BIOL 491: Computational Biology CURE.
A course-based undergraduate research experience in computational, comparative biology. We work on open questions in chromosome evolution, build phylogenies from scratch, and analyze real datasets using the same tools we use in the lab.
Course information
Course number: BIOL 491
Course title: Computational Biology CURE
Time: W 12:30–2:30
Location: HELD 214
Credit hours: 3
Instructor: Heath Blackmon (blackmon@tamu.edu)
Office: BSBW 425
Office hours: TR 9:30–10:30, or by appointment
What is a CURE?
CURE stands for Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience. In a traditional lab course, students follow fixed recipes where the answer is already known. In a CURE, students work on questions the field has not yet answered, produce results that could contribute to published science, and see how research actually happens, with all of its creativity, surprises, and dead ends.
Our focus: chromosome evolution
We use comparative methods to investigate how chromosomes evolve across clades. Chromosome number and structure vary widely across life and shape how we understand genome organization, speciation, and evolution. In this course we build phylogenies, assemble datasets, and apply computational tools to test evolutionary hypotheses. Along the way we see how shared ancestry creates non-independence among species, and why specialized statistical approaches are essential for valid inference.
How the course works
- Hands-on research. Real datasets and phylogenies, not canned exercises.
- Active learning. Short concept talks blend with coding sessions, simulations, and discussion.
- Comparative methods. Phylogenetic independent contrasts, ancestral state reconstruction, and model-based tests of trait evolution.
- Computational emphasis. R and AI-assisted workflows for cleaning data, running analyses, and producing clear visualizations.
- Collaborative atmosphere. Share results, troubleshoot together, present findings.
- Real outcomes. Results suitable for a poster, a talk, or a manuscript.
What you'll gain
- Experience thinking and working like an evolutionary biologist.
- Confidence with computational tools for comparative analysis.
- Deeper insight into the complexity of chromosome evolution.
- Teamwork and communication skills built through collaboration.
- Opportunities to contribute to ongoing research questions in the lab.
- A path into the research group if you want to continue the work.
A CURE is not a class that rehearses research. It is research, done in a classroom.