Biomolecules of Life - BIOS 10016 Lecture 1

Vocabulary and administrative flashcards for BIOS 10016: Biomolecules of Life, covering course policy, grading, and introductory biochemical concepts.

Biochemistry

The branch of science concerned with the chemical and physico-chemical processes and substances which occur within living organisms.

Structural Complementarity

A defining concept of Biochemistry describing how molecules fit together based on their shapes.

Structure-Function Relationship

The fundamental concept in biochemistry that the physical structure of a molecule determines its biological function.

Biochemistry: Free For All

The open-source biochemistry textbook assigned for the course.

Poll Everywhere

An interactive student response system used for in-class quizzing and polling, where 85% participation is required for full credit.

Gradescope

The platform used for the submission of lab worksheets, the podcast assignment, and final project write-ups, as well as the return of exams.

Podcast Assignment

An individual assignment requiring a 5–7 minute audio recording in .mp3 or .wav format investigating a specific biomolecule-related claim.

Final Project

A group project (4–5 people) to create a physical prototype of a board game that teaches players about a disease or biological process.

Lowry Method

A technique used for protein concentration determination, as illustrated in the sample laboratory graphs.

Carbon

The atom considered ideal for forming the skeleton of biomolecules.

PyMOL + AlphaFold

Specific molecular modeling software tools utilized in the lab on June 18, 2026.

Lab Safety PPE

Mandatory personal protective equipment including closed-toed shoes, long pants, safety eyewear, and lab coats.

Exam Electronics Policy

A policy with zero tolerance where cellular phones, laptops, tablets, or smartwatches out during an exam results in a grade of zero.

Alex Muir, Andrea Piunti, and Margaret Gardel

The three guest speakers for the Lunchtime Research Seminars scheduled during the course.

Junior Holiday (Juneteenth)

An observed holiday on 6/19/26 where no classes are held.

Lab Worksheets Penalty

A 50% penalty is applied for submissions 1 day late, and no credit is given for submissions more than 1 day late.