Biochemistry of Macromolecules This course is an introduction to biochemistry that focuses on the chemical and physical properties of amino acids, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. Specific topics include the structure and function of proteins, enzyme mechanisms and kinetics, how carbohydrates and lipids contribute to vital cellular and organismal functions, and informational biochemistry (DNA, RNA, and specific enzymes and processes leading to the production of regulatory RNA and proteins). Specific topics from the primary literature will be explored to illustrate how particular techniques and experimental approaches are used to gain a new understanding of biochemistry and molecular biology.

Biochemistry of Metabolism A living organism requires thousands of coordinated individual chemical reactions for life.  In this course we will survey the major integrated metabolic pathways of living cells and whole organisms, with particular attention to enzyme mechanisms, as well as the regulation, and integration of metabolism from the molecular to the whole organism level. The synthesis and degradation of carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids, and nucleotides are investigated, along with the mechanisms of energy flow and cell-to-cell communication.   While common metabolic processes are emphasized, unique aspects of metabolism that permit cells to function in unusual niches will also be considered.  Mechanistic and regulatory aspects of metabolic processes will be reinforced through an investigation of inborn errors and organic defects that lead to disease.

Exercise Biochemistry and the Limits of Human Endurance In this course we will investigate the biochemical, biological, genetic, and psychological factors associated with athletic performance.  We will begin by discussing the origins of exercise physiology in the early 1900’s, introducing topics such as metabolic fuels and their utilization, oxygen and water, metabolism, and physiological adaptations to training.  Special attention will be paid to muscle (power) and pulmonary organization and function (VO2 max),  and how psychology and the brain (the master regulator) contribute to achieve maximum performance.  We will bring these topics to the present by reading and discussing papers from the popular and primary literature.   Films and guest lectures by experts will provide a personal perspective.  The seminar will conclude by considering controversies such as performance enhancing drugs and sex determination.

Seminar in Chemical Research This seminar provides students with experiences to support the preparation of a senior thesis. As the course involves participation in a mentored laboratory project and the intent to complete a senior thesis, students must make arrangements to work with a faculty advisor prior to gaining approval for course registration. The classroom portion of this seminar focuses on reading the scientific literature, giving effective oral presentations, and writing the thesis introduction. Particular emphasis will be given to computer and technology issues related to oral and written presentations. Participation will normally be followed by registration for CHEM 0500 or CHEM 0700 (winter term and spring).

Exercise Biochemistry and the Limits of Human Endurance In this course we will investigate the biochemical, biological, genetic, and psychological factors associated with athletic performance.  We will discuss the origins of exercise physiology in the early 1900’s, introducing topics such as metabolic fuels and their utilization, oxygen and water, and physiological adaptations to training.  Special attention will be paid to muscle (power), pulmonary organization and function (VO2 max),  and how psychology and the brain (the master regulator) contribute to achieve maximum performance.  We will also read and discuss recent papers from popular and primary literature.   Films and guest lectures by experts and accomplished endurance athletes will provide a personal perspective.  Laboratory and training room sessions will put themes into practice. We will also consider controversies such as performance enhancing drugs and sex determination.

Bob Cluss

Reviews and ratings for Bob Cluss at Middlebury College.Bob Cluss teaches Biochemistry of Macromolecules, Biochemistry Of Metabolism, Exercise Biochemistry and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Bob Cluss good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Bob is the absolute best. He made everything so understandable and is so approachable. Very accommodating to individual needs. Very funny and cares deeply about students. He really adores the subject matter.

Bob is an awesome professor with a real enthusiasm for biochemistry. Although he expects a lot from his students, he keeps his lectures light hearted and interesting. His exams really push you to know the material well, and be able to expand upon content, but he is a fair grader. Would highly recommend taking biochem with him!

Bob is very enthusiastic about chemistry and for people without much background in chemistry, this may make the lecture parts of the course a bit hard to understand. The good thing is though, he doesn't test you on the hard science (at least in the FYS version of this course) so all you really need to do well in this course is keep up with the readings.