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Martha Merrow
and
Till Roenneberg
This course is geared towards starting undergraduate students. A solid background in biology will be helpful but not absolutely essential. The material will be of interest to those who are pursuing a career in any of the life sciences as well as anyone who has run up against their biological clock.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/06ksrp/circadian
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What's inside
Syllabus
WEEK 1
Introduction to 'chronobiology'. What sorts of rhythms are observed in nature? Most of the lecture will be spent on describing daily or circadian rhythms in organisms from bacteria to man.
Read more
Syllabus
WEEK 1
Introduction to 'chronobiology'. What sorts of rhythms are observed in nature? Most of the lecture will be spent on describing daily or circadian rhythms in organisms from bacteria to man.
Read more
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Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Provides a good foundation for students working towards a degree or career in a life sciences field
Builds a baseline understanding of circadian rhythms and their impact on living organisms
Examines the relationship between sleep and the circadian clock
Covers the latest scientific research on circadian rhythms
Taught by experienced instructors with extensive knowledge of chronobiology
Requires a solid science background, with biology preferred
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Reviews summary
Circadian rhythms across life and health
Based on the course description and syllabus, this course appears to offer a comprehensive introduction to circadian rhythms. It broadly covers how daily rhythms structure life across diverse organisms, from bacteria to humans, and explores molecular mechanisms governing these clocks. While a biology background is suggested as helpful, the course highlights the real-world relevance of circadian clocks, linking them to everyday phenomena like sleep and jet lag, as well as their impact on metabolism and human health and pathology. This focus on applicability makes it relevant for both aspiring life scientists and those interested in personal well-being.
Prior biology knowledge recommended but not essential.
"I understand that having some biology background might make the material easier."
"The course notes that a biology background is helpful, suggesting some concepts might be advanced."
"I should be prepared for potentially complex biological details, especially in the molecular sections."
Explores the clock's inner molecular workings.
"I look forward to understanding the molecular basis of how biological clocks keep time."
"I hope to grasp the details of the molecular machinery discussed in week 3."
"Learning the underlying molecular mechanisms is a key interest for me."
Covers clocks across diverse organisms.
"I expect to learn about circadian rhythms in everything from simple organisms to complex ones."
"I anticipate seeing how biological clocks function across different life forms."
"The course structure suggests a wide-ranging look at rhythms in nature."
Links circadian rhythms to daily life & health.
"I'm most interested in how circadian rhythms affect sleep and jet lag in my own life."
"Understanding the connection between the clock, health, and disease seems very practical."
"I want to learn how my lifestyle impacts my biological clock and well-being."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Circadian clocks: how rhythms structure life with these
activities:
Organize your course materials
Show steps
Organizing your course materials will help you to stay on top of your studies and to find the information you need quickly and easily.
Browse courses on
Organization
Show steps
-
Gather your course materials
-
Sort your materials into categories
-
Create a system for organizing your materials
Study "The Clocks That Make Us"
Show steps
This book will provide you with a comprehensive and accessible review of the science of chronobiology and the impact of circadian rhythms on our lives.
View
Rhythms of Life: The Biological Clocks that...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the first chapter
-
Take notes on the key concepts
-
Complete the practice questions at the end of the chapter
Watch videos on circadian rhythms
Show steps
Watching videos on circadian rhythms will help you to visualize the concepts and principles discussed in the course.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
-
Search for videos on circadian rhythms
-
Watch the videos and take notes
-
Summarize the key points of the videos
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve circadian rhythm problems
Show steps
Solving problems related to circadian rhythms will help you to understand the concepts and principles discussed in the course.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
-
Identify the key variables and concepts in the problem
-
Develop a strategy for solving the problem
-
Execute your strategy and solve the problem
-
Check your answer
Discuss circadian rhythms with classmates
Show steps
Discussing circadian rhythms with classmates will help you to learn from others and to clarify your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
-
Find a study partner or group
-
Schedule a time to meet
-
Discuss the course material
-
Share your insights and perspectives
Create a collection of resources on circadian rhythms
Show steps
Creating a collection of resources on circadian rhythms will help you to organize your learning and to find the information you need quickly and easily.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
-
Gather resources on circadian rhythms
-
Organize your resources into a collection
-
Share your collection with others
Write a blog post on circadian rhythms
Show steps
Writing a blog post on circadian rhythms will help you to synthesize your understanding of the course material and communicate it to others.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
-
Choose a topic for your blog post
-
Research your topic
-
Write a draft of your blog post
-
Edit and revise your blog post
-
Publish your blog post
Organize your course materials
Show steps
Organizing your course materials will help you to stay on top of your studies and to find the information you need quickly and easily.
Browse courses on
Organization
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your course materials
- Sort your materials into categories
- Create a system for organizing your materials
Study "The Clocks That Make Us"
Show steps
This book will provide you with a comprehensive and accessible review of the science of chronobiology and the impact of circadian rhythms on our lives.
View
Rhythms of Life: The Biological Clocks that...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the first chapter
- Take notes on the key concepts
- Complete the practice questions at the end of the chapter
Watch videos on circadian rhythms
Show steps
Watching videos on circadian rhythms will help you to visualize the concepts and principles discussed in the course.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for videos on circadian rhythms
- Watch the videos and take notes
- Summarize the key points of the videos
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve circadian rhythm problems
Show steps
Solving problems related to circadian rhythms will help you to understand the concepts and principles discussed in the course.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the key variables and concepts in the problem
- Develop a strategy for solving the problem
- Execute your strategy and solve the problem
- Check your answer
Discuss circadian rhythms with classmates
Show steps
Discussing circadian rhythms with classmates will help you to learn from others and to clarify your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study partner or group
- Schedule a time to meet
- Discuss the course material
- Share your insights and perspectives
Create a collection of resources on circadian rhythms
Show steps
Creating a collection of resources on circadian rhythms will help you to organize your learning and to find the information you need quickly and easily.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather resources on circadian rhythms
- Organize your resources into a collection
- Share your collection with others
Write a blog post on circadian rhythms
Show steps
Writing a blog post on circadian rhythms will help you to synthesize your understanding of the course material and communicate it to others.
Browse courses on
Circadian Rhythms
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic for your blog post
- Research your topic
- Write a draft of your blog post
- Edit and revise your blog post
- Publish your blog post
Career center
Learners who complete Circadian clocks: how rhythms structure life will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Chronobiologist
Chronobiologist
Chronobiologists research the causes and effects of biological rhythms to understand the functioning of living organisms and develop treatments for sleep disorders and other conditions caused by desynchronized body rhythms. As a new Chronobiologist, understanding the information taught in this course will be essential for your work. You will learn fundamentals of chronobiology like the biological clock, rhythm synchronization, and the global control of physiological and metabolic processes by the clock, all of which are critical for your research.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Research Scientists conduct research to advance scientific knowledge. Circadian rhythms are a major area of research, so Research Scientists who work in this field need to have a strong understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and you will learn how to conduct research in this field.
Physiologist
Physiologist
Physiologists study the function of living organisms. Circadian rhythms affect many physiological processes, so Physiologists need to have a strong understanding of circadian rhythms. One who wishes to enter this career field should take this course in particular because it will provide you with a strong foundation in the physiological basis of circadian rhythms.
Neuroscientist
Neuroscientist
Neuroscientists study the structure and function of the nervous system. Circadian rhythms are controlled by the brain, so Neuroscientists need to have a strong understanding of circadian rhythms. One who wishes to enter this career field should take this course in particular because it will provide you with a strong foundation in the neurobiological basis of circadian rhythms.
Sleep Medicine Physician
Sleep Medicine Physician
Sleep Medicine Physicians work with patients to diagnose and treat sleep disorders like narcolepsy, insomnia, and sleep apnea. As a Sleep Medicine Physician, you will need to be well-versed in the science of circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms heavily influence sleep patterns, and medications used to treat sleep disorders often target circadian rhythms. Thus, taking this course may be useful as it will provide you with a solid foundation in circadian rhythms, allowing you to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements and apply them in your practice.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study the causes and distribution of diseases in populations. Circadian rhythms can affect the incidence and prevalence of diseases, so Epidemiologists need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect disease.
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientists analyze evidence to aid criminal investigations. This includes determining the time of death of a victim. Circadian rhythms can be used to estimate the time of death. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and you will learn how it can be used to solve crimes.
Pharmaceutical Scientist
Pharmaceutical Scientist
Pharmaceutical Scientists work to develop new drugs and therapies. Circadian rhythms affect the efficacy of drugs, so Pharmaceutical Scientists need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect drug efficacy.
Dietitian
Dietitian
Dietitians work with patients to develop and implement healthy eating plans. Circadian rhythms affect many aspects of metabolism, so Dietitians need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect metabolism.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers work to design and implement systems to improve a patient’s quality of life. Many of these systems are designed to work with the patient’s circadian rhythms, such as implantable drug delivery devices, automated light therapy devices, and automated sleep-wake cycle regulators. To get involved in this field, taking this course may be useful as it offers a strong basis in the scientific and technological advances surrounding circadian clocks. It will also provide you with the skills to evaluate and communicate the performance of medical technologies.
Toxicologist
Toxicologist
Toxicologists study the effects of toxic substances on living organisms. Circadian rhythms can affect the toxicity of substances, so Toxicologists need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect toxicity.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologists study the biology and behavior of wildlife. Circadian rhythms affect many aspects of wildlife behavior, so Wildlife Biologists need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect wildlife behavior.
Zoologist
Zoologist
Zoologists study the biology and behavior of animals. Circadian rhythms affect many aspects of animal behavior, so Zoologists need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect animal behavior.
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistants work with physicians to provide medical care to patients. Circadian rhythms affect many aspects of health, so Physician Assistants need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect health. It will also provide you with the skills to evaluate and communicate the performance of medical technologies.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian
Veterinarians work to diagnose and treat diseases in animals. Circadian rhythms affect many aspects of animal health, so Veterinarians need to have a basic understanding of circadian rhythms. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in the science of circadian rhythms and how they affect animal health.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/06ksrp/circadian
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Circadian clocks: how rhythms structure life.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of the circadian clock in health and disease. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it provides a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians who are interested in the circadian clock.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of circadian rhythms, from the molecular basis of the clock to the clinical implications of circadian disruption. It is written in a clear and concise style, and is well-illustrated with figures and tables.
This journal publishes original research on all aspects of biological rhythms. It would be a valuable resource for students who are interested in keeping up with the latest research in the field.
This journal publishes original research on all aspects of sleep. It would be a valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the role of circadian clocks in sleep.
Save
This journal publishes original research on all aspects of physiology and behavior. It would be a valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the relationship between the brain and behavior.
Provides a comprehensive overview of sleep and circadian rhythms. It is written by a leading expert in the field, and it provides a valuable resource for researchers and students who are interested in sleep and circadian rhythms.
This journal publishes original research on all aspects of neuroscience. It would be a valuable resource for students who are interested in learning more about the brain and behavior.
This comprehensive and easy-to-read book will serve as a good reference about chronobiology, or the study of biological rhythms.
Save
Provides a popular science overview of the field of sleep research. It would be a good choice for students who are interested in learning more about the role of sleep in health and well-being.
While this book covers more than circadian clocks, it provides a detailed overview of the neural regulation of sleep-wake states, which is relevant to the course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of sleep medicine. It is written by leading experts in the field, and it provides a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers who are interested in sleep medicine.
Save
Provides a popular science overview of the field of chronobiology. It would be a good choice for students who are new to the subject.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/06ksrp/circadian
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Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)
Instructors
Martha Merrow
Till Roenneberg
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