The essential biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, and metabolic pathways underlying the survival and success of all living organisms. Themes and case studies could range from the application of genetic engineering in biotechnology to the role of cellular dysregulation in inheritable diseases.
NOTE Also offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online. 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).

The origins and diversification of multicellular organisms, their form, function and adaptation to stress and a changing world. Themes and case studies include energy flow from molecules to ecosystems, organismal interactions including parasitism and disease dynamics, and the impacts of human activity.
NOTE Also offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online. 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).

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 Arts and Science Online. Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS 118 (26L;10T;10G;36O;36P)

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)

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)

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;18TO;48P).

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;18T;18O;48P).

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 $35.
LEARNING HOURS 122 (8L;66Lb;24O;24P).

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)

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 In-person version includes a required field trip (additional cost)
LEARNING HOURS 118 (36L;21Lb;12O;16Oc;33P)
EQUIVALENCY BIOL 302/3.0 and/or BIOL 303/3.0.

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. The schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.
NOTE    Field trip: estimated cost of each module and the schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.

One week 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. The schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.
NOTE    Field trip: estimated cost of each module and the schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.

Human civilization depends on plants. We have changed them and they have changed us. This course investigates the biology and evolution of valuable economic plants, the science of plant domestication and genetic manipulation, and how our interactions with plants have altered the economy, politics, and sociology of human civilization.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;24O;60P)

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)

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. The schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.
NOTE    Field trip: estimated cost of each module and the schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.

Ethnobotany is the study of the relationships that exist between indigenous cultures and local flora. Case studies will be presented to examine the various categories of plant use, the importance of traditional knowledge to Western culture, and the role of plant conservation and cultural sustainability.
NOTE Only offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online.

An evolutionary approach to the study of animal behaviour. This course explores processes and patterns in behaviour, with emphasis on perception, communication, foraging, spacing, reproduction and social behaviour in a variety of animals. Methods of studying and analyzing behaviour are explored through laboratory exercises.
NOTE Also offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online. Learning Hours may vary.
LEARNING HOURS 132 (36L;12T;12I;12O;24Oc;36P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 202/3.0.

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)

Vertebrate biodiversity including characteristics and adaptations of the major classes of the living vertebrates; major environmental and geological changes associated with vertebrate evolution.
NOTE    Field trip: estimated cost $35.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;12Lb;72P)

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. The schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.
NOTE    Field trip: estimated cost of each module and the schedule of offerings for each year is available in January.

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)

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)

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.

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.
LEARNING HOURS 110.4 (36L;24O;50.4P).

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 Field trip: estimated cost $35.
LEARNING HOURS 113 (36L;18Lb;8Oc;51P).

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

Laboratory-based course emphasizing experimental approaches to understanding the principles of plant physiology covered in BIOL 341/3.0.
LEARNING HOURS 114 (36Lb;24T;6O;48P)

Self-directed and self-selected hands-on experimental techniques used in fundamental biology research, biotechnologies, and medical sciences.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36Lb;12T;72Oc)

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)

The use of living organisms to address environmental problems. Topics include mechanisms of contaminant extraction, absorption, concentration, and degradation using bacteria and plants to detoxify organic compounds, sequester heavy metals or clean up excess nutrients.
NOTE    Field trip: estimated cost $40.
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 301/3.0 or BIOL 322/3.0 or BIOL 339/3.0 or BIOL 341/3.0 is recommended.

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.

This course focuses on the fundamental biology underlying the major global change issues that humanity currently faces. Strong emphasis will be placed on the critical interconnections among issues across hierarchical levels from molecule to biosphere that explain the patterns and mechanisms which have led to our current environmental predicament.
LEARNING HOURS 117(24L;18T;12G;3Oc;36P)

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: cost $75.
LEARNING HOURS 124 (12L,24S;18Lb;12Pc;12G;12O;16Oc;18P)

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)
PREREQUISITES BIOL 316/3.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the Biological Foundations List.

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.
NOTE    A course fee to cover guest speakers and field trips of not more than $40.
LEARNING HOURS 108 (36L;36T;36P)

An exploration into the world of insects, one of the most abundantly successful group of organisms on the earth.
NOTE    An overnight field trip is estimated to cost $65; a limited number of bursaries may be available for exceptional circumstances; contact the instructor early in the previous term.
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 330/3.0 or MBIO 218/3.0

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)

The cellular origins of diversity in physiological processes, with consideration of the role of evolutionary, developmental and molecular mechanisms.
LEARNING HOURS 108 (6L;30S;8T;4G;60P)

Application of basic coding and analytical methods to obtain, organize, analyze, visualize, and interpret information from large, complex datasets (i.e. 'Big Data') in biology. Datasets may include climate/weather records, 'omics' data, specimen collections, long-term observational studies, journal articles, and other historical and online sources.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;12T;72P)

An examination of the foundations of evolution, classification and other selected topics from historical, philosophical and scientific perspectives.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36L;24T;60P)

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)

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)

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)

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)

The current status of research in the study of the neural control of the natural behaviour of animals. Topics include the detection and coding of information in the environment, the integration of this information in the process of decision-making, the generation of the motor patterns that underlie behaviour, and general constraints on form and function of neural circuits.
LEARNING HOURS 126 (36L;18T;24O;48P).

This course will focus on how molecular biology is used in basic and medical research to dissect the mechanisms involved in a large variety of biological problems. Students in the course will explore molecular literature and techniques that are relevant to their interest through seminar presentations, writing critiques, scientific reviews.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36S;84P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 430/3.0.

This course will dissect signal transduction pathways and molecular responses in plants exposed to environmental stresses such as pathogen infection, drought, or temperature fluctuations. Emphasis is 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.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36S;84P)

This is an experiential course on the business of science and the steps leading to the commercialization of an agrobiotech product. Students will go through a series of workshops to develop their own ideas into a commercially valuable product, plus an assessment of all related social and economic issues using business-oriented exercises.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (15L;9S;24G;72P).

The course explores 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)

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 the genetic 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)

Biochemical adaptation is a fundamental aspect of biological diversity because it integrates molecular structure, with metabolic function and control. The course evaluates the mechanisms whereby animals, plants, and microbes acclimate at the biochemical level to 'extreme' environmental conditions such as temperature stress, high pressure, hypoxia, salt stress, oxidative stress, and desiccation.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36S;84P)
RECOMMENDATION (BIOL 301/3.0 or BIOL 341/3.0) and BIOL 322/3.0.

This course covers the ethical, societal and environmental impacts of biotechnology. There will be critical analysis of public policy and the value of biotechnologies to science and the public. Topics will likely include synthetic biology, human cloning, xenotransplants, stem cells, nanomaterials, marine biotechnology, eugenics, patenting, GMOs and the release of biotech products to the environment.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36S;84P).

Cell proliferation underlies development and tissue renewal and is implicated in many diseases. Our universal model of eukaryotic cell cycle control is based on studies in a number of model systems. The course will focus on control mechanisms, deriving information from systems as diverse as yeast and human cells.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36S;84P).

This course will explore ecological and evolutionary aspects of species invasions, with an emphasis on aquatic invaders. Course discussions will include such topics as invasive species and factors that influence their arrival, establishment, and spread, as well as management strategies that can be employed to reduce the arrival, establishment, and spread of invasive species.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P).

This ecology course will identify and critique potential mechanisms by which our civilization could most effectively move toward more sustainable living. The topic incorporates many fundamental aspects of biology, and each course iteration may include biogeochemical, ecological, economic, social, genetic, philosophical, and behavioural components.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (36S;12T;12G;36I;12O;12P).

This course will examine the influence of biotic and/or abiotic factors in aquaculture industries around the globe. We will explore the application of different biotechnologies in fishery industries and assess the potential impacts of various types of aquaculture practices on the environment and our fundamental socio-economical values.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)

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.

This course uses the latitudinal increase in diversity towards the equator as a launching point to explore how diversity forms, is maintained, and disappears, and why we find such dramatic variation in diversity around the world. Discussions will focus on both evolutionary and ecological perspectives of diversity, and we will review various hypotheses to explain latitudinal diversity gradients.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)
RECOMMENDATION BIOL 201/3.0 and BIOL 202/3.0 and (BIOL 302/3.0 or BIOL 303/3.0 or BIOL 439/3.0)

Through seminars, essays, and group discussions, students explore ideas, research objectives, and recent discoveries in the application of Darwinian evolutionary theory to the interpretation of human nature, social life, and culture ¿ and how these advances impact on our understanding of civilization and the challenges it faces for the 21st century.
LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)

LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)

LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)

LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)

LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)

LEARNING HOURS 120 (9L;9S;18G;84P)

Individual research projects under the supervision of a staff member; reported in the form of a thesis, poster and seminar.
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.
LEARNING HOURS 444 (8L;36S;300Pc;100O)

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.

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.

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.

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)

A survey of the ways in which concepts from evolutionary biology can be used to better address and understand issues related to human health. Topics might include the evolutionary biology of infectious diseases, the utility of phylogenetics in infectious diseases, the evolution of drug (e.g., vaccines) and antibiotic resistance, the evolutionary biology of human genetic disorders, aging and senescence.   Three term hours; fall.  Not offered 2010-2011.

Plant Molecular Biology

This course explores contemporary research ideas and techniques used to elucidate plant metabolism and its control. Topics include plant signal transduction, plant metabolic adaptations to abiotic and biotic stress, as well as the application of proteomics, genomics, and molecular biology for comprehending plant metabolism and the production of 'improved' transgenic crops via metabolic engineering. Three term hours; fall. Not Offered 2010-2011.

This course will be a hands-on introduction to essential bioinformatics skills. The goal is to build a foundation of computational skills that enable analysis of large biological data. We will learn command-line Unix/Linux, shell scripting, and installation/testing/usage of popular public bioinformatics packages. We will spend significant time learning Perl and/or Python and Matlab. The course will rely heavily on problem-based learning and in-class discussion. Assignments will involve analyses that use primary literature data, particularly next-gen sequencing data. 50% of the final grade is based on a research project conceived and carried out independently. No prior programming experience is necessary.

A course in advanced techniques for analyzing biological data. Possible topics include statistical and machine learning (e.g. likelihood models, Monte Carlo methods, approximate Bayesian computation), and neural networks (e.g. deep, recursive, convolutional). Topics covered will depend upon student and faculty interests. Lectures & Tutorials (3hrs).

The structure, function and interactions of nerve cells particularly with respect to how these relate to the generation of motor patterns and behaviour. Emphasis will be on the mechanisms underlying the plasticity of neuronal circuits. Invertebrate and vertebrate systems will be considered. Three term hours; fall. Not offered 2010-2011.

The course will compare and contrast the behaviour of persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic compounds, such as methyl mercury and chlorinated aromatic compounds, with the behaviour of less persistent chemicals such as petroleum hydrocarbons and modern pesticides.  Subjects of interest may include sediment diagenesis, long-range transport, methylation processes, and interactions between biomagnification and ecosystem structure and productivity. Three term-hours; fall. Not offered 2010-2011.

The focus will be on biological issues of current importance to provide a broad exposure within a range of specific disciplines. Topics will include critical analysis of biological issues that have been featured as news items either in the popular press or in science news journals within the previous 12 months. Three term hours; fall. C. Moyes.

Environmental stress is addressed with respect to water, nutrition, temperature, toxins, and competition between organisms. Topics include adaptations to cope with stress; biological responses at the organismal, cellular, biochemical, physiological and molecular genetic levels. No specialized molecular biology background is required. Three term hours; fall. Not offered 2010-2011.

Topics will range from population genetics to transcriptional regulation in both plants and animals. Application of the tools of molecular genetics to biological problems will be emphasized. No previous specialization in molecular biology is required, although some background in this area is highly recommended. Three term hours; winter. W. Bendena.

Current issues relating to the biotechnology industry will be dealt with in detail. Topics covered include: grant writing; patenting; circumventing patents; funding sources; business plans; venture capital investments; public awareness; public perspective; and layperson presentations. Three term hours; TBA.

Oral presentation of research in Biology. Methods for the presentation and critical analysis of research seminars and posters, including preparation of graphical material and the use of microcomputers. This course will run bi-weekly for two terms/1.5 hours per lecture-seminar. Three term hours; fall. R.D. Montgomerie.

The main focus of this course will be to review and assess the many techniques currently available to track long-term environmental change. An emphasis will be placed on biological approaches dealing with sedimentary analyses, but other proxy methods (e.g. ice cores, bore holes, etc.) will also be covered. General topics to be covered will include climatic change, acidification, eutrophication, lake and reservoir management, UV penetration, etc. Three term hours; fall. Not offered 2010-2011.

This course will introduce intellectual and professional skills important for success in graduate school and in careers in Biology. Course structure and content is applicable to all fields of biology, from ecology and evolution to cell biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Sessions will span topics from study design and hypothesis testing, to communication skills, to career paths and mentoring. The final assignment will be a written research proposal, following the departmental guidelines for the PhD proposal. The goals of the course include 1) introducing graduate students to an array of skills and topics important to their success, 2) helping to develop a community among new graduate students, 3) improving students' communication skills, and 4) introducing graduate students to several Biology faculty who will lead some of the sessions. Students are required to attend a mandatory weekend at the Queen's University Biological Station, with a cost-recovery fee for accommodation and meals.

Each year brings new molecular tools and significant advances in analytical techniques for using molecular data to address evolutionary and ecological questions. This course is an exploration of these with emphases varying from year to year depending on the expertise of the instructor. Topics may span natural selection and phenotypic plasticity, parentage and mating systems, speciation, hybridization, macroevolution, and phylogenetics.Students gain a thorough theoretical grounding of pertinent topics via lectures, student seminars, and readings from the current primary literature. Hands-on analytical experience will be provided through student exercises using the latest software applications.Three term hours; fall or winter. Not offered 2010-2011.

Bioremediation is the use of organisms to alleviate environmental problems.  Topics will include the biology of the organisms involved and their bioremediation processes.  Plants act to absorb and concentrate heavy metals from soils whereas micro-organisms, invertebrates and plants degrade organic toxins and remove excess nutrients from soils, substrates and water.  The processes include extraction, absorption, concentration, and degradation of contaminants. Three term hours; Not offered 2010-2011.

Mechanisms of natural selection involving adaptive strategies for growth, survival and reproduction in plants and the consequences of this selection on the characteristics of plant populations and communities. Recent research topics and theoretical developments are stressed. Three term hours; fall. L.W. Aarssen.

The cell cycle, its major periodic events, the G0-G1 transition and the integration of growth and cell division will be the major foci. The course will consider the historical origins of the field as well as the modern integration of genetics, cell and molecular biology, with respect to the cell cycle. Material will be drawn mostly from literature during the previous calendar year. Three term hours; fall. Not offered 2010-2011.

This course provides an introduction to advanced statistical methods (multivate analysis, randomization methods, phylogenetic analysis) and experimental design for biologists. The emphasis is on problem solving and the use of microcomputers for data acquisition, management, analysis and publication. Three term hours; winter. C.G. Eckert.

A variety of quantitative techniques are now being used increasingly in the fields of community ecology, paleoecology and paleolimnology (e. g. linear and unimodal regression and calibration, direct and indirect multivariate ordination, quantitative reconstruction models, rate of change analysis and analysis of spatial and temporal data). This course will investigate these computational techniques and explore their applications in the above mentioned fields. This course assumes a working knowledge of classical statistics. Three term hours; winter; lectures.  Not offered 2010-2011.

This is a two-week field course designed to introduce graduate students to field research problems and methods in behavioural ecology, ethology, population and community ecology, and ecological genetics. The course consists of lectures, field research projects and data analysis. Fall/Winter/Spring/Summer.  C.G. Eckert, S. Lougheed, R.J. Robertson and Y. Wang.

Consideration will be given to environmental, legal, economic, political, sociological and biological aspects of current issues in the management of the Great Lakes. Models for managing nutrients, toxics and fisheries will be compared from a multidisciplinary viewpoint. Three term hours; fall.  Not offered 2010-2011.

Contributions of Darwinian evolutionary theory to the understanding of contemporary culture. Through seminars, essays, and group discussions, students explore ideas, research objectives, and recent discoveries in applying Darwinism to the interpretation of cultural products like art and literature, social-cultural institutions like religion and marketing, societal problems like war and environmental conservation, and emerging designs for new models of sustainable civilization in the 21st century.

Key issues in conservation biology will be explored in seminars and discussions. Topics will include: minimum viable populations, habitat configuration and sustainable populations, biodiversity, habitat fragmentation, edge effects, keystone species, meta-populations, restoration ecology, endangered species, inbreeding, heterozygosity and fitness, genetics of captive breeding, population genetics and conservation. Three term hours; winter.V.L. Friesen.

An overview of aquatic toxicology. Topics include pharmacokinetics; mechanisms of toxicity; factors modifying exposure and effects; ecological effects of toxicity; and methods of toxicity testing, bio-monitoring, risk assessment and risk management. The course includes lectures, student seminars and visiting speakers. Three term hours; fall. Not offered 2010-2011.

This course is for students at early stages of planning research and collecting data. Topics include experimental design, matching hypotheses with statistical analyses, parameter estimation and graphing. Analyses will be based on a normal error distribution implemented in the R statistical language. Lectures. (3 hrs) & tutorials (3 hrs); First 6 weeks of fall term. Enrolment may be limited. Course weight: 3.0 credit units. EXCLUSION: BIOL-843

This course is for students with introductory statistics/experimental design training and a working knowledge of the R statistical language, and will cover fitting linear models to continuous data, model selection, diagnosis of key assumptions and data visualization. Lectures (3 hrs) & tutorials (3 hrs). Second 6 weeks of fall term. Enrolment may be limited. Course weight: 3.0 credit units. PREREQUISITES: BIOL-860 or equivalent.

Data analysis in Biology often involves counts, densities or proportions that require non-Normal analysis. This course introduce generalized linear models (GLMs) implemented using the R statistical language, including logistic regression, overdispersion and Poisson, quasi-likelihood, negative binomial and mamma models. Lectures (3 hrs) & tutorials (3 hrs). First 6 weeks of winter term. Enrolment may be limited. Course weight: 3.0 credit units

The course will focus on linear models that include random effects implemented using the R statistical language. Topics will include partitioning of random variance, nested, partially-nested and repeated measures experimental designs, and modem approaches to evaluating competing models. Lectures (3 hrs) & tutorials (3 hrs). First 6 weeks of winter term. Enrolment may be limited.Course weight: 3.0 credit units

A course in advanced statistical techniques for biological data. Possible topics include comparative methods, phylogenetic analysis, general additive models, nonlinear regression, network analysis, time series analysis, resampling, path analysis. Topics covered will depend upon student and faculty interests. Lectures & Tutorials (3hrs). Course weight: 3.0 credit units PREREQUISITE: BIOL-860 & BIOL-812 or equivalent

In this course we will explore advances in molecular biology and genetics with a historical perspective. We will read classical papers outlining major discoveries such as the molecular structure of nucleic acids, the genetic code, the genetic basis of inheritance, and others. Classical studies will be paired with modern studies that build upon these earlier findings. Modern studies will change each year depending on the interests of the students. A major goal of the course is to gain an appreciation for how creativity and carefully designed experiments drive innovation. Students should have foundational knowledge of molecular biology and genetics, as evidence by a BSc degree that included courses in these subjects.

Students will advise and train other students in biological investigations, normally over a two term period. Open to full-time students having completed two terms of study in Biology M.Sc. or Ph.D. programs. Activities include guidance on research proposals, research procedures, student presentations, and drafts of student work. This is a non-credit course, graded on a Pass/Fail basis. PREREQUISITE: Permission of Coordinator of Graduate Studies

Attending a diverse array of seminars is an essential component in the development of a student, especially in a department as diverse as biology.  The aim of this course is to develop skills in listening, synthesizing and critical thinking, as well as fostering the development of important oral and written communication skills.  Students will be required to attend at least 30 department or specialized research seminars, as well as present a seminar based upon their graduate thesis research.  Enrolment is extended over six terms and is limited to new graduate students in Biology. Y. Wang.

Selected topics in ecology, evolution and behaviour. An advanced course on current research in ecology, evolution and behaviour, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator. Three term hours; fall. A. Chippindale.

Selected topics in ecology, evolution and behaviour. An advanced course on current research in ecology, evolution and behaviour, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator. Three term hours; fall. A. Chippindale.

Selected topics in plant sciences. An advanced course on current research in plant science, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator.Three term hours; T.B.A. P. Grogan.

Selected topics in plant sciences. An advanced course on current research in plant science, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator. Three term hours; T.B.A. P. Grogan.

Selected topics in molecular biology. An advanced course on current research in molecular biology, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator. Three term hours; fall. L. Seroude.

Selected topics in molecular biology. An advanced course on current research in molecular biology, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator. Three term hours; fall. L. Seroude.

Selected topics in animal physiology. An advanced course on current research in animal physiology, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator.  Three term hours; winter. Y. Wang.

Selected topics in animal physiology. An advanced course on current research in animal physiology, based on recent research literature. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator.  Three term hours; winter. Y. Wang.

Selected topics in environmental sciences. An advanced course on current research in environmental sciences. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator.

Selected topics in environmental sciences. An advanced course on current research in environmental sciences. For detailed information, consult the course coordinator.