BIOL 4850Z 01: Problems Muscle Function

BIOL 4850Z - Problems Muscle Function

Fall 2026 Syllabus, Section 01, CRN 43628,

Credit hours: 3

Course Meeting Times

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Instructor

Michael Butcher

Email: mtbutcher@ysu.edu

Public Instructor Information

Instructor Title: Professor of Zoology

Instructor Professional Qualifications: 

Postdoctoral Fellow (Bone Biomechanics), Clemson University
Ph. D., Zoology (Muscle Biomechanics), University of Calgary/Florida State University
M.S., Biology (Functional Morphology), Wake Forest University 

Instructor Office Location: 4013 Ward Beecher Science Hall; Laboratory 4011 WBSH

Instructor Office Phone: x2195

Private Instructor Information

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Course Description

4850Z. Problems Muscle Function. Special biological problems for which materials and equipment are available and for which the student is qualified. Prereq.: Senior standing or consent of the chairperson. 1-3 s.h.

Problems in Muscle Function is an independent study 'course' designed to engage students with research experience. Laboratory skills and research tools in the field of limb muscle morphology and biomechanics will be acquired through training and participation in ongoing research projects in the laboratory of the professor. Several hours of lab work are expected weekly from approved students. Research objectives and responsibilities are at the discretion of the professor.

Course Readings

Group Title Author ISBN
Optional Primary Literature

There is no textbook for this 'course'. However, the professor will assign readings of the primary scientific literature to help familiarize students with laboratory techniques and research objectives. 

The course readings are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, research developments, current events, and/or to ensure better learning.  

Additional Course Materials

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Course Learning Outcomes/Objectives/Goals

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How to Succeed in This Course

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Attendance Expectations

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Late Work Submission Policy

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Additional Course Expectations

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Artificial Intelligence Policy Statement

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Assignments/Assessments

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Grading and Grading Scale

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University Policies

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Schedule of Topics and Assignments

Week of Proposed Topic Due/To Prepare for Class
8/24 Lab Orientation
Discussion of Research Objectives
8/31 Skills Training
9/7 Skills Training
9/14 Lab Work
9/21 Lab Work
9/28 Lab Work
10/5 Lab Work
10/12 Mid-Term Progress Report
10/19 Lab Work
10/26 Lab Work
11/2 Lab Work
11/9 Lab Work
11/16 Lab Work
11/30 Final Progress Report
Final Evaluations of Research Objectives

The course schedule, policies, procedures, and assignments in this course are subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances, by mutual agreement, and/or to ensure better learning. 

Additional Information

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