BME 4414

Streets were saying Prof Barker was dealing with some major family struggles this semester, so hopefully this was a unique experience and this course will continue to improve! However this is a classic example of class that the professor does not prioritize and thus the students suffer. We didn’t get a single assignment grade back until Thanksgiving Break (our first assignment was due Sep 8…) PROS: - Moderate course load - Course focuses on grant writing, which is helpful for prospective researchers - Attendance is tracked but the same sign in link is used each time so you can just save it - guest lectures allow you to meet/learn from other profs CONS: - extremely poor grade turnaround time - weekly quizzes are unreliable. Many times they will be cancelled or extended, which is difficult for students like me who prefer more structure - very strict grader. Barker doesn’t like giving out A’s. His feedback to an assignment: “outstanding organization and information. Well done. 91/100” - you won’t gain technical skills from this class ADVICE: - Barker likes detailed experimental protocols. When writing your fellowship application and SBIR application, include a lot of detail and protocol names when possible (ie what type of staining rather than just saying histology) - this course is best for students with wet lab research experience since you’ll be expected to know a lot about methods - provide a doctor’s note if you are ever sick GRADE BREAKDOWN: 10% Attendance 30% “Weekly” quizzes 15% Critical review 15% Fellowship application 20% SBIR application 10% Final SBIR pitch