Biology Undergraduate Course Listing

LEC = Lecture Instructor; LAB = Lab Instructor; COR = Coordinator; ADM = Administrator
Note: Subject to change. Please refer to the University Timetable for confirmation of fall/winter offerings listed below.

BIOL 102 / 3.0
show details
Fundamentals of Biology: Molecular and Cell Biology

An introduction to the basic themes and concepts of modern biology spanning organizational levels from molecules to cells in an evolutionary context.
NOTE    Also offered online. Consult Continuing and Distance Studies. Learning Hours may vary.
NOTE    Also offered at the Bader International Study Centre, Herstmonceux. Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS    111 (24L;6Lb;9G;12O;60P)
RECOMMENDATION    4U Biology and Chemistry, or equivalent high school background, are highly recommended.

 

Winter 2024 (ASO)
Fall 2023
Summer 2024 (ASO)
BIOL 103 / 3.0
show details
Fundamentals of Biology: Organisms to Ecosystems

An introduction to the basic themes and concepts of modern biology spanning organizational levels from organisms to ecosystems in an evolutionary context.
NOTE    Also offered online. Consult Continuing and Distance Studies. Learning Hours may vary.
NOTE    Also offered at the Bader International Study Centre, Herstmonceux. Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS    123 (36L;24Lb;24O;39P)
RECOMMENDATION    BIOL 102/3.0.

Fall 2023 (ASO)
Winter 2024
BIOL 110 / 3.0
show details
Human Genetics and Evolution
 

Introductory genetics and evolutionary processes as they relate to the human condition - genetic diseases, medical techniques, inheritance and ethical issues such as cloning and genetically modified foods.
NOTE  Also offered online.  Consult Continuing and Distance Studies.  Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS  118 (26L;10T;10G;36O;36P)
ONE-WAY EXCLUSION  May not be taken with or after BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0
Course details can be found here.
 

 
Fall 2023 (ASO)
BIOL 111 / 3.0
show details
Ecology and the Environment


Introduces the basic concepts of ecology and shows how they relate to environmental issues such as population growth, resource management, biodiversity, agriculture, air and water pollution, energy, and climate change, and to solutions leading to a sustainable environment.
NOTE Also offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online. Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS 108 (36L;72P)
ONE-WAY EXCLUSION May not be taken with or after BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.
 

Summer 2024 (ASO)
BIOL 200 / 3.0
show details
Diversity of Life
This course provides a phylogenetically based overview of biodiversity across the Tree of Life including viruses, archaea, bacteria, algae, fungi, plants, invertebrates and vertebrates. Patterns of organizational complexity and species diversity are explained in the context of evolutionary processes, structure?function relationships and ecology.
NOTE Textbook and onQ course site for distributing reading material.
LEARNING HOURS 120(36L;18T;18O;48P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 102/3.0 and BIOL 103/3.0.
EXCLUSION(S) BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0
EQUIVALENCY BIOL 201/3.0 and/or BIOL 202/3.0

 

 

Winter 2024
BIOL 205 / 3.0
show details
Mendelian and Molecular Genetics

An introduction to Mendelian and molecular genetics covering the basic mechanisms of genetic transmission, gene structure and function, as well as the application of molecular genetics in medicine and biotechnology. 
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;18T;18O;48P)  
PREREQUISITE A GPA of 1.90 in BIOL 102/3.0 and BIOL 103/3.0.

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 206 / 3.0
show details
Evolutionary Genetics
An introduction to the genetic mechanisms of population differentiation and evolutionary change ? from molecules to species. The genetical theory of evolution is also applied to problems involving conservation, biotechnology and the evolution of disease.
NOTE Priority to BIOL concentrators will be given during course selection.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;36Lb;12O;36P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 205/3.0.
Winter 2024
BIOL 212 / 3.0
show details
Scientific Methods in Biology

A hands on laboratory course that establishes the fundamentals of scientific investigation and applies them to selected biological questions. Students will learn to develop hypotheses, design and execute experiments, and to analyze and present results. There will be four modules structured as: Cell, Organism, Population and Ecosystem.
NOTE Blended learning, online material and hands on activities in the lab.
NOTE QUBS Field Trip: Estimated cost $40.

Learning Hours: 122 (8 Lecture, 66 Laboratory, 24 Online Activity, 24 Private Study)  
Requirements: Prerequisite A GPA of 1.90 in (BIOL 102 and BIOL 103).  

 

Fall 2023
Winter 2024
BIOL 243 / 3.0
show details
Introduction to Statistics

An introduction to the analysis of data from real life situations. Covers study design, descriptive and inferential statistics.  Topics include probability, t?tests, regression, Chi?square tests, analysis of variance. Emphasis is in the foundation of statistical inference and practical application of statistical methods using statistical software.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;12T;72P)
EXCLUSION No more than 3.0 units from BIOL 243/3.0; CHEE 209/3.0; ECON 250/3.0; GPHY 247/3.0; KNPE 251/3.0 (formerly PHED 251/3.0); NURS 323/3.0; POLS 385/3.0; PSYC 202/3.0; SOCY 211/3.0; STAT 263/3.0; STAT 267/3.0; STAT 367/3.0; COMM 162/3.0.
ONE?WAY EXCLUSION May not be taken with or after STAT 269/3.0.

Fall 2023
BIOL 300 / 3.0
show details
Ecology

An exploration of the relationships between living things and their environment in an evolutionary framework. Topics include constraints, organismal ecology, population dynamics, interactions, community structure, energy and elemental flow through ecosystems, and global diversity patterns. We will collect, analyze, and interpret ecological data.
NOTE QUBS Field Trip: estimated cost $50.

Learning Hours: 118 (36 Lecture, 21 Laboratory, 12 Online Activity, 16 Off-Campus Activity, 33 Private Study)  
Requirements: Prerequisite BIOL 103. Exclusion BIOL 302; BIOL 303. Recommended BIOL 206, BIOL 212, and second year statistics (e.g. BIOL 243, PSYC 202, STAT 269).  

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 307 / 3.0
show details
Field Biology I

Two weeks of field work plus written assignments in one or two areas of study to be done when specialized modules are available in May, July, August or February. Studies may include ecology of birds, fish, insects, small mammals, plants, tundra and taiga, lakes and caves.
NOTE Field trip: estimated cost of each module and the schedule of offerings for each year are available in January.
PREREQUISITE BIOL 102/3.0 and BIOL 103/3.0 and (registration in a BIOL Major, BIOL Science Minor/General, BIMA Specialization, BIPS Specialization, BTEC Specialization, or EBIO Specialization Plan)
 

Fall 23 / Winter 24
BIOL 316 / 3.0
show details
Fisheries Biology

An introduction to the basic principles of fisheries biology and examination of the biological foundations of current problems affecting the world’s fisheries, with an emphasis on developing sound science?based strategies to resolve these problems.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;84P)

PREREQUISITE BIOL 103/3.0

COREQUISITE: (BIOL 200/3.0 or BIOL 202/3.0)

Winter 2024
BIOL 317 / 3.0
show details
Field Biology II

Two weeks of field work plus written assignments in one or two areas of study to be done when specialized modules are available in May, July, August or February. Studies may include ecology of birds, fish, insects, small mammals, plants, tundra and taiga, lakes and caves.
NOTE Field trip: estimated cost of each module and the schedule of offerings for each year are available in January.
PREREQUISITE BIOL 307/3.0. Prior to registering in the course students must complete the application process, be placed in a module and complete the field work.

Fall 23 / Winter 24
BIOL 322 / 3.0
show details
Environmental Physiology of Animals

A comparative examination of interaction between animals and their environment including: physiological adaptations to extreme environments (e.g., arctic, desert); responses to acute and chronic environmental stress (e.g., hypoxia, temperature); environmental regulation of normal physiological processes; uses of comparative models in other fields.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;24O;60P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 339/3.0.

 

Winter 2024
BIOL 327 / 3.0
show details
Field Biology III

Two weeks of field work plus written assignments in one or two areas of study to be done when specialized modules are available in May, July, August or February. Studies may include ecology of birds, fish, insects, small mammals, plants, tundra and taiga, lakes and caves.
NOTE Field trip: estimated cost of each module and the schedule of offerings for each year are available in January.
PREREQUISITE BIOL 307/3.0 and BIOL 317/3.0. Prior to registering in the course students must complete the application process, be placed in a module and complete the field work.

Fall 23 / Winter 24
BIOL 330 / 3.0
show details
Cell Biology
An introduction to the cellular basis of biological variation. The course explores the control of cell function exerted by the
nucleus, the pathways for building and fuelling cells, and the control of integrative cellular events.
NOTE Also offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online. Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;12T;24O;48P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 205/3.0 or BCHM 218/3.0.
Fall 2023
BIOL 331 / 3.0
show details
Analytical Genomics
This course will explore the structure of genomes and the nature and origin of gene families as well as large scale functional genomics methods for analysis of novel gene function.
LEARNING HOURS 124 (36L;12T;40O;36P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 205/3.0 or BCHM 218/3.0.
Exclusion(s) BCHM370/3.0; BMED 370/3.0.
Winter 2024
BIOL 333 / 3.0
show details
Applied Biology

 

The course explores biological contributions to society in the fields of environmental assessment and management, materials and food production, and biotechnology. Emphasis is placed on understanding of applied processes in relevant service and production industries.
LEARNING HOURS 108 (36L;12T;60P)
PREREQUISITE (BIOL 200/3.0 or BIOL 201/3.0) and BIOL 205/3.0.
 

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 334 / 3.0
show details
Comparative Biochemistry
A survey of selected topics including: general principles of enzymology; bioenergetics; metabolism and its control; the importance of proteomic and enzyme research in functional genomics and biotechnology; mechanisms whereby animals and plants acclimate at the biochemical level to environmental stress.
NOTE Preference will be given to students registered in a Biology degree program or who require this course for their program.
LEARNING HOURS 110.4 (36L;24O;50.4)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 103/3.0 and CHEM 112/6.0 and (BIOL 205/3.0 or BCHM 218/3.0).
Winter 2024
BIOL 335 / 3.0
show details
Limnology and Aquatic Ecology

Physics, chemistry and biology of freshwater lakes. Emphasis on: morphometry; light and temperature; water chemistry in relation to nutrients; physiological requirements; composition and interaction of algal and invertebrate populations; eutrophication; pollution; environmental change.
NOTE QUBS Field trip: estimated cost $45.

Learning Hours: 113 (36 Lecture, 18 Laboratory, 8 Off-Campus Activity, 51 Private Study)  
Requirements: Prerequisite CHEM 112. Recommended BIOL 200 or BIOL 201 or BIOL 202.  
Fall 2023
BIOL 338 / 3.0
show details
Marine Biology

An introduction to life in the World's oceans and seas from a global, ecological and evolutionary perspective. You will study marine habitats, food webs, biodiversity, ecological processes, functional biology, adaptations of marine organisms, and human impacts on marine life (fisheries and environmental impacts). This course will address the issues raised by United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UN SDG) 14 “Life below Water”. Students will learn how we can conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources if the appropriate action is taken and measures are put in place to protect these incredibly diverse and valuable ecosystems.  

PREREQUISITE Level 2 or permission of Department/BISC instructor required in advance
Summer 2024 - Bader College
BIOL 339 / 3.0
show details
Animal Physiology
Focus is placed on adaptive physiology and integrative function (nervous and hormonal, movement, excretion, circulation and digestion) with examples selected from various phylogenetic levels as appropriate.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;18O;66P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 205/3.0 or BCHM 218/3.0.
Fall 2023
BIOL 341 / 3.0
show details
Plant Physiology
The course examines various aspects of plant cell biology, physiology, and biochemistry including carbon and nitrogen metabolism (photosynthesis, respiration, etc.), water relations, mineral nutrition, response to environmental stress, roles of plant hormones, plant biotechnology.
LEARNING HOURS 115 (36L;10G;15O;54P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 205/3.0 or BCHM 218/3.0.
Winter 2024
BIOL 343 / 3.0
show details
Data Analysis for Biologists
Advanced topics in using R for data management, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, and statistical analysis using the general linear model, with particular focus on statistical literacy and biological examples from both laboratory and field research.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;12T;12O;60P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 243/3.0 or PSYC 202/3.0 or STAT 269/3.0.
Fall 2023
BIOL 350 / 3.0
show details
Evolution and Human Affairs
An exploration of how evolutionary thinking can affect our understanding of our lives, our species, and our ability to share the planet with other species.
NOTE Also offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online. Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;24O;60P)
PREREQUISITE Level 3 or above.
Fall 2023
BIOL 360 / 3.0
show details
Biotechnology and Society

The contributions and effects of biotechnology on humanity will be explored from the perspective of their impacts on society including moral and ethical issues. Biotechnological contributions to society to be explored will include those in medicine, industry, and agriculture.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;12T;72P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 205/3.0 or BCHM 218/3.0.
 

Winter 2024
BIOL 369 / 3.0
show details
Sex and Evolution

Why sex? The evolutionary origins and consequences of sex and sexual reproduction. Topics include costs and benefits of sexual reproduction, the evolution and coevolution of sexes, gametes and genitalia, mating systems, gender differences and sex determination throughout the biotic world.
LEARNING HOURS 122 (36L;8T;18O;60P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 206/3.0.
PREREQUISITE BIOL 102/3.0 and BIOL 103/3.0 and (3.0 units from BCHM 218/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0)

 

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 401 / 3.0
show details
Experimental Approaches to Animal Physiology
Laboratory?based course emphasizing experimental approaches to understanding the principles of animal physiology covered in BIOL 339/3.0.
LEARNING HOURS 108 (36Lb;12T;60P)
PREREQUISITE A minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List and BIOL 339/3.0.

Biological Foundations List

BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0 

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 403 / 3.0
show details
Experimental Techniques in Biology
Self?directed and self?selected hands?on experimental techniques used in fundamental biology research, biotechnologies, and medical sciences.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36Lb;12T;72Oc)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 205/3.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.

Winter 2024
BIOL 404 / 3.0
show details
Techniques in Molecular Biology

Intensive laboratory work (8h/day) to be carried out over two and a half weeks in May. Practical work includes DNA isolations, DNA cloning, PCR, production of proteins, biochemical and immunological analysis of proteins.
NOTE Priority to students registered in BIOL Major and Specialization degree Plans. See course website for details.
LEARNING HOURS 112.5 (100Lb;12.5P)
PREREQUISITE (BCHM 218/3.0 or BIOL 330/3.0 or MBIO 218/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.

Biological Foundations List

BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0 

Summer 2024 May
Summer 2024 August
BIOL 409 / 3.0
show details
Bioremediation

Throughout Canada and around the world, land and water is contaminated because of anthropogenic activities related to mining, manufacturing, agriculture, urbanization and other human activities. In this course we explore the opportunities to clean up contaminated land and water through the use of biological systems including plants, fungi and bacteria.  
LEARNING HOURS 109.2 (36L;12T;6Oc;55.2P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 322/3.0 or BIOL 339/3.0 or BIOL 341/3.0.
PREREQUISITE BIOL 330/3.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.

Biological Foundations List

BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0 

Fall 2023
BIOL 410 / 3.0
show details
Ecology of Lakes and Streams

An in?depth look at the ecology and evolution of freshwater aquatic ecosystems, considering the role of populations, interspecific interactions, and the flow of energy and matter. There will be an emphasis on linking ecological theory with empirical evidence from aquatic systems. Topics will include dispersal and colonization, ecological genetics, resource competition, predator?prey interaction, evolution of life?history strategies, habitat coupling, and biogeochemical cycling.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (24L;12S;84P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 335/3.0.
PREREQUISITE (BIOL 300/3.0 or BIOL 302/3.0 or BIOL 303/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0. 
 

Winter 2024
BIOL 416 / 3.0
show details
Terrestrial Ecosystems

 

Principles of terrestrial ecosystem ecology: soils; plant?soil interactions; energy and water balance; carbon and nutrient cycling; species effects; landscape?level and whole earth biogeochemistry; global change. NOTE Overnight field trip: estimated cost $75.
LEARNING HOURS 124 (12L,24S;18Lb;12Pc;12G;12O;16Oc;18P)
PREREQUISITE (BIOL 300/3.0 or GPHY 317/3.0 or BIOL 302/3.0 or BIOL 303/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.
ONE?WAY EXCLUSION May not be taken with or after BIOL 510/3.0.

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0. 

 

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 418 / 3.0
show details
Fisheries Techniques

This course will introduce students to many “hands-on” techniques currently used in fisheries. This will include fish identification, different capture techniques for fisheries assessment, bioacoustics, environmental monitoring, techniques for ageing fish, diet analysis, fish tracking (biotelemetry approaches), and data management.
LEARNING HOURS  120 (30Lb;10T;40G;40P)
PREREQUISITE   BIOL 316/3.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List  

Summer 2024
BIOL 422 / 3.0
show details
Conservation Biology

The application of biological research to the conservation of biodiversity and natural resources, as well as the interaction of biology with philosophy, politics and economics in influencing conservation policy. LEARNING HOURS 108 (36L;36T;36P)
PREREQUISITE (BIOL 300/3.0 or BIOL 302/3.0 or BIOL 303/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List. 
Exclusion/One-way exclusion ENSC 320
Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.

Winter 2024
BIOL 430 / 3.0
show details
Molecular Genetics of Development

The use of genetic analysis to understand developmental processes such as cell fate determination, pattern formation and morphogenesis. Emphasis will be on the molecular pathways used during embryonic development, highlighting applications and techniques using model organisms.
LEARNING HOURS 126 (36L;18S;24G;12I;12O;24P)
PREREQUISITE (BCHM 218/3.0 or BIOL 330/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0
 

Winter 2024
BIOL 439 / 3.0
show details
Natural Selection and Microevolution
The mechanisms of evolutionary change ? from genes to societies. How natural selection interacts with genetic and population processes to make organisms adapted to their environment and to create biological diversity.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;6S;18Lb;60P)
PREREQUISITE (BIOL 300/3.0 or BIOL 302/3.0 or BIOL 303/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.
 
Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 440 / 3.0
show details
Speciation and Macroevolution

An exploration of higher-level processes in evolution spanning considerations of mechanisms of speciation, extinction, adaptive radiation, and phylogenetics.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (24L;24T;60G;12O)
PREREQUISITE (BIOL 300/3.0 or
BIOL 302/3.0 or BIOL 303/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0

Fall 2023
BIOL 441 / 3.0
show details
Molecular Genetics
Research in eukaryotic molecular genetics with an emphasis on epigenetics. Epigenetic phenomena will be examined in a range of models from single?celled organisms to metazoans, with student discussions on topics as diverse as bioethics, disease controls, and eugenics. LEARNING HOURS 125 (30L;8S;12Lb;10G;65P)
PREREQUISITE (BCHM 218/3.0 or BIOL 330/3.0) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.
EXCLUSION(S) PATH 425/3.0. 

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.
 
 
Fall 2023
BIOL 442 / 3.0
show details
Evolutionary Medicine
An exploration of human disease, illness, and injury, and the symptoms and treatments of medical conditions, with an evolutionary framework.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (24L;20T;10O;66P)
PREREQUISITE BIOL 206/3.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.
EQUIVALENCY BIOL 522/3.0.

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0

Fall 2023
BIOL 502 / 3.0
show details
Seminar - Plant Cellular Responses to Environmental Stress

Literally rooted in place, plants have adapted robust ways to survive in a changing environment. This course will dissect signal transduction pathways and other molecular responses that are activated in plant cells exposed to environmental stresses such as pathogen infection, drought, or temperature fluctuations. Students will explore and critically evaluate current literature in plant molecular biology and genetics. Emphasis will be placed on understanding techniques used to investigate changes in gene expression, protein-protein interactions, sub-cellular localization, as well as the analysis of mutant and transgenic plant lines.  
PREREQUISITE    Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, BTEC-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List  and (BIOL 330/3.0 or BIOL 334/3.0 or BIOL 341/3.0 or BIOL 430/3.0) or permission of the Department. 
LEARNING HOURS    120 (36S;84P)

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0

 

Fall 2023
BIOL 504 / 3.0
show details
Seminar - Extremophiles

The course explores the biology of extraordinary organisms that flourish under conditions of stress and how more ordinary organisms deal with periodically unfavourable circumstances. Emphasis is placed on understanding of the relevant adaptations and processes involved. NOTE No textbook is required. The course website will be used to provide lecture notes and assigned readings from scientific books, journals and selected websites.
LEARNING HOURS 116 (30L;2S;12G;12O;60P)
PREREQUISITE Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, BTEC-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and (a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List) and (BIOL 339/3.0 or BIOL 341/3.0) or permission of Department.
EXCLUSION(S) BIOL 533/3.0. 

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.

Fall 2023
BIOL 505 / 3.0
show details
505 / 3.0 Seminar - Cell Signaling in Development and Disease

Organisms arise from a single cell into functional tissues, patterns, and structures by orchestrating cell behaviors, such as cell divisions, cell differentiation, pattern formations, cell shape changes and cell movements. This course will focus on thegenetic and molecular analyses of how these cell behaviors occur. NOTE No textbook is required. The course website will be used to provide lecture notes and assigned readings from scientific books, journals and selected websites.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (24L;12S;12I;24O;48P)
PREREQUISITE Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, BTEC-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and (a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List) and BIOL 330/3.0 or permission of Department.
EXCLUSION(S) BIOL 535/3.0. 

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0

Winter 2024
BIOL 507 / 3.0
show details
Seminar - Biotechnology
We will explore both background material and current research on a variety of biotechnologies.  Discussion groups and seminars will cover the ethical, societal and environmental impacts of biotechnology.  There will be some critical analysis of public policy and the value of biotechnologies to science and the public.  Specific topics will likely include synthetic biology, human cloning, xenotransplants, stem cells, nanomaterials, marine biotechnology, eugenics, patenting of genes, and the release of GMOs and other biotechnologies to the environment.  Plant biotechnology will not be covered in depth since there is a separate seminar course for this topic.   
EXCLUSION   BIOL441 
PREREQUISITE  Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, BTEC-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List  and (BIOL 330/3.0 or BIOL 334/3.0 or BIOL 341/3.0 or BIOL 430/3.0) or permission of the Department.

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0
Winter 2024
BIOL 527 / 3.0
show details
Seminar - Paleolimnology and Global Environmental Change

This course is mainly to provide students with a background in studies of long-term environmental change, with a focus on research that is especially relevant to today's environmental problems. Key topics include: climatic change, lake pollution, atmospheric deposition of contaminants and related topics.
LEARNING HOURS 132 (21L;15S;96P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 335/3.0.
PREREQUISITE Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, BTEC-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List or permission of the Department. 

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.

 

Winter 2024
BIOL 535 / 3.0
show details
535 / 3.0 SELECTED TOPICS IN BIOLOGY - Drug development and career opportunities in biotechnology

Over the last century biotechnology has had a profound impact on health care by enabling novel innovative approaches to pharmaceutical development. New exciting breakthroughs and life-saving treatments emerge every year. Your degree in Biology is a potential launchpad into more than 100 distinct career opportunities in biotech. This course will be grounded on drug development and various areas of agricultural biotech, focusing on the challenges that leaders in these industries face and how their background and career trajectory prepared them to face those challenges. Beyond R&D, there is a wealth of career paths tied to clinical development, business development, executive management, marketing, regulatory affairs, law, sales, IT, and many other areas. Through a mix of lectures, student-guided discussions, and direct conversations with key opinion leaders, you will be exposed to the breadth of possibilities that your Biology degree sets up for you.

LEARNING HOURS: 120 (36S;84P)

PREREQUISITE: Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, BTEC-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List and (BIOL 330/3.0 or BIOL 334/3.0 or BIOL 341/3.0 or BIOL 430/3.0) or permission of the Department.

Fall 2023
BIOL535 / 3.0
show details
535 / 3.0 SELECTED TOPICS IN BIOLOGY - Evolution in Action

Contemporary evolution can be observed through natural events, designed experiments (e.g., with model organisms in the lab or field), accidents (e.g., invasive species), and a variety of other sources such as climate change and pollution in which the native environment changes abruptly. This course will explore the advantages and limitations of understanding evolutionary processes through real time observations and experimentation. We will sow together a combination of lectures and prescribed readings in the literature with student presentations and directed readings.

LEARNING HOURS: 120 (36S;84P)

PREREQUISITE: Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL?M?BSH, BIMA?P?BSH, BIPS?P?BSH,

BTEC?P?BSH, EBIO?P?BSH) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List or permission of the Department.

Winter 2024
BIOL 535 / 3.0
show details
535 / 3.0 SELECTED TOPICS IN BIOLOGY - Aquaculture, Biotechnology and Environment

Aquaculture has evolved during human civilization allowing us to divorce the traditional hunting- fishing and-gathering lifestyle. With the fast growing human population, more intensive aquaculture is gradually overtaking the traditional fishery to meet our ever-increasing demands for dietary protein and nutrition. The introduction of modern technologies including biotechnology in aquaculture is having profound impact on this fast-growing “industry” and its operation. In return, the industry also creates new challenges concerning environment quality, human and ecosystem health, and the conservation, and sustainable development of natural resources. This module will discuss issues influenced by biotic and abiotic factors as well as the socio-economic aspect of aquaculture practice in today’s world. We will also explore the application of different biotechnologies in aquaculture industries. 
LEARNING HOURS: 116 (10L, 26S, 90P)
RECOMMENDATION:  None
PREREQUISITE: Level 4 and registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL?M?BSH, BIMA?P?BSH, BIPS?P?BSH, BTEC?P?BSH, EBIO?P?BSH) and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List or permission of the Department.

Winter 2024
BIOL 537 / 12.0
show details
Research in Biology
Individual research projects under the supervision of a staff member; reported in the form of a thesis, poster and seminar.
LEARNING HOURS 444 (8L;36S;300Pc;100O)
NOTE In the spring preceding fourth year, students must select projects in consultation with potential supervisors.
Registration is subject to availability of a supervisor. Work on the project during summer is advantageous if field studies are required. See also the statement on BIOL 501/3.0-BIOL 536/3.0 in the BIOL Department Information, preliminary information section.
PREREQUISITE Admission to the final year of a BSCH program in Biology and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List and permission of the project supervisor and course coordinator.

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.

Fall 23 / Winter 24
BIOL 538 / 3.0
show details
Research Mentorship in Biology I

Research practicum under the supervision of a Biology faculty member. The course will involve a combination of research in the host laboratory, attendance of BIOL 537 or other seminars in the Department, and literature research to present as a major paper and seminar.
NOTE    Students will normally be enrolled in the fourth year of their Program, having completed the third year core requirements of their Plan.
LEARNING HOURS    128 (8S;12T;60Pc;48P)
PREREQUISITE    Registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and permission of the Department.
ONE-WAY EXCLUSION    Not to be taken concurrently with BIOL 537.

Fall 23 / Winter 24 Various Faculty
BIOL 539 / 3.0
show details
Research Mentorship in Biology II

Research practicum under the supervision of a Biology faculty member. The course will involve a combination of research in the host laboratory, attendance of BIOL 537 or other seminars in the Department, and literature research to present as a major paper and seminar.
NOTE    Students will normally be enrolled in the fourth year of their Program, having completed the third year core requirements of their Plan.
LEARNING HOURS    128 (8S;12T;60Pc;48P)
PREREQUISITE    Registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and permission of the Department.
COREQUISITE    BIOL 538.
ONE-WAY EXCLUSION    Not to be taken concurrently with BIOL 537.

Biological Foundations List
BIOL 102/3.0; BIOL 103/3.0; BIOL 200/3.0; BIOL 201/3.0; BIOL 202/3.0; BIOL 205/3.0; BIOL 206/3.0; BIOL 212/3.0; BIOL 300/3.0; BIOL 330/3.0; BIOL 334/3.0; BIOL 339/3.0; BIOL 341/3.0; BIOL 302/3.0; BIOL 303/3.0.

Fall 23 / Winter 24 Various Faculty
BIOL 540 / 6.0
show details
Research Mentorship in Biology

Research practicum under the supervision of a Biology faculty member. The course will involve a combination of research in the host laboratory, attendance of BIOL 537 or other seminars in the Department, and literature research to present as a major paper and seminar.
NOTE    Students will normally be enrolled in the fourth year of their Program, having completed the third year core requirements of their Plan.
LEARNING HOURS    248 (8S;24T;120Pc;96P)
PREREQUISITE    Registration in a Biology Honours Plan (BIOL-M-BSH, BIOL-P-BSH, BIMA-P-BSH, BIPS-P-BSH, EBIO-P-BSH) and permission of the Department.
ONE-WAY EXCLUSION    Not to be taken concurrently with BIOL 537.

 

Fall 23 / Winter 24 Various Faculty
BIOL 541 / 12.0
show details
Research in Biotechnology

Individual research projects under the supervision of a staff member; reported in the form of a thesis, poster, and seminar.
NOTE    Students must select projects in consultation with potential supervisors a minimum of one full term in advance of starting the course.
LEARNING HOURS    446 (8L;18S;360Pc;60P)
PREREQUISITE    Admission to the final year of the BTEC program in Biology, and permission of the project supervisor and course coordinator.
EXCLUSION    No more than 1 course from BIOL 537/12.0 and BIOL 541/12.0.

 

Winter 2024

I've spent more time than many will believe [making microscopic observations], but I've done them with joy, and I've taken no notice those who have said why take so much trouble and what good is it?

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek

It's a parts list... If I gave you the parts list for the Boeing 777 and it had 100,000 parts, I don't think you could screw it together and you certainly wouldn't understand why it flew

Eric Lander

What is true for E. coli is also true for the elephant

Jacques Monod

The world becomes full of organisms that have what it takes to become ancestors. That, in a sentence, is Darwinism

Richard Dawkins

Shall we conjecture that one and the same kind of living filaments is and has been the cause of all organic life?

Erasmus Darwin

Nature proceeds little by little from things lifeless to animal life in such a way that it's impossible to determine the line of demarcation

Aristotle

Cells let us walk, talk, think, make love, and realize the bath water is cold

Lorraine Lee Cudmore

In the distant future I see open fields for far more important researches. Psychology will be based on a new foundation, that of the necessary acquirement of each mental power and capacity by gradation. Light will be thrown on the origin of man and his history

Charles Darwin

It is my belief that the basic knowledge that we're providing to the world will have a profound impact on the human condition and the treatments for disease and our view of our place on the biological continuum

J. Craig Venter

Imagine a house coming together spontaneously from all the information contained in the bricks: that is how animal bodies are made

Neil Shubin

A grain in the balance will determine which individual shall live and which shall die - which variety or species shall increase in number, and which shall decrease, or finally become extinct

Charles Darwin

The stuff of life turned out to be not a quivering, glowing, wondrous gel but a contraption of tiny jigs, springs, hinges, rods, sheets, magnets, zippers, and trapdoors, assembled by a data tape whose information is copied, downloaded and scanned

Steven Pinker

We wish to discuss a structure for the salt of deoxyribose nucleic acid. (D.N.A.). This structure has novel features which are of considerable biologic interest

Rosalind Franklin

We are biology. We are reminded of this at the beginning and the end, at birth and at death. In between we do what we can to forget

Mary Roach

The systems approach to biology will be the dominant theme in medicine

Leroy Hood

I've always been interested in animal behavior, and I keep reading about it because it's so surprising all the time - so many things are happening around us that we neglect to look at. Part of the passion I have for biology is based on this wonderment"

Isabella Rossellini

Because all of biology is connected, one can often make a breakthrough with an organism that exaggerates a particular phenomenon, and later explore the generality

Thomas Cech

Nothing in Biology makes sense except in the light of evolution

Theodosius Dobzhansky

Biology is now bigger than physics, as measured by the size of budgets, by the size of the workforce, or by the output of major discoveries; and biology is likely to remain the biggest part of science through the twenty-first century

- Freeman Dyson

Nothing can be more incorrect than the assumption one sometimes meets with, that physics has one method, chemistry another, and biology a third

- Thomas Huxley