamental physical phenomena and - in particular - to describe them through physical laws and mathematical models. At the end of the course, a student should have acquired the ability to formalize a simple problem through the identification of the physical laws that characterize it, and to quantitatively compute the corresponding solution. The final objective is the acquisition of a rigorous scientific method that can be applied to any scientific topic the students will study in the future, going beyond simple problems in classical physics.

The course requires basic knowledge of analytical and numerical calculation and is delivered through classroom lectures, dedicated to the presentation of physical phenomena and the laws that describe them, and through exercise sessions aimed at consolidating the understanding of physical phenomena and their application to specific problems.
In addition, the course foresees a series of self-evaluation activities (quiz on the web-based platform elearning) and two intermediate written tests (the first one at the mid of the course and the second one at the end).
Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of classical mechanics, in particular the three Newton's laws and the laws of energy and momentum conservation;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics, with examples of applications in biology;
- have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the physical laws of electricity and magnetism, with examples of applications in biology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- can apply their knowledge to describe a physical phenomenon, first in a qualitative way and then in a quantitative way, discriminating the dominant effects from the secondary ones;
- have the ability to represent in a rigorous way a physical phenomenon through the identification of the physical laws that describe it;
- have the ability to identify the best method to find the solution of simple physical problems.

C) Making judgements
- have the ability to apply their knowledge and make their judgements through devising the solution to physical problems.

D) Communication skills
- can communicate their knowledge using a proper and rigorous scientific language.

E) Learning skills
- have learnt the specific terminology;
- have acquired the ability the logical connections between different topics presented in the course.

Educational objectives

General skills
The course provides students with a basic knowledge of Genetics aimed at understanding the rules of inheritance, their molecular bases, their main applications and their implications for evolution. In addition, the course will allow students to understand how genetic information is encoded at the DNA level and how the biochemical processes of the cell translate genetic information into a phenotype. The course aims to achieve these objectives through an analysis of the experimental evidences and their interpretation.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of the genetic material
-Knowledge and understanding of the rules of genetic transmission
-Knowledge and understanding of mutations and their implications
-Basic knowledge on the dynamics of genes in populations as well as on the genetic mechanisms underlying evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding

- usage of a proper genetic terminology
- identification of the right procedures to solve genetic problems
- formulation of hypotheses on the hereditary transmission of characters
- constructing and interpreting genetic maps and genealogical trees
- acquisition of conceptual tools for the genetic dissection of biological systems
- utilizing basic biostatistical methodologies for data analysis and hypothesis testing

C) Making judgements
- Acquisition of a critical judgment capacity on solving problems of formal genetics, through the study of the evolution of the gene concept from Mendel to the present day and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments.
- Addressing questions for the elaboration and deepening of the gained information

D) Communication skills
- communicating the genetic concepts acquired during the course with appropriate terminology

E) Learning skills
- logically connecting the acquired knowledge
- identification of the most relevant topics of the issues discussed during the course

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
Ability to self-questioning.
Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

E) Learning skills
Learning the specific terminology.
Ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered.
Ability to identify the most relevant topic

Educational objectives

General skills
This course concerns the applications of the fundamentals tools of calculus, probability and statistics to the solution of problems emerging within Natural Sciences, with a specific reference to Biological Sciences.
The main goal is for learners to understand the basic concepts of linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, discrete and continuous probability, as well as their application to the analysis of empirical data in biological sciences, in particular in the realm of genetics and evolution sciences.
The second part of the course (MMIB) is devoted to teach how to perform a statistical analysis of empirical data, also exploiting an appropriate software.
It is assumed that students entering the course know the basics of elementary mathematics from the high school. The fact that students actually have the mentioned pre-knowledge is certified by the entrance test or, when appropriate, by the OFA course and exam.

The course includes both lectures and exercise sessions, aiming to test the ability of the students to apply the theoretical knowledge to the solution of concrete problems. The second part of the course (MMIB) include as well some exercise sessions in the computer lab, where students apply their knowledge to the statistical analysis of biological data.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
• Knowledge and understanding of the basic notions of linear algebra (vectors, matrices, linear systems).
• Knowledge and understanding of the concept of limit and of the fundamentals of differential and integral calculus.
• Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of probability theory and of some tools of inferential and descriptive statistics.
• Knowledge and understanding of data mining and of the diagrammatic representation of row data.
• Knowledge and understanding of statistical tests for the analysis of empirical data.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
• Ability to properly use the specific terminology of mathematics and statistics.
• Ability to translate a concrete problem, appearing e.g. in the context of Biological Sciences, to a corresponding mathematical problem, by a suitable procedure involving approximation, abstraction, and modeling.
• Ability to use deductive reasoning in an abstract setting.
• Ability to recognize the mathematical tools and concepts appearing within other courses (specifically: Physics, Chemistry, Genetics, Ecology) and to properly use them.
• Ability to find the most convenient procedure to solve simple mathematical problems.
• Ability to use appropriate software to treat and analyze empirical data.

C) Making judgements
• Ability to autonomously judge the validity of a mathematical statement, through a critical analysis of the hypotheses and of the deductive steps leading to the proof of the statement itself.
• Ability to autonomously formulate counterexamples to mathematical statements, whenever one of the hypotheses is denied.
• Ability to self-questioning.
• Ability to autonomously evaluate the validity of a theoretical model, through suitable statistical tests on the empirical data collected in a laboratory.

D) Communication skills
• Ability to communicate what has been learned through written themes and oral exams.
• Ability to formulate a logically structured speech, clearly distinguishing between hypotheses, deduction and thesis.

Educational objectives

General objectives
At the end of the course the student will have acquired a descriptive knowledge of the body plans, of the adaptive and evolutionary biology of the main animal Phyla. The student will also be able to identify the main zoological groups at the class level.

- Specific objectives

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the morpho-functional knowledge of the body plans of the animal phyla, essential to the interpretation of the adaptations and the evolutionary history of the Metazoa.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
The student will acquire the diagnostic skills for the identification of animal groups and the critical skills for the selection of appropriate animal models for experimental biology.

Critical and judgmental capacities:
During the laboratory practices, the student will develop critical and judgmental skills by coping with museum and in vivo samples of the main animal phyla, through macroscopic and microscopic observation of morphologies and behaviors and drawings of anatomical parts.

Ability to communicate what has been learned:
Students, especially during the laboratory practices, are encouraged to interact with each other and with the teachers to implement practical activities (observation, identification, analysis and critical comment of the samples).

Ability to continue the study independently in the life:
The student will acquire the language of Zoology, in terms of both taxonomic nomenclature and descriptive nomenclature of morphologies and functional and evolutionary processes of animals. These skills will make the student able to face future biological studies, including experimental activities where animals are the model of study.

Educational objectives

General skills
To get a good knowledge of nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties, synthesis and reactivity of the main classes of organic compounds. The above knowledge ought to allow the student to program chemical reactions necessary for his work. In addition the knowledge of the organic chemistry ought to allow a better understanding of the biochemical reactions also of those involved in secondary metabolites biogenesis.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties of organic molecules.
- Knowledge of stereochemistry and understanding of the consequences related to molecular chirality in organic and organic chemistry.
- Knowledge of the reactivity of the different functional groups
- Basic knowledge of biomolecules, such as carbohydrates, amino acids and lipids

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- use of the nomenclature of organic compounds
- ability to apply the acquired knowledge to problems of organic chemistry

C) Making judgements
- critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments
- learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General objectives

The main objective is to allow the student to acquire knowledge of the structure and functioning of natural and anthropized
ecosystems, the interactions between species and between these and the physico-chemical environment. The student will be
able to understand: (1) the role of environmental factors in the numerical variations of populations and (2) the importance of
species interactions in the ecosystem development processes (ecological succession) and associated variations in energy
flows allocated to growth and maintenance. She/He will understand the role of man in the acceleration of environmental
changes. The student will be guided through examples of real case studies that will be objects of discussion in the classroom
to contribute to the development of skills in basic ecology.

Specific objectives -

Knowledge and understanding:
The student will know theories, mechanisms and models of ecological processes at different
scales of biological organization, from populations to ecosystems. She/He will understand the role of environmental factors
in the numerical variations of populations and the importance of interactions between species in ecosystem development
processes. She/He will understand the meaning of sustainability of the dynamics of natural populations including human
populations.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding:
At the end of the course the student will master the theories of ecology and
the experiences that led to their formulation. The student will know how to define the different aspects of the same ecological
problem. She/He will be able to apply graphic models to interactions between species and to ecological successions.

Making judgments:
The student will be able to interpret and compare literature data on the same topic. She/He will know
how to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the acquired knowledge. These goals will be achieved through a
strong interactivity between the teacher and the student and between students on the topics covered.

Communication skills:
During the lessons, the student will be stimulated to interact with the teacher and the class and to
communicate what she/he has learned through the discussion of fundamental topics of ecology. Communication skills will be
evaluated during the oral exam.

Learning skills:
The student will know the basic principles of ecology and the most important contributions from other
disciplines of biology, physics, chemistry and mathematics to ecological theories, using an evolutionary key and learning the
appropriate terminology. This will allow the student during her/his career not to limit to the observation and description of
natural phenomena as separate events but to logically link the acquired knowledge by identifying the underlying mechanisms
and the cause / effect relationship.

Educational objectives

General skills.

At the end of the course and after passing the exam, the student will have acquired the knowledge and skills in the areas below. In general, the student will be able to: describe the structure and function of the main classes of biological macromolecules; explain the main metabolic pathways in terms of chemical reactions, recognizing and reproducing the structures of the metabolites; explain the principles and applications of the most common biochemical methodologies. On the basis of the acquired knowledge, the student will have the ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view, describing the molecular bases of life in terms of structures and chemical reactions. Students' critical and judgmental skills will be developed through excercise classes, in which videos will be projected and numerical exercises carried out, and through laboratory experiences. In the latter, students will apply the theoretical concepts studied in class, performing and interpreting experiments that, in the future, they will be able to independently reproduce. Communication skills will also be exercised during the theoretical lessons, which include moments of open discussion. In the future, the student will be able to count on the knowledge and skills just described for the understanding of other disciplines and for the work in analysis and research laboratories.

Specific skills.

a) knowledge and ability to understand
- Knowledge and understanding of the relationship between structure and function of the main classes of macromolecules and biological molecules;
- understanding of metabolism chemical logic;
- knowledge of the main metabolic pathways and of their single reactions;
- understanding of the principles and phenomena underlying the main biochemical methodologies;

b) ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- ability to interpret and explain biological phenomena from a biochemical point of view;
- ability to apply appropriate techniques to specific experimental problems;

c) autonomy of judgment
- be able to solve biochemical problems, also through a quantitative approach;
- be able to identify biological and biomedical phenomena that can be explained from a biochemical point of view;
- be able to select and evaluate the most appropriate techniques to solve a specific experimental problem;

d) communication skills
- be able to illustrate and explain biochemical phenomena with appropriate terms and with logical rigor;
- be able to draw the structure of the main metabolites and of biomolecules in general;
- be able to describe how the main biochemical techniques work;

e) learning ability
- acquisition of the fundamentals and cognitive tools to continue independently in the study of biochemistry;
- acquisition of the basic knowledge necessary to progress autonomously in other biological disciplines;
- ability to learn quickly and apply biochemical techniques in laboratory working environments;

Educational objectives

General skills The course regards the Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates. The main objective is to introduce the students to the "organism" level of Biological organization taking as a model the taxon of Vertebrates. The students will be introduced to the systematics and evolutionary history of Vertebrates and will deepen the Comparative Anatomy of some organic systems. The course requires basic knowledge of Cellular Biology, Histology and Embryology. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions. The latter are dedicated to the macroscopic examination and the dissection of Vertebrates (cartilaginous fish, bony fish, bird), to the observation, with adaptive and evolutionary interpretation, of the skull. At the end of the course there will be a visit to the Museum of Comparative Anatomy (Sapienza University) to complete the knowledge acquired during the course.

Specific skills

A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge and understanding of the systematics and evolution of Vertebrates, at the level of Order.
- Knowledge and understanding of the structure, function and evolution of some organic systems in the various classes of vertebrates with particular reference to their evolution in the transition from the aquatic environment to that of land and air: integumentary system; skeletal system; digestive system; respiratory System; circulatory system; nervous system (outline); sensory organs.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- knowing how to use specific terminology.
- knowing how to interpret a phylogenetic tree.
- be able to recognize, by observing the external morphology, the members of the main orders of vertebrates.
- to be able to interpret, in a functional and evolutionary key, the morphology of the structures related to the systems included in the program.

C) Making judgements
Through the lectures and the practical exercises the student will learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned. In particular, he will be able to know if he correctly identified a vertebrate at the order level on the basis of external morphology. Furthermore, it will be able to evaluate whether the study of a specific anatomical structure can be considered complete (i.e., if its Form, Function and Evolution have been thoroughly studied).

D) Communication skills
-be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam

E) Learning skills
- learning the specific terminology
- be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered
- be able to identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

The course deals with the genetic material, the flow of genetic information and the mechanisms that control maintenance, variability and regulation of this flow. Main objective of the course is to provide the students a basic knowledge on biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, Proteins) their recognition and interaction, on the processes of transmission, conservation and expression of the genetic material and of their regulation. Prerequisite of the course is therefore a basic knowledge of genetics, chemistry , biochemistry, cell biology and thermodynamics.

A) Knowledge acquired
Students will be able to discuss problems on the macromolecules involved in the storage and frlow of genetic information, on the mechanisms that ensure its transmission and maintenance, and on the regulation of its flow. In addition, they will be updated on the main techniques and approaches of molecular biology and recombinant DNA.

B) General skills
Students will be able to pursue a research career in basic or applied biology and biomedicine in Italy and abroad; to exploit their molecular biology knowledge to critically analyse the impact of biotechnologies, gene therapy, gene editing on society and the environment; to pursue a (biology) teaching career.

C) Making judgments
Students will be able to collect and interpret scientific data related to the basic experiments of molecular biology;

D) Communication skills
Students will be able to communicate information, ideas, and solutions to both specialists and non-interlocutors.

E) Learning skills
Students will be able to develop the necessary skills to continue with molecular studies with an excellent degree of autonomy

Educational objectives

General skills
The course is focused on the study of embryology and the mechanisms that control the different phases of embryogenesis and cell differentiation and on the gametogenesis and fertilization processes. The main aims of the course is to acquire the basic knowledge of the various phases of embryogenesis with a comparative view on different animal models (invertebrates and vertebrates) and of the main mechanisms that control cell fate and specification/differentiation, the maturation of gametes and the mechanisms of fertilization. The course requires established knowledge of cell biology and the basic mechanisms of molecular biology. The course includes lessons and laboratory sessions, dedicated to the observation and recognition of embryos of different animal models and the observation of histological sections of embryos at various developmental stages. The student should have basic knowledge of the microscope and the main histological techniques. The course includes at the end 2-3 bio-applicative seminars with the aim to discuss topics such as animal cloning, the use of adult stem cells and iPS in regenerative medicine, assisted fertilization

Specific skills

Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of the stages of embryogenesis and of the main events characterizing the cell fate and differentiation
-Knowledge and understanding of the various stages of embryo development with a comparative vision
-Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms that control the cell fate
- Knowledge and understanding of the germ line formation and the gametes maturation.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
-know how to use the appropriate terminology
- recognize the various phases of embryogenesis
- recognize the various embryos and the main tissues and organs in development both in whole embryos and in histological sections

C)Autonomy of judgment
- acquiring critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the developmental biology knowledge and of the evolution of the different methodologies used starting from experimental embryology to the recent molecular biology
- evaluation of the knowledge learned through self-assessment tests and through an exception test

D) Communication skills
-Describe what has been learned through the oral test using scientific language properties and knowing how to integrate, discuss and analyze in a critical way what has been learned

E) Learning skills
- learn the appropriate terminology
- connect and integrate the acquired knowledge in a logical way
- identify the most relevant topics and their potential applicability to current problems.

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Structure of the prokaryotic cell (Bacteria and Archea) and biosynthesis of the cell components.
- Organization of the bacterial genome and role of the mobile genetic elements
- Procedures for microbial growth and for microbial growth control
- Processes of bacterial colonization of the host and of the environment
- Mechanisms of action of antibiotics and emergence of antibiotic resistance

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from bacteria and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
Today’s view of Microbiology has gone far beyond the simple idea of microbes as causative agents of a diversified spectrum of human pathologies. The current opinion considers microorganisms mainly as vital components of eukaryotic organisms, major constituents of ecosystems, and key mediators in productive and industrial processes. Our course in Microbiology and Virology is therefore intended to provide students with the knowledge clues required to understand the dual nature of the microbial world. The focus is on progressively integrating specific notions about bacterial and viral structures, their functional relationships, and the organization and evolution of genomes into a logical learning path. This will secure the understanding of the molecular mechanisms which regulate the interaction of microorganisms with both biotic and abiotic environments. Students will thus acquire the competences to assess the role of microorganisms in biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental area.

Specific skills
A) Knowledge and understanding. The student will have acquired knowledge and understanding

- Organization of viral genomes and multiplication strategies of viruses
- Virus-host cell interactions and genetic mechanisms of virus evolution

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
- Understanding the key role played by microrganisms in the interactions with the host and the environment.
- Understanding the biological processes of multicellular organisms banking on the knowledge acquired from the microrganisms

C) Making judgments
- Being able to analyze in a thoughtful and informed manner the information on the microbes world
- Making informed decisions on the use of products derived from viruses and on the importance of vaccinations

D) Communication skills
- Being able to communicate to the public the notions learned on the microbe world in a correct and informed manner
- Being able to fully interpret any microorganisms-associated phenomena from both a personal and social point of view.

E) Learning skills
-be able to make logical connection among different topics covered
-learning the specific terminology

Educational objectives

General skills
General Physiology is aimed at providing in-depth knowledge on the molecular and cellular principles that regulate the normal functions of organs and systems that characterize a complex living organism. The course includes an initial part that explores more closely themes of cellular physiology, and then addresses the study of the functions of individual organs and mechanisms of mutual interaction between them, on the basis of the homeostatic balance on which functions a living organism. The study of Physiology is fundamental for the professional training of students of the Faculty of Science and since it is a very wide discipline, its study requires the knowledge of Cell Biology, Histology, Physics, Chemistry, and Biochemistry, acquired in the first two years of the undergraduate training in Biological Sciences. The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions focused on the study of basic physiological principles. During the course the use of simple methods of investigation of physiological parameters is also learned.

Specific skill
A) Knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of plasma membrane function in the maintenance of homeostasis of eukaryotic cells, with references to its structure
- Knowledge and understanding of the functions of cell types that characterize the different tissues
- Knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, structural and functional organization of the individual organs
- Knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of communication between cells, organs and systems, and of the integration of the functions of the different organs, with specific regard to mechanisms of regulation of functional homeostasis
- Knowledge and understanding of the main methods of study in physiology

B) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding
- Knowledge of specific terminology
- Knowing how to identify the right procedures to solve Physiology questions
- Know how to recognize, in the functioning of the systems and physiological systems, the general chemical and biophysical laws that regulate the lifeless world

C) Making judgments
- Acquire critical judgment skills, through the historical study of the progress of Physiological knowledge and the detailed analysis of some fundamental experiments
- Learning by questioning

D) Communication skills
- Know how to communicate what has been learned during the oral examination

E) Learning ability
- learn the specific terminology
- ability to make logical connections between the topic covered
- ability to Identify the most relevant topics

Educational objectives

General skills
The course aims to provide knowledge on the physiological and biochemical mechanisms that allow plants to live in
different environments. The course starts from the study of water and nutrient transports to reach important topics
such as photosynthesis, photoreceptors and plant hormones. The student will acquire knowledge on the interaction
between light, water and carbon dioxide. They will learn the biochemical mechanisms of photosynthesis in both light
reactions and Calvin cycle. He will be able to distinguish between the various photosynthetic metabolisms (C3, C4,
CAM) and to understand the molecular and physiological basis of the symbiotic interactions between plants and
mycorrhizal fungi or nitrogen fixing bacteria. The initial contents of the course are linked to those of the courses of
Cellular Biology, General and Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular and Botany Biology
and Plant Diversity. The course includes theoretical and methodological lectures, dedicated to techniques and
innovative approaches related to plant physiology and biotechnology.

Expected learning outcomes.

A) Knowledge and understanding
-Knowledge of the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the main physiological processes of the plant
-Knowledge of the mechanisms by which the plant is able to transform light energy into chemical energy;
-Knowledge of the mechanisms that allow the plant to recover mineral nutrients from the environment;
-Understanding the main plant metabolic pathways.
-Understanding the processes that plant exploits to react to environmental changes using hormones and
photoreceptors.
-Knowledge of basic techniques for the study of plant physiology.

B) Applying knowledge and understanding
The student will acquire the skills of:
-Use the correct scientific terminology;
-Predict the mechanisms by which the plant reacts to changes in environmental conditions;
-Use the simplest techniques at the base of plant biotechnologies by planning simple experimental protocols

C) Making judgements
-The student will acquire autonomy of judgment in the recognition of the molecular mechanism at the base of plant
physiology, for the adequacy of the various analytical techniques, for the interpretation of protocols of genetic
transformation and for the interpretation of experimental laboratory data.
-The student will learn to ask the right questions to himself for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge
learned.

D) Communication skills
The student will be stimulated to expose the concepts exposed in the classroom so that he can be able to correctly
communicate the knowledge learned.

E) Learning skills
The student will acquire a study method that allows the understanding of specific topics related to plant physiology.
He will acquire the ability to understand the specific terminology, logically connect the acquired knowledge obtaining
mastery of the relevant themes of plant physiology.

Educational objectives

Main objectives:
The course aims to study sectorial English language of Biological Sciences, through the reading and
listening of text/audio in their original language, alongside the study of the main morphosyntactic
structures of English language in order to improve oral and written comprehension skills. It is
required a B1 English Level according to the Common European Framework for foreign languages.
At the end of the course students should be able to use major English grammatical structures, have a
competent knowledge of English language and vocabulary used in specific scientific contexts, read
and listen specific scientific materials and be able to analyse them in detail.
Specific objectives:
A. Knowledge and understanding
- Sectorial English language of Biological Sciences knowledge
- Ability to understand specific terms and expression and English grammar within texts.
- Oral and written comprehension skills
B. Applying knowledge and understanding
- Ability to use the main morphosyntactic structures of English language and specific
vocabulary.
C. Making judgements
- Acquire the ability to express an opinion about the issues addressed during lessons through
the use of the main major English grammatical structures and specific vocabulary.
D. Communication skills
- Oral and written communication skills
-
E. Learning skills
- Learn the specific scientific vocabulary
- Identify the most relevant topics addressed during lessons.

Educational objectives

The final work is aimed at verifying communication skills and the ability in oral dissertation. Before a commitee the student will expose the result of an experimental or methodological activity , or a bibliographical research, under the supervision of a tutor.

Knoledge and Comprehension skills

The student acquires knowledge of a wide range of methodological procedures and instruments used in the biological research field

Authonomy in judgement

The studed acquires the following skills:

- Evaluation and data interpetation as a result of lab research or of experimental work
- Lab security matters

Communication skills

Written and oral communication both in italian and English language
Data processing and presentation
Dissemination and trasnmission of biological themes of actual interest

Ability to learn

Study of bibliographic and reference material
Study of specific Data banks or databases
Basic instruments for updating konwledge and lifelong learning paths