95 undergraduate courses in the 2026–27 Undergraduate Calendar, and 27 graduate courses in the Fall 2026 Graduate Calendar.
Undergraduate
BIOL 110Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution0.50 units
A survey of organisms that inhabit a range of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (e.g., coral reefs, lakes, forests). Through a lens of evolution this course focuses on how life has adapted to physical conditions, interactions with neighbouring organisms, and the influence of flora and fauna on the world we inhabit. Evolutionary and ecological frameworks will be used to explore how organisms diversify and are considered distinct species. Laboratory activities include developing hypotheses, collecting and analyzing data, and determining how to best communicate results will be carried out.
Antirequisites
Not open to students enrolled in Faculty of Environment programs
An introduction to the concepts of cell biology with emphasis on (1) the structural organization of the cell and (2) the function of critical molecular processes that are characteristic of living organisms.
BIOL 150Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology0.50 units
This course provides students with an introduction to the basic principles of scientific reasoning, ecology, and evolution. Coverage includes hypothesis testing and the nature of scientific inquiry, basic population genetics, physiological ecology, life histories, dispersal, basic population and community ecology, macroevolution, systematics and classification, as well as functional morphology.
Antirequisites
Not completed nor concurrently enrolled in any of the following:
An introduction to the diversity of living organisms from simple prokaryotes to complex eukaryotes. Current ideas on classification and phylogeny will be compared with traditional schemes. Morphology, ecology, and economic uses of representative Phyla and Divisions will be discussed.
This course takes a systems approach to study the structure of the human body and its relationship to function. Structural features of organ systems will be explored through lectures and laboratory exercises.
A survey of the major dinosaur groups from the beginning of the Triassic through the end of the Cretaceous including aspects of evolution, behaviour, and general biology. The course will emphasize factors that resulted in mass extinction events, and impacts of continental drift and climate change on dinosaurs over time.
BIOL 220Introduction to Plant Structure and Function0.50 units
An introduction to plant diversity, and the anatomy and physiology of vascular plants. The course will include a description of major cell and tissue types, and their organization in roots, stems, and leaves. Topics such as the processes of water and ion uptake, photosynthesis, long distance transport, and growth regulation will also be covered in lectures and through laboratory experiments.
BIOL 225Plant Knowledge and Practices: Indigenous and Western Science Perspectives0.50 units
This course welcomes students and knowledge keepers together to explore the long-lasting relationships between plants and humans, how our histories entwine, and the importance of botanical familiarity in our lives. Both historical and contemporary connections to plants will be discussed including with an Indigenous context. Plant structures and life histories will be discussed as well as medicinal, textile, food, and other usages in modern contexts. Knowledge of plants will be shared from multiple sources to construct a fuller understanding of, and relation to, plants and their fundamental importance to human civilization.
A focus on the eukaryotic cell with an emphasis on its chemical and genetic makeup. Includes discussion on the plasma membrane, cytosol, cytoskeleton, nucleus, and other organelles. Key cell signaling pathways and how they regulate cell homeostasis will be introduced.
BIOL 235Foundations of Molecular Biology0.50 units
This course introduces fundamental approaches used to study the biomolecules that mediate cellular processes. Topics include the central dogma of molecular biology, the theoretical basis for molecular methods, scientific principles of hypothesis development, and experimental design in molecular biology research. The laboratory will cover essential experimental techniques for analyzing biomolecules (DNA, RNA, and protein).
Introduces major concepts in genetics, from DNA to its effects at the cellular, organismal, and population levels, and uses in biotechnology. Topics include Mendelian inheritance patterns, chromosomal mechanisms in mitosis and meiosis, mechanisms and effects of mutations, gene expression, natural selection, and methods of analysis. Students will learn the basics of using genetics data such as family trees, results of breeding experiments with model organisms, and DNA sequences. Tutorials cover some lecture content in more detail and provide additional opportunities to apply knowledge.
Introduction to the biology of bacterial and archaeal organisms. Topics include cell structure and function, methods of cultivation, genetics, phylogeny and taxonomy, and metabolic and genetic diversity.
BIOL 241Introduction to Applied Microbiology0.50 units
Introduction to microbial ecology, environmental microbiology, food microbiology, and medical microbiology explored through lectures and laboratory exercises. Topics in environmental microbiology include biogeochemical cycling and biological treatment of wastes and pollutants. Topics in medical microbiology include concepts of immunology and host-pathogen relationships.
This course provides students with an introduction to the breadth of the ecology discipline, including laboratory and field components. It covers hypothesis testing and the nature of scientific inquiry, organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels of ecology.
Prerequisites
Must have completed the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Antirequisites
Not completed nor concurrently enrolled in any of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
BIOL 266Introduction to Computational Biology0.50 units
This course provides an introduction to computational methods in biology, including exploration of bioinformatics databases and tools, analysis of protein and DNA sequences, and computer-aided modelling of biological systems. Labs will include practical experience applying computational tools to biological problems.
BIOL 273Principles of Human Physiology 10.50 units
The physiology of major organ systems of the human body. Topics include neurophysiology and peripheral nervous system, muscle, the cardiovascular system, the components of blood, respiratory system, and immune system. The combination of BIOL 273 and BIOL 373 covers all of the major topics of human physiology.
Introduction to a physical understanding of biological systems at macro and molecular scales. The course is intended for second-year science and engineering students and will cover a broad spectrum of topics in biophysics, as well as an introduction to neurobiology, nanotechnology, and biotechnology.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Students must be in level 2A
Enrolled in a Faculty of Engineering program or an Honours Science program
A hierarchical approach to biological structure with an emphasis on functional morphology. Starting with the cell, the fundamental unit of structure and function, the material progressively develops how cells organize to form tissues such as epithelium, connective tissue, and muscle. Emphasis on how these tissue building blocks co-operate to form the major organs and organ systems of the human body. The laboratory component includes preparation and staining of tissues for microscopy, and use of virtual tools for viewing high-resolution tissue scans.
The diversity of invertebrate animals will be explored in this class. Topics covered in lectures and laboratory will include reproduction, development, life history, feeding, locomotion, and behaviour.
Prerequisites
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
BIOL 312The Natural History of Aquatic Organisms0.50 units
This course will introduce students to the diversity of freshwater organisms and their habitats. Emphasis will be placed on sampling techniques, taxonomic identification, life histories, and adaptations to aquatic environments. The course will introduce students to the use of aquatic organisms in environmental impact and biodiversity assessments. Students must be prepared to work outdoors in potentially inclement weather.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
A study of plant physiological processes with an emphasis on the role of key metabolic pathways in plant growth and development. Topics such as photosynthesis, nitrogen assimilation, growth regulators, mineral nutrition, water relations, and stress physiology will be covered through lectures and laboratory experiments.
This course provides an introductory level survey of members of the Class Angiospermae, the largest group of plants, through lectures and laboratory sessions. Topics covered include the identification, nomenclature, taxonomy, and basic morphology of flowering plants, as well as a brief history of classification, pollination biology, and plant molecular systematics. Cultural importance of plant species will be discussed along with historic and contemporary uses of select native plants as food and medicine.
The functional organization of cells with particular reference to cell-cell interaction, the structure, function, and development of organelles and the biological roles of cellular membranes. Laboratory exercises apply techniques for isolation and analysis of cellular components.
This course will provide students with an understanding of the fundamental concepts of the vertebrate immune system. Topics will focus on the components of the immune system, innate and adaptive immunity, immune cell development, communication, and recognition of non-self leading to an immune response. Theory will be complemented with laboratory experiments applying immunological techniques.
Molecular biotechnology applies the principles of recombinant DNA technology (genetic engineering, gene cloning) to the development of commercial products. The methods of recombinant DNA technology, molecular diagnostic systems for detecting diseases, and transgenic organisms will be examined in lectures and tutorial sessions.
Food preservation, spoilage, poisoning and modern concepts in quality assurance programs are studied. The aim is to understand factors governing microbial changes in foods. Problem solving in the food industry is emphasized. Laboratory work will reflect current practices in quality control and testing.
Examples from terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and plant- and animal-associated environments, will be used to illustrate the activities and diversity of microorganisms in these habitats. The importance of the ecological roles of microbes to aspects of agriculture, geochemistry, human biology, and the biology of extreme environments will be considered. Laboratory work will apply current methods in environmental microbiology.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
BIOL 349Synthetic Biology Project Design0.50 units
Synthetic biology involves developing new approaches, based on engineering principles, for genetic engineering of biological systems. Students will prepare a comprehensive research proposal for a synthetic biology project of their own design, under the supervision of a faculty member. Attendance at a weekly journal club focused on synthetic biology will be mandatory.
This course provides an overview of the dynamic interactions among microbes, plants, animals, and their physical environment with emphasis on ecosystem structure and function. Topics explored through lectures and tutorial sessions include the hydrological cycle, biogeochemical cycling, ecological energetics, roles of population and community interactions, paleoecology, and current topics in ecosystem science.
Prerequisites
Complete 1 of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
Study of the structure and function of lake and stream ecosystems. The course emphasizes biological components and processes, but includes the origin and nature of lake and stream systems and the fundamentals of surface water chemistry and physics. Human influences, management options, and current issues will be examined with readings and project work.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Complete 1 of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Students will study the dynamics of interactions within and among species. The course explores key population and community topics such as population growth, predator-prey, competitive, and mutualistic interactions, ecological networks, food webs, species coexistence, community assembly, and ecological succession.
Prerequisites
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
An introduction to the basic theories, principles, and techniques of environmental toxicology. A comparative study of the effects of specific groups of toxicants and how they can affect molecular, cellular, and organismal processes will be explored in lectures and through laboratory experiments.
An overview of current aspects of the biology of human aging and the functional changes associated with both normal aging and pathological problems often present in the elderly. Biological theories of aging and normal age-related structural and physiological changes on all of the major body systems will be discussed. Extrinsic factors such as diet and exercise and their role on the aging process will be examined as well as various medical treatments.
An overview of the origin of life, how it evolved and diversified, modern principles of paleontology with particular emphasis on analytical tools to interpret ancient life forms. Patterns, processes of evolution, and paleoecology of key groups of microfossils, invertebrates, plants, vertebrates, and their trace fossils.
BIOL 361Biostatistics and Experimental Design0.50 units
An introduction to hypothesis testing and experimental design in biology. Topics will include exploratory data analysis, analysis of variance, categorical data analysis, correlation, linear regression, multiple linear regression, power analysis, and visualization tools. Statistical software will be used in computer laboratories to explore examples and applications.
This course covers bioinformatics methods with an emphasis on analysis of high-throughput "-omics" data. Topics include analysis of genome-scale gene and protein expression, construction of species and gene trees from molecular sequence data, and analysis of biological systems using bioinformatics tools. Practical experience with bioinformatics tools and datasets will be provided through computational laboratory exercises.
BIOL 370Comparative Animal Physiology: Environmental Aspects0.50 units
A comparative study of salt and water balance, circulation, respiratory systems, nitrogenous excretion, and mechanisms of energy acquisition and metabolism in animals. Adaptations to different environments will be emphasized.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
BIOL 371Comparative Animal Physiology: Evolutionary Themes0.50 units
A comparative study of neural, sensory, endocrine, digestive, and reproductive strategies across animal taxa. The emphasis will be on evolutionary themes at the organismal, cellular, and molecular levels.
BIOL 373Principles of Human Physiology 20.50 units
The physiology of major organ systems of the human body. Topics include the central nervous system, the sense organs, the digestive system, the endocrine system, the reproductive system, and the excretory system.
This course gives students background in neuronal signaling, ion channels, and methods in electrophysiological recording methods. The course requires completion of neuro-simulation laboratories, which provide an introduction to biophysical modelling to explain the functions of neural systems.
BIOL 382Computational Modelling of Cellular Systems0.50 units
An introduction to dynamic mathematical modelling of cellular processes. The emphasis is on using computational tools to investigate differential equation-based models. A variety of cellular phenomena are discussed, including ion pumps, membrane potentials, intercellular communication, genetic networks, regulation of metabolic pathways, and signal transduction.
This course examines the fundamental concepts of terrestrial ecosystems in tropical climates. The course has three sections: (1) biophysical aspects (climate, location, landforms, soil, vegetation), (2) tropical resource systems (forest- and agroecosystems) within the framework of conventional and sustainable resource extraction, and (3) current conservation issues. Case studies are presented.
Prerequisites
Complete 1 of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
BIOL 403Developmental Biology and Embryology0.50 units
This course explores the cellular and molecular basis of developmental phenomena in animals. Fundamental processes and concepts in embryonic development will be discussed including the acquisition of multicellularity, morphogenesis of tissues, major organ systems, fetal membranes, growth, differentiation, and analysis of common developmental defects. Lectures will emphasize the experimental basis for animal development with a focus on the major developmental systems in model organisms.
Through lectures and tutorials, this course will explore how parasites affect their host(s) and interact with other parasites. Attention will be given to eukaryotic parasites impacting human and domestic animal health. Public measures of parasite control will be covered with special attention to the importance of a One Health approach.
Bacterial molecular biology with an emphasis on the use of genetic tools to study the biology of microorganisms. Topics include mutagenesis, conjugation, recombination, gene regulation, plasmids, transposons, bacteriophage, and genomics.
Biotechnological approaches and their applications in plant genetic manipulation, transformation and cell culture for plant improvement, propagation, and biochemical production.
Recent advances in human molecular genetics will be examined with emphasis on how human disease-causing genes are mapped, identified, isolated, and characterized. Examples will draw from research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Huntington disease, cystic fibrosis, Alzheimer disease, cancer, vision defects, and other disorders.
BIOL 439Environmental and Natural Products Biochemistry0.50 units
This course deals with the functions, distribution, and environmental ramifications of natural compounds produced by plants and other biological systems. Natural products are those compounds usually described as secondary metabolites, i.e., those apparently non-essential products whose physiological and ecological functions are either obscure or are of peripheral importance to the organism. However, many of these non-essential products have profound competitive, economic, and pharmacological significance; and as research proceeds, their physiological roles within the parent organisms are becoming clearer. As well, this course has a strong emphasis on how environmental chemical and physical processes impact on living organisms and their biochemistry.
A survey of the recent advances in the vertebrate immune response; the cells and tissues of the lymphoid system; humoral and cell-mediated immunity; initiation and regulation of the immune response; the immune system and disease, emerging techniques used in immunology.
This course is the primary introduction to viruses, the role they play in our world, and their connection to health and disease. Students will have an in-depth exploration of virus structures, infection, and replication. Topics include the evolution and classification of viruses, laboratory methods in virology and use of viruses as tools in biotechnology. The laboratory component includes isolating viruses from environmental samples, plaque assay for quantification, animal cell culture use in virology, and screening to determine the presence of viral infections in animals.
Prerequisites
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
Biology of industrial micro-organisms: fermentation systems; fermentation raw materials; downstream processing; biomass production; food fermentations; production of industrial chemicals, food additives, enzymes, and other products by fermentation. This course includes practical examples in the laboratory.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
A medical microbiology course with an emphasis on the study of the bacteria involved in pathogenesis, their mode of infection, symptoms, and prevention of diseases. The laboratory will focus on identification of bacterial isolates and processes contributing to pathogenesis, such as antibiotic resistance.
Prerequisites
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
A study of the environmental impact of microorganisms. Aspects of pollution, waste treatment, biodegradation of environmental contaminants, and nutrient cycling will be examined. Tutorials emphasize critical analysis of primary literature.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
BIOL 448Microbial Physiology and Biochemistry0.50 units
A study of the physiology of microorganisms through lectures and laboratories. Provides biochemical- and molecular-level detail on the diverse structures and metabolic functions of bacterial, archaeal, and eukaryal cells. Aspects of microbial growth, nutrition, and metabolism are examined in the context of how microorganisms develop diverse solutions for meeting essential requirements for life.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
How the health of human populations is influenced by microbial communities. Aspects of the epidemiology of infectious diseases, factors influencing the emergence of microbial pathogens and antibiotic-resistant strains, means to control undesired microbial populations in habitats such as water, biodegradable materials, and food will be discussed. Approaches to the regulation and monitoring of microbial agents will also be examined.
Prerequisites
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
Ecological processes and evolutionary adaptation are explored in the world's largest and most diverse ecosystems. The major ocean habitats will be characterized, stressing their importance as resources, moderators of climate and reservoirs of biodiversity.
Students will read and analyze scientific papers to deepen their understanding of core topics in ecology and evolution and how they are related. These topics include the ecological niche, plasticity, competition, community ecology, and climate change. Topics are explored through in-class discussions, written reports, and oral presentations. Students will also improve their proficiency at understanding primary literature and identifying key elements such as research questions, hypotheses, experimental design, and main results.
BIOL 455Ecological Risk Assessment and Management0.50 units
Examination of the use of scientific information characterizing the risks posed to the environment by anthropogenic stresses. Discussions will take place in the context of aquatic ecology and presume a background of standard aquatic toxicology methods. Methods for assessing risks, including environmental impact assessment, risk quotients, national, and international risk assessment paradigms, and cumulative effects assessment will be examined. Critical connections between assessment and management will be discussed in lectures and tutorials.
The analysis of the structure and dynamics of plant and animal populations. Theoretical, mathematical, and experimental approaches to the study of population ecology will be discussed through lectures and tutorials.
A study of the organization, structure, and development of communities with emphasis on vegetation change. Topics include diversity, stability; succession; sampling procedures and multivariate analysis.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
The course addresses the integration of mathematical and statistical tools to solve problems in ecology, using examples from individual, population, community, and ecosystem scales. Coursework and computer laboratory exercises will explore the relationships between models, hypotheses, experiments, and data.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
Advanced aspects of statistics and experimental design for biologists. Topics will include analysis of variance (factorial, hierarchical and blocking designs; fixed- and random-effects models); a-priori and a-posteriori comparisons; multivariate analysis of variance; analysis of covariance; multiple linear regression; and multivariate statistics (indirect and direct gradient analysis).
Prerequisites
Must have completed the following:
BIOL361 - Biostatistics and Experimental Design (0.50)
Antirequisites
Not open to students enrolled in Faculty of Mathematics programs
Advanced concepts on wetland ecosystems in the context of regional and global earth systems processes such as carbon and nitrogen cycling and climate change, applications of wetland paleoecology, use of isotopes and other geochemical tools in wetland science, and wetland engineering in landscape rehabilitation and ecotechnology. Current issues in Canada and abroad will be examined.
Analysis of proteins using structural and bioinformatics approaches. Topics explored in lectures and labs include methods of protein structure determination and visualization, structure comparison and prediction, prediction of protein function and interactions, molecular dynamics, and protein design.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL266 - Introduction to Computational Biology (0.50)
An applied course on the computational exploration of genomes. Topics include comparative and evolutionary genomics, metagenomics, and genomics applications in health/medicine. The lab will involve analysis of genomic datasets using scripting and bioinformatic software.
An introduction to methods used to sample and characterize the ecological structure and function of aquatic ecosystems, including basic aspects of the abiotic environment. Field trips to lake and stream sites are combined with laboratory analysis of samples and data. While the main emphasis is on the techniques, the exercises also provide direct experience with some of the natural and anthropogenic variation observable in aquatic systems.
This course focuses on the nature and mechanisms of disease processes. Abnormalities in the structure and function of cells, tissues and organs that underlie disease are explored. Emphasis is placed on current research aimed at understanding the mechanisms of disease and disease therapy, covering topics including inherited disorders, cellular pathology and immunology, diabetes, and cancer.
This course will provide an in-depth coverage of reproductive biology in a range of mammalian species. Emphasis will be on the principles underlying the regulation of key reproductive processes, from the whole animal to the molecular level. Topics will include applications of these principles to human and veterinary medicine, and ethical problems posed by some reproductive technologies.
Students will explore and analyze a variety of often controversial topics in microbiology as reflected in popular culture and the current scientific literature. This course involves significant in-class group work. An essay and presentations are required.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL241 - Introduction to Applied Microbiology (0.50)
BIOL 476Systems Neuroscience: From Neurons to Behaviour0.50 units
Systems neuroscience attempts to explain complex functions of the nervous system in terms of underlying neural circuits. The course focuses on how neural circuits analyze sensory information, form perceptions, make decisions, and execute movements, as well as contribute to high-level mental functions such as language, memory, and self-awareness.
BIOL 477LTechniques in Animal Physiology0.50 units
Laboratory exercises and computer-based data collection to study the functions of the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, digestive, and excretory systems of vertebrates and invertebrate animals. Students will learn animal handling techniques, data collection with state of the art physiological equipment, and data analysis using computer software. Tutorials will allow students to investigate and discuss current animal physiology research topics in greater detail.
BIOL 479Population Genetics and Evolution0.50 units
This course provides an overview of the interplay among mutation, random and non-random mating, genetic drift, gene flow, and selection within and among natural populations. Special emphasis is placed on the dynamic role these factors play in the process of population divergence, and ultimately speciation. Case studies will illustrate the application of population genetic methodology in fields such as ecology, conservation biology, and forensic sciences.
A study of the techniques and applications of animal cell culture to biotechnology. Topics include basic cell culture technique, gene modification, products of animal cell culture, large-scale productions, and tissue engineering.
The role of classical genetic analysis in the context of today's genomic era. Topics discussed in lectures and labs include meiotic recombination, meiosis, complementation analysis, chromosome aberrations, and genetic interactions. Methods used in model eukaryotic genetic organisms such as forward and reverse genetic screens, genetic mosaics, conditional mutants, and genetic mapping will be discussed. Examples will illustrate how genes continue to be identified using classical-based approaches in a variety of biological processes, including cell cycle progression, cancer and metastasis, learning and memory, as well as pattern formation and embryonic development. Alternatives to traditional mutagenesis-based screens and the links between classical and molecular genetics will also be discussed.
An introduction to conservation biology and the ongoing biodiversity crisis. Topics will include the history of conservation biology and impacts on populations, communities, and ecosystems.
Introduction to modelling and analysis of neurophysiological systems. Models of synaptic plasticity and learning, with focus on the similarities and differences between neuroscience and deep learning.
This course explores the unique ecology of Arctic and sub-Arctic ecosystems. Topics addressed will include postglacial history, climate, permafrost, nutrient cycling, and food web structure of terrestrial, marine, and freshwater systems, plant and animal adaptations to cold, human ecology, traditional ecological knowledge, climate change, resource extraction, and other human impacts.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
A two-week field study of terrestrial, aquatic, and/or marine biology offered by the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). OUPFB offers a diverse array of courses annually that normally take place at off-campus locations. Field courses consist of lectures, field exercises, and a small project chosen in consultation with the course instructor(s). Contact the Department of Biology field course co-ordinator for additional information.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
A two-week field study of terrestrial, aquatic, and/or marine biology offered by the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). OUPFB offers a diverse array of courses annually that normally take place at off-campus locations. Field courses consist of lectures, field exercises, and a small project chosen in consultation with the course instructor(s). Contact the Department of Biology field course co-ordinator for additional information.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
A two-week field study of terrestrial, aquatic, and/or marine biology offered by the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). OUPFB offers a diverse array of courses annually that normally take place at off-campus locations. Field courses consist of lectures, field exercises, and a small project chosen in consultation with the course instructor(s). Contact the Department of Biology field course co-ordinator for additional information.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
A two-week field study of terrestrial, aquatic, and/or marine biology offered by the Ontario universities program in field biology (OUPFB). OUPFB offers a diverse array of courses annually that normally take place at off-campus locations. Field courses consist of lectures, field exercises, and a small project chosen in consultation with the course instructor(s). Contact the Department of Biology field course co-ordinator for additional information.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
A one-week field study of terrestrial, aquatic, and/or marine biology offered by the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). OUPFB offers a diverse array of courses annually that normally take place at off-campus locations. Field courses consist of lectures, field exercises, and a small project chosen in consultation with the course instructor(s). Contact the Department of Biology field course co-ordinator for additional information.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
A one-week field study of terrestrial, aquatic, and/or marine biology offered by the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). OUPFB offers a diverse array of courses annually that normally take place at off-campus locations. Field courses consist of lectures, field exercises, and a small project chosen in consultation with the course instructor(s). Contact the Department of Biology field course co-ordinator for additional information.
Prerequisites
Complete all of the following
Must have completed the following:
BIOL110 - Biodiversity, Biomes, and Evolution (0.50)
Must have completed at least 1 of the following:
BIOL150 - Organismal and Evolutionary Ecology (0.50)
The literature and methods of Fisheries Biology. Examination and discussion of selected topics of interest to the class. Emphasis will be primarily, but not exclusively on the ecology, habitats, and management issues related to temperature freshwater fish.
An advanced study of the physiological processes used by animals to respond to changes in environmental conditions. The study will focus on adaptation strategies used by animals to changes in temperature and other rate controlling environmental factors.
Advanced Aquatic Ecology provides opportunity for deeper study of new knowledge fronts and current issues in the field. Topics selection varies according to developments in the field and the interests of course participants, but is designed to provide broad coverage of the diversity of theoretical and methodological questions arising in modern aquatic ecology. The course is intended to be accessible to students with interests and background in ecology, environmental science, environmental engineering, or related fields.
Genetic aspects of the control of gene expression in bacteria and bacteriophages will be stressed. Recently published works will serve as the focal points for discussion. The specific content of any one set of topics to be analyzed in a particular term will be determined in consultation with the participants.
BIOL 610Advanced Topics in Evolution and Diversity0.50 units
A critical evaluation of selected research topics in evolution and the diversity of life and practical applications. Topics may include macroevolution, population genetics, evolution of behaviours, ecological evolution, phylogenetic reconstruction and/or phylogeny of the eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms.
BIOL 614Applied Bioinformatics and Genomics0.50 units
This course will cover current topics in bioinformatics and genomics, including genome assembly, annotation, sequence alignment, phylogentics, transcriptomics, and comparative genomics. Students will perform bioinformatics and computational analyses with an emphasis on topics relevant to their thesis work.
Discussion of current advances in selected topics in physiology of prokaryotic and/or eukaryotic microorganisms. Recently published research results will be the central points for the discussion. The topics might include but are not limited to microbiol growth behaviour under extreme conditions, microbial roles in the cycles of specific elements, processes of energy conservation, and properties and functions of key enzymes in microbial metabolic pathways.
The theory and practical application of microanalytical techniques often used in the biogeosciences will be explored. Particular attention will be given to microscopy, X-ray, and spectroscopy techniques. The use of these techniques in the study of microbe-mineral-fluid interactions, and the impact of these interactions on the broader environment, will be explored. Implementing a multi-analytical approach to investigate topics in the biogeosciences will be practiced through research design.
Discussion of literature relating to the cell cycle and cell differentiation. Topics may include: the cell cycle, DNA replication, mitosis, stem cells, cell proliferation and differentiation, cancer progression, epigenetics, chromatin remodeling, and extracellular matrix function. A strong undergraduate background in cell biology and molecular biology is required.
This course introduces statistical methods commonly used in ecology. Topics covered will include Experimental design, ANOVA, regression, general linear models, clustering, ordination, and some multivariate analyses of variance.
Antirequisites
Not completed nor concurrently enrolled in any of the following:
Community ecology seeks to understand the processes by which communities assemble and the key biotic and abiotic factors that influence their structure and function. This seminar covers diverse ecological theories relevant to communities, applying concepts of selection, drift, speciation, and dispersal through readings, discussion, and a term paper that tests a community ecology hypothesis.
Discussion of current advances in selected topics in immunology. The areas to be covered will include cell-mediated immunity, humoral immunity, comparative immunology, and other topics of current interest.
BIOL 645Recent Advances in Microbial Ecology0.50 units
Recent advances in selected topics of microbial ecology will be examined. Topics will be selected from soil, fresh water or other ecosystems with an important microbial component.
This course examines the use of stratigraphic records from lakes to reconstruct environmental change. Topics include sediment coring techniques, radiometric dating methods, analysis of physical, geochemical and biological indicators, and case studies demonstrating applications to address scientific and management questions. Practical experience is gained from a lake sediment coring field trip and subsequent laboratory analyses. *eligible for MES.
The ability to determine the three¿dimensional structure of a biomolecule and correlate that structure to molecular function is essential to understanding its role in Biology. In BIOL 650 we will explore the use of biophysical and structural approaches that can be used to establish the structure and function of protein-based biomolecules. The primary emphasis of the course will be upon establishing structure¿function relationships in enzymes. Upon completion of the course, students will have gained a practical understanding of the use and limitations of the tools of steady¿state enzyme kinetics and x¿ray crystallography.
BIOL 651Hydroecology for Freshwater Ecosystem Management0.50 units
This course examines the interaction in both space and time between hydrological processes and lacustrine environments. Applications to freshwater ecosystem management are explored.
Discussion of the major concepts in ecology, and current advances in selected topics. A broad overview of important ideas in population, community and ecosystem ecology will be provided, and following this, recently published research results on a subset of topics will become the central focus of the course. Topics might include but are not limited to: spatial-temporal dynamics of populations, meta- and hierarchical community structure, and species-specific influences on ecosystem function.
BIOL 678Current Topics in Neurophysiology0.50 units
Principles and applications for the study of membrane proteins in physiological processes will be covered, with particular emphasis on voltage-, receptop- and second messenger-operated channels. Discussions will focus on modern techniques employed in electrophysiology, pharmacology, imaging and biochemistry.
BIOL 680Specialized Studies of Selected Research Procedures, Strategies or Topics0.50 units
Critical evaluation and discussion of topics and procedures in biology that are not covered in existing graduate courses. The course must be specially arranged with a faculty member. Students may take only one BIOL 680 course for credit. (Offered to Master's students only.)
BIOL 681Specialized Studies of Selected Research Procedures, Strategies or Topics0.50 units
Critical evaluation and discussion of topics and procedures in biology that are not covered in existing courses. The course must be specially arranged with a faculty member. Students may take only one BIOL 681 course for credit. (Offered to PhD students only.)
The goal of the course is to introduce new graduate students in the Department of Biology to the skills that will be necessary for them to acquire and organize information, as well as to present/communicate that information effectively in both oral and written form. These skills will be developed through the preparation of a research proposal suitable for scholarship applications, a written reflection on a work from the non-scientific literature and a presentation relevant to the individual student’s thesis work. The use of peer review will also allow students to develop their analytical and critical appraisal skills.
BIOL 692Writing Scientific Papers in Ecology and Evolution0.50 units
This course covers best practices for writing clear, coherent, concise and compelling scientific papers in the field of ecology and evolution and provides hands-on experience implementing those best practices in a paper draft authored by the student. Students are expected to bring their own data, preliminary results and to write a paper draft around those.
BIOL 701Advances in Biochemical and Biomedical Sciences0.50 units
This course will be presented using a seminar-based approach, covering topics in the broad area of the Biochemical and Biomedical Sciences. In-class discussions, student presentations and written works will be based on the current peer-reviewed literature in the topic area and will foster critical analytical skills, while deepening the students’ understanding of major concepts and recent advances in the field. The specific focus and structure of each iteration will be determined by the faculty member serving as the instructor, based on their area of expertise and research interests. Topics to be covered in individual offerings may include: cancer; cell biology, cell cycle and cell death; model organisms; neurodegeneration; neuroscience; proteostasis.
BIOL 702Advances in Computational Biology0.50 units
This course will be presented using a seminar-based approach, covering topics in the broad area of Computational Biology. In-class discussions, student presentations and written works will be based on the current peer-reviewed literature in the topic area and will foster critical analytical skills, while deepening the students’ understanding of major concepts and recent advances in the field. The specific focus and structure of each iteration will be determined by the faculty member serving as the instructor, based on their area of expertise and research interests. Topics to be covered in individual offerings may include: bioinformatics, genomics, in silico modelling, mathematical modelling, phylogenetics, proteomics.
BIOL 703Advances in Ecology and Evolution0.50 units
This course will be presented using a seminar-based approach, covering topics in the broad area of Ecology and Evolution. In-class discussions, student presentations and written works will be based on the current peer-reviewed literature in the topic area and will foster critical analytical skills, while deepening the students’ understanding of major concepts and recent advances in the field. The specific focus and structure of each iteration will be determined by the faculty member serving as the instructor, based on their area of expertise and research interests. Topics to be covered in individual offerings may include: biomonitoring; conservation biology; community ecology; diversity; ecosystems; ecotoxicology; limnology; plant traits and ecology; population genetics; phylogeny; remediation, restoration and reclamation; taxonomy; wetland ecology.
This course will be presented using a seminar-based approach, covering topics in the broad area of Microbiology. In-class discussions, student presentations and written works will be based on the current peer-reviewed literature in the topic area and will foster critical analytical skills, while deepening the students’ understanding of major concepts and recent advances in the field. The specific focus and structure of each iteration will be determined by the faculty member serving as the instructor, based on their area of expertise and research interests. Topics to be covered in individual offerings may include: applied and environmental microbiology; evolution and phylogeny of microorganisms; microbial ecology, genetics, pathogenesis, physiology; public health microbiology.
BIOL 705Advances in Physiology and Cell Biology0.50 units
This course will be presented using a seminar-based approach, covering topics in the broad area of Physiology and Cell Biology. In-class discussions, student presentations and written works will be based on the current peer-reviewed literature in the topic area and will foster critical analytical skills, while deepening the students’ understanding of major concepts and recent advances in the field. The specific focus and structure of each iteration will be determined by the faculty member serving as the instructor, based on their area of expertise and research interests. Topics to be covered in individual offerings may include: cell biology, developmental biology, immunology, molecular biology, pathobiology, physiology, systems biology.