Developmental Biology Have you ever wondered how an embryo develops from a simple fertilized egg to a complex adult? This course explores this question, examining the preparation and initiation of development (gametogenesis, fertilization, cleavages, and gastrulation), the formation of embryonic structure (morphogenesis), the creation of embryonic pattern (pattern formation), and the control of gene expression during embryogenesis. In a semester when a laboratory section is offered, students will design and carry out experiments at the cutting edge of developmental biology, incorporating modern cellular, molecular, and genetic techniques with classical embryological approaches. Fundamental mysteries of development will be investigated in model organisms that best illustrate each process. This course does not have a lab associated with it every semester.

Topics in Reproduction Reproduction: all life on earth depends on it. In this course we will examine the fundamentals of reproduction and explore reproductive function across the life course. Topics will include fertility, infertility, pregnancy, fetal life, birth, and the neonatal period. We will consider the wide range of factors that can affect reproductive function, along with the many far-reaching impacts of reproduction. Through critical review of the primary literature, writing, presentations, and discussions, students will gain an understanding of key topics in reproduction.

Cell Biology and Genetics In this introduction to modern cellular, genetic, and molecular biology we will explore life science concepts with an emphasis on their integral nature and evolutionary relationships.  Topics covered will include cell membrane structure and function, metabolism, cell motility and division, genome structure and replication, the regulation of gene expression and protein production, genotype to phenotype relationship, and basic principles of inheritance.  Major concepts will be illustrated using a broad range of examples from plants, animals, and microorganisms.  Current topics in biology will be integrated into the course as they arise.

Catherine Combelles

Reviews and ratings for Catherine Combelles at Middlebury College.Catherine Combelles teaches Developmental Biology, Topics in Reproduction, Cell Biology and Genetics and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Catherine Combelles good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

This course in ungraded but still lectures and readings are still engaging. Catherine is an awesome professor and I also really enjoyed the projects that we complete in class. She is very supportive and loves to chat with students true goat. 

Combelles was very enthusiastic about the topic which made it super enjoyable to learn about the material. While the order of material we learned was sometimes confusing, she was excellent at clarifying any uncertainties. Also, the projects and group work were both fun and very useful in solidifying learning.

It is clear that Professor Combelles is very passionate about this topic. I originally took the course because other Biology classes were full, but I ended up finding the content to be highly engaging and valuable.